MINUTES OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
April 3, 2002
Members Present:
Blanche D. Hoffman, Robert Sommers, Owen Henry, Wayne Farmer, Andrew Crabb, Perry Simone
Excused Absence:
Susan Knauf, Cindy Bell
Absent Member:
Gary Szelc
Guest:
Andrew Snyder; Registered Environmental Health Specialist, Middlesex County Public Health Department.
1. APPROVAL OF March 6, 2002 MINUTES
Wayne Farmer amended the minutes to read: Wayne Farmer indicated that the Open Space Committee is concentrating on prioritizing properties. The Open Space Task Force will identify an open space plan that will aid in the identification of open space areas and greenways that can be used for hiking, biking and non-motorized transportation. Motion to approve the minutes as amended was moved by Robert Sommers, seconded by Perry Simone, all in favor.
2. BILLS OUTSTANDING
No bills to date.
Andrew Crabb gave a summarization on his report - ANJEC Make a Difference Training Course - which he attended March 23, 2002. The four topics discussed were Environmental Commission Powers and Responsibilities; NJDEP Grants; Master Plans and Environmental Ordinances; Creating or Updating an Environmental Resource Inventory.
Blanche Hoffman will obtain copies of the Township ERI to be sent to Wayne, Andrew and Perry.
The ANJEC Site Plan and Subdivision Check List will be sent to the OBEC members.
Perry Simone attended the training course as well and will submit his report at the next OBEC meeting.
3. GREENWAY PLANNING PHASE III ACQUISITION
Blanche Hoffman reported that this grant was denied due to the many applications considered. As stated in a letter from Joseph Rogers, program coordinator for Environmental Services Program, the applications are based on the criteria outlined, rank and score. The environmental commission will resubmit in the next round.
4. EARTH DAY
To be held April 20, 2002 at Cheesequake Park between 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. Members of the OBEC will participate.
5. OPEN SPACE TASK FORCE
Wayne Farmer summarized the meeting held March 19, 2002 (copy attached with meeting agenda). The next meeting will be held April 16th, at which time discussion on an outline for what should be contained in the open space plan; discussion on a possible field trip through the township to look at open space areas.
6. URBAN FORESTRY
Blanche Hoffman reported that funds are available through the Middlesex County Urban Forestry Committee for tree planting projects. No action was taken by the OBEC.
7. PLANNING
107-00P Cornell Disposal (recovery and transfer station)
The OBEC will send objections on this application referencing original response dated September 6, 2001.
108-02P - Gary Martin
The OBEC will send a memo supporting the idea that construction conform to existing zoning and the existing zoning and the subdivision of non-conforming properties be discouraged.
7-02P - T&JK Associates
The OBEC will respond to the planning board with concern on the application.
8. ZONING
15-00Z - Legacy Grande (concept plan)
The OBEC will respond to the zoning board proposing that revised plans should also have a revised impact statement. The area has environmentally sensitive wetlands. High density housing will create the need for impervious surface, which will impede groundwater recharge. The concept plan shows a major impact on the wetlands and the flood plains. The OBEC believes the property be left as open space.
29-02Z - Route 9 Plaza
The OBEC did not have an opportunity to review for comment.
119-01Z - Kara Homes - mixed use
The OBEC commented to increase buffers between the adjoining properties and improve the landscaping by increasing the amount and size of trees. The OBEC suggests a pocket size park for residents for passive recreational use on the site.
9:40PM--Motion to adjourn the meeting was moved by Owen Henry, seconded by Robert Sommers, all in favor.
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