The board’s most notable decision involved Willow Tree Therapy Services LLC, regarding their application to operate a general mental health and wellness therapy center on Wilson Drive. This fully developed 1.86-acre lot in the Economic Development (ED) zone will now facilitate therapy services for a broader demographic, with operational hours from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM from Monday to Saturday and from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Sundays.

The proposed changes included internal modifications to enhance privacy and functionality, such as the elimination of a staff bathroom and the addition of a knockbox for emergency access. Architect Matthew Smatana detailed these updates, noting the reconfiguration of open areas into more private office spaces, particularly for play therapy.

Concerns were raised about the facility’s HVAC system’s capability to handle the new layout. While a full assessment had not been completed, the anticipation was that newer units would be more efficient. Environmental considerations were also addressed due to the site’s location in a wellhead protection area, with assurances that no hazardous waste would be discharged on the premises.

Parking adequacy and lighting were discussed extensively. The facility’s peak hours would require five of the 20 available parking spaces, and the applicant committed to addressing any future parking issues by returning to the board if necessary. Lighting practices will remain consistent with the previous tenant, with parking lot lights off by 10:00 PM.

The board also approved a site plan application for a new tenant, Admiral Metals, on Aaron Way. This tenant will occupy 12,920 square feet of the existing 27,000 square foot building to warehouse metal stock, including aluminum, brass, bronze, and copper. Discussions highlighted the necessity for additional landscaping due to recent ordinance changes and the adequacy of parking, with 20 spaces available and an estimated need for nine.

Admiral Metals’ operations will not involve retail transactions, focusing instead on wholesale distribution to large clients like Thor Labs and GE. The facility will receive three to five tractor trailer loads per week, with delivery trucks operating only during business hours. Environmental impacts, including hazardous material storage and noise levels, were addressed, with assurances that no such materials would be stored on-site and operations would be quiet.

The board deliberated the need for additional landscaping and confirmed compliance with updated 2022 ED Zone regulations. Concerns about the site’s impervious coverage, which exceeds the allowable limit, were raised but remained unresolved as no modifications to the existing site plan were proposed.

Further, the board examined an application for a new tenant on Gale Court, where Branstone of New Jersey Inc. aims to convert a vinyl printing facility to a porcelain fabrication operation. The applicant assured the board that the process involves light cutting, with water used in cutting recycled through a dehydrator to prevent environmental contamination. The board emphasized the need for a maintenance plan and a landscape plan as conditions for approval.

Parking adequacy and noise levels were points of concern, particularly regarding the adjacent preschool. The applicant’s representative reassured the board about minimal noise generation and clarified that unloading and loading would occur inside the building. Proper disposal of waste and compliance with environmental regulations were also discussed to ensure no negative impacts on local water supplies.

The board’s discussions extended to the PDRM 2 zone, focusing on aligning its requirements with other zones and addressing issues like building size limits and impact statements. The need for immediate action versus waiting for the master plan review was debated, with a consensus to continue evaluating the zone’s regulations to prevent potential problematic developments.

Finally, updates from the Town Council included the passage of an ordinance for funding a new playground at Station Park and a resolution to replace the artificial turf at Unerman Field, reflecting ongoing community initiatives.