A substantial portion of the meeting focused on application 24-75, which proposed constructing a single-family home on Cambridge Road. The project was notable due to its requirement for multiple variances, including ones for minimum lot width, building height, and front yard setback, as well as for disturbing steep slopes exceeding 25%. The applicant’s civil engineer presented plans to minimize disturbance by positioning the house closer to the road, thus reducing the need for extensive grading. The design aimed to maintain minimal impact on the surrounding environment while accommodating the sloped terrain.

The board scrutinized the project’s details, especially the proposed modifications to the sanitary lateral line. A suggestion was made to relocate the line from the back corner of the house to the front, potentially shortening the pipe by 15 feet, which was supported by board members. This adjustment aimed to facilitate the connection despite the challenging slope. The engineer addressed concerns about excavation and stormwater management, assuring the board that the necessary adjustments would be made to comply with township ordinances.

Further deliberations centered around the architectural aspects of the proposed dwelling. The three-story structure was designed to integrate with the site’s topography, featuring a garage, foyer, living space, and multiple bedrooms. The inclusion of a full bathroom in the basement raised questions about the potential for the house to be converted into a multi-family dwelling. The architect clarified that the bathroom was intended for convenience rather than creating a separate living unit. The board discussed the implications of this design choice.

The board members expressed support for the project, appreciating its design and alignment with zoning regulations.

Another discussion involved application 2416 by Muhammad Z for a property on Seol Avenue, which sought a variance for constructing multiple additions, including a covered porch and relocating a detached garage. The application faced challenges due to stormwater management issues, as the property is located in a flood zone. The board expressed frustration over the lack of clarity regarding the engineering plans, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive stormwater management plan. The applicant agreed to submit revised architectural plans and consult with the township engineer to address these concerns before the next hearing.

In addition to these major applications, the board considered several requests related to air conditioning units and driveway expansions. Application 24-77, for example, involved installing a new air conditioning unit on Lawrence Road, with the board granting a variance for the newly installed unit. Similarly, the board approved application 24-72 from Julio Ortiz on Allentown Road, which sought to legalize existing air conditioning units.

Application 24-76, submitted by Mr. Grima on Brandon Lane, focused on legalizing driveway expansions and pillars. The board deliberated on the potential increase in stormwater runoff due to the driveway changes, ultimately approving the application with a stipulation that the pillars must not infringe upon the town right-of-way.