This message from Marc Colyer has been posted on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/948147208544075/permalink/1427880190570772/
At the May 17th council meeting they will be discussing changing the
Master Plan/Zoning to allow high density housing on the historic
Vanderbeck property. In my opinion this is not what Fair Lawn needs. The history of both the Naugle and Vanderbeck properties dates back to
when American Indians lived there. The Naugle and Vanderbeck homes were
built before the American Revolution and are on maps that were used by
the Continental Army to defeat the British. Both homes are on the State
and National Registry of Historic Places. Gen. Lafayette supposedly had
his HQ at the Vanderbeck house.
The historic value should be enough to do whatever it takes to save the properties, but its not.
It’s also an environmentally sensitive area. The NJDEP classifies it as
a "Well head protected area" meaning the rain that falls there helps
supply us with clean drinking water. It also supports varied species of
animals. Adding more impervious coverage will not doubt lead to more
runoff and increased flooding. Any development leads to increased
pollution.
Many people have fought long and hard to save the
Naugle house. The Boro/County has spent millions of our tax dollars to
procure, preserve, and restore it. However, the development plan calls
for a road to be built very close to the Naugle house, such heavy
construction could easily compromise the 260+ year old structure. On
paper both homes are saved, but in reality building a town home unit
next to the Vanderbeck house could jeopardize its stability. We could
end up losing both homes. Do we need more traffic at Saddle River Rd. and F.L. Ave, do we need more stress on our water and sewage system?
Attend the May 17th Council meeting and let your voice be heard.
