The proposed creation of a BB Zone, incorporating several properties adjacent to the lake, Our Lady of Good Council church, and the former school, was a focal point. Concerns over environmental factors and the impact of dam removal on the lakes were key considerations. Specifics such as lot sizes, impervious coverage, and building height restrictions were discussed at length. The council debated the inclusion or exclusion of specific lots within the BB Zone and the implications of state legislation on auxiliary structures.

In addition to the BB Zone, the council also deliberated on establishing minimum lot sizes for the B District, which would define lot frontage requirements and impervious surface regulations. The need for clear definitions within the ordinance was a recurring topic, particularly concerning lot frontage. Disagreements and objections were notable, with council members expressing concerns over the zoning changes’ impact on properties and the implications of state legislation related to auxiliary structures.

The definition of impervious surfaces in the township’s zoning ordinances was also scrutinized, with the goal of achieving internal consistency. The council discussed whether generators, air conditioning units, and other HVAC equipment should be considered part of the building structure and how they should be regulated. A suggestion was made to include an acoustical barrier requirement for HVAC equipment in side yards, as well as a minimum setback distance from property lines. The council agreed to review and revise the definitions and regulations to resolve the concerns raised.

Further, the council examined proposed changes to the zoning ordinance concerning yard encroachments, permitted projections, lot area requirements, and impervious coverage. The potential impact on residents, the necessity of seeking variances, and the importance of the zoning board’s annual report in evaluating the ordinance’s effectiveness were discussed. The council demonstrated a willingness to adjust the proposed ordinance based on feedback and practical implications, and to address unintended consequences.

A proposed ordinance with numerous changes to front yards, rear yards, side yards, and building heights was discussed, including the introduction of an annual report and the potential creation of a new zoning map. There was confidence that the changes would not create non-conforming situations for existing oversized lots. Ongoing litigation related to zoning issues was acknowledged, and the use of Zoom for public comments was debated, with suggestions to maintain consistency with the planning board’s decisions. The topic of public comments over Zoom was slated for further discussion at the next meeting.