October 27, 2016
MINUTES OF THE PLANNING BOARD MEETING Thursday October 27, 2016
Present: Chairman Tom Freeman Vice Chair Larry Lonergan Mayor Kevin Ryan Councilman Alex Roman Mr. Jim Kirby
Mr. Victor Lugo Ms. Jennifer Critchley Mr. Jim Helb, Township Engineer Mr. Greg Mascera, Planning Board Attorney Ashley Eagan, Planning Board Secretary
Meeting called to order at 7:43 P.M. Pledge of Allegiance: Acting Chairman Freeman reads Open Public Meetings Act Statement. Public Hearing: Re-Organization of the Planning Board: Acting Chairman Freeman stated that tonight is the Re-Organization of the Planning Board and they will make nominations for members and then there will be a vote. Mayor Ryan administered Oaths of Office in unison to the following members, as per Resolution 2016-116 passed by the Township of Verona Town Council on July 11, 2016 laying out the terms for the Planning Board Members: - Larry Lonergan- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2019 - Michael Foley- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2018 - Melissa Collins- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2018 - James Kirby- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2020 - Thomas Freeman- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2017 - Jennifer Critchley- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2017 - Alex Roman- Class III Member, Term ending June 30, 2017 - James Helb- Class II Member, Term ending June 30, 2017 - Victor Lugo- Alternate Member #1, Term ending June 30, 2018 - Al DeOld- Alternate Member #2, Term ending June 30, 2017 Acting Chairman Freeman asked for a motion to nominate Chairman. Mr. Lonergan nominated Tom Freeman. Second Mr. Kirby. All in favor. Chairman Freeman asked for a motion to nominate Vice-Chairman. Mayor Ryan nominated Larry Lonergan. Second Ms. Critchley. All in favor. Chairman Freeman asked for a motion to nominate Secretary. Mayor Ryan nominated Ashley Eagan. Second Mr. Helb. All in favor. Mayor Ryan administered Oath of Office to Ms. Eagan Attorney Greg Mascera states the need for a nomination for an official newspaper of the Board. Mr. Roman nominated the Verona-Cedar Grove Times. Second Mayor Ryan. All in favor.
Chairman Freeman acknowledges RICE notice that was sent to Mr. Mascera prior to the meeting. He also acknowledges a letter that was sent from Mayor Ryan to Mr. Mascera addressing concerns with his continuation as the Planning Board Attorney. Mr. Mascera agrees to continue with the discussion in open session. Chairman Freeman then asked Mayor Ryan and Councilman Roman to voice their concerns. Councilman Roman talks about instances of Mr. Mascera’s demeanor and possible conflicts of interest he may have by continuing as the Boards Attorney. Mayor Ryan concurred with Councilman Roman and stated his own opinion. Roman mentions the possibility of placing an RFQ for the position, as has been done in the past. Mr. Mascera refutes any instances brought up by both Mayor Ryan and Councilman Roman. Chairman Freeman asks all members of the Board to voice their opinions or ask any questions they may have. Each member does so. Chairman Freeman makes a motion for the nomination of Planning Board Attorney. Mr. Lonergan nominates Mr. Mascera. Second by Ms. Collins. Roll Call. Aye: Chairman Freeman, Ms. Critchley, Mr. Lonergan, Mr. Kirby, Mr. Foley, Ms. Collins Nay: Mayor Ryan, Councilman Roman Abstain: Mr. Helb Mr. Foley and Ms. Critchley mention the need to recuse themselves of hearing the application due to the fact they reside within 200 feet of the property. Minutes Chairman Freeman asked the Board to consider the minutes from the April 28th regular meeting. Mr. Lonergan made a motion to approve, second by Ms. Critchley. Ms. Collins abstained. All in favor. Chairman Freeman asked the Board to consider the minutes for the May 26th regular meeting. Mayor Ryan motioned to approve, second by Vice Chairman Lonergan. Ms. Critchley and Ms. Collins abstain. All in favor. Approval of Planning Board Dates for 2016 – 2017: Chairman Freeman asked for a motion to approve the dates for the 2016 – 2017 Planning Board Meetings. Chairman Freeman asked if the scheduled dates seemed convenient for the Board Members. Mayor Ryan noted that if needed a meeting date could always be revised or changed with the proper notice. Motioned by Councilman Roman. Second Mr. Foley. All in favor. Chairman Freeman states there will be a break from 9:08PM until 9:20PM.
Hearing of Developers and Applicants: Minor Sub-Division Application and Preliminary and Final Site Plan Application for Block 201 Lots 15, 16, 17, 18 & 52, known as 141-163 Bloomfield Avenue & 33 Douglas Place. Chairman Freeman states for the record that Ms. Critchley and Mr. Foley recused themselves due to the fact they reside within 200 feet of the applicant property. Mr. Christopher Minks introduces himself as general council to Russo Development, which is part of D & R Verona LLC, owner of the applicant property.
2
Chairman Freeman asked Attorney Mr. Mascera if the application is complete. Mr. Mascera confirms that it is a complete application. Mr. Minks continues by giving an overview of the plans. He then introduces the architect Mr. Kirk Vieheilig from DMR Architects. Mr. Mascera asks that he can be sworn in as an expert by the Board. With no objection he is given an oath by Mr. Mascera. Mr. Minks and Mr. Vieheilig ask that exhibits be marked into the record. The applicants Exhibit A1- Conceptual Plan Set consisting of 8 pages, dated October 27, 2016 and Exhibit A2- Architectural Plan Set consisting of 13 pages, dated July 15, 2016, were marked into record. Mr. Vieheilig then continues with an overview of how many units each building will consist of, where amenities will be located, as well as where parking will be located. Chairman Freeman asks that Board Exhibits be marked on the record. They are listed as the following. B1- Memo from Bridget Bogart dated October 7, 2016 consisting of 7 pages B2- Memo from Fire Official, undated consisting of 2 pages B3- Memo from Tom Jacobsen Code Enforcement Official, dated September 13, 2016 B4- Memo from Bob Dickinson Shade Tree Commission, dated July 28, 2016 B5- Memo from Glen Houthuysen Landmarks Commission, dated August 2, 2016 B6- Memo from Police Chief Mitchell Stern, dated August 8, 2016 B7- Memo from Environmental Commission, dated August 7, 2016 B8- Memo from Environmental Commission, dated October 12, 2016 B9- Memo from Jim Helb Township Engineer, dated October 24, 2016 B10- Mott McDonald Storm Water Management Review, dated September 13, 2016 B11- Hamal Associates Traffic Report, dated September 16, 2016 Mr. Vieheilig addresses comments made by Bridget Bogart in Exhibit B1, he states that all units will have their own washers and dryers, their own HVAC units, and their own utility connections. He continues on describing the floor plans of each building laid out in Exhibit A1 and A2. Mr. Vieheilig addresses the deviation in the top floor set back, stating the stairs extend closer than the 6 foot minimum. He describes how they are going to maintain the look and feel of the existing Annin building and try and merge and accentuate that in the building and materials of the second building. Mr. Helb expresses concerns about the top floor design, stating that the Townships Redevelopment Ordinance requires a similar finish. He asks if there could be a similar stucco finish on the new building. Mr. Minx states they can come up with renderings that show a similar stucco finish in both buildings. Chairman Freeman clarifies that they are seeking a minor deviation for materials used on the additional floor of Building A and that they will bring additional rendering and sample materials to the Board for review. Mr. Helb addresses the HVAC units in the buildings. Mr. Vieheilig explains that they will be located on the roof as close to the center as possible, with stair access. Councilman Roman asks if there is a possibility for them to be seen from surrounding neighborhoods. Mr. Minks states that they will be screened. Mr. Helb asks about security in the buildings. If it is possible for tenants to access amenities in each building, as well as any basements. Mr. Vieheilig continues with Exhibit A2 and gives an overview of Building B, consisting of 60 unites over a 34 space, gated access, open air ventilated, parking garage. He also lays out the plans for floor 2 through 4 and the set back and terrace of the fifth floor.
3
There is discussion on the window size of Building A and if it can be replicated in Building B. Mr. Helb states that similar window grids would make the buildings look more cohesive. Chairman Freeman asks the Board if they have any questions for the Architect. Mr. DeOld asks about the height between the floor is the same for both buildings. Mr. Minks states that they would still be different even if they used similar windows. Chairman Freeman asks if anyone from the public has any questions for the Architect. Mr. Joseph Zinelli the owner of 133 Bloomfield Avenue expresses states he feels forgotten as a neighbor to this property. Attorney Mascera interjects and states that at this time the public is only to question the expert and he will be given a chance to speak at another time. Mr. Wayne Gallagher owner of 30 Douglas Place states his concern for bright parking lots. Mr. Minx states that he can address it at the next meeting when the engineer testifies. Adjourn After a motion made by Mayor Ryan and Board Member Kirby seconded it and there was a unanimous vote to adjourn at 10:50pm. Respectfully submitted, Ashley Eagan Planning Board Secretary PLEASE NOTE: Meeting minutes are a summation of the hearing. If you are interested in a verbatim transcript from this or any proceeding, please contact the Planning Board office at 973-857-4805.
4
Present: Chairman Tom Freeman Vice Chair Larry Lonergan Mayor Kevin Ryan Councilman Alex Roman Mr. Jim Kirby
Mr. Victor Lugo Ms. Jennifer Critchley Mr. Jim Helb, Township Engineer Mr. Greg Mascera, Planning Board Attorney Ashley Eagan, Planning Board Secretary
Meeting called to order at 7:43 P.M. Pledge of Allegiance: Acting Chairman Freeman reads Open Public Meetings Act Statement. Public Hearing: Re-Organization of the Planning Board: Acting Chairman Freeman stated that tonight is the Re-Organization of the Planning Board and they will make nominations for members and then there will be a vote. Mayor Ryan administered Oaths of Office in unison to the following members, as per Resolution 2016-116 passed by the Township of Verona Town Council on July 11, 2016 laying out the terms for the Planning Board Members: - Larry Lonergan- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2019 - Michael Foley- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2018 - Melissa Collins- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2018 - James Kirby- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2020 - Thomas Freeman- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2017 - Jennifer Critchley- Class IV Member, Term ending June 30, 2017 - Alex Roman- Class III Member, Term ending June 30, 2017 - James Helb- Class II Member, Term ending June 30, 2017 - Victor Lugo- Alternate Member #1, Term ending June 30, 2018 - Al DeOld- Alternate Member #2, Term ending June 30, 2017 Acting Chairman Freeman asked for a motion to nominate Chairman. Mr. Lonergan nominated Tom Freeman. Second Mr. Kirby. All in favor. Chairman Freeman asked for a motion to nominate Vice-Chairman. Mayor Ryan nominated Larry Lonergan. Second Ms. Critchley. All in favor. Chairman Freeman asked for a motion to nominate Secretary. Mayor Ryan nominated Ashley Eagan. Second Mr. Helb. All in favor. Mayor Ryan administered Oath of Office to Ms. Eagan Attorney Greg Mascera states the need for a nomination for an official newspaper of the Board. Mr. Roman nominated the Verona-Cedar Grove Times. Second Mayor Ryan. All in favor.
Chairman Freeman acknowledges RICE notice that was sent to Mr. Mascera prior to the meeting. He also acknowledges a letter that was sent from Mayor Ryan to Mr. Mascera addressing concerns with his continuation as the Planning Board Attorney. Mr. Mascera agrees to continue with the discussion in open session. Chairman Freeman then asked Mayor Ryan and Councilman Roman to voice their concerns. Councilman Roman talks about instances of Mr. Mascera’s demeanor and possible conflicts of interest he may have by continuing as the Boards Attorney. Mayor Ryan concurred with Councilman Roman and stated his own opinion. Roman mentions the possibility of placing an RFQ for the position, as has been done in the past. Mr. Mascera refutes any instances brought up by both Mayor Ryan and Councilman Roman. Chairman Freeman asks all members of the Board to voice their opinions or ask any questions they may have. Each member does so. Chairman Freeman makes a motion for the nomination of Planning Board Attorney. Mr. Lonergan nominates Mr. Mascera. Second by Ms. Collins. Roll Call. Aye: Chairman Freeman, Ms. Critchley, Mr. Lonergan, Mr. Kirby, Mr. Foley, Ms. Collins Nay: Mayor Ryan, Councilman Roman Abstain: Mr. Helb Mr. Foley and Ms. Critchley mention the need to recuse themselves of hearing the application due to the fact they reside within 200 feet of the property. Minutes Chairman Freeman asked the Board to consider the minutes from the April 28th regular meeting. Mr. Lonergan made a motion to approve, second by Ms. Critchley. Ms. Collins abstained. All in favor. Chairman Freeman asked the Board to consider the minutes for the May 26th regular meeting. Mayor Ryan motioned to approve, second by Vice Chairman Lonergan. Ms. Critchley and Ms. Collins abstain. All in favor. Approval of Planning Board Dates for 2016 – 2017: Chairman Freeman asked for a motion to approve the dates for the 2016 – 2017 Planning Board Meetings. Chairman Freeman asked if the scheduled dates seemed convenient for the Board Members. Mayor Ryan noted that if needed a meeting date could always be revised or changed with the proper notice. Motioned by Councilman Roman. Second Mr. Foley. All in favor. Chairman Freeman states there will be a break from 9:08PM until 9:20PM.
Hearing of Developers and Applicants: Minor Sub-Division Application and Preliminary and Final Site Plan Application for Block 201 Lots 15, 16, 17, 18 & 52, known as 141-163 Bloomfield Avenue & 33 Douglas Place. Chairman Freeman states for the record that Ms. Critchley and Mr. Foley recused themselves due to the fact they reside within 200 feet of the applicant property. Mr. Christopher Minks introduces himself as general council to Russo Development, which is part of D & R Verona LLC, owner of the applicant property.
2
Chairman Freeman asked Attorney Mr. Mascera if the application is complete. Mr. Mascera confirms that it is a complete application. Mr. Minks continues by giving an overview of the plans. He then introduces the architect Mr. Kirk Vieheilig from DMR Architects. Mr. Mascera asks that he can be sworn in as an expert by the Board. With no objection he is given an oath by Mr. Mascera. Mr. Minks and Mr. Vieheilig ask that exhibits be marked into the record. The applicants Exhibit A1- Conceptual Plan Set consisting of 8 pages, dated October 27, 2016 and Exhibit A2- Architectural Plan Set consisting of 13 pages, dated July 15, 2016, were marked into record. Mr. Vieheilig then continues with an overview of how many units each building will consist of, where amenities will be located, as well as where parking will be located. Chairman Freeman asks that Board Exhibits be marked on the record. They are listed as the following. B1- Memo from Bridget Bogart dated October 7, 2016 consisting of 7 pages B2- Memo from Fire Official, undated consisting of 2 pages B3- Memo from Tom Jacobsen Code Enforcement Official, dated September 13, 2016 B4- Memo from Bob Dickinson Shade Tree Commission, dated July 28, 2016 B5- Memo from Glen Houthuysen Landmarks Commission, dated August 2, 2016 B6- Memo from Police Chief Mitchell Stern, dated August 8, 2016 B7- Memo from Environmental Commission, dated August 7, 2016 B8- Memo from Environmental Commission, dated October 12, 2016 B9- Memo from Jim Helb Township Engineer, dated October 24, 2016 B10- Mott McDonald Storm Water Management Review, dated September 13, 2016 B11- Hamal Associates Traffic Report, dated September 16, 2016 Mr. Vieheilig addresses comments made by Bridget Bogart in Exhibit B1, he states that all units will have their own washers and dryers, their own HVAC units, and their own utility connections. He continues on describing the floor plans of each building laid out in Exhibit A1 and A2. Mr. Vieheilig addresses the deviation in the top floor set back, stating the stairs extend closer than the 6 foot minimum. He describes how they are going to maintain the look and feel of the existing Annin building and try and merge and accentuate that in the building and materials of the second building. Mr. Helb expresses concerns about the top floor design, stating that the Townships Redevelopment Ordinance requires a similar finish. He asks if there could be a similar stucco finish on the new building. Mr. Minx states they can come up with renderings that show a similar stucco finish in both buildings. Chairman Freeman clarifies that they are seeking a minor deviation for materials used on the additional floor of Building A and that they will bring additional rendering and sample materials to the Board for review. Mr. Helb addresses the HVAC units in the buildings. Mr. Vieheilig explains that they will be located on the roof as close to the center as possible, with stair access. Councilman Roman asks if there is a possibility for them to be seen from surrounding neighborhoods. Mr. Minks states that they will be screened. Mr. Helb asks about security in the buildings. If it is possible for tenants to access amenities in each building, as well as any basements. Mr. Vieheilig continues with Exhibit A2 and gives an overview of Building B, consisting of 60 unites over a 34 space, gated access, open air ventilated, parking garage. He also lays out the plans for floor 2 through 4 and the set back and terrace of the fifth floor.
3
There is discussion on the window size of Building A and if it can be replicated in Building B. Mr. Helb states that similar window grids would make the buildings look more cohesive. Chairman Freeman asks the Board if they have any questions for the Architect. Mr. DeOld asks about the height between the floor is the same for both buildings. Mr. Minks states that they would still be different even if they used similar windows. Chairman Freeman asks if anyone from the public has any questions for the Architect. Mr. Joseph Zinelli the owner of 133 Bloomfield Avenue expresses states he feels forgotten as a neighbor to this property. Attorney Mascera interjects and states that at this time the public is only to question the expert and he will be given a chance to speak at another time. Mr. Wayne Gallagher owner of 30 Douglas Place states his concern for bright parking lots. Mr. Minx states that he can address it at the next meeting when the engineer testifies. Adjourn After a motion made by Mayor Ryan and Board Member Kirby seconded it and there was a unanimous vote to adjourn at 10:50pm. Respectfully submitted, Ashley Eagan Planning Board Secretary PLEASE NOTE: Meeting minutes are a summation of the hearing. If you are interested in a verbatim transcript from this or any proceeding, please contact the Planning Board office at 973-857-4805.
4
