The conversation about the zoning map update centered around the procedural steps required to initiate the project. Joe Vuch, the board planner, was tasked with drafting a proposal to present to the township committee. The board suggested that Joe document his proposal through an email, ensuring relevant members are copied and an estimate of costs is included, especially since the expenses might exceed what Joe normally handles. There was a consensus on the necessity of proceeding with the map update, particularly after drafting an ordinance that changed the nomenclature, which underscored the urgency of the task.

Several board members expressed a desire to see the zoning map completed within the current year, despite concerns about the prioritization of tasks and the time commitment required. It was estimated that the project would take more than a week but less than several months, considering the extensive email analysis needed to review various overlays and changes since 2016. The board prioritized this update, recognizing its significance in supporting future planning decisions and maintaining accurate records for the township.

In addition to the zoning map discussion, the meeting addressed the timeline and cost estimates for the mapping project, with hopes to see progress towards closure by 2026. However, the board acknowledged the challenge of managing multiple ongoing priorities. The need for effective task management was highlighted to ensure that the zoning map update does not fall by the wayside amid other issues.

Another topic was the annual report from the zoning board, which led to questions about whether the planning board would also produce a report. It was clarified that the planning board does not typically create an annual report, but there was a suggestion to produce a simple one-page summary highlighting the activities and ordinances affected by the zoning board. This summary could provide valuable insights into the applications processed and any consequential trends observed. The board considered aligning this summary with the completion of the master plan in 2023.

The board also discussed home-based businesses, noting that this topic had not been addressed in recent discussions. A consensus emerged that revisiting this issue could be beneficial, provided it aligns with the Municipal Land Use Law and does not conflict with existing laws. The board viewed this as an opportunity for the zoning board to report significant trends or issues observed, such as the number of setback applications processed, to both the governing body and the planning board.

Towards the end of the meeting, an update was requested regarding the American Water sewer plant upgrades. Progress was reported, with certain applications expected to be honored by October 2025. The board noted that specific developments are looking forward to this infrastructure improvement, and a sewer working group would convene again in early October to provide updates on any changes or developments.

Public hearings related to the New Jersey state development and redevelopment plan were also announced. Six public meetings are scheduled for the week of October 14, offering both in-person and virtual options. These meetings aim to gather community input on the draft plan and infrastructure needs assessment. Participants were encouraged to share information about these meetings to ensure broad awareness and engagement.

In other business, the board briefly discussed correspondence with Morris County regarding inter-town collaborations. There was uncertainty about whether a response had been sent back to the county concerning the collective interests of a group of towns. The need for clarification on the status of affordable housing submissions was raised.