The Board also has the duty of reviewing changes or development in the Historic District as it pertains to the exterior of log structures. The Board has been in existence since 1976. In 1995 the Planning Board was combined with the Zoning Board to form a single 9 member board with no alternates. This combining of Boards was allowed under state regulations in communities with a population of less than 10,000 in an effort to reduce municipal government expenses. The members of the Board are as prescribed by New Jersey State statute as well as volunteers of all backgrounds from the community, who are appointed by Borough Council.
Meetings are open to the public and advertised under the provisions of the Sunshine Law.
If any proposed construction fails to meet these requirements, the Construction Code Official will deny a building permit for the construction. The decision to grant a variance or not is made by the Planning Board based on the facts presented at a hearing during the regular monthly meeting of the Board. This process can take some time and it s a good reason why you should apply for a building permit at least a month prior to starting any construction work. Click here for more information on the variance process.