Diana Gonzalez from Clark, representing the Clark Reservoir Committee, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to voice resident opinions. She highlighted the committee’s efforts to gather feedback and mentioned a draft proposal in development to reflect community input. Gonzalez advocated for a vision that includes peaceful, minimally structured natural spaces, referencing the Great Swamp as an ideal example. She urged the county to incorporate features like dredging and passive recreation, such as walking paths and fishing piers, into the development plan.

Alan Swanson, chair of the Sierra Club’s local group, raised concerns about the environmental impacts of the proposed project, particularly regarding the alteration of existing forests. He emphasized the importance of considering climate impacts and urged the commissioners to prioritize environmental protection over invasive developments. Swanson opposed plans that would remove old-growth forest and suggested eco-friendly initiatives instead of constructing recreational facilities that could harm the ecosystem.

Prita Bishani from Rahway echoed these sentiments, urging the commissioners to remove active recreational components from the development plan. She criticized proposed features like deforestation for a carousel building and a skating rink, arguing that most residents oppose these developments. Bishani suggested reallocating project funds towards enhancing existing natural spaces, implementing green infrastructure, and fostering educational opportunities about local wildlife for children. She appealed to the commissioners to protect natural habitats for future generations, emphasizing that children are more inspired by wildlife than synthetic recreational amenities.

Residents consistently highlighted the need for transparency and public engagement in the planning process. One speaker noted that public meetings had not been held before the submission of permits in April. They requested that the most updated version of the project proposal be made available on the Union County website at least one week before any future open house meetings and that physical copies be displayed at both Clark Town Hall and the Administration Building. They criticized the public-facing version of the map dated June 28, 2024, noting several omissions and inconsistencies.

Concerns about the environmental impact were echoed by Claire Le Bruno from Clark, who questioned the transparency of the planning process. She noted the lack of public display of the proposal prior to the meeting and criticized the county’s perceived lack of commitment to conservation. Ron Ordner from Clark emphasized the importance of prioritizing dredging at the reservoir, citing previous assessments indicating moderate to severe impairment.

Gloria Bowski, another resident, opposed the proposed development plans, advocating instead for focusing on remediating the water body. She criticized plans to remove trees for recreational features like a carousel and a train, arguing that these developments would harm relatively untouched areas of Union County.

Christina D. Luisa from Clark reiterated concerns about the environmental impacts of proposed developments, specifically criticizing the addition of impervious surfaces that would harm local wildlife. She suggested alternatives that would enhance the natural environment, such as a fishing pier or bird-watching area. Luisa also opposed the proposed boat ramp at Wendell Place, citing safety concerns due to the proximity of children in the neighborhood and potential traffic increases.

Residents called for transparency and environmental assessments, urging the board to reconsider plans that would impact the local ecosystem. The overarching sentiment was one of concern for preserving natural areas over introducing new recreational developments.

In addition to the Clark Reservoir discussions, Bruce Patterson from Garwood criticized the county’s response to state oversight regarding financial misconduct allegations. He expressed astonishment at the state comptroller’s recommendation to Governor Murphy to hold back state funding to Union County, referencing ongoing legal disputes. Patterson supported the Clark Reservoir committee’s efforts to halt deforestation and questioned specific resolutions on the agenda, including a $700,000 engineering contract related to the Safe Streets project.

The board also discussed various resolutions, including Resolution 2024-561, which involved a contract awarded to WSP to prepare a countywide safety action plan. Resolution 2024-563 pertained to an agreement with the Borough of Garwood for safety improvements at an intersection, while Parks Director Vicky Drake announced plans to expand parking at Zimmerman Park.

Deputy County Manager Amy Wagner clarified that the county was not donating funds to any projects but had undergone an RFP process using federal funds. Commissioners also highlighted ongoing community activities, such as the Family Fun and Flicks series and the availability of farmers market vouchers for eligible seniors.