The meeting’s primary focus centered on the zoning board checklist, with council members expressing concerns that the current extensive list might deter applicants. One member remarked that the checklist’s length contributed to applicants ignoring it, resulting in incomplete submissions. The council discussed creating a more concise checklist specific to zoning matters, separating it from planning requirements. This idea gained traction among members, with a suggestion to revisit previous documents to draft a simpler, more efficient checklist.

The conversation also touched on the excessive number of copies required for submissions, which some members found burdensome. A member highlighted the discrepancy, noting other towns’ streamlined processes and suggesting a review to enhance efficiency. The importance of certain checklist items, like the need for property owner names within 200 feet, was emphasized as crucial for both boards. The discussion concluded with members agreeing to table it for the next meeting, providing time to review and propose amendments for a more user-friendly checklist that clearly delineates zoning from planning applications.

In another discussion, the council addressed a dispute regarding the construction of a curb. The township engineer and an unidentified party disagreed over responsibility for ensuring the curb met township standards. The engineer insisted the responsibility lay with the individual involved, who raised concerns about the curb being a mere skin coat rather than a proper structure. The applicant was described as uncooperative, prompting considerations of fines to enforce compliance. Additionally, the need for variances related to two accessory structures on the site was discussed, with only one permitted by code.

Updates on other zoning and construction matters were also provided. The council reported on the situation on Manhattan, where the zoning officer visited the site but lacked specifics on the outcome. Delays due to staffing shortages and holidays were noted, with a consensus that a detailed report from the zoning officer was necessary before the next meeting. The council also updated on the emergency exit at Apple Montasauri, where a chain across the exit was down. An email was sent to Apple Monasauri requesting the chain’s reinstatement, which was not part of the approved site plan but served as a deterrent to the public.

Further discussions included the approval of the 2025 annual report, which was unanimously accepted, and changes to the ZBA escrow and fee structure, leading to another resolution passed without dissent. The council also decided to extend the approval for live streaming and YouTube storage of zoning board meetings for 2026, with the option to revisit the resolution if necessary. Members agreed that live streaming had been beneficial, citing good viewership reports.

Toward the meeting’s conclusion, a member raised a question about obtaining updated contact information for all board members. Another member commended Les Hannah for nine years of service to the zoning board, receiving agreement and support from others present.