The proposed 12,449 square foot synagogue is designed to address the needs of the expanding community, offering a modern facility with a basement, organized parking, improved stormwater management, and enhanced lighting. The board carefully considered the various aspects of the project, including variances for lot coverage, parking, and setbacks, and ultimately passed a positive resolution with conditions and restrictions.

The meeting began with a compelling plea from a board member of the Synagogue of Oakhurst, who highlighted the need for expansion to maintain community unity and religious practices. The testimony elaborated on the synagogue’s vital role within the community and its services, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity. There was a focus on the congregation’s growth and the desire to continue providing a space for faith and tradition.

This was followed by a presentation from a licensed engineer and planner, Jason Fiter, who provided an overview of the expansion. Fiter outlined the current state of the property, the challenges it presented, and the proposed improvements, including a new building with a sanctuary capable of seating 230 people and a mezzanine for an additional 174 seats.

The board’s approval required careful consideration of various technical aspects, such as stormwater management, utility connections, parking lot design, refuse enclosure, and lighting. The lighting plan aimed to ensure safety while minimizing light spillage into the neighborhood. Landscaping plans were revised to include a substantial increase in the number of proposed plants.

During the presentation, the board scrutinized the necessity of a variance for impervious coverage, as well as the proposed signage, which included a modest freestanding ID sign and additional facade signs to recognize project donors. The discussion also covered engineering considerations like drainage and the collection of roof runoff, with an emphasis on safety and security.

The issue of security lighting was also broached, reflecting current safety concerns. Other topics included the potential need for temporary structures, garbage pickup, and irrigation plans. The board inquired about the hours of operation and the presence of staff during the day.

The architect presented a detailed layout of the new building, emphasizing that the design would facilitate the congregation’s needs during religious services, especially on holidays. There was a discussion on the building’s maximum occupancy, the capacity of the kitchen for catering, and the safety of congregants walking or riding bicycles to the site.

The building’s design will incorporate indigenous materials like stone, synthetic wood, and stucco to provide a residential feel, with donor signs and a freestanding sign that complement the architecture. The height of the building will be 30 ft, which is within the limits for the area.

The board addressed the variances needed for the project, including lot area, buffer from parking to a residential zone, and setbacks. These variances were justified by the existing conditions and the proposed improvements. The discussions referenced previous resolutions and noted the proposed parking lot would improve the current situation.

The meeting also touched on federal laws protecting houses of worship and religious practices. The potential impact and inherent benefit of the proposed use as a house of worship were considered, including the prohibition of vehicular travel on the Sabbath and holidays.