The commission examined the plans for Union County Park and noted that tree removal was necessary for the redesign. However, members emphasized the importance of preserving as many trees as possible. To this end, a consensus emerged to recommend the use of pervious surfaces for parking areas and pathways. This approach aims to mitigate environmental impact by allowing water to permeate through the ground, thereby reducing runoff and benefiting the local ecosystem.

One member proposed that the redesign should avoid unnecessary tree removal and that the use of pervious materials would contribute positively to the environment. Following this discussion, a motion was made and seconded to formalize these recommendations, and they will be documented for presentation at the next meeting.

In addition to Union County Park, updates were provided regarding DC 268 on Springfield Avenue. The commission had previously made recommendations, including the planting of trees and adjustments to lighting. The lighting design was scrutinized, with a focus on the need for LED lights that minimize light pollution and direct illumination to the ground. This consideration was highlighted due to the potential negative impact of excessive lighting on local insect populations.

The community garden project was also addressed, with ongoing efforts to secure approval for video surveillance at the court. While there were no substantial updates regarding theft incidents or gate security, the commission acknowledged the importance of these measures for the garden’s safety.

Attention then turned to upcoming events and initiatives. A reminder was given about an Adopt-A-Drain presentation scheduled for the following evening. One of the members was set to speak about the program’s successes and expressed optimism about the event’s timing, noting it should conclude before the start of the presidential debate at 9 PM.

The commission also discussed sustainability efforts, including community cleanups and tree planting initiatives. Although there were no updates regarding the Sustainable Jersey application, members discussed the potential for a fall cleanup. There was hesitation regarding volunteering for the cleanup due to other commitments, particularly concerning the elections. However, the need for a cleanup event was acknowledged, especially in parks where litter accumulates. The fall cleanup was proposed to take place in October or November, with a specific mention of a potential cleanup area near Columbia Avenue.

Additionally, a paper shredding event was scheduled for October, and members emphasized the need to inform residents about this event and encourage participation in the fall cleanup. The conversation also touched upon the Union County Park’s Trail Stewards program, with a meeting scheduled for September 17. Information about this meeting was intended to be included in the upcoming newsletter, although it was noted that the newsletter would be distributed after the meeting date.

Tree planting initiatives were another focal point of the meeting. Members created a list of potential trees for planting both in the right-of-way and at Watchung Reservation. Locations for tree planting had been identified, and responses from residents willing to assist with watering were received. However, concerns were expressed about the Peppertown Park project, which had not progressed as expected. The original plan included ten trees for this area, but the status of the project remained unclear, leading to uncertainty about whether new locations for the trees needed to be found.

Further complications arose regarding the request for proposals (RFP) for tree planting. The need to revisit the dimensions of the fencing and the subsequent implications for rebidding on fencing and irrigation was highlighted. There was also a question about whether debris removal was the responsibility of the county or could be managed through volunteer efforts.

The commission addressed a resolution regarding a volunteer organization and its interaction with the township. A misunderstanding about the role of a township contact led to discussions on how to resolve the issues arising from this misunderstanding. A call for a meeting with Liana was made to clarify the situation before proceeding.