I am embarrassed about what is going on in (Marlboro) these days as it relates to over-development. The fact that the zoning board unilaterally decided to change the use of the parcel now called "Tennent Estates" is a disgrace to the township.
It is the Township Council’s responsibility to oversee zoning issues. The whole purpose of the zoning board making land use/zoning recommendations to the council is to ensure that the proper checks and balances are in place within our municipality.
When a board decides to take those checks and balances into its own hand, it always smells fishy, as it does here. Why did the board not consider changing the zoning from commercial to residential? Could it be that they didn’t think council would approve it? Do you think?
It should be the council’s responsibility to take action against the zoning board as it relates to this parcel. It should not be a single resident’s or an action committee’s responsibility to ensure that this parcel does not get used for 35 residential homes when it is zoned for commercial use. I can’t imagine what "hardships" the property owner was able to show that would encourage the change.
The concession from the builder to "donate" $200,000 to our (affordable housing) fund and donating 6 acres for open space that we can’t use for any active or passive recreational use hardly seems enough to warrant allowing this injustice.
How much do you think the developer is going to make from these 35 homes? How is this a better ratable for the township? It doesn’t seem very equitable to me.
I am hopeful that the Township Council will do the right thing in righting this wrong and ensuring that something like this does not happen again. Remember, every member of the council platformed for open space and stopping over-development in our township. Here is the perfect opportunity for each and every member to rise to the occasion and show the residents of this community that they are standing by their word.
Heidi Judd Card
Marlboro