Residents press Lacey committee on Porter Court maintenance, YMCA referendum and development concerns

Several residents used the public comment period at the June 11 meeting to press the Township Committee on development and property‑maintenance issues.

Alisa Waller questioned the denial of the fireworks request at Argos Farm and raised concerns about animal impacts; she criticized the proposed YMCA project (size, finances, and tax‑exempt status), questioned whether the Community Needs Assessment Survey represented the full population, and said homes proposed on Bullard Avenue appeared too closely spaced. Committee members responded that the YMCA proposal would ultimately be decided by voters through a referendum and that the Bullard Avenue development complies with existing zoning.

Pamela Kuhn and Mark Kuhn requested immediate Township action to address overgrown lots and vegetation at the Porter Court development, citing fire, pest and health risks and alleging the developer failed to maintain the property. They asked the Township to cut grass and place a lien; Administrator Laureigh explained the enforcement process, stating that final notices must be issued before Public Works can perform the work and assess costs against the property owner.

Richard Bidnick expressed broad concerns about taxes, traffic, development, and the character of the community; he opposed the YMCA project, questioned potential conflicts of interest involving Mayor Kennis and development matters, advocated privatization of some services, discussed the fiscal impact of the Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption program, and supported prohibiting data centers in the township. Barry Bendar asked whether the YMCA referendum would be binding (the Committee advised it would not be binding) and urged preservation of the historic Worden House.

Committee members answered several questions where possible and noted that the former Community Hall property could not be discussed due to ongoing litigation.