June 3, 2026 Planning Board Regular Meeting Minutes

of the potential eminent domain impacts. o Mr. Pehnke testified that: = These are exactly the improvements traffic engineers would recommend for this location. = Oval Road serves numerous residences, Pleasantdale Chateau, the Paddle Club, and other public traffic. = The project primarily addresses public roadway safety. 23

a Even relocating the Crestmont driveway is consistent with a public roadway improvement because the existing driveway intersects Eagle Rock Avenue at an unsafe angle. = If funding were available, a government agency would likely undertake these improvements independently. - Mr. Schkolnick summarized his opening statement, describing the proposal as a practical, well-engineered solution to a complex eminent domain situation. o Mr. Pehnke agreed and added: a The planning predates his involvement. m Previous engineers reached the same conclusions. = His independent professional opinion matched theirs. = He believes these improvements were incorporated into the settlement agreement because they represent the appropriate engineering solution. - Mr. Schkolnick asked whether, ideally, the public would fund these improvements. o Mr. Pehnke responded that: a Similar improvements often remain unfunded because they are relatively low priority. a The settlement agreement provided an opportunity for private funding to complete a project that benefits: - Township residents - Oval Road residents - Crestmont Country Club - People passing through Eagle Rock Avenue - Mr. Schkolnick corrected Mr. Pehnke's earlier reference to the applicant, clarifying that the proper entity is West Essex Highlands Inc., not LLC. Chairman Bagoff carried the application to the July 1, 2026 Planning Board meeting at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom, with no further public notice required. ADOPTED: q l2lze Planning Board Secretary 24