The grant, aimed at enhancing the township’s recycling efforts, could play a role in advancing Franklin’s sustainability goals. However, details on how the funds will be specifically used remain uncertain, with members expressing a mix of enthusiasm and frustration about the lack of progress on environmental policies, including the tree ordinance and anti-idling regulations.

The tree ordinance amendment sparked extensive debate among the commissioners. Proposed changes include updating the definition of trees from a diameter of 4 inches to 2 and 1/2 inches and revising the 25% cap on in lieu of payment for tree replacement. These amendments are aimed at improving environmental management within the township, but commissioners are concerned about the potential impact on development projects and are seeking more modern methods of tree counting. The lack of response from the township manager on this issue was noted, and a decision was made to send the proposed amendments to the township manager, with copies to the council liaison and the mayor for further consideration.

Another issue on the commission’s agenda was the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs). The commission is planning a presentation to educate residents on the benefits of EVs and is discussing potential speakers, venues, and logistics for the event. The debate included venue availability and potential conflicts with religious observances, as well as strategies to ensure effective communication with residents, such as using the township’s email list and social media, and avoiding emails being marked as spam.

The commission also discussed their involvement in the New Jersey climate action gathering, with members interested in promoting the event but hesitant to commit without specific details. In addition, they reviewed the response from the Youth Council, which conveyed that commissioners could not attend their meetings during crucial planning sessions but suggested a meeting with high school interns later. The commission also addressed a request for a meeting with the youth center development manager, debating the timing and attendees.

Environmental education and community engagement were prominent themes, exemplified by the commission’s plans to screen an environmental-themed movie, “Common Ground,” outdoors in the summer. Concerns regarding logistics were raised, but there was also a suggestion to involve local businesses to foster a community-wide event.

The meeting touched on a range of other topics, including the preservation of an abandoned railway, with plans to reach out to the Rails to Trails National Organization, and progress on the township’s Clean Energy Plan. A micro-mobility study was also a point of discussion, with an approved purchase order and plans for a kickoff meeting involving EC members. Additionally, a commission member shared their testimony at a Joint Senate energy and environment committee.