Meeting Recap: Public comment period dominated by development concerns; Eagle Scouts receive proclamations and new senior services are announced.

Nicholas Mistretta

Montgomery Honors Local Eagle Scouts for Community Service Projects 

The Township Committee  took a moment to recognize the outstanding achievements of three local Eagle Scouts with official proclamations. Abhitej Kanuri was honored for his installation of interpretive signage and 150 blue and orange trail markers along the Stonebridge Trail, enhancing both navigation and public understanding of the park’s history and layout. Vikramaditya Rajput received commendation for his work at the Animal Alliance of New Jersey, where he designed, constructed and installed four benches and two tables to improve the outdoor adoption meeting area. Abhiram Muppalla was recognized for constructing and installing three durable, weather-resistant benches at the Sri Venkateswara Temple and Community Center in Bridgewater, providing lasting benefit to the community.

Public Comment: Kenvue Property Draws Scrutiny
The meeting drew a strong public turnout, with most comments centered on the inclusion of the Kenvue property in the Township’s Fourth Round Affordable Housing Plan. Residents raised a range of concerns, including transparency, development density, local zoning control, and potential conflicts of interest.

Christina Feja opened the public comment portion with questions regarding the Kenvue site, asking why a property located outside of the state’s designated growth center was included in the plan and whether it might set a precedent for further development in that area. She also asked for clarification on the future of the 125 acres being transferred to the Township—specifically, whether it would remain preserved or be used for additional housing.

Committeeman Dennis Ahn acknowledged the public frustration and outlined the rationale behind the Kenvue decision.

“We don’t take this decision lightly,” Ahn said. “Kenvue is the town’s single, largest taxpayer, contributing $1.4 million annually. We tried hard to find another tenant—we could not.” Ahn added that Kenvue had already initiated discussions about a possible tax appeal, arguing the property’s value has declined. “This is not the outcome we hoped for, but we’re doing our best to make the most responsible decision for our town, financially, logistically, and morally.”

Maria Kauzmann voiced concerns about the project’s density and the loss of a valuable commercial ratable. “The burden is all on us,” she said, referencing the fiscal impact on residents.

Devra Keenan criticized the timeline and communication process. “Yes, the state should have given towns more time—but you had six months to bring the public in on this. That’s shame on you,” she said. Keenan also noted that the Kenvue property was not part of the state’s original 1.95% of developable land.

Neeta Gusain, a resident of East Ridge Road, expressed frustration that the Kenvue site backs up to her home. She questioned why, if Township officials were monitoring Facebook, information about the project wasn’t posted there. Gusain also raised concerns about a perceived conflict of interest with Deputy Mayor Vincent Barrigan, a Johnson & Johnson employee. Deputy Mayor Barrigan responded, stating he had received both internal and legal clearance and that there is no conflict of interest.

Multiple residents, including Michele Parise and Tracy Lukey, pointed to what they perceived as a lack of transparency. “I wish one of you—or all of you—would own your mistake,” Parise said. Lukey urged the Township to involve residents more fully in decisions. “Don’t tell us what’s going to happen—please ask,” she said.

Ellen Robbins of Hollow Road called attention to transportation access, urging planners to consider proximity to supermarkets and public transit when siting affordable housing. “The Kenvue site may not be the best choice,” she said.

Nancy Castelino argued that the Kenvue site’s inclusion was not required under the state’s methodology and raised additional concerns about using rural-zoned land, which she said could set a dangerous precedent. She also questioned Mayor Neena Singh’s dual role on the Planning Board during the application process. 

Skillman resident Chris Newman commented that even the appearance of a conflict of interest can damage public trust.

Offering a different perspective, Om Sharma of Skillman praised the Township’s efforts, saying, “In my opinion, the Township is taking sensible steps—first by joining the lawsuit and second by making sure we are in compliance while doing so.

Other Topics Raised
Outside of the Kenvue discussion, Ms. Kohli of Skillman inquired about the possibility of establishing a commuter bus stop in Montgomery to serve residents who work in the New York City, Jersey City, and Weehawken areas. She noted that while there is currently a stop in neighboring Hillsborough, having one in Montgomery would offer significant convenience — not just for business professionals, but also for students commuting for internships or attending college. Such a service, she emphasized, would benefit a wide cross-section of the community.

Former Mayor Sadaf Jaffer used the comment period to correct what she calls a factual inaccuracy posted to the Township’s official social media account, which claims Mayor Neena Singh to be the first Indian American woman to serve as mayor in New Jersey. Jaffer noted that “two Indian American women have served as Mayors in New Jersey prior to Mayor Singh. Both myself and Eman El-Badawi of Cranbury. Both of us are Indian American women.”

Elizabeth Roedell and Rupali Chakravarti, both residents of South Brunswick Township, urged the Montgomery Township Committee to support Resolution 25-7-234. The resolution opposes the construction and installation of the proposed Compressor Station 206, a component of the Williams Transco Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) Project. Both speakers also voiced broader opposition to the entire NESE proposal, citing environmental and public health concerns.

Business Administrators Report
Lori Savron provided updates on several community initiatives. She announced that the Senior Curbside Pickup program officially launched on July 1st, with 81 seniors already enrolled. To assist those who may have difficulty bringing items to the curb, Senior Club coordinator Lou Vaccaro is reaching out to local Boy Scout troops for support. Deputy Mayor Vincent Barrigan recommended also involving the Girl Scouts to broaden assistance efforts. Additionally, Savron shared that work will soon begin on upgrading the cricket pitch at Broadway, converting the surface from clay to concrete. Weekend reservation time slots for residents are expected to become available in the near future.

Photo Credit: Nicholas Mistretta/headlinenewsmontgomery.com