PB-24-20 Turtle Back Zoo - Lemur Exhibit Block: 163 Lot: 1

. The Turtle Back Zoo is owned by the County of Essex. . Michael Piga, LLA, of Franch & Parrello, testified on behalf of the County. . Essex County seeks to make renovations to the existing Sealion Exhibit Area to house lemurs and tortoises so that these animals may move freely and interact with the surrounding environment. The Sealions will be removed from the exhibit and placed at other zoos. The proposal includes four visitor viewing areas with associated stainless steel netting system, educational signage, benches and trash receptacles while connecting to other existing active areas. . The Planning Board’s statutory duty pursuant to the Municipal Land Use Law N.J.S.A.40:55D-31 for an application of this type is for “review and recommendation” in conjunction with the West Orange Master Plan. The Township’s 2019 Master Plan Update provides an overview of changes to the Zoo and adjacent County facilities since 2010, as well as notes it continued increases in annual attendance. A concern was raised in the Master Plan Update about maintaining a balance between preservation and recreation in South Mountain Reservation. While acknowledging the benefits to West Orange of the County’s investment in this facility, the following is noted on page 61 of the December 2019 Master Plan Update: [T]here are concerns about the amount of development in the Reservation, and the transformation of formerly open areas into active recreation space and zoo facilities. The Township should continue to work with Essex County to allow for appropriate development without overwhelming what makes the South Mountain Reservation a special place.