Sustainable Jersey evolved out of the “green Mayors” group at the NJLM working in partnership with others, including the NJDEP. The program was launched in 2009 and became a non-profit in 2012. Since then 464 of NJ’s 564 municipalities have registered, including Eastampton, Lumberton, Medford, Moorestown, Mount Holly and Mount Laurel, and the program has given out over $5M in grants.
Hainesport was registered as a participant by a resolution at the March 2023 Township meeting. This needs to be followed by the mandatory establishment of a ‘Green Team’ which then begins work on documenting existing actions and starting new ones. Hainesport has already completed several actions including in the action categories of Health & Wellness, Natural Resources, Waste Management, Brownfields, and Public Information & Engagement.
We do need to undertake two Priority Actions which could be as simple as a Fleet Inventory or a Municipal Carbon Footprint. We could also qualify through up to three ‘Innovative Community Projects,’ which could include the Development of the Creek Turn Park, and our support for the designation of Rancocas Creek as a National Water Trail. Each initiative benefits Hainesport residents by making the town greener and cleaner AND has the potential to qualify us for future grant money.
If you are interested in serving as a resident volunteer, please email a resume and letter of intent to aevans@hainesporttownship.com by June 30, 2023.
