This meeting of the Franklin Township Environmental Commission was called to provision of the open public law meeting of June 15, 2026 was included in a list of meetings. Notice sent to sent advertised in local municipal posted on
the Bolton board in the municipal building posted on the municipal website. It remain continually posted as required notice under the statute. In addition, a copy of this notice is has been available to the public. It's on file in the office of the municipal
clerk. Okay. So then we'll do roll call. Uh Ted Chase is not here. Uh, Ellen, >> yes. >> Kiki, >> yes. >> Maria is not here. >> Easy.
>> Dan, >> yes. >> Myself, Walton, >> yes, there. >> We're doing the roll call. I just have a short um little little thing I wrote. What I wanted to do was bring it up to
date from still things happening from that uh presentation we had by um Sterling Clyurn about indoor solar and what doing some research I found out a lot of states are already looking at
this thing and and as a followup on the presentation we heard Senator Smith our senator for this area proposed at the end of last fall a bill to request the Bureau of Consumer Affairs has to develop guidelines for balcony solar. It
was sent to the committee but not further acted on. NJS4786 try to I'm trying to determine the bill's status. I think it dies at the end of the year. So several states have passed regulations. New York State Assembly has passed a bill which is
waiting the governor's signature. an article on the web, Maine's balcony solar push could help renters cut electricity cost. That's the title. Uh author is pay cerule ce ru l i. It's fairly complete
fairly complete survey of the whole issue. Lawmakers in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Rhode Island are all advancing proposals to allow residents to use plug-in solar systems that connect to home outlets,
which we don't think is a good thing. And I and I wrote this is not recommended here. Our fire prevention department asked that the use of solar indoor solar use a separate charger/inverter to get home power generated off the
grid. I mean the whole point besides is backup power from when there's no power and also to reduce electricity cost. If you plug into the wall I don't you don't get credit for it unless you have a dual meter like I have for the solar sounds.
So >> so the backup power is a different thing. I know that it's tempting to put it together but uh the way how the balcony or portable solo works is that it needs the grit to >> Exactly. Yeah. Um energy storage is
completely different project. >> Yeah, >> seems like but it's not. >> But you can do energy storage with solar on the balcony. You just need the inverter and it's talked about it here in in the article. >> Yeah. It's just that for the energy storage, you don't need a solar system.
We can charge during different times. >> And canal walk about a week or so ago, there was a 9-hour power failure in one section >> and one of the families couldn't get into the garage because they couldn't open the garage and they didn't have the
keys. The the garage thing wouldn't work. >> So, have a backup system >> and they needed they had a medical thing that needed to be charged and they got to somebody's house. So they need to understand that each uh system is a full port that you can >> but they were outside the house.
>> Yeah. That's >> you can't get to the pool. >> That's right. Yeah. If you are from outside then you >> Yeah. So So it's it's not un you know it can happen. All of our wires are underwater underground but the power is coming in to feed this new area right on
the front of schoolhouse road must be on a separate circuit. But they were out for nine hours. >> So that's my uh comments. >> Yes. >> I mean I I've met with Senator Smith several times. He's he's really smart. He's an attorney and he's also a
physicist. >> Yes. >> So I did poke fun at him. I go scientific thinking thinking and attorney thinking are totally different. How do you do that in your head? Anyway, as a physicist, I'm just wondering though. I mean, I like solar, but again,
I keep thinking about that graduate course I took at Rut Ruters. You know, cradle to grave. What happens to these, you know, the solar panels when they're done? They're a hazardous waste. Do we want to keep contributing unless
somebody has a solution? You know, it's like, why are we creating more hazardous waste? they go to a specially constructed hazardous waste landfill but which has water monitoring around it and whatever. It's not a regular landfill. So, it just concerns
me. I wish we were more. We're not like mother nature. Mother nature takes everything and it's cyclical and it works out just fine. >> The life cycle assessment on solar panels have been already assessed. I don't have the reference but essentially
what you want to compare in life cycle analysis is the credle to crave of conventional power plant versus the solar and then the fuel that you need for the >> No, I get that. But I'm a biologist. I'm an environmentalist
when it dies it goes to a hazardous wasteland. >> I'm trying to answer your question. >> Yes. processes through life cycle analysis all parameters and while you are concerned about the solar panel waste there is also the cool or any fuel
that you have which is lacking in case of solar cells. >> So and most of the material in solar panels is aluminum because the way how they construct them today is they have very thin layer of the silicone because
that's what's needed. the aluminum can be taken apart and recycled. Yeah. And >> I'm just concerned it's go I mean as I said I took that graduate course and it blew my mind. >> Well, you know things have progressed. The solar panels have gotten much more
efficient. Prices have come down. The materials have changed in the last few years. And >> I hope it continues. >> It keeps going. You know um they've made them now. Many solar panels are transparent. right now, right? >> Yeah. Yeah. Okay.
>> That can be recycled. Silicon can be recycled. >> No, no, that Yeah, that I understand. >> Okay. So, um approval of the minutes from um the June 1st meeting. >> So, move. >> Any uh changes or modifications? Arnold
has something. >> Yeah, I have one. It's at the bottom of the first page, second to last paragraph. Uh third, fourth line down. The amount instituted several years ago has not
been raised annually as was suggested in the ordinance. Ordinance says the rate shall be adjust shall be adjusted annually and based on estimates by the township engineer. So it shouldn't be suggested. It should be
required. It's required in the ordinance. So just change the word suggested to required. That has more force for sure. >> That is at the uh LCV yellow this evening. >> Okay.
>> I was taking the notes and >> I made a change. >> Okay. Anything else on that was it? >> Yeah, I did. >> Okay. All in favor of the correction to the minutes? I >> I >> done
public. >> Motion to open the floor of public comment. >> So move second. >> Favor. >> Any comments from anybody on the floor? >> Second. >> Favor. >> Oh, there's one side plan. Oh,
correspondence. I checked this afternoon. There's nothing in our mailbox. >> No emails either. I checked. Okay. Now, easy has a site plan. >> All right. >> It's a very straightforward site plan. I can pull it up. >> Yeah. >> They're asking for a D1 variance.
>> Um, Raceway Realy uh LLC I think of 27. I forget the address. >> Show you the real quick. Easy. I'll just put up the map just so they can see where it is. >> So 27 is here. >> Can you see my Oh, you can. 27 is here.
This is Bennington Parkway. This is Orchard Street. >> All they're asking is this gravel place over here. They want to uh use that place to uh rent have a rental truck rental.
>> This is a gas station and gas provision something like that. This is they're going to redo some of the office space. All this gravel space and portion of that. Look at the site plan. They want to have a car truck rental business on the side to increase their profit margins. They're going under losses
because gas is expensive. People are driving more electric cars. That's the rational behind that. >> So, it's gravel not. >> So, in other words, leaking vehicles back there, these rentals, if they're leaking any fluid of any kind, it could
get into the ground, which would be a concern. I'm not saying no. I'm just saying it could be a concern. Okay. Okay. Oh, yeah. Here it is. The proposed parking area for 20 rental trucks.
>> Okay. Open the word document. I just shown the active site there. >> Sure. >> Okay. >> What's the concern regarding electric vehicles? >> You just give a comment. The comment is people are driving more hybrids and
electric. So, they're coming to the gas stations is less now. So for them to make money >> they're proposing to have truck rental so that it complements their business >> and it gives an opportunity to come there trucks. There's no truck rental on 27.
>> They're not talking about electric. They can come up with electric truck rental. >> They can they should actually we can actually propose that have an option to have electric. Yeah. >> Well actually that's a very good idea. >> Yeah we can actually put that. If you're going to do it, then they should be
required to put in charging stations in in case >> some of the vehicles are electric. >> Yeah. >> If they choose to, so you recommend them to have at least one. >> Well, we should make that recommendation. Yeah.
>> Georgia. >> What about program? >> What's the What is the requirement per spaces in an apartment? like for every 20 spaces is one electric required. I don't know what it is. >> So the commercial is 4%.
>> Commercial is 4%. Residential is >> Hold on. Let me here. I think >> subject of it. >> They might not be subject to it. >> I was not aware of looking for a variance, right? Multif family projects with five units or more, it's 15% of all
proposed parking and at least 5% of that has to be ADA compliant. Okay. For all projects except multif family, this is the breakdown of it. >> Make a recommendation that uh is it the planning board or the zone zoning boarding?
uh just put in a recommendation that we recommend that they install two electric uh charging stations. >> Yeah, cuz in Austin if they've only got 20 parking spaces, they're below the the
>> you should have one, but uh if you start doing charging stations, it's better to >> have two. But level two is level two would be enough for rental because those vehicles are standing for extended period of time
and level two is quite enough. And uh >> and they're expecting just like 10 rental trucks to be there on property something more 10 to be rented out >> and uh also yeah okay
location. So uh Mercy Transportation where I am working with them almost across the street 27 there will be charging stations installed but they will not be for public >> um because it will be only
down the road is already IA which has 10 public um that will be probably just but So >> you concerned about people going electric, they should get electric charging station.
>> That's a good recommendation actually. >> But but but no uh >> we can't synthesize >> because of the competitive nature. Uh it doesn't make sense for them to install fast charging stations because >> Okay, we'll just stick with the
two for their own use. doesn't have to be shared with public >> like an enterprise or a rider truck or one of those or it's a franchise I would think >> they don't see that >> it's just they're going to do it themselves. >> Yes.
>> And then you recommended buffering around the area which makes sense I think right? >> Yes >> makes sense. We're just going to see. Oh, yeah. Because yeah, there's no truck rental in the allowable uses. Okay,
>> fair enough. The justification. >> Fair enough. All righty. Any other comments or questions from anybody? >> Well, you mentioned about the gravel. What what other choice if you put in
pvious stuff that might get ripped up by the trucks anyway? >> That those types of trucks, I don't know if they would be too heavy for the pavement. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> I'm just bringing it up for the zoning board to have it in their mind that that
could be an issue >> and let them take it from there. Make the comment, but I'd leave it in the comment. Yeah. They have enough parking if all trucks are there, right? >> Yeah. >> Okay.
>> They have enough they have enough of space. They're using a small portion of the gravel area anyways. >> Okay. >> Instead of a gas station, they'll do be doing their own maintenance, I would think. >> Yeah. Everything is on their own. They're managing the whole thing by themselves.
>> That's why they're creating a little office space, too. That's the >> office space. I saw that. Yeah. Okay. >> Okay. >> That's all for site plans. >> That's it for site plans. >> Yep.
>> Okay. Um, run to new business. Firefly walk Saturday, July 11th. I don't want to think about >> Yes. So, the uh trails advisory committee does their Firefly walk every year. It's going to be this year on July
11th, Saturday, July 11th. It starts at 8:00 p.m. That's when the walk will take place led by the trails committee. Uh at 9:30 the astronomy club will prior to 9:30 they'll have it set up, but they're estimating that around 9:30 they'll
begin doing their observation. Uh so they're going to have their telescope set up and they're going to have observations of the night sky. Um also the person that is the co-president of the astronomy club is a Dark Skies International ambassador. So, he also
will be bringing with him some materials about Dark Skies International. Um, I have I believe most of the light bulbs that we were talking about came in so we can assemble them before then. I have to get them from DPW cuz they're at the DPW building still. Um, so we do have
giveaways. We do have materials. We do have activities. The only thing I would need to know is is there anyone here that's willing to go to the Firefly? You I think you said you were going to go. >> I offered to go. Yes. But I do have some questions like >> Sure. >> Uh do we have a a table or do they
provide tables there? >> The trails committee has a table. They're bringing that. They bring a sign that they put out in front of John Clyde Memorial Native Grasslands Preserve. So we can share the table with them. The astronomy club also has. So basically we all kind of three partner on it. Y
>> and then I can pick up the supplies from >> I'll even have them there. I'll send them with the trails committee or whoever. Yeah. >> Oh wow. Okay. with the light bulbs. >> The light bulbs I might have to figure out a way to get to you or but we can figure that out. >> I think I have some
>> the the original ones. >> The night lights up. Yes, those you can bring. So, if you want to get those to Kiki some of them. >> I'll see I'll talk to Gail. See if we're going to because we did this last year. >> Okay. >> Depends on how you know >> we're a year older.
>> Yeah. >> Yeah. So, you decide. Let me know. or I can either pick them up or if you decide to come, >> you guys can bring them. >> The calendar looks open for July 11th. >> Okay, good. >> Right. >> So, >> and what and my last question, I'm
sorry. >> Yeah. >> Uh what time should we be there? >> I think you probably So, it starts at 8. I think the trails committee gets there at 7:30. The astronomy club probably gets there a little earlier because they have more things to set up for us. you
probably if you got there at 7:30 7:45 I think that that would be totally fine. >> Okay. Yep. >> And so it's been advertised um on the social media on our website. People can start registering for it right now. So it it's a nice event. Um I would
recommend definitely like you know bringing bug sprite wearing long pants you know. Um >> so it's in our website. It's on our website or Yeah, it'll be on our social media and then people can register for it through our recreation department. >> Yeah,
>> because I was wondering if we should uh post something in the canal walk Google group because you know >> Well, yeah, we can send them the link. >> Yeah, you guys can do that. I sent the flyer. Um you can definitely share it
out. You can share the link because you know many people have like grandkids. >> Too late. >> Why? >> Because it comes out July 1st. It's this is July 11th. >> Yeah. Yeah. No, I know. I don't mean the newsletter. I mean to send it to the
Google group. >> We can do it that way. We have an internal group that has over 900 people. >> Oh, great. >> That would be awesome. So >> more than 900 900 addresses. So >> yeah, not everybody's on it, but the
majority are. >> Yeah. >> So that's it. So yeah, I think this is the second year or the third year that we're partnering with everybody on it. And yeah, it's a good >> It sounds like fun. >> Last year was nice. >> I love fireflies. You were supposed to
come, too. >> Yeah. I have to look at my planner. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Look at it. And if you want even just show, you don't have to tell me. If you want to show up that night, you're welcome to. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> I love the catchphrase, let nature be your light. >> Thank you. Yeah. >> Yeah.
>> Well, did we skip our own public session portion? >> Well, yes. And nobody did. >> Didn't know. So, we closed it. Why not? >> All right. So, that is that. So, yep.
>> B is the update on the portable solar pot for township council. I just wanted to let everyone know that Councilwoman Odin had asked that I um kind of put together a presentation that elaborated on Sterling's presentation that he did to us about indoor solar balcony solar.
So I did that and I sent it off to her um and she is looking it over and I think working with our fire prevention group >> for them to add in their piece of it. And so I think she's planning on making a presentation relatively soon. She wants to take it to the different
communities within war too. Yeah. >> Yes. Yeah. The Somerset one, the Renaissance. >> So that's good. So you know, so she'll be taking it on the road soon. >> Councilman Singh seemed interested in it because he's w one, but he has not not here this evening. Obviously he's
probably at the galler. >> So that was my only update just to let you know that I did that. >> Okay. Committee reports are next. And Maria is not here. Stan, do you have anything? >> Uh, yes. So, um, I have been copied on
the email communication uh between Maria and the school district schools regarding our plan to show the film um, >> multiple choice. Yeah.
>> Yes. Thank you. Um so we reached out to or she reached out to uh Franklin High School. She received response that the teacher who is in charge of the environmental club uh resigned from that
position. So um we will be contacting uh the leadership of the school to uh help us uh find a partner who will be in charge because uh high school is
it's it's not exactly in the center of the township. Uh I mean even the sens but but frankly high school is uh better target the audience. So, uh, when we partner with them, we'll we'll get, um,
uh, naturally the audience that we want. >> Be in the fall. >> That could be definitely >> That's what I I remember seeing. >> Yeah, we copied. >> We lost the date because um, S. Smith was
>> Was that David? The guy we that was the one that was at the science fair. >> That was Rod. Oh, >> Rod is retiring. >> But but the the person who was I'm reluctant to say chair because I don't
know how the position is named. It's the lead among teachers, >> right? >> Um Corine's appeal name and uh last year it was another teacher Jessica.
Yeah. And so they will have to assign someone or we may not need to have that specific role as a point of contact. It could be just you know >> um vice principal or someone who is
suitable. >> So this is where we are speaking of this project. Um I have a report regarding the cool words. Is this a good time? >> Yes. If you didn't bring it up, I was going to bring it up. So go ahead.
>> Okay. Uh so uh I've been working um with um Michael Orsini from the planning board. uh we assembled a document uh with a list of culverts that are the
jurisdiction of the township. Uh we separated those that are in charge by state or county or some private uh parties and uh from those that are
managed by the township. Um we uh put next to each other pictures from 2019 which were in the report like JDP and the pictures from today um 2026.
Um and we kind of prioritized and we outlined recommended actions. Obviously the number one is the one that we have been talking about from the beginning the one on Lane Road which um despite the fact that we reported it two months
ago but so that report was now sent to Bob and Carl Hawk. So >> you can note that um maybe funding from communities.
>> Well, that one that one was mostly black, >> right? That one had the trees in front of it. >> Uh the culvert. >> Yeah. The >> Yes. Yes. It's combination of uh branches and leaves. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Um some other um culverts they
have um uh biomass that it's not entirely blocking but uh it could potentially be as a place where additional biomass could uh stick on and uh create potential barrier. So but uh
no the only one that is really urgent is the one that was already discussed but uh uh that it was sent like I think today. Yeah, >> that was really a thorough I went through all the slides. >> You were copies. That's right.
>> Yeah. And I I looked at all Yeah. >> Good. Okay. Uh any other hot topics from anybody here? >> Well, I don't know if some of you may remember the greenway that was created from an
old railroad that ran from New York all the way to Jersey City. Well, they are at the point now where they want to name the park and they are allowing the public to do so. Have three names suggested. >> Four names. >> Four. >> They have four candidates.
>> Yeah. >> And u voted. Yeah, >> I did too. >> The choice. >> I bet we voted the same one. But nevertheless, um it's interesting that they're going to be putting in about 200 200,000. Is that right?
uh trees and shrubs in the first mile and I guess this is going to be completed sometime in the future. But uh >> I think one of the names um like prosperity they proposed. >> That's right. That's the first one.
>> Yeah. And then the other one was was it iron or >> iron line? >> Iron line. >> Iron line. >> Yeah. Yeah. Used to be a railroad. >> Then Rich and River State Park is number
two. Rich and River. >> Yeah. Ridge and River. Exactly. Because of the topography. >> Iron Line is number three. And number four is steal something because it has the same kind of idea as the iron line. >> Like S E L.
>> So which one should you vote for? >> Well, you have a chance to go in and vote. just go to the site be interesting to take a part take part in it you know. >> Yeah. >> So this is from Jersey City or Ming County who's >> you go to New Jersey D site
Ed Pausnik is going to has a prospective >> you on the mailing list from the >> so you should have that invitation in >> Oh yeah. >> I don't know if I'm on I'm see I'm on the deer one um >> the news release >> greenway
>> greenway. Yeah. >> Uh, Jersey City, New York. See, New Jerseyy's newest state park. Spanning 9 miles from Montlair to Jersey City, this former rail line is being
transformed into a vibrant. Yeah. Did I lower your vote? Farmers markets and block. I just want to read what is there. Has host an engagement. Oh, >> is open till July 29th. >> Prosperity State Park.
>> Yeah. >> River State Park. Iron Line State Park. >> Steel Trail. >> Steel Trail State Park. >> Oh, >> and each of them has kind of explainer why they picked it. >> Yeah.
>> Oh, interesting. So the voting is kind of anonymous because they are not collecting your name but you cannot vote twice because it remembers that you voted from your a IP address and browser. >> Exactly.
>> I like it. >> Very nice. But not this one. >> Awesome. Thank you, Walter. >> That's that's exciting. >> That was good. >> Very good. Thank you.
>> Thank you, Walter. All business. Uh the committ get to that. Um it's not really a hot topic other than it was discussed the last meeting that our council leaison I think he showed up at once at the very first meeting and he hasn't
since and we talked about at the last meeting about sending him a letter or an email. So I wonder if there's any action on that >> on on um >> Catherine Singh. >> Yes. What was the topic on the um >> as to whether he's going to come to our
meetings or he has he's come to one meeting. >> Oh, I don't remember that being the memo that we agreed to. I thought we were sending a memo about the leave about the leaf blower ordinance which I did do that. That I did do. Yes. >> I didn't realize.
>> I mean he's interested under old minutes. It says, "When will council liaison thing show up at up to environmental commission meeting?" Maybe a letter to council is needed. I'm just going by what's in the middle.
>> Yeah. I didn't have any of that in my notes and I don't remember it. I'm sorry. If I >> I didn't remember it either. >> I didn't. Okay. Okay. >> Maybe put it in. Um >> I suggest we send a reminder email first
rather than sending a letter. Yeah. >> Yeah. Oh, yeah. Quick reminder. >> I talked to him at the time council meeting last week and you know was you know he was interested what what we were doing. >> Is he aware that he's supposed to be
attending this meetings regularly? >> I mean Ed didn't get to every meeting either. >> The last time you send it on Fridays he's on that list. >> Oh yes. Yes he's on that list. And he did say earlier on that it was like, you know, he was basically getting adjusted
to all the committee meetings that he has to attend and everything. So that >> and this evening is the uh um major conservation voters gayla and >> make excuses for him because we don't know if he's there or not.
>> If Ed was running it, I would have been there also. >> Making a point. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> We know that Ted is there because >> Ted is there. >> Emory is there. Ted is not here. He has absolute reason. >> Yes. >> Yeah.
>> Um but yeah, so I didn't send anything you know any letter or anything like that. Yeah. >> Just because I have another subject. We are done with this. >> Is this for hot topics or committee reports or >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yeah.
>> It just became hot. >> It did. No, because uh last time I was referring uh that uh this past week that I will attend uh RGER's uh climate change research symposium with Robin,
>> right? >> Uh so I did it was on Tuesday uh June on Wednesday, >> June 10th. >> June. >> Yeah. >> Yes. Um there were lots of interesting talks. It
was not as attended as uh we wish given the importance of climate change but um there was a fee associated with attendance so which which lowered some of uh that attendance but u uh they had
also um hosted session and what I want to highlight is that uh I met this lady uh from DB her name is Barbara uh Wally um and uh she was uh presenting
materials on u uh what I call it >> the it's a regional assistance program uh funding opportunities for um um I
have to use the right terminology um oh climate change related hazard vulnerability analysis So um and this is this is required to complete our master plan >> that is required when we do an update to
the land use element of the master plan. Yes. >> So uh do we need help or financial help or do we need some assistance or >> I don't know that is under the planning board. Um the land use element of the master plan I believe is supposed to be
updated in 2028. And so Mark Healey oversees that. But yes, I have brought that to his attention because that was a change in the municipal land use law in 2024 is I think it was when that came in. So yes, we will have to do that. I am aware of it. I've worked on that for another
uh client that I have. So yes, I'm familiar with it. Yeah. >> Yes. Sustainable Jersey actually put together an excellent excellent not only um a template that goes through step by step, they actually also put together a
model plan that can be followed. So Sustainable Jerseys um >> uh resources are really really good. Really good. So that's helpful. Yeah. >> Yeah. The whole concept of resilient New Jersey is the the catch word right now.
you know, make it into >> Yeah. >> When we update the land use element of the master plan under the municipal land use law, an amendment was made that now requires that when the land use element is updated that it includes this climate
change related hazard vulnerability assessment. And it basically requires you to look at all of your public infrastructure facilities um the types of climate change uh risks you have and your population and your demographics and basically figure out
where are the most hazard related vulnerabilities and then you put together strategies to mitigate them. So, we have a lot of the data from our local health assessment and from our community energy plan and I and Mark is aware of both of those and he knows that
the land use element has to be updated but I think it's not due till 2028 so that's why it hasn't been done yet. Yes. >> Are we looking into they they have a grant program? >> Yes. So, they give out grants for that. Um we can definitely apply for that. I
sent that to Mark as well. Um, and like I said, Sustainable Jersey also has like an awesome awesome resources to do this climate change related hazard vulnerability assessment. So, we'll we can use that. I think we're probably going to have to do it is what I'm
pretty sure that's what the protocol is going to be. >> Um, >> are they sustainable points for that? >> Yes. Yes, there's definitely some points. Yeah, I think it's like 15 to 20 points. >> That's a big number. Okay. So,
>> I just >> that that was fine. >> Yes. >> Uh uh some of the presentations were about um agrialtics which is getting lots of traction. They were reporting on
Rutgers doing research on agrialtic. They call it also dual use um land because you have agriculture and also solar. One of the interesting numbers uh were that um if if you use
them in both ways um your solar performance is 80% versus if you have only solar and your agriculture is also estimated to be 80%. But because you have both at the same time now you are at 160%.
By doing two things on the same land. So you may compromise on each a little bit but together you have 160%. Um and uh some of the solar arrays uh that they were showing are vertical and
that's where it comes very interesting because vertical solar array is hailproof. When you have hail it doesn't hit it. >> That makes sense. >> And u you have different uh production generation pattern. These solar arrays
the panels are actually bfacial. So they are oriented north south. So they collect sun when energy when sun is rising in the morning. They do not collect during the midday when every other solar system is
pumping lots of energy and then towards the evening they have another wave of maximum production. So uh the generation pattern is somewhat complementing the existing solar system which is uh also
very interesting aspect. People have been putting solar cells on closed landfills for a long time now also to to make use of the land. And yet >> they also notice that in the winter when they have snow in between those vertical
panels uh then the scatter light from the snow is actually boosting up generation. you have more light because some of the light you have direct some of them is uh
indirect from the snow. >> Um which is also very important because as we are electrifying everything uh the peak load that we are experiencing in summer due to air conditioning will eventually shift to winter because heat
pumps uh consume lots of electricity. >> Uh and we need more heat in winter than cooling in summer. Um, so >> I just have one more item for hot topics before we head off. So the ANJ environmental conference sent out,
they're beginning to take registrations for their annual environmental congress. >> When is that? >> This year it's going to be Friday, September 25th from 9 to 4. And it's again at the New Brunswick Theological Seminary, which is where it was last year. >> I'm sorry.
>> The um Anjax annual environmental congress. It's Friday, September 25th from 9:00 to 4:00 and it's at the New Brunswick Theological Cere Seminary for almost 10. >> That's who we went to. That's who we went to last year. >> Yes. Cuz we won the award last year. So
if anyone is interested in going, don't forget we do have a budget for sending members to things like this and Jack environmental congress. The perfect one. >> I mean, uh, if you could let me know by like the middle of July, that would be helpful. end of July even is fine. That
would be good. But if you're interested in going, yeah, let me know. We can register people through the environmental commission. >> Mhm. >> And where was this located again? >> In New Brunswick. It's at the theological seminary. >> Oh, I know that. >> So, it's at 35 Seminary place. >> That's close.
>> It's a really nice building. Yeah. >> I've driven by it. Never been inside. >> It's beautiful. Yeah. It was I thought it was good last year for the different meeting rooms and everything. Yeah. So that's it. >> 25th of school.
>> So what's the old business? >> September. >> Last year it was in October. >> No, last year I think Oh, last year I think it was like October 1st or something. Yeah. So it might just be where the calendar fell. Okay. Um, the committee, we really had an update on the ameritus committee last
meeting with Robin here. >> Robin, I reached out to Robin. She kind of wants to take the lead on running that ameritus committee. So, I sent her the information I had of all the previous commissioners that Ted sent me and out of them, four have responded
that they want to participate. So, I sent her the information and she um thought maybe meeting up at like the Firefly Walk or somewhere like that would be helpful. So, I sent her all the information. So, she's going to do that. >> Can you tell us who the full name?
>> Uh Reswan, uh Diane Pedeski, is that how you say your name? Pesky. Diane Pedeski, Reswan, Jessica, um Jessica Johnson, Robin. >> Those five. Yes, >> that's four with
>> good. >> Okay. >> So, I have a question about the um uh ameritus committee. Um I know we were talking about voting on having this ameritus committee. I I guess we did vote on it. I just don't remember it.
>> Yes, I think we voted like a a while ago. It's just been taking a long time to get up and running. Yeah. >> Okay. So, um, and it's been on the agenda, you know, most of the more recent agendas. And I'm wondering when people from the ameritus committee come,
do they get to speak when they're at this point on the agenda or do they get to speak at other times or during public session? I mean, I'm just wondering what the format is going to be >> for that. >> Yeah. So I think last if I can last time
uh uh Ted suggested that they would be considered as invited speaker. >> So it would be outside of public >> and uh they would be just given time to share whatever they have >> on the agenda. Yeah. I don't think that they would be able to like kind of jump
in just during any topic but they'll keep a spot on the agenda and they can talk during there and then if they want to speak during public >> we're going to put a spot on the agenda on the agenda. Yeah, that that would be that would be the and then during public session. >> Yeah, I've kind of been keeping under
old business just so that we could get it like going, you know, but yeah, now if they meet then they should do that for sure. So, >> is it a real thing? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Leave leave the leaves campaign.
>> I didn't get the article yet from Jenny. She said she was going to send me the updated article. So, as soon as she sends me that, I can post it on the website. Um, and also there was like a brochure that she was editing. So, as soon as I have those, I can order the brochures to be
printed and I can also um update our website and put everything on there. So, she just got back. So, I figured let me just give her a little time. >> You think you can have it printed by uh the Firefly event?
um if if she sends it to me soon. So, I could reach out to her and ask her to send it. I just didn't want to bombard her because I know she just got home, but I'll reach out to her in the next few days. >> I were kind of thinking that we wanted to have it ready for >> you signs left over from last year or
>> I think we do have some in my office. Yeah. >> Is there a plan as to how we're going to go about distributing this flyer? And cuz I know I mean depending when it's ready there are some events like
Franklin Day and uh National Night Out and you know >> when is you know >> uh it's usually right around September 15th 19th >> it's only when there is an event where we are being represented as
>> we can also leave them I'm just wondering whether we have a plan like leave so many at the I think we agreed on how many I forget though. >> 150 7575 I think >> 7575 is that what we >> Oh, I have it in my notes.
>> No, it was 150 English. >> 150 >> and 150. >> Yeah, >> I don't remember it in my notes. >> I thought they were more English than >> I think it was more in English and then I don't know. >> We were debating whether we should add German. Yeah,
>> but it wouldn't hurt if we developed like a little plan that's like we can leave so many at the table by uh uh outside of the uh >> the the main the main room where the township has their council meetings
>> here. The lobby. Yeah, the lobby. Yeah, >> the library. >> In the library, too. Yeah. I mean when people go into the meetings I always look I pick up the newspaper and we can always leave some of the flyers there >> the library maybe the senior center the
senior centers >> right get involved >> at the last meeting right did I not write that down >> and I'm wondering whether the retirement communities >> don't want to risk >> because in the retirement communities the landscapers they just
>> pick up the whole thing actually it's ironic But they use the leaf blowers >> to gather the leaves >> to gather the leaves. And right now it doesn't look like the leaf blower ordinances. >> Well, that was the next subject and I
think >> but the two are related. >> They're using the blower. I'm just wondering whether homeowners in these retirement communities if they want to leave the leaves whether they can opt out and notify the office that >> if they do they're going to blow on to
the neighbor's lawn who may have wanted it to >> we said 150 to do we said 150 English 50 Spanish that's what it was >> oh that was the brochures >> but we didn't talk about the um >> the signs and that kind of stuff
>> the signs I don't think we were planning on Well, I got to see how many signs we have. I don't even know. >> Okay. >> I really don't. >> Um, all right. Let me let me reach out to Jenny, too, and see what I can get. >> Okay. >> Yeah. I think as a minimum, uh, Paul, we
can talk to the environmental uh the nature and environment committee if they can take the lead >> on that and somehow it should go to the HOA board. It has to go to HO board. Yeah.
>> Yeah. And and somebody should discuss it because they just clean everything. >> The leaves >> are there to be removed crap. So So it would take a whole like cultural change for them to >> Yeah.
>> But there's over a,000 homes. So >> 150 units all told, right? >> 900 something freestanding homes. The rest are apartments. Yeah. Okay. >> Okay. I'll reach out to her.
>> As Kiki just mentioned, the next item um unfortunately uh is not going anywhere. The uh the council is not in favor of it. Nor is the mayor. So, it won't it won't pass. town council.
>> This is one of the reasons that I was wondering about our council, our liaison coming, >> right? >> That you know, he's missed all these meetings when ever since we put that forward and we could have talked to him about it >> and we didn't have the opportunity.
>> So, what happens? What was the reasoning? The reasoning is the mayor talked to his landscaper and he said, "If you're going to do this, you won't have me as a landscaper anymore." >> Come on. >> I don't know if that's the the reason. I think it's that Yeah. I think it's that
the landscaping community landscapers communities have like really come out against it. That's my >> I think it means that Yeah. the landscapers will be will go out of business >> and the landscapers will not go out of
business. >> There are towns that have this ordinance. >> Um and not >> and those landscapers have not gone out of business in those towns. we should contact >> and and it sounds like that the council
is putting the health and well-being of the majority of the people in Franklin Township over the landscapers. >> So, so my question is what happens >> corporate benefit? >> Does anybody know what happens when the council decides?
>> I would like to be quoted on that in the in the minutes. >> I'm writing it as fast as I do. Arie Schmidt says, "Council is putting health and wellness." That's all I got so far. >> Wellness of the Franklin Township residents.
>> They're they're putting the the the landscapers >> businesses ahead of the health and well-being of the residents of Franklin Township. >> Thank you, Arie. But um
>> and and you know there had been discussion of doing a um referendum. I don't know if they even discussed doing a referendum where if they did that and this can go in also. If they did a
referendum then the people of Franklin Township would have a vote on it to decide. >> So right that's that's one option. And and my question is, even if we assume that the council decides not to support
this, don't they still need to bring it up to the floor? >> No. >> No. >> Unless unless there's a petition from people. >> Okay. So then then what we need to do is is get people to speak during the council meetings.
>> Yeah. in in support of this because I mean from personal experience uh public pressure >> can do something >> uh works and it could tip the balance
in favor of the ordinance but if nobody >> see other than us here I don't know who else knows that this ordinance has been introduced >> it wasn't introduced >> it was not introduced to the council has >> he was not introduced.
>> I don't think so. >> There was never there was never an ordinance put together for only our request for them suggesting to um possibly add it to a township ordinance. >> Right. So, so one of the ways to move
this forward would be to do some community outreach. >> Outreach. Yeah. and and ask people to speak during the council meetings in favor of, you know, we're not talking
about a total ban. >> No, of course. We're talking about a limited use. >> There were times when you could use it and times where you couldn't >> time when you actually use it, you would be allowed to use it. So, >> exactly. >> It's just that,
>> you know. So, I I heard something similar to what you said um from a council person that it probably wasn't going anywhere. Um but was it spoken about during a council session at all? >> No. No. Okay. >> I don't think so. I mean, the town
council meeting I was at was the second reading for the B9 ordinance. >> I understand. I I'm just wondering if they >> maybe the first step, Arie, would be for some of us and uh other people that we know who agree to to go to the council
meeting and and bring it up. So, at least it's on the record. >> As I mentioned, that would really be a function of Councilman Singh. He's our representative to the council. Now, I did resend him the memo like you all asked me to last time and I responded
back to him and he said he was figuring out which committee of the council had he presented to. He thought it was the admin committee and that was the last that I heard. That was the last response I got back. >> He's trying to find his way around. >> But it's not either or. While he's doing
that, we can speak >> so at least it's on the record and then other people hear about it and then we can talk to other people and ask them if it really matters to them, which it should
um to come to the next council meeting. And >> we're not really plowing new ground. It's there are a good number of communities that have done this already. I I think that should be one of our selling points that you know there are
townships that are have already done this. So >> yes, >> and why don't we contact them to find out how they did it? >> Well, we have the text. We have the text that we worked from. >> Okay. All right. >> Cuz why we create the wheel if they did it? >> Text is very similar to what what you
wrote. >> So yeah, uh we can bring >> copy their methodology. Inject may have something as well. >> That's an idea >> on leaf blowers. Yeah. >> Yeah. Let me see. See if >> maybe make an inquiry to an
>> I'm sure they pro if they have it. It's it's on their website. I'm sure. Yeah. >> Leaf blower like they have Maplewood for example in South Orange. >> Yeah. >> Maplewood was the first. >> Yeah. An ordinance to prohibit the use of gas power leaf blowers within the
township of Maplewood. So this was passed in 2021 it looks like was the most recent. >> Wow. uh township years ago. Let me see. And then they limit it with
these hours. Yeah. They use >> What was the reference to 2017? >> I believe that was in the first version of this ordinance was passed. Yeah. >> Yeah. They passed it once and then they made changes to it later on. >> Yeah.
>> Okay. >> 123 is when this took effect. like >> Yeah. So our support. >> Mhm. >> Well, these are the towns that have done it. >> They have Maplewood and South Orange.
>> Bransford. Oh, >> it's quite a few. >> What were the other towns? >> The only one This is So this is Leaf Blower, Maplewood, South Orange. See this invasive plant control is Point Pleasant Beach and how. So they put two for each. >> So they don't have Princeton on there.
>> I know. >> Princeton's sleeping on the job. >> Princeton made uh lots of research on the subject and uh >> they do not have it as strict as Maplewood. >> And uh they have 500 bucks incentives.
>> Well, look at South Orange. It is >> South Orange is any leaf blower is prohibited Saturdays and Sundays 10 to 4. Okay. Yeah. >> Any including battery operated or electric? >> Uh this is for the gas powered leaf
blowers I believe. Let's see. Uh oh no. Just to regulate the use of leaf blowers. >> Yeah. I mean this is not a total ban. We're just talking about the stricter regulation. >> Define leaf blowers. Yes. Uh, this shall
include without limitation leaf blowers that are portable, handheld or back pack style, powered by fuel or electricity via battery, plug in any way, takes away leaves, grass clippings, debris. So, yeah, they've they've outlawed them Monday through Friday 8 to 6, Saturday
and Sunday 10 to 4. >> So, they do include >> hours the purpose of it. >> What time was that? >> Sound orange. Well, they just banned them all together. >> They're much quieter. >> And then the use of gas powered leaf
blowers for any purpose is strictly prohibited beginning 12:01 a.m. on May 1st up to September 30th at 11:59 of each and any year. So, that's an additional >> Well, that's the whole what we did in
the spring and in the fall for the spring and fall cleanups, right? And then their their fines are heavier than a maplewood. Yeah. >> What is this table?
>> This is Yeah, this is the who signs off. >> So, so when we speak at a council meeting, we speak as individual uh citizens, right? not as members of the uh >> well if you it depends if you want to make a vote I guess and you want to vote
as a committee as a commission that you're going to go and speak at the council meeting with a few representatives you can do that but you have to vote on it >> if you prefer to go as individual citizens you're welcome to do that as well >> we as the committee if we would do that
maybe we should bullet point what you know the person would say and then give empower them to speak up. >> So I want to move that um environmental commission has a representative speaking in front of council in favor of uh our
proposed uh ordinance uh on limiting use of gas powered leaf blowers. Second that >> second you say >> any discussion >> I think I think it's a good
>> I think it's a good um it's a good idea to take a position and >> and then we should also invite community on the same day that we are going let the community know that we're doing it >> exactly and and and uh you have to start somewhere
and um by putting it on the record once you speak at the council. Um, you know, you start this this whole process of spreading it out to the community, letting the community know >> and then we can take other measures, you
know, talk to to different other groups or, you know, word of mouth. >> Um, engaging people in a conversation, you know, >> do they bother you? Do do they inhibit your breathing?
>> Use your post. >> Social media. One of ways how Princeton approached it, they open a group on Facebook called Quiet Princeton. And there you can have post. You can
share uh some other ordinances. You can share scientific information about why it hurts, what is the problem with it and personal story >> because from home air Franklin
>> I want to open the door to get fresh air and all that I hear is and it's not 5 10 minutes it's just on and on and on and next day someone else Right. Right.
>> So more people are working from home. Maybe not as many as uh just after pandemic, but uh it's it's more norm and um it's it's just um >> yeah, we have to speak to the residents
quality of life. The quality of life has changed. Yes. >> And we can change it back. >> And of course, you know, there are many people who are concerned. How about the clean air in in Franklin because of the increase of warehouses and the number of trucks?
>> I don't know how long do we have the the thing called a leaf blower but let's say that 30 40 years ago it didn't exist. >> So somebody came up with this idea and took it as an entitlement to make money on using them right
>> and now when we say hey you are going over the board and we are wrong. Unless they want to like retool the the leaf blower, make it quieter, >> you know, have it have the electric.
>> Does anybody remember how I mean uh let's see u my daughter is 40. So 354 years ago uh my family lived in Lakewood in our first house was a ranch had a whole lot
of trees around and we did not have a leaf blower. >> Yeah. >> We were had bricks raking the leaves >> no longer put them in plastic bags. >> The kids would love to just jump on it. Okay.
>> Yes. Yes. So, are you saying that the the the rake lobby got to the count >> that well maybe the high school students that would benefit from you know being hired for a couple of hours to rake the
leaves maybe they can all speak up because that's basically what you know people who could not rake their own leaves they would ask the neighborhood kids just like shovel the snow rake the leaves those were the summer
Think about it like today AI is taking jobs. >> The leap role is taking jobs from those students. >> Absolutely. >> You don't want the landscapers hear you saying that. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> They'll be up in arms.
>> So, so it is >> burn a few calories, >> right? Exactly. It's a form of exercise. Use your muscles. Gardening. >> Yeah. And it's meaningful exercise. It's not like you know driving to uh gym so that I exercise and then driving back
home right so I mean you're burning gas and then you're consuming energy >> right >> when you exercise instead of using Okay I'm just >> No, I'm with you. >> I have written down Stan made the motion and Arie second it. >> He did. >> That was exciting for a few minutes.
>> We're going to take a vote. >> Yes, it was. >> Yeah. >> I Okay, >> it passed. Okay. So, you guys will work out amongst yourselves like when you're going to go speak and with what and he'll >> talk to the councilman sing also.
>> Yeah. >> I think we need to bring him up to speed. >> Mhm. >> Well, we voted but we didn't specify who is going to >> Right. You guys should I uh I recommend these two gentlemen. Well, I think as many of us
>> as That's true. >> I think we should go, but she's recommended that one of you or both of you speak with the, you know, speakers. >> I'm saying >> I mean I would speak to be the only one. I know Stan's a good speaker, but anybody else that wants to speak,
>> I still think we should have bullet points. the main thing we want to say that we're in you know >> right so I think two people should be assigned to cover specific bullet points >> and then the others who want to speak they can speak from a personal
perspective >> support the bullet points ahead >> those diverse not just men but men and women maybe >> very nice >> I don't think in this case will right there. We'll speak, you know.
>> Um, >> we'll have to work out a schedule. >> Back to raking. I remember raking. >> I I had done quite a bit of raing. >> Part of my allowance. >> See, >> what'd you do with that quarter?
>> You're right. It was a quarter. I got put it I put it in my piggy bank. And I still have my piggy bank. All right. Still in use. All right. >> All right. >> I have nothing on the update of the open space plan. Still nothing
discussion. >> I don't have any other old business. Uh we could open the floor to public comment. >> Move to open. Move. >> So all in favor? I >> any comments from the employees?
>> Okay. Did you have fun? >> Did you suggestions for improvement? It's very informative. Yeah. >> Oh, good. >> You learned you learned something. >> Yeah. Yeah, definitely. >> What do you think about leaf? >> I think they're annoying. Yeah.
>> There you go. >> Thank you. >> Talk to your neighbors. >> Where do you live? >> Where do you live? >> Um, Aimwood Court off New Brunswick Road. >> New Bronley Road. >> Okay.
to go to. >> So, are you in a planned community? >> No. >> No. >> Yeah. >> You're an individual, huh? >> Oh, no. It's um >> Quailberg >> connected to Yeah, it's um Trend Maker something. >> Yeah, I'm in Trend Makers. I'm in Trend
Makers off of Martino. >> Um >> or behind the golf course. You're Trend Makers North. >> On the other side. Yeah. Of New Brunswick Road by the golf course. Yeah. On the other side. Yeah, >> we have 136. >> I wouldn't call it a planned community.
>> It is. >> Under the law, common interest communities. I mean, Quailbrook, you know, the developer Calton Holmes planned it. You're self-governed. >> All communities are planned. >> Well, that's true, too.
>> Okay. Anyway, um motion to close the public comment period. >> All in favor? I. >> Motion to adjurnn. So move. All >> in favor? >> I I