Byram Village Center redevelopment draws objections from the Stabile family

Byram - Over objections from the largest landowner effected by the Byram Village Center project, the township council recently approved a resolution designating the property in question a “redevelopment” parcel. The official designation means the property can not be developed without the town’s approval and must conform to certain restrictions. Town officials had claimed that the designation had the support of the Stabile family, owners of both Wild West City and the property in question, during initial discussions regarding the town’s plans. Yet Joseph A. Vena, a lawyer representing the Stabiles, recently told the council the move could backfire and hurt any opportunities to develop the property to the town’s specifications. “My clients are in the process of trying to sell the property and they have a contract,” said Vena. “Now the rules have changed.” In addition to the designation, the town moved to increase the minimum size required for a parcel of land to be developed. The Stabiles own approximately 58 acres of land but with the town’s actions, no development can take place unless a property is 65 acres or larger. Although Vena acknowledged the process allows for a landowner to petition the town for a variance, he explained to the town council that the move puts a serious dent in the marketability of his client’s land. “Needing a variance is going to chase away an appropriate developer,” said Vena. “We don’t think that you did this intentionally but that is what is happening. We are losing buyers.” Town officials said the increased parcel size is necessary to put all of the Village Center pieces together. But according to Vena, the move will work against the towns future plans. “If we can’t change your minds, I am sorry and I wish I could, but you are going to have to work with us,” Vena told the council at a recent meeting. “What we need is the support of the planning board to consider the variances. We had someone willing to development in accordance with your plan. You are impairing their ability to market the property.”