By John Burton
MIDDLETOWN – The township Planning Board is expected on Wednesday, Aug. 15, to again address the application for expansion from the Islamic Society of Monmouth County.
The board could render its decision that night, as representatives for the society had completed presenting their case and witnesses’ testimony when the matter was last heard on July 11.
The Islamic Society of Monmouth County, 506 Red Hill Road, is seeking board permission to expand its parking lot by an additional 106 spaces, to construct an approximate 5,000 square-foot community center and a 19,000 square-foot plaza area on the roughly 7.5-acre property, bordering the township and Holmdel.
The property currently contains a mosque, a guest house and office space.
Sparked by concerns raised by some area residents, the board last month recommended the applicant amend the plan and encouraged the society to install additional landscaping and expand the buffer between its property and its residential neighbors.
Board members had offered their opinions and permitted public questions and comments on the applications last month.
The public will have another chance on Aug. 15 to express their views following the presentation of any changes in the plan, Board Attorney James Gorman said.
