A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the stormwater management plan associated with the proposed development. Residents voiced concerns about persistent flooding issues in the area, particularly during heavy rainfall. Several residents emphasized that existing infrastructure was already inadequate, citing frequent instances of standing water and property damage. One resident highlighted that “any mildly heavy rain causes a complete flood in my yard and down my driveway,” a sentiment echoed by others who reported similar issues on Ashwood and Longacre.

The applicant’s representatives outlined a comprehensive stormwater management system designed to address these concerns. The plan includes underground infiltration basins and a “tree in a box” filtration device to manage and treat stormwater before it re-enters the drainage system. The system aims to capture stormwater and release it at a slower rate, which they asserted would alleviate some of the existing flooding problems. The representatives argued that the new development would improve current conditions by managing stormwater more effectively than the existing setup, which lacks any formal management features.

Despite these assurances, skepticism remained high among residents. One resident questioned whether directing more water into the existing system could exacerbate downstream flooding, arguing, “you’re proposing to put five additional houses in an already landlocked area that’s surrounded by houses in a town where the infrastructure is stressed already.” The developers responded by reiterating that the new system would hold back stormwater and release it more slowly, thus reducing the immediate impact on downstream areas.

The Planning Board members engaged with these concerns, discussing the adequacy of the proposed stormwater system and its compliance with state and local regulations. It was confirmed that the system had been reviewed by township engineers and the Hudson-Soil Conservation District. One board member emphasized that the proposed plan would not only retain water on-site but would also release it more slowly, potentially reducing immediate stormwater runoff.

In addition to stormwater management, the meeting also addressed the subdivision’s impact on local traffic and infrastructure. The plan involves constructing a new cul-de-sac with a 40-foot radius, which requires a variance since the township typically mandates a 50-foot radius. The reasoning behind this request was to ensure sizable lots for the residential dwellings while still accommodating turning movements for township vehicles, such as fire and garbage trucks. The cul-de-sac’s design complies with RSIS standards for low-intensity major collectors.

Concerns about traffic generated by the new development were also raised. This suggested that the new development would have a minimal impact on local traffic.

Another aspect discussed was the variances and design waivers required for the project. Most variances pertained to existing non-conformities on Lot 19, including side yard setbacks and the new front yard designation due to the construction of the new road. The applicant argued that these variances were necessary for the overall layout and would not exacerbate existing non-conformities. The Planning Board and the expert planner present emphasized that the variances sought were minor and related to the reconfiguration of lot lines rather than any significant deviations from zoning standards.

In response to public concerns about the removal of mature trees and the potential impact on the local environment, the applicant committed to planting 112 new trees to replace the approximately 220 trees that would be cut down. They also assured compliance with the township’s tree replacement requirements.