26:35The meeting’s primary focus was on a minor subdivision application concerning property on North County Line Road, where the ShopRite Shopping Center stands. The proposal aimed to divide the 45-acre parcel into two lots: one containing the shopping center and another measuring approximately 13.5 acres, which would remain undeveloped. The application’s straightforward nature was underscored by the lack of variance requests, and assurances were given that the subdivision would comply with all bulk and design standards.

32:18Discussion of compliance included the establishment of cross-access easements between the new lots, which were not yet in place. The board emphasized the importance of pedestrian safety, particularly concerning sidewalks along Cook Road. In response, the applicant’s attorney assured that any future site plans for developing the new lot would incorporate pedestrian infrastructure improvements, in line with the town’s broader initiatives.

Historical resolutions from 1997, which addressed sidewalk and curb requirements for the shopping center, were referenced. It was suggested these existing solutions, which connected to the shopping center, could suffice for the time being, with potential future enhancements to pedestrian access along Cook Road.

The topic of wetlands was also broached, as the existing delineation from when the shopping center was built was now outdated. Plans to seek a letter of interpretation from the Department of Environmental Protection were mentioned, ensuring that wetlands would be excluded from any development plans, though ample upland space remained available for potential projects.

20:17While no formal development plans for the new lot were in place, the representatives showed interest in participating in state-announced affordable housing initiatives, promising to update the board with any progress. The board’s approval of the subdivision was unanimous, following a public comment period that saw no participation.

In parallel, the board expressed frustration over the delays in finalizing the township’s master plan. The subcommittee had completed its work, but state and township approvals remained pending, particularly concerning affordable housing components. The inability to proceed with public meetings due to waiting for state feedback was highlighted as an issue, with members noting that the township was required to submit information by June 1. Despite this deadline, there was no guarantee of a timely response, potentially delaying progress into July or August.

Concerns were raised about the lack of clear guidelines from the state and the possibility of additional information requests, which further complicated the process. An attorney for affordable housing was reportedly advocating for a resolution, emphasizing the importance of concluding the matter to prevent additional costs to the township.

17:44The meeting also addressed schedule adjustments, including the rescheduling of an application for Shalom to July 7 and Jackson 21 to August 18, with the May 5 meeting canceled due to a lack of applications. The uncertainty of the upcoming meeting on the 19th was noted, with the board opting to assess the situation administratively as the date approached.