Karen Gilbert

The ordinance amends the code of the Township of Raritan to establish regulations on light trespass in residential areas, focusing on restrictions for spotlights and artificial lighting to prevent light extending beyond property lines or reflecting onto neighboring properties and public streets. It details regulations for motion-detector lights, hours of operation for outdoor lighting, and exceptions for landscape and flag lighting. The ordinance includes clauses addressing severability, inconsistencies with prior ordinances, and the effective date upon adoption and publication.

The Township Committee of the Township of Raritan discussed and amended the terms of the Township's "No Knock" list for residential properties. The ordinance establishes a "No Knock" list maintained by the Township Clerk's office, updated twice a year. Residents can register their address to indicate they do not want solicitors to approach their homes. Registered residents receive a "No Knock" notice to post. The list is provided to peddlers, solicitors, and the Police Department, and is available on the Township website.

The Housing Element and Fair Share Plan for Raritan Township focuses on addressing the housing needs of residents across all income levels, fulfilling affordable housing obligations, and promoting equitable, sustainable growth. Key goals include supporting diverse housing options, ensuring quality housing design, guiding new development into suitable areas, and maximizing efficient use of existing infrastructure. The plan outlines strategies for meeting the Township's present and prospective fair share for low- and moderate-income housing, promoting multigenerational family continuity, and ensuring consistency with the State Development and Redevelopment Plan.

The master plan aims to manage growth by limiting it to existing sewer plant capacity and address affordable housing regulations. It focuses on creating new land use categories and zoning classifications to permit transitional housing and affordable housing developments. The plan also emphasizes preserving farmland, protecting environmental resources, and improving water quality. Additionally, it includes a comprehensive circulation plan to enhance the township's highway network and promote alternative transportation options. The plan also incorporates a recycling element to efficiently manage and reuse recyclable materials.

The Raritan Township Planning Board meeting addressed several key items. A public hearing for Sia Group, on behalf of Electrify America, was carried to the November 9, 2022 meeting. A minor site plan approval for an expansion of Precious Gems Academy child care center was reviewed, focusing on parking requirements, site plan details, and the use of an auxiliary daycare space. Discussions included the number of students, staff-to-student ratios, and safety measures for children traversing between buildings. Questions were raised about signage, exterior building changes, and a previously parked trailer.