Ocean Zoning Board Examines Easement and Variance Challenges in Residential Developments
- Meeting Overview:
The Ocean Township Zoning Board meeting focused on several significant residential development issues, including easement complications, variance requests, and neighborhood concerns about the impact of new constructions. The board deliberated on applications involving undersized lots, drainage concerns, and the community’s evolving landscape.
A prominent topic of discussion was the application from Idon Kesh for new construction on an undersized lot on Amper Avenue, highlighting the complex issue of a pre-existing drainage easement. The property, affected by a drainage pipe running ten feet from the right property line, required an easement that restricted construction within a twenty-foot zone. This unforeseen complication necessitated a redesign of the house, originally approved to include a compliant pool. As construction was already underway, the applicant sought variance relief for the lot area, width, and depth, alongside new variances for the pool due to its proximity to dual front yard setbacks.
The board examined the drainage plan for the pool, addressing concerns raised by neighbors, such as Mrs. Lori Conley, about potential runoff into Idlewood Avenue. The applicant committed to directing any drainage towards the front of the house, avoiding the narrow street. Emphasizing the importance of the drainage easement, the board clarified that any private improvements over the easement, such as fences, could be removed by the township for maintenance purposes, with the homeowner responsible for reinstating them.
The board also explored whether the previous property owner had disclosed the easement’s existence during sale, recognizing its significance for current development plans. The applicant agreed to establish deed restrictions to ensure future compliance.
Another substantial agenda item involved a resident’s concerns about the neighborhood’s transformation due to large homes on small lots, affecting privacy and community dynamics. The resident criticized the trend of renting properties to unfamiliar tenants, claiming it diminished community cohesion. The board acknowledged these concerns but stressed their limited jurisdiction over neighborly conduct, focusing instead on zoning compliance.
In response to a particular application concerning a pool, the board considered allowing the applicant to modify the pool size to conform to zoning regulations, potentially eliminating the need for variances. The board underscored that while property owners have desires, such as pool installations, they must adhere to existing zoning limitations, emphasizing the importance of designing within property constraints.
The meeting also addressed applications from 197 Delaware LLC and Terry Sant. The board reviewed 197 Delaware LLC’s proposal to redevelop an undersized lot by constructing a conforming house with a new driveway to alleviate parking issues. The project included plans for an inground pool, patio, and pergola, all compliant with local ordinances, except for minor variances required due to the lot’s narrowness. The board discussed stormwater management plans and the impact of grading changes necessary for the driveway’s construction.
Terry Sant’s application sought variances for a front porch and garage conversion on Woodlock Avenue, primarily used as a summer residence. Concerns about emergency vehicle access due to street parking limitations prompted the board to suggest expanding the driveway. The architect confirmed understanding of this requirement, acknowledging the need to address potential parking issues affecting emergency services.
John P. Napolitani, Sr.
Zoning Board Officials:
Shawanda Beale, John Fuller, Gino Dellomo, Victor Ashkenazi, Anthony DeGennaro, Lisa Littman, Jason Chmura, Anthony Pugielli, Mark Leneski, Chris Caramanica, Claire Vilanova (Secretary), Colleen Mayer (Planning Administrator)
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
01/16/2025
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Recording Published:
01/17/2025
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Duration:
93 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Ocean (Monmouth County)
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