The most notable subject of the meeting was the approval of a 30,000-square-foot addition to the existing warehouse on Howard Avenue. The expansion plan involves consolidating three lots into one and requires multiple variances, including a D2 use variance, as warehouses are not expressly permitted in the Business and Industry zone. The existing 74,755-square-foot warehouse will be expanded to accommodate a growing business, which has outgrown its current facilities and relies on trailers for storage. The expansion will include office space and additional loading docks, with the goal of removing the trailers and improving operational efficiency.

The board discussed the environmental impacts of the expansion, noting that the site had a history of contamination due to previous industrial activities. A representative confirmed that soil contamination issues have been addressed, although groundwater contamination remains under monitoring. The expansion aims to reduce impervious coverage from 60.4% to 59.3%, improve stormwater management, and enhance site aesthetics. The design includes new landscaping, featuring trees and shrubs for erosion control and aesthetic purposes.

Community concerns primarily revolved around the potential increase in traffic, especially with large trucks accessing the facility. The applicant assured the board that truck traffic would be routed directly to the nearby highway, minimizing impact on residential streets. The proposal includes three driveways to facilitate efficient truck circulation, despite zoning regulations typically allowing only two. The board approved the expansion with conditions, including size restrictions on trucks and anti-idling signage.

In another significant agenda item, the board approved revisions to its bylaws, addressing the adjournment of hearings and the use of technology during meetings. The new bylaws allow meeting rescheduling without renotification unless an applicant fails to appear multiple times. Additionally, applicants represented by professionals must now display application materials on the board’s screens.

The board also granted an extension until November 3, 2026, to Hawthorne Management, due to delays related to resolution compliance and bonding issues. The representative assured this would be the final extension needed, as they are working to meet all requirements.

Another focal point was the Tawi Dawa Center’s application to amend previously approved conditions regarding parking. The center, serving as a prayer place for the local community, sought to adjust parking from 500 spaces to 157, with 127 built and 30 banked. Concerns were raised about traffic impacts and the adequacy of parking for the anticipated number of attendees. The board emphasized the need for sworn testimony from a principal of the Tawi Dawa Center to affirm their commitment to the conditions set forth by the board. The application was carried over to February 19, 2026, with the board advising preparation for potential county-imposed conditions related to traffic.