The proposal for expanding employee housing at Canoe Brook Country Club was a focal point, with discussions intensifying around the request for a D1 use variance. This variance would permit the expansion of housing in a zone traditionally designated for golf course operations. The application proposes to increase the dormitory capacity from nine to 27 residents. The club representatives emphasized the need for affordable and convenient housing for seasonal staff, particularly international workers who might not have personal transportation, highlighting the proximity to public transit options and the club’s plan to provide bicycles for staff mobility.

Residents voiced strong opposition, arguing that expanding the dormitory could disrupt the neighborhood’s character and increase traffic, particularly through the Wallace Road entrance. Concerns were also raised about the potential impact on property values and the precedent such a development could set. Residents like Barbara V. from Canberg Parkway stressed that the dormitory-style housing is unprecedented in Summit, fearing that it might lead to a more congested and less desirable neighborhood environment. Another resident, Paul Dean, questioned the compatibility of the proposal with the area’s zoning history, noting the previous designation as a single-family residential zone before its reclassification for golf course use.

Board members expressed skepticism about the project’s alignment with the city’s master plan, which aims to preserve residential neighborhood integrity. The master plan revisions, specifically designed to limit residential use in golf zones, were highlighted as a major consideration. The board contemplated the broader implications of approving a variance that could lead to increased density and traffic in the neighborhood, with some members advocating for a reduction in the proposed number of units and a reconsideration of the access points to mitigate potential disruptions.

The meeting also addressed logistical concerns raised by the community, such as the monitoring of traffic flow and the potential need for increased security if the number of on-site residents grows. The country club representatives assured that security measures, including a 24/7 security department, would be in place to enforce rules and manage traffic effectively. They also confirmed that deliveries would be directed to the main clubhouse, minimizing disturbance to nearby residents.

In addition to the primary focus on the country club’s proposal, the meeting covered other applications, including a request for modifications to a residential property on Oakridge. Residents Elizabeth Cully and architect David Rosen presented plans to adapt their home for new work-from-home needs, citing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on family dynamics. The proposal, which involves a modest addition to the home, sparked a discussion around compliance with zoning regulations, specifically regarding the floor area ratio and roof design.