The board discussed a significant trend where many properties initially designated for professional or mixed-use purposes are being converted back to residential buildings due to dwindling demand for office space. To address this, the board proposed that conversions from professional offices to residential use should not be considered a change of use, thus exempting them from needing to meet current bulk standards or seek board approval. The aim is to simplify the process for property owners, allowing them to bypass the lengthy and potentially costly zoning board procedures that would otherwise be required due to existing conditions such as non-conforming setbacks or excessive parking lots.

The decision also included a recommendation to adjust the related ordinance to clarify that conversions of mixed-use and professional office buildings to single or two-family residential use should not require board action. This adjustment is expected to encourage more property owners to pursue residential conversions, potentially increasing the availability of housing in the area without the procedural delays associated with zoning board hearings.

Another topic was the board’s progress on revisiting and fine-tuning the borough’s redevelopment plans and master plan. The board shared a timeline for reviewing various zoning ordinances and redevelopment plans concurrently, emphasizing the importance of adjusting zoning regulations as needed to align with the borough’s development goals. The initiative includes input from multiple groups, including historical, environmental, and recreational sectors, to ensure a review process. The board is aiming to complete its review by mid-November, after which it will proceed with further necessary updates.

Additionally, the board addressed proposed amendments concerning electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The updated ordinance specifies that EV charging infrastructure requirements apply only to new developments and not to existing gas stations or other exempt entities, aligning with statutory regulations. The board plans to finalize the language and forward the proposal to the council for review.