BARNEGAT – Local government officials have approved an ordinance to rezone two vacant lots at the end of Erin Way from commercial to residential use, sparking both praise and an objection from one nearby resident. The decision shifts the zoning of Block 114, Lots 8.02 and 9.02, from the Neighborhood Commercial (CN) zone to the R-20 Residential zone.
The lots, totaling over five acres, sit between the Hampton Ridge residential development and the Commons at Hampton Ridge office complex. Residents of Hampton Ridge had lobbied for the change, arguing that residential zoning aligns better with the character of the surrounding area.
Earlier this year, controversy erupted when developers proposed building three story age-restricted apartments. A previous developer requested a use variance to build self-storage facilities that would abut on the backyards of some Hampton Ridge homes with zero lot lines. Strong opposition from neighbors brought heightened scrutiny to zoning changes in the area.
Township attorney Christopher Dasti said that during the October Township Committee meeting, Hampton Ridge resident Charles Cunliffe suggested the zoning change.
“The township planner reviewed the area and saw that the fact that that area was in the CN zone was an outlier in that area of town because it was surrounded by residential areas,” said Dasti, adding that the changes comply with the township’s master plan.
During the ordinance hearing, David Mahoney, who lives on Gunning River Road across from the lots, expressed his objections.
“On a personal level, after many years of living in apartment complexes, I was excited to move to this specific spot to be surrounded by nature as much as reasonably possible,” Mahoney said. “It’s a dream house I spent a lot of time and energy working toward. So, it’s usually upsetting to hear that I’m potentially going to be living next to an entire neighborhood all of a sudden.”
Mahoney added that by keeping the land zoned commercially, he still had hopes that a quiet business park would not change the area. Mahoney also requested the township retain vegetation along Gunning River Road and provide access to public sewers if the area is developed.
Township officials clarified that there are no immediate plans to develop the lots. Dasti explained that any future development would require a land use application, including detailed plans for drainage, buffers, and utilities. All residents within 200 feet would receive notification of any property development requests. Township Engineer Kurt Otto emphasized that one of the lots currently functions as a drainage basin and will remain as such.
Hampton Ridge residents Sam Jr & Leontyne Holland Vinson also attended the meeting and received reassurances that the R-20 zone only allows for single-family detached homes on half acre lots.
Cunliffe was out of town when the ordinance was passed but sent in a letter that Clerk Donna Manno read. He thanked the township for its responsiveness on behalf of Hampton Ridge residents and also acknowledged the efforts of the township attorney and engineer in crafting the changes.
