The approval of Del Barton School’s application for a new Student Life Center on Mendham Road was a key focus of the meeting. The school sought both preliminary and final site plan approval and variance relief to proceed with the construction. The board, after thorough deliberation, granted the application with conditions, emphasizing the importance of compliance with dark sky lighting regulations to minimize light pollution. Additionally, the school was required to follow the township’s landscaping guidelines, specifically the do-not-plant list, and to install essential fire department infrastructure. These stipulations aim to ensure that the development integrates smoothly into the existing community framework and adheres to safety standards.

Besides Del Barton School’s proposal, a portion of the meeting was devoted to discussing residential zoning applications, including the Matthew and Amy Masterson project, which involved replacing an existing garage with a larger two-car garage. This project required variance approval due to setbacks not meeting existing zoning requirements. The board approved the Mastersons’ application with conditions, including the removal of a wood deck and shed on the property, and a prohibition on plumbing installations on the garage’s second floor.

Another noteworthy discussion revolved around a proposed construction project on Arbor Way, seeking variances for a second-story addition and the expansion of a non-conforming structure. The lot, located in the RA-15 zone, was slightly undersized according to current zoning requirements, a common challenge for properties developed under older zoning laws. The applicant’s representatives detailed the existing conditions and proposed improvements, highlighting efforts to modernize the dwelling without further encroaching on existing non-conforming setbacks. The board members engaged in discussions about the project’s compliance with zoning laws, ultimately approving the application after considering its potential benefits and minimal impact on the neighborhood.

In addition to these applications, the board addressed engineering considerations for a residential property seeking to maintain existing side yard setbacks while making improvements. The project included repaving and slightly expanding the driveway, aligning the existing patio with new additions, and installing a curb to manage stormwater runoff more effectively. The board waived a previous requirement for a drywell due to local drainage issues, instead directing runoff to existing street inlets.

The meeting also featured public comments, notably from residents concerned about stormwater management related to the new construction projects. The removal of the drywell from plans and the strategy to direct runoff to street inlets appeared to alleviate some resident concerns, contributing to the board’s unanimous decision to approve the application.

Concluding the meeting, the board reviewed a proposal to construct a front entrance portico and a dormer addition on a one-and-a-half-story home with a non-conforming lot size. This project sought to enhance the existing attic space by converting it into a bedroom, with the portico and dormer additions requiring variances due to setback issues. The board noted that similar additions existed in nearby homes. After considering the potential benefits of the project, the board approved the application unanimously.

Paul A. Woodford was confirmed as the chair, and Lee Goldberg as vice-chairperson. Professional appointments were finalized, including the designations of legal counsel, planning consultant, and various engineering roles. These decisions, while procedural, are essential to the board’s effective operation.