Planning board approves two residential variances, sets conditions for construction

The Brielle Planning/Zoning Board on Feb. 17 granted variance approvals for two residential projects and set conditions the applicants must meet before or shortly after construction.

At 100 Ocean Ave., owners Carl and Caryl Voorhees received approval to replace a sunroom with a two‑story front addition, add a rear second‑story infill and install a new paver patio. Architect Mary Hearn described modest changes that increase building coverage from 19.8% to 20.7% and stated the additions would not extend beyond the existing roofline. The Board’s approval carries conditions: the applicants must submit an as‑built survey within 45 days of construction completion to confirm the location and dimensions of an on‑site shed, and must apply to the Borough Council for an encroachment permit within 90 days for fence sections that lie in the municipal right‑of‑way; if the encroachment is denied, the fence must be moved.

For 316½ Fisk Ave., the Board approved demolition of the existing dwelling and construction of a new 2.5‑story home after testimony from engineer Nicholas DeCotiis and planner Robert Hudak demonstrated a need for variances. The applicants requested relief for minimum lot frontage and a maximum building height of about 38.42 feet in a zone with a 35‑foot limit; Hudak cited prior approvals, flood‑zone design constraints and C1/C2 variance criteria in support of the proposal. The Board imposed conditions including submission of the driveway easement document, DEP and Soil Conservation approvals within 60 days, screening for pool equipment and revised plans filed with the Board Secretary.

Both applications passed on unanimous roll calls of the members present, with recusal or not‑eligible votes recorded where applicable.