July 16, 2025, Planning Board Special Meeting Transcript - WEHI

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 94 the Second Watchung Mountain Ridge. Whereas: These 120 acres of impacted forest are significantly out of the West Essex area. And -- Whereas: The forest provides biodiversity groundwater recharge, clean air and common storage. And -- Whereas: This area provides natural habitats for pollenating, birds and other wildlife area -- or wild life. And -- Whereas: This area serves clean water to towns in Essex County communities and reduces flooding and erosion. And -- Whereas: The area serves as a major cooling zone to offset the humidity and effect. And -- Whereas: This area increased open space in an area with little open space. And now therefore be it resolved Essex County Environmental Commission respectfully requests the Township of West Orange reject the proposed housing development and instead permanently preserve the forest on the Second Watchung Mountain Ridge Forest. Thank you. MR. AFRAN: Could you just state the date on that resolution? THE WITNESS: I did not state the date.