The most prominent discussion focused on the proposed cold storage warehouse by Journey Mill Road LLC, intended for a site previously designated as a landfill. The project’s lead witness, Jeff Bastow, explained that the redevelopment aims to transform the blighted area into a revenue-generating entity, bringing jobs and ratables to the borough. Bastow mentioned that the project has been in the works since 2021 and includes the liability associated with the legacy landfill in the purchase and sale agreement. He emphasized the project’s potential benefits for the borough but clarified that while they would encourage local hiring, specific guarantees could not be made.

Engineer Dan Bush provided an in-depth overview of the site plan, detailing the geographical features and necessary modifications. The site, located within a flood hazard zone, will require significant elevation changes and grading to avoid flooding. Bush elaborated on the traffic improvements, including additional infrastructure to support truck and passenger vehicle access. The project will complement the county’s ongoing road widening efforts on Journey Mill Road, incorporating left-turn lanes and maintaining acceptable operational conditions for the adjacent roadway network.

Architectural details of the 75-foot high cold storage building were presented, highlighting its energy-efficient design and future solar energy capabilities. The facility will feature a glycol heating system for the freezer floors, recapturing heat from refrigeration equipment to enhance energy efficiency. The building will be constructed with insulated walls and roofs that exceed minimum energy code standards, aimed at minimizing noise and visual impact from the exterior.

Planner James Kyle emphasized the project’s alignment with the borough’s Redevelopment plan. Kyle justified the requested design waivers for sidewalk placement, grading, driveway width, and tree planting, arguing that they are reasonable given the site’s unique conditions and the project’s alignment with stormwater management practices.

In another significant agenda item, the board discussed the Andrew and Deborah Wallentine minor subdivision application for the property on Persing Place in Parlin. The proposal involved subdividing the existing 1.1-acre lot into three conforming lots, with the dedication of a 13-foot right-of-way to the borough creating a variance for the existing garage’s setback. The board deliberated three options regarding the right-of-way dedication, considering the implications for future development and compliance with zoning ordinances. The property owner, Andrew Wallentine, confirmed his agreement with the conditions discussed.

Public concerns were also raised during the meeting, particularly regarding a minor subdivision application on Bailey Place. Residents voiced fears about potential flooding, erosion, and property devaluation due to the steep slope of the proposed new lot. They emphasized the importance of careful grading, stormwater management, and tree preservation to prevent adverse impacts on neighboring properties. Engineer Chester D. Lorenzo acknowledged these concerns.

The meeting also addressed procedural aspects of future developments, emphasizing the need for plans and public notifications. The board discussed the feasibility of requiring neighbors within a 200-foot radius to be notified of potential future developments exceeding certain building regulations. This would allow residents to provide input if variances were necessary.