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Zoning board approves new garage replacement at 346 Norwood Avenue
Summary
The West Long Branch Zoning Board approved a bulk-variance application allowing demolition of a deteriorated detached garage and construction of a replacement garage at 346 Norwood Avenue, subject to engineering, permit and stormwater conditions; the board recorded a 6–1 vote with two absences.
The West Long Branch Zoning Board voted to approve Matthew Pillari’s application to demolish a deteriorated detached garage and construct a new garage at 346 Norwood Avenue (Block 28, Lot 85) with variances for size, height, setbacks and lot coverage.
Board Chairman Mark Engel and member Anastasios Diacogiannis moved and seconded the motion; the roll call recorded six votes in favor (Mathew Clark, Anastasios Diacogiannis, Mark Engel, Nicole Catelli, Paul Giglio and Jerry Moczerniuk), one no (Michael Schulz) and two absences (Vincent Vuocolo, Beth Sarfaty). The minutes record the application was approved on April 21, 2026 subject to conditions including compliance with engineering recommendations, required permits and outside-agency approvals, installation and maintenance of a drywell system, and limitation of the garage to accessory use. Variances expire if not exercised within one year.
The application team argued the narrow, elongated lot and pre-existing site layout necessitated the proposed placement and that the new garage would improve drainage and reduce visibility with screening. Attorney Kevin Asadi and consultant Tim Lurie represented the applicant at the March 17 hearing. The board’s approval cites improved stormwater management and limited neighborhood impact as key reasons for finding both positive and negative criteria satisfied.
Next steps: the applicant must secure all required permits and satisfy the engineering and municipal conditions listed in the approval before construction may proceed.
