32:12The meeting’s most significant topic was an application from Powerhouse Signs LLC, representing Sketchers at the Jackson Mall, seeking a variance to allow four additional signs beyond the one currently permitted by township ordinance. The attorney representing Powerhouse Signs laid out the case, explaining that due to Sketchers’ challenging location near the mall’s entrances, the existing signage was inadequate for directing customers effectively. This deficiency led to the request for more signage.

Ryan Johnson, the owner of Powerhouse Signs, testified that Sketchers’ current sign, positioned above the entrance, lacked visibility from key angles, particularly at a nearby corner entrance. He argued that additional signs featuring the Sketchers logo and promotional branding would enhance visibility and attract customers from various vantage points across the parking lot. Johnson referenced an exhibit showing the proposed signage placements, emphasizing that higher elevation signs would improve overall visibility.

02:07:38Board members expressed concerns regarding the necessity of multiple signs, questioning whether a single replacement sign could suffice. In response, Johnson underscored the importance of maintaining brand recognition, with the performance sign promoting specific product lines. He argued that a single sign would not effectively address visibility issues, advocating for the proposed signage to ensure shoppers can locate the store from all directions.

55:32The board deliberated on the fairness of granting Sketchers the variance, noting that American Eagle, another tenant, had multiple signs. Concerns were raised about whether this approval could give Sketchers an unfair advantage. Johnson countered that the request was purely about visibility rather than competition, as he was unaware of direct competitors within the mall.

26:06While board members generally favored the application, they acknowledged the potential precedent it could set. One member highlighted Sketchers’ unique location and the mall’s layout as justifications for considering the variance.

The proposed signs would adhere to township ordinance standards regarding size and structural integrity, being internally illuminated for effectiveness in drawing customers. The board confirmed that mall management had approved the signage changes, and the application was evaluated on its own merits, independent of other tenants’ arrangements.

01:13:11Moving on, the board reviewed a substantial residential development project involving 500 units. Key considerations included parking requirements, stormwater management, and signage needs. The project team addressed the necessity of 1,529 parking spaces, proposing 1,611 spaces with adjustments for electric vehicle readiness. The team emphasized the importance of parking distribution, particularly with wetlands separating different project phases.

01:52:37Sidewalks were also a focal point, with the team agreeing to provide them along internal roads but proposing only one sidewalk along Linda’s Way due to the absence of units on the north side. Stormwater management discussions revolved around new green infrastructure rules, with the team requesting waivers for small, shallow basins that they argued should not be fenced to avoid creating an “attractive nuisance.”

01:27:12A board member raised safety concerns about the basins, particularly near residential units. The team proposed using low-level shrubbery as a natural barrier instead, acknowledging differing opinions on the matter.

The board also discussed the signage requirements for the development, which included two community monument signs exceeding local ordinance size limits. The planner supported the signs’ necessity for a development of this scale, noting their role in guiding residents and visitors.

02:11:19Traffic concerns were another major topic, focusing on a study related to the development’s phases. However, an intersection at Route 537 and Anderson Road was highlighted for its level of service F, prompting calls for exceeding minimum standards.