A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the application for property on South Cedar Avenue, where the applicant sought a variance to move a lot line between two residential properties located in a business development zone. The proposal aimed to transfer a 50 by 75-foot section from the adjacent property owned by Susan Wallley to the applicant to enhance the usability of the residential lot. This transfer would create a more functional residential area for the applicant while reducing Wallley’s lot size.

The council deliberated on the peculiar layout of the properties, noting that the original business development zoning designation no longer aligned with the residential nature of the neighborhood. A council member pointed out the historical challenges of the property, which was earmarked for commercial use despite the adjacent area developing commercially. This non-conformance persisted even with the proposed subdivision, though it would make the lot more practical for residential use.

The council discussed the variances required, including setbacks and minimum lot area, under the business district’s regulations rather than residential area guidelines. The applicant’s representative expressed frustration over the numerous revisions necessary, attributing some delays to previous submission errors. The council considered accommodating these legal requirements by permitting adjustments to be recorded by deed rather than requiring a new site plan.

Further complexity arose from the need for variances related to accessory structures like a shed, which had been removed but still required a variance for any future installations due to the business development zone’s restrictions. The council members acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining a residential property under the current zoning parameters, highlighting the hardships faced by both the applicant and the neighboring property owner.

In a separate but related discussion, a council member familiar with Boulevard Avenue recounted the property’s history, questioning its construction in a BG zone in 2015. The member advocated for the property owner to have a usable backyard, emphasizing the need to clarify zoning lines and address the peculiar situation of lots appearing landlocked due to the business development zone designation.

A resident named Paul Bu, with over six decades in the area, raised concerns about the storm sewer on the property and the need for transparency regarding past approvals for construction. Paul emphasized the importance of practical decision-making over strict adherence to zoning regulations, advocating for the property owner’s ability to sell the land and urging consideration of existing utilities and access routes.

The council acknowledged the historical context and complexities surrounding easements and public rights of way, with a member explaining Boulevard Avenue’s extension to Route 73 to facilitate access. The absence of easements on the survey provided to the council was noted, and the importance of officially documenting them was emphasized.

The meeting also saw the approval of a use variance to expand residential use in the BD zone, following a motion to approve subdivision based on previous correspondence. This motion was unanimously approved by the council members present, signaling support for adapting zoning designations to better fit current community needs.

In other business, the council approved a resolution for Marissa Rapelli to open a secondhand boutique store on South Fellowship Road, granting a site plan waiver as no modifications were necessary. The council also postponed discussing PSEG and homeland security issues due to the absence of a key member.