A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to exploring collaboration opportunities with Richard Robinson, a local resident and ambassador for the New Jersey Watershed Ambassador Program. Robinson presented the program’s objectives of community outreach and environmental stewardship, emphasizing the importance of monitoring stream health through benthic macroinvertebrates. His presentation included visual aids featuring aquatic organisms such as dragonfly nymphs.

Robinson highlighted past initiatives, such as planting 250 trees to commemorate a U.S. anniversary, and suggested including Fair Haven students in similar projects. Members of the commission expressed strong interest in integrating Robinson’s programs into local educational events and discussed the feasibility of involving students in stream assessments and stormwater management education. The idea was proposed to have students present their findings to the community, thereby increasing awareness of local waterways’ ecological health.

Another focal point of the meeting was the commission’s discussion on two proposed ordinances aimed at promoting environmental sustainability. The “Skip the Stuff” ordinance, inspired by similar measures in Mammoth Beach, would require restaurants to offer plastic cutlery and straws only upon request, reducing plastic waste and potentially lowering costs for businesses. The construction dust ordinance seeks to mitigate microplastic pollution from construction sites, holding contractors and homeowners accountable for minimizing airborne debris. The commission unanimously approved a motion to support these ordinances.

Water quality in local waterways, specifically Fourth Creek and the Navis River, was also addressed. Recent high readings were attributed to samples taken post-rainfall, raising concerns about water quality. The commission discussed making water quality data more accessible to the public, with proposals to develop an online dashboard and to encourage Clean Ocean Action to publish its findings more consistently.

In addition to these topics, the meeting encompassed discussions on open space management and community events. There was a call for improved maintenance strategies for local parks and open spaces like Marter Park and the Harding Bird Sanctuary. Suggestions included leaving leaves around tree bases to nourish roots and using wood chips for added protection, though concerns about attracting bees were noted. The commission emphasized the need for a structured communication channel with the Department of Public Works to implement these maintenance practices effectively.

The financial constraints of local governance were debated, particularly in the context of budget cuts affecting maintenance services. Some members expressed frustration over reduced tax revenue opportunities, despite rising property values. Ideas for sustainable practices, like using rain barrels and non-gas-powered equipment, were floated, though it was acknowledged that these would need to be integrated gradually into existing plans.

Community events such as the upcoming “Love Where You Live Day” and the sports swap were announced, with discussions highlighting the need for shade in communal areas. Stormwater management at the community center was also a concern, with proposals to educate residents about the function of a large catch basin on site.

The meeting concluded with updates on an environmental resource guide for homeowners, aimed at promoting sustainable practices and educating residents about eco-friendly improvements. The commission also discussed logistical matters, including procuring environmental literature for the local library, and agreed to revisit topics such as Christmas tree disposal along the shoreline in future meetings.