21:34The meeting’s most development was the in-depth discussion and subsequent approval of the drainage plan for the property on Hampshire Court. This application, a continuation from a previous meeting, addressed concerns related to water runoff and its potential impact on neighboring properties. The applicant’s engineer presented detailed exhibits AA1 and AA2, which outlined a comprehensive drainage and landscaping strategy designed to mitigate these issues. Central to this plan were three tanks, including two new 1,000-gallon tanks, meant to manage surface runoff effectively. These tanks, strategically positioned, were engineered to handle extreme weather conditions with calculations accounting for significant rainfall projections.

26:31The board’s inquiries focused on the system’s ability to prevent overflow and protect neighboring properties. The applicant assured that any overflow would follow the natural path of least resistance, directing water away from adjacent lands. This approach adhered to both county and state regulations. A board member expressed satisfaction with the adjustments, noting the applicant had worked closely with municipal engineers to achieve a satisfactory outcome. The installation of drywells and the tanks’ volume capacities were cited as key factors in meeting the community’s needs.

29:35The consensus among board members shifted favorably, recognizing the applicant’s responsiveness to initial concerns. The applicant’s representative emphasized their commitment to addressing both neighbor and board expectations, stating, “She’s done everything the neighbors asked. She’s done everything the board has asked.” No public objections were voiced during the comment period, and the board proceeded to deliberate on the merits of the application, ultimately approving the plan.

36:29Another notable agenda item was the re-approval of a front yard setback variance for a property on Henshaw Avenue. The applicants, Matthew and Michaela Studyer, sought to revive a previously approved plan for a second-floor addition to their home. This addition aimed to accommodate their growing family by creating an additional bedroom and attic storage space. The board confirmed that the request was identical to the original 2020 approval, with no changes to the house’s footprint. After a brief discussion and no public comments, the board granted the variance unanimously, allowing the Studyers to proceed with their plans.

38:11The meeting also addressed an application from the Atlantic Federal Credit Union for a minor site plan and use variance on Edison Place. The credit union sought to install a terminal in their existing space, currently used as a waiting area. This terminal was intended to facilitate member services, distinct from ATM or teller functions, and required only minor interior adjustments. The credit union’s representative assured the board that the change would not alter the building’s exterior or its fundamental use as administrative offices. The board acknowledged that the proposal constituted a minor deviation from existing operations, warranting the use variance under the zoning ordinance.

50:51The credit union representative highlighted that the terminal would improve member service by enabling account access locally, reducing the need for travel to full-service locations in East Orange or West Orange. The board’s inquiries confirmed that the terminal would not increase member influx or affect parking capacity, with the representative estimating a peak of no more than five customers daily.

01:00:40After considering detailed exhibits and testimonies, the board expressed support for the credit union’s application. A motion to approve the use variance and minor site plan was made and seconded, passing unanimously.