The contractor, John Tufarelli of Triple A Contracting, sought variances and design waivers for the property, which included a driveway setback at zero feet where five feet was required, and similar issues with a rear yard patio and a wood deck. The patio was positioned at zero feet from the property line, diverging from the mandated three feet, and the deck was seven feet from the side yard line, instead of the necessary nine feet. Additionally, the landscape area was notably below the required ratio.

Tufarelli addressed the board, emphasizing the absence of complaints from neighbors about water management and presenting signatures from residents as evidence of community support. He proposed potential solutions to adjust impervious coverage, such as removing some of the front yard asphalt. The board considered the possibility of installing additional drainage systems to alleviate any concerns about water flow affecting neighboring properties.

The conversation underscored the importance of maintaining good neighbor relations and highlighted the absence of complaints over several years. The contractor assured the board of his readiness to collaborate in finding solutions that satisfied both zoning regulations and the needs of the homeowner. The board was inclined to approve the waiver, given the lack of opposition from neighbors.

Further into the meeting, the board discussed the implementation of a trench drain to manage water runoff, focusing on retaining water within the property boundaries and preventing it from affecting neighboring lots. The proposal included a trench drain around the backyard perimeter, with potential extension to the front yard, involving corrugated pipe and a recharge system capable of holding approximately 200 gallons of water.

Conditioning any approval on a review by the township engineer was suggested, which the board agreed upon, pending submission of detailed drawings. This approach was consistent with past practices, especially concerning driveways and their drainage impact. The board acknowledged the shared nature of the driveway and considered future implications, such as property line delineation to avoid disputes.

The meeting also addressed another application concerning a property on Grove Avenue. Property owner Anim Vacaro sought to legitimize a driveway, rear yard paver patio, and deck, which required a c variance. Contractor Daniel Sabba from Sabba Landscaping testified on behalf of Vacaro, explaining the situation and the miscommunication about local regulations that led to the variance request. He expressed willingness to work with the board to resolve impervious lot coverage and drainage issues, offering potential solutions.

Board members were particularly interested in the details of the improvements and adherence to township regulations. Sabba’s collaborative stance was well-received, and the board’s professional staff was expected to provide further input on necessary adjustments to comply with zoning laws.

Additionally, the board deliberated over a shed application on Cindy Street, where the applicant requested side yard and rear yard setback variances for a proposed shed expansion. The applicant described the need for extra storage and reassured the board of no commercial activities taking place in the shed. The board noted the unique lot shape and the applicant’s supportive neighbor, considering these factors in their decision.

Ultimately, the board voted unanimously to grant the variance, acknowledging the applicant’s need for increased storage due to family activities. The board advised on compliance with construction permits for the shed’s new dimensions.