The first application addressed was from Elena Holdings, with James Weber presenting the project. The property, nearing the end of its construction phase, faced scrutiny due to disturbances of steep slopes and tree removal beyond permitted limits. The steep slope disturbance was 3,800 square feet, close to the 4,000 square feet threshold, exacerbated by the removal of tree stumps, which led to the violation. The applicant’s attorney clarified that although a violation notice was issued in March 2024, no stop-work order ensued, and all conditions had since been addressed.

The landscaping plan, prepared by a certified landscape architect, proposed substantial new plantings, including three green giant trees between 20 to 22 feet tall. Weber highlighted that some existing trees, suffering from diseases like needle cast, would be replaced. The proposal included a two-year retention of jurisdiction to ensure the successful establishment of these larger trees.

A board member raised concerns about the previous violations and the construction timeline. It was noted that the foundation had only been poured by the time of the violation notice. Clark, the project engineer, was called to testify, confirming his qualifications and providing detailed information on the property’s conditions, including the steep slopes over 15%. He explained that the initial survey conducted in December 2023 aimed to obtain necessary demolition and tree removal permits.

Further discussion ensued about the effectiveness of the proposed drainage system. The plan involved grading the backyard to manage runoff, introducing a patio beneath a deck, and constructing a wall with an infiltration drain to handle water flow. The proposed increase in impervious coverage raised eyebrows, with an additional 700 square feet planned, but the applicant assured that the drainage strategy would manage runoff effectively, including a 60% increase in storage capacity to account for unknown runoff from neighboring properties.

A public participant, Todd Glassband, questioned the shift in the disturbance limit from an initial 1,000 square feet to the proposed 4,000 square feet. He sought clarity on whether the stormwater management plans had been recommended from the outset, leading to a heated exchange. Despite objections from board members about the relevance of his elaborations, the chairman reminded participants to focus on questions rather than making statements.

The landscape plan, presented by Jared K, a licensed landscape architect, included photo-realistic 3D renderings of the proposed mature landscape. The plan aimed to create a lush, private environment with substantial Arborvitae trees and skip laurels for screening. K emphasized the significance of these trees, noting that the 20 to 22-foot Arborvitae would provide immediate substantial screening. The plan also included a “Secret Garden” area with Cherokee princess flowering dogwoods to enhance the visual appeal.

He noted that the area served as a water retention zone and that preserving trees would be beneficial. The applicant’s representative acknowledged the presence of needle cast on some trees and emphasized the plan’s goal to establish a new ecosystem conducive to the suburban environment.

The meeting also addressed procedural matters, including setting a carry-over date for the application discussion to November 19, amidst concerns about quorum due to the League of Municipalities convention. However, the board expressed confidence in their attendance. The meeting then transitioned to resolutions concerning extensions for other projects, all of which were approved unanimously.