Concerned Citizens of Middle Township Organize

In response to the township’s proposed plan through Conifer Realty T/A Middle Twp. Housing Association to build an additional affordable housing facility at 8 Railroad Ave in Cape May Court House, several township residents have banded together in opposition.
Concerned citizens’ spokesperson, Eileen Fausey, outlined the history of this controversial project. Five years ago, the site in question went before the zoning board in an attempt to apply for a variance approval. Because many spoke against it at that time, the project never materialized. Now, however, the township, based on what Fausey relayed, decided to “change the laws,” providing the developer with a brand new application, and moving forward with a signed contract.
Moreover, while concerned citizens attended township committee meetings, they felt as if their voice was not heard. According to them, they have not been permitted a hearing, which would include a sworn testimony, different from public comment ordinarily allowed at township meetings. They consider this as a “denial of due process.” They also sought consideration from environmental experts.
Fausey said, “The testimonials of 19 environmentalists were completely ignored,” during the public comment portion of past meetings.” Some of the concerns noted were the destruction of endangered species, notably the Cope’s Gray Tree Frog and the Tiger Salamander. In addition, the particular site is surrounded by forest and within feet of a federally protected preserve. As a result, concerns for fire were also expressed.
In terms of water, mention was made about the inevitable changes in ground and surface water that could potentially lead to vernal pools drying up and create runoff chemical contamination. A few of the environmental groups offering opposition to development are the Federal Fish and Wildlife, the Littoral Society, and the Audubon Society. Beyond the environment, other legitimate concerns mentioned were the impact on traffic, public safety, schools and property taxes.
Because they feel their concerns have been so far ignored on a local level, The Concerned Citizens of Middle Township are seeking help from CAFRA (Coastal Area Facility Review Act), a state agency, and potentially perhaps the federal government, as this matter affects federal lands. They submitted a letter in August to CAFRA, with a copy to the Herald, requesting the hearing they have long desired as well as a comprehensive investigation. As stated in the letter submitted, “We are requesting an opportunity to give testimony to a board that has the interest of environmental sensitivities, over the interest of profit.”
Eileen Lausey said that she found it perplexing the very land preserved by the government through our tax dollars, is also potentially being destroyed by our taxes with this development project. This facility would be considered a pilot program. The developer is applying for tax credit and would be potentially exempt from property taxes. “Taxpayer dollars were used to preserve the surrounding site, and taxpayers want a say in its survival,” said Fausey.
The Herald attempted to contact the township for comment late Friday afternoon. Township officials were unavailable. A representative from the township construction department said, “All I can say is, we do not have a building permit yet.”
CAFRA is now formally accepting objections in writing. Eileen and the members of the Concerned Citizens of Middle Township encourage other residents to vocalize their disdain for this project by forwarding similar letters of concern as soon as possible to CAFRA at linda.fisher@dep.state.nj.us.