Franklin to update master plan

FRANKLIN — The Franklin Council discussed amending the borough's Master Plan at their meeting on Sept. 23.

Typically, Master Plans are completed every 10 years. Franklin's plan was completed in 2009.

The Economic Development Committee would be actively involved in the possible changes.

Under the plan, highway commercial properties along Route 23 require 5 acres. It is hoped that changes to the current zoning laws would improve business throughout the borough.

If the Planning Board is interested, the cost would need to be included in the 2015 budget.

Councilman Nicholas Giordano said being on the Planning Board had been an eye opener for him. He said some of the zoning on parcels was done wrong, and they would take massive variances to be fixed.

Some variances could even scare off businesses.

Giordano said in order to update the Master Plan, the borough would need to decide what the borough's philosophy is going forward.

"They need to do it right and pay attention to the philosophy of the town," he said.

For example, an Applebee's restaurant would not need or want five acres of land, he said.

Councilman Joseph Martinez said would like the rest of the town, including Main Street, to be taken into consideration in possible Master Plan updates, not just Route 23. According to Mayor Paul Crowley, the council will discuss the issue further.