September 5, 2018

DISCUSSION: Mark L. Fleder, Esq., Connell Foley LLP, legal counsel to Essex County, introduced the Courtesy Review applications as provided by statute. Mr. Fleder requested permission for both Applications to be heard together. Michael J. Piga, LLA, French & Parrello Associates PA, was sworn in, stated his credentials, and was accepted by the Board to be a New Jersey licensed professional in landscape architecture. Referring to Exhibit A-6, Mr. Piga described the current layout of Turtle Back Zoo; he noted the existing River Otter Exhibit was located at the center of the Zoo. The proposed project was essentially a rehabilitation of the exiting exhibit. Improvements would include expanding the existing pool, more viewing areas for visitors, additional landscaping, and new lighting. Referring to Exhibit A-8, Mr. Piga stated the current pool size would be doubled to 7,000 gallons of water, there would be new landscaping installed within the space and fencing would be installed to the rear of the exhibit, and an area for trainers to store their equipment. Referring to Exhibit A-10, Mr. Piga stated a seamless glass window would be installed to create additional public viewing of the otters. No existing trees would be removed and additional trees would be planted. Mr. Piga concluded his testimony. The Board questioned Mr. Piga on his testimony. Council President McCartney asked for clarification about the size of the pool and the landscaping. Mr. Piga stated the existing pool would increase from 2,000 gallons to 7,000 gallons. Additional landscaping would be added to the exhibit to give it a more rustic appearance. Captain Keigher stated he had visited the site and thought the exhibit would be an improvement to the Zoo. Mr. Trenk asked Mr. Piga to confirm the physical footprint of the exhibit would remain the same. Mr. Piga answered in the affirmative. Vice Chairman Weston asked if the impervious coverage would increase; had the Applicant considered installing pervious pavers for the site. Mr. Piga stated the project would pave over the existing asphalt; there would be no new impervious coverage; pervious pavers had not been considered for the project. Vice Chairman Weston asked for clarification regarding new lighting; Mr. Piga stated there would be no new exterior lighting; new LED lighting would be installed in the interior of the exhibit. Mr. Cardoza asked

an Weston asked for clarification regarding new lighting; Mr. Piga stated there would be no new exterior lighting; new LED lighting would be installed in the interior of the exhibit. Mr. Cardoza asked if the number of otters would increase; Mr. Piga answered in the negative. Mr. McPherson voiced concern regarding the on-site storm water management; Mr. Piga stated the issue had been addressed. The Public Advocate had no questions for Mr. Piga. The following members of the Public approached the podium to question Mr. Piga: Judy Rosenthal, Millburn, NJ Evelyn Coleman, West Orange, NJ 3