The board’s decision to grant a two-year extension for MCC 7 LLC’s limited care facility arose from a request to extend preliminary and final major site plan approvals originally set to expire in December 2022. The facility, comprising 150 units of assisted living and memory care accommodations, faced economic challenges that impacted the developer’s ability to secure a suitable buyer. The extension allows the applicant to maintain zoning protections while requiring periodic status updates to the board. This decision was a compromise after considerable debate, with board members weighing the usual practice of granting one-year extensions against the applicant’s request for three years. Ultimately, the board unanimously agreed to the two-year extension, emphasizing the importance of maintaining oversight and communication with developers.

In addition to the extension discussion, the board considered several resolutions related to soil moving permits and site plan modifications. Application number 24-532, involving a major soil moving permit for Deodar Mahajan on Troy Road, was unanimously approved. Similarly, the board gave its nod to application 25-504 for CEO Andan on Puddingstone Road. Clarifications and numerical revisions were discussed for application 24-528 concerning B10 Hilton Court, with adjustments to building height and loading dock size noted before approval. Another application, 24-531 for PSP Saxon, was approved following corrections to the applicant’s address and application details.

The board also engaged with the redevelopment of a maintenance yard on a 49-acre lot associated with a substantial apartment complex. The applicant, Manor Associates, sought a minor site plan with a C variance to enhance the maintenance yard, which is seen as a componet for the upkeep of the 1,100-unit complex. The plan included revisions to the grading and landscaping around the maintenance area. The proposed changes would introduce new variances for building and impervious coverage, including a concrete pad and shed for equipment storage. Despite these increases, the board recognized the necessity of the yard for maintenance tasks like grass cutting and snow removal.

The board’s professional representatives and the applicant collaborated closely, with the applicant expressing satisfaction with the board’s feedback and a willingness to comply with conditions outlined in a February memorandum. The maintenance yard’s operation, including dumpster use and safety measures for hazardous materials storage, was thoroughly discussed. The applicant confirmed compliance with conditions, which led to board approval with only one abstention.

The meeting also delved into the redevelopment plan for a property on Lacana Avenue, identified as an area in need of redevelopment. The plan, presented by the township planner, proposed a mix of permitted uses, such as warehouses, offices, and logistics-related activities. It allowed up to 50% of warehouse space for craft distilleries, microbreweries, and studios, although associated restaurants were not permitted. The plan’s bulk requirements largely aligned with existing zoning, with notable changes including increased minimum lot size and buffer requirements, reduced maximum impervious coverage, and increased height allowances for specific uses. The board unanimously approved the redevelopment plan, finding it consistent with the master plan.