A key point of contention during the meeting was the extension of the proposed tree protection ordinance to encompass private properties, a move that appeared to surprise some commission members. The debate revealed a lack of consensus on this issue, with differing opinions on whether the township committee had adequately discussed the inclusion of private property. Concerns were voiced about the broad exemptions for tree removal that could potentially lead to a significant reduction in the tree canopy in certain areas. The importance of trees in stormwater management was underscored, with members agreeing on the urgency of the issue due to related deadlines.

Specific sections of the ordinance, such as hazard tree determinations and the applicability of exemptions, were also scrutinized. The discussion extended to whether the commission should employ a licensed tree expert to assess the impact of trees on infrastructure, such as foundations and sidewalks, and whether the ordinance’s tree replacement requirements needed additional refinement.

Enforcement and compliance emerged as concerns. The adequacy of proposed penalties for non-compliance and the capability of monitoring were questioned. The debate touched upon the existing enforcement mechanisms for tree work conducted by licensed tree experts and the necessity for raising public awareness about the new regulations.

In response to the complexities raised, there was a proposition to form a subcommittee tasked with further examining the ordinance and suggesting amendments before advancing it to the Township Committee. This move hinted at a desire among some commission members for a more review to ensure the ordinance effectively strengthens tree protection for the town.

Aside from ordinance discussions, the commission addressed the practical aspects of tree maintenance, particularly in Village Park on Main Street. It was noted that the young trees planted for beautification purposes had been neglected, and there was unanimous agreement on the need for structural pruning. Pending tree inquiries, including those related to tree removal on private property and replanting initiatives, were also a topic of conversation. The commission confronted the challenge of sourcing seedlings for the upcoming Arbor Day celebration due to the unavailability of seedlings from the New Jersey Forest Service Nursery and considered alternative suppliers like the Arbor Day Foundation.

The meeting covered the commission’s intention to enhance public engagement through educational programs, including tree walks in collaboration with local schools and community outreach at the library. Plans for a designated area to populate with trees and remove invasive plants were discussed, which would require expert consultation and cost estimation. The annual Arbor Day event was mentioned, emphasizing the importance of accreditation and the commission’s role in organizing future workshops and training sessions.

Furthermore, the commission contemplated the update of the recommended tree list, adding species like Yellowwood and creating a “do not plant” list to guide residents away from invasive species. Efforts to make the list more accessible and informative were debated, including how to explain the list’s intent and provide comprehensive references.

The commission also tackled the website’s content, focusing on the need to update references for tree planting and to make information related to the public right of way and tree inventory more accessible to residents. Discussions about the website included debate over consolidating references into a single tab and the timeline for these updates.