Don't Ignore Notices about Changes in Your Neighborhood

Toms River Township has a Master Plan which, in part, designates what is to be located in the various parts of the township, but businesses , residents and others can request variances to allow them to do something different from what is currently permitted. Usually those with 200' of that situation will get a notice of the proposal, but frequently the change will impact others who are outside the 200' radius. A business may want to erect a two story commercial building on a lot too small for it or a neighbor may want to place a shed too close to your property line.
Residents who get the notice should pay close attention to what its impact will be. Will the change generate more traffic, create noise and/or light pollution, negatively impact the value of the home in the area, or create unsafe situations?
Have you ever driven down the street and find a building has been constructed that is out of place in the neighborhood? Chances are someone received a 200' notice and ignored it rather than attending the scheduled meeting to present his or her viewpoint. Residents are at a distinct disadvanage because usually they do not have lawyers to represent them , and they are not familiar with the procedures. The businesses will present testimony and reports at a meeting, and frequently the residents have neither the knowledge nor the expertise to respond at the meeting it is presented and inadequate time to study the proposal to figure out what problems it presents, if any.
Still, you can and should attend meetings or the Township Council, which is currently reviewing the town's master plan, the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Adjustment to get your position on the record. . You can find out when meetings are held by calling 732-341-1000 or by visiting the town's website at: www.tomsrivertownship.com.