October 25, 2023 Planning Board Special Meeting Minutes

MINUTES & RESOLUTIONS SWEARING IN ¢ The Township Professionals Mr. Paul Grygiel, Township Planner and Mr. John Hess were sworn in. APPLICATIONS PB-21-01/West Orange Plaza Block: 152.01; Lots: 1445 & 1445.05; Zone: P-C/R-5 235 Prospect Avenue Improvements to West Orange Plaza Shopping Center with addition of new buildings. OBJECTOR PROFESSIONAL PRESENTATION Mr. Steck gave testimony in the year 2000 on a prior application at the same site. The previous application in which Mr. Steck testified was filed to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The approval for that previous application was never constructed. The previous application had objectors and the objector was represented by another planner Mr. John McDonough who is now representing the applicant for the West Orange Plaza application. Based on Mr. Steck review there are two significant changes in the most recent application compare to the previous application. NO BOARD QUESTIONS TO THE OBJECTOR PROFESSIONAL QUESTIONS TO THE OBJECTOR Mr. Grygiel asked if any change has been proposed to the residential property. The applicant is not doing any physical improvements. PUBLIC QUESTION TO THE OBJECTOR Sally Malanga at Ridge Road asked if it is reasonable for the applicant to be required as a condition by the board to put a conservation easement. Mr. Steck said that it will need the consent from the applicant. BOARD PROFESSIONALS COMMENT The board has complied with pedestrian safety. The applicant has complied in regards landscaping. The ordinance was amended to allow drive thru in more settings in the township. Based on the township professionals they believed that what is proposed is a big improvement compare to what was proposed back in 2020. Mr. Hess said that in his opinion the signs are appropriate. PUBLIC COMMENT* Ron Weston at 42 Whitbay Drive commented that he strongly advocatess that the board approves the West Orange Plaza application.