Marada Controls, known for its high-performance motion and flow control products, proposed expanding its loading zone and adding infrastructure to support its operations. The project includes the installation of 16 electric vehicle charging stations, an upgrade aimed at modernizing the facility in line with contemporary environmental standards.

John Engino, representing Marada Controls, outlined the project, which aims to improve the facility’s loading operations by adding retaining walls and a concrete pad for a chiller. The application sought several waivers, including a traffic study exemption and environmental assessments, citing minimal increases in peak hour trips and impervious surface coverage. The board approved these requests, recognizing the project’s potential benefits to the local economy, particularly given Marada Controls’ role in aerospace and defense sectors.

He expressed gratitude for the township’s support in amending zoning regulations to accommodate the expansion, which will allow for the relocation of the company’s power and actuation systems group. Despite these developments, Marada assured the board that operations would not impact the surrounding community, noting that daily deliveries would be minimal.

The board also focused on the engineering aspects, with civil engineer Brad Bowler providing a analysis of the site layout and proposed changes. Bowler discussed the existing non-conformities and the planned improvements to enhance operational efficiency while adhering to zoning laws. His testimony emphasized a collaborative effort between Marada Controls and the planning board to ensure the project aligns with local regulatory standards.

Amid the discussions on Marada Controls, another significant topic was the maintenance yard associated with the N Manor Associates residential development. The board scrutinized the state of the maintenance area, highlighting issues such as disorganized storage, damaged dumpsters, and inadequate parking facilities. Concerns were raised about the maintenance yard’s proximity to residential properties and its impact on the community’s aesthetic and environmental standards.

The board urged the applicant to improve the maintenance yard’s organization and appearance. There was also a proposal to replace the existing chain-link fence with a solid stockade fence to improve visual screening. Additionally, the board recommended a revised site plan that would present a more detailed and organized approach to managing the maintenance yard’s operations.

The discussion extended to the procedural aspects of the maintenance yard’s application, with the board deciding to carry over the case to the next meeting. This decision allows the applicant time to address the board’s feedback and prepare a more comprehensive proposal that considers the community’s concerns.

The approval of Marada Controls’ application and the continued deliberation on the maintenance yard reflect the board’s ongoing efforts to foster economic growth while maintaining the township’s quality of life.