The proposal for overnight truck parking at the church’s property was the most significant topic discussed. The church representatives, including Pastor Nick, emphasized that the proposal aimed to support community services, like their food bank, by establishing a small storage yard. They sought a D1 variance for this use, as overnight truck parking is not permitted in the CI Zone. To address concerns from an earlier meeting, the church proposed several limitations, including reducing the number of trucks from 60 to 30 and restricting operations to weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with no weekend activity.

Safety and environmental concerns were central to the discussion. The church representatives assured the board that no hazardous materials would be stored on-site and that vehicle repairs would be prohibited. They proposed a substantial landscape buffer and committed to adhering to fire department protocols, which include maintaining clear rows for access. The church emphasized its longstanding positive relationship with the community, including running a food pantry that serves approximately 5,000 local residents.

Joseph Stiger, a civil and traffic engineer, presented technical details about the site plans. He outlined the current conditions and proposed improvements, such as the establishment of 30 parking spaces and a bio-retention basin designed to manage stormwater effectively. This basin would be landscaped with vegetation to filter pollutants from runoff. Stiger also noted that the operational hours would be limited to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with a vegetative buffer of Arborvitae trees to further shield residential areas from potential disturbances.

There were discussions about the potential increase in traffic due to the start of school and the presence of a nearby park and soccer league. The church representatives clarified that their proposal did not involve overnight parking for trucks making deliveries, stating, “No sir, that’s not the usage we’re asking for.” They expressed a willingness to formalize this restriction to ensure compliance with zoning laws.

Nicholas Graviano, a professional planner, provided insights on the planning justifications for the variance request. He explained that the CI zone is intended for uses that generate considerable vehicle traffic and produce externalities. Graviano noted the applicant’s efforts to limit undesirable impacts through restrictions on hours of operation and landscaping enhancements. He emphasized that the proposed use was less intrusive compared to other permitted industrial activities, such as manufacturing or auto repair, which could operate 24/7 without restrictions.

The issue of traffic impact, particularly concerning nearby residential areas and playgrounds, was a point of concern. The applicant contended that the current proposal would generate less intensive traffic than other permitted uses that could occupy the site. They also committed to addressing various technical comments from professionals regarding site improvements, drainage, and environmental considerations, referencing state anti-idling laws that limit truck idling to three minutes.

The meeting encapsulated a spectrum of regulatory, environmental, and community considerations that would ultimately inform the board’s decision on the variance request. Michelle Hall Stapleton, a District leader for District 5 and a member of the church, approached the board to seek clarity on the application. She inquired whether the concern was solely about the overnight parking of trucks, given that truck flow was already allowed. She expressed support for the application but acknowledged that she needed to relay accurate information to the residents she represented.

The board decided to adjourn the discussion until the next scheduled meeting on September 11, 2024, allowing more time to analyze the case’s complexities. The meeting concluded with appreciation for the public’s attendance and engagement, particularly during a holiday week.