The meeting began with the discussion and subsequent approval of Ordinance 2687. This ordinance aims to amend the Development Regulation Zoning Ordinance to include a member of the Environmental Commission on the DRC. The township planner explained that this inclusion is intended to streamline application processes and ensure better compliance with the master plan’s recommendations. The planner assured the board that the proposed amendment would not conflict with the master plan. A resolution was prepared, and a motion was made and seconded, leading to a unanimous vote in favor of adopting the resolution.

Following the ordinance discussion, the board reviewed amendments to its bylaws. The amendments included maintaining records for pending applications at Town Hall during business hours and, where practicable, online. There was a brief debate about the potential preemption by state law concerning the appointment of the board attorney, concluding that adding limitations would contravene state regulations. The final amendment allowed for the formation of special committees, with the chair having the authority to appoint members, subject to a veto by the full board. These bylaw amendments were also unanimously approved.

One of the key applications discussed was Application 24003, submitted by the Center for Living Judaism, which sought preliminary and final site plan approval for a house of worship on Oak Short Hills Road. The chair provided an overview of the procedural regulations governing the application process, emphasizing the quasi-judicial nature of the proceedings. The applicant’s attorney introduced the application, detailing the compliance with conditional use standards and bulk requirements for the residential zoning district. No variances or design waivers were requested, which typically distinguishes such applications.

The civil engineer provided testimony on the site plans, describing the characteristics of the property and the proposed improvements, which included maintaining the existing driveways and preserving as many trees as possible to mitigate visual impacts. The engineer also addressed stormwater management, explaining that the project aims to retain stormwater on-site and release less than what currently flows off the property. The lighting plan was designed to prevent light spillage into neighboring properties, with all proposed lights being dark sky compliant.

The discussion also covered landscaping, noting that 63 trees would need to be removed due to drainage basin requirements, necessitating the replacement of 2,117 trees according to township ordinances. The applicant proposed planting 128 new trees and contributing to a tree fund to cover the shortfall. The board’s planner suggested revisions to maximize tree planting opportunities, and the applicant agreed to collaborate with township professionals to enhance the landscaping plan.

Concerns were raised about the potential encroachment of a right turn from Parsonage onto Short Hills Road, with the applicant committing to consulting with the county to determine whether an easement or dedication would be appropriate. The board also discussed the importance of compliance with New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection regulations regarding stormwater management.

Residents voiced several concerns during the public comment period, particularly about the impact of the development on neighboring properties. One resident expressed frustration at only recently learning of the development’s implications for their property, questioning the experience and qualifications of the civil engineer. Concerns about tree preservation, lighting, traffic management, and historical land use restrictions were also raised. The applicant’s representatives provided assurances that the proposed development complies with all relevant standards and regulations, emphasizing efforts to minimize impacts on the community.

The meeting concluded with an agreement to carry over the discussion of Application 24003 to the next scheduled meeting on November 6, to ensure all aspects of the proposal are thoroughly reviewed. The board emphasized the importance of public participation and maintaining transparency throughout the review process.