Martin K. Spence

The board meeting agenda focused on memorializing resolutions for specific property applications. This included variance relief for property encroachments at 3 Arrowhead Lane regarding setback requirements, and variance requests for Spring Holm 2, LLC at 23 Burning Hollow Road concerning driveway extensions into non-disturbance zones, retaining wall placement, and pool equipment setbacks.

The Planning Board held a special meeting to review various applications including the memorialization of resolutions for residential and commercial projects. Key discussion items included a site plan and soil relocation application for an affordable age-restricted housing development, a site plan waiver for a shopping center, and field change determinations for residential properties. The board also addressed procedural clarifications and approved amendments to site plan approvals concerning sanitary sewer connections and sales office logistics.

The 2025 Borough of Saddle River Housing Element and Fair Share Plan serves as a blueprint for fulfilling the Borough's affordable housing obligations. Key priorities include addressing obligations from First, Second, and Third Rounds, while comprehensively outlining the strategy for the Fourth Round (2025-2035). This involves fulfilling a 6-unit Realistic Development Potential (RDP) through a 42-unit 100% affordable housing development at 20-22 East Allendale Road, meeting a 6-unit rehabilitation obligation via a dedicated program, and allocating 32 units from the Choctau Trail site towards Fourth Round unmet need. The plan aims to ensure constitutional compliance and broaden the accessibility of affordable housing within the community.

The Board discussed a field change application for the Saddle River Day School regarding the regrading of an athletic field. The application was approved with conditions including the installation of emergency helipad marker lights and the construction of a landscaped safety berm. Additionally, the Board committed to filling voids in an existing hedge row along the frontage. A rezoning request for 155 Chestnut Ridge Road was presented but tabled for a future meeting due to the unavailability of key professionals required for questioning.

The commission reviewed a presentation by the Borough Arborist regarding a new tree planting guide and a recommended tree species list aimed at enhancing the community's aesthetic and meeting Tree City USA requirements. Discussions covered the prioritization of native species, the role of arborists in municipal guidance, and tree inventory strategies. The meeting addressed planning for the 250th Anniversary celebration, specifically regarding commemorative tree planting. Further topics included an overview of Tree City USA requirements, the implementation of a survey for trees along county roads, and the evaluation of roadside property conditions. Additionally, the commission discussed recent developments regarding the Saddle River Day School's applications before the Planning Board and initiatives for cataloging notable trees within the borough.