The meeting delved into the application from F Greek Development Inc. for an amended site plan to enclose tanks on a property on Foster Lane. Cara Kazinski, representing the applicant, outlined the request for a 4,275 square foot building addition, which would also involve the installation of two additional exterior tanks and a utility tunnel. The application sought several variances, including a rear yard setback variance due to the addition encroaching further into the setback than previously approved. The proposed addition would be 69.17 feet from the rear property line, whereas 100 feet is required by zoning regulations.

Concerns surrounding the environmental impact of the facility’s operations, particularly regarding stormwater management, were a prominent part of the discussions. The applicant confirmed that while the facility could continue its operations, truck washing would not be permitted until the necessary permits were obtained. This point was emphasized after observations and video evidence suggested non-compliance with existing prohibitions on truck washing, raising concerns about potential environmental impacts like runoff entering bio-retention basins and storm drains. The board debated the practicality and enforceability of conditions to prevent such activities, eventually agreeing that a condition should be added to the approval that explicitly prohibits truck washing until the appropriate state permits are secured.

The board’s conversation also covered the proposed utility tunnel, which would facilitate the movement of materials into the facility, and the necessity of maintaining access for utility companies. The proposed tunnel would house utility lines underground, constructed from seamless welded stainless steel to ensure durability and ease of maintenance.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the significance of ensuring adequate stormwater management and the implications of grading adjustments necessary for the construction. Initially, the project aimed to minimize stormwater impact by limiting disturbance to the area south of the building, focusing primarily on the storm pipe trenches. However, the necessity for staging led to revisions in the grading plan, which, while increasing the disturbance area, received approval from the soil conservation district.

Further discussions addressed the visual impact and compliance of the proposed outdoor storage tanks, which would be shorter than the main building and screened from street view. The applicant sought a variance for hard surface coverage, proposing 45.02%, slightly exceeding the recently reduced 40% threshold for the zone. The applicant argued that the benefits of the proposed site plan amendments, including improved visual environments and minimized outdoor impacts, outweighed any potential detriments.

The applicant was required to elaborate on the variances outlined in the planner’s report.

The board ultimately agreed that the proposed expansion and modifications would not proceed without adherence to the conditions discussed, including securing necessary permits and compliance with environmental standards. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of formalizing these conditions in the approval resolution to safeguard community interests and environmental protections.