07:36The self-storage facility proposal, represented by Matthew Capzy, dominated the meeting due to its scale and the environmental impact concerns it raised. The project requires a use variance for the self-storage facility, as it is not permitted within the existing C3 zone. Additional variances are sought for the floor area ratio, building setbacks, parking, and loading spaces. The facility is planned to have a gross floor area of 120,570 square feet, with parking accessible from Route 22 only, while maintaining a compliant height of 36.54 feet.

53:16A significant issue arose regarding the removal of 209 trees on the site. The town’s requirements stipulate a replacement of 302 trees, but the current proposal only accounts for 171, leaving a deficit of 131 trees. This shortfall led to calls for revising the landscaping plan, with one board member suggesting a surplus of up to 400 trees to address the environmental concerns fully.

The conversation around tree removal was intense, with board members and residents expressing the necessity of maintaining aesthetic and ecological balance in the area. There were also questions about the completeness of the tree survey. Residents voiced their concerns about losing the farm stand, which contributes to the neighborhood’s charm.

30:12The proposed facility’s operational aspects, such as delivery logistics, parking, and noise concerns, were also scrutinized. The applicant assured that deliveries would mainly involve minor packages and that the site design accommodates the anticipated traffic flow. However, apprehensions about the absence of a designated operator led to demands for guarantees that safety and operational protocols would be upheld once an operator is selected.

01:36:37Public comments highlighted concerns over noise from roll-up garage doors and snow plowing, with residents demanding measures to mitigate these impacts. The applicant confirmed that facility operations would be limited to specific hours, with lighting designed to minimize disruption to nearby residents.

01:55:42In parallel, discussions surrounding the gas station expansion on Finder Avenue revealed compliance issues stemming from previous constructions. The applicant, represented by Rob Simon, sought amended site plan approval to rectify a contractor’s error that resulted in a zoning violation. The expansion includes modifications to the convenience store footprint and adjustments to the canopy’s position, which now requires additional variances due to its altered setbacks.

02:05:33The gas station’s operational adjustments, including a reduction in service hours, were proposed to address safety concerns. However, board members emphasized the need for immediate corrective actions to resolve the zoning violation and ensure site safety, particularly after past incidents in the area.

02:50:38Public concerns about the gas station centered on traffic safety, cleanliness, and the adequacy of parking arrangements. Residents highlighted the increased danger on Finder Avenue. The applicant acknowledged these concerns but pointed out that the modest scale of the project did not warrant a formal traffic study.