The focal point of the meeting was the application for a bulk variance on Engleside Avenue. James Raven represented Al Parado Entertainment LLC, detailing plans to reconstruct the existing staircase of the single-family home, which stands between the Surflight Theater and the Cast House. This reconstruction aims to provide a second means of ingress and egress. The planned modifications include extending the staircase to access the dwelling’s second story and renovating the front porch stairs. The renovations, which have already received approval from the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee (HPAC), also involve updating the siding to cedar shake.

The variance application was necessary due to the property’s existing building and impervious coverages, which exceed the allowed limits. The planned modifications would increase the building coverage from 81.4% to 81.5% and the impervious coverage from 98.1% to 98.3%, both of which surpass the permitted 75% and 60% thresholds, respectively. The additional staircase would add approximately 46.9 square feet to the property’s coverage metrics. Raven emphasized that these variances are minimal and crucial for ensuring safer access.

Expert testimony was provided by James Bzowski, a licensed professional engineer and planner, who described the property’s unique layout and existing non-conformities, such as the absence of off-street parking. He argued that the proposed improvements align with municipal land use law by enhancing safety and would not negatively impact neighboring properties. Architect Kevin Schwarzoff corroborated the safety benefits, noting that the new staircase would meet building code requirements for egress from the second floor, which houses four bedrooms. Schwarzoff also confirmed that the renovations aim to restore the property’s historical appearance, and fire safety would be improved.

In related discussions, Mr. Steiner, executive director of the Ocean Professional Theater Company, shared insights into the theater’s ongoing renovations and lease agreements. He revealed that $353,000 had been invested in residing buildings on Center Street and the theater itself, with the lease currently in its second of a seven-year term. Steiner noted that a house linked to the theater had been used for employee accommodations, including hosting a costume designer this year and previously a long-term tenant paying minimal rent. Board members expressed approval of these improvements, with one member calling the renovations a “tremendous improvement to Beach Haven.”

Inquiries arose during the meeting regarding the necessity of the application process for the minor increases in zoning ratios. Raven clarified that any existing conditions exceeding zoning limits require formal applications for any further increases. The meeting also featured a public comment period, though no members of the public were present to provide input.

The board also reviewed a separate application to amend conditions from a 2015 resolution. A letter requested the matter be adjourned to the next meeting on January 5, a request accepted without objection. When a board member questioned the frequency of revisiting old resolutions, Raven explained that applicants are entitled to seek relief from conditions of approval at any time, though it is less common after such a long period.

The board then approved two resolutions: one for a property on Belvore featuring a wraparound porch, and another for a property on North Bay Avenue, known as the “Jersey girl application.” A humorous moment occurred during the voting when a board member jokingly expressed a desire to oppose the application, prompting laughter.