Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Franklin Township public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in zoning with low priority
Second freestanding sign variance in NB zone
The newly opened car wash at Route 27 and Sinclair Blvd wants a freestanding sign set about 9 feet from the frontage, well inside the required 20-foot setback. Reviewers flagged questions about the exact setback, landscaping, overhead wires, and unapproved signs already posted.
Kyle Porter residential addition at 46 Vermont Avenue
A routine homeowner variance to line up a one-story addition with the existing house's nonconforming setback. Approved unanimously with no opposition.
Board bylaws on advance submission of application materials
Frustrated by objector letters filed the day of the hearing, the chair wants to revisit a bylaw requiring all materials a week in advance. A discussion item will be on the next agenda.
FAR miscalculation on approved Norma Avenue townhouses
Three years after approving a 12-townhouse project at 64 Norma Avenue, the board had to clarify that the true floor area ratio is .34, not the .27 recorded in its 2023 resolution, because the original architect miscalculated on the spot at the hearing. The buildings themselves are unchanged.
Second-floor residential conversion at 6 Hawthorne Drive
The owner of a medical office building got approval to turn second-floor storage into a studio apartment — a rare mixed-use approval in the Hamilton Street Business District for a property that doesn't front Hamilton Street. The original 2007 approval restricted the second floor to storage over parking concerns, but the site now has eight spaces.
Mixed residential-commercial use at 6 Hawthorne Drive
Art Heinrich got approval to convert a second-floor storage attic into a studio apartment with a shower, fixing a condition tied to a decades-old parking restriction on the property.
Unpermitted signage at Dream on Me warehouse
A sign contractor installed oversized signs at the 45 Veronica Avenue warehouse without permits and contrary to what it told the operator. The board granted after-the-fact variances and adopted the resolution of approval.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Councilman Singh raised a resident's concern that zoning bans ADUs for families caring for elderly parents, and suggested starting a land use conversation about a balanced approach.