The most substantial topic of the meeting was the approval of a use variance for Executive Snow Control LLC to establish a Contractor Yard and Flex Space on a site with a long-standing industrial history. The application included plans for maintaining existing structures and introducing new ones primarily for equipment storage. The board engaged in discussions about the suitability of the site, given its industrial character dating back to the 1950s, and the potential benefits of reducing impervious surfaces from 92% to 85%.

The applicant argued that the proposed use was more compatible with the site’s configuration than alternative B2 District uses, such as retail or office spaces, which would require significant demolition and reconstruction. Photographic evidence from 1956 and 1984 was presented to underscore the site’s continuous industrial use, supporting the argument for the variance. The presence of adjacent land owned by the applicant was highlighted as a strategic advantage.

Key safety and operational aspects were discussed, including the installation of a 10,000-gallon underground fuel tank to service company vehicles. The board examined the safety infrastructure, such as bollards and emergency shut-off systems, and discussed lighting requirements to ensure safe operation during low-light conditions. The applicant emphasized that the fuel tanks were strictly for private use, not public, aligning with safety precedents set by facilities like New Jersey Transit.

Parking requirements were another focal point, with the site needing 97 spaces but initially providing only 48. The board discussed categorizing the site under an “industrial flex space” designation, which would lower the parking ratio requirement, thus reducing the need for additional spaces. This approach was deemed feasible, considering the flexibility to expand parking if necessary without increasing impervious surfaces. The necessity for electric vehicle charging stations was also highlighted, in compliance with statutory requirements.

The board addressed landscaping and buffering, with the applicant seeking exceptions due to existing natural buffers. A proposal to enhance the chain-link fence with vinyl slats was approved to improve aesthetics.

Further deliberations involved the classification of variances into C1 and C2 categories, with several variances approved based on unique site conditions. The applicant’s representative argued that the variances aligned with zoning purposes, emphasizing minimal impact on surrounding land uses while advancing public welfare by revitalizing an industrial site.

The meeting concluded with unanimous board approval for the requested variances, subject to conditions discussed during the session. Board members expressed support for the applicant’s efforts to revitalize the site, recognizing its potential contributions to the township’s economic and aesthetic landscape. The resolution highlighted the importance of a structured approach for future applications to ensure clarity and compliance with zoning laws.