Redevelopment Project for Giamano’s Tabled for Now
By JOANNE L. PAPAIANNI
A vote on revised plans for a redevelopment project centered around Giamanos restaurant in Bradley Beach was tabled this week by the Borough Council while officials wait to see if a grant is approved which would help the borough in its planning efforts for Main Streets future.
Councilman Gary Engelstad and Councilwoman Julie Schreck both worked on and submitted the grant application and agreed it would better to table the vote until the borough is notified about the grant. Councilwoman Lori Marchak-Ortiz, who chaired the meeting in the absence of Mayor Stephen Schueler, also agreed.
Councilman Thomas Volante was not at the meeting.
The timing hurts you, Engelstad said speaking to Pasquale Menna, the attorney representing developers Empire Lofts.
The council expects a decision in May on the grant.
Menna opened his comments by saying the basic thrust of the revised plans are the zoning modifications. He said the plans were devised to enhance the existing business district on Main Street and do away with piece meal development to give the area a consistent flavor.
Harmonious development will enhance the site itself, Menna said.
At issue is the overlay zone which would allow four-story development up to 54 feet in the area between Third and Fourth Avenues.
Cheryl Bergailo, Planning Consultant, said the plans would provide a fiscal benefit to the town in the form of increased ratables.
The plan calls for 24 units of residential space which Bergailo said was in demand.
The demand for multi-family housing is increasing, she said.
Also there would be increased pedestrian traffic in the area.
The extra activity will be a benefit, she said.
Bergailo also said the zoning would provide incentives for future developers.
Covered parking is also included in the plans.
Bergailo said allowing the consolidation of smaller lots in the area would benefit redevelopment.
Allowing 20,000 square feet would encourage the assembly of small parcels, which Bergailo said should be a goal of redevelopment efforts.
Currently there is a three story limit on buildings with a 40 foot height maximum in Bradley Beach.
Set backs for four story heights would be 15 feet east of Main Street.
Bergailo said the increased height will allow for terraces and rooftop gardens, along with open space, allowing the roof line to be varied.
Several members of the public commented on the plan, saying their belief that it would benefit developers financially, but not the town.
Bergailo countered their argument saying, The overlay zone was rather beautiful…had an esoteric look in the 40s, 50s and maybe 60s.
But, she added, Bradley Beach has competitive pressure north and south.
Responding to questions about how the plan would benefit the town Bergailo said, A very healthy, very thriving downtown that rejuvenates itself is very beneficial to your town.
Engelstad said, This council would rather have the towns direction….and wait until the town gives that direction.
Many people believe that developers should work within the confines of existing codes.
Bergailo said, I think it will be a model. Im telling you now this is suitable for this area.
Steffan Manno, owner of Giamanos took offense to personal attacks from residents accusing him of benefiting financially from the plan, after Ed Chicci, a resident, said that Manno would be getting a free restaurant out of the deal.
Manno, following the meeting, again made clear that he is not one of the developers, although his restaurant is to be included in the project.
Ive never attacked anybody personally, or even mentioned anybody by name, Manno said.
Manno has owned his business and been in town for 25 years, he said, and has no intention of leaving.
He did, however, say he wants to create more of a neighborhood in the area surrounding his restaurant.
In directing comments toward Menna, Chicci thanked him for coming into town to line your own pockets.
As Chicci persisted in questioning the attorney about the possibility that residential units would not sell and would ultimately be rented, Menna declined to answer the questions, calling them inappropriate.
Chicci said he was concerned about losing sunlight if four story buildings are allowed.
Norma Bishkoff, a resident, said she did not want the town to become Asbury Park or Spring Lake.
We are casual people living here….were a beach town, she said.
Contact Joanne Papaianni at joanne@thecoaster.net.
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