Anticipated Exxon Development Hearing Delayed Once Again In Chatham

CHATHAM, NJ — The Chatham Borough Zoning Board hearing for the application looking to convert an existing auto repair shop into a Tiger Mart convenience store has been rescheduled for the third time.

The application was initially meant to be heard by the zoning board back in July but was then pushed back until Aug. 23, then to Sept. 27, and now finally to Oct. 25. The zoning board had previously explained that the setback was necessary to allow the Historic Preservation Commission to provide its feedback.

However, the commission unanimously voted on Sept. 19 to "not recommend" the design plan to the borough's zoning board, which is scheduled to review the application at the end of September.

The Exxon gas station is located at 185 Main Street, at the corner of Hillside Avenue.

According to application records, the applicant, Danny Realty LLC, plans to modify the existing auto repair shop on the property by replacing the inside with a convenience store and building additional lighting and landscape improvements.

According to the site designs, the retail area would be 2,400 square feet and would include a sales section, a back office, and a restroom.

The application also suggests that the old signpost be replaced with a more modern and elegant freestanding sign, as well as that extra lighting components be installed.

The proposed monument sign was one of the objections that the Historic Preservation Commission had to the proposal.

"It is HPC’s opinion that the scale and graphics presented are not appropriate for the Historic District. Internally illuminated signs are not permitted in Chatham Borough ordinances," a Historic Preservation Commission report stated.

Since the proposal was first announced, some homeowners have raised concerns about the possible increase in lights and traffic that the convenience store could bring to the neighborhood.

Others have expressed concern about the possibility of extended business hours.

The Chatham Zoning Board will meet on Oct. 25 at 7:30 p.m.