The Sisters of Christian Charity Property
"This property includes headwaters and groundwater recharge areas, mature forest canopy and wildlife habitat, and historic structures that have been important to this community for generations. It deserves thoughtful, responsible review — not a rushed rezoning."
Four critical concerns
Why this property matters.
The source of our water supply
The Sisters of Christian Charity property is one of the most environmentally sensitive remaining large parcels in Mendham Borough. The 110-acre property serves as a vital drainage basin for McVickers Brook, which feeds directly into the Raritan River — a primary water source for over one million New Jersey residents. The Raritan Headwaters Association indicates that the McVickers Brook drainage area is already facing water quality concerns. Any further high-density development could exacerbate existing instability.
Mature woodland irreplaceable by design
The property supports a mature, unbroken forest canopy developed over decades. Once cleared for development, this ecosystem cannot be replicated.
A landmark of community identity
The Sisters of Christian Charity property includes historic structures that have defined Mendham's landscape for generations. The Motherhouse has been flagged through research and surveys as having potential historic value and is designated as such within the Highlands Council mapping systems. The community deserves full transparency on what is planned for the Motherhouse and to know if its historic integrity has been formally evaluated.
A wildlife corridor under threat
The property is environmentally sensitive on many levels. The site lies entirely within an Agricultural Resource Area and contains important farmland soils. Significant portions of the site support wildlife corridors used by deer and migratory birds, and are critical wildlife habitats for the Indiana Bat and Great Blue Heron. High-density development brings roads, lights, noise, and chemical runoff — all of which fragment habitat and disrupt movement patterns. No infrastructure capacity or wildlife corridor analysis has been completed.
