April 17, 2014

Mr. Keller said that he has concerns with four other trees on the lot surviving construction. He said that one of the trees is along the retaining wall and the tree should either be removed or they should re-work the wall. Mr. Chisvette said that they will address that. Mr. Neuer asked Mr. Keller if Mr. Linson mentions those trees in his report; he replied no. Mr. Neuer said that the applicant can replace the trees with whatever trees of their choice. Mr. Keller asked Mr. Chisvette to address item #10 in his report regarding the amount of fill material that is required for the grading; he replied 205 cubic yards of fill are needed. There were no further questions for Mr. Chisvette from the Board or its Professionals. Chairwoman Gabry asked if any members of the public had any questions for Mr. Chisvette; there were none. Mr. Drayton called his next witness. Margaret Petersen approached the podium and was sworn under oath. Ms, Petersen detailed her educational and professional background as a licensed architect in the State of New Jersey. Chairwoman Gabry accepted Ms, Petersen as an expert in Architecture. Ms. Petersen presented the first and second floor architectural plans. Chairwoman Gabry asked to have the two sheets of the first and second floor architectural plans marked as Exhibit A-2 for identification. Mr. Quentzel asked Ms. Petersen what the height of the basement will be; she replied 8’. Ms. Petersen said that the basement has windows but is not a walk out basement. Mr. Quentzel asked Ms. Petersen if the applicant has any plans to finish the basement; she said she does not think so. There were no further questions for Ms. Petersen from the Board of the Professionals. Chairwoman Gabry asked if any members of the public had any questions for Ms. Petersen; there were none. Mr. Drayton suramed up by stating that the relief is de minimus and that the hardship is duc to the lot being undersized which is an existing condition. He said that the applicant is proposing a modest 3000 sq. foot structure that will not do any harm to the zoning plan or ordinance. Mr. Drayton said that he is requesting the Board to approve this application. Chairwoman Gabry closed the hearing. Mr. Quentzel stated that this will be a great addition to the town and he will vote to approve.