The applicant’s attorney initiated the discussion with an overview of the project, stressing their willingness to address the township of Bridgewater’s concerns about potential loitering. As the meeting progressed, expert witnesses, including an engineer, an architect, and a traffic expert, delved into the specifics of the site plan, landscaping, lighting, stormwater management, and traffic impact.

The engineer, Mr. Craig Styers, presented a site plan that included the removal of the gas station infrastructure and enhancements to parking and lighting. The plan also called for variance relief for maximum improvement coverage, front yard setbacks, and loading spaces, as well as waivers for shade trees, street trees, stormwater management, and lighting. Discussions ensued about the provision of street trees and shade trees, as well as the property’s slope and curb configuration. The board engaged with Mr. Styers on these aspects, emphasizing safety and ordinance compliance.

Additionally, the architecture of the proposed building was scrutinized, with particular attention paid to the exterior finishes, signage, and the absence of second-floor windows, which was justified by state-regulated security and product storage requirements. The anticipated customer volume, staff numbers, and operational hours were also outlined, aligning with the town’s ordinance requirements.

Security measures at the proposed dispensary were a concern. The operation planned to employ surveillance cameras covering 100% of the floor space, access controls for staff areas, and on-site and cloud video storage for 30 days. Curbside operations were discussed, with the applicant expressing a preference for pre-ordering and quick customer visits to minimize traffic congestion. The board sought assurances that the retail area entry process, including ID verification and self-service kiosks, would comply strictly with cannabis statutes and regulations.

Mr. James Barr, with experience in the cannabis industry, provided insights into the proposed operation, emphasizing the business model’s convenience and the comprehensive security measures in place, including a security guard receptionist. He also touched upon the HVAC systems with filters that would mitigate any potential odors from the facility.

However, the safety of access from North Gaston Avenue, potential traffic increase concerns, and the impact of nearby traffic patterns on the site were points of debate.

Representatives from the township of Bridgewater raised issues regarding loitering, consumption in cars, and compliance with traffic and curb standards. They requested these concerns be conditions of any application approval. The applicant contended that while the existing access system might not meet all standards, the lack of intensification to the existing condition might preclude the need for variances.

The meeting also touched on construction plans, with the applicant assuring that the gas station would remain operational during the building addition, with safety as a priority. The board discussed the conditions of approval for the application, including compliance with the board planner’s report and preference for Belgian block curbing. The board members unanimously agreed on the conditions of approval before moving into an executive session, concluding the public portion of the meeting.