Franklin Environmental Commission Raises Concerns Over Onyx Warehouse Proposal and Pipeline Safety

Overview: The Franklin Environmental Commission meeting focused on the contentious Onyx warehouse proposal, which has been postponed to April 2nd due to the planning board’s inactivity in March. Concerns were expressed about the project’s proximity to pipelines, with Buckeye, the pipeline owner, highlighting potential risks. The proposal, which initially reduced the pipeline distance from 21 feet to 40 feet, faces scrutiny, especially with Somerset Run and Canal Walk organizations contesting the project. The commission doubted the application’s approval, citing logistical issues with tractor-trailer access and the need to import HP soil, complicating pipeline repairs.

Franklin Township Council Debates Fire District Budget and Backyard Chicken Ordinance

Overview: The Franklin Township Council meeting featured discussions on the contentious budget allocations for local fire districts and the introduction of a new ordinance regarding backyard chickens. The meeting included passionate debates over financial assessments, community safety, and urban agriculture.

Franklin Town Council Discusses $750,000 Youth Center Grant and Capital Budget Priorities

Overview: During the recent Franklin Town Council meeting, discussions centered on the allocation of a $750,000 grant from the Department of Community Affairs for the youth center, alongside various capital budget proposals addressing technology upgrades and security enhancements for municipal facilities. The grant has enabled a substantial expansion of the youth center’s programs, though concerns about the sustainability of this funding were raised, as its renewal remains uncertain.

Franklin Zoning Board Scrutinizes Warehouse Proposal and Impervious Coverage Issues

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Franklin (Somerset County) Zoning Board delved into discussions concerning a warehouse project proposed by IDI Logistics LLC on Executive Drive, alongside contentious impervious coverage issues related to existing residential property modifications.

Franklin Planning Board Considers New Notification Protocol Amid Warehouse Development Review

Overview: At a recent Franklin Planning Board meeting, discussions centered on proposed amendments to notification bylaws to ensure public awareness of ongoing applications, alongside a detailed examination of a significant warehouse development by Franklin Development Group LLC, mandated by court order for expedited review. The proposed amendments aimed to address public confusion due to multiple rescheduled hearings, while the development’s compliance with environmental and zoning regulations was scrutinized.