The meeting’s primary focus was on stormwater management, a recurring concern in the community. A discussion revolved around a garage construction project at a property on Pron Avenue. The commission recommended that the property owner maintain a 10-foot distance from the property line to ensure effective stormwater management. This recommendation stemmed from concerns about the surrounding wetland, which has poor water penetration capabilities. A member pointed out an error in previous calculations related to stormwater retention, emphasizing the importance of accuracy in such assessments. Additionally, the commission noted that the project should address the protection of existing trees, though the exact number of trees affected remained unclear.

Further stormwater-related issues were discussed concerning a property on Mountain Avenue, where the commission expressed disappointment with the zoning board’s decisions. Members voiced frustration over the current approach to impervious surface calculations, arguing that merely meeting maximum allowed surfaces was insufficient. They stressed the need for improved practices to prevent flooding, a problem exacerbated by inadequate stormwater retention during heavy rainfall.

The commission also turned its attention to community engagement and event participation. Members confirmed their involvement in the upcoming Winter Walk event on December 7th, where they plan to distribute recycling magnets and milkweed seeds. This initiative aims to promote environmental awareness and community involvement. The commission also discussed a drain adoption contest launched on Halloween, encouraging residents to clean leaves from their drains to prevent blockages. Since the contest’s inception, one drain has been adopted, and 17 pounds of leaves have been collected.

Grant opportunities were a significant topic of interest during the meeting. The commission explored the possibility of applying for Green Acres grants to support the maintenance and improvement of green areas, aligning with their objectives of invasive control. They proposed requesting funding for hand tools and potentially a shed for storage, to be located on county property at the Shanley house on Grand Street. The commission agreed to approach the grants committee and the county in parallel to facilitate the application process, which is due by February 5th. Additionally, there was mention of a previous attempt to secure a $110,000 grant that was unsuccessful, prompting the consideration of reapplying for a $20,000 grant. The commission recognized the need for increased engagement from the township to support these efforts.

Environmental concerns extended to the effects of recent drought conditions, with the commission noting the record dryness of October. The extremely low rainfall prompted discussions on fire hazards and tree care. Members suggested drafting a communication to remind residents of the importance of watering new trees, particularly as some neighbors continued to water their lawns but neglected tree maintenance.

The meeting also covered recent clean-up efforts at local parks, where volunteers, including students, worked to remove invasive species and litter. The commission expressed gratitude for the involvement of students and highlighted the need for ongoing management of these natural areas. The delays in planting trees and native plants due to concerns about financial reimbursement from the state were also noted. The township administrator postponed a planting event, intending to reschedule for the spring due to dry conditions.

Lawn care practices, specifically leaf collection, were another discussion point. The commission advocated for the ecological benefits of leaving leaves on the ground or mulching them into the lawn, opposing the notion of maintaining a “perfect lawn.” They critiqued landscaping services for blowing leaves into the street instead of mulching them. Members suggested engaging in dialogue with local landscapers to promote sustainable lawn care practices, emphasizing that mulching leaves could be more cost-effective.