Small Properties Could Have More Room to Build

Changes to residential zoning were a major topic for discussion as the town council met Monday night. The agenda was relatively light, although three new ordinances were passed that could potentially affect Livingston residents.

One of these ordinances dealt with changes to the zoning requirements when it comes to building or making modifications to homes whose properties are in zone R-4, the smallest property size, according to the Livingston Zoning Table.

Deputy Mayor Stephen Santola spoke of the struggle in finding a balance between being too restrictive in regards to residential building, while at the same time establishing limitations to keep up with what would fit in with the image of the town.

"Obviously a lot of research was done to try to determine what would be acceptable area ratios that would work in each of the four residential zones," said Santola. "It's a difficult one size fits all."

Santola explained after consulting with the zoning and building officials, the council felt it was appropriate to increase the habitable floor area in the R-4 zone bracket from 2,800 to 3,220 square feet, which equates to a 15 percent increase. In addition, the habitable floor ratio increased from 0.28 to 0.30.

In other business, the council approved the stop sign on Irving Avenue, which was in great detail at the previous meeting. A hearing will be held on Feb. 28 to discuss prohibiting left turns out of the Livingston High School parking lot on Madonna Drive, as well as extending the "No Parking" zone on South Ashby Avenue near the crosswalk that leads into the Hillside Elementary School.

Former Mayor Arlene Johnson was among the members of the community who addressed the council during the public comment session. Johnson received a warm welcome from the current members of the council.

Johnson came to make the public aware of the township's efforts to stay environmentally friendly in regards to the purchases of various janitorial supplies, which were voted on at the meeting by the council.

She noted while in each instance the township chose the lowest bidder, they were mindful of the environment. "What is not made explicit and I think deserves attention is that whenever possible the town purchases green supplies," Johnson said. She explained these "green" supplies avoid toxicity and overall are good for the environment.

Earlier in the evening, during the conference meeting, Councilwoman Deborah Shapiro asked for further detail on the change order involving the paving and milling of the new parking lot on Madonna Drive, which is located directly across the street from Livingston High School.

Deputy Township Manager Russell Jones explained all bids are estimates by engineers and the total amount of work can fluctuate based on what actually needs to be done once the project begins. Township Manager Michele Meade added in general, the bids work in the other direction and the costs are lower than initially expected.

One additional item of note, Jones pointed out the has been successful this year in cutting down on the deer population. The count currently sits at 53 culled for the season.

The town council meets again on Feb. 14 with a Listening Post scheduled for 7 p.m