One of the primary topics at the meeting was the commission’s plans for the property on Pearl Street. The commission drafted and approved a letter of recommendation for the site after making a correction to the runoff calculation.

The integration of Scout projects into the commission’s environmental efforts was another focal point. The commission explored potential collaborations with both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts for river cleanups and other initiatives. The timing of these activities was debated, with a consensus that fall might be a more opportune time for cleanups, given the increased visibility of litter after the vegetation dies back. The challenge of tracking and recording items collected during these events was also acknowledged.

In addition to local efforts, the commission discussed the New Jersey Clean Communities Council’s events, expressing interest in participating in the organized cleanups scheduled for spring and fall. The commission deliberated on the benefits of setting specific goals for the amount of litter and trash collected during these events, although opinions varied on the best approach to this.

The community garden emerged as another point of interest. The garden recently hosted an educational event for children from local schools, underlining the commission’s engagement with younger generations. However, the garden also faced practical concerns, such as the need for repairs to a path constructed by a Boy Scout. The commission considered soliciting Scout help for both minor and major projects within the garden, further cementing the symbiotic relationship between the commission’s environmental endeavors and Scout community service.

The meeting also covered the Storm Ordinance and MS4 Education Status, noting the upcoming storm season due by June and a current lag in participation. The commission proposed initiatives to boost reporting of drain cleanings by residents, including a campaign and reporting methods. Tying this initiative to a newsletter and determining the right timing for its launch were also on the agenda.

Sustainable Jersey actions for the 2024 Green Pledge were updated, with some participants signing up for the pledge.

The possibilities for involving schools in community clean-up events were examined, with members voicing concern over the amount of downtime students have, particularly in the latter part of the school year. While there was a clear interest in organizing clean-ups during school hours, the commission recognized the potential challenges, including liability issues and the need for adult supervision. The members agreed to continue deliberating on this initiative.

The township newsletter was briefly discussed, with the decline in sightings of lantern flies highlighted as a noteworthy topic. Additionally, the commission reviewed updates on Pickle Brook Park and trails, the RGI Grant, the Wayside Adopt-a-Trail proposal, and the Township Street Fair, all of which contribute to the commission’s holistic approach to environmental management.