Planning Board Finds Proposed R-1 Zoning Overhaul Splitting Borough Into Three Lot-Width Tiers Consistent With Master Plan

The Planning Board reviewed proposed Ordinance 1642 on November 9, 2016, which would implement the board's own recommendation to divide the R-1 Single Family Residential Zone -- currently a uniform 85-foot minimum lot width -- into three sub-zones: R-1-125, R-1-100 and R-1-85, requiring 125-, 100- and 85-foot minimum lot widths respectively, while leaving permitted uses and other bulk requirements unchanged. Secretary Zichelli noted the ordinance also responds to prior Mayor and Council feedback by adding language allowing dwellings on nonconforming lots to be altered, added to or rebuilt so long as height and yard requirements are still met and allowable building area isn't exceeded.

The board found the ordinance consistent with the goals and objectives of the Borough's 2010 Master Plan, including maintaining the borough's single-family residential character, preserving its historic districts, and keeping development patterns consistent with existing neighborhoods. No members of the public commented, and the finding of consistency followed roughly a year and a half of board discussion of R-1 lot-size standards dating back to early 2015.