It is the borough zoning officer that approved the use of the closed former Mother Teresa School in Atlantic Highlands for its new use as an “education center’ for Their Place, a non-profit organization opening the building for autistic adults.
Members of the governing body indicated they knew nothing the matter prior to its approval when questioned about the facility at last night’s council meeting and asked why the change of use did not go before the planning board.
During the public portion of last night’s council meeting, local resident Mark Fisher asked why approval did not come before the planning board to enable a changed use for the k-8 parochial school that has been closed for eight years, inferring that the property could be deemed to have been “abandoned” in accordance with online published Article VII of the Borough’s General Zoning Provisions,§ 150-49 Nonconforming uses, buildings and structures.
Mayor Lori Hohenleitner said the zoning officer makes the decision on issuing permits; the approval was granted on the basis it was not necessary to go before the planning board inasmuch as Their Place plans on using the facility as a learning center for autistic adults, despite the online published Article II, § 150-6 Definition for Educational Use
Fisher questioned how a place for adults or any other group other than an elementary school could be considered a like use and was told the application for the use was listed as a learning center. He received no response to his question about whether the borough would require planning board approval if it were a school for criminals.
Fisher said residents learned nothing from the borough or governing body on the property, the permit, the use, or anything else in advance of municipal approval and a lease being issued. He said he has been questioned by several people as to how a learning center for autistic adults could be likened to a K-8 school and be approved without any public hearing, explanation or appearance before a municipal board.
Borough attorney Marguerite Schaeffer said there is no need to appear before the planning board should the zoning officer grant approvals. Persons who object have the right to file an appeal before the planning board, she said, so long as the time for such an appeal has not expired, despite the Borough Ordinances published on line are seemingly silent on any appeal process, except for the applicant.
Fisher told the governing body they were “running things backwards” by not having approvals identified and objections heard prior to approval rather than residents having to learn about an approval later and having to file an appeal.
Nor did the governing body know anything about the sign posted and illumenated at night in front of the school, which identifies the building as Mother Teresa Regional and identifies Their Place underneath. The bottom line on the sign reads “Together helping each individual reach”. Other than as an owner tenant, there is no other relationship between the parish and the non-profit organization.
The borough’s zoning officer is the borough clerk, Michele Clark.
On December 10, 2025, borough code enforcement officer Richard Colangelo issued a Certificate of Occupancy to Our Lady of Perpetual Help St Agnes parish approving the rental of 55 South Avenue to Nicole Appello, trading as Their Place.
Ms. Appello is the sister of the Saint Agnes parish business manager, Deborah Appello.
Their Place, whose website describes it as a non-profit organization has ten years’ experience in empowering adults with disabilities to lead fuller, more independent lives. The sites states that Their Place has grown from a small initiative to a thriving organization, thanks to the dedication of community, staff, and supporters, people working together to create programs that “inspire growth, foster connections, and open doors to endless possibilities. “
Their Place is “… passionate about the community …”and we make it our number one priority to make sure our clients feel right at home and are comfortable with their surroundings, our staff, and our program.”
Although the website does not mention education or learning, it notes there are instructors to work on a new Day Program that will allow “us to capitalize on the chemistry we have already developed among the staff members. Each of our instructors have (sic) extensive experience and knowledge in their particular field.”
The organization uses a “ multi-disciplinary approach combining recreational and prevocational activities that encourages (sic) the development of employable skills, social and emotional skills, and life skills. Our program will encourage our participants to apply what they learn to employment situations.” The program also encourages connectivity between individuals to insure exposure to new experiences and friendships.
The website continues that “Their Place is dedicated to championing the rights and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). We strive to create a compassionate and inclusive community where every person, regardless of their abilities, is valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Through advocacy, education, and personalized care, we work tirelessly to break down barriers, foster independence, and promote a society that celebrates the unique contributions of every individual with IDD. Our mission is to build a world where inclusivity reigns, and individuals with IDD are given the respect, opportunities, and support they deserve to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.”
Dr. Nicole Appello is identified as the CEO of Their Place. The site has two locations, in two different suites at 415 Rt. 18 South East Brunswick.
Borough resident Muriel Smith questioned Council on their responses to Fisher’s questions, questioning how a resident can file an appeal to any action if there is no public announcement or public meeting alerting to the public to the approval of any municipal action.
She questioned how the zoning officer, a paid, non-elected official, has the right and authority to make decisions without the governing body’s knowledge or approval.
She asked how the building the borough several years ago had spent thousands of dollars to assess and determine could not be rebuilt or reconstructed rather than torn down could receive building approvals. The resident was assured Code enforcement officer, Colangelo was strict and careful and would not allow anything to be approved should it be in danger.
Governing body members also said they did not know what portions of the building were being used under the borough approval, nor whether student would be in the same building for CCD classes on a weekly basis.
The resident expressed surprise and disappointment in a governing body that enables any major change to be approved by an official who works under the approval of those elected to run municipal business without having knowledge of it.
When advised she could file an appeal through the municipality if she questioned an approval, she advised the governing body she had submitted questions to the borough clerk more than two weeks ago, was referred to the borough administrator for a response and has not yet received any response.
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