The Sherman Track affordable housing project generated substantive discourse, as it represents a critical step towards fulfilling Hillsborough’s affordable housing requirements. The project’s planner, Christine Kone, discussed the need for waivers regarding the location of detention basin outfall structures within the Stream Corridor due to the site’s constrained nature. The project team also requested relief for tree removal mitigation and points of access, emphasizing the development’s alignment with the goals and objectives of the Redevelopment plan and its minimal impact on the public good. The team assured the board of their willingness to make necessary interconnections between project phases and to address pedestrian and bicycle circulation concerns.

During the meeting, a point of contention arose regarding the absence of a superintendent on the property. Further discussions involved ensuring sufficient space for school buses, fire trucks, and garbage trucks to navigate the site. The board reviewed memos and letters concerning the intersection at Camplain and Buffalo, proposing changes to the layout and dimensions of roads and shoulders for better vehicle accommodation. Landscaping plans were also considered to screen neighboring residential properties from the headlights of exiting vehicles.

Another topic of interest was the proposal by SI Middlesex Farms LP for the modification of a building and the addition of parking spaces. The application aimed to comply with all use requirements in the I1 light industrial zoning district, with no variances required. The civil engineer presented renderings showing the proposed buildings, parking areas, and buffers. Concerns were raised about the impact on surrounding residential areas, adequacy of proposed buffers, and potential uses of the buildings. The applicant discussed converting proposed parking areas to porous paving and adding native landscape areas along the existing wet pond, responding to the environmental commission’s review.

The board engaged in a detailed review of the SI Middlesex Farms LP site plan, addressing concerns about outdoor storage spaces and seeking clarification on certain aspects. The applicant agreed to address points raised by the Chief Fire Marshal and board engineer as a condition of approval. Public comments revolved around water retention, road conditions, and traffic impact. The board emphasized the importance of complying with regulations and the potential impact on neighboring properties.

In a related discussion about a contractor yard, concerns about noise and operational hours were brought up, given its proximity to residential areas. The property owner committed to addressing any potential issues by maintaining communication with the township and neighbors.

Public input was solicited on both the affordable housing project and the building modifications, with a focus on safety, environmental impact, and adherence to township regulations. The public raised concerns about the entrance issue related to the affordable housing project, while the board promised to work with the fire official and township engineer to ensure an improved design.

As the meeting concluded, the board voted on the application before them. The board members shared their final thoughts before the voting process and adjourned the meeting, with the next scheduled meeting announced for July 11th.