The Cardennis family, represented by Brian and Megan, presented their case for expanding their residence to accommodate their growing family. The proposed project included a two-story addition, a kitchen expansion, and additional bedrooms, all while maintaining architectural consistency with the neighborhood. However, the expansion would bring the building coverage to 36.85%, surpassing the borough’s 35% limit, and necessitating variances. The applicants emphasized that the current home configuration was inadequate for modern family living, citing the narrow lot as a constraint.

The board’s deliberations focused on the potential impact of the proposed changes on the community and the environment. Discussions touched on the architectural elements, parking adjustments, and the overall appearance of the expanded residence. The applicants proposed expanding the driveway to meet parking requirements, which would increase impervious surface coverage, thus triggering an additional variance. They assured the board that they would implement necessary measures to mitigate any adverse effects, including an expansion of the driveway to accommodate parking needs and the installation of a stormwater management system to handle increased runoff due to the new construction.

The board also reviewed the proposal for a new front porch, which aligns with borough ordinances allowing a six-foot encroachment into the front yard. The porch’s design is intended to enhance both the functional and aesthetic appeal of the home, contributing positively to the streetscape. The increased roof area will be managed by an underground stormwater chamber, designed to handle rainfall at a rate of three inches per hour, mitigating concerns about flooding or water damage.

In addressing concerns about the driveway expansion, the board discussed the use of permeable pavers as an environmentally friendly option to reduce the impervious surface area. While this solution was appreciated for its potential benefits, there were concerns about its performance in winter conditions and the risk of clogging over time. To address these issues, the board recommended the installation of a trench drain to manage stormwater effectively, especially at the interface between the driveway and the sidewalk.

Further discussions explored the calculations for lot and building coverage, taking into account various elements like yard amenities and the deck. The board confirmed that the deck would not be included in lot coverage calculations, while it would still count fully toward building coverage. This clarification helped streamline the variance approval process.

Ultimately, the board approved the Cardennis application, recognizing the family’s efforts to balance personal needs with community standards. The approval was contingent on the implementation of all recommended modifications and compliance with stormwater management requirements.

In addition to the Cardennis application, the meeting addressed other agenda items, including the memorialization of KCK Bagels’ application withdrawal and a proposal involving lot coverage and yard amenities. The board examined these issues with the same diligence.