This is the historic look of Ocean Grove neighborhoods—no condominiums. Blogfinger photo. ©
In a letter to the Coaster today (7/20/17,) entitled “Ocean Grove’s Future,” Norm Goldman says that ongoing condominium conversions in the Grove threaten our quality of life by further increasing density in town. We urge you to read his letter, but here are some of his main points:
a. Allowing condominium conversions without parking provided leads to further congestion.
b. Neptune Township zoning code does not allow for construction of multi-family homes in OG.
“A variance is required to convert hotels, inns, or multi-unit homes into condominiums.” He says, “Residents as advocates against more condos would have to oppose applications for variances when they come before the zoning board.”
c. “Single family homes–in Victorian style–are specified in the Master Plan for Ocean Grove.”
d. RSIS standards are supposed to protect the Grove from parking congestion, but developers can ask for waivers to get around that barrier. Citizens need to oppose such requests at the State level.
e. He criticized a “local developer” and the OGCMA for wanting the North End designated as an area in need of redevelopment. He also cited the Historic Preservation Commission for failing to do more to enforce the Master Plan.
Norm concludes by saying, “In the final analysis, residents of Ocean Grove have to be knowledgeable to seize opportunities that will sustain the quality of life that initially attracted them to this land.”
Here is a link to a prior BF poll regarding this topic:
2015 poll about single family houses in OG
DOOLEY WILSON from Casablanca — “As Time Goes By”
Thanks Paul for commenting on Kevin’s entry.
I could not agree with him more. For years I have idolized his crusades….at his own expense.
The ultimate advocate for Ocean Grove !
It was great when he lived across the street.
Cheers,
Norm
Kevin – Don’t ever lose your passion. You are so knowledgeable and give the facts. Too bad nobody pays attention. But thank you.
Kevin: Regarding the North End, I think NG means that the Township allowed (“waivers”) developers to change the zoning by declaring a zone in need of redevelopment.
The Township has never been granted waivers from the State for RSIS parking requirements. The Township instead has been violating State parking laws and the State requirements for parking along with federal ADA parking requirements.
The Township has gone in front of the court 5 times and has violated the law 5 times with the courts’ blessing. This is what has lead to the overcrowding of our community. The Township has been given the right to violate law by judges that have themselves violated the law.
Sadly, because of this, OG has really no solution but to put up with Neptune’s abuse and bigotry.
Kevin Chambers