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Habitat for Humanity Churchill lot draws questions about trees and ownership from Franklin commissioners
Summary
Commissioners reviewed a Habitat for Humanity application for a township lot in Churchill and asked for a clearer tree plan and ownership status. Staff said the lot appears township-owned with Habitat as contract purchaser; members pressed for details before approvals advance.
The Franklin Township Environmental Commission on July 20 reviewed a Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity application for a single-family three-bedroom ranch on a narrow Churchill lot and raised questions about tree removal and property ownership.
Staff noted the submission shows two existing trees to remain but commissioners and aerial imagery suggested the lot is largely wooded. "In fact, the town the township owns the lot," the Chair said in describing the application record; staff added that Habitat is listed as a contract purchaser under a developer agreement. Commissioners requested a clearer tree/vegetation plan and explicit information about ownership and timing of any donation or sale before construction begins.
Members emphasized the commission should know exactly how many trees would be removed and whether removal would be by township forces or the developer. "They need variances for frontage," one staff member said, noting the application proposes 50 feet of frontage where 100 is required, and a lot size shortfall was reported. Commissioners agreed to flag the application to the planning board and request a tree plan and confirmation of ownership/contract status.
Next steps: staff will request the applicant provide a tree-planting/removal plan and will flag the application for the planning/zoning board with questions about variances and ownership.
