The delay stemmed from the project’s need to amend its stormwater management plan, as required by county review. Despite these delays, the council voted unanimously in favor of the extension, recognizing the project’s inclusion of 12 affordable housing units that align with the municipality’s fair share plan.

The Heavenly Estates subdivision proposal, which aims to transform two existing lots into 15 residential lots and three open space lots, also drew discussion. The applicant’s attorney emphasized improvements made to the plan to address previous concerns, particularly regarding buffer areas and environmental guidelines. The revised plan increased open space by nearly two acres and ensured no lots would infringe upon buffer zones. The council discussed the necessary variances resulting from these changes and expressed a general sense of alignment with the master plan, albeit with some reservations.

A key point of contention was the setback distance from the property line. The revised front buffer was approximately 400 feet, falling short of the desired 500-foot setback. This discrepancy led to mixed opinions among council members. One member suggested that removing two additional houses could achieve the 500-foot guideline, maintaining the area’s visual integrity. Nevertheless, some members viewed the plan as a reasonable compromise that balanced aesthetics and environmental considerations.

Public input also played a role, with several residents expressing their views on the proposed subdivision. Francine, a resident, raised concerns about the adequacy of the emergency vehicle turnaround near the conservation area. Another resident, Ralph, questioned the farmhouse property’s classification for farmland assessment and praised the revised plan’s improvements while urging the council to prioritize safety. Jay, another resident, inquired about lot sizes and past dumping issues, highlighting potential impacts on the local water supply.

The council acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing that their role was to evaluate zoning applications rather than address enforcement actions related to past violations.

The conversation about past dumping issues on the property resurfaced multiple times during the meeting. A participant noted that the township had been aware of soil dumping activities involving a stop work order and the Freehold Soil Conservation District’s intervention. However, some council members expressed dissatisfaction with the level of awareness and documentation regarding these past actions. They stressed the importance of understanding the historical context and potential environmental impacts on drinking water sources.

Technical aspects of the new concept plan for the property were also scrutinized. One member sought clarification on the 25% impervious coverage limit for each residential lot, emphasizing the need for a review of bulk standards. Another member criticized the proposed straight road layout, arguing that it did not align with the existing aesthetic of Holmdel neighborhoods, which typically feature curved roads and open spaces.

The meeting concluded with brief mentions of administrative approvals, including minor changes to the front swing door at the Kimco Golf Galaxy and signage adjustments at the Holmdel Town Center. These changes fell within established guidelines and did not require detailed motions, allowing the council to focus on the more pressing development issues.