Sustainable Jersey Certification Report

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This is the Sustainable Jersey Certification Report of Howell Twp, a Sustainable Jersey silver certified applicant.

Howell Twp was certified on October 11, 2022 with 360 points. Listed below is information regarding Howell Twp’s Sustainable Jersey efforts and materials associated with the applicant’s certified actions.

Contact Information

The designated Sustainable Jersey contact for Howell Twp is:

Name:Brian Geoghegan
Title/Position:Township Manager / Administration
Address:4567 Route 9 North
Howell, NJ 07731
Phone:732-938-4500 x 2102

Actions Implemented

Each approved action and supporting documentation for which Howell Twp was approved for in 2022 appears below. Note: Standards for the actions below may have changed and the documentation listed may no longer satisfy requirements for that action.

  • Animals in the Community

    Pledge Supporting NJ Wildlife Action Plan

    10 Points

    Program Summary: On May 18, 2015, Howell Township Council adopted Resolution R-15-140 which states that Howell Township is in support of the New Jersey Wildlife Action Plan and will take steps with regard to municipal land-use decisions to make Howell Township an ecologically sustainable community. The steps include: * updating and further identifying imperiled species * Howell updated the ERI in 2021 to incorporate and acknowledging wildlife species that are in need of protection and the areas where these species rside in the town * The Howell Lake Restoration & Wildlife Management Committee was established to assist with the maintenance and management of Township owned lakes, ponds, and the wildlife habitat existing within the Township. Due to the acquisition of large tracts of contiguous lands by the Township, consideration has to be given to the surface waters that exist within them and the wildlife that are dependent upon them for their survival. It is recognized that this interrelationship can only be maintained in a healthy state by monitoring these two activities so that they complement each other. * Howell has become a registered Community Wildlife Habitat and is working with National Wildlife Federation & NJ Audubon to provide the community with information on how to coexist and support local wildlife * Establishment of a wildlife management program for Bear Creek Open Space Area * promote the management of all protected lands to promote biodiversity * protect wildlife habitats and maintain connectivity of habitat when formulating open space acquisition strategies * Distribute wildlife habitat literature at community events Howell Township will seek to minimize disturbances of critical wildlife populations and their habitats when possible and appropriate, Howell Township will work with neighboring municipalities to implement the aforementioned steps across municipal boundaries. When possible and appropriate, Howell Township will strive to monitor and implement appropriate management of municipal easements to ensure native vegetation and wildlife takes precedence over invasive and/or exotic species. Pledge Supporting NJ Wildlife Action Plan - Resolution for 2022 is on the Howell Council Agenda for September - once adopted the updated resolution will be forwarded

  • Brownfields

    Brownfields Inventory & Prioritization

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township of Howell prioritized sites to be redeveloped, as per its 1999 Master Plan. These now abandoned sites, which were utilized for industrial or commercial purposes for a number of years, had contaminated soil, groundwater and/or surface waters onsite. The Township Green Team looked more closely at the eleven sites listed on the NJ Brownfields Site Mart website, and also examined NJ DEP’s list of contaminated sites in the Township and US EPA’s Facility Registry Service (FRS) listing of hazardous waste disposal sites in Howell. The examination looked at site ownership, proximity to residential properties, and redevelopment potential. The Green Team shared its findings with the Township Environmental Committee, Planning Board, Departments of Public Works and Administration, and Council, seeking feedback from all of them. The redevelopment and/or cleanup of these sites would benefit all the residents of Howell Township.

    Brownfields Reuse Planning

    5 Points

    Program Summary: In accordance with the Howell Township 1999 Master Plan regarding Brownfields Reuse Planning Comprehensive Objective – “to encourage the redevelopment of vacant or underutilized properties” pg. 4(a) Specific Objectives – “evaluate potential for economic and rehabilitation plans in specific locations …” Two Comprehensive Objectives – (a) Commercial properties on Rt. 9 and Rt. 33, and Randolph Rd. for light industrial development; (b) amend to create Firewood Acres Commercial District along Rt. 9 and change Rt. 33 zoning for more cohesive areas for commercial development pg. 46 (32)

  • Community Partnership & Outreach

    Create Green Team

    10 Points
    Bronze Required Silver Required

    Program Summary: Resolution No. R-09-377 established the Green Team in Howell Township. Currently, the Green Team consists of 15 members including Mayor Theresa Berger, Councilwoman Evelyn O'Donnell, Township Manager Brian Geoghegan, Public Works Director Paul Novello, Planning Board representative Brian Tannenhaus, two (2) Environmental Commission Members (Nicholas Huszar and Gerard Barron, Shade Tree Commission member Lisa Doud (Chair), and Mary Ann Cernak, a member of the Lake Restoration and Wildlife Management Committee. The Howell Township Green Team will advise the Township Council on ways to improve municipal operations and activities with "Green" initiatives that make practical, environmental, and financial sense. The Howell's Township Green Team meets once per month and the current member roster is attached. In addition, GoToMeeting conference calls are used on an as-needed basis to discuss Green Team items. Members, Purpose, Schedule of Meeting, and Minutes of the Green Team meetings can be accessed at the following link: https://www.twp.howell.nj.us/AgendaCenter/Municipal-Green-Team-20 Attached is the proclamation from the Town Council supporting the green team.

    Green Fair

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Howell Day looked a little Greener this year thanks to the Howell Township Green Team. The Green Team, along with members of the Township, decided to incorporate a Green Fair into the annual family-fun day of games, rides, face painting, food, live entertainment and fireworks at Solider Memorial Park in Howell Township on September 25, 2021 from 3pm - 8pm. The Green Fair was about teaching Howell residents what activities they could incorporate into their daily lives to be "greener" including composting and organic gardening. The team agreed the Green Fair goal was to inform and educate residents about specific sustainable activities that support living in an environmentally responsible manner. The Green Team will accomplish this by: 1) Highlighting specific actions Township elected officials and employees have been/are engaging in to maximize efficiency while reducing costs and energy use. 2) Providing attendees of all ages with examples of specific sustainable activities they incorporate into their own lives. 3) Actively recruit new green team members and supporters (individuals, organizations and businesses). Throughout the months of planning the event, the team sought to actively engage a wide range of support and involvement. We contacted and enlisted the help of elected officials, township employees, community not-for-profits, service organizations and businesses. The Green Team gave out seed packets and had several games that were environmentally-themed. Green Facts were posted on signs throughout Solider Field and gave facts such as: Howell saves 75 trees per year by purchasing 30% recycled paper; Switching the lights int he municipal parking garage to LED bulbs saved the Township nearly $2,000 per year; Howell diverted over 66,000 tons of waste from the landfill in 2016; Between 2012 and 2017, Howell Township saved 419 tons of carbon dioxide by reducing gas and electricity consumption - the same as removing 88 cars from the road or taking 44 homes off the grid. Receptacles were set up throughout the field for food waste and was donated to the Howell Organic Garden for composting. Buses were used for mass transit so people did not have to drive to the event. In addition, bicycle racks were put at the field. Organizations and vendors at the Green Fair included Howell Township OEM, Community Development, Senior Services, Community Relations, Municipal Alliance, DPW, Clerks Office, Green Team, Environmental Commission, Library, Shade Tree Commission, Police and Fire Bureau, in addition to outside organizations such as the Monmouth County Parks, NJ Natural Gas, and the Monmouth County Health Department. It was also posted on the Howell Township Facebook Page and Howell Township website

  • Emergency Management & Resiliency

    Community Wildfire Protection Plans

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The New Jersey Forest Fire Service and Howell Township have completed an in-depth review of the Township’s wildfire fighting capabilities, fire risk, fuel hazard classifications, and past fire occurrences. This study ultimately led to the development of the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. The intent of this plan is to encourage the municipality and its residents to: 1. Recognize their responsibility to protect themselves and their property from wildfires; 2. Determine and prioritize fire protection options available; and 3. Implement the selected methods to reduce their exposure to the threat of wildfire. The Township of Howell is committed to implementing the above items to create a safer environment for all residents. Residents are also urged to make their own homes safer to mitigate any possible damage in the event of a wildfire. Some safety-measures include: removing flammable materials such as needles and leaves from the roof, gutters, and property. Installing nonflammable metal mesh to all vents on the roof, chimney openings, and crawl spaces can reduce damage done during a fire as well. Finally, replacing wood fences with metal or installing metal flashing or gates on the fence portion closest to the house is helpful as well. The development of Howell’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan provides the municipality and first responders with a comprehensive battle plan in the event of an emergency. Extensive information regarding local wildfire origins, escape routes, water sources, land ownership, fuel reduction projects, and emergency service locations was obtained. These resources are powerful tools for addressing wildfire risk.

    Ready Set GO! Fire Company

    5 Points

    Program Summary: The Howell Fire Bureau held several events over the past two years to promote the Ready Set Go Program. We attended a Howell Day event in September 2021 and visited with approximately 700 people. We were able to explain the program and the need to be prepared. We also handed out ready kits as provided by the State of NJ. During Fire Prevention week in October, the Howell Fire Bureau set up displays in the community and again discussed the program with numerous residents. Attached are the document from the IAFC Ready Set Go Program showing our total hours, etc. All Howell Township Fire Companies are registered as Ready Set Go Fire Companies

  • Energy

    Fleet Inventory

    10 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: The Howell Township Fleet Program has addressed sustainability by monitoring current trends, implementing programs, and maintaining vehicles to reduce emissions. The program's goal is to reduce pollution and increase the use of renewable resources. As of September 2016, Howell Township Fleet Inventory numbered 206 on-road vehicles incorporating: 104 gasoline fueled cars and sport utility vehicles, 15 gasoline fueled light-duty trucks, 4 gasoline fueled heavy-duty, 47 diesel fueled light-duty truck and buses, 34 diesel fueled heavy-duty vehicles, and 2 hybrid sports utility vehicles. The Township programs have taken several approaches. One example is purchasing 6 cylinder police vehicles instead of 8 cylinder. This started in 2012 with the purchase of 6 cylinder administrative vehicles and advanced with the purchase of 2014 patrol Sport Utility Vehicles. The older inefficient vehicles were sold at auction. Fifteen (15) diesel trucks were retrofitted with active and passive diesel particulate filters (DPF). All 2007 and older trucks had a data logger installed and were outfitted with a DPF based on the truck's duty cycle. All 2007 and newer vehicles are delivered with a DPF. In addition, Howell Township adopted a No-Idling Resolution and newer municipal trucks comply with the Clean Air Act or have an auto shut off after 3 minutes idle time. The Vehicle Maintenance Department maintains all vehicles in an effort to reduce fuel usage and waste oil. The benchmark for vehicle replacement is 10 years or 100,000 miles. In an effort to lower its carbon footprint, Howell Township is exploring the feasibility of hybrid vehicles, 3 cylinder engines, and biofuels. These initiatives will be monitored as technology progresses. In addition, GPS is being use to improve the efficiency of leaf collection, bulk collection, snow plowing and street cleaning routes. By building on our current foundation and implementing new programs, Howell Township will further its goal of operating an environmentally responsible fleet.

  • Food

    Farmland Preservation Plans

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Howell Township Farmers Advisory Committee meets once a month (fourth Thursday of every month) at 7:30pm at the Municipal Building and is active in vocational or avocational farm use activity. The Committee has an inventory of existing farm uses and provides an assessment of measures to aid the farming community. The Committee also provides recommendations to the Township Council and other public authorities as to the impact of development and planning changes on the farming community. Farmer's Advisory Board Committee Minutes are available at http://nj-howelltownship.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/Farmers-Advisory-Committee-19 The goal of Howell Township’s farmland preservation program is“To preserve, to the maximum extent practical, Howell’s agricultural industry and further enhance the promotion of farmland preservation within the township.” Of the township’s two-cent per $100 assessed property value tax dedicated to fund farmland preservation, open space, and passive recreational projects, one cent is allocated for farmland preservation projects only (Monmouth County Planning Board and Birdsall Services Group, May 2011). Based on the 2015 land use data, farmland accounts for about 7.2% of the total land in Howell Township, with a total of 2,838.25 acres actively farmed.

    Community Food Pantry/Bank & Soup Kitchen

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Howell Community Food Bank is located at 449 Adelphia Road in Howell and distributes food to individuals in need on Mondays from 10am-12pm. The Community Garden and local community members provide donations to the Howell Community Food Bank. Howell Township donates a municipal building with a parking lot to the Howell Emergency Food Pantry for which the Food Pantry pays $1.00 per year. The Pantry accepts food donations from the public, as well food from the Fulfill Food Bank in Neptune, NJ (which serves Monmouth and Ocean Counties). Approximately 50% the Pantry’s provisions come from community donations, and the remaining amount come from the Food Bank. The Food Bank’s food supply comes primarily from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the State of NJ. The Pantry distributes food in one mass distribution each month, and in cases of a Township emergency, such as house fire. It serves about 50 families each month. The Pantry provides monthly reports to Fulfill, regarding the distribution of the food it receives from them.

    Community Gardens

    20 Points

    Program Summary: At Howell Day 2013, the HOCG was born: Fliers were distributed, emails were collected from prospective members, and the idea was presented to then Mayor Gotto and Deputy Mayor Nicastro, who were immediately supportive. HOCG was established as a non-profit organization in July 2014, and later as a 501c3 organization in 2016. Over the next two years and a few council meetings later, the USDA came in to test the land for contaminants (this came out clean). After this, the Howell Township wrote and approved the land lease. The Howell Township Council introduced an ordinance authorizing the execution of a lease agreement with the Howell Organic Community Garden. The Ordinance took effect on September 29, 2014. Land maintenance is provided at no cost by the Howell Township Department of Public Works. When establishing the Garden, Howell Township supported the efforts in obtaining a water sources and providing labor services conducted by the DPW. The Township continues to supply the Garden with composted leaves, as well as mows the grassy areas, and performs cleaning of the land of debris and garbage. NJ American Water's community outreach department was contacted to request a connection to the domestic water supply on Adelphia Road. Continuing to contact project managers there at NJ American Water and got the water tap, construction, and meter fees -- approximated at $7K -- waived and installed. HOCG proudly allocates its perimeter plots in addition to six 4x20 plots to grow produce for PAR! Members volunteer in planting, maintaining, harvesting, and delivering fresh produce to our neighbors in Howell. The vegetables are donated to 6 food pantries on various weekdays in Howell Township. The PAR poundage during the 2021 season hit an all-time high of 2,779 pounds HOCG is a proud member of NJ Resource Working Group. NJRWG is comprised of Green Team, DPW, HOCG, schools, the ESTC, Lake Committee, and the Farm Advisory.

    Farmers Markets

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The 2021 season of the Howell Sunday Farmers’ Market ran from Sunday,April 18 and ran every Sunday through October 31, featuring locally-grown produce, handmade goodies from 50 vendors and live entertainment. The 2022 Farmer's Market will begin in May and run through October. Visitors and residents enjoy the finest in locally-grown produce, bedding plants, flowers, homemade goods and crafts, all set against the backdrop of the Howell Township Municipal Building in a high visibility area. Weekly entertainment has helped to create a “mini-festival” atmosphere at the market. The Howell Farmers' Market Association is comprised of a group of civic minded citizens of Howell who are working with the Township of Howell to manage a seasonal market. The Farmer's Market has a Facebook page and is supported by posts on the Howell Township website. • The market is held on township property, in front of the municipal building via a formalized limited use agreement giving exclusive access to the parking lot on Sundays • The township provides marketing assistance by posting notices on twitter, on its television station and on two portable solar powered electronic signs posted at busy intersection locations in the township. • The township provides access to restrooms for the vendors and volunteers by allowing key card access to the municipal building on Sundays during the market. • The township allows use of the trash dumpsters for recycling and other trash generated during the market. • Electric for the pa system for the musicians is provided by the Township. • Township council members regularly discuss the market operation during portions of the council meetings when local events of interest are discussed. • The township attorney is a member of the Association and a liaison to the Township Council and manager. • The township fire inspector provides inspection of any food trucks at a limited cost one time basis without requiring inspections on a weekly basis.

    Making Farmers Markets Accessible

    5 Points

    Program Summary: The Howell Farmer's Market is accessible by bus and located 0.2 miles from the nearest bus stop and bus service is available during market hours. The Howell Farmer's Market has at least one vendor who accepts both EBT and FMNP vouchers. The Howell Farmer's Market is working with additional vendors to accept these methods of payment. The Howell Municipal Government actively supports the farmers’ market by promoting the market, allowing the market to operate on municipal land and provides in kind donation of municipal staff resources to support the market.

  • Green Design

    Green Building Policy/Resolution

    5 Points

    Program Summary: On May 18, 2015, Howell Township Council adopted Resolution R-15-138 that supports and promotes a program of Green Building. Howell Township will continue to review and update all Ordinances and all land use decisions to incorporate green building standards. In addition, the Township is currently designing a green building scorecard to be utilized as part of all Planning, Zoning, and Building applications for approvals. The Township will incorporate the proposed green building scorecard as part of the documents required for submittal of application for site plan review. Howell Township will distribute green building educational information as part of the approval and permitting process to residents, contractors, developers, property owners, and all interested participants in the Township's Green Building Policy Programs. The link for the resolution can be found at https://ecode360.com/documents/HO2064/public/187202575.pdf A letter from the Green Team has been forwarded to the following town officials including the Town Manager, Town Council, Community Development, Planning and Zoning Boards reminding them of the Green Building Policy.

    Upgrade/Retrofit-Light Pollution

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Outdoor Lighting Policy for Howell Township can be found in Chapter 188 (Land Use) Article IV (Standards of Performance) Ordinances 188-18 (Glare) and 188-22 (Lighting). The ordinances state that all exterior lighting and lighting resulting from any manufacturing or assembly operations shall be shielded, buffered, and directed as approved on the site plan so that any glare, direct light, or reflection will not interferer with the normal use of nearby properties, dwelling units, and streets. All area lighting shall provide for lights focused downward, translucent fixtures and shielding, and shielding to prevent light spillage off the site. No light shall shine directly into windows or onto streets and driveways in such a manner to create a nuisance or interfere with or distract driver vision. The objective of these qualifications is to minimize undesirable off-site effects.

  • Innovative Projects

    Innovative Community Project 1

    10 Points

    Program Summary: • For 7 years, School Outreach Coordinator, Mary Ann Cernak, Ph.D., LCSW assumed leadership for developing and expanding a program which has established and continues to expand to include a number of activities which mutually benefit the MGT, EC, and local public K-8 schoolteachers and students. • Since the initial project, all participants have enthusiastically supported and engaged in program activities. Over time, numbers and types of activities increased as did the recognition, support, and involvement throughout the community. • Interested teachers, MGT and EC members have been and continue to be encouraged to offer and/or request specific services including: o Consultation from MGT and EC members with specific specialized training and experience, on environmental and sustainable projects being undertaken by students. o Providing students opportunities to meet directly with MGT, EC, township management and elected officials and present results and recommendations based on their science projects focused on local climate-change related and sustainability issues. o Technical assistance from MGT School Coordinator in seeking and applying for grants to provide specialized training materials to improve and enhance students’ learning. • One of the most significant project outcomes occurred when based on a written request and Power Point presentation, the township manager and elected officials agreed to develop and unanimously approve a formal Resolution of Support for the program between the MGT, EC and the local public school system. Ultimately, this document was sent to and shared with school board members, Superintendent, and his staff. This includes the Director of K-8 Science Education. Erin Fedina, who from the beginning has been involved and has very actively facilitated and supported the project. She is the designated liaison who coordinates and approves all requests to and from the school staff. • As per directions, the Resolution and documentation for several types of projects provided below. As part of the NJ PowerSave program, we were asked to share our knowledge with the community through our final presentation. Our third grade students have put together a video that summarizes their year in the program and their findings. You will be able to access our final presentation at the following Google link - Final Presentation link - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jRyOVbnOPBh0AdTRBWwdPX8LTvCR17Yt/view

    Innovative Community Project 2

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Howell Community Wildlife Habitat The Community Wildlife Habitat project will focus on remedying the common conflict between the natural world and development of human communities in that often the building of a house, yard, or other human-designed structure or landscape results in the alteration or removal of essential habitat for the natural wildlife living in that area, and especially the wild animals dependent on that habitat. The Community Wildlife Habitat will also include a Pollinator Garden made possible by a PSEG Sustainable Jersey Grant. The Pollinator Garden will incorporate native plants. The garden will provide a corridor for pollinators to get the resources they need for survival. Community volunteers will plant and maintain the garden along with educating the community on the importance of incorporating pollinator plants into their landscape. NJ Audubon will provide a workshop on how to plant a pollinator garden and incorporate native plants into home landscapes to benefit wildlife. Community Wildlife Habitat volunteer events are being offered in order to encourage residents to help Howell attain Certified Community Wildlife Habitat status and learn how to certify their properties as a Garden for Wildlife, an essential step towards the town becoming a Certified Community Wildlife Habitat.

  • Natural Resources

    Natural Resource Inventory

    20 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Howell Township's Environmental Resource Inventory (ERI) was completed in February 2021 by Deborah Kratzer of Kratzer Environmental Services and the Howell Township Environmental Commission. The ERI was incorporated as part of the Conservation Element of the Howell Township Master Plan (https://www.twp.howell.nj.us/Archive.aspx?AMID=75). The Howell Township Environmental Commission is responsible for periodically updating and re-examining the ERI, as part of and in conjunction with the Master Plan updates, in accordance with the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL) every 6 years, at a minimum. The purpose of an ERI is to identify and describe the natural resources of a community. A community's natural resources - its soil, water, air, forests, fields, and waterways - are fundamental to its character. They are the foundation for its economic success and its quality of life. The protection and wise use of those natural resources is essential to the public health, safety, and welfare of current and future residents. The ERI provides the basis for the development of methods and steps to preserve, conserve, and utilize those resources.

    Environmental Commission

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Howell Township Environmental Commission was established for the protection, development or use of natural resources, including water resources, located within the territorial limits of the Township. In order to carry out these purposes, the Commission shall have the following powers: a) Promoting the conservation and development of the natural resources of the Township. b) Planning, implementing and informing the public about local conservation programs. c) Conducting research into the possible use of the open areas of the Township. d) Recommending to the Planning Board plans and programs for inclusion in a Township Master Plan and the development and use of such open areas. e) Advertising, preparing, printing and distributing books, maps, charts, plans and pamphlets which in its judgment it deems necessary for its purposes. f) Managing donated or purchased lands for conservation purposes and operating conservation programs. g) Acting as the coordinating agency for the community on conservation matters and a liaison between local conservation needs and regional, county, State and Federal agencies administering to those needs. h) It shall keep an index of all open areas publicly or privately owned, including open marsh lands, swamps and other wetlands, in order to obtain information on the proper use of such areas. The Environmental Commission meets the the Howell Township Municipal Building on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month at 7pm. The current member list of the Environmental Commission is attached to the Annual Report.

    Environmental Commission Site Plan Review

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Howell Township Environmental Commission was established for the protection, development, and/or or use of natural resources within the territorial limits of the Township. In order to carry out these purposes, the Commission, which meets twice a month, reviews all site plans and development applications to evaluate potential environmental impacts. Subsequently the Environmental Commission makes recommendations to the Planning Board for the applications. Plat reviews include, but is not limited to, reviewing land use, reviewing significant environmental features and characteristics of the subject property and surrounding areas, evaluating environmental impact statements, reviewing and evaluating site preparation and construction plans, and comparison to various Township and NJDEP maps.

    Open Space Plans

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township of Howell is a community of approximately 51,000 residents on 64 square miles in southern Monmouth County. The township is accessible to several metropolitan areas – New York City, Trenton, Philadelphia, and Atlantic City – where sprawling growth is rampant. Major transportation routes cross the township, which brought tremendous residential growth throughout the 20th century and into the 21st. Howell Township has managed this growth but needs to plan its remaining growth carefully, protect the rural and farming aspects of its community, which are at risk, and accommodate recreation opportunities for an increasing population. Three additional open space areas have been acquired in addition to those outlined in the ROSI including a portion of the Van Schoick tract near Bear Swamp, the New Beginnings tract near Deerwood Park and the United Talmudical on Fort Plains Road.

    Clustering Ordinance

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Howell Township adopted several ordinances and are posted on the Township website under the E-Code Book link. The Cluster Ordinance is an accumulation of various ordinances: Ordinance O-83-32 adopted August 22, 1983, Ordinance O-85-04 adopted February 12, 1985, Ordinance O-88-26 adopted June 13, 1988, Ordinance O-89-55 adopted November 27, 1989, Ordinance O-91-25 adopted March 25, 1991, and most recently Ordinance O-12-18 adopted October 16, 2012.

    Tree Protection Ordinance

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Howell Township passed Tree Removal and Replacement Ordinance in December 2004 by Ordinance No. 0-04-22. It can be found under Chapter 188: Land Use, Article XXII: Woodlands Management, specifically 188-191 which discusses the protection of trees. The discussion and complete Ordinance can be found at www.ecode360.com/6673126. A PDF copy is also attached.

    Community Forestry Management Plan & NJUCF Accreditation

    20 Points

    Program Summary: Howell Township has reached an approved status, which is awarded with the four requirements of the New Jersey Shade Tree and Community Forestry Assistance Act (P.L. 1996, Chapter 135). To reach the approved status, Howell Township has stayed up to date with our Community Forestry Management Plan, Core Trained Community Representatives, Continuing Education Credits, and Annual Accomplishment Report.

    Tree Hazard Inventory

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Howell’s Certified Tree Expert (CME Associates) perform a survey of Howell’s outroads for hazardous trees. The consultant was to identify trees that they feel pose a hazard to the populace, rate the priority of action (priority 1, 2 and 3), identify removal or prune, if utility lines are present, and to divide Howell into three areas, North, Central and South. The consultant identified a total of 362 trees that needed removal or pruning. Further breaking this amount down, 93 of these trees are the responsibility of JCP&L, and 269 will be Howell’s responsibility. Out of these 269 trees, 137 are rated Priority 1, or should be addressed immediately. The Priority 1 trees are further broken down into 114 requiring removal, and 23 needing pruning. There were 106 trees rated Priority 2, with 89 requiring removal, and 17 needing pruning. Rounding out the survey is 26 Priority 3 trees, 25 requiring removal, and 1 needing pruning.

    Tree Planting Programs

    10 Points

    Program Summary: On October 24, 2020 the Howell Environmental Commission along with over 100 Community Volunteers planted 757 trees and transform Winston Park Back to a Forested Area. The Roots to Rivers Grant from Sustainable Jersey and the Nature Conservancy provided funding for the 757 sapling trees and shrubs and tree protection for all of the plants. The Shade Tree Commission provided funding for fencing to enclose the planted area providing additional provide additional protection for the saplings and shrubs.

  • Operations & Maintenance

    Recycled Copy Paper

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Howell Township purchases and utilizes Staples 30% Recycled Copy Paper, Letter-size 92/104 US/Euro Brightness, 20 lb., 8.5" x 11" for the majority of all printing-related work. This eco-friendly paper meets the EPA CPG Criteria and is FSC certified. It also contains 30% recycled post-consumer content. Invoices from Staples to Howell Township Purchasing Department are attached to illustrate Howell Township is on-contract with Staples for 30% recycled copy paper deliveries. The copy paper history from 2012 to 2015 is also provided to illustrate the purchases were from Staples Advantage for the above-mentioned recycled copy paper. 2017 update: Bills from the previous 12 months have been uploaded to reflect the ongoing purchasing of 30% recycled paper.

  • Public Information & Engagement

    Online Municipal Public Service Systems

    15 Points

    Program Summary: Online public service systems - for resident’s convenience, the Township of Howell provides easy access to the Township’s most requested applications and forms. Links are provided on the Howell Township website for a large variety of Township Applications and Forms including Clerk's Office forms/applications, Construction Code information, Engineering Applications, Land Use, Planning & Zoning Board Applications, Fire Bureau, Public Service, Public Works, Emergency Management and Tax Collector. Below is the link for the Howell Township Forms & Applications page. https://www.twp.howell.nj.us/318/Applications-Forms

  • Sustainability & Climate Planning

    Municipal Carbon Footprint

    10 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Municipal Carbon Footprint analysis was conducted for Electricity, Gas consumption and Fleet Emissions for the baseline year 2021. Total Emissions stand at 2285.087 Metric CO2e, with Fleet Emissions accounting for 1122.505 Metric CO2e (49%) and Energy Consumption accounting for the remainder of 1162. 581Metric CO2e. In Energy Consumption, 62% of the emissions is accounted in Electricity Usage and 38% through use of Natural Gas. Direct Install program is being undertaken in four of the five major buildings with an estimated 38.66% reduction in Weighted Energy Use Intensity. Engineered Solutions is being evaluated for the Municipal Building and we estimate 10-15% in Energy Savings after implementing Energy Conservation Measures. The township is also exploring the option to procure cheaper and greener electricity by participating in NJ Sustainable Energy Meeting. Fleet Inventory and DRVE Tool Analysis has suggested that 26 Passenger Vehicles and 6 Medium/ Heavy Duty Vehicles (Internal Combustion Engine) be replaced with Electric Vehicles. We hope to apply for public EV Charger grants and then proceed to develop a procurement strategy for replacement of ICE vehicles in our fleet.

  • Waste Management

    Prescription Drug Safety & Disposal

    10 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Project Medicine Drop was implemented by the Howell Township Municipal Alliance. The mission of the Howell Alliance is to advise the Howell Township Municipal Government and Howell Township Board of Education on current drug and alcohol abuse trends, and to provide subsequent prevention programming addressing these trends. Alliance members are appointed to a one-year term by the Howell Township Council and consist of concerned citizens, police, teachers, school administrators, and members of area service clubs. Links to Project Medicine Drop are on the Township website as well as Channel 77 Howell TV. Howell Alliance also provides a Project Medicine Drop disposal container at the Howell Township Police Department at 300 Old Tavern Road, Howell, NJ and is available and monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please visit the Municipal Alliance website at https://www.twp.howell.nj.us/169/Municipal-Alliance. From January 2019 through June 2021, approximately 1,684 pounds of medication was collected in Howell Township through the Project Medicine Drop container. The prescriptions are taken to a DEA approved incinerator in Newark, NJ. Howell Township also participates in the biannual take-back program through the DEA. Additionally, the Municipal Alliance hands out prescription drop-off bags as a reminder and safe way to turn in unwanted prescriptions. These drop-off bags are also available on the 2nd floor of the Howell Township Municipal Building. The Municipal Alliance can be reached at 732-938-4500, extension 4012. Links to the Project Medicine Drop are on the Municipal Alliance website, as well as informational Powerpoint presentations and videos.

    Community Paper Shredding Day

    5 Points

    Program Summary: On Saturday, June 18 in Howell at the Memorial/Adelphia School, 485 Adelphia Rd in partnership with Monmouth County - the town of Howell will provide our residents with opportunities to eliminate unnecessary paperwork and documents through the Monmouth County Reclamation Center and our local partners. This free event not only helps residents declutter their homes, but also can protect their personal information from identity theft. The types of personal documents that should be shredded include bank statements, medical records, legal documents, utility bills, and anything with a signature. The Paper Shredding event included representatives from the Green Team and the Department of Public Works. 9.92 tons of paper were shredded and over 100 residents attended the event. The Howell Township Shredding Event was advertisement on the Howell Township website, in the local Patch newspaper https://patch.com/new-jersey/howell/ready-declutter-shredding-events-may-help and on the Monmouth County website https://www.co.monmouth.nj.us/PressDetail.aspx?ID=3523,

    Construction & Demolition Waste Recycling

    15 Points

    Program Summary: In 2008, Howell Township passed an ordinance adopting the Debris Management Plan that continues to be followed and enforced through 2022. The Plan was modeled after an element in the Monmouth County Solid Waste Plan. Howell Township Recycling Coordinator and the Howell Township Building Department developed a plan that would accommodate applicants, the Township, and the County. The plans and reports have been well received by the applicants. The intent is to encourage the use of recycling options when a project is in the planning stages. Forms are included with permit packages in addition to being available online for electronic submission. The Township of Howell has noticed an increase in recycling awareness among applicants.

    Recycling Depot

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Howell Township Recycling Center located at 278 Old Tavern Road, adjacent to the Public Works Building, is open 7 days a week from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm. The Recycling Department oversees the collection of curbside recycling, operates the recycling center, and provides recycling education. In addition, the Recycling Department monitors businesses and construction projects for recycling compliance. The following recycling are accepted at the recycling center: glass jars and bottles, flattened corrugated cardboard, mixed paper, used motor oil, leaves, brush, automobile batteries, appliances, light metals, used clothing, electronics, aluminum and tin cans, plastic bottles (#1 and #2 pourable bottles) and newspapers. Attached information provides total tonnage received at the Howell Recycling Center over the last 18 months, flyer posted on the Howell Township website, and photographs of the recycling center.

    Backyard Composting Program

    5 Points

    Program Summary: The objective of Howell Township’s educational program is to increase residents’ use of backyard composting. Municipal waste will be reduced as food scraps and yard trimmings are disposed of through backyard composting piles. Waste reduction is important to sustainability by, for example, reducing the need for landfilling and saving energy use. Howell Township’s Backyard Composting program kicked off with a well-attended Backyard Composting Workshop on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 11 a.m. (See attached photos.) The program was publicized on Howell Township’s website, the Howell Green Team’s Facebook page, and with a press release printed in Howell’s weekly newspaper, The Howell Times.

    Grass - Cut It and Leave It Program

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Howell Township encourages leaving grass clipping in place or "Cut It and Leave It" throughout the Township. Attached is the information that is currently available on the Howell Township website as well as at the Howell Township Municipal Building. This information is also distributed at events throughout the Township, including Howell Day and the Howell Green Fair. The Cut It and Leave It document is located on the Howell Township website at: https://www.twp.howell.nj.us/DocumentCenter/View/2185/Cut-and-Leave-Program-Grass-Management?bidId= under the Recycling Department.

    Reusable Bag Education Program

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Utilized Green Team Facebook page to inform community about Plastic Bag Ban and encourage community members to bring Reusable Bags. Provided educational information on advantages of Reusable Bags. Met with Howell Chamber of Commerce to discuss Plastic Bag Ban and benefits of Reusable Bags. Handed out Reusable Bags at community events.