During a recent government meeting, community member Miss Griggis voiced strong opposition to a proposed warehouse development near her home in the Hearthstone community of Hillsborough. Griggis, a long-time resident and retired senior managing director, expressed deep concerns about the potential impact of the warehouse, which is set to measure 270 feet wide, 501 feet deep, and 38.4 feet high, totaling approximately 130,000 square feet.

Griggis highlighted that the proposed warehouse, which would operate 24/7, could significantly disrupt the quality of life for the 185 homes in Hearthstone. She detailed the anticipated issues, including increased traffic, noise, and safety hazards, particularly given the narrow roads leading to the site. Griggis recounted a near-collision with a tractor trailer on Weston Road, emphasizing the dangers posed by large trucks navigating tight intersections in the area.

The proposed development has raised alarms not only for residents but also for local safety officials. Griggis pointed out that the traffic report submitted by the warehouse's proponents failed to adequately address safety concerns, focusing solely on vehicle counts without considering the implications for pedestrians and local traffic patterns. She noted that the report did not account for the proximity of Sunnymeade School, which is located just a mile from the proposed site.

Griggis also questioned the lack of a clear business plan from the applicant, Miracle Brands, which has seen rapid growth since its inception in 2019. She argued that without a comprehensive operational strategy, the community cannot assess the true impact of the warehouse on local infrastructure and safety.

The meeting underscored the tension between development and community safety, with Griggis calling for a thorough review of the potential consequences of the warehouse on Hillsborough and neighboring Manville. As the planning board continues to evaluate the application, residents remain vigilant, advocating for their concerns to be prioritized in the decision-making process.