Planning Board Approves Douglas Road Subdivision Over Neighbors' Historic District Objections

Glen Ridge's Planning Board approved a minor subdivision at 14 Douglas Road (Block 30, Lot 3) at its May 19, 2021 meeting, over objections from two neighbors who argued the property's connection to the Historic District warranted more scrutiny. Applicants Aleksander Vargas and Elisa Cauron, represented by attorney Gregory Mascera, sought to subdivide the property -- which straddles the Glen Ridge/Montclair border -- into two conforming lots with no variances required; Mr. Vargas testified that no changes to the existing home, including its covered porch, were planned. Board member Mr. Hegarty recused himself, stating he lives within 200 feet of the property.

Peter Herrigel, chair of the Historic Preservation Commission, submitted a letter entered as Exhibit B2. During public comment, Evan Hernandez of 15 Douglas Road opposed the subdivision, arguing the parcel's connection to the Historic District should factor into the review and that the proposed 48-foot lot width fell short of the street's roughly 50-foot average; Bill Turner of 17 Douglas Road also spoke in opposition. Secretary Erik DeLine noted the existing structure itself was not being altered, only the lot line. Mascera said the applicants would consider appearing before the HPC in the future if they later pursued construction on the subdivided parcel, but were not required to for the subdivision itself.

The Board voted unanimously to approve the application, with all eight voting members -- Mason, Mehrotra, Councilor Morrow, Meyer, Morrow, Robinson, Turiano, and Zichelli -- voting yes. Board attorney Paul Jemas noted the applicants would still need separate subdivision approval from Montclair before the split could be finalized, and would have to return to both boards for a future site plan application if they later sought to develop the parcel.