August 7, 2019

Stephen L. Schoch, RA, Kitchen & Associates was sworn in, stated his professional credentials and was accepted by the Board to be an architect licensed in the State of New Jersey. Mr. Schoch gave a basic overview of the proposed project. He gave a brief description of Exhibits A-1 (Existing Conditions), and A-2 (Proposed Plan). He stated the oldest portion of the Library would be demolished; the existing Gaston Street parking lot would also be demolished. He indicated the main entrance to the building would be in approximately the same area as the existing entrance. He stated the building would be five stories consisting of 65 units that were 100% affordable housing; 61 one-bedroom units (685 square feet) and 4 two-bedroom units. The building would be fully compliant with all building codes and handicap accessibility requirements. Access points would be from Gaston Street and a new curb cut on Mount Pleasant Avenue. There would be no change to the circulation on the lower side of the site. He described proposed grading improvements and parking circulation. He described proposed building materials, and location of mechanical equipment. He stated all residential units would be handicapped adaptable. The upper floors would have laundry and trash rooms. The building would be fully fire suppressed; there would be on-site security cameras. He stated that overall, there would be 64,275 square feet of new construction; approximately 11,000 square feet of the existing Library structure would remain, of which 7,500 square feet would be for use by the public community. Mr. Schoch concluded his testimony. The Board questioned Mr. Schoch on his testimony. There was discussion regarding handicapped accessibility; fagade materials; HVAC system; utilities; sustainability elements including roof color to help offset heat island effect; cable and internet access; unit kitchens and bathrooms; parking; vehicle circulation; on-site property management; trash removal and dumpsters; roof materials; locations of building ingress and egress; building height; and the distance between the new building and existing senior building. The Board voiced concern about adequate handicapped parking and the number of total proposed parking spaces. Chairman Weston reiterated that the courtesy review for the proposed plan was governed by Section 31 of Municipal Land Use Law and must be comply

rking and the number of total proposed parking spaces. Chairman Weston reiterated that the courtesy review for the proposed plan was governed by Section 31 of Municipal Land Use Law and must be comply with the adopted Library Redevelopment Plan. Mr. Grygiel asked if there should be a designated drop off area for the senior bus shuttle; Mr. Schoch replied he did not see the need. The shuttle would be for a small population, there was sufficient room for drop off at the main entrance. In response to question from Mr. Hess, Mr. Schoch confirmed the total number of units was 65 - 64 affordable units, and 1 unit for the building superintendent. In response to question from Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Schoch confirmed there would be adequate room for the Senior Shuttle to drop-off/pick-up residents at the lower level. The Public Advocate had no questions for Mr. Schoch. The following members of the Public approached the lectern to question Mr. Schoch on his testimony: Robert Rashkes, 35 Oak Crest Road, West Orange There were no further questions for Mr. Schoch.