Township of Fredon
Environmental Commission Meeting Minutes

This meeting was called to order at 7:32 P.M. with the statement that this meeting is in compliance with the Open
Public Meeting Act, Public Law 1975, CH 231, Sections 4 and 13 as advertised by annual notice.  Those present participated in the salute to the flag.  Chairperson for this meeting: Howard Kern

Swearing in of Reappointed Members: L. Lawson, D. Palombi
Members Present: Gibson, Lawson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Vetter, Butz, Kern
Members Absent:  None

Chairperson Appointment – At the January 4, 2010 Township Committee Meeting, Dr. Howard Kern was appointed Chairperson to the Environmental Commission.

Vice-Chairperson Appointment – Mrs. Gibson motioned to elect Mr. Jeffrey Butz as Vice-Chairperson for the Environmental Commission for 2010.  Seconded by Mr. Lawson.  All In Favor.  Opposed: None  So Moved.

MINUTES:   Mr. Ranieri motioned to approve the minutes of  December 7, 2009, seconded by Mr. Butz, with correction to closing motion which was done by Mr. Butz and Dr. Kern (not Gibson & Restuccia), reading was waived.  Roll Call Vote In Favor: Gibson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Butz, Kern  Opposed: None Abstained: Lawson, Vetter  So Moved.

2010 Meeting Dates:  Mr. Butz made a motion to accept the dates as presented for 2010.  Mrs. Gibson seconded.  All in Favor.  Opposed None.  Information will be sent to NJ Herald for publication.

CORRESPONDENCE:  As shown on the attached agenda.  Reviewed Item #2 regarding JCP&L.  Item #4 Solar Lights have been received.  Pictures will be taken of installation in the Spring at Coursen House/Barn.

REPORTS
Planning Board – Revised zoning has been completed.

Sussex County Water Quality Board – (Mr. Butz) No Report. Next meeting will be held on the 2nd Thursday in January.

Paulinskill Pequest Watershed Association – No Report. Mr. Butz informed us that they are still waiting for the report on the headwaters of the Paulinskill.  Nathaniel Sajdak believes it will be several months before report is ready.  However, a grant has already been applied for reconstruction of stream banks as a result of the study.

Open Space – Mr. Lawson mentioned that Mr. Canace will be reviewing WHIP to ensure that we are meeting requirements.

Ridge & Valley Charter School – Mrs. Vetter reported that the students are currently raising trout in the classroom, testing water and life cycle.  Celebrated the winter solstice.  There was a presentation by Brian Swim “11 Powers of the Universe” which was a very interesting.  The school is based on the NJ Core Curriculum, NJ ASK testing and in addition there is standardized testing in the beginning of the school year and at the end of the year to plot academic levels.

Green Team – Still looking for members and/or volunteers.  Working on some ideas for Fredon Day.  ANJEC has a community energy outreach program.  Investigate having the township join (it’s free) and there are programs such as light bulb distribution where the township can actually earn money.  Classes and webinar are available for more information.  For Fredon Day we will request more space to have guests with displays attend.

OLD BUSINESS
PSE&G – ANJEC has an article in their report that the Delaware Water Gap is looking at the environmental impact of the power lines.  The national park service took a stand and they are accepting comments from groups, individuals, townships, to include in their report.  Their study is projected to take 2 years to complete.
 Connecticut has a law in place to prevent such lines from being put in their state.  Mr. Butz will research into the specifics to see what the law states.

Clean Communities – Although the EC received monies from clean communities, that money is not able to be put into the EC account due to the way the commission is structured financially.  We will investigate exactly how our finances are managed and if a change can be made to the way it is structured.  The solar lights will be ordered this month.

NEW BUSINESS
ANJEC/Presentations – Road Shows were discussed.  What type of program if any would we like to sponsor this year.  Perhaps Mr. Canace could do a presentation that would be specific to Fredon Township.  Is there something we could present on Sustainable Jersey and/or energy use?  Mrs. Vetter suggested partnering with the schools and involve the students in some type of project/presentation.  Perhaps the Nature Conservancy could run a program on the threatened and endangered species specific to Fredon.  Mrs. Vetter has seen the Americorp display on how a community affects the water system which was very interesting.  Kittatinny Parks may be able to present information on the trails such as the Paulinskill.  Will be discussed further at next months meeting.  There are also kits available from ANJEC that are free.  We will look into ordering kit #2  EQ Challenge.

Natural Resource Inventory – Mr. Lawson suggested that we update the Natural Resource Inventory.  He will check with ANJEC to see if grant money is available.  The Wander’s will also be contacted for an estimate.  Our inventory was done in July 2003 prior to GIS mapping and the DEP buffers have changed.

Solar Program – Mr. Sappio attended the seminar at Home Depot and found it to be very informative.  There are a number of good programs in NJ for solar.

PUBLIC INPUT - None
 

With no further business to come before the Commission, Mrs. Gibson motioned to adjourn the meeting at 9:00 P.M.
Mr. Butz seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.

Secretary to the EnvironmeRespectfully submitted,
Linda Chirip
Secretary to the Environmental Commission

This meeting was called to order at 7:35 P.M. with the statement that this meeting is in compliance with the Open
Public Meeting Act, Public Law 1975, CH 231, Sections 4 and 13 as advertised by annual notice.  Those present participated in the salute to the flag.  Chairperson for this meeting: Howard Kern

Swearing in of New Member: J. Ryba
Members Present: Gibson, Lawson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Vetter, Ryba, Butz, Kern
Members Absent:  None

All members introduced themselves to welcome Mr. Ryba.

MINUTES:   Mr. Butz motioned to approve the minutes of  January 4, 2010, seconded by Mr. Ranieri.  Reading was waived.  Roll Call Vote In Favor: Gibson, Lawson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Vetter, Butz, Kern  Opposed: None Abstained: Ryba  So Moved.

CORRESPONDENCE:  As shown on the attached agenda.

REPORTS
Planning Board – Mr. Palombi reported that the reorganization meeting was held and Giordano lawsuit was reviewed.

Sussex County Water Quality Board – (Mr. Butz) No Report. Next meeting will be held on the 2nd Thursday in February.

Paulinskill Pequest Watershed Association – Mr. Butz reported that the study done by Mr. Sajdak on the Headwaters of the Paulinskill should be presented at the March meeting which is held on the 3rd Wednesday at 7:30 in Blairstown.

Open Space – Mr. Lawson reported that the committee will meet quarterly from now on.  The Crisman farm has been put into farmland preservation (approx. 200 acres).  The WHIP program for Coursens Meadows is on track.

Ridge & Valley Charter School – Mrs. Vetter reported that the students have led assemblies for the school and community.  All of the teachers attended a conference regarding the environment which was of great interest.  The food chain is changing due to the fact that the bugs are disappearing which is also affecting the bats etc. Very alarming.  Another program of interest was “no child left inside”.  Information regarding healthy eating and buying local was also discussed.

Green Team – Peter Southway has agreed to participate in Fredon Day for our buying local program.  His farm has cows, eggs and cheese.  We are looking for more people to attend to promote our buy local.  Sculptures are being worked on by the environmental club at Fredon School for display at Fredon Day.  The next Green Team meeting will be held February 11th at 7:30.

OLD BUSINESS
PSE&G – BPU hearings will be held on February 4th in Newark.  Governor Christie’s transition committee is in favor of the new power lines.

ANJEC Smart Growth Grant – Discussion was held regarding the updating of our Natural Resource Guide (new term: Environmental Resource Guide).  Mr. Lawson obtained samples on CD from ANJEC for the members to review.  Ms. Chirip will contact the Wander’s to ask if they would like to present a proposal for the revisions/updates.  They were the original company that created the guide we currently use.  Mr. Ranieri suggested having the proposals broken down by category so that we could determine which would be most beneficial.  In the event that we have to update it in stages this would enable us to budget accordingly.  The township may be able to fund the matching grant to make this possible.  Mr. Ranieri work on the application process.  A motion was made by Mr. Butz to have the township committee determine the exact amount that would be available in order to apply for the matching grant.  Seconded by Mr. Lawson.  All in Favor: Aye  Opposed: None  So Moved.

Presentation for 2010 – Many ideas were discussed as to what type of program, if any, we could put together to present to the community for this year.  We will continue to research the various ideas.

Fredon Day – Mrs. Gibson is working on inviting various groups to attend.

NEW BUSINESS
Clean Up Day – Clean up day this year will be held on March 27th from 8:30-12.  We will follow same procedures as last year.  Information will be given to Mrs. Prommel to announce in the township newsletter.

PUBLIC INPUT - None
 

With no further business to come before the Commission, Mr. Butz motioned to adjourn the meeting at 9:00 P.M.
Dr. Kern seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.

Secretary to the EnvironmeRespectfully submitted,
Linda Chirip
Secretary to the Environmental Commission

This meeting was called to order at 7:32 P.M. with the statement that this meeting is in compliance with the Open
Public Meeting Act, Public Law 1975, CH 231, Sections 4 and 13 as advertised by annual notice.  Those present participated in the salute to the flag.  Chairperson for this meeting: Howard Kern

Members Present: Gibson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Ryba, Butz, Kern

Members Absent:  Lawson, Vetter

MINUTES:   Mrs. Gibson motioned to approve the minutes of February 1, 2010, seconded by Mr. Butz.  Reading was waived.  Roll Call Vote In Favor: Gibson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Ryba, Butz, Kern  Opposed: None   So Moved.

CORRESPONDENCE:  As shown on the attached agenda.

Meeting Agenda Amended – (National Park Service) Visitors from Hardwick were present to inform the commission about the creation of “Save the Park”.  This is a group that has been formed to help stop PSE&G from running the power lines thru the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.  The park is now accepting letters of comment.  A motion was made by Mr. Butz and seconded by Mr. Ranieri to submit a letter to the park service stating the commission’s opposition to the proposed power lines.  Mr. Butz, Mrs. Gibson and Ms. Chirip will draft the letter and have it submitted before the deadline of March 5, 2010.  The next meeting for Save the Park will be held on March 12, 2010 at the Kathryn Dickson Library in Blairstown at 6PM.

REPORTS
Planning Board – Mr. Palombi reported that the township lost the Giordano lawsuit.

Sussex County Water Quality Board – (Mr. Butz) No Report.

Paulinskill Pequest Watershed Association – Mr. Butz reported that the study done by Mr. Sajdak on the Headwaters of the Paulinskill should be presented at the March meeting which is held on the 3rd Wednesday at 7:30 in Blairstown.

Open Space – (Mr. Lawson) No Report.

Ridge & Valley Charter School – (Mrs. Vetter) No Report.

Green Team – Mrs. Gibson attended the Fredon Day Meeting.  A form will need to be submitted for the number of tables and chairs that we will need for the day.

OLD BUSINESS
PSE&G – BPU hearings will be held on February 4th in Newark.  Governor Christie’s transition committee is in favor of the new power lines.

ANJEC Smart Growth Grant – Mr. Ranieri has been working on the Smart Growth Grant application.  The paperwork must be submitted by March 31, 2010.  The Open Space Section of the Natural Resource Inventory is missing some sections that we can update such as noise, historical and cultural.  The application requires a resolution from the township committee in support of our program and the amount of money that can be matched.

Presentation for 2010 – Mr. Ryba suggested putting together a Green Energy presentation.

Fredon Day – Mrs. Gibson is working on inviting various groups to attend.

Clean Up Day – Clean up day this year will be held on March 27th from 8:30-12.

NEW BUSINESS
National Park Service – See Above.

PUBLIC INPUT – See Above.

With no further business to come before the Commission, Mr. Ranieri motioned to adjourn the meeting at 9:30 P.M.
Mr. Sappio seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Chirip
Secretary to the Environmental Commission

This meeting was called to order at 7:40 P.M. with the statement that this meeting is in compliance with the Open
Public Meeting Act, Public Law 1975, CH 231, Sections 4 and 13 as advertised by annual notice.  Those present participated in the salute to the flag.  Chairperson for this meeting: Howard Kern

Members Present: Gibson, Lawson, Sappio, Vetter, Kern

Members Absent:  Palombi, Ranieri, Ryba, Butz

MINUTES:   Mrs. Gibson motioned to approve the minutes of  March 1, 2010, seconded by Mr. Sappio.  Reading was waived.  Roll Call Vote In Favor: Gibson, Sappio, Kern  Opposed: None   Abstained: Lawson, Vetter  So Moved.

CORRESPONDENCE:  As shown on the attached agenda.  Item #5 PSE&G letter reviewed. Reviewed box of PSE&G maps, etc..  Letter will be sent to NJDEP with comments.

REPORTS
Planning Board – No Report.

Sussex County Water Quality Board –No Report.

Paulinskill Pequest Watershed Association – No Report.

Open Space – No Report.

Ridge & Valley Charter School –  No Report.

Green Team – Mrs. Gibson will be meeting with Fredon School Environmental Club tomorrow.  Mrs. Gibson made thank you gifts for the students, wooden cut outs of frogs and butterflies to paint.  The students are working on a recycling game that they will bring to Fredon Day along with their recycled art projects.

OLD BUSINESS
PSE&G – As mentioned above letter will be sent to NJDEP with comments.  On May 1st, Save the Park is sponsoring a walk starting at Millbrook Village to bring awareness to the plan for power lines proposed to go thru the Delaware Water Gap and Appalacian Trail. The Delaware Water Gap received 2600 responses regarding the proposed lines.

ANJEC Smart Growth Grant – No submission for grant made. Will put together proposal so that when next grant opportunity is available we will have project ready to submit.

Presentation for 2010 – Tabled for next meeting.

Fredon Day – Continuing to work on displays and groups that will participate.

Clean Up Day – Clean up day was a success.  Commingled Recyclables .27 ton, Bulky Waste 1.19 ton for a total 1.46 tons.  Approximately 80 people participated.  The amount collected this year beat last years record of .87 tons.  Most likely due to the old claw foot tub that was pulled out of a ditch on Van Horn Rd.

NEW BUSINESS
Community Partners – Mrs. Gibson has been in contact with this group.  Project Porchlight will be attending Fredon Day and distributing energy efficient lightbulbs.  There is training available and Mrs. Gibson will invite Community Partners to attend one of our meetings this summer.

Zoning Change Legislation – Mr. Sappio brought to our attention a proposal that the NJ Senate is working on known as “time of application bill”.  This bill would render a property immune from local zoning changes and new ordinances restricting development once it becomes the subject of a formal development application.  A letter will be sent stating our opposition to this bill.

PUBLIC INPUT – See Above.

With no further business to come before the Commission, Dr. Kern motioned to adjourn the meeting at 9:17 P.M.
Mr. Lawson seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Chirip
Secretary to the Environmental Commission

This meeting was called to order at 7:31 P.M. with the statement that this meeting is in compliance with the Open
Public Meeting Act, Public Law 1975, CH 231, Sections 4 and 13 as advertised by annual notice.  Those present participated in the salute to the flag.  This meeting was held downstairs due to the fact that a school budget meeting was being held upstairs.  Chairperson for this meeting: Howard Kern

Members Present: Gibson, Lawson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Vetter, Ryba, Butz, Kern
Members Absent:  None

MINUTES:   Mrs. Gibson motioned to approve the minutes of April 12, 2010, seconded by Mr. Ranieri.  Reading was waived.  Roll Call Vote In Favor: Gibson, Lawson, Sappio, Kern  Opposed: None   Abstained: Palombi, Ranieri, Ryba, Butz   So Moved.

Agenda was amended to allow visitors to present proposal.  Mr. & Mrs. David Slaperud discussed with the board a proposal that they were submitting to PSE&G regarding an alternate route thru the township for the power lines.  Much discussion was held.  Mr. Butz made a motion to send a letter to BPU with a copy to PSE&G stating that the EC supports any proposal that would limit or reduce the number of towers and to preserve the view shed.  However, we would not send a letter specific to this particular proposal.  All In Favor: Gibson, Lawson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Vetter, Ryba, Kern  Opposed: None  Abstained: Butz  So Moved.

CORRESPONDENCE:  As shown on the attached agenda.

REPORTS
Planning Board – No Report.
Sussex County Water Quality Board – No new business with regard to Fredon or surrounding area.
Paulinskill Pequest Watershed Association – No Report.
Open Space – No Report.
Ridge & Valley Charter School –  Mrs. Vetter contacted Plaid Piper about attending Fredon Day as part of the buy local program.  On May 19th the students released trout into the river in Blairstown at Footbridge Park.  Various programs are taking place at the school some of which the students are actually staying overnight for.  Ridge & Valley promotes positive things for the environment.  Situations such as the oil spill and any type of negative occurrences are not discussed with the students.
Green Team – Mrs. Gibson went to meet with students at their Environmental Club Meeting.  The students are very excited about participating in Fredon Day and have had a great time working on a puzzle and assorted art projects made out of recycled items.  Perhaps we should invite students to one of our meetings in the future.  Project Porch Light will be at Fredon Day with 400 bulbs to distribute.  Community Partners will in turn send a check to the EC for participating in this program.  Mrs. Gibson suggested that we need a portfolio manager, someone that works for the town, to oversee the Sustainable Jersey Program.  There are many facets to this program.  (Need to check and see if energy audit is going to be done this year.)

OLD BUSINESS
PSE&G – As mentioned above letter will be sent to BPU & PSE&G with comments.

Presentation for 2010 – Mr. Ryba will work on putting together a presentation on the 4 types of Green Energy to be presented to the public in the future.

Fredon Day – Green Team members, Fredon School’s Environmental Club, Springhouse Dairy and Project Porch Light will all be attending.   Flyers for Energy Star need to be printed and names tags for members.  ANJEC game and various information will be available at the EC table.

Community Partners – Mrs. Gibson has been in contact with this group.  There is training available and Mrs. Gibson has invited Community Partners to attend one of our meetings this summer.  The Township Committee and Recreation Commission will be invited to attend.  There is funding available for various projects that the town can, and in some cases already does, participate in such as the organic park maintenance.

NEW BUSINESS

PUBLIC INPUT – See Above.

With no further business to come before the Commission, Mr. Ranieri motioned to adjourn the meeting at 9:01 P.M.
Mr. Lawson seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.
 

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Chirip
Secretary to the Environmental Commission

This meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M. with the statement that this meeting is in compliance with the Open
Public Meeting Act, Public Law 1975, CH 231, Sections 4 and 13 as advertised by annual notice.  Those present participated in the salute to the flag.  This meeting was held downstairs due to the fact that a school budget meeting was being held upstairs.  Chairperson for this meeting: Howard Kern

Members Present: Gibson, Lawson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Vetter (7:34), Ryba, Butz, Kern
Members Absent:  None

MINUTES:   Mrs. Gibson motioned to approve the minutes of  May 3, 2010, seconded by Mr. Ranieri.  Reading was waived.  Roll Call Vote In Favor: Gibson, Lawson, Sappio, Kern  Opposed: None   Abstained: Palombi, Ranieri, Ryba, Butz   So Moved.

Agenda was amended to allow visitor, Kim Latham, to speak regarding Transition Newton.  Ms.  Latham was referred to us by Tom Hill.  Transition Newton is a grassroots catalyst to bring together the existing intelligence and creativity of the community to develop a plan to become resilient and localized in food, economy, energy, healthcare, arts, education and transportation.  The belief is that working locally to transition to a low energy future in a thoughtful & planned way will lead to a more fulfilling, socially connected, sustainable, resilient and self-reliant community.  Throughout the year various programs and presentations will be given at the Unitarian Universal Church located at 1 West Nelson Street in Newton.  On June 17th at 7PM a film and discussion will be held regarding the Power of Community, How Cuba Survived Peak Oil.  On July 15th at 7PM the film, “A Farm for the Future”, will be presented.   All are welcome to attend.

CORRESPONDENCE:  As shown on the attached agenda.

REPORTS
Planning Board – Giordano subdivision is still pending.  Martin project still has a way to go.  Mr. Sella came before the board for a conceptual hearing regarding preservation of farmland.
Sussex County Water Quality Board – No new business with regard to Fredon or surrounding area. Next meeting will be held on Thursday.  Mr. Butz will check to see if 300ft buffers have been changed.
Paulinskill Pequest Watershed Association – No Report.
Open Space – No Report.
Ridge & Valley Charter School –  Mrs. Vetter reported that the school had a celebration of learning where the students presented what they have learned.  Tomorrow is Earth Olympics.
Green Team – Mrs. Gibson reported that we have earned points to enter into Sustainable Jersey.  This needs to be done by September 15th.
At Fredon Day we received approximately 50 pledges. The students did a great job with their puzzle, games, prizes and art work displayed.  Mr. Southway’s family was present with their calf and cheese.  The EC had flyers and a conservation game.  Project Porchlight was present to distribute light bulbs.  Ms. Gibson took pictures and sent photos to school in the form of a collage to thank the students.

OLD BUSINESS
PSE&G –Letter was approved to BPU & PSE&G with comments.  Ms. Gibson reported that towns are rushing to settle with PSE&G.  An appeal has been filed by a group of environmentalists including the Sierra Club against the BPU Roseland Power Line Decision.

Walmart Grant - Mr. Ryba and Mayor McCracken will work on a submission for the Walmart Grant regarding the solar project.

Fredon Day – See Above Under Green Team.

Community Partners – Mrs. Gibson has been in contact with this group.  There is training available and Mrs. Gibson has invited Community Partners to attend our October meeting.  The Township Committee and Recreation Commission will be invited to attend.  There is funding available for various projects that the town can, and in some cases already does, participate in such as the organic park maintenance.

Solar Lighting Installation – Mr. Butz, Mr. Sappio and Ms. Chirip will install the lighting on the Lodestar Barn on Saturday, June 12th at 9:00 AM.

NEW BUSINESS
Transition Newton – See Above: Agenda Amended.

PUBLIC INPUT – See Above: Agenda Amended.

With no further business to come before the Commission, Mr. Lawson motioned to adjourn the meeting at 8:50 P.M.
Mr. Ranieri seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Chirip
Secretary to the Environmental Commission

This meeting was called to order at 7:45 P.M. with the statement that this meeting is in compliance with the Open
Public Meeting Act, Public Law 1975, CH 231, Sections 4 and 13 as advertised by annual notice.  Those present participated in the salute to the flag.  Chairperson for this meeting: Howard Kern

Members Present: Gibson, Vetter, Ryba, Butz, Kern
Members Absent:  Lawson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio

MINUTES:   Mr. Butz motioned to approve the minutes of  June 7, 2010, seconded by Mrs. Gibson.  Reading was waived.  Roll Call Vote In Favor: Gibson, Vetter, Ryba, Butz, Kern  Opposed: None   Abstained: None   So Moved.

CORRESPONDENCE:  As shown on the attached agenda.  Item #11- Letter from Soil Conservation regarding PSE&G was discussed.  Suggestion made to post Soil Conservation (a Federal Agency) phone numbers in the newsletter and on the website in the event that residents need to report any violations.  Item #10 – Notice from PSE&G regarding wetlands permit application was discussed.

REPORTS
Planning Board – Currently working on applications from Fredon School, Mr. Klemm and Mr. Poccia.
Sussex County Water Quality Board – Meeting was held in June.  Rutgers presented information on rain gardens, rain barrels and retention basins. A copy will be given to the Planning Board.
Paulinskill Pequest Watershed Association – No Report.
Open Space – No Report.
Ridge & Valley Charter School –  School is closed.  Wednesday at Genesis Farm there will be a presentation with an excellent speaker from Colorado.
Green Team – No Report.

OLD BUSINESS
PSE&G – A meeting is scheduled for July 20, 2010 at the municipal building at 5:30 PM regarding the wetlands transition area thru Coursen’s Meadow.  EC will print a handout with Soil Conservation and DEP phone numbers and what residents should look for as far as any violations.   EC contact information will also be included and flyer will be distributed at the meeting.  A letter will also be composed to submit regarding the specific endangered species on the property.

Walmart Grant - Mr. Ryba submitted the Walmart Grant regarding the solar project.

Solar Lighting – Check with the Township Committee and see if they liked the lights on the barn.  Perhaps the municipal building or other areas in town could benefit from similar lighting.

NEW BUSINESS
Sustainable Event in Sparta – August 4, 2010 at Lake Mohawk Country Club.  Dr. Kern and Mr. Ryba will attend.

August EC Meeting – Mr. Butz motioned to cancel the August meeting in the event that there is a lack of agenda.  Seconded by Mr. Ryba.  All In Favor.  Opposed – None.  So Moved.

PUBLIC INPUT – None.

With no further business to come before the Commission, Mr. Butz motioned to adjourn the meeting at 8:50 P.M.
Mr. Ryba seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Chirip
Secretary to the Environmental Commission

This meeting was called to order at 7:32 P.M. with the statement that this meeting is in compliance with the Open
Public Meeting Act, Public Law 1975, CH 231, Sections 4 and 13 as advertised by annual notice.  Those present participated in the salute to the flag.  Chairperson for this meeting: Howard Kern

Members Present: Lawson, Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Ryba, Kern
Members Absent:  Gibson, Vetter, Butz

MINUTES:   Approval of minutes from July 12, 2010 are tabled until next month due to lack of quorum.

CORRESPONDENCE:  As shown on the attached agenda.  Mr. Lawson mentioned that he had received a letter regarding the Melton property located on Warner Road and Fredon Marksboro Road with regard to lifting conservation easements.

REPORTS
Planning Board – The Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Center has submitted an application to construct a facility on Fairview Hill Road.
Sussex County Water Quality Board – No Report.
Paulinskill Pequest Watershed Association – No Report.
Open Space – Investigating the purchase of additional acreage to add to trail system along Paulinskill Lake Road.
Ridge & Valley Charter School –  No Report.
Green Team – No Report.

OLD BUSINESS
Sustainable Event in Sparta – Mr. Ryba attended the event on August 4th at the Lake Mohawk Country Club.  Information was presented regarding two solar projects that Sparta Township has implemented.

Green Team Resolution – Information will be gathered and forwarded to Township Committee.

National Park System/PSE&G Project – Mr. Sappio and Mrs. Gibson attended the hearing that was held at Farmstead.  The consensus seems to be that crossing the Appalachian Trail is not an acceptable option.

NEW BUSINESS
Fall Newsletter 2010 – Advertise contact information for DEP and Soil Conservation.  Print “invite” for the November meeting.  Mr. Ryba will present information regarding Green Energy – Wind, Solar and Geothermal.  All are welcome to attend.

PUBLIC INPUT – None.

With no further business to come before the Commission, Mr. Ranieri motioned to adjourn the meeting at 8:05 P.M.
Mr. Lawson seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Chirip
Secretary to the Environmental Commission

This meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M. with the statement that this meeting is in compliance with the Open
Public Meeting Act, Public Law 1975, CH 231, Sections 4 and 13 as advertised by annual notice.  Those present participated in the salute to the flag.  Chairperson for this meeting: Howard Kern

Members Present: Ranieri, Sappio, Ryba, Butz, Kern, Palombi
Members Absent:  Lawson, Vetter

MINUTES:   Mr. Butz motioned to approve the minutes of October 4, 2010, seconded by Mr. Palombi.  Reading was waived.  Roll Call Vote In Favor: Palombi, Ranieri, Sappio, Ryba, Butz, Kern  Opposed: None   Abstained: None

CORRESPONDENCE:  As shown on the attached agenda.

REPORTS
Planning Board – Mr. Palombi reported that the board approved the Giordano application for subdivision of property located on the corner of Route 94 and Van Horn Road. Approval was granted for 2 lots (applicant originally requested 3 lots).

Sussex County Water Quality Board – Mr. Butz reported that the next meeting will be held this Thursday.

Paulinskill Pequest Watershed Association – No Report.

Open Space – No Report.

Ridge & Valley Charter School –  No Report.

Green Team – No Report.

OLD BUSINESS
Ordinance Regarding Towers – Will review current ordinance.

NEW BUSINESS
Chairperson Recommendation – Mr. Butz motioned to nominate Mr. Ranieri to serve as chairperson for 2011. Mr. Palombi seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.  Request will be forwarded to Township Committee.

PUBLIC INPUT – None.

With no further business to come before the Commission, Mr. Palombi motioned to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 P.M.
Mr. Butz seconded.  All in Favor.  So Moved.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Chirip
Secretary to the Environmental Commission