Charles Bobal

The agenda for the regular meeting detailed several key actions, primarily focused on municipal ordinances and resolutions related to compliance with the Fair Housing Act. Discussions involved numerous ordinances (Ordinances #26-04 through #26-19) which proposed amendments to Chapter 228 "Zoning" to establish new districts (MSMXD, TH/AH, TH-3) and amend existing definitions, all in compliance with N.J.S.A. 52:27D-302 et seq. Several capital ordinances were listed, appropriating funds from various utility capital improvement funds for improvements. The agenda also included resolutions honoring the retirement of Donna Rossi, endorsing the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, and adopting an Affirmative Marketing Plan and a Fourth Round Affordable Housing Spending Plan. A consent agenda included authorizations for tax/utility overpayment refunds, lien redemptions, contract extensions, grant applications, and approval of the bill list.

The board meeting addressed several key applications and procedural matters. A resolution was adopted for Application #Z-25-19 regarding proposed construction of a patio and pergola requiring lot coverage and setback variances. The Old Business segment involved Application #Z-20-18 concerning proposed additions to an office/storage building for Professional Surgical Instruments and associated site improvements, which was continued. New Business included Application #Z-25-26 for a rear yard setback variance for an addition intended to create ground-level, handicapped-accessible living space due to a family hardship, which the board approved with numerous specified conditions. Discussions also centered on the complexities of Application #Z-20-18, including property lines, cross-access easements, ADA parking requirements for two separate buildings on adjacent lots, and the logistics of refuse collection truck access due to proposed parking reconfiguration.

The meeting included a significant reorganization session for 2026, where the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Recording Secretary, Attorney, Engineer, Conflict Attorney, and Conflict Engineer were nominated and elected. A primary focus of the meeting was the adoption of resolutions, including the Planning Board reorganization resolutions and a resolution adopting the Planning Board resolutions 10-17. Additionally, a resolution was adopted regarding Application #25-21 concerning 530 & 532 Riva, LLC, which involves property demolition and subdivision into two parcels. A Resolution of Appreciation was adopted to commend Charlie Heppel for his extensive service to the Planning Board from 1999 through December 2025, during which he served as secretary and vice chairman. The board also noted that the next scheduled meeting for January 28 was anticipated to be cancelled.

The meeting began with the call to order, pledge of allegiance, moment of silence, and roll call, followed by a statement of notice of publication. Key activities involved nominations for several officer positions, including Chairman, Vice Chair, Clerk, and CFO/Treasurer, with nominations for Executive Director and Accountant being tabled. Reports included information that the mall owner will present at a future meeting, and an update that the judge sided with property owners regarding the Edgeboro properties, requiring legal consultation. The agency addressed resolutions related to the 2026 Adopted Budget, appointments of agency officers, qualification of professionals, designation of the official bank, and awarding contracts to the Attorney and Auditor. Discussions also centered on looking at other properties around town and a request for maps from the Planning & Engineering Department.

The tentative agenda for the meeting includes the Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call. Under Minutes, the minutes from February 05, 2026, are scheduled for review. Under Resolutions, the board will consider Application #Z-25-26 by Mazzeo concerning a proposed rear yard setback approval for an addition in the R-2 zone. Old Business involves Application #Z-25-06 by East Brunswick Owner, LLC, requesting an extension of time for an approved senior housing facility, new food pantry, and maintenance building located in the R-2 Zone.