MINUTES OF LAND USE BOARD MEETING

January 12, 2009

 

 

        Mayor Burzichelli swore in the following members for new terms: Allen Gray, Rita Kelly and Phil Zimm.

 

        The Reorganization meeting of the Land Use Board of the Borough of Paulsboro was called to order by the Solicitor, John Alice, on January 12, 2009 at approximately 7:00 p.m. 

 

        Open Public Meetings Act was read by John Alice, Esquire, Solicitor. 

 

        The Board saluted the flag with the Pledge of Allegiance

 

        Roll Call:  Members Present: John Burzichelli, Robert DeAngelo, Allen Gray, Larry Haynes, Rita Kelly, Leon Manchester, Inez Nelson, James Scott, Alice Williams, Wayne Wurtz, Phil Zimm.

 

        Absent: James Salvatore, James Sharper

 

        Also present:  John Alice, Solicitor; Melanie Adamson, PE, Board’s Engineer; and Marc Kamp, Zoning Officer.

 

        Nominations were accepted for Chairman of the Board.  James Scott nominated Wayne Wurtz for Chairman, seconded by Leon Manchester – Roll Call Vote: In Favor – J. Burzichelli, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz, P. Zimm.  Against – None – Abstentions - None. 

 

        The meeting was turned over to the Chairman to proceed and nominations were accepted for Vice-Chairman.  James Scott nominated Leon Manchester for Vice-Chairman, seconded by Rita Kelly.   Roll Call Vote: In Favor – J. Burzichelli, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz, P. Zimm.  Against – None – Abstentions - None. 

 

        Nominations for Secretary were accepted.  James Scott nominated Alice Williams, seconded by Inez Nelson. Roll Call Vote: In Favor – J. Burzichelli, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz, P. Zimm.  Against – None – Abstentions - None.

 

        A motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by James Scott to appoint John Alice, Esquire as Solicitor to the Board.  Roll Call Vote: In Favor – J. Burzichelli, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz, P. Zimm.  Against – None – Abstentions - None. 

 

        A motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by James Scott to appoint Remington and Vernick as Planner for the Board. Roll Call Vote: In Favor – J. Burzichelli, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz, P. Zimm.  Against – None – Abstentions - None. 

 

        A motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by James Scott to appoint Remington and Vernick as Engineer for the Board. Roll Call Vote: In Favor – J. Burzichelli, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz, P. Zimm.  Against – None – Abstentions - None. 

 

        A motion was made by Rita Kelly, seconded by Leon Manchester to adopt the following meeting dates for the Land Use Board: February 2, 2009; March 2, 2009, April 6, 2009, May 4, 2009 June 1, 2009, July 6, 2009, August 3, 2009, September 14, 2009, October 5, 2009, November 9, 2009, December 7, 2009 and Reorganization for 2010 shall be January 11, 2010. Roll Call Vote: In Favor – J. Burzichelli, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz, P. Zimm.  Against – None – Abstentions - None. 

 

        A motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by James Scott to name the Gloucester County Times and Courier Post as the official Newspapers for the Board.  Roll Call Vote: In Favor – J. Burzichelli, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz, P. Zimm.  Against – None – Abstentions - None. 

 

 

        A motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by Inez Nelson to open the meeting to the public.  There being no one from the public wishing to speak a motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by James Scott to close the meeting to the public.

 

        A letter was received from AmSpec requesting changes to the approval previously granted to the applicant.  James Ford, President addressed the Board asking the approval be amended as follows:

        1.  Replace bottom row of windows with shorter windows

        2.  Stucco the bottom of the building.

        3.  Instead of glass doors that there be a six panel door

        4.  And in the future that they be permitted to close off one garage door.

He stated that he would like the whole project to be done by June 1st.  The windows will have commercial look and will provide a copy of the proposed windows.   When questioned about the removal of the garage door he indicated that one will stay.

        A motion was made by Phil Zimm, seconded by James Scott to approve the request provided that the applicant submit a letter with the changes clearly marked and that all work be done by June 1, 2009.  Roll Call Vote:  In Favor – J. Burzichelii, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz, P.Zimm. Against – None – Abstentions None.

 

        Applicant, Mark Zimmerman was called, however, he was not present.  A Motion was made by L. Manchester seconded by James Scott, to move the matter to the end of the meeting in the event the applicant arrives.

Voice Vote:  All Ayes, No nays – No Abstentions.

 

        A new application was submitted by NuStar (formerly Citgo Asphalt) for a site plan to install a Modular Office Building on property known as Block 1.03, Lot 1 – Paradise Road.

        William Horner, Esquire, represented the applicant and asked that the applicant’s engineer, Thomas Shevlin, Jr. be sworn in.  Mr. Shevlin identified himself as a Licensed Professional Engineer and a Professional Planner, employed by UNI Engineering.  He indicated that they represent Nu Star as consulting engineers and the address for UNI is 156 Stockton Street, Highstown, New Jersey. 

        The applicant’s are requesting a minor site plan to remove an existing building and install a  modular office building to be used for contractors on the site not employed by NuStar.    They do have existing pre-owned Modular buildings on the site.  They plan to bulldoze the old building and put in a Modular building. 

        As to parking there is room for 20 cars.  It is a secure facility and not everyone is allowed in the area. 

        As to lighting – there is existing street lights – there is not much night time activity on the site thus there is not a big need for lighting.  The area is fenced in and security patrols the area.  The existing lighting is only for people leaving.

        The following items were submitted as Exhibits:

        NuStar  1 – set up plan

        NuStar  2 – existing conditions

        NuStar  3 -  floor plans

 

        Mr. Shevlin testified that the existing parking is sufficient and the existing lighting is sufficient.  Further he testified that there is existing drainage for Stormwater run-off.

        Melanie Adamson of Remington and Vernick reviewed her report.  She indicated that the applicant was requesting waivers however, she would like to see plans with elevations and floor plans included.   The plans should have a parking count and the plans should be revised to show which driveway is to be eliminated.  As to Asphalt or stone coverage on parking area that is up to the Board.  The plans should also more clearly define the street lights and lighting.

        The applicant will comply with and agrees to all other comments in the Engineer’s report. 

        There was a question from the Board as to whether this fits the criteria of not allowing trailers on properties – is this some sort of a permanent structure – is it taxable.

 

        The applicant’s engineer stated that once the modular building is on the foundation it is a permanent structure and it becomes taxable.  Also it must meet the IBC standards.  There will be skirting around the foundation.  The Board is requesting an elevation drawing to see how the structure will look.

 

        The Board is requesting that the plans must depict how many parking spaces, and how many employees – also, the Board will accept stone.  Further calculations for parking at an industrial site must be provided.  Also, must be handicap accessible – and a ramp with handles.

 

        A motion to open this portion of the meeting to the public was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by Rita Kelly.  There being no one from the public wishing to speak on this matter, a motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by Inez Nelson to close the meeting to the public. 

 

        A motion was made by Phil Zimm, seconded by Rita Kelly to continue the application to the next meeting to allow the applicant to provide the requested items and plans.  The next meeting is scheduled for February 2, 2009 and no additional notices are required to be sent by applicant as an announcement was made at the meeting.

 

 

        An application was submitted by FHG Enterprises to construct a fast food restaurant (Checkers) at Interchange 18 of Route 295 – Block 124, Lot 6.  William Hyland, Esquire, represented the applicant and asked that the following individuals be sworn in:

        a.  Joseph Gaddis – President – FGH Enterprises

        b.  Paul Cray – Engineer with Kernan Associates

        c.  Michele Young with Kernan Associates

        d.  Robert Tiffany – FGH Project Manager

 

        All were sworn in.

 

        Joseph Gaddis testified that they wish to construct a double drive through restaurant at the site.  He testified that if approved this will be the eighth one in New Jersey.  There is no seating inside of the site – there will be outside seating.  The building consists of a kitchen and a small vestibule for walk-in.   There will be a total of 28 employees at the site working different shifts with 6 to 8 employees at one time.   The hours of operation will be 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. with Friday and Saturdays possibly being till 1:00 a.m.    Open seven days a week with Sundays being 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

 

        Photos of other Checkers in the area were presented, specifically A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4 and A-5, all of which were from the Glassboro Checkers.  There is another Checkers in Sicklerville.  Both Glassboro and Sicklerville are located in Shopping Centers.   The Landscaping is as shown on the photos. 

        When asked how the restaurant is stocked the applicant testified that there are two vendors – MBM is the food supplier and they deliver two times a week using a 24 foot truck and delivery would be between 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m.   They also have a bread delivery at approximately 8:00 a.m. four times a week.

        Remington and Vernick asked about the narrowing down of the both driveways – the applicant responded that although the driveway does narrow down it does also flare out at the end.

        The windows for the drive thru are flush with the building – there is no bump out. 

        There are several points where there are pedestrian walkways for customers to come into the vestibule.  Most sales are generated through the main drive up (60%).  The secondary drive-up generates approximately 20% and there approximately 20% of sales are walk-ups.

        The applicant testified that the project is totally funded and if approved construction can be completed within 120 days maximum from the day they break ground.

        Paul Cray testified that the proposed construction is consistent with what was planned for the site and will generate less traffic than was originally planned. 

        The following exhibits were presented:

        A-6 Lodge Avenue Proposed Site Plan

        A-7 Final Subdivision Map

        A-8 Light Fixtures Exhibit.

       

        The applicant testified that Lodge Avenue would be the main access.  The easement will be on Checkers Lot.  The total lot coverage needed for the project including the easement will be 53%, while 80% is permitted.

        All trash pick up and deliveries will be after hours.   Any buses will use the rear area for parking. 

        The letter from Remington and Vernick has been reviewed and the majority of the comments will be addressed.  The lot is less than two acres.  No relief is requested for any Bulk Variances.  The applicant agrees to all comments in the Engineer’s letter.

        The Trash Enclosure is constructed of white decorative block with chain link gates with black slats.  There is a side entry.  The equipment (HVAC) on the roof is shielded and not visible from the street.

        As shown on A-6 the crosswalks will be decorative brick and would like to be consistent with the proposed WaWa and Hotel.  The rear driveway will be two way and will work better for deliveries and trash removal.

        As to lighting, they propose to use “dark sky friendly” which reduces light pollution and reduces energy.

        As to signage – will be consistent with the Redevelopment Plan for the Hotel and WaWa, however, they may have to come back for the sign out by Route 295.  They are asking for a waiver as to showing the trees on the site.

        Remington and Vernick asked if of the five pedestrian walkways two could be eliminated and the remaining marked with striping and culled out.  It would be more aesthetic. 

        Storm water run off would go to the basin – which is maintained by the land owners.  The only road access would be on the Lodge Avenue extention.  The utilities would be through the Borough.

        A motion was made by John Burzichelli, seconded by Rita Kelly to open the matter to the public. There being no one from the public wishing to speak on this matter, a motion was made by John Burzichelli, seconded by Rita Kelly,  to close the matter to the public.

        A motion was made by Phil Zimm, seconded by Rita Kelly, to approve the preliminary and final site plan approval, contingent upon the sign at Route 295 to be determined at a later date, the pedestrian crossings to be stripped, and other comments as set forth in the Engineers letter.  Roll call Vote: In favor J. Burzichelli, R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, W. Wurtz and P. Zimm.  Against – 0 – Abstentions –L. Manchester

 

        As to the application for Broad Street Development – Subdivision (Block 102 – Lot 2) and Site Plan – Block 93, Lot 19 – John Burzichelli excused himself from the meeting as a major stockholder of Broad Street Development.

        Philipp Duvilla, Esquire, represented the applicant. As to the subdivision – it is a minor subdivision with the lot next to the intersection  of Wood and Spruce Streets.  Broad Street Development is owner of the lot next door.  They wish to take 40 X 62 feet off the back of the lot and annex it into the corner lot owned by John Burzichelli.  Waivers are requested for items B and G on the Engineer’s letter.   A title search will be provided to the Board as well as a certification from the tax collector.  No variances are requested.  As to item two from the Engineers letter dealing with utilities, water and sewer is accessed from Broad Street  The 40 foot portion of the fence on the property being subdivided will be removed within 60 days. 

        The Board asked as to the use for lot two – it has a duplex with off street parking – there are no plans to change that.

        The applicant will make an application for curb cuts for access from Broad Street.

        A motion was made by Rita Kelly, seconded by Leon Manchester to open the meeting to the public.  There being no questions or comments from the public dealing with this matter, a motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by James Scott to close this portion of the meeting to the public. 

A motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by Rita Kelly to approve the subdivision of Lot 1 – reducing the size of Lot 1 and making lot 2 larger.  contingent upon the comments in the report of Remington and Vernick and the applicant’s compliance with same.  Roll Call Vote:  In Favor R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, and W. Wurtz,  Against – None – Abstentions – P. Zimm.

 

As to the application for the site plan by Broad Street Development,  Block 93, Lot 19,  Philipp Duvilla, Esquire, attorney for the applicant presented the application.  The property is known as the old “National 5 & 10” Building.  The applicant proposes to lease approximately 3,500 square feet of the front of the building to a company called Fastenol which deals with outside retail calls.  There may be customers but mostly the facility will be used by salespeople.  There will be three employees on site.  The balance of the building will continue to be used as storage.  There will be nothing done to the outside of the building other than to have a sign.  The Board’s Engineer has recommended that a yield sign be put at the driveway.  The Board’s Engineer stated that 19 parking spaces are required and the applicant will have approximately 6 to 8 parking spaces, however, the applicant, who also owns the Hill Theatre, proposes that the additional parking can be utilized from the Theatre parking lot.  The applicant requests that the submission items contained in the letter of Remington and Vernick be waived.  The applicant plans no changes to the footprint of the building. As to solid waste disposal, same will be picked up by the Borough. 

The applicant proposes no new lighting and no outside storage.  The proposed sign will be affixed to the side of the building and will be in conformance with the Ordinance, as the Ordinance allows 100 feet and the proposed sign will be 40 feet.

The applicant will comply with all other comments contained in the Board Engineer’s letter and comments on the record. 

A motion was made by James Scott, seconded by Leon Manchester to open this portion of the meeting to the public.  There being no questions or comments from the public, a motion was made by James Scott, seconded by Leon Manchester to close the meeting to the public.

A motion was made by Robert DeAngelo, seconded by Leon Manchester, to approve the Site Plan as presented, waiving the submission requirements and the applicants compliance with the comments of the Board’s Engineer contained in the report as well as the comments placed on the record at the meeting. Roll Call Vote: In Favor R. DeAngelo, A. Gray, L. Haynes, R. Kelly, L. Manchester, I. Nelson, J. Scott, A. Williams, and W. Wurtz,  Against – None – Abstentions – P. Zimm.

 

The application of Mark Zimmerman was again called.  Marc Kamp asked that it be continued for one more month on behalf of the applicant.  The solicitor agreed to send a letter to Mr. Zimmerman advising him that the matter will be heard at the next meeting, February 2, 2009 and if he is not able to attend he will have to begin the process again.

 

The following Resolutions were approved:

 

2009-01 – APPOINT CHAIRMAN – WAYNE WURTZ

2009-02 – APPOINT VICE CHAIRMAN – LEON MANCHESTER

2009-03 -  APPOINT SECRETARY – ALICE WILLIAMS

2009-04 – APPOINT PLANNER – REMINGTON &VERNICK

2009-05 – APPOINT ENGINEER – REMINGTON & VERNICK

2009-06 -  APPOINT SOLICITOR – JOHN ALICE

2009-07 – MEETING DATES

2009-08 – NEWSPAPERS - 

 

2009-09  STEPHEN J. KOCINSKI – 347 Greenwich Avenue – Block 21, Lot 27

                Appeal of denial of Zoning Permit Application – Applicant to rebuild

                a wood framed duplex on an existing foundation – residence was

                damaged in a fire in January of 2008 – purchased by Applicant

                in March of 2008.  Duplex was set back from the front property

                line by 11 feet – LUO requires 30 feet - Section 80-29.D states

                “Restoration.  A nonconforming building wholly or partially

                destroyed by fire …. may be reconstructed… provided that

                building reconstruction be commenced within one year from

                date building destroyed….provided that reconstructed building

                comply with established front-yard or building line requirements”

                Application for front yard setback relief from required 30 feet

                to 11 feet Denied. Hearing Date 12/1/08 –Memorialized 1-12-09 –                    Roll Call Vote In Favor: 10 – Against – 0 – Abstentions – 0-

 

2009-10      DANA KEARNEY228 Vanneman Boulevard – Block 107 Lot 7 –

                application for interpretation – locating a group home in an

                existing residential dwelling located at the subject property – the

                applicant wishes to utilize the existing four bedroom dwelling as

                a State of New Jersey group home for up to six individuals

                which are members of one of the following – elderly, disabled

                adults or developmentally disabled.  Pursuant to N.J.S.A.

                40:55D-66.1 the applicant is permitted to maintain and operate

                a State of New Jersey Licensed group home according to

                limitations and subject to site plan approval.  Hearing Date:

                12/1/08 – Granted –Memorialized 1-12-09 – Roll Call

                Vote : In Favor 10- Against 0 – Abstentions 0.                   

 

 

 

 

        A motion was made by Leon Manchester, seconded by James Scott to open the meeting to the Public.  There being no one wishing to speak or address the Board, a motion was made by James Scott, seconded by Leon Manchester to close the meeting to the public.

 

        The secretary advised the Board that there are seminars being offered if anyone is interested.  All members of the Board have completed the required courses, however, there are updates for any interested members.

 

        There being no further business, a motion was made by Leon Manchester seconded by James Scott to adjourn the meeting.  The meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:50 p.m.

 

        These minutes are an extract from the meeting that was held on the above date and are not to be considered a verbatim account or to be construed as an official transcript of the proceedings.  The tape of the meeting is stored in the Borough Hall.

 

        Respectfully submitted,

 

        Alice B. Williams,

        Secretary Land Use Board