Livingston Residents Debate New Construction and Zoning Variances Amid Neighborhood Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
The recent Livingston Town Zoning Board meeting covered several applications for variances and new constructions, highlighting local concerns over zoning regulations, neighborhood impact, and property aesthetics. Key discussions included proposed new homes on Manor Road, Browning Drive, and Forest Spalding Drive, as well as a contentious swimming pool installation on Norman Court. These issues prompted debates among board members, applicants, and the public.
03:23The most prominent topic involved the proposal for a single-family home on Manor Road by 14 Waterfall Drive LLC, which requested a variance for exceeding the allowable habitable floor area ratio. The applicant sought a 5.3% increase, arguing the unique lot shape necessitated the design. Architect Mr. Jose Carbayo defended the design as compatible with the neighborhood, emphasizing its adherence to other zoning regulations and aesthetic consistency with surrounding properties. Planner Mr. Nick Graviano supported the proposal, citing the advancement of municipal land use goals. The board approved the application with conditions, showing consensus on development challenges posed by the undersized lot.
17:17Similarly, the proposal for a property on Browning Drive sought multiple variances to expand the home, including a second garage and two-story addition. Homeowners Jesse and Dana Good described space constraints with their growing family, noting existing non-conformities. The board unanimously approved the application, highlighting a shared understanding of neighborhood dynamics and aesthetic improvements.
01:52:26The proposal for a property on Sparrow Drive involved a variance request for exceeding the habitable floor area ratio and a front yard setback adjustment. Public concern centered around the home’s size and necessity of variances. The applicant agreed to revise plans, eliminating the need for a front yard variance.
02:12:50A significant portion of the meeting addressed a swimming pool variance on Norman Court, where applicant Eddie Kimmelman requested a setback reduction. The board deliberated on the pool’s proximity to neighboring properties and potential impacts on sightlines and noise.
02:47:20The meeting also featured a detailed examination of the proposal by Alexis JGS LLC for a new home on Forest Spalding Drive. The applicant sought multiple variances for setbacks and habitable floor area ratio, citing neighborhood trends of redevelopment. Architect Robert Emmer Jr. emphasized the design’s alignment with neighborhood character, while the board scrutinized the necessity of each variance. A motion to approve was passed with conditions, including adjustments to eliminate a side yard variance.
47:34Other discussions involved appeals and interpretations of zoning regulations, particularly concerning what constitutes a basement.
Edward Meinhardt
Zoning Board Officials:
Edward Bier, Vineeta Khanna, Laurie Kahn, Kalpesh Kenia, Steven Horn, Mihir Shah, Sherri Marrache, Todd Sherman (Alternate Member 1), Hong Yuan (Alternate Member 2), Jackie Coombs-Hollis (Planning Administrator)
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/22/2025
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Recording Published:
04/23/2025
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Duration:
185 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Essex County
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Towns:
Livingston
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