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24 ■ 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. ○ Mr. Pehnke agreed and added: ■ The planning predates his involvement. ■ 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. ○ Mr. Pehnke responded that: ■ Similar improvements often remain unfunded because they are relatively low priority. ■ 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: ___________________________________ Jamilet Baquerizo Vite Planning Board Secretary