A primary discussion topic was the community energy plan, which aims to enhance local energy efficiency and sustainability. Members examined the process of selecting consultants to help develop this plan. A draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was introduced to outline steps for requesting proposals. The commission recognized the challenge of evaluating consultants, noting that the Sustainable Jersey list included firms with varying degrees of relevant experience. They discussed the possibility of a public bid process if initial consultant responses were inadequate. The commission stressed the importance of choosing consultants based on their qualifications and proposed costs, especially given the nominal $10,000 grant allocated for the project.

Public outreach was identified as a componet of the energy plan. Members emphasized that engaging the community would be essential for the plan’s success. They discussed logistics for public meetings. Hybrid meeting formats were also considered to broaden participation. The commission underscored the necessity of incorporating community feedback into the plan and ensuring that public input was reflected in the final report submitted to the township.

Members aimed to send out solicitations promptly, anticipating responses within three to four weeks. The commission also briefly touched on accomplishments for 2025 and goals for 2026, seeking input from members on future objectives.

Another topic was Amazon’s proposal to adjust parking at its facility. The company, initially planning for a larger workforce, faced issues with surplus parking due to increased automation. The proposal involved converting some parking spaces into a trailer parking lot, addressing challenges with managing empty trailers amid port restrictions. The Development Review Committee (DRC) worked with Amazon to refine these plans.

The commission viewed the proposed changes positively, noting the potential environmental benefits of reduced truck traffic. The improvements included enhancing the site’s entrance for safety and aesthetics. Discussions also addressed concerns about the environmental impact and efficiency of these adjustments. Members expressed hope that Amazon’s representatives would uphold their commitments regarding warehouse capacity and truck turnarounds.

The meeting further explored collaborative efforts among towns for stormwater management. The watershed improvement plan, involving cooperation among ten towns in the Upper Millstone watershed, was discussed. The plan aims to reduce total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) and identify pollutants. Members acknowledged the complexities of funding and participation, especially given differences in population density and geographical area. The commission emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in achieving effective water management outcomes.

Additional topics included updates from the parks and recreation division, where no formal report was available. The commission discussed an adopt-a-catchbasin initiative and reminded the Township Committee about related resolutions. The community wildlife habitat certification and the school’s outdoor classroom tour were also mentioned, with plans for tree plantings and maintenance.

The meeting concluded with updates on the Sustainable Jersey program, which is undergoing a revamp, delaying applications until 2026 while allowing ongoing project work. The commission’s chair sought volunteers to fill in during an upcoming meeting, scheduled for December 15, before adjourning the session with a unanimous agreement.