The primary issue revolved around a construction project by Pioneer Developers LLC, which necessitated the removal of a greater percentage of tree canopy than initially approved. The board was informed of the increased tree removal from 79.96% to 81.9%, which sparked a detailed examination of the project’s ecological impact. The board’s landscape architect, John Morgan Thomas, raised concerns over potential miscalculations and the survival of trees affected by the disturbances. The applicant’s engineer, Chris Nuser, was qualified as an expert witness to provide insights into the necessity of additional tree removal due to unforeseen disturbances during construction.

The applicant’s representative explained that the unexpected disturbances were unintentional and resulted from field conditions and topography. The board scrutinized the contractor’s transparency, expressing skepticism over the extent of disturbances and unauthorized clearing. The applicant’s president, Richard Rad, testified about the scale of the project, noting the movement of substantial dirt quantities and admitting to not consulting township engineers when issues arose, citing perceived urgency to continue work.

As the meeting continued, the conversation shifted to potential mitigation strategies for the tree removal. The applicant proposed providing a bond to assure the city that affected trees would be replaced at the required size if they died. However, board members argued that merely replacing trees would not address broader ecological impacts, such as soil compaction and impervious surfaces. A comprehensive assessment was called for to quantify these impacts and determine fair compensation.

The board also examined the project’s compliance with a new ordinance affecting tree replacement requirements. This ordinance necessitates on-site or off-site replanting or financial contributions based on the market value of removed trees. The applicant’s representatives sought clarity on reconciling old and new ordinance conditions.

Additionally, the board discussed variances related to tree canopy and signage, including a proposal for a monument sign on Barbish Drive. The board was informed that some walls on the property were removed, affecting fill areas and tree impact. A request was made regarding a guide rail installed contrary to ordinance specifications, with board professionals seeing no need for replacement due to its non-visibility.

The meeting also addressed adjustments made to parking spaces, noting these were striping changes and did not require additional relief. However, the discussions on tree removal and ecological implications remained central, with the board emphasizing the need for a robust plan to address environmental damage.

Subsequent topics included other applications for time extensions, notably the Apex Temp Treatment Center’s request for a year-long extension to obtain a certificate of occupancy. The board considered granting the extension to prevent restarting the approval process.