The session opened with a presentation regarding the community energy plan and the possibility of securing grants, a topic that dominated the initial proceedings. The former chairman, Fred Brody, along with Ben Harvey, presented details about the grants offered by the Board of Public Utilities. The commission learned of an initial grant of $10,000, which could potentially lead to a more significant sum of $250,000 for the implementation of the energy plan. This plan is designed to encompass a range of initiatives including energy efficiency, transportation, and community outreach. Commissioners inquired about the plan’s duration and whether public transportation initiatives were included. The presentation concluded with an offer of assistance in applying for the grants.

Following the presentation, commission members engaged in a discussion about the grant application process. The dialogue revolved around the merits of pursuing the grant and the need for official approval to proceed. Questions were raised regarding the role of the Board of Public Utilities in the grant program and how the commission would be compensated for their work if the grant were secured. Additionally, updates to the commission’s website were considered, particularly the inclusion of a reporting form for odor issues related to a reclamation center.

The management of urban forestry emerged as a point of debate. The commission examined the prospect of conducting a tree audit and the requirements for urban community forestry accreditation. The use of a data collection tool known as “treey” for this purpose was discussed, as well as the implications of the tree ordinance. This included the commission’s authority to plant trees on town property and the potential to bill homeowners for such costs. The discussion also addressed how the commission could deal with trees in poor condition on private property.

Furthering the environmental stewardship theme, the responsibility of the town concerning trees on public property was a notable topic. The debate considered whether the town should take on the cost of removing trees on public property by dispersing the expense across all town residents. Concerns were aired about the absence of a program for maintaining trees planted by the town, and the risks posed by a lack of maintenance. The potential for revising the town’s tree ordinance to correspond with the state’s model tree removal and replacement ordinance was also on the table, with a focus on the need for a unified definition of a tree and consistent regulations for tree removal.

Stormwater management was another issue discussed during the meeting. The stormwater ordinance was described as being in limbo, with specific sites failing to prevent sedimentation from reaching nearby waterways repeatedly. Members reported on lots denuded of vegetation and inadequate sediment controls, which could lead to unwanted water accumulation. In addition, the commission considered updates on impervious cover limits and discussed the formation of a site plan review subcommittee.

Looking ahead to community events, the commission discussed plans for the Green Fest, including organizing a 5K race and establishing fees for vendors. The festival is an opportunity for the township to engage with residents on environmental issues directly. There was also mention of tree distribution and the matter of reopening a bridge within the township.