A point of discussion was a letter from Frank Patrino, attorney for Tri-State Pro Inc., which critiqued the township’s draft housing plan as insufficient. The letter, read into the record, highlighted the discrepancy between the township’s plan for 284 affordable housing units and its actual obligation of 480 units. Tri-State Pro Inc. urged the board to amend the housing plan to include their site, advocating for higher density housing to meet the township’s obligations. The board was reminded of the looming June 30 deadline for submitting the housing plan to the state affordable housing program, emphasizing the need for resolution.

David Novak, the township’s planning consultant, addressed the board and the public, explaining the legal and historical framework surrounding affordable housing in New Jersey. He outlined the township’s established obligation of 480 affordable units, a figure derived from a settlement with an objector after analyzing state data. Novak also detailed the importance of inclusionary developments, which blend market-rate and affordable units, noting that West Windsor mandates 25% of units in such developments be affordable.

Public concerns were a focal point during the meeting, with residents voicing apprehensions about the impact of new developments. A resident highlighted traffic safety issues on Alexander Road, exacerbated by potential high-density housing. They stressed the need for a thorough environmental study due to the proximity to the Delaware and Raritan Canal. Another resident from Canal Road echoed these concerns, pointing out the dangers posed by increased traffic, particularly affecting pedestrians and children using the towpath.

Kathleen Murphy, also from Canal Road, expressed her desire to preserve the mature trees and wildlife habitat bordering her property. She raised concerns about stormwater management, worried that development could worsen existing water issues in her yard. The potential environmental impact of these developments remained a key theme among residents, with calls for careful consideration and studies before proceeding.

The board additionally discussed the township’s spending plan, outlining how affordable housing trust fund resources would be allocated over the next decade. This includes programs for rehabilitation, affordability assistance, and support for low-income households. The timeline for the next steps was also laid out, with the governing body required to endorse the plan following the meeting. The process for addressing potential challenges to the plan was clarified, with a focus on refining zoning ordinances after adoption.

Public input continued with a resident representing a historic neighborhood established for racial integration, who voiced concerns about the potential for the proposed developments to disrupt the community’s character. The resident emphasized the need to limit the scale of developments to maintain safety and community integrity.

Tom Calabria, identified as the chairman of the affordable housing committee, supported the overall plan but cautioned against overdevelopment. He highlighted existing congestion and suggested exploring an all-affordable unit strategy to reduce the need for building additional market-rate units.

Another resident, Dan Fabrigio, criticized the proposed development site’s topography, arguing it was unsuitable for housing due to a steep drop-off. He suggested the township consider acquiring the land for open space to preserve the natural habitat.

Board members assured residents that their concerns were being documented and would be communicated to developers. They noted that while the current plan needed adoption by the end of June, there would be further opportunities for community input before any site plan applications were submitted. The mayor highlighted the township’s legal obligations and efforts to reduce the number of mandated units.