One notable issues was the review process for the newly released preliminary draft of the state development plan. The board noted that the State Planning Commission is mandated to update the plan every three years, although the last revision occurred in 2001. The plan’s recent 160-page draft has sparked concern among board members regarding its relevance and applicability.

The board acknowledged the need for a coordinated response to the state plan, which involves gathering feedback from municipalities and compiling it at the county level before submission to the state. The board discussed forming a committee to facilitate this review, emphasizing the importance of involving the township planner to ensure comprehensive understanding and strategic input.

Concurrently, the meeting addressed a minor site plan application concerning a new signage plan for a multi-tenant building. The proposal included replacing existing signs and installing a new sign closer to the building. The board scrutinized the dimensions, placement, and visibility of the proposed sign, with particular attention to compliance with local and county regulations. Concerns were raised about the sign’s proximity to the parking lot entrance and its potential to obstruct drivers’ views.

The signage discussion extended to the technical aspects of design and illumination. The board emphasized the importance of adhering to local regulations, particularly concerning the timing of sign lighting, which must be turned off 30 minutes after business hours. A representative from the applicant’s side presented options for lighting, preferring a power supply from a nearby light pole over solar-powered LEDs for reliability.

Another focal point was the size of the lettering on the proposed sign. Board members debated the legibility of the letters, with suggestions to increase their size to meet federal roadway signage standards. This conversation revealed the board’s intent to ensure the sign’s readability while maintaining aesthetic standards. The applicant was urged to engage a professional designer to review the signage dimensions.

As the meeting progressed, the board addressed an extension request for a minor subdivision on Dogwood Terrace and Carlton Road. After clarifying the applicant’s reasons for the extension, the board approved a 75-day retroactive extension following the expiration of the original filing period.

Additionally, the board received updates on other site plan applications that had been carried from previous meetings. One such application concerned a property on Valley Road, where the applicant had engaged Jamon Engineering to revise plans in response to board feedback.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of departing board members and commendations for local military personnel. The board expressed gratitude for the service of two outgoing members, noting their contributions to the completion of the Master Plan. A commendation was also extended to the New Jersey National Guard’s 44th Infantry Combat Battalion for their recent deployment.