10:25The meeting opened with a detailed examination of the Renaissance at Oldbridge LLC application, which aimed to secure major preliminary and final site plan approval, alongside a C variance for parking modifications. The applicant proposed leasing part of the ground floor of an office building located on Highway 9 North. Although the building had been operational for over 25 years without parking issues, the conversion prompted the need for variance relief due to parking requirements. The board scrutinized the shared parking strategy, noting that the staggered peak hours of the various businesses at the site—such as a restaurant, Dunkin Donuts, and office spaces—would accommodate the proposed 2,600-square-foot office area without congestion.

16:51A analysis by experts confirmed that approximately 85 parking spaces were available, with peak demand only reaching 40 vehicles. This was well within the capacity, allaying concerns about competition for spaces with nearby retail outlets. The board discussed whether the project would require involvement from the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT), ultimately determining that the minimal increase in peak hour trips did not necessitate further DOT action. The board unanimously approved the C variance, acknowledging the sufficiency of shared parking and the application’s adherence to township regulations.

28:47Attention then shifted to the residential C variance application for a property on Highway 516. The applicant, Matthew Bradley, sought approval to demolish existing structures and build a one-story addition, expanding the home from two to three bedrooms. The board focused on the narrowness of the lot, 75 feet wide against the required 100 feet, which necessitated the variance request for a combined sideyard setback.

37:20Another focal point was the application for a fence and pergola on Gazania Drive, which required two C variances due to the positioning of structures in the front yard. The applicant proposed a six-foot solid fence and an eight-by-ten pergola, with discussions centering around safety, particularly visibility issues at the intersection. Board members advised the applicant to relocate the fence to improve drivers’ line-of-sight, resulting in the applicant agreeing to set the fence back by four feet. The board also required a letter of no interest from the Homeowners Association (HOA) to proceed. With these conditions in place, the variances were approved unanimously.

07:57In addition to these applications, the board swiftly adopted resolutions related to existing structures, including the upgrade of a static billboard to digital format and the granting of a certificate of nonconformity for a historical three-family home. These resolutions were passed unanimously, reflecting compliance with regulatory standards and historical precedents.