The most pressing discussion at the meeting centered on Summit Custom Spray Drying Inc.’s request for preliminary and final site plan approval to add a new dryer to their facility. The proposal was met with concerns from board members and professionals about longstanding issues related to site safety and circulation, which had been flagged in previous resolutions. These issues included problems with the fire pump system and traffic flow, which were deemed critical to address before any expansion could proceed.

Board members emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to resolving these issues. The piecemeal approach taken in the past had led to confusion and potential safety risks, with four prior resolutions containing various conditions that remained unmet. A specific resolution, number 21-207, was cited, highlighting traffic circulation concerns that had not been adequately addressed.

Despite some resistance to the idea of an amended site plan, the board professionals argued that it was necessary to ensure that all conditions were met to protect public health, safety, and welfare. They pointed out the legal implications, noting the board’s authority to deny applications if these issues were not resolved. The history of unmet conditions by the landlord raised questions about the site’s developability and the tenant’s ability to proceed with their plans for a 3,600 square foot addition.

A board member inquired about the possibility of maintaining two coexisting site plans or whether approving the tenant’s proposal would nullify previous approvals, allowing for structured site improvements. The consensus was that the involvement of the landlord was critical for any comprehensive planning, and collaboration among all parties was necessary to move forward.

Further complicating matters were the stormwater management issues tied to prior approvals. Concerns were voiced about the potential impact of future developments on existing infrastructure, a concern under municipal land use law. A suggestion was made to meet with board professionals to devise a plan addressing these health and safety issues without requiring immediate landlord participation in a full amended site plan.

Given these complexities, the board granted a continuation of the hearing to allow for further discussions with the board professionals. One party expressed the need for a public hearing to present their case fully before deciding on an amended site plan. The board underscored the importance of a holistic approach. It was noted that previous site plan approvals could remain valid unless explicitly voided by the new approval process, though clarity on this point was necessary.

The meeting concluded with the scheduling of a follow-up session set for January 28, where further discussions would be expected on these unresolved issues. The hearing was carried over without additional notice.

In addition to the Summit Custom Spray Drying matter, the board addressed several other agenda items. A resolution authorizing a professional services agreement with Jessica Caldwell for a redevelopment investigation of block 40, lot 5.05 was approved. This resolution, a formality to ratify a prior decision, was passed unanimously.

The board handled extension requests from Woodmont Rarit and Flex LLC, the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, and Flemington Junction Associates 3 LLC. Each request was evaluated and approved without significant opposition. Specifically, the New Jersey Conservation Foundation’s request included a discussion led by representative Jamie Clack, who highlighted a need to clarify a resolution that inadvertently restricted the use of three barns on the property. The board agreed on the necessity for an amended resolution to address this issue separately from the extension request.