The primary focus of the meeting was the proposed warehouse development by Homestead Road LLC, which faced substantial opposition from local residents and environmental groups. The application sought approval for constructing two warehouses in the TECD zone, a decision that has been the subject of contention due to the project’s potential to alter the local landscape and increase traffic on nearby roads.

A critical point of debate centered around the project’s compliance with stormwater management regulations. Objectors argued that the proposed design did not meet township requirements, particularly concerning the management of stormwater runoff, which could worsen existing drainage issues. Concerns were raised about the lack of compliance with the township’s ordinance, which mandates that stormwater systems manage quantity, quality, and recharge effectively to prevent exacerbating flooding.

The discussion also highlighted significant alterations to the site’s topography. The development plan proposed extensive changes, including the construction of retaining walls up to 16 feet high, which would impact the landscape. The township’s TEC zone requirements emphasize minimizing topographical changes, and objectors argued that the proposed design clashed with this mandate. Additionally, the absence of adequate visual renderings of the project’s post-construction appearance raised concerns about how the development would fit within the existing environment.

Traffic concerns were another major issue, with projections indicating a potential increase in truck traffic resulting from the warehouse operations. Local residents, represented by groups such as Local Citizens Against Traffic (LCAT), expressed fears that the anticipated truck trips could transform suburban roads into hazardous thoroughfares, particularly affecting those used by school students. The proposed routing of trucks conflicted with existing weight restrictions on nearby roads, potentially leading to increased congestion in the town center and raising safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists.

Environmental implications also took center stage, with testimony suggesting the project could negatively impact a stream on the property. The Sourland Conservancy articulated strong opposition, emphasizing the potential ecological threats to the Sourland Mountain region, a critical habitat for diverse wildlife and a vital water supply area.

Despite the opposition, the applicant’s representative defended the proposal, asserting compliance with the TECD zone’s requirements and emphasizing the project’s consistency with the standards in place at the time of application submission. The representative highlighted that the application process had been lengthy, involving numerous hearings and adjustments based on feedback from the Department of Environmental Protection and other stakeholders.

However, the lack of specific tenant information and the speculative nature of the warehouse operations further fueled community concerns. Objectors argued that without a known operator, it was impossible to accurately assess the expected truck traffic and its impacts. Furthermore, the environmental impact statement was deemed inadequate, failing to address several mandated topics, including potential soil and groundwater contamination.

The board was urged to consider the multitude of deficiencies in the application, with objectors advocating for a rejection to protect the community’s well-being and environmental integrity. Despite efforts by the applicant to provide additional evidence and assurances of compliance, the overwhelming sentiment at the meeting leaned towards opposition, with residents emphasizing the need to preserve Hillsborough’s character and ecological resources.