A significant portion of the meeting concentrated on the proposed project on a small island in Lake Mohawk, which involves reducing the buffer zone and replacing a deteriorating wall surrounding the island. Members detailed the construction plans, which include installing a coffer dam to dewater the area during construction and using concrete footings secured with steel for the new wall. Concerns were raised about potential adverse effects on freshwater organisms and the local environment, leading to suggestions for implementing a filtration system to mitigate runoff from adjacent properties into the water. This project prompted a broader discussion about environmental stewardship and the need for careful consideration of ecological impacts in the planning stages.

The commission also addressed issues surrounding affordable housing, particularly a postponed application related to a property at the corner of 517 and Sparta Avenue. This led to concerns about communication gaps, especially when it was noted that the RW component had been removed from the open space plan without prior dialogue. Such omissions in communication stirred discussion among the members about the need for more transparent decision-making processes, particularly when it comes to community developments.

In terms of community engagement, the Master Plan subcommittee reported on their review of survey results, receiving 1,606 responses. Plans were made to meet with various stakeholder groups to focus on areas for improvement. Furthermore, the planning board’s removal of certain elements from the recreation plan, including language about the Rossy and a proposed trail around Morris Lake, was noted. Opposition from Newton, citing Morris Lake as a water source, influenced these changes.

The meeting also highlighted the necessity of forming a Green Team as part of their Sustainable New Jersey certification. A resolution was proposed to include Environmental Commission members on the team, acknowledging the need for a larger group to effectively meet their objectives. Efforts to recruit additional members, including past commission members and new staff from the Department of Public Works, were discussed. The commission is nearing completion of the requirements for this year’s Sustainable New Jersey application, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and environmental advocacy.

Attention then shifted to the scheduling of a quarterly speaker series, featuring Jenna Black, an AmeriCorps New Jersey Water Ambassador. Scheduled to present on February 13, her talk will focus on lead risks in drinking water. The commission agreed to promote the event widely to boost local resident attendance. Additionally, they discussed the potential inclusion of a third speaker, with topics related to native plants being considered due to the proximity of Earth Day.

Recycling efforts were also a topic of discussion, specifically focusing on soft plastics. The community is encouraged to collect 1,000 pounds of soft plastic, which would earn a free bench for Sparta Middle School. Instructions were provided on how residents can contribute, including taking a photo of the weighed plastic and emailing it to Cara Johnson at the middle school. This initiative aims to increase awareness of recycling practices and engage community members in environmental conservation.

Water quality monitoring emerged as another issue. Concerns were raised about high salt levels recorded during a recent drought, threatening local wildlife and water quality. The need for ongoing data collection to address these issues was emphasized, with suggestions for collaboration with neighboring municipalities facing similar concerns. Maintaining detailed records of monitoring sites was highlighted as essential for continuity in data collection efforts.

As the meeting continued, plans for an Earth Day Fair were considered, with potential dates in April and early May being evaluated. The need to avoid scheduling conflicts with holidays and school breaks was discussed, with April 5th and early May emerging as viable options. The possibility of relocating the event to the middle school as a backup plan in case of bad weather was also considered. The event aims to engage the community and raise environmental awareness, with sustainability as a central theme.

In closing, the commission discussed a climate vulnerability assessment required for the master plan, part of Sustainable Jersey’s technical assistance program. They also noted the upcoming 2025 PS Grant cycle, with discussions on reallocating funds for a trails project. The importance of communication and documentation within the trails committee was stressed, with a call for public posting of meeting information.