November 10, 2011

Mr. Steck stated that they are increasing the impervious coverage to 68.2%, proposing the assembly area height as 51.4’and described the entire slope areas listed in his report. He continued by stating that the applicant also needs a parking variance because they are proposing 58 spaces and 123 are required. Mr. Steck stated that they are seeking relief for the retaining walls they are proposing because of the height limit and are also seeking variances for the proposed signage. Mr, Steck continued by stating all of the reasons why the Board should support and approve this application. He stated that all of the improvements are good for the neighborhood and that it is an inheritably beneficial use, Mr. Steck stated that there is no substantial detriment to the neighborhood. He said that it’s not unusual for schools to be in a residential zone because all schools in West Orange are situated in residential zones, Mr. Stock stated that the auditorium will not being used during classes and that it will only be used by the students as a classroom. He also stated that parents will only be there occasionally. Mr. Steck stated that it is a very large building on a sloping site and that the height is remote from surrounding houses because of this. He stated that the new circular driveway will eliminate the stacking of cars on Gregory Avenue and accommodate the students in a safe way. Mr. Steck justified the new signs stating that all of the signage is in the interior and there is only one sign on Gregory Avenue and one sign at the intersection of Gregory and Northfield Avenue. He stated that the sign changes are minor to the motoring, public and they are beneficial in notifying the public where the school is. Mr. Steck stated that the significant improvements will protect the neighborhood and most of the improvements are on the interior of the property, He said that the storm water will be adequately addressed and the lighting will be diminished. There were no questions for Mr. Steck from the Board. Mr. Keiler asked Mr. Steck about the variance for the tree removal on the slopes because he didn’t mention that. Mr, Steck stated that they are not disturbing the vegetation and this will be an improvement. Chairman Neuer clarified by stating that schools are listed as conditional uses in R-1, R-4, OB-1 and Ob-2 zones according to the ordinance. Chairman Neuer

egetation and this will be an improvement. Chairman Neuer clarified by stating that schools are listed as conditional uses in R-1, R-4, OB-1 and Ob-2 zones according to the ordinance. Chairman Neuer asked for clarification regarding the auditorium only being used by the students and not being used for major functions. There was some discussion amongst the Board and they felt that maybe it would be. Mr. Vena stated that they cannot consent to this and that parents might come into the auditorium. Chairman Neuer asked if the general public had any questions for Mr. Steck. Mario Portilla approached the podium and stated he lived at 3 Ardmore Road, He asked Mr. Steck what the current population was at the school and if it is over-crowded, Mr. Vena said that he can have the principal of the school answer those questions. Chairman Neuer stated that this is in Mr. Steck’s report. Mr. Steck stated that the population changes all the time but there are currently 260 students. He said that the application has been amended and they are proposing 325 students.