Council Rejects Habitats Trailer Request Again

Despite an impassioned plea by Habitat for Humanity for the Oradell Council to reconsider its previous decision on denying the organizations request for a , the governing body's January decision was once again upheld.

The 4-0 decision included Council President James Koth and Councilwoman Donna Alonso abstaining from the vote. Koth lives within 200 feet of the project area while Alonso wanted input from the neighboring residents.

"The borough of Oradell has embraced this program," Councilman Garrie Murphy said. "We've given property, multiple variances, 50 percent off of building fees and now we're being asked to allow a sizeable trailer to be located abutting on the backyard of private residents for a period of time. Respectively and honestly, we have to draw a line."

According to Habitat, the trailer which is owned by the organization is primarily used for the storage of small tools, office space and volunteer check-in. The proposed location at the rear of the property was suggested by the borough's .

"The trailer measures 10-by-35-by-7 and is already set up for our needs," executive director Jacey Raimondo said. "I understand that most residential single-family homes constructed in town don't use trailers, but htis project is slightly different since it involves volunteers."

Oradell's building ordinances only allow for a Pod to be on location during construction.

"We've considered a Pod, as it's something that is different," Raimondo said. "But the trailer is set up for our needs, used all over Bergen County and owned by Habitat so there is no additional expense."

Raimondo stated that from the time Habitat acquires its building permit and demolition is completed, construction of the structures and pouring a foundation could take up to five months weather permitting. Construction would take place from 8am to 4pm on more days, except for Sunday.

Habitat to construct two, two-family homes planned for development on two lots at the corner of Westervelt Place and Lake Avenue. The four units, will include separated by a dividing wall and contain three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a one-car garage and a driveway.

Habitat was urged to return at a later date after consider using a Pod to house their equipment and office space.