The central topic of the meeting was an application from TE Holdings, formerly CSH Ultan LLC, to amend a previously granted site plan approval. The board had initially approved the project in February 2023, but this decision was reversed by the mayor and council after an appeal by two citizens. This led to a lawsuit filed by CSH Ultan against the local government bodies. After negotiations, a settlement agreement was reached which reinstated the board’s original approval, pending modifications.

The primary modification involves the relocation of a historic house on the property. This adjustment was highlighted by Mary McDonald, representing the governing body, who mentioned that moving the house to the side rather than across the street would reduce potential damage.

Daniel Chanal, a civil engineer from Mic Engineering, provided expert testimony on the relocation process. The house is to be moved approximately 120 feet southwest of its current location. The plan also includes adjustments to drainage systems to comply with water quality and quantity regulations. A detention basin will be shifted, and necessary drainage adjustments will be made to maintain compliance with environmental standards.

The discussion also covered the legal distinction between TE Holdings and CSH Ultan, with both entities being related but distinct in the ownership structure of the property. Gail Price, representing the applicant, confirmed that the site plan remains largely unchanged from the original approval, aside from the historic house relocation and drainage modifications.

Public concerns were raised about the potential environmental impact of the development, particularly in relation to stormwater management and the preservation of the historic structure. Residents voiced apprehensions about increased flooding risks due to the removal of trees that currently absorb water on the site. An engineer reassured attendees that the design would not lead to additional runoff, and measures would be in place to manage stormwater effectively.

The meeting also addressed the broader implications of stormwater management regulations in New Jersey, with discussions focusing on ensuring compliance with state standards. The proposal was deemed a “diminimous change,” implying it did not alter the original plan. This classification allows for the reapproval of the site plan without requiring additional permits, provided that water quality and quantity conditions are met.

Public comments extended to traffic and safety concerns, particularly regarding increased pedestrian activity near the construction site. Residents noted the presence of more children using sidewalks and called for additional safety measures, such as crossing guards, to protect pedestrians during the construction phase. A traffic survey was suggested to assess the impact of the development on local traffic patterns, especially considering the anticipated opening of nearby retail stores.

The meeting also touched upon the historical significance of the site, with a member of the Bergen County Historical Society questioning why only the stonehouse portion of a historic building was being relocated. They emphasized the importance of preserving other historically significant sections of the property. Concerns were also raised about the potential for construction materials to contaminate nearby wetlands, highlighting the need for careful oversight and environmental protections during the construction process.

The Planning Board’s role in influencing building designs was clarified, confirming that the design of the assisted living facility was part of the original plan and had received prior approval. However, residents continued to express concerns about the environmental and traffic implications of the development, calling for a remediation fund to address potential flooding and pollution issues.