The most discussed topic was the proposal for a dog daycare and boarding facility occupying an 8,000 square foot space in a previously vacant shopping center. The facility is set to include an outdoor dog run area, fenced at eight feet high, requiring a variance for its height. The board examined the operational aspects, focusing on noise management, waste disposal, and environmental safety. The applicant assured the board of measures such as soundproofing walls, proper disposal methods for dog waste, and the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products.

The facility aims to provide daycare, grooming, and boarding services, operating between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., with dogs primarily remaining indoors outside these hours. The board was reassured by the commitment to maintaining a clean environment, with provisions for immediate waste cleanup and a comprehensive waste management system. The applicant emphasized that the facility would not only meet a community need but also potentially revitalize the shopping center by attracting foot traffic.

In addressing concerns about potential disturbances, the applicant noted that the daycare would be buffered from residential areas by at least 750 feet, thus minimizing any nuisance. They highlighted the facility’s alignment with the township’s master plan, which encourages the reactivation of vacant commercial spaces to boost community welfare.

Board members showed support for the project, noting its potential to invigorate the shopping center and meet the needs of local pet owners. The applicant’s detailed presentation and willingness to address environmental and operational concerns were pivotal in securing approval from the board.

Additionally, the board examined an application from Dron LLC for variances related to a mixed-use development on Long Hill Road. The proposed project involves extending an existing structure and constructing a pole barn. The applicant sought several variances, including a D6 variance for building height and a D5 variance for density. The project proposes a building height of 43.3 feet and a density of 5.24 units per acre, exceeding the permitted limits.

The discussion revealed that the development would include commercial office space and residential apartments, with plans to improve the property’s aesthetics and functionality. The applicant, Ron Saaks, expressed a desire to transform the existing building into a more appealing structure, stating a preference for enhancing the streetscape. The proposal included measures to reduce impervious coverage on the property, despite the overall coverage still exceeding zoning limits.

Concerns were raised regarding the impact of the building’s height on the streetscape and the surrounding area. The board requested comparative height measurements to ensure the proposed structure would not disrupt the visual landscape. Questions about parking and traffic flow were also addressed, with the applicant outlining plans for organized parking solutions and access routes to minimize congestion.

Despite the board’s concerns about the variances, some members acknowledged the potential benefits of the project, particularly the addition of residential units which could encourage property maintenance. The applicant was tasked with providing further details and justifications for the variances in future discussions.