Board rejects drainage plan citing flooding risks for Hearthstone property

In the heart of Hillsborough, New Jersey, the Planning Board convened for a pivotal reorganization meeting on January 9, 2025. As members settled into their seats, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, particularly surrounding a contentious drainage issue that could have significant implications for local properties.

The discussion centered on a proposed development plan that had raised serious concerns among board members and residents alike. An applicant presented plans that, upon scrutiny, revealed a critical error: the drainage system was incorrectly designed to divert water from a natural basin to the Hearthstone Basin. This miscalculation could lead to flooding, as the current plan would redirect water from four acres of permeable land to an area that is now set to become impermeable.

Dr. Emerson, an expert witness, highlighted the potential consequences of this oversight. He explained that the drainage system, designed to handle storms up to a hundred years in intensity, was not equipped to manage the additional water flow from the newly diverted acreage. This could result in significant flooding for the Hearthstone property during larger storms, a scenario that the current design fails to adequately address.

The board was informed that the application did not meet any of the three critical performance standards: it lacked proper water recharge, failed to ensure water quality, and did not adequately analyze peak flow rates. These deficiencies raised alarms about the environmental impact of the proposed changes, as diverting such a substantial drainage area is not a common practice in development projects.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the stakes were high. The potential for increased flooding and environmental degradation loomed large over the proposed development. The board members listened intently, weighing the testimonies and considering the broader implications for the community.

As the session drew to a close, the discussions underscored the importance of thorough planning and environmental stewardship in Hillsborough. The outcome of this meeting could shape the future of local development, ensuring that the needs of the community and the environment are balanced in the face of growth. The board's decision will be closely watched as residents await clarity on how their town will navigate these pressing challenges.