Professional Planner: Helipad Not Accessory Use, Not Inherently Beneficial

Professional Planner Michael Steck testified Monday night before the zoning board of adjustment that the helipad proposed by Overlook Hospital should not be considered an accessory use and therefore should not fall under the umbrella of the hospital's inherently beneficial use.

Steck said that if the board were to determine the helipad an accessory use to the hospital function, it would not have much authority to do anything other than approve the variance application.

"It's almost a free ride," he said.

He also said in his professional opinion, the helipad is not necessary to the hospital's function. Over the course of the last several months there has much discussion about other comprehensive and primary stroke centers in New Jersey.

Steck said that there are 52 combined comprehensive and primary stroke centers and of those 27 have helipads. He also said in order for a hospital to receive state designation as a comprehensive stroke center, the presence of a helipad is not required.

Due to the presence of the 51 other hospitals designated as primary or comprehensive stroke centers, Steck said most patients would actually pass by another stroke hospital on their way to Overlook.

"It's a question of do I got for the brand name or the shortest distance?" he said.

Attorney Michael Kates, representing a group of neighbors opposing the helipad installation, did not finish his questioning of Steck. Testimony will continue April 5.