The meeting’s focal point revolved around the application by K2 Properties LLC, represented by Seth Broer, to construct a single-family house on the landlocked lot 33. Witnesses including Jim Lanetti, professional planner Nancy Jamino, and architect Quinn Dman were sworn in to provide detailed testimony regarding the property and its development challenges. The board scrutinized the proposal’s feasibility, particularly focusing on access issues due to the lot’s lack of street frontage. An access easement proposal was debated, with the applicant suggesting a 28-foot easement on the western side to connect to an approved street, as mandated by municipal land use law.

The board faced a complex decision, weighing the benefits of the proposed access easement against the potential drawbacks, such as the reduction of frontage for the adjacent lot 32. The zoning officer pointed out that lot 32 was already undersized, and the easement would further diminish its width, potentially affecting side setback relief. The discussion extended to the topic of flag lots, a prevalent feature in the neighborhood, though the township lacks a specific ordinance governing them. The absence of such an ordinance added another layer to the board’s considerations, as members and the zoning officer debated the practicality and implications of a flag lot subdivision for the property.

As the hearing progressed, several residents voiced their opposition to the development. John Gremi, Bill Morris, Paul Ross Milso, Monique Moore, and Ralph Travone presented a united front, expressing concerns about environmental disruption, declining property values, delinquency in tax payments, privacy infringements, and the justification for the requested variances. In light of the mounting resident opposition and the questions raised, the applicant opted to withdraw the application without prejudice, preserving the option to reapply at a later time. The board consented to this withdrawal, putting a halt to the development for the foreseeable future.

In a separate agenda item, the board unanimously approved an extension for RLS State of Newfield concerning their minor subdivision deed reporting. This decision, while procedural, ensured that the applicant would have additional time to fulfill the obligations initially agreed upon.

The meeting also touched on concerns from township engineers about landscaping around a septic system at Ocean Food and Fuel. Engineers advised against permitting the current landscaping, prompting the board to entertain the idea of revising it.

Towards the meeting’s end, the board addressed administrative matters, approving two resolutions with no objections. The board secretary raised an issue regarding missing components on the township website’s application pages, including the actual application form and the engineer’s checklist. A new statement was also added to applications, mandating applicants to acknowledge their responsibility for escrow payments regardless of the hearing outcome. These measures were met with board member approval.