The commission delved into an in-depth examination of the proposed security fencing for Temple Beth-El after hearing about incidents of vandalism and anti-Semitic threats. The importance of these measures was underscored by the congregation’s concerns for safety, which were backed by a Homeland Security grant aimed at enhancing the security of the synagogue. The proposed fencing consisted of black aluminum picket fences equipped with panic bars and a mesh around the gates to discourage tampering, designed to blend minimally with the historic landscape and architecture.

Furthermore, the commission engaged in a rigorous analysis of the technical aspects of the canopies. The architect of record, Joshua Zinder, and civil engineer, Kelly Uch, presented the plans, which included trench drains and a dry well designed to address the temple’s ongoing drainage issues. The design, which was approved by the Jersey City MUA and found to be in alignment with the city’s stormwater control ordinance goals, aimed to mitigate damage like that suffered during Superstorm Ida in 2021. The commission discussed the canopies’ capacity to handle a 100-year storm event and queried the aesthetic and practical implications of their construction, including the materials used and the potential visual impact on the historic building.

The commission’s scrutiny extended to a presentation by Stuart Portney, a representative of Temple Beth-El, who highlighted the need for enhanced security due to the institution’s visibility and risk of being a target. The discussion included details on a vulnerability risk assessment and the integration of the security measures with the building’s architectural and historical integrity. Scott Doyle, a historic preservation expert, assured that the new features were designed to avoid overshadowing or damaging the building’s significant architectural features.

Public comments reinforced the urgency of the proposed security and preservation measures. The speakers, including Temple Beth-El members and local residents, brought attention to safety concerns and the synagogue’s vulnerability to anti-Semitic attacks and natural hazards. They emphasized the importance of the temple to the community and the need to maintain the building for future generations.

The commission also debated the long-term impact of the proposed canopies and fences on the building’s historic character. There were concerns about the visual impact of the structures and discussions about alternative flood mitigation strategies. The commissioners weighed the necessity of these interventions against the potential harm to the historic fabric of the building.

After a thorough discussion, the commission voted to approve the security fencing application with conditions that included material revisions and color matching to the existing historic fence. However, they opted to carry the discussion on the canopies to a future date, permitting further collaboration between the applicant and the commission to address the concerns raised.