Borough of Chatham

This Open Space and Recreation Plan for the Borough of Chatham serves as a roadmap for preserving and enhancing community resources in southeast Morris County. Key strategic priorities include the protection of wetlands, the Passaic River corridor, steep slopes, groundwater recharge areas, and historically significant parcels. The plan also focuses on expanding recreational facilities and establishing a comprehensive system of greenways to connect parklands and buffer the Passaic River, aiming to maintain community character and improve residents' quality of life.

The meeting included proclamations for National Gun Violence Awareness Day and LGBTQ Pride Month. Discussions covered the Asian American and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month, littering concerns, and an update on the Fourth of July celebration. The council also addressed statistical updates on the coronavirus, relaxation of COVID-19 regulations, and the reopening of Chatham Borough Dunkin'. Additionally, the council discussed and voted on resolutions concerning the municipal budget, tax exemptions, and various financial and personnel matters. Ordinances were introduced for capital improvements, equipment repairs, and the prohibition of cannabis businesses.

The meeting included a public comment section where residents expressed concerns about the Affordable Housing Plan, overlay zoning in specific zones, traffic, environmental impact, and the use of a green wooded lot for apartment buildings. There was also a discussion about a tax-exempt property and its potential for generating tax revenue for the Borough. The Board also discussed the update of the Master Plan and reviewed ordinances related to land development regulations and sidewalks.

The Chatham Borough Planning Board held a special meeting to discuss the proposed 4th Round Housing Element. The plan includes the Borough's affordable housing obligation for 2025-2035, which is 181 units. The discussion covered the Borough's Unmet Need, Realistic Development Potential (RDP), and potential development sites, including 58 North Passaic Ave, 589 Main Street, and 311 Main Street. There were also concerns raised regarding traffic congestion, environmental impact, and the character of the neighborhood. The board also discussed the possibility of an Affordable Housing Overlay on the existing G-1 District and smaller-scale developments along Main Street.

The meeting included discussions and presentations on various topics, such as the Stanley Congregational Church donation to the Borough, recreational facilities survey results, and updates on the coronavirus situation. The council also addressed the new legislation legalizing cannabis in New Jersey and its potential impact on the Borough. Additionally, there were reports from council members, an administrator's report, and a consent agenda covering contracts, finance, appointments to boards and committees, personnel matters, law and public safety, and other resolutions. Ordinances related to capital improvements for the water utility and a stainless-steel dump truck body were introduced. The council also discussed and approved a resolution authorizing the execution of a third amendment to the lease agreement with AT&T and a consent order clarifying affordable housing requirements for the River Road Development.