Old Tappan Planning Board Grapples with Venue’s Valet and Noise Issues
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Meeting Date:
06/12/2024
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Recording Published:
06/14/2024
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Duration:
28 Minutes
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Towns:
Old Tappan
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County:
Bergen County
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State:
New Jersey
- Meeting Overview:
At the recent Old Tappan Planning Board meeting, one notable issues revolved around the operations of a local business, specifically its valet service, parking logistics, and the noise impact from outdoor ceremonies. The board scrutinized the business’s current valet system and its potential disturbance to the neighborhood, while neighbors voiced their grievances regarding noise and disruptions from the venue’s outdoor gatherings.
The meeting commenced with a focus on the business’s valet service and parking arrangements. The board raised concerns about the operational aspects of the valet service, such as the distance the valets would need to traverse. This prompted questions about the safety and convenience for both valets and patrons. Additionally, the board requested a revised site plan from the business owner, which would include an additional pedestrian walkway as a measure to enhance safety and accessibility.
During the discourse about the business’s use of outdoor space for ceremonies, board members questioned the owner about the historical usage of the property for such events and whether alternative locations had been considered. The purpose of these inquiries was to address the community’s unease over the noise emanating from these outdoor celebrations. In response, the owner outlined the limitations on serving food and drink outdoors and attempted to assure the board and public of adherence to regulations.
Public commentary featured prominently in the meeting, with neighbors expressing their concerns about the quality of life being compromised due to noise from outdoor ceremonies. One neighbor specifically complained about the disturbances following weddings, such as outdoor gatherings that could lead to increased noise levels in the area. Furthermore, the public aired frustrations over unauthorized outdoor weddings, emphasizing the adverse effects on the neighborhood’s ambiance.
Another aspect that garnered attention was the proposition of designating a covered outdoor area as a smoking section to potentially reduce noise created by guests stepping outside. This proposal sparked debate among the board and residents, touching upon both the practicality and potential benefits of such a solution.
The concerns of nearby residents extended to instances of finding refuse, such as beer bottles, in their yards. Additionally, a resident highlighted a specific incident from three years ago to question the credibility of the venue owner’s management of noise disturbances. However, the board steered the conversation back to the present situation, emphasizing the importance of addressing current concerns based on the owner’s testimony.
Despite the various issues and suggestions presented, the board did not come to a conclusion at the meeting. Instead, they decided to continue the application and discussion until the August meeting, without the need for further notice to the public.
Thomas Gallagher
Planning Board Officials:
Christine Massaro, Thomas Jung, William Boyce, Charles Maggio, Nick Mamary, Michael Alessi, David Keil, Daniel Eller, Nicki Louloudis, Robert Scozzafava (Board Attorney), Thomas Skrable (Borough Engineer), John Szabo (Planner), Diane Frohlich (Land Use Secretary), Robert Regan (Board Attorney)
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
06/12/2024
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Recording Published:
06/14/2024
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Duration:
28 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Bergen County
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Towns:
Old Tappan
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