SCOTCH PLAINS — The zoning board of adjustment last week gave its approval to the JCC of Central New Jersey’s application to place nine large tents on its property that will be used during its summer-camp program.

The three-year renewal of the JCC’s temporary operating permit (TOP) to utilize the tents came after some backand- forth discussion about the larger size of the tents this year. Board Chairman Craig Peskin asked why the tents were “significantly larger” than in previous years, estimating that the nine tents this year will measure about 8,400 square feet in total area versus previous years, when they amounted to just under 5,000 square feet. JCC officials attending last Thursday’s hearing were unclear as to the reason why the larger tent sizes were not included in last week’s application, and the organization’s attorney, Steven Tripp, apologized several times for the confusion.

The tents, which will be put up in early June and taken down before Labor Day, are used as a gathering spot for the 850 campers, said Steve McGarr, the JCC’s senior director of operations. JCC Executive Director Michael Goldstein told the board that during inclement weather, the campers are accommodated inside the building, in the gymnasium and in multi-purpose rooms.

One resident living across Martine Avenue from the JCC aired no concerns about the tents but did request that those operating the camp lower the volume on the outdoor loudspeakers, saying he could hear music and announcements from inside his home.

Despite the confusion about the size of the tents, board members were supportive of the JCC’s application, with Vice-Chairman Frank Cruz noting the lack of complaints from neighbors. He also asked the JCC to be sure to submit the correct tent sizes the next time it applies for a permit. Mr. Peskin told the JCC representatives that if the tent sizes are to be increased during the three-year TOP time frame, they need to return to the board for a new hearing and updated permit.