The proposed subdivision on Franklin Boulevard was a point of contention. The plan to cut down several trees to make way for housing led to a debate over the number of trees to be replanted. Questions arose about the variance needed for the project, the lot frontage requirements for each home, and the discrepancies in the tree replacement plan.

Additionally, the commission engaged in a discussion on Kmart’s plan to construct a new building in Franklin. A member raised concern regarding the necessity of a new building when a previously occupied structure remained vacant, and the area was not zoned for residential use. The commission also considered the impact that the shift towards online shopping has had on traditional retail spaces and the environmental and safety implications of the proposed development.

The meeting also featured a conversation about the Community Energy Plan, focusing on the inclusion of micro-mobility and the Fleet inventory. Deliberation ensued over the necessity of listing vehicles with electric vehicle replacements and the availability of grant funding. Members expressed differing opinions regarding the plan’s level of detail, with some advocating for a more comprehensive approach while others suggested a more general outline.

Public comments on the Community Energy Plan were reviewed, with members voicing concerns about the plan’s level of detail and content. The commission debated the relevance of data such as the average cost of home and rent in Franklin Township to the Energy Efficiency plan. Discussions also extended to the consideration of electric vehicles and the township’s potential move towards electrification. The necessity of certain figures and data in the Energy Efficiency plan, such as the average cost of home and rent in Franklin Township, was questioned by some members for its relevance. The commission deliberated on including discussions about bicycling to work and the micro-mobility study, with a suggestion to reference the pathways and trails plan instead.

Land use policies and planning were also on the agenda, with members questioning the inclusion of certain initiatives in the Energy Efficiency plan, pondering whether they should be moved to the background of the report. The feasibility and effectiveness of conducting additional energy audits were debated, with concerns about the potential for insignificant savings. The approach to reaching the energy outreach campaign’s objectives was discussed, with suggestions to engage the community through churches, social organizations, and involving high school students. Uncertainty surrounded the inclusion of non-profit organizations in the commercial Energy Efficiency section, as the data primarily focused on residential, commercial, multifamily, and industrial properties.

The potential construction of a new Food Bank building and a new YMCA were topics of discussion, with concerns about the uncertainty of these developments and their relevance to the document. Furthermore, the commission considered outreach events for the community energy plan, including the potential for virtual and in-person sessions, and the inclusion of initiatives such as energy storage and microgrids in the plan.

The commission acknowledged the work of Marie and Stan at the Frankford High School Green Fair, commending their significant engagement with attendees. A partnership with the “We Love You” Foundation for an environmental project in NE Williams Park was considered, raising questions about funding and possible use of the shade tree commission fund. Additionally, the commission discussed collaborating with the SJPS on an energy efficiency grant, which entailed a kickoff meeting and a website development.

Preparations for upcoming tabling events were also a topic of concern. The commission debated the need for table coverings and promotional materials, including door hangers and flyers. They contemplated the use of a table skirt made of natural material, windproof, yet raised concerns about size limitations and visibility of the commission’s logo. Storage solutions for promotional materials were sought, and there was deliberation over potential films for a screening at the Franklin Day event on September 28th, with “Asbestos City” favored for its local relevance.

Lastly, the commission touched on green infrastructure projects, the Rail to Trails initiative, and concerns about the increasing number of warehouses, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural environments. During the public comment section, residents expressed concerns about environmental preservation and overdevelopment and suggested exploring underground development as an alternative.