Highlands Council Approves Controversial Warehouse Project on Protected Farmland
The Highlands Council has approved a 900,000-square-foot warehouse project on protected farmland, despite calls for a moratorium. This decision raises concerns about environmental protections, drinking water supplies, and agricultural preservation in New Jersey's Highlands region.

The Highlands Council voted 10-3 to approve a 900,000-square-foot warehouse on the Pohatcong grasslands, disregarding a moratorium request from Governor Mikie Sherrill. This site, classified as environmentally sensitive and critical for water supply, undermines the Highlands Protection Act, which aims to preserve farmland and prevent pollution.
The project raises significant risks including increased stormwater runoff, groundwater contamination, and potential changes in land use to an AI data center or industrial facility. Critics argue this sets a dangerous precedent allowing developers to exploit redevelopment loopholes, threatening New Jersey's drinking water and agricultural heritage. Without intervention, the integrity of the Highlands Act may be compromised, leading to further environmental degradation.




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