Art Bernard somehow withstood over an hour of challenges over his competence as an expert witness, at the AH Planning Board last night (6/22). A roll-call vote of the board nevertheless passed, allowing him to speak as a witness and not a common lobbyist. The board admonished to nervous objectors and public that the board would uphold their confidence and not be naïve.
Art Bernard loudly and clearly recited his prepared text.
The following stands out in my memory of the event:
- Art Bernard does not know the town size, population, or zoning in Atlantic Highlands
- Mr. Bernard resigned his position in Tinton Falls after being told he did nothing wrong.
- The proposed Hovnanian development on the McConnell property serves the requirements of COAH.
- The density of the development will not have negative consequences.
- There are no downside points to the Hovnanian development plan.
- Atlantic Highlands has not submitted a real COAH plan.
- Art Bernard has not read the current Atlantic Highlands COAH plan.
- The proposed development on the McConnell property provides the public access to the beach.
- From the proposed development, the public can walk from end to end of the town.
- The poroposed development fits in with the rest of town, but is completely different.
In retrospect, Bernard's testimony appeared to lack verifiable content.
Without verifiable statements made from a place of common respect, dialog cannot take place.
Without dialog, decisions will always be interpreted as caprice and litigation is inevitable.
What a waste.
Sincerely,
Joel DeWitt
Atlantic Highlands, NJ
