The primary focus of the meeting was the application from AAV RHW Property LLC, which sought preliminary and final major site plan approval to construct a warehouse and office building, including 25 loading dock spaces, 68 trailer parking spaces, and 72 passenger vehicle parking spaces on a 19.91-acre site in the Special Economic Development Zone. The project’s approval was previously postponed due to concerns about the septic system design. The applicant’s attorney confirmed readiness to proceed, with Vincent Kelly providing testimony on the updated septic design, which had been modified to comply with local health department regulations.

Kelly explained that the updated septic system design, a pressure dosing system, was the only feasible option given the site’s flat topography. The design included an electric pump with alarms to alert maintenance crews in case of malfunctions and two tanks to handle potential overflow. The system was designed to accommodate up to 1,995 gallons per day, just under the 2,000-gallon threshold requiring state-level approvals. Questions were raised about the proximity to the seasonal high water table and the system’s capacity under varied conditions, such as prolonged rainfall.

Board members and public commenters expressed concerns about the environmental impact, including soil stability, drainage patterns, and the high water table. Some residents questioned the adequacy of the septic system design given Howell’s changing weather patterns and increased flooding incidents. There were also concerns about the visual impact of the mounded system near Victory Road and the ability to maintain the septic system without disrupting the surrounding environment.

Public comments featured strong opposition to the warehouse development, with residents citing potential environmental harm and the unsuitability of the location. Mark Pesi referenced township ordinances on environmental impact assessments, emphasizing that substantial environmental harm could justify denying the application. Lawrence White highlighted the area’s residential and agricultural character, describing the proposed warehouse as inappropriate and stressing the challenges posed by the high water table and winding roads.

Zoe Ferguson presented a summary of previous hearings, pointing out discrepancies in the applicant’s stormwater management plan. She argued that the plan did not comply with groundwater recharge requirements, which could hinder the board’s ability to approve the application. Ferguson also questioned the applicant’s interpretation of groundwater elevation and the clustering of stormwater basins.

The applicant’s representatives defended their proposal, emphasizing compliance with municipal ordinances and arguing that the board’s authority was limited to confirming this compliance. They pointed out that increases in traffic due to a permitted use could not be grounds for denial, citing legal precedents. The applicant also proposed voluntary roadway improvements to enhance safety and detailed their stormwater management plan adjustments to address previous concerns.

Despite these arguments, the board remained unconvinced, particularly about the traffic safety concerns. Testimonies revealed potential risks in truck movements and the lack of clarity regarding the use of an easement at the intersection with Route 547. The board emphasized the importance of credible expert testimonies and expressed doubts about the applicant’s ability to manage environmental issues, particularly flooding.

Ultimately, the board voted unanimously to deny the application, citing unresolved concerns about roadway safety and environmental impact. With no further updates regarding the Master Plan or the need for an executive session, the meeting adjourned.