Grossman Reasons for Relief Documentrcd 3 23 2026

benefits of retaining long-term residents, improving property values, and modernizing a small home’s utility align directly with the MLUL’s purpose of promoting the general welfare. Furthermore, the proposal affirmatively improves the pre-existing lot coverage non-conformity, reducing it from 61.5% to 60.6%. Given the lack of any anticipated adverse effects, the demonstrable positive impacts, and the improvement to an existing non-conformity, the benefits clearly and substantially outweigh any potential detriment under the Sica balancing standard. With respect to the woodworking hobby use of the second floor, the structure has been specifically designed to minimize any impact on neighboring properties. The roof assembly incorporates Rockwool R38 batt insulation (approximately 10” thick) and the first floor walls utilize Rockwool R23 batt insulation (5.5” in 2x6 stud bays). Rockwool is selected for its industry-recognized acoustic dampening properties, which are superior to fiberglass insulation of equivalent R-value. This insulation strategy, combined with the fully enclosed nature of the structure, ensures that noise from power tools and machinery will be effectively contained within the building and will not constitute a nuisance to adjacent properties. As stated above, I have been conducting this work since 2018 in a structure with less insulation and sealing with no complaints from neighbors. There will be no discharge of fumes to the exterior of the building. I have strong personal and professional ties to this community, having been raised in West Orange and dedicating my professional career to educating its youth at WOHS. My service on the Historic Preservation Commission further reflects my commitment to the town. My deep roots here motivate me to create a functional home that will support my family’s growth and well-being in the town I hold in high regard.