Waldwick October 26, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 7 PODS (portable on demand storage units) and mixed uses are expected to be incorporated as permitted uses when Waldwick’s updated zoning ordinance is introduced later this year. Discussion on the proposal is expected to continue at the next workshop meeting of the mayor and council. According to Borough Administrator Gary Kratz, the current ordinance is moot on the subject of PODS; thus, they are not permitted. But exceptions are made under extenuating circumstances, such as following a fire or a flood, in which case the building inspector can authorize their use. “Allowing them and requiring a permit is a cleaner way of handling them,” Kratz told the mayor and council at a meeting PODS, mixed uses to be addressed in zoning ordinance earlier this month. “It’s hard to say no. It’s a practical choice,” noted Councilman Frank Palladino. Borough Attorney Craig Bossong said they could be limited to a 90-day period with two possible shorter extensions, to make certain they do not stay permanently. Planning Board Chairman Scott Lemmon noted that they are very visible, so there should be no problem in administering any restrictions set forth. “Requiring a permit should be enough,” he said. Lemmon suggested setting down regulations for house trailers on residential properties as well, even though he said no problems have arisen to date. “We shouldn’t introduce it if we haven’t had a problem,” said Palladino. Kratz said there had been two instances where residents had wanted a house trailer following a fire. A variance is required to have one, and it must be in the back yard, shielded from the street and may not be used as sleeping quarters. “A variance defeats the purpose if it’s needed under extenuating circumstances,” Kratz note. Nevertheless, the council decided not to address the issue at this time. Permitting mixed uses would allow residential apartments above a commercial establishment. When the idea was first brought up in August, it drew mixed reactions. Councilwoman Anita Bozzo said having living quarters in the central business area may attract and keep a younger crowd to town. Lemmon, however, said that while mixed uses provide The Waldwick Community Alliance has come up with a fundraiser that will pay those who attend while proceeds are amassed for the train station restoration project. On Nov. 15, the WCA invites area residents to bring their broken or unwanted gold, platinum, silver, flatware, and watches to the Waldwick VFW Post 1049 at 7 Hewson Avenue and receive cash on the spot. Between 6 and 8 p.m., American Gold & Diamond Buyers will have dealers on hand to inspect items and offer payment. With the highest prices in history being paid for precious metals, WCA announces fundraising effort diversity, they create parking problems, and cited the West Prospect Street area near the railroad tracks as an example. He noted, however, that there aren’t that many properties with the potential for a mixed use. Borough Planner Paul Grygiel had said at the earlier meeting that, properly regulated, a mixed use can work. The borough’s planning board has been working with Grygiel on making the first comprehensive revision to its zoning ordinance since 1976. The proposed 250-page document consolidates four previous code books totaling more than 900 pages, which included land use procedures, site plan review, subdivision and soil movement requirements, and zoning. The original code was adopted in 1936, and revised in 1953 and 1976. The ordinance must be adopted by the council to become law. there is no better time than now to put cash in your pocket and raise money for a good cause, event organizers said. American Gold & Diamond buyers will be donating 10 to 20 percent of the evening’s proceeds to the Waldwick Community Alliance for the train station restoration project. During the event, free snacks will be available and the VFW will be open for refreshments. Call the WCA at (201) 873-8919 to make a reservation and receive priority attention.