Union Planning Board Greenlights Development Amid Community Concerns
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Meeting Date:
03/28/2024
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Recording Published:
03/28/2024
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Duration:
166 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Union (Union County)
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Union County Planning Board meeting, the board faced a packed agenda, with discussions on various applications, including the construction of a residential building for individuals with disabilities and a two-family house. Key decisions were made amidst public apprehension regarding the impact on neighborhoods, with the most issues revolving around the proposed residential property for individuals with disabilities and the removal of trees for another development project.
The proposed residential property, managed by Community Access Unlimited, aims to accommodate individuals with developmental disabilities. The organization outlined that residents would lead independent lives with minimal staff presence and vehicles. Licensed through the state of New Jersey, the organization is subject to annual inspections. Discussions ensued about the number of vehicles expected, potential incidents, staff qualifications, and the medical and behavioral needs of the residents. Despite these assurances, safety concerns were raised, particularly regarding the proximity to the Garden State Parkway exit and the possibility of residents wandering onto the road. Questions were also directed at the financial aspects of the project, such as the funding source and budget, as well as the selection process for residents and the potential impact on traffic and parking.
The board and public sought further clarification on the management and operation of the facility, the safety and well-being of its potential occupants, and its compatibility with the existing neighborhood. Residents voiced worries about privacy, the increase in traffic and garbage, and a potential decrease in property values. One community member inquired about the average residency turnover and the duration of residents’ stays.
Another notable application that drew considerable public attention was for the construction of a single-family four-bedroom two-story dwelling, which included plans for a six-foot high fence in the rear and a four-foot high fence in the front yard of the property. Concerns were raised about the removal of trees and the potential environmental impact. Questions about the height of the structure in relation to other homes in the neighborhood were also discussed, alongside the purpose of the proposed fencing and the need for clarification on plans for each property involved in the project.
Further discussions highlighted the impact of new developments on traffic, with concerns over the feasibility of having a single driveway for two separate properties and the safety of driveways on hilly terrain. The board considered the need for a traffic expert to address these issues. Additionally, the potential environmental impact, particularly regarding wetlands and wildlife relocation, was a topic of debate.
The meeting also covered an application for the 2023 Corporation, which sought approval for a hotel and cultivation facility. Concerns were raised regarding the parking arrangement and operational workflow, leading to approval with the condition that the applicant meet with the Union fire department. Another application by Creative Property Management for a community residence also garnered attention, with the board discussing details such as barrier-free ADA design and fire suppression systems. This application was also approved with a condition for a fire department meeting.
Manuel Figueiredo
Planning Board Officials:
James Bowser Jr., James Louis, James Johnston, Steven Le, Jean Perkins, Michael Cohan, Nataly Tamayo-Long, Alfred Miller, Jeffrey East, Joseph Frain, Acleema Denise Khan, Joseph Venezia (P.E.), Diana Rutledge (Clerk)
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Meeting Date:
03/28/2024
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Recording Published:
03/28/2024
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Duration:
166 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Union (Union County)
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