The reclamation plan for the quarry, originally established in 1986, was a focal point of the meeting. Concerns were raised about the outdated nature of the document, which no longer accurately represents the quarry’s current operational realities. Participants emphasized the necessity of updating the plan to incorporate developments over the past 40 years, including changes in ownership from Stavola to the current proprietor. The board stressed the importance of a detailed narrative aligning with engineered plans to prevent confusion and maintain transparency.

Key discussions addressed the life expectancy estimates for the quarry’s operations, which vary between 20 and 35 years. The need for a narrative that accurately reflects these estimates was deemed essential. Additionally, the original program’s outdated information on ownership, zoning, and slope specifications was highlighted, with a call to revise these details to reflect the current situation accurately.

The board engaged with representatives from the quarry about ongoing reclamation efforts. The meeting featured a presentation detailing the reclamation progress, focusing on creating a safe and stable environment suitable for future redevelopment. Specific changes since the last plan were discussed, including the relocation of the primary crusher to a final elevation, facilitating further reclamation efforts. These modifications aim to reduce material stockpiled in the quarry’s center, aiding the reclamation process.

The dialogue also touched on stormwater management strategies, with representatives assuring the board about the capacity and management of basins. These basins are important for handling water from lower elevations, aligning with reclamation efforts and recommendations from county studies. The representatives emphasized collaboration with Somerset County and AECOM on a regional stormwater review and flood mitigation proposal, with initial phases completed and a focus on engineering solutions.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing board members’ frustrations regarding the lack of specific answers to questions about the reclamation plan. Participants expressed dissatisfaction over the perceived dismissiveness of representatives in providing clear responses. This sentiment echoed concerns from a prior meeting in September 2022. Board members sought clarity on the reclamation plan’s alterations, highlighting a disconnect between the board’s need for detailed information and the representatives’ assurances of compliance with the original plan.

Further inquiries were made about documenting and communicating progress on the reclamation plan to the board. Suggestions included creating a visual representation of the reclamation process to facilitate understanding among board members. The representatives acknowledged this need and committed to enhancing visibility moving forward.

The meeting also addressed the state of the chain link fence surrounding the quarry, required by ordinance whenever operations approach within 150 feet of residential zones. The fence’s condition and compliance with regulations were confirmed to be in good repair.

As the meeting concluded, the board discussed the timeline for updating the reclamation narrative. A goal was set to present a revised document at the township council meeting in December. The representatives expressed their intention to expedite the process to meet this timeline. The board also reviewed updates on the open space and recreation plan, incorporating last-minute changes based on previous workshops and planning board recommendations. The adoption of the updated open space and recreation element of the master plan is projected for early December, with ongoing updates promised to the board.