01:03:42The most notable discussion revolved around signage regulations along Kinderkamack Road and Main Street. The mayor expressed concern about inconsistent enforcement of existing ordinances, which currently limit window signs to a height of two feet and a coverage of 20% of the window area. It was revealed that enforcement had been lax, resulting in some businesses exceeding these limits. There was a consensus among officials that while businesses need to advertise, the aesthetics of commercial properties could be compromised, affecting property values and the town’s curb appeal. The mayor suggested that the current regulations might be overly restrictive and proposed revisiting them to strike a balance between effective advertising and maintaining an attractive community appearance.

A specific incident involving a totem sign brought public attention to the need for consistent enforcement of signage rules. The mayor emphasized the importance of a standardized application of these rules across all commercial properties. Some businesses have reportedly approached or exceeded a 50% coverage threshold, with a few possibly reaching 80%. The mayor reiterated the necessity for fair regulations that are neither burdensome nor unfair to businesses or residents. He expressed optimism that any problematic aspects of the current ordinances could be addressed promptly, allowing necessary adjustments to reflect current realities.

01:33:10The board also discussed the practicalities of enforcement, given that the borough only has a part-time code enforcement officer. This led to suggestions for prioritizing more egregious violations and considering flexibility in enforcement over time. There was agreement to send a summary of the meeting’s discussions to relevant officials, including the code enforcement officer and the police department, highlighting key points without expecting them to review the entire meeting recording.

45:00In addition to signage, the board revisited discussions on ordinance changes regarding swimming pools and building coverage. A revised draft of the ordinance had been circulated before the meeting. Key changes included the exclusion of swimming pools and hot tubs from building coverage calculations and the addition of a diagram illustrating roof height regulations. The debate also touched on whether to include roof eaves in building area calculations, with some members advocating for their exclusion due to aesthetic benefits and minimal impact on water absorption.

43:52The meeting also featured discussions on a variance application for a property on Wayne Avenue. The application sought variances for building and lot coverage and a rear yard setback to accommodate a planned residential expansion. The board reviewed several conditions for the project, including relocating a property fence, designing a stormwater collection system, and using permeable pavers to reduce lot coverage. After examination and no public objections, the variance application was approved unanimously.

01:37:33Finally, the meeting addressed administrative matters, such as the submission of financial disclosure statements, the potential return to in-person meetings at Borough Hall, and the need to fill vacancies on the Land Use Board and Historic Commission. The mayor highlighted the importance of recruiting candidates with expertise in building design or architectural history for the Historic Commission.