To the editor
I attended the Planning Board meeting of Dec. 6. At that meeting, I tried unsuccessfully to present to the board what I consider to be serious deficiencies and errors in the Environmental Impact Statement and the Storm Drainage Report for the Bibeau development currently planned for the western section of the township.
I am concerned that because of these errors it is impossible to develop a suitable plan for this property that does not seriously jeopardize the safety and health of the township residents that currently inhabit the junction of Montgomery and Wertzville roads.
Following a lengthy presentation by the developer on Nov. 8 with only a single item of public comment, the chairman professed a desire by the board not to inhibit the input of all the citizens of Hillsborough and that we would be afforded time at the next meeting.
To my surprise, on Dec. 6, following another presentation by the developer, instead of recognizing me so that I could have input in the process which will directly effect me, my family and my neighbors, I was unceremoniously told to "Sit down and be quiet." I continued to try and be recognized and was finally deferred to Mr. Fodale, a consulting engineer, to address my concerns outside of the meeting.
I must decline this invitation for the following reason: At the Nov. 8 meeting, Mr. Fodale said over an open microphone "I don’t understand why these people are so upset, it’s only six houses." I believe that this statement clearly demonstrates Mr. Fodale’s bias towards development and he cannot fairly address my concerns and should recuse himself from any further discussions on this application.
This situation identifies what I consider to be an underlying problem of bias for development at the planning board at the expense of the rights of people living in the adjacent effected areas. I have found this suprising since a number of the members of the board have run for public office on a platform of "Open Space and controlled development."
Consequently, I will continue to try and be heard in open forum at the next board meeting. Perhaps your next words to me will be "Stand Up and be heard."
Montgomery Road