The board’s decision on the setback variance was preceded by a discussion that touched upon various concerns and considerations. While one board member questioned the lack of detail regarding the intended use of the addition and the materials for construction, another member supported the variance by highlighting the existing non-conformity and the minimal impact on the neighborhood. The zoning officer emphasized that the application was strictly for the side yard setback and not for other potential variances, helping to focus the discussion and facilitate the board’s approval.

In addition to the setback variance decision, the meeting also revolved around a proposal for the erection of a six-foot solid wood fence on Anderson Road, submitted by Anthony Travisano. The proposed fence aimed to mitigate road noise and the effects of increased truck traffic. The board engaged in a discussion over the fence’s height and material, as well as its compliance with front yard area regulations. The zoning codes permit only four-foot fences in front yards, not six-foot structures, raising concerns about setting an undesirable precedent. Further, a pre-existing eight-foot lattice fence on the property was scrutinized, with some members questioning its inclusion in the variance request. The board’s zoning officer raised the possibility that the lattice might legally qualify as a fence, leading to discussions about a site visit for better assessment and postponement of a final decision to a future meeting.

Another point of discussion during the meeting was the consideration of two variance applications involving residential property additions. The board scrutinized an application for variance number 3513, submitted by Anthony and Patricia Trevisano, which involved an eight-foot lattice structure in their front yard. The board members considered whether to conduct a site visit to view the structure before making a decision. The applicant was amenable to removing the lattice, and the board decided to carry the application to a subsequent meeting.

Mosha and Lisa Weiss submitted a separate variance application, number 3502, for a side yard addition to their home. The applicant’s representative, Katherine Kimp, explained the addition was meant for additional bedrooms and a family area. However, the board raised questions about the precision of the submitted plans and the lack of an engineer’s involvement. The applicant acknowledged the need for professional plans, and the board postponed the decision to allow for a more informed review at a later date.

The meeting also involved organizational matters, such as the reappointment of board members and officials. Lynne Bradley was appointed as chair, Greg Stafford-Smith as vice chair, Shira Parnes as secretary, and Robert Hudak as acting secretary for the 2024-2025 zoning year. Christel Rosal was welcomed as the newest board member, and there was an elevation of Sheldon Hofstein and Moshe Heiman as regular members of the Zoning Board of adjustment.

Furthermore, the board approved the withdrawal of an application for preliminary and final site plan approval with use variances for a property on Aldridge Road and another application for variance 3511 on Cedar Swamp Road. Administrative approval amending resolution number 22316 for Earl Investments LLC on property located Earl Way was granted. Additionally, the Asbury Park Press and the Star Ledger were designated as the official newspapers for the township, and a voucher payment to the recording secretary was approved.