12:55The board revisited a previous initiative to simplify the application process, particularly for residential applications that do not involve complex use considerations. The proposal includes creating a unified application form that can be used for both the planning and zoning boards. This form would eventually be made available as a downloadable PDF, making it more accessible to applicants. The board discussed how this change could reduce the burden on applicants by allowing the borough’s professionals to deem applications administratively complete, subject to confirmation by the board chair. However, waivers would still require board approval.

The board is collaborating with Bill Houston, chair of the ordinance committee, along with other professionals, to incorporate best practices from different municipalities into the new process. The goal is to finalize these changes by mid-year, allowing for an ordinance to be completed by the end of the calendar year. This timeline aims to ensure that the board can focus more on substantial issues while making the application process less cumbersome and costly for applicants.

07:02Additionally, the board addressed an application for a variance related to the estate of Grace Miller. The application was deemed incomplete, with missing components such as floor plans and building elevations for a proposed garage. The applicant was advised to provide the necessary documentation by the specified deadline to ensure the application could be heard at the next meeting.