A prominent issue discussed was the applicant’s proposal to address buffer requirements between the industrial site and adjacent residential areas. The applicant proposed the supplementation of the existing buffer with additional large evergreen trees to minimize the disturbance to the neighborhood. Parking considerations were also a major topic, with the applicant proposing a parking layout along South Roller Road, featuring barrier-free parking spaces and access routes to building entrances. The parking area design aimed to repurpose existing pavement width to minimize environmental impact.

Board professionals, including the board planner and board engineer, provided insights on several concerns. These concerns ranged from crime prevention and traffic safety to environmental impact and public works. Specific suggestions from the board planner included establishing a double stagger row of evergreen trees to enhance the buffer area.

The applicant also presented on the unique situation of parking spaces partially on their property and partially in the right of way. They highlighted the limited access to the road and the strategic selection of the loading area to match existing activity patterns. The proposed building’s design and its alignment with existing development on the property were also discussed, emphasizing efforts to minimize disturbance and satisfy parking ordinance requirements.

The board engaged in a examination of the proposed project, discussing site-specific considerations such as environmental impact and alignment with existing development patterns. This included a discussion on the Green Bank parking area, which the applicant argued was unnecessary based on current operations and never being at full capacity. The applicant requested not to be required to add impervious coverage unless necessary, as the parking requirement could not be met based on the ordinance. The board deliberated on various aspects of the proposal, including loading zones, building entrances, trash handling, and compliance with the tree ordinance.

During the course of the meeting, the public had the opportunity to express concerns and seek clarifications. Topics raised by the public included the anticipated parking needs for the new section of the warehouse, the length of the loading zone and its impact on emergency vehicles, building height variances, and lot coverage increase potentially leading to fire hazards. A particular concern was the issue of trucks idling overnight on the property, a practice prohibited by state law.

Noise impact was another significant concern, with discussions around the need for an acoustic engineer survey to assess the sound effects of emergency vehicle movement and the number of loading docks. The board members sought more information on these aspects before making a decision.

A resident expressed concerns about the proposed parking spaces, increased traffic, and potential damage to trees. In response, the company representative provided reassurances, including commitments to limit nighttime deliveries and address concerns about overnight parking and the impact on the neighborhood.

The discussion also included the exterior plans for the building, with the architect emphasizing that the new construction would match the existing building in appearance. The issue of noise from a compactor and the lighting plan were addressed, with proposals such as timers for lighting to minimize disturbance.

Additionally, the potential for the new building to accommodate solar panels was brought up, with confirmation that it was designed to be “solar ready.” Stormwater management was briefly discussed, clarifying that technical details would not impact the site layout.

After public comments and deliberation, the board discussed potential conditions for approval, such as obtaining township approval for parking spots extending into the right of way and compliance with technical letters from professionals. The board considered imposing limitations on delivery truck hours, suggesting a restriction from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and the possibility of including a police patrol to address any related concerns.

Also, the board reviewed proposed ordinance number 2469 related to stormwater control. The ordinance, mandated by the state, aimed at updating storm control regulations and was confirmed to be consistent with the master plan’s focus on stormwater control. After a motion, seconded and a roll call vote, the board unanimously approved the ordinance.