Planning board approves resolutions, grants extension and issues master‑plan referrals

The Morris Township Planning Board on March 3 took a series of formal actions: it memorialized two prior approvals with resolutions, granted an extension while retaining a tree‑replacement deed restriction for a subdivision, and issued master‑plan consistency findings on four proposed ordinances, including a determination that a proposed zoning map adjustment is inconsistent with the township master plan.

Early on the agenda the board unanimously adopted a resolution memorializing its previous approval for façade signage at the Red Oaks School (resolution PB0624). The board also adopted a resolution granting amended preliminary and final plan approval with deviations for the redevelopment project at 355 Madison Avenue (referred to in discussion as “the Abbey” or Restoration Hardware project; resolution PB0724); planning counsel recorded that the board’s earlier approval included numerous technical deviations and conditions and that the board had voted 9–0 to approve those changes when the application was last heard.

On a separate procedural matter the board considered a request from the township engineering office to remove a tree‑replacement deed restriction placed on PV00121 (34 Starlight Drive). The engineering office advised the board removing the deed restriction was unnecessary because tree removal and replacement obligations are enforced via grading permits and a tree‑removal permit required at the time of construction on newly created lots. The board nonetheless voted to leave the deed restriction in place and granted a 190‑day extension related to subdivision recordation and permitting steps; the extension was granted on a motion noting DEP permitting delays as the reason for the request.

The board also completed four master‑plan consistency referrals sent by the governing body. Planning consultant Paul Phillips reviewed each proposed ordinance and recommended findings as follows: - Ordinance O125 (amending tree protection requirements in Chapter 57): planner recommended the change is not inconsistent with the master plan because the amendment narrows the homestead exemption to comply with NJDEP requirements and retains the ordinance’s tree‑preservation objectives. - Ordinance O225 (amending site‑plan exception provisions in Chapter 57): planner recommended the change is not inconsistent with the master plan; the amendment clarifies administrative exceptions and would exempt items such as roof‑mounted solar and EV charging equipment from board review. - Ordinance O425 (zoning map adjustment for Lot 3105, Lot 6 to eliminate a small “jog” in zone boundaries to allow subdivision of a carriage house): Phillips advised the change is technically inconsistent with the adopted master plan map (the land‑use element map predates the change), and the planner recommended the board find the proposed ordinance inconsistent; the board voted to record that inconsistency so the governing body must adopt a reasons resolution if it proceeds. - Ordinance O825 (creation of a cannabis overlay zone in part of the I‑21 district along Ridgedale Avenue): the planner recommended the overlay is not inconsistent with the master plan, noting the master plan’s prior recommendation to review that corridor for alternate uses; the board voted accordingly. The board and the planner noted the planning board’s role on these referrals is limited to master‑plan consistency; policy details and licensing questions will be addressed at the governing body public hearing slated for March 19.

The meeting closed with the usual legislative/administrative reports and an opportunity for public comment. Several residents urged the township committee to consider the scope and locations proposed for cannabis businesses at the governing‑body hearing.

Votes recorded on individual items are memorialized in the board’s official resolutions and minutes; the text above summarizes the board’s formal findings and decisions disclosed in the March 3 transcript.