The primary focus of the meeting was the application by Prime Space Capital LLC for a self-storage facility on Pine Street. The proposal, which requires a use variance due to the site’s residential zoning, involves constructing a three-story building. During the meeting, representatives from Prime Space Capital LLC presented substantial modifications to their original plan, including a reduction in the building’s footprint from 41,250 to 38,050 square feet, and a redesigned site plan that relocated the primary access from Pine Street to Route 18. This change aimed to minimize impacts on the residential neighborhood, addressing previous concerns voiced by the board and community members.

Key testimony during the meeting focused on the proposed facility’s traffic flow and site access. The applicant’s engineering consultant, Josh Seawald, outlined the revised traffic circulation plan, which included a one-way pattern directing vehicles to enter and exit via Route 18. This modification was designed to alleviate potential congestion and enhance safety. The board was informed that the New Jersey Department of Transportation had received the application for a new access permit, with comments expected soon.

Public comments highlighted deep concerns about the proposed facility’s impact on the neighborhood’s character and environment. Several residents expressed apprehension over the visual and environmental effects of a large commercial structure in a predominantly residential area. They questioned the necessity of such a development, given the availability of other storage facilities nearby. Residents also raised the issue of drainage, fearing that the construction could exacerbate existing flooding problems.

It was clarified that the board’s role was not to consider financial aspects, such as potential tax revenue, but rather to ensure that the variance request met legal criteria. The necessity of a supermajority vote for approval was noted, with the application set to be continued to the next meeting due to the absence of a full quorum.

Residents advocated for maintaining the area’s residential nature, voicing discontent over the potential displacement of long-standing businesses and the introduction of a sizable commercial entity.

Environmental concerns were a part of the discussion. Questions were raised about the impact on local wildlife and vegetation, with residents seeking assurance that the proposed development would comply with state environmental regulations. The applicant confirmed that an environmental impact study had been conducted and met all relevant standards, with no endangered species identified on the site.

As the meeting concluded, the board chair announced that a decision on the application would be postponed to the next session, scheduled for October 16. The chair encouraged attendees to stay informed through the township’s website and assured that public comments would be welcomed at the upcoming meeting. The decision to carry the application forward was seen as prudent, avoiding the risk of a vote with a limited quorum that could lead to legal challenges.