The proposed synagogue development plan was a focal point of the meeting, with extensive conversations about the site’s minor subdivision and site plan approval. The applicant sought variances for landscaping and buffer requirements, with several approvals from external agencies pending. The plan included the demolition of existing structures to construct one building with the synagogue at the front and the rabbi’s residence at the rear, along with other site improvements. The applicant also aimed to adjust lot lines to improve but not fully correct non-conformities concerning lot width and depth. Additionally, the applicant agreed to install sidewalks along the entire length of the two properties and comply with parking supply requirements after revisions to the plan.

Council members inquired about the accuracy of the submitted statement of operations, which detailed the synagogue’s service schedules and events, including religious education classes and post-service gatherings. They raised questions about the Sunday schedule and the potential cap on the building size related to parking criteria. Joel Tesser, a fact witness from the synagogue, testified about the number of congregants and activities on the site, while the council emphasized the need for clarity in the statement of operations to reflect incidental uses, such as Sunday school.

Eli Halper, a licensed professional engineer and planner, presented the site plan and subdivision, focusing on the proposed lot line adjustment and the construction status of Holden Court, a developing roadway. The council scrutinized the number of bedrooms in the rabbi’s residence to ensure that it would not be rented out or used as a dormitory. Concerns about parking spaces, crosswalks, and the new ordinance’s parking requirements were discussed, with Halper explaining the parking calculations and the applicant agreeing to add crosswalks.

Infrastructure and safety were another major theme, with residents expressing concerns about road safety and the impact of increased pedestrian traffic on outdated intersections. Harlen Drakes pointed out the risk posed by semi-trucks turning onto Anderson Road, where there is a bridge with a weight limit. Ed Bannon suggested that GPS routing might be contributing to the traffic issues. Concerns were also raised about inadequate pedestrian access, the absence of sidewalks at certain intersections despite allocated funds, and the need for more effective signage and maintenance to remove obstacles like fallen trees and twigs.

The council acknowledged these concerns and recommended that residents contact the county road department, the zoning officer, and the township engineer for resolution. Additionally, the council informed residents about upcoming meetings focused on different elements of the master plan, including circulation, utility service elements, and the economic development plan element.