Toms River public meetings in 2025

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider several subdivision and site plan applications, including a large residential project. The board will also vote on resolutions for previously approved commercial and mixed-use projects.

• Proposed 131-lot development by Promenade Toms River, LLC at Lakewood Rd & Clayton Ave
• Proposed multi-family and retail project by EETTSA, LLC at Bimini Drive & Route 37
• Proposed 9,700 sq ft medical/professional office at 354 Lakehurst Road
• Resolution for mixed-use/commercial and 2 residential units at 26 Seventh Ave
• Resolution for 13,500 sq ft office building at 1492 & 1500 Lakewood Road

The Planning Board unanimously approved purchase orders for escrow and general‑fund billing for board professionals. It adopted two resolutions for major site plans at 1256 Indian Head Road and 1492 Lakewood Road, each with four affirmative votes. The board also approved Alcoeur Homes’ minor subdivision with variances, receiving six affirmative votes, and rescheduled two other minor subdivision applications to January 7 2026.

• Approved escrow billing purchase orders for board attorneys, planners, engineers (unanimously)
• Approved general‑fund billing purchase orders for board attorneys and CSR (unanimously)
• Adopted resolution for 1256 Indian Head Road major site plan (4‑0)
• Adopted resolution for 1492 Lakewood Road major site plan (4‑0)
• Approved Alcoeur Homes minor subdivision with variances (6‑0)
• Rescheduled 11 Spruce Street LLC minor subdivision to Jan 7 2026 (extension granted)
• Rescheduled Silvertown Lily LLC minor subdivision to Jan 7 2026 (extension granted)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider several bulk variance requests for residential pools and a pergola. The board is also reviewing a major site plan for the Riverwood Chase Condo Association to modify parking and recreational areas.

• Riverwood Chase Condo Association: Proposed removal of 12 parking spaces and playground to add 110 parking spaces and a new playground
• Adam Harlan (54 Tenth Street): Bulk variance for in-ground pool setbacks
• Michael & Jillian Messina (15 Barbados Avenue): Bulk variance for pool, equipment, retaining walls, fence, and patio
• Robert Werko (1821 Lookout Drive): Bulk variance for pergola water's edge setback
• Refund vouchers for 1922 Hooper Avenue, LLC and 1901 Route 35 North LLC

The Zoning Board approved escrow refund vouchers for two commercial properties and adopted the February 13, 2025 meeting minutes. It granted a bulk variance for 1878 Monitor Drive and approved variances for three residential pool applications and a pergola. The most significant action was approving the Riverwood Chase Condo major plan, which removes 12 parking stalls, adds 110 new stalls for a net gain of 99, and includes site redesigns. All approvals were passed with seven affirmative votes except the bulk variance, which received six votes.

• Approved escrow refund vouchers for 1922 Hooper Ave, LLC and 1901 Route 35 North LLC (7 votes)
• Approved February 13, 2025 Board of Adjustment minutes (7 votes)
• Approved bulk variance for 1878 Monitor Drive (6 votes)
• Approved pool and related variances for Adam Harlan at 297‑54 Tenth Street (7 votes)
• Approved pool and related variances for Michael & Jillian Messina at 15 Barbados Avenue (7 votes)
• Approved pergola variance for Robert Werko at 1821 Lookout Drive (7 votes)
• Approved Riverwood Chase Condo major plan, net gain of 99 parking spaces (7 votes)

Township Council

The Township Council will vote on final readings for ordinances regarding a soccer association lease and a speed limit reduction. The body is also considering the acquisition of property at 1 Robbins Parkway and a settlement regarding the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan.

• Acquisition of 1 Robbins Parkway (Block 668, Lot 13) via purchase or eminent domain
• 10-year lease agreement with Toms River Soccer Association for Block 298, Lot 5
• Speed limit reduction from 30 mph to 25 mph on Adams Avenue between Vaughn Avenue and Buoy Place
• Settlement agreement with Fair Share Housing Center (Docket No. Ocn-L-331-25)
• New four-year collective negotiations agreement with Policemen's Benevolent Association Local 137 A

The Township Council approved a resolution ratifying the settlement agreement that resolves the Fair Share Housing Center challenge and authorizes the Mayor and Clerk to execute the associated Memorandums of Agreement. The council also approved the November 12 minutes, a high‑school football presentation, and several executive‑session actions. All approvals were recorded with vote counts.

• Approved November 12, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Approved high‑school football presentation (7-0)
• Approved entry into Executive Session (7-0)
• Approved return to open meeting (7-0)
• Approved Executive Session minutes (6-1)
• Approved Settlement Agreement ratifying affordable‑housing settlement (6-1)
• Authorized Mayor and Clerk to execute related Memorandums of Agreement (6-1)

Planning Board

The Toms River Planning Board will approve purchase orders for board attorneys, planners, and engineers. It will also adopt two preliminary and final major site plans with variances that were previously approved at the November 5, 2025 meeting. Additional items include several minor subdivision applications that require board action.

• Approve escrow and general‑fund purchase orders for board attorneys, planners, and engineers
• Approve major site plan for Robert & Julia Shino, Block 1026 (mixed‑use/commercial & 2 residential units, 6,500 sq ft)
• Approve major site plan for 1492 Lakewood Road LLC, Block 412.41 (13,500 sq ft office building)
• Approve minor subdivision for 11 Spruce BH LLC, Block 655.02 (lots 32‑38, zone R‑50, 3,010 sq ft)
• Approve minor subdivision with variances for Silverton Lily LLC, Block 172.04 (lot 15, zone RR, 2.093 acres)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment will review several pending applications, including a Starbucks with drive‑thru and a digital billboard variance on Lots 5.01 and 5.02 of 1632 NJ Route 37. The board will also act on a new pool and outdoor‑kitchen request at 1878 Monitor Drive and approve multiple general and escrow vouchers. An announcement notes that Mary Jo Puma’s variance and minor site plan for 960 Fischer Bivd has been carried to the January 8, 2026 meeting.

• Approval of general vouchers for Denise L. Sweet & Associates, LLC; Dasti & Staiger; and Remington & Vernick Engineers
• Approval of escrow vouchers for Dasti & Staiger; Remington & Vernick; ARH Associates; and Rothstein, Mandell, Strohm et al
• Pending application #13945: Starbucks with drive‑thru and digital billboard variance, plus bulk variance, on Lots 5.01 and 5.02, 1632 NJ Route 37
• New application #13955: In‑ground pool, patio, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and rear deck extension at 1878 Monitor Drive (Zone R‑75)
• Announcement: Mary Jo Puma’s Use (D1) variance and minor site plan for 960 Fischer Bivd carried to the Jan 8 2026 meeting

The Zoning Board adopted a resolution approving a D(1) variance, bulk variance and major site plan for 305 Main Street with six votes. It also approved the Anthony Ciccodicola pool, patio, outdoor kitchen and deck application with seven votes. Several general and escrow vouchers for consulting firms were approved unanimously.

• Approved resolution for Manjit Bajwa Singh – 305 Main St – D(1) variance, bulk variance & major site plan (6 votes)
• Approved Anthony Ciccodicola pool, patio, outdoor kitchen and deck application (7 votes)
• Approved general voucher for Denise L. Sweet & Associates, LLC (7 votes)
• Approved general voucher for Dasti & Staiger (7 votes)
• Approved general voucher for Remington & Vernick Engineers (7 votes)
• Approved escrow voucher for Dasti & Staiger (7 votes)
• Approved escrow voucher for Remington & Vernick Engineers (7 votes)
• Approved escrow voucher for Rothstein, Mandell, Strohm et al (7 votes)

Township Council

The Township Council is considering the dissolution of the Toms River Township Municipal Utilities Authority and the creation of a new Wastewater Collection Services Utility. The meeting also includes several first-reading ordinances regarding township code amendments and property acquisition.

• Dissolution of the Toms River Township Municipal Utilities Authority
• Proposed acquisition of 1 Robbins Parkway (Block 668, Lot 13)
• Contract for Ortley Beach Streetscape and Gateway Treatment Project with Fai-Gon Electric Inc. not to exceed $1,800,426.25
• Contract for playground equipment and surfacing for five parks not to exceed $1,550,774.11
• Road Drainage Improvements Project contract to Earle Asphalt Company not to exceed $1,322,613.13

The Township Council approved a lease agreement with the Toms River Soccer Association for a 10‑year term on land in Riverwood Park. It also adopted an ordinance reducing the speed limit on Adams Avenue (Zone 2) from 30 mph to 25 mph. The council amended claims‑approval procedures, entered and exited an executive session, and approved prior meeting minutes.

• Approved lease with Toms River Soccer Association (10‑year, all council Yes)
• Reduced Adams Avenue speed limit to 25 mph (all council Yes)
• Amended claims‑approval ordinance (approved 3‑Yes, 4‑No; motion failed)
• Approved September 24 meeting minutes (all Yes, President Lamb did not vote)
• Approved honoring resolutions and presentations (all Yes)
• Entered executive session (4‑Yes, 3‑No)
• Returned to open meeting (all Yes)
• Approved executive‑session minutes (6‑Yes, 1‑No)

Planning Board

The Toms River Planning Board will consider several items, including approval of purchase orders for board attorneys, planners, and engineers. It will vote on a minor site plan (PB 25-035) for Homestead Run LP covering 75.92 acres with a 1,500‑sq‑ft storage shed. The board will note the rescheduling of two major site‑plan applications—McDonald’s USA, LLC and EETTSA, LLC—to future meetings, with one requiring public notice. Additional applications that need public notice will also be reviewed.

• Approve purchase orders for escrow and general‑fund billing to board attorneys, planners, and engineers
• Approve minor site plan (PB 25-035) for Homestead Run LP, 75.92 acres, 1,500 sq ft storage shed
• Reschedule McDonald’s USA, LLC major site plan with variances (Block 539, Lot 2.04, 1256 Indian Head Road) to Dec 17 2025 (no public notice required)
• Reschedule EETTSA, LLC major site plan and subdivision (Block 506.01, Lots 1.01‑1.07, Bimini Drive & Route 37) to Dec 3 2025 (public notice required)
• Review applications requiring public notice: Robert & Julia Shino (Block 1026, mixed‑use/commercial & 2 residential units) and 1492 Lakewood Road LLC (Block 412.41, 13,500 sq ft office building)

The Planning Board unanimously approved purchase orders for escrow and general‑fund billing. A minor site‑plan resolution for Homestead Run LP was approved by five votes. The board approved a mixed‑use development on 1256 Indian Head Road (six votes) and an office building on Lakewood Road (six votes).

• Approved escrow billing purchase orders (unanimously)
• Approved general‑fund billing purchase orders (unanimously)
• Approved minor site‑plan resolution for Homestead Run LP (5 affirmative votes)
• Approved Robert & Julia Shino mixed‑use major site plan with variances (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved 1492 Lakewood Road LLC office building major site plan with variances (6 affirmative votes)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The board approved several administrative items, including vouchers and meeting minutes, each with unanimous votes. It also adopted three bulk variance resolutions and approved the variance and site plan for 305 Main Street, converting it to a gas station with conditions, by a 7‑vote majority.

• Approved Dasti & Staiger general voucher (7 votes)
• Approved escrow vouchers for Dasti & Staiger, Remington & Vernick, ARH Associates (7 votes each)
• Approved minutes of the Jan 23, 2025 meeting (7 votes)
• Approved the 2026 Zoning Board meeting schedule (7 votes)
• Approved bulk variance for Walter & Lisa Gotsch, 263 Harbor Court (6 votes)
• Approved bulk variance for Pam Mastronardy, 1235 Coulter Street (6 votes)
• Approved use and D3 variance, minor site plan & subdivision for Hope Sheds Light, 1070 Hooper Ave (6 votes)
• Approved variance and site plan for 305 Main Street gas station conversion (7 votes)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will note that the application of EETTSA, LLC for a preliminary and final major site plan and major subdivision (Block 506.01 at Bimini Drive and Route 37) has been rescheduled to the November 5, 2025 meeting, and that a public notice is required. The board will also consider a minor site plan for Homestead Run LP, Block 298, Lot 1.01, a 75.92‑acre parcel with a 1,500‑sq‑ft storage shed, which does not require public notice. The remainder of the agenda follows standard procedural items.

• Rescheduled EETTSA, LLC major site plan and subdivision (Block 506.01, Bimini Drive & Route 37) to Nov 5, 2025 – public notice required
• Minor site plan – Homestead Run LP, Block 298, Lot 1.01, 75.92 acres, 1,500 sq ft storage shed – public notice not required

The Toms River Township Planning Board voted to approve the minor site plan for a new 1,500‑sq‑ft storage shed on the existing parking lot adjacent to the clubhouse. The motion was made by Mr. Heinzman, seconded by Mr. Pascarella, and received eight affirmative votes. The board also announced that the EETTSA, LLC major site plan application has been rescheduled to the November 5, 2025 meeting.

• Approved minor site plan for 1,500‑sq‑ft storage shed (8-0)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider several bulk and use variance applications for residential additions and commercial developments. The board will also vote on resolutions of approval for previously heard appeals.

• Appeal #13951: Addition, pool, and deck at 263 Harbor Court
• Appeal #13954: Accessory building at 1235 Coulter Street
• Appeal #13947: Second floor addition and two residential units at 960 Fischer Blvd
• Appeal #13952: Subdivision and addition to House of Hope at 1070 Hooper Avenue
• Resolutions of approval for 3304 Windsor Avenue and 24 Bayside Terrace North

The Zoning Board approved four payment vouchers, each with seven affirmative votes. It adopted two bulk variances (5‑0 votes each) and approved three new residential variance applications with seven votes each. The Mary Jo Puma mixed‑use proposal was deferred to the November 13 meeting.

• Approved four payment vouchers (Denise L. Sweet, Dasti & Staiger, Remington & Vernick, ARH Associates) – 7 affirmative votes each
• Adopted bulk variance for Philip & Diane Zranchev, 3304 Windsor Ave – 5 affirmative votes
• Adopted bulk variance for Michael Pisani, 24 Bayside Terrace North – 5 affirmative votes
• Approved Walter & Losa Gotsch residential variance application – 7 affirmative votes
• Approved Pam Mastronardy accessory‑building variance application – 7 affirmative votes
• Approved Hope Sheds Light subdivision and addition variance (no vote tally recorded)
• Deferred Mary Jo Puma mixed‑use variance application to the November 13 meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will vote on resolutions for a minor subdivision on Hickory Street and a site plan for an office building on Lakewood Road. The board will also adopt the 2026 meeting schedule and approve professional purchase orders.

• Resolution for 2nd extension of time: Minor subdivision with variances at Hickory Street (Block 87, Lots 1-5 & 11-40)
• Resolution for preliminary & final major site plan: 3-story 11,600 sq ft office building at 1381 Lakewood Rd (Block 410.04, Lot 3 & 4)
• Adoption of 2026 meeting schedule
• Approval of purchase orders for board attorneys, planners, and engineers
• Notice: McDonald’s USA, LLC application for 1256 Indian Head Road rescheduled to November 5, 2025

The board unanimously adopted the 2026 meeting schedule. It also unanimously approved purchase orders for escrow billing and general fund billing for its attorneys, planners, and engineers. The board approved a 2% time extension for a minor subdivision with variances (File PB 23-015 Hickory Street) with four affirmative votes. The board approved a preliminary and final major site plan with variances for 1381 Lakewood Road (File PB 25-019) with four affirmative votes.

• Adopt 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approve escrow billing purchase orders for board attorneys, planners, engineers (unanimous)
• Approve general fund billing purchase orders for board attorneys (unanimous)
• Approve 2% extension of time for minor subdivision with variances, File PB 23-015 Hickory Street (4 affirmative votes)
• Approve preliminary & final major site plan with variances, File PB 25-019 1381 Lakewood Road (4 affirmative votes)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment will process escrow refund vouchers for two property owners, adopt a resolution extending time for VRE Storage LLC, and hold public hearings on three bulk‑variance applications—a garage addition on Windsor Avenue, a covered deck on Bayside Terrace, and a Starbucks drive‑thru with a digital billboard on Route 37. No testimony is expected for the three applications.

• Statutory extension of time approved for VRE Storage Toms River, LLC (Oak & Bay Ave, Block 578, Lot 14).
• Refund voucher issued to Sait Aydin (Block 794.02, Lots 1‑6, 16, 17).
• Refund voucher issued to Anthony Gingerelli (Block 724.31, Lot 14).
• Bulk variance for a 1‑story garage addition on Lot 259, 3304 Windsor Avenue (R‑75).
• Bulk variance for a Starbucks drive‑thru, digital billboard and site improvements on Lots 5.01‑5.02, 1632 NJ Route 37 (HB zone).

The Zoning Board approved escrow refund vouchers and adopted the January 9, 2025 minutes, each with seven affirmative votes. It also adopted a statutory extension of time for VRE Storage Toms River, LLC with four affirmative votes. Two variance applications – a garage addition for Philip & Diane Zranchev and a roof over a deck for Michael Pisani – were approved with seven affirmative votes each. The Starbucks and digital billboard proposal was postponed to the November 13, 2025 meeting for further testimony.

• Approved escrow refund vouchers (7 affirmative votes)
• Adopted January 9, 2025 minutes (7 affirmative votes)
• Approved VRE Storage statutory extension of time (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved garage addition variance for Zranchev (7 affirmative votes)
• Approved roof‑over‑deck variance for Pisani (7 affirmative votes)
• Postponed Starbucks and digital billboard application to Nov 13, 2025

Township Council

The Toms River Township Council will vote on a series of resolutions, including tax refund authorizations, veteran status certifications, a road restriping plan for Route 571, and agreements for Clifton Ave Park. Several contracts for police equipment and vehicles are also on the agenda, with total values ranging from $58,919 to $605,797. The meeting includes routine consent items and reports on building and recreation department revenues.

• Authorize award of contracts to Witmer Public Safety ($101,130) and Atlantic Tactical ($56,997.80) for firearms and equipment, total not to exceed $158,127.80
• Authorize purchase of one 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD for the Police Department, maximum $58,919.22
• Authorize award of contracts to upfit police vehicles, total not to exceed $605,797.18
• Support Ocean County Engineering Department plan to restripe Route 571 (Bey Lea Road) from Route 623 (Old Freehold Road) to N. Bay Avenue and add a center lane
• Enable agreement with NJ Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres Program for Clifton Ave Park

The Township Council approved the minutes from the August 27, 2025 meeting and adopted the consent agenda (excluding items J & L). It authorized a $2,155.88 tax refund to Sutton Land Title Agency and approved tax cancellations and pro‑rated refunds for five properties owned by 100% disabled veterans. The Council also supported restriping Route 571 (Bey Lea Road) and authorized levying property‑maintenance code costs as a tax lien.

• Approved August 27, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous among those present)
• Approved Consent Agenda (except J & L) (unanimous among those present)
• Approved refund of $2,155.88 to Sutton Land Title Agency (unanimous among those present)
• Approved tax cancellation and pro‑rated refund for 983 Cedar Grove Road (Block 442.51 Lot 17) (unanimous among those present)
• Approved tax cancellation and pro‑rated refund for 468 Madison Ave (Block 684.02 Lot 1) (unanimous among those present)
• Approved tax cancellation and pro‑rated refund for 3446 Jefferson Avenue (Block 1076.03 Lot 6) (unanimous among those present)
• Approved resolution supporting restriping Route 571 (Bey Lea Road) from Route 623 to N. Bay Avenue (unanimous among those present)
• Approved resolution to levy Section 111 International Property Maintenance Code costs as a tax lien (unanimous among those present)

Planning Board

The Toms River Township Planning Board will meet to act on resolutions approving several site plans and subdivisions, including a motel renovation and a mausoleum, and to consider a request for a second extension of time for a subdivision with variances.

• Resolution to approve 3rd extension of time for minor subdivision at 231 Warner St
• Resolution to approve minor site plan for 36 motel rooms at 3324 Route 37
• Resolution to approve minor site plan for 5,100 sq ft mausoleum at 1722 Silverton Road
• Resolution to approve minor site plan for driveway realignment at 954 Lakewood Road
• Request for 2nd extension of time for minor subdivision with variances at Hickory Street

The Toms River Planning Board approved multiple resolutions extending timeframes for subdivision projects and authorizing several minor site plans. It also approved a two‑year extension for a minor subdivision with variances. The board gave final approval to a preliminary and final major site plan for a three‑story office building at 1381 Lakewood Road. All motions were adopted with affirmative votes ranging from four to five members.

• Approved extension of time for preliminary & final major subdivision (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved extension of time for minor subdivision (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor site plan with variances for Shria Holdings LLC (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor site plan for Ocean County Memorial Park mausoleum (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor site plan for Woods Equity driveway realignment (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor site plan for Haza Bell expansion of walk‑in freezer (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved 2‑year extension for minor subdivision with variances (5 affirmative votes)
• Approved 3‑story office building site plan at 1381 Lakewood Road (5 affirmative votes)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a bulk variance for a property at 31 Leone Road. The board also approved a use and bulk variance for a proposed gas station and convenience store at 305 Main Street, and granted a statutory time extension for a self-storage project on Oak Avenue.

• Approved Bulk Variance for 31 Leone Road
• Approved Use & Bulk Variance for 305 Main Street
• Granted Statutory Extension for VRE Storage project
• Approved vouchers for Denise L. Sweet & Associates, LLC
• Approved vouchers for Dasti & Staiger

The Zoning Board approved a one‑year extension of the minor subdivision approval for VRE Storage of Toms River (Block 578, Oak Avenue & Bay Avenue) with six affirmative votes. It also adopted two bulk‑variance resolutions—Doug Klee (31 Leone Road) and Shia Weber/NJ Home Care Services (105 Sunset Ave)—each with four affirmative votes. All general and escrow vouchers presented were approved with six affirmative votes. The application to convert 305 Main Street to a gas station and convenience store was carried over to the October 23, 2025 meeting for further review.

• Approved VRE Storage one‑year subdivision extension (6‑0)
• Adopted bulk variance for Doug Klee‑31 Leone Road (4‑0)
• Adopted bulk variance for Shia Weber/NJ Home Care Services‑105 Sunset Ave (4‑0)
• Approved General Voucher for Denise L. Sweet & Associates, LLC (6‑0)
• Approved General Voucher for Dasti & Staiger (6‑0)
• Approved Escrow Voucher for Dasti & Staiger (6‑0)
• Approved Escrow Voucher for Remington & Vernick Engineers (6‑0)
• Approved Escrow Voucher for ARH Associates (6‑0)

Planning Board

The Toms River Township Planning Board will meet on September 3, 2025, to approve minutes from prior meetings, adopt resolutions for previously approved subdivisions, and take action on several extension requests and minor site plans. The board will also approve professional service payments for attorneys, planners, and engineers.

• Adopt resolutions for street vacation and minor subdivisions (Germania Court, 14 Martin Road, 216 Foster Road)
• Approve purchase orders for board attorneys ($ROTHSTEIN, MADELL, STROHM), planners ($ARH ASSOCIATES), and engineers ($OWEN LITTLE & ASSOCIATES)
• Consider 3rd extension request for minor subdivision at 231 Warner Street (Shore Gardens Realty LLC)
• Review minor site plan for motel renovations at 3324 Route 37 (Shria Holdings LLC)
• Act on minor site plan for mausoleum expansion at 1722 Silvertone Road (Ocean County Memorial Park)

The Planning Board unanimously approved purchase orders for board attorneys, planners, and engineers. It approved a street vacation for Dover Development Group and several minor subdivision and site‑plan applications, each receiving the required affirmative votes. All motions were adopted as recorded.

• Approved escrow billing purchase orders for board attorneys, planners, engineers (unanimous)
• Approved general fund billing purchase orders for board attorneys (unanimous)
• Approved street vacation for Dover Development Group (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor subdivision for 14 Martin LLC (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor subdivision with variances for Anthony Caramico (4 affirmative votes)
• Approved one‑year extension of time for Trestates LLC (7 affirmative votes)
• Approved extension of time for Shore Gardens Realty LLC (7 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor site plan for Shria Holdings LLC (7 affirmative votes)

Township Council

The Township Council will vote on a final reading of a bond ordinance for police department capital improvements and acquisitions. The body will also discuss vacating a portion of Pinehurst Street and establishing new traffic restrictions at Route 629/Bay Boulevard and 6th Avenue.

• Bond ordinance for Police Department capital improvements appropriating $8,906,000
• Proposed vacation of a portion of Pinehurst Street between Lakewood Road and Mountain Avenue
• Contract for CME Associates for Ortley Beach Streetscape and Gateway Treatment Project not to exceed $185,057.38
• Resolution to increase the bid threshold to $53,000.00
• Proposed no stopping or standing restrictions at Route 629/Bay Boulevard and 6th Avenue

The council approved the July 30, 2025 meeting minutes and closed public comment unanimously. It approved Item 7 with one abstention and passed the street‑vacation ordinance for Pinehurst Street (4‑Yes, 3‑No). The bond ordinance for $8.9 M of capital improvements was read but no vote was recorded.

• Approved July 30, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous yes votes)
• Closed public comment (all members voted Yes)
• Approved Item 7 (Yes: Byrne, Nivison, O'Toole, Quinlisk, Coleman, Lamb; Abstain: Ciccozzi)
• Approved Item 8 – vacated portion of Pinehurst Street between Lakewood Road (Route 9) and Mountain Avenue (4 Yes, 3 No)
• Bond ordinance for $8,906,000 capital improvements presented (no vote recorded)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment held its August 14, 2025 meeting and approved three bulk-variance appeals. Two new applications were opened for public hearings: one for a ground-level deck and ancillary improvements at 31 Leone Road, and another to convert a senior healthcare facility at 105 Sunset Avenue into a non-public high school.

• Approved bulk variance for Donald Oxley at 1944 Merrimac Drive
• Approved bulk variance for John G. Sierchio at 55 Silver Beach Road
• Approved bulk variance for Mare & Robyn Harris at 3205 Cart Lane
• Opened public hearing for Doug Klee’s deck and site improvements at 31 Leone Road (Appeal #13946)
• Opened public hearing for Shia Weber/NJ Home Care’s conversion to a non-public high school at 105 Sunset Avenue (Appeal #13918) with site plan approval sought

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three bulk‑variance appeals for residential properties and granted a use variance to convert a senior‑healthcare facility into a private high school. It also approved a deck and shed variance for a property on Leone Road. All approvals were adopted with the recorded vote counts.

• Approved bulk variance for Donald Oxley, 1944 Merrimac Drive (5 votes)
• Approved bulk variance for John G. Sierchio, 55 Silver Beach Road (5 votes)
• Approved bulk variance for Marc & Robyn Harris, 3205 Cart Lane (5 votes)
• Approved deck and shed variance for Doug Klee, 31 Leone Road (7 votes)
• Approved use variance and site‑plan for Shia Weber/NJ Home Care, 105 Sunset Avenue (7 votes)
• Adopted minutes of Dec 12 2024 meeting (7 votes)
• Approved general voucher for Denise L. Sweet Associates, LLC (7 votes)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a resolution for a self-storage and retail facility at 1127 Hooper Ave. The board will also consider two minor subdivision applications and a request to vacate Germania Court.

• Resolution for a 4-lot self-storage facility and retail project at 1127 Hooper Ave (PB 25-002)
• Street vacation request for Germania Court by Dover Development Group
• Minor subdivision application for 14 Martin Road (PB 25-028)
• Minor subdivision with variances application for 216 Foster Road (PB 25-017)

The Planning Board approved several items, including a recommendation to the Township Council to vacate a portion of Germania Court. It also adopted a resolution for a 4‑lot self‑storage and retail project at 1127 Hooper Ave, and approved two minor subdivision applications. All motions were approved by vote.

• Approved purchase orders for board professionals (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for 4‑lot self‑storage & retail at 1127 Hooper Ave (5 affirmative votes)
• Recommended street vacation of part of Germania Court to Township Council (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor subdivision for 14 Martin Road (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor subdivision with variances for 216 Foster Road (6 affirmative votes)

Township Council

The Township Council will discuss a bond ordinance for police department acquisitions and improvements. The body is also deciding on speed limit reductions on Route 527 and new hiring guidelines for police officers.

• Bond ordinance appropriating $8,906,000 for Police Department capital improvements
• Proposed speed limit reductions on Route 527/Whitesville Road from 50 mph to 45 mph and 40 mph
• Contract for recreational court repairs awarded to Shore Top Construction Corp. not to exceed $632,000
• Change order for P&A Construction Inc. adding $618,500 for the 2024 paving program
• Appointment of Captain Guy Maire as Chief of Police/Director of Law Enforcement

The council unanimously approved the June 30 meeting minutes. It then adopted an ordinance reducing speed limits on Route 527/Whitesville Road to 45 mph between State Highway 70 and Brentwood Avenue and to 40 mph between Brentwood Avenue and the Dover‑Jackson line. Finally, the council approved a new police‑officer hiring ordinance by a 4‑3 vote.

• Approve June 30 meeting minutes (unanimous yes)
• Approve speed‑limit reduction ordinance for Route 527/Whitesville Road (unanimous yes)
• Approve police hiring ordinance (4‑3 yes)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider three applications for bulk variances regarding residential additions and parking. The board will also vote on a resolution of approval for a property on Francis Drive.

• Resolution of approval for John & Ann Peck at 788 Francis Drive (Appeal #13941)
• Bulk variance for a single-story garage addition at 1944 Merrimac Drive (Appeal #13940)
• Bulk variance for a dwelling addition and parking at 55 Silver Beach Road (Appeal #13942)
• Bulk variance for a second story addition at 3205 Cart Lane (Appeal #13943)

The Zoning Board approved several financial vouchers and adopted a variance resolution for John & Ann Peck. It also approved three residential variance applications—Donald Oxley, John G. Sierchio, and Marc & Robyn Harris—with conditions, each by a vote of seven to zero. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved General Voucher for Denise L. Sweet & Associates (7 affirmative votes)
• Approved General Voucher for Dasti & Staiger (7 affirmative votes)
• Approved Escrow Voucher for Dasti & Staiger (7 affirmative votes)
• Approved Escrow Voucher for Remington & Vernick (7 affirmative votes)
• Approved Escrow Voucher for ARH Associates (7 affirmative votes)
• Adopted resolution for John & Ann Peck variance (5 affirmative votes)
• Approved Donald Oxley garage variance (7 affirmative votes)
• Approved John G. Sierchio addition variance (7 affirmative votes)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a major site plan and minor subdivision for a proposed self-storage and retail facility. The board will also act on resolutions for previously approved subdivisions and a site plan.

• Proposed self-storage facility and retail at 1127 Hooper Ave (8.35 acres)
• Resolution for minor subdivision at 659 Bay View Dr
• Resolution for pylon sign at Honda of Toms River, 346 Route 37 East
• Resolution for minor subdivision at 860 Fischer Blvd

The board approved three minor subdivision and site‑plan applications, each with six affirmative votes. It also approved SP Acquisition Associates' proposal for a self‑storage facility and retail buildings at 1127 Hooper Ave with eight affirmative votes. No public comments were received, and the meeting was adjourned at 6:30 p.m.

• Approved minor subdivision at 659 Bay View Dr (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor site plan with variances at 346 Route 37 East (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor subdivision with variances at 860 Fischer Blvd (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved SP Acquisition Associates' mixed‑use development at 1127 Hooper Ave (8 affirmative votes)
• Closed public comment period (no comments received)

Township Council

The Township Council is meeting to adopt the Calendar Year 2025 municipal budget and appoint a Registered Municipal Clerk. The body will also consider speed limit reductions on Route 527/Whitesville Road and new police hiring guidelines.

• Adoption of the Calendar Year 2025 Municipal Budget
• Proposed speed limit reductions on Route 527/Whitesville Road from 50 mph to 45 mph and 40 mph
• Contract for road drainage improvements awarded to Messercola Excavating Co., Inc. not to exceed $750,000.00
• Appointment of Stephen A. Hensel as Registered Municipal Clerk for a three-year term
• Endorsement of the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan

The Township Council unanimously approved resolutions to renew retail and club liquor licenses for the 2025‑2026 term. The council also appointed Stephen A. Hensel as municipal clerk for a three‑year term starting June 30, 2025. Earlier agenda items, including the May 28 minutes and honoring retirements, were also approved.

• Approved renewal of retail liquor licenses (Item 7) – unanimous vote
• Approved renewal of club liquor licenses (Item 8) – unanimous vote
• Appointed Stephen A. Hensel as municipal clerk (Item 9) – unanimous vote
• Approved May 28, 2025 meeting minutes (Item 5) – unanimous vote
• Approved honoring resolutions and presentations (Item 6) – unanimous vote
• Approved Item 7 motion (reporting to state agencies) – unanimous vote
• Approved Item 8 motion (reporting to state agencies) – unanimous vote

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing regarding a request to build a three-bedroom home in a Highway Business zone. The board will also review resolutions for several bulk variance applications.

• Appeal #13941: Proposed three-bedroom single family dwelling at 788 Francis Drive
• Resolution of approval: Bulk Variance for 428 8" Ave (Appeal #13936)
• Resolution of approval: Bulk Variance for 29 2"¢ Avenue (Appeal #13935)
• Resolution of approval: Bulk Variance for 3129 Creek Road (Appeal #13939)
• Resolution of denial: Use Variance and Site Plan for 415 Washington Street (Appeal #13893)

The Zoning Board approved three bulk variance appeals—Michael Carroccia, Jeffrey & Elizabeth Somerlot, and M&T Webster, LLC—with vote counts of 5‑0, 5‑0, and 6‑0 respectively. It denied Christ Church of Toms River's use (D1) variance and major site plan with a 5‑0 vote. The Board also approved a use (D1) variance for John & Ann Peck to build a single‑family home, adopting it by a 7‑0 vote and attaching conditions. No public comments were received.

• Approved Michael Carroccia bulk variance (5 affirmative votes)
• Approved Jeffrey & Elizabeth Somerlot bulk variance (5 affirmative votes)
• Approved M&T Webster, LLC bulk variance (6 affirmative votes)
• Denied Christ Church of Toms River use (D1) variance & site plan (5 affirmative votes)
• Approved John & Ann Peck single‑family dwelling use (D1) variance (7 affirmative votes)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan of the Township Master Plan. The board will also review several minor subdivision and site plan applications.

• Public hearing on the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan of the Township Master Plan
• Minor site plan for a building addition at 2373 Lakewood Road (Westwood Two, LLC)
• Minor subdivision for 2 lots at 554 Lillie Road (Dennis & Samantha Rome)
• Minor site plan for a pylon sign at 346 Route 37 East (Honda of Toms River)
• Minor subdivision for 2 lots at 860 Fischer Blvd. (G & I XI NJ Grocery Portfolio LLC)

The Toms River Planning Board approved several minor site plans and subdivisions, each with seven affirmative votes. It also adopted the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, amending the township's Master Plan. All approvals will be documented in memorializing resolutions.

• Approved Minor Site Plan for Westwood Two, LLC (7‑0)
• Approved Minor Subdivision with variances for Dennis & Samantha Rome (7‑0)
• Approved Minor Subdivision (public notice not required) for Anthony Schifilliti & Alexandra Delaney (7‑0)
• Approved Minor Site Plan with variances for Honda of Toms River (7‑0)
• Approved Minor Subdivision with variances for G &IXINJ Grocery Portfolio LLC (7‑0)
• Adopted Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan (7‑0)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider several bulk variance requests for residential improvements. The board is also scheduled to vote on a site plan for a homeless shelter addition at 415 Washington Street.

• Vote on a 949 SF, 17-bed homeless shelter addition at Christ Church of Toms River (415 Washington Street)
• Bulk variance for in-ground pool and patio at 428 8 Avenue
• Bulk variance for a third-story addition at 29 2nd Avenue
• Bulk variance for an in-ground pool at 3129 Creek Road
• Escrow refund for Michael Deem, Block 434.44, Lot 5

The Board approved escrow vouchers for three contractors and a refund voucher, each with seven affirmative votes. Three new development applications – a pool and deck for Michael Carroccia, a third‑story addition for Jeffrey & Elizabeth Somerlot, and a pool for M&T Webster – were approved with seven votes each. The proposed homeless shelter addition by Christ Church of Toms River was denied after five members voted against approval. The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:40 pm.

• Approved escrow voucher for Dasti & Staiger (7 votes)
• Approved escrow voucher for Remington & Vernick Engineers (7 votes)
• Approved escrow voucher for ARH Associates (7 votes)
• Approved refund voucher for Michael Deem (7 votes)
• Approved Michael Carroccia pool/deck variance (7 votes)
• Approved Jeffrey & Elizabeth Somerlot third‑story addition (7 votes)
• Approved M&T Webster pool variance (7 votes)
• Denied Christ Church homeless shelter addition (5 votes against)

Planning Board

The Toms River Township Planning Board will consider a building addition at 2373 Lakewood Road and a two-lot subdivision at 554 Lillie Road. The board will also vote on resolutions for previously approved projects on Sachs Ave and Route 37 East.

• Resolution for minor subdivision extension: 2159 & 2143 Sachs Ave
• Resolution for auto repair facility site plan: 2032 Route 37 East
• Minor site plan for building addition: 2373 Lakewood Road
• Minor subdivision for 2 lots: 554 Lillie Road

The board unanimously approved several purchase orders for board professionals. It adopted two resolutions—an extension of time for a minor subdivision and a major site plan with variances—each with seven affirmative votes. The board also approved a minor site‑plan addition and a minor subdivision with variances, both with eight affirmative votes.

• Approved escrow billing purchase orders for board professionals – unanimous vote
• Approved general fund purchase order for board court reporter – unanimous vote
• Adopted resolution extending time for a minor subdivision (PB 24-020) – 7 affirmative votes
• Adopted resolution for preliminary & final major site plan with variances (PB 25-006) – 7 affirmative votes
• Approved minor site‑plan addition at 2373 Lakewood Road – 8 affirmative votes
• Approved minor subdivision with variances at 554 Lillie Road – 8 affirmative votes

Township Council

The Township Council will hold its regular meeting with procedural items followed by final readings on an ordinance applying Title 39 rules to Southwinds Homeowners Association. Multiple resolutions will decide the 2025 municipal budget, waive local review, and approve a $185,057.30 state grant modification for the Ortley Beach Streetscape and Gateway Treatment Project. Several consent items include tax refunds, a liquor license transfer, and police department contracts.

• Final reading of ordinance making Title 39 applicable to Southwinds Homeowners Association
• 2025 municipal budget introduction and approval
• Waiver of local review for the township budget
• Ortley Beach Streetscape and Gateway Treatment Project federal reimbursement modification for $185,057.30
• Normandy Beach Road resurfacing contract awarded to Earle Asphalt Company for $208,513.13

The Township Council approved the April 30, 2025 meeting minutes, a resolution honoring National EMS Week, and an ordinance applying Title 39 to the Southwinds Homeowners Association. It also waived local review of the 2025 budget, authorized the budget to be read by title only, adopted the 2025 municipal budget, and approved the 2025 Special Improvement District budget. Additional tax‑refund resolutions for duplicate tax payments were approved as part of the consent agenda.

• Approved April 30, 2025 meeting minutes (7 Yes)
• Approved honoring resolution for National EMS Week (7 Yes)
• Approved ordinance applying Title 39 to Southwinds Homeowners Association I (7 Yes)
• Approved resolution waiving local review of the 2025 budget (5 Yes, 2 Abstain)
• Approved resolution authorizing reading of the 2025 budget by title only (5 Yes, 2 Abstain)
• Approved the 2025 municipal budget (6 Yes, 1 Abstain)
• Approved the 2025 Special Improvement District budget (7 Yes)
• Approved tax‑refund resolutions for overpayments on several properties (consent agenda) (7 Yes)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will continue a public hearing regarding a site plan for Christ Church of Toms River. The applicant is seeking a use variance to build a 949 SF homeless shelter addition with 17 beds.

• Appeal #13893: Proposed 949 SF homeless shelter addition with 17 beds at 415 Washington Street
• Request for Use (D1) Variance and Bulk Variance for the R-150 zone
• Proposed parking of 115 spaces against a requirement/permit of 183 spaces

The Zoning Board considered a D1 variance and site plan for a 949‑sq‑ft homeless shelter addition at 415 Washington Street (Block 687, Lot 16, R‑150 zone). After extensive public comment, the Board did not vote on approval but instead carried the application to the June 12, 2025 meeting for closing summations by the applicant and objectors. No vote tally was recorded.

• Carried Christ Church homeless shelter variance application to June 12, 2025

Planning Board

The regularly scheduled May 21, 2025 Planning Board meeting for Toms River Township has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for June 4, 2025.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet to approve resolutions for several bulk variance applications. The board will also handle payment vouchers and review minutes from the November 14, 2024 meeting.

• Bulk Variance approval for Michael & Richard Stanzione at 14A Haines Cove Drive
• Bulk Variance approval for Linda Blatt at 33 Fifth Avenue
• Bulk Variance approval for Skora Team, LLC at 2105 First Avenue
• Bulk Variance approval for Thomas Spinelli & Donna Mazzaferro at 502 Bay View Drive
• Payment vouchers for Denise L. Sweet & Associates, LLC, Dasti & Staiger, and Remington & Vernick Engineers

The Zoning Board adopted four bulk‑variance appeals, each passing with three affirmative votes. It also approved three payment vouchers—two general vouchers and one escrow voucher—with vote totals of five, four, and five affirmative votes respectively. All actions were taken during the May 8, 2025 meeting.

• Approved bulk variance for Michael & Richard Stanzione, 14A Haines Cove Dr (3 votes)
• Approved bulk variance for Linda Blatt, 33 Fifth Ave (3 votes)
• Approved bulk variance for Skora Team, LLC, 2105 First Ave (3 votes)
• Approved bulk variance for Thomas Spinelli & Donna Mazzaferro, 502 Bay View Dr (3 votes)
• Approved general voucher for Denise L. Sweet & Associates, LLC (5 votes)
• Approved general voucher for Dasti & Staiger (4 votes)
• Approved escrow voucher for Remington & Vernick Engineers (5 votes)
• Approved minutes of the November 14, 2024 meeting (5 votes)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a major site plan for an automotive repair facility and a subdivision time extension. The board will also act on resolutions for a street vacation and two subdivision approvals.

• Preliminary and final major site plan for an automotive repair facility at 2032 Route 37 East
• Resolution for street vacation of Pinehurst Street (Mark Properties LLC)
• Minor subdivision resolution for 1680 Feldmus Lane (Lipa Kellner)
• Extension of time resolution for a 15-lot subdivision at 830 W. Briar Ave (Clearbrook Homes, LLC)
• Request for extension of time for a minor subdivision at 2159 & 2143 Sachs Ave

The Planning Board approved several pending resolutions, including a street vacation for Pinehurst Street, a minor subdivision, and an extension of time for a major subdivision. It also approved an extension of time for a minor subdivision and a preliminary and final major site plan with variances for an automotive repair facility. All motions were adopted with either four or seven affirmative votes.

• Approved Pinehurst Street street vacation (four affirmative votes)
• Approved minor subdivision (four affirmative votes)
• Approved extension of time for a preliminary & final major subdivision with variances (four affirmative votes)
• Approved six‑month extension of time for a minor subdivision (seven affirmative votes)
• Approved preliminary & final major site plan with variances for automotive service center (seven affirmative votes)

Township Council

The Township Council will hold final readings on several traffic ordinances, including speed limit reductions on Windsor, Grand, and Lexington Avenues, and stop sign changes at Indian Hill Road. A first-reading ordinance authorizes the acquisition, by purchase or eminent domain, of six properties at 415 Washington Street and multiple East Water Street addresses. The consent agenda includes contract awards, such as plumber services not to exceed $150,000, and amendments to the affordable housing spending plan.

• Ordinance authorizing acquisition by purchase or eminent domain of 415 Washington St and five properties on East Water St
• Speed limit reduction on Windsor Avenue (30 to 25 mph between Princess Ct and Vaughn Ave; 40 to 35 mph on other segment; 30 to 25 mph to eastern terminus)
• Speed limit reductions on Grand Avenue (35 to 25 mph) and Lexington Avenue (30 to 25 mph) for entire lengths
• Replacement of yield signs with flashing stop signs at Indian Hill Road and Carol Drive and at Indian Hill Road and Roundtree Drive
• Award of two-year open-ended contract for licensed plumber services to Timothy Peters Plumbing & Heating, not to exceed $150,000

The Township Council unanimously approved the March 26 meeting minutes and adopted two proclamations honoring National Poppy Day and the Toms River High School North marching band. The council also approved three traffic ordinances: designating Hancock Road as a through street, reducing speed limits on Windsor Avenue, and replacing yield signs with flashing stop signs at Indian Hill Road intersections. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Approved March 26 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted National Poppy Day proclamation (unanimous)
• Adopted Toms River High School North marching band proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance designating Hancock Road as a through street (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance reducing Windsor Avenue speed limits (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance installing flashing stop signs at Indian Hill Road intersections (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will open public hearings on four new bulk variance applications and continue a pending case that was carried for a site inspection. Applicants seek variances for a new two-story home on a substandard lot, two in-ground pools, and a shed with multiple setback violations. The board will also approve vouchers for professional services and minutes from a prior meeting.

• Continued case: Michael & Richard Stanzione – legitimize shed at 14A Haines Cove Drive with variances for rear, water’s edge, and side setbacks
• New application: Linda Blatt – in-ground pool at 33 Fifth Avenue requiring setback variances for pool, equipment, and fence
• New application: Skora Team, LLC – new two-story dwelling at 2105 First Avenue with variances for lot area, lot width, side yard, and combined yard setbacks
• New application: Thomas Spinelli & Donna Mazzaferro – in-ground pool, paver patio, and driveway at 502 Bay View Drive requiring front yard and fencing variances

The Toms River Zoning Board approved four residential variance requests and three voucher payments, each with five affirmative votes. The board also approved the October 24, 2024 meeting minutes with seven votes. All motions were made by Mr. Luthman and seconded by Ms. Tormollan.

• Approved General Voucher for Denise L. Sweet & Associates, LLC (5 votes)
• Approved Escrow Voucher for Dasti & Staiger (5 votes)
• Approved Escrow Voucher for ARH Associates (5 votes)
• Approved Refund Voucher for Daniel Arthur, Block 1097.02, Lot 147 (5 votes)
• Approved Board of Adjustment minutes for Oct 24, 2024 meeting (7 votes)
• Approved shed variance for Michael & Richard Stanzione (5 votes)
• Approved pool variance for Linda Blatt (5 votes)
• Approved two‑story dwelling variance for Skora Team, LLC (5 votes)

Planning Board

The Toms River Planning Board will adopt resolutions for previously approved major site plans for contractor warehouses at 673 Batchelor Street (4,320 sq ft) and 1205 Bay Avenue (6,416 sq ft), and a minor subdivision into three lots at 553 Lillie Road. The board will also hear a recommendation to the township council to vacate Pinehurst Street for Mark Properties LLC. New applications include a minor subdivision at 1680 Feldmus Lane and a request for a third extension of time for a 15-lot subdivision at 830 W. Briar Avenue.

• Resolution of approval for 4,320 sq ft contractor warehouse at 673 Batchelor Street (PB 24-017)
• Resolution of approval for 6,416 sq ft contractor warehouse at 1205 Bay Avenue (PB 24-039)
• Resolution of approval for minor subdivision into 3 lots at 553 Lillie Road (PB 25-004)
• Recommendation to council to vacate Pinehurst Street for Mark Properties LLC (Block 157, Lots 11-42)
• Public hearing on minor subdivision for Lipa Kellner at 1680 Feldmus Lane (2 lots) and extension request for Clearbrook Homes at 830 W. Briar Avenue (15 lots)

The board approved several development resolutions, including two major site plans with variances, a minor subdivision with variances, and a minor subdivision without public notice. It also approved purchase orders for board professionals and recommended that the Township Council vacate a segment of Pinehurst Street. All actions were approved by six affirmative votes.

• Approved purchase orders for board professionals (unanimous)
• Approved 673 Batchelor St major site plan with variances (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved NAR‑Palm Development major site plan with variances (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved Bash Properties minor subdivision with variances (6 affirmative votes)
• Recommended street vacation for portion of Pinehurst St (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved Lipa Kellner minor subdivision (no public notice required) (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved Clearbrook Homes one‑year extension for major subdivision with variances (6 affirmative votes)
• Approved minor subdivision at Feldmus Lane (6 affirmative votes)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will review a proposal for a 949 SF homeless shelter addition with 17 beds at 415 Washington Street. The board will also hear a request to legitimize an existing shed at 14A Haines Cove Drive.

• Appeal #13893: Proposed 949 SF homeless shelter addition with 17 beds at 415 Washington Street
• Appeal #13930: Bulk variance for an existing shed at 14A Haines Cove Drive
• Resolution of approval for Brandon Fennell & CD Williams at 1146 Federal Way
• Payment vouchers for Dasti & Staiger, Remington & Vernick Engineers, and ARH Associates

The Zoning Board approved several payment vouchers, each with seven affirmative votes. It adopted a resolution granting a bulk variance for 1146 Federal Way, Block 730, Lot 12 (Appeal #13931). The board carried forward two pending applications—a shed variance on Haines Cove Drive and a homeless shelter at 415 Washington Street—to future meetings for further review.

• Approved general voucher for Dasti & Staiger (7 votes)
• Approved escrow voucher for Remington & Vernick Engineers (7 votes)
• Approved escrow voucher for ARH Associates (7 votes)
• Approved escrow refund voucher for Edward Gabrielski (7 votes)
• Approved minutes of Sep 26, 2024 & Oct 10, 2024 meetings (7 votes)
• Adopted bulk variance for 1146 Federal Way, Block 730, Lot 12 (7 votes)
• Carried forward shed variance application (Michael & Richard Stanzione) to April 24, 2025
• Carried forward homeless shelter application (Christ Church) to May 22, 2025

Planning Board

The Toms River Township Planning Board meeting scheduled for April 2, 2025, has been cancelled. The next regularly scheduled meeting will take place on April 19, 2025. No agenda items were discussed or decided.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing regarding a bulk variance for a proposed in-ground pool at 1146 Federal Way. The board will also vote on resolutions of approval for previous applications.

• Public hearing for 1146 Federal Way (Appeal #13931) regarding pool and fence setbacks
• Resolution of approval for 220 Second Ave (Appeal #13921)
• Resolution of approval for 798 Tunney Point Drive (Appeal #13927)
• Amended resolution of approval for 478 Lakehurst Road (Appeal #13907)

The Toms River Zoning Board approved three bulk variances and one new application for an in-ground pool. The pool variance at 1146 Federal Way was approved with conditions, including a revised drainage plan. All resolutions passed with six or seven affirmative votes.

• Approved bulk variance for Stephen & Debra Skaar at 220 Second Avenue (6-0)
• Approved bulk variance for Edward & Dorothy Davies at 798 Tunney Point Drive (6-0)
• Approved amended bulk variance for 478 Lakehurst Road, LLC (6-0)
• Approved pool variance for Brandon Fennell & CD Williams at 1146 Federal Way (7-0)

Township Council

The Township Council will hold first readings on several traffic ordinances amending speed limits and intersection controls. Resolutions include introducing the 2025 Special Improvement District budget and withdrawing from the Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program to seek compliance for fourth-round obligations. A consent agenda covers numerous contracts, tax refunds, grants, and other routine approvals.

• Resolution to withdraw from Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program and seek compliance for 2025-2035 round
• Introduction of 2025 Special Improvement District budget with public hearing date
• Ordinances reducing speed limits on Windsor Avenue, Grand Avenue, and Lexington Avenue
• Contract for Titleist golf equipment up to $42,000 (Acushnet Company)
• Contract for sporting goods up to $90,000 (School Specialty Inc.)

The Township Council unanimously approved the February 26 meeting minutes and a resolution honoring Toms River High School North's football championship. It also approved five traffic‑related ordinances: designating Hancock Road as a through street, reducing speed limits on Windsor Avenue, removing yield signs and installing flashing stop signs at Indian Hill Road intersections, and adding flashing stop signs and stop bars at Gilford Avenue intersections. All motions passed with a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved February 26, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved honoring resolutions & presentations for high‑school football champions (7-0)
• Approved Hancock Road as a through street with stop signs (7-0)
• Approved Windsor Avenue speed limit reductions to 25‑35 mph (7-0)
• Approved removal of yield signs and installation of flashing stop signs at Indian Hill Rd & Carol Drive and Indian Hill Rd & Roundtree Drive (7-0)
• Approved flashing stop sign and stop bar at Gilford Ave & Anthony Ave (7-0)
• Approved stop bar at Gilford Ave & Morris Blvd (7-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will vote on resolutions for a subdivision extension and a contractor warehouse. The board will also hear applications for another contractor warehouse and a three-lot residential subdivision.

• Resolution for 2nd extension of time for minor subdivision at 231 Warners Street
• Resolution for major site plan for a 4,320 sq ft contractor warehouse at 673 Bachelor Street
• Application for a 6,416 sq ft contractor warehouse at 1205 Bay Avenue
• Application for a minor subdivision of 3 lots at 553 Lillie Road

The board approved a two‑month extension of time for a minor subdivision by Shore Gardens Realty LLC. It also approved a preliminary and final major site plan with variances for NAR‑PALM Development LLC. Finally, the board approved a minor subdivision with variances for Bash Properties LLC. Each motion passed with seven affirmative votes and no dissent.

• Approved 2‑month extension for Shore Gardens Realty LLC minor subdivision (7‑0)
• Approved NAR‑PALM Development LLC major site plan with variances (7‑0)
• Approved Bash Properties LLC minor subdivision with variances (7‑0)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will review applications for residential additions and variances. The board is continuing a hearing for a proposed 17-bed homeless shelter addition at Christ Church of Toms River, which is not permitted in its current zone.

• Proposed 949 SF, 17-bed homeless shelter addition at 415 Washington Street
• Bulk variance for 2-story addition at 220 Second Avenue
• Bulk variances for additions and structures at 798 Tunney Point Drive
• Approval resolution for Use (D2) and Minor Site Plan at 1907 Route 35 Northbound
• Denial resolution for Use (D4 FAR) and Bulk Variance at 13 Sixth Terrace

The Toms River Zoning Board approved four bulk variance resolutions and one amended resolution, denied one use/bulk variance, and approved two new applications for home additions. The Christ Church homeless shelter application was carried to April 10, 2025, for further testimony. All votes were recorded as affirmative with specific tallies.

• Approved bulk variance for Joseph & Donna Romano at 3147 Creek Road (6-0)
• Approved bulk variance for Terry & Margaret Scott at 31 Crane Way (6-0)
• Approved bulk variance for James O'Connell at 38 Rico Ave (6-0)
• Approved use/bulk variance & minor site plan for Christopher Markey at 1907 Route 35 Northbound (6-0)
• Denied use/bulk variance for Barry & Jill Trabb at 13 Sixth Terrace (4-0)
• Approved amended bulk variance for Breton Development at 2 Breton Harbor's Drive (6-0)
• Approved 2nd story addition for Stephen & Debra Skaar at 220 Second Avenue (7-0)
• Approved 1.5 story addition for Edward & Dorothea Davies at 798 Tunney Point Drive (7-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a request for a second extension of time for a minor subdivision at 231 Warners Street, and hold public hearings for two preliminary and final major site plans with variances for contractor warehouses at 1205 Bay Avenue and 673 Batchelor Street. The board will also adopt resolutions approving a minor site plan with variances for a coffee drive-thru at 1658 Hooper Avenue and a minor subdivision with variances at 2055 Route 37 and 555 Buermann Avenue, both approved at the February 19 meeting.

• Second extension request for Shore Gardens Realty LLC minor subdivision at 231 Warners Street
• Preliminary & final major site plan with variances – NAR-PALM Development LLC for 6,416 sq ft contractor warehouse at 1205 Bay Avenue
• Preliminary & final major site plan with variances – 673 Batchelor Street LLC for 4,320 sq ft contractor warehouse at 673 Batchelor Street
• Resolution of approval for minor site plan with variances – G7B LLC for 510 sq ft coffee drive-thru at 1658 Hooper Avenue
• Resolution of approval for minor subdivision with variances – Renata Mycek for 3 lots at 2055 Route 37 and 555 Buermann Avenue

The Toms River Planning Board approved a preliminary and final major site plan for a 4,320 sq ft contractor warehouse at 673 Batchelor Street, and granted a one-year extension for a minor subdivision at 231 Warners Street. The board also adopted resolutions for a coffee drive-thru at 1658 Hooper Avenue and a 3-lot subdivision at 2055 Route 37. A separate warehouse application at 1205 Bay Avenue was carried to the March 19 meeting because the applicant lacked a planner to testify on variances.

• Approved preliminary & final major site plan for 4,320 sq ft contractor warehouse at 673 Batchelor Street (8-0)
• Granted 1-year extension for minor subdivision at 231 Warners Street (8-0)
• Adopted resolution for 510 sq ft coffee drive-thru at 1658 Hooper Avenue (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for 3-lot minor subdivision at 2055 Route 37 & 555 Buermann Ave (7-0)
• Carried 6,416 sq ft contractor warehouse application at 1205 Bay Avenue to March 19 meeting
• Approved purchase orders for board professionals (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on five new applications for bulk and use variances, including a proposal to expand a non-conforming restaurant use at 1907 Route 35. The board also will vote on resolutions to appoint its attorney, engineer, and planners for 2025.

• Christopher Markey seeks approval to add a two-story residential addition over an existing restaurant at 1907 Route 35 Northbound (non-conforming use expansion).
• Barry & Jill Trabb propose a new two-story home with variances for side yard, floor area, and building coverage at 13 Sixth Terrace.
• Joseph & Donna Romano request variances to demolish and rebuild a home at 3147 Creek Road with reduced setbacks and a deck closer to the water.
• Terry & Margaret Scott seek a front-yard setback variance for a new three-story dwelling at 31 Crane Way.
• Appointments of Dasti & Staiger as board attorney, Remington & Vernick as engineer, and ARH Associates as planner for calendar year 2025.

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment met on February 27, 2025, and approved five of six new applications, including variances for home reconstructions and additions. One application, for a new two-story home at 13 Sixth Terrace, was denied due to concerns about size and consistency with the neighborhood. The board also adopted resolutions for prior approvals and reappointed its attorney, engineer, and planner for 2025.

• Approved use and bulk variance for Thomas & Nora Veca at 1829 Ocean Road (6-0)
• Approved bulk variance for Ronald & Lorraine Dario at 302 West Bay View Drive (6-0)
• Approved preliminary and final major site plan for Garvey & Delli Santi, LLC at 9 Raymond Avenue (6-0)
• Reappointed Dasti & Staiger as Zoning Board Attorney for 2025 (6-0)
• Reappointed Remington & Vernick Engineers as Zoning Board Engineer for 2025 (6-0)
• Reappointed ARH Associates as Zoning Board Planner for 2025 (6-0)
• Denied application for new home at 13 Sixth Terrace (5-0)
• Approved applications for new homes at 3147 Creek Road, 31 Crane Way, pool at 38 Rico Ave, and addition at 1907 Route 35 (7-0 each)

Township Council

The Toms River Township Council will hold a regular meeting to vote on two ordinances: one reducing speed limits on Garfield Avenue and another amending land use regulations for engineering and survey requirements. The council will also consider endorsing 'Revolution NJ' for the 250th anniversary and approve a consent agenda containing various contracts, tax refunds, and an affordable housing consent order.

• Ordinance to reduce speed limits on Garfield Avenue between Riverside Drive and Route 37, and between Route 37 and Cottonwood Drive (final reading)
• Ordinance amending Chapter 348 to increase minimum area for requiring engineering, grading, drainage and survey (final reading)
• Resolution authorizing purchase of wireless devices and services for township and police from T-Mobile, not to exceed $231,600
• Resolution to purchase three electric lifts for Police Department garage from Hoffman Services, not to exceed $50,470
• Resolution authorizing execution of consent order for Township's fair share obligation for affordable housing during the third round

The Toms River Township Council approved a final-reading ordinance reducing speed limits on Garfield Avenue to 25-30 mph to enhance safety. The council also approved a consent agenda that included tax refunds, new taxi and massage licenses, and a $231,600 T-Mobile contract for police and township wireless services. A resolution endorsing RevolutionNJ and authorizing the Historic Preservation Commission to plan 250th anniversary events was also passed.

• Approved Garfield Avenue speed limit reduction to 25-30 mph (6-0, Ciccozzi abstained)
• Approved RevolutionNJ 250th anniversary resolution (7-0)
• Approved $66,464.30 in tax refunds for overpayments and appeals
• Approved $231,600 T-Mobile wireless contract for police and township (24 months)
• Approved $50,470 purchase of 3 electric lifts for police garage
• Approved 2025 software maintenance contract with Edmunds Govtech ($66,795.57)
• Approved consent agenda with exceptions of items R, U, V, X (7-0)
• Approved 2025 temporary budget amendment (7-0)

Planning Board

The Toms River Township Planning Board will approve resolutions for 2025 officers and professional appointments, and receive updates on previously decided land-use cases. No new zoning changes or major projects are on the agenda for this meeting.

• Appointment of Owen Little & Associates as Planning Board Engineers for 2025
• Appointment of Rothstein, Mandell, Strohm, Halm & Cipriani as Planning Board Attorney for 2025
• Appointment of ARH Associates as Planning Board Planner for 2025
• Approval of minor subdivision at 1607 Bay Avenue (Walter Kosenski Block 1098.33)
• Denial of preliminary & final major site plan for 1381 Lakewood Road (1381 Lakewood Road LLC) at February 5 meeting

The Toms River Planning Board approved a minor site plan for a 510 sq ft drive-through coffee shop at 1658 Hooper Avenue, with variances for signage, and a minor subdivision at 2055 Route 37 & 555 Buermann Avenue to create three lots. Both applications were approved with seven affirmative votes. The board also adopted seven resolutions for 2025 officers and professional appointments, and denied a major site plan for two office buildings at 1381 Lakewood Road, requiring the applicant to file a new application.

• Approved minor site plan for 510 sq ft coffee drive-thru at 1658 Hooper Avenue (7-0)
• Approved minor subdivision to create 3 lots at 2055 Route 37 & 555 Buermann Avenue (7-0)
• Adopted resolutions for 2025 officers and appointments (6-0)
• Denied preliminary & final major site plan for two office buildings at 1381 Lakewood Road (6-0)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on three new variance applications, though no testimony has been taken yet. The board will also appoint professionals for 2025, approve vouchers, and adopt resolutions for previously approved cases including a bulk variance and a minor subdivision. One prior application is carried to March due to insufficient service.

• Appeal #13919: Garvey & Delli Santi LLC seeks preliminary and final major site plan approval to renovate a building at 9 Raymond Ave for a landscaping contractor yard, a use not permitted in the Light Industrial zone; use and bulk variance previously granted (Resolution #2024-17).
• Appeal #13922: Thomas & Nora Veca seek use and bulk variances to add a second-story addition with exterior elevator and balconies at 1829 Ocean Terrace; proposed floor area ratio 0.83 vs. 0.8 permitted.
• Appeal #13923: Ronald & Lorraine Dario seek bulk variances for a deck and semi-in-ground pool at 302 West Bay View Drive; multiple setback variances proposed including front yard (0 ft proposed vs. 20 ft required).
• Stephen & Debra Skaar's bulk variance application for 220 Second Ave (Block 989, Lots 37,38) carried to March 13, 2025 due to insufficient service.
• Board will appoint zoning board attorney, engineer, planner, conflict attorney, conflict planner, and assistant secretary for 2025.

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three new applications: a second-story addition at 1829 Ocean Terrace, a deck and pool at 302 West Bay View Drive, and a landscaping contractor yard at 9 Raymond Ave. The board also appointed its 2025 professionals (attorney, engineer, planner, conflict attorney, conflict planner, assistant secretary) and approved vouchers and minutes. One application (Stephen & Debra Skaar) was carried to March 13, 2025 due to insufficient service.

• Approved 2nd-story addition at 1829 Ocean Terrace (7-0)
• Approved deck and pool at 302 West Bay View Drive (7-0)
• Approved landscaping contractor yard at 9 Raymond Ave (7-0)
• Appointed Dasti & Staiger as Zoning Board Attorney (7-0)
• Appointed Remington & Vernick as Zoning Board Engineer (7-0)
• Appointed ARH Associates as Zoning Board Planner (7-0)
• Appointed CME Associates as Conflict Planner (7-0)
• Carried Skaar bulk variance to March 13, 2025 for insufficient service

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct its annual reorganization to appoint board professionals for the 2025 calendar year. The board will also act on resolutions for previously approved projects and hear applications for a minor subdivision and a major site plan.

• Appointment of 2025 Board Attorney, Engineer, Planner, Conflict Attorney, Conflict Planner, and Court Reporter
• Resolution for Verizon Wireless temporary cell tower at 3131 Rt 35 NB
• Resolution for minor subdivision at 1635 Bay Blvd & 400 Tunney Ave
• Resolution for minor subdivision at 1602 Old Freehold Road
• Major site plan application for two 6,500 sq ft office buildings at 1381 Lakewood Road

The Toms River Planning Board denied a preliminary and final major site plan for two office buildings at 1381 Lakewood Road, despite testimony from the applicant's professionals. The board also approved several resolutions for prior approvals, including a Verizon cell tower extension and two minor subdivisions, and recommended an ordinance to the Township Council regarding engineering requirements for accessory structures.

• Denied preliminary & final major site plan for two office buildings at 1381 Lakewood Road (8-0)
• Approved resolution for Verizon Wireless temporary cell tower extension at 3131 RT 35 (7-0)
• Approved resolution for Caruso minor subdivision/lot line adjustment at 1635 Bay Blvd & 400 Tunney Ave (7-0)
• Approved resolution for 1602 Old Freehold Holdings minor subdivision at 1602 Old Freehold Road (7-0)
• Recommended Township Council adopt ordinance increasing minimum area for engineering/grading/drainage/survey requirements (unanimous)
• Approved Walter Kosenski minor subdivision at 1607 Bay Avenue (8-0)
• Approved purchase orders for payment to board professionals (unanimous)
• Appointed board professionals for 2025 (attorney, engineer, planner, conflict attorney, conflict planner, court reporter) (8-0)

Township Council

The Township Council will discuss reducing speed limits on Garfield Avenue and increasing the minimum area required for engineering and drainage surveys. The body is also deciding on several contracts, grant applications, and affordable housing calculations.

• Proposed speed limit reductions on Garfield Avenue between Riverside Drive and Cottonwood Drive
• Grant of $120,000.00 from Ocean County for Senior Services and Caregivers
• Police Department software maintenance contract with Motorola Solutions, Inc. for $158,808.10
• Municipal Prosecutor appointments for Kim A. Pascarella and Ian Goldman, not to exceed $97,000.00 each
• Resolution rejecting the NJ Department of Community Affair’s affordable housing obligation calculations

The Township Council approved a resolution rejecting the NJ Department of Community Affairs' non-binding calculation of the township's affordable housing obligation and adopting its own numbers: a Present Need of 526 units and a Prospective Need of 114 units, versus the DCA's 670 new construction units. The council also approved first readings of ordinances to reduce speed limits on Garfield Avenue and to increase the minimum area for engineering, grading, drainage, and survey requirements. A consent agenda was approved, including contracts for animal control, legal services, and various grants, with a few items pulled for separate votes.

• Adopted affordable housing obligation of 526 present need and 114 prospective need units, rejecting DCA's 670-unit calculation (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance reducing speed limits on Garfield Avenue (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance increasing minimum area for engineering, grading, drainage, and survey requirements (6-0)
• Awarded animal control contract to A-Academy Termite & Pest Control (4-2)
• Appointed Kim A. Pascarella and Ian Goldman as Municipal Prosecutors, each up to $97,000 (6-0)
• Appointed Kim A. Pascarella to Municipal Utilities Authority for term through Feb 1, 2030 (5-1)
• Approved $120,000 Ocean County grant for senior services and caregivers (consent agenda)
• Authorized Green Acres grant applications for Jake's Law Clifton Ave Park Playground and Deer Hollow Park (consent agenda)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment will approve resolutions for two previously approved variances, appoint a court reporter and elect officers for 2025, open public hearings on new applications for a bulk variance and a minor subdivision, and continue a pending application for a 17-bed homeless shelter addition at Christ Church. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and the annual report.

• Approve resolutions for Breton Development (bulk variance) and 1548 Lakewood Road (use variance and minor site plan)
• Appoint Denise L. Sweet & Associates as Zoning Board Court Reporter for 2025
• New application: Alec Claudio seeks bulk variance for deck setbacks at 3317 Teal Lane
• New application: Dover Summit Associates seeks minor subdivision on West Whitty Road and Lakewood Road
• Continued hearing: Christ Church homeless shelter addition (17 beds) with parking deficit of 68 spaces

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment approved several resolutions and applications, including a bulk variance for a property at 2 Breton Harbor's Drive and a use variance and minor site plan for 1548 Lakewood Road. A new single-family dwelling at 3317 Teal Lane and a lot consolidation on West Whitty Road were also approved. The board carried a homeless shelter application for Christ Church to a future meeting.

• Approved bulk variance for 2 Breton Harbor's Drive (5-0)
• Approved use variance and minor site plan for 1548 Lakewood Road (5-0)
• Approved new single-family dwelling at 3317 Teal Lane (6-0)
• Approved lot consolidation and minor subdivision on West Whitty Road (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Annual Report (6-0)
• Approved court reporter appointment for 2025 (6-0)
• Approved election of officers for 2025 (6-0)
• Carried homeless shelter application for Christ Church to March 13, 2025

Planning Board

The Toms River Planning Board will hold a reorganization meeting and consider three applications requiring public notice: a request by Verizon Wireless for an extension of a prior conditional-use approval for a temporary cell tower at 3131 Route 35 NB; a minor subdivision/lot-line adjustment with variances by John & Maria Caruso at 1635 Bay Blvd and 400 Tunney Ave; and a minor subdivision with variances by 1602 Old Freehold Holdings, LLC at 1602 Old Freehold Road. The board will also approve resolutions for previously approved projects and authorize escrow and general fund payments to board professionals.

• Conditional-use extension request by Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless for a temporary cell tower at 3131 Route 35 NB (Block 944.31, Lot 12, GB zone)
• Minor subdivision/lot-line adjustment with variances by John & Maria Caruso for properties at 1635 Bay Blvd and 400 Tunney Ave (Block 1098.40 & 1098.41, R-40W zone)
• Minor subdivision with variances by 1602 Old Freehold Holdings, LLC for a 1.248-acre lot at 1602 Old Freehold Road, proposing 2 lots (Block 410, Lot 68, R-200 zone)
• Resolution of approval for an extension of preliminary & final major site plan with variances for an 8,434 sq ft addition at 2363 Lakewood Road (Block 159, Lot 6.04, RHB zone)
• Resolution of approval for a minor subdivision by Challoner Investments LLC creating 2 lots at 658 Vaughn Avenue (Block 386, Lot 29, R-120 zone)

The Toms River Planning Board approved a request by Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless to extend approval for a temporary 70-foot cell tower at 3131 Route 35 North, from May 1, 2025 to November 30, 2026. The board also approved a minor subdivision for John & Maria Caruso involving a lot line adjustment, and a minor subdivision for 1602 Old Freehold Holdings, LLC to create two building lots. All approvals were unanimous with nine affirmative votes.

• Approved Verizon Wireless temporary cell tower extension (9-0)
• Approved Caruso minor subdivision/lot line adjustment (9-0)
• Approved 1602 Old Freehold Holdings minor subdivision (9-0)
• Adopted resolution for 2363 Lakewood Road site plan extension (8-0)
• Adopted resolution for Challoner Investments minor subdivision (8-0)
• Elected Nizzardo as Chairman, Bernhardt as Vice Chairman, Lynch as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved purchase orders for board professionals (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment will reorganize by electing a chairperson, vice chairperson, and secretary for 2025, and appoint a court reporter. The board will hold public hearings on a bulk variance for a single-family home on Breton Harbor's Drive and a use variance to convert a former restaurant equipment supply facility into a pharmacy at 2008 Lakewood Road. A previously heard application for a bulk variance at 52 Ocean Bay Blvd was approved. An application for Alec Claudio at 3317 Teal Lane was carried to a later meeting due to insufficient service.

• Election of chairperson, vice chairperson, and secretary of the board for 2025.
• Appointment of court reporter for 2025.
• Public hearing on bulk variance (Appeal #13915) for a single-family dwelling at 2 Breton Harbor's Drive: proposed lot depth 40 ft (100 required), front yard setback 10 ft (25 required), rear yard setback 8 ft (20 required).
• Public hearing on use variance (Appeal #13901) and minor site plan for a pharmacy at 2008 Lakewood Road in Light Industrial zone: proposed front yard setbacks of 23.7 ft (Sunset) and 68 ft (Lakewood) against 100 ft required.
• Resolution approving bulk variance for John J. Lanza at 52 Ocean Bay Blvd.

The Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a D(1) use variance and minor site plan for 1548 Lakewood Road, LLC to convert a vacant restaurant supply facility into a pharmacy. The board also approved a bulk variance for John J. Lanza at 52 Ocean Bay Blvd. Officers were reorganized, and a court reporter was appointed.

• Approved D(1) use variance and minor site plan for pharmacy at 1548 Lakewood Road (7-0)
• Approved bulk variance resolution for John J. Lanza at 52 Ocean Bay Blvd (5-0)
• Reappointed Jason Crispin as Chairperson (7-0)
• Reappointed Nels Luthman as Vice Chairperson (7-0)
• Reappointed Dana Tormollan as Secretary (7-0)
• Appointed Denise L. Sweet & Associates as court reporter for 2025 (7-0)
• Approved minutes for May 9 and May 23, 2024 meetings (7-0)

Township Council

This meeting is the first of 2025, with organizational items including election of council president and vice president, adoption of meeting rules, and a large consent agenda. The council will vote on a temporary 2025 budget, authorize an $80,000 services agreement with Ocean County for road and vehicle maintenance, accept a $45,150 state grant for police safety, and appoint numerous officials and board members.

• Adoption of 2025 temporary budget
• Authorization of $80,000 interlocal services agreement with Ocean County (road services $55,000, vehicle services $25,000)
• Acceptance of $45,150 Safe and Secure Communities grant for police
• Appointment of Drew Chabot to Rent Leveling Board (unexpired term of John Solly)
• Appointment of police chaplains, special law enforcement officers, and school crossing guards for 2025

The Toms River Township Council held its reorganization meeting, electing Justin Lamb as Council President and Craig Coleman as Vice President. The council approved the 2025 meeting rules and schedule, moving regular meetings from 6 p.m. to 4 p.m., a change some members and residents opposed. A motion to table the rules resolution failed, and the rules were approved 4-3.

• Elected Justin Lamb as 2025 Council President (4-2, 1 abstention)
• Elected Craig Coleman as 2025 Council Vice President (4-2, 1 abstention)
• Approved 2025 Council meeting rules and regulations (4-3)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule with 4 p.m. start times (4-3)
• Approved consent agenda with exceptions of items A, B, N, Q, R (7-0)
• Appointed Drew Chabot to Rent Leveling Board (4-1, 2 abstentions)
• Appointed Lynn O'Toole to Planning Board (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Appointed Zoning Board members and alternates (6-0, 1 abstention)