Variance Approved for Increased Lot Coverage Amid Stormwater Concerns in Bernards Township
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting of the Bernards Zoning Board, the board approved a variance request allowing increased lot coverage for a residential property despite existing zoning limitations. The decision came after careful consideration of stormwater management plans and neighborhood compatibility. Additionally, the board addressed several other applications, including one for a major subdivision and another for a pool installation, each highlighting the ongoing challenges of balancing development with environmental and community standards.
The most notable discussion of the meeting revolved around a variance request to increase the lot coverage to 19.23%, exceeding the permitted 15%. The applicants proposed a stormwater management solution, including an infiltration device designed to hold and manage overflow on the property. Board members emphasized the importance of accommodating water management effectively, particularly given the increased coverage from the existing 16.21%. This focus on environmental responsibility was a primary concern throughout the deliberations, with the board ultimately voting unanimously in favor of the variance, citing improved water management benefits.
Another topic was the proposal for a major subdivision at 180-188 Mount Ary Road by CI Mount Ary LLC, which included requests for multiple variances. The applicant sought partial waivers from requirements like wetlands delineation and an environmental impact assessment, arguing that the subdivision would not involve new construction or land disturbance. The board deemed the application incomplete, requiring further submissions to satisfy completeness, but granted some partial waivers due to the lack of physical site changes.
The application for a pool installation on Colonial Drive by Andrew and Lindsay Hodkins was also discussed extensively. The board examined the unique constraints posed by the undersized lot, which classified the backyard as a front yard due to a driveway running behind the house. The proposed pool raised questions about impervious coverage and stormwater management, with the applicants outlining a plan to mitigate runoff through a dry well. The board members scrutinized aspects like the height of the planned fence for safety and the impact of paver stones on drainage, ultimately concluding without public comments.
Further, the board dealt with an application from Michael and Jasmine Vuvio for their property on Century Court, which highlighted issues with driveway setbacks and increased impervious coverage. Concerns about the accuracy of submitted plans prompted a decision to carry the application to the next meeting, allowing time for a more detailed review.
Additionally, a proposal was presented for a residential development requiring variances for lot width and area. The proposed driveway would increase impervious coverage, and discussions focused on ensuring the design’s alignment with neighborhood aesthetics and environmental considerations. The applicant committed to stormwater management requirements and addressed community concerns, receiving positive feedback for their detailed presentation.
Janice M. Fields
Zoning Board Officials:
Jeanmarie Genirs, David Tancredi, Beth Pochtar, Lisamarie Baumann, Anil Agrawal, Karl Kraus, Kippy Piedici, Elizabeth Silver, Steven K. Warner, Esq. (Board Attorney), Thomas J. Quinn PE, CME (Board Engineer), David L. Schley, AICP/PP (Board Planner), Cyndi Kiefer (Board Secretary)
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
03/04/2026
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Recording Published:
03/04/2026
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Duration:
168 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Somerset County
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Towns:
Bernards
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