Montclair Town Council Faces Heated Debate Over Interim Attorney Appointment and Environmental Initiatives

Overview: The Montclair Town Council meeting on April 22, 2025, was dominated by discussions over the appointment of an interim attorney, the town’s development policies, and environmental initiatives. The council faced criticism for what some perceived as a lack of transparency in the attorney selection process, while also engaging in significant dialogue on sustainability and infrastructure topics.

Montclair Zoning Board Deliberates on ADU Variance for Aging Residents

Overview: The Montclair Town Zoning Board meeting saw debate over a variance request for an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on Union Street. The applicants, Aaron Kisel and Margaret Mensel, sought approval for a larger-than-permitted ADU to accommodate their elderly parents, citing personal needs for additional space and accessibility. The board deliberated on the implications of granting this variance, especially as it was the first ADU application reviewed under a relatively new ordinance designed to support aging in place.

Montclair Town Council Proposes Comprehensive Traffic Safety Overhaul Amidst Public Safety Concerns

Overview: The Montclair Town Council meeting on April 8th was marked by discussions on traffic safety, culminating in the introduction of a new ordinance aimed at enhancing street safety through a comprehensive “Complete Streets” policy. This policy, a result of extensive review and community collaboration, aims to address longstanding issues of traffic violence and pedestrian safety in the township. The meeting also covered various community initiatives and public concerns, ranging from environmental issues to local governance.

Montclair’s Historical Commission Grapples with New Lighting and Building Proposals

Overview: The Montclair Historic Preservation Commission meeting on March 20, 2025, focused on various development proposals, highlighting concerns about lighting design in historic districts, a building alteration on Lorraine Avenue, and the preservation of historic character amidst modern renovations. Key discussions centered around the impact of proposed changes on community aesthetics and safety, emphasizing the commission’s role in balancing progress with preservation.

Montclair Zoning Board Greenlights ADU Project Amidst Height and Setback Controversies

Overview: The Montclair Town Zoning Board’s recent meeting was marked by a series of discussions, with a primary focus on the approval of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on Union Street. This decision was reached despite concerns about variances related to height, size, and setback requirements. The board also tackled other contentious applications involving the conversion of office space to residential use and the construction of a new garage, reflecting ongoing challenges in balancing development with the town’s zoning ordinances and historical preservation guidelines.