0:00The most notable discussion of the meeting revolved around the application from Alejandro and Kristen Gomez for their property on Bogert Road. The focus was on the proposed renovation of their single-family residence, which included plans for an addition, a new pool, and other enhancements. The application necessitated several variances due to building and lot coverage limits.

A key issue was the interpretation of building coverage concerning a future inground pool. Thomas J. Barrett, representing the Gomez family, explained that recent ordinance amendments had reclassified pools as structures, affecting building coverage calculations. Previously, pools were considered part of impervious coverage, not building coverage. The new interpretation meant that including the pool in the calculations would exceed the allowable building coverage percentage. Barrett argued that this change was an oversight and sought clarity on the ordinance to avoid conflicts for future applicants.

The board deliberated on this matter, discussing whether pools should be included in building or lot coverage. A proposal was made to potentially allow a building coverage of 19.52% for the Gomez application, rather than the previous 26%, to set a precedent. However, it was agreed that future applications would not automatically receive similar leniency. The zoning officer pointed out that the reclassification required careful interpretation under the current regulations, emphasizing the need for a possible ordinance revision to clarify these issues.

17:53The Gomez family, represented by architect Kevin Kenani, presented detailed renderings of the proposed renovations, highlighting design elements like gables and dormers, intended to improve both functionality and appearance. Kenani described the modifications as necessary to accommodate the family’s growing needs, noting that the existing house’s age and condition posed challenges such as water infiltration and small room sizes.

35:26Despite the complexities surrounding the pool coverage, the board unanimously approved the application, with conditions addressing stormwater management and soil movement permits. These conditions were deemed necessary due to the project’s impact on impervious coverage and the need for retaining walls.

1:11:51In other significant business, the board addressed a controversial fencing proposal from the Rosen Bam Yiva of North Jersey for their property on Kendri Kamac Road. The proposal included security enhancements around their school, with initial plans for a chain link fence. The board and members of the public expressed strong opposition to the chain link design, citing concerns over its aesthetics and potential for creating a “prison-like” appearance.

1:42:37After public comments and further board deliberations, a decision was reached to approve the fencing application on the condition that a decorative fence be installed instead. The board also stipulated that substantial landscaping, particularly evergreen trees or shrubs, should screen the fence from view. The landscaping guidelines were clarified to ensure effective year-round screening without ambiguity in implementation.