The amendments sought by Red Bull Arena Inc. were substantial, focusing on scaling down the project to better align with the Red Bulls’ operational needs. Nick Rasi OPI, representing the organization, detailed the shift in the program that led to these changes. The main building was reduced by one floor, and the loading area was downsized and modified. Landscaping plans were altered to emphasize buffers and reduce superfluous trees and plantings. Importantly, the amendments did not include extending the hours of lighting, adding new lighting areas, changing existing lights, or adding any new fields.

The council discussed the process for addressing questions to witnesses, deciding to defer queries until after architects and engineers had presented their details. When witnesses were sworn in, the history of the project was recounted, including the reasons for the amendments, which were primarily attributed to a business decision to keep the Red Bulls front office operations in Harrison at Red Bull Arena. This shift led to a diminished need for space at the proposed Morris facility. Consequently, the reduction in employees would affect deliveries, truck counts, and the operation hours of the loading dock.

Architectural changes were also a focal point, with the expert architect explaining reductions in building height and changes to the building’s appearance. Mechanical units were relocated, and the spectator seating area was reimagined to resemble a park-like setting. The council reviewed and questioned these amendments during the session.

Further discussions highlighted alterations to the indoor field structure, signage, and lighting. While no changes were made to the lighting, some murals were removed. Debates also touched on zoning regulations, noise controls, and alterations to the construction timing schedule. The applicant detailed the shift in construction phases and field development, responding to questions about the environmental commission’s report and the transport of soccer balls for the youth training program.

The council delved into the intricacies of the project’s landscape and engineering aspects, scrutinizing the changes in the number and types of trees and shrubs, as well as ground cover alterations. A notable change was the reduction of the tree count by 36, while increasing evergreen trees by 25. The replacement ratio of trees changed from 1,196 in the original plan to 629 in the amended proposal. Details were provided about the areas where trees were removed or downsized and the species changes, with a focus on survivability and adherence to the approved list of species.

In the realm of utilities and site design, discussions included adjustments to fencing, the creation of a wellness garden, and the relocation of electric vehicle spaces. Utility changes were also mentioned, such as coordinating with the Southeast Morris County MUA on fire hydrants and adapting the electrical service based on the utility provider’s request. The total impervious coverage for the site was slightly reduced due to walkway adjustments, despite a slight increase in building coverage.

A contentious topic was the debate over the suitability of solar panel proposals from various organizations. The lack of a beneficial monetary solution hampered the decision on incorporating solar panels into the project. Project timing was also scrutinized, with the council parsing the interpretation of the schedule for subsequent phases, noting a 12-month delay for these phases.

The public comments section brought forward concerns about the facade of the building, the purpose of a generic court, and the presence of lights near the basketball court. A witness provided in-depth information on landscape changes, including the elimination and addition of different tree species and the redesign of the burm.