The application for a property on Liberty Avenue became the focal point of the meeting due to its potential environmental impact. The site in question involves encroachment on the stream reparian zone, sparking a debate over the conflicting guidelines provided by state and township regulations. The commission examined the extent of the encroachment and discussed the possibility of advocating for remediation efforts within the 25-foot protective zone surrounding the stream. The management of the reparian zone was a concern, with the commission weighing the environmental implications of the proposed development.

In addition to the application issue, the commission turned its attention to the bee activity within the community garden, emphasizing the importance of safety around the beehives. It was noted that gardeners should maintain a safe distance to prevent any incidents. The commission also discussed the storm water ordinance, where changes to the ordinance were debated. One member brought up the need for evidence to verify the commission’s actions in earning points for environmental activities, such as litter clean-ups and workshops on invasive species and rain barrel construction.

Further, the commission’s achievements were highlighted during the meeting, with a specific focus on the upcoming rain barrel workshop. The logistics of barrel availability and transportation were examined in detail. The process of enacting ordinances also came under review, with some ambiguity surrounding the effective date of new legislation. The commission then discussed the adopt-a-drain webinar and the progress of the green pledge, including the creation of a survey via a Google form to gather data. The block party was another topic, with the commission planning the event’s logistics and deciding to finalize details in a subsequent offline meeting.

A diversity action proposal was introduced, yet there was uncertainty about the status of the diversity committee. Other topics included cleanups, tree planting initiatives, and seeking funding for river studies. The commission contemplated writing articles for the township newsletter, focusing on the promotion of electric leaf blowers to reduce the environmental impact compared to gas-powered alternatives. The discussion extended to the B City USA resolution and the involvement of a Township Department, as well as the Union County Bake River Park plans. An outstanding invoice for the Adopt-A-Drain program was acknowledged, and a suggestion was put forward to consider group attendance at town council and board of adjustment meetings to foster a collaborative approach.

The meeting also covered logistical details of upcoming events, such as the street fair on June 9 and an ANC meeting on June 17, which a member noted they would not be able to attend. Updates on scout projects and the state of the community garden, including the new addition of bees, were given brief attention.