We’ve been here before. Nearly 20 years ago, billionaire Zygmunt Wilf proposed a development on the Watchung Ridge Forest, one of the last remaining swaths of forested land in North Jersey. Nearly 20 years ago, the West Orange Planning Board rejected his request citing public safety and environmental concerns. 20 years later, Wilf has returned with a proposal for a larger development and we are urging the West Orange Planning Board to make the right decision: Say no to Zygmunt Wilf and Garden Homes, and permanently preserve the Watchung Ridge Forest. Wilf’s request comes at a time when New Jersey is in desperate need of affordable housing. In recent years, young people and working families across the state have struggled to keep up with the cost of living, especially housing. For good reason, offering affordable housing options is a top priority for many municipalities across the Garden State. Still, our affordable housing goals cannot come at the expense of public safety and our environment — especially as we face the escalating impacts of climate change. Year after year, the planet warms, the oceans rise, and our storms become more and more severe. During Hurricane Ida, New Jersey experienced record rainfall and devastating flooding. In the aftermath, we spent nearly $200 million in state funds and $800 million in federal grants on aid and recovery. Expert witnesses have testified that the proposed development on the Watchung Ridge Forest would exacerbate erosion and increase flooding in the area, especially during major rain events. With substantial cuts to federal funding, the most vulnerable among us will be forced to foot the bill for any damages and recovery needed after future storms. All that to say: We cannot afford to destroy a mountain. Not now, not ever. The Watchung Ridge Forest provides water quality protection, recreational green space, refuge from the heat island effect, tree canopy, flood protection, and a home for our wildlife. Protecting these forested ridges means protecting ourselves. There are so many other options for West Orange to meet their affordable housing goals. Repurpose unused buildings and lots. Redesign downtown spaces for mixed use. Make existing units affordable. The list goes on. Alternatives exist. No one has spoken in favor of this project over the last 15 public meetings. We urge the Board to choose a future free from flooding, erosion, and the loss of our last core forests. Say no to this damaging proposal, permanently preserve the Watchung Ridge Forest, and pick a more appropriate location for West Orange’s affordable housing projects.