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Sustainable Jersey Certification Report

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

Denville Twp was certified on December 18, 2020 with 440 points. Listed below is information regarding Denville Twp’s Sustainable Jersey efforts and materials associated with the applicant’s certified actions.

Contact Information

The designated Sustainable Jersey contact for Denville Twp is:

Name:John Ciardi
Title/Position:Facilities Manager / Buildings & Grounds/IT
Address:1 Saint Mary's Place
Denville, NJ 07834
Phone:973-625-8300

Actions Implemented

Each approved action and supporting documentation for which Denville Twp was approved for in 2020 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

    Animals in the Community Education *Retired 12/31/23*

    10 Points

    Program Summary: (Note: Ref. Maureen Jones email of 8/5/20 to Don Tidey. This action was initially part of the Community Education and Outreach category but resubmitted under this category.) Our PSEG grant award through Sustainable Jersey was "A Lifetime of Green". Nine seminars were presented to the public. In order to fully meet our grant "Lifetime", Denville Township presented seminars at to a youth audience at its two elementary schools during regular class hours. The progams were administered by the Denville Green Sustainability Committee through the Denville School's BOE Sustainability Coordinator, Mrs. Lydia Stiles. Due to security requirements, these were not made available to the general public and, therefore, not publically promoted beforehand. The goal of each was to discuss habitats, lifestyles, respect and precautions of wild animals. Coordinated with the schools, an assembly for the students was scheduled with various live animals (both native and non-domestic) and displayed to the wonderment of the children. Called "Eyes of the Wild" the presentation is from the Wallaby Tales organization in Pennington, NJ. During the events, the specific habits and environments of the different animals were discussed with the students, along with respect & precautions for each. Each event was timed for approximately an hour due to the young age of some class students (Grades 1-3). Uploaded below is the required supplemental informaton and evidence, school involvement, and photo documentation.

    Companion Animal Management Pledge

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Response to initial review of 7/9/2020 (Progress with the AIC Action PLAN): See the uploaded Response to Review of 7/9/2020. Initial submission: Denville Township helps ensure that companion animals are treated humanely and responsibly. Firstly, an Animal Control Officer has been appointed within the Police Department for many years. Certified as an Animal Cruelty Investigator, she is responsible for animal control and animal cruelty issues. Activities by the township and this department include: - Providing free rabies clinics twice annually - Posted signage/enforcement regarding leaving pets alone in hot vehicles - Educational programs/Pet safety tips such as Never Leave Your Child/Pet Alone in the Car (Northern NJ Safe Kids w/Atlantic Healthcare rep), - Precautions with wildlife awareness as there can be interaction with companion animals - Spay/neuter programs Uploaded here is the Denville Resolution Pledge as well as the memo of verification of its distribution to the pertinent departments/staff. Examples of activities and social outreach information is also provided in the 6 page pdf. Photos of additional signage warning about dogs in hot cars is uploaded which includes the link for Animal Control Ordinance amendment for a new 3-year pet licensing program.

    Pledge Supporting NJ Wildlife Action Plan

    10 Points

    Program Summary: As a resubmission for 2020, the Denville Green Team initiated Denville's Pledge Supporting NJ Wildlife Resolution for re-approval by the current Town Council. The governing body reviewed and approved Resolution R-20-67 and is uploaded below. A copy of the Resolution was forwarded to all required Departments. Addtionally, the Police Department and Health Department also received copies. (See verification memo uploaded below.) Examples of recent activities performed by Denville that are consistent with the Pledge have been uploaded.

  • Brownfields

    Brownfields Inventory & Prioritization

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Denville Township Sustainable Green Team and Environmental Commission working with the Land Conservancy of New Jersey, recently succeeded in the updating of the Township’s 1976 Natural Resources Inventory. Using guidance provided by the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC), a revised Environmental Resources Inventory (ERI) was produced (2014). The ERI provided a limited list of non-residential sites available on the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s (NJDEP) Dataminer site. As part of the Township’s 2014 Sustainable Jersey application, the ERI’s inventory was subsequently augmented using criteria and procedures found on the Sustainable Jersey website regarding “Brownfields Inventory & Prioritization.”

    Brownfields Reuse Planning

    15 Points

    Program Summary: Denville is, when compared to many municipalities in New Jersey, relatively small encompassing just under 13 square miles. With a population of about 16,800 (2010), it has a density of about 1,400 people per square mile. In a state of 566 municipalities, Denville ranks 346th and in Morris county (39 municipalities), it ranks 21st. Economics plays a large role in the use and reuse of any property. When development opportunities come to Denville, they typically usually enter through the office of our current Mayor, Thomas Andes. As part of the Township’s 2014 Sustainable Jersey Certification Application, a Brownfields Inventory was created. In it 25 Active and 4 pending New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) sites warranting remediation were identified. These sites were the legacy of both historic industrialization and modern development. Using this inventory, our Mayor has marketed these site to prospective developers. Over the past four years, the Township has been fortunate to complete the cleanup and redevelop of one brownfield site and has plans to cleanup and redevelop one additional property: • Dorwood Industries (Lake Estling Road): a former furniture finishing facility and subsequently redeveloped and then abandoned paper box manufacturing facility located along a spur of the Morris and Essex NJ Transit Line. This property has been redeveloped into 100 rental units with direct access to the Denville Train Station. • Redmond Press (State Route 53): a closed printing facility also along the Morris and Essex Line. When redeveloped in about 2018, this site will have market rate and affordable rental units with direct access to the Mt. Tabor Train Station. Per the review and must revise comments a signed resolution for Redmond Press has now been uploaded (8/18/17). The Brownfield Inventory and Prioritization prerequisite which does not expire until 2020 has been completed and approved in the previous item within this section.

  • Community Partnership & Outreach

    Create Green Team

    10 Points
    Bronze Required Silver Required

    Program Summary: As a resubmission, we are pleased to note that the Denville Green Sustainability Committee reached its tenth anniversary in 2020. As a township volunteer committee, we are very proud of their contributions to the effort to secure two Sustainable Jersey bronze awards (2010 & 2014) and a silver award in 2017. Uploaded are examples of our "Green Team's" activities: Typical meeting minutes (November), the "Green Team's" roster, a typical post on our social media page, the 2019 Annual Report to the Mayor which summarizes the many activities performed by the Team for the year, and the active initial ordinance creating the committee.

    Community Education & Outreach

    15 Points

    Program Summary: The Green Team was the recipient of a PSE&G grant applied for through Sustainable Jersey. These funds allowed the Green Team to host a number of seminars and lectures during 2019. The "In-Person Checklists" for three are submitted here. Topics were: rain gardens, a survey of agriculture, and a case study on sustainable farming/gardening. Also uploaded here are various promotion examples and event photographs.

    Green Fair

    10 Points

    Program Summary: For our 2019 Fair, the Denville Green Sustainability Committee chose to invite non-profit exhibitors that promote "green" related topics (see uploaded list). Attendees were offered the opportunity to learn more about a wide variety of subject matter. The Fair venue was in conjunction with the outdoor Denville Farmers' Market, ensuring plenty of visitors. Besides our invited exhibitors, our partners included various township departments (Printing flyers, purchasing "green giveaways", parking lot control, transport of tables and chairs for all, etc.) Our Denville TV committee recorded some of the Fair, interviewing exhibitors for our cable channel. The Mayor as well as town Council members toured the event, chatting with exhibitors. Based upon the observed interaction between visitors and exhibitors, we view this Fair as perhaps our most successful.

    "Green" Your Green Fair *Retires 12/31/23*

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Response to 7/2/2020 reviewer's feedback: The choice of exhibitors was the primary example of "greening" the Fair as each had a specific (and different) sustainability topic in an attempt to reach the broadest range of visitor's interest. Fair ads listed many of the exhibitors so the general public was aware of the diverse topics. Specific examples of greening the Fair are provided in the Additional Supplemental Documentation pdf, uploaded below. It includes a photo of our Green Team's landfill awareness topic, a photo of the reusable shopping bags offered to visitors (continuing our plastic bag alternative campaign), photos of other exhibitor's topics, and a link to the live interview with the Mayor and Councilmen to demonstrate the Township's level of solidarity for the Fair. Additonal photos are available, if required. Original submission narrative: For 2019, all of our exhibitors were non-profit organizations with a "green" topic or message to convey. This Fair was held at the same time and venue location as our last submission. "Greening" documentation uploaded to meet this action's requirement are: 1.The Qualitative Assessment which cover the four required "Greening" categories of this action. 2. Examples of promotional methods used for the Fair. Uploaded Supplement information: 3. A list of the exhibitors and their specific "green" topic or expertise (some of which are in sync with this action's greening requirements). 4.The invitation confirmation letter to all exhibitors. In it, we highlight that they emphasize their role in sustainability efforts, and also note that the Fair is in conjunction with the Denville Farmers' Market, exhibiting an example of Support for Local Economies.

  • Emergency Management & Resiliency

    Emergency Communications Planning

    15 Points

    Program Summary: With the Police Department, Denville's OEM Leader and contact person is Mr. Wesley Sharples (973-727-8540). His e-mail address is wsharples@denvillepolice.org Key to communications planning is the conveyance of information, updates, or instructions through a variety of methods. This best serves a varied population where some technologies may not be suitable to all. Examples of the communication channels accessible to Denville residents are provided in the uploaded supplement. These consist of the Township website, Police department website, Township and Mayor's social media pages, Denville OEM and CERT social media pages, RACES website, NIXEL alert/phone system, Denville TV cable PEG (channel 21), Neighbor News & The Citizen print & online newspapers as well as private resident groups. Additionally, both fixed and portable electronic sign boards are managed by the township, as well as posted bulletins at the Municipal Building. Also uploaded is the required checklist and supplemental information.

  • Energy

    Energy Efficiency for Municipal Facilities

    20 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: In response to comments of the review of 9/23/2020, Denville Township is applying for the 15 point category under this Action for one building. Denville has performed significant upgrades to its building portfolio for past submittals. Continuing with this effort to improve municipal energy efficiency, Denville has focussed on its three firehouses (referred to as Union Hill, Valleyview, and Main St. stations). These are applicable building facilities as prescribed by the New Jersey Office of Clean Energy program inventory. The Main Street firehouse station located at 2 Indian Road was chosen for this submission. Uploaded is its EUI calculator spreadsheet. The weighted energy for kWh/Therm usage indicates an energy savings of 18% using the Usage Approach #1 method with actual meter readings after audit. Also uploaded is the required list of specific upgrades performed which includes those for the Main Street Station location. All work was completed in 2019 by listed contractor Donnelly Energy, Wayne, NJ. As supplemental information, pdf summary sheets of kWh and Therm readings as well as invoices of the contractor work have been provided.

    Public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

    15 Points

    Program Summary: In conjunction with a local Boy Scout and his Eagle Scout project, the Township of Denville agreed to have installed an electronic charging station for electric vehicles. A suitable location was designated in a conveniently located parking area of the downtown. Associated Ordinance was established. The power company was contacted and a dual-station charging apparatus was acquired and installed. The Mayor and Business Administrator officiated the opening of the charging station to the public. There is a link to a YouTube posting of the ribbon cutting ceremony attend by the Boy Scout troop, many EV enthusiasts and local officials. The charging station is on the grid of EV charging stations and can be utilized by the public by parking in the stall and inserting their charge card into the apparatus. The Denville Green Sustainability Committee encourages the public use of the charging station as an alternative to fossil fuel-powered vehicles. The Denville charging station is listed in numerous EV station locator mobile applications. Uploaded below is a typical example indicating the location and type.

  • Food

    Community Gardens

    15 Points

    Program Summary: This is a resubmission, not much has changed and continues to be a vibrant activity in Town. The Community Garden is one of the most successful community-based projects supported by the Township of Denville. Established March of 1972, it has the support of the Mayor, the Denville P.R.I.D.E. (a civic organization comprised of volunteers from numerous civic, educational, social, and neighborhood organizations) and the Town Council. One of the founding members of the Garden is currently the administrator of the Garden Project for Denville. The Denville Community Garden is supported by the Township of Denville in the following ways: • The site of the Community Garden is on 5 acre parcel of Township owned property adjacent to the Township’s library • The Township provides: o Liability insurance, and indemnifies the users of the property under the Township’s Insurance Policy o Provides electricity to run the irrigation system pump. o A piping system that allows water to be pumped from the adjacent Rockaway River to a holding tank within the Garden. An internal irrigation piping system provides water to the individual garden plots. o Excess food is donated to local organizations. • The Town’s Department of Public Works provides the following items: o Continual deliveries of mulch during the growing season to the Garden o Cleanup services and trash collection • The Township’s Recreation Department manages the registration process for the annual distribution of the garden plots to ongoing and new participants. The Denville Community Garden utilizes its Facebook Page for communication and promotion. An example its educational usage is the Denville Library's "BookWorm" club for young readers who utilize the Garden. We have eliminated the 5 points for being environmentally friendly.

    Farmers Markets

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Denville Farmers’ Market will kick off its summer season on Sunday, May 3, 2020 with more vendors than ever and brand new initiatives to engage the community. In its eleventh year, the market will feature 25+ vendors ranging from artisan products and food vendors to local farms, offering locally grown fruits and vegetables as well as related items such as honey and dairy. The summer market will be open 8:30am to 1:00pm every Sunday from May 3 to November 22, 2020 at the Bloomfield Ave. parking lot in downtown Denville, NJ. The winter market starts December 6, 2020. Denville Township involvement includes: Offering its Municipal Commuter Parking Lot (see attached photo) on Bloomfield Avenue as the Market's location based upon its large area and downtown location. the Denville Police Department is called upon to reserve the parking area on each Sunday for the Market. (This lot is also an existing regular bus stop site for NJT and Lakeland buses which operate on Sunday. After its initial enabling legislation. in 2013, the Denville Township Council approved an Ordinance granting the Farmers Market to operate all year. The Market continues to grow, in part, due to the popularity of organically grown local products. The Market offers both farm and non-farm local food to businesses and to the community, enhancing sustainability initiatives. At least, two to four of the vendors are farms. Local organic varieties of seasonal fruits and vegetables, local poultry and meats, farm cheeses, local honey, ravioli and a wide variety of local artisan foods promotes the sustainability aspect. Open Sundays 8:30am-1:00pm from May 3rd - November 22, 2020, vendors are charged a nominal permit fee of $50.00 and run their stalls as any other for-profit business as detailed in the attached ordinance.

    Making Farmers Markets Accessible

    5 Points

    Program Summary: The Township of Denville has designated the downtown Commuter Parking lot on Bloomfield Avenue for the Market's location. New Jersey Transit bus schedules to the market location are available on the Farmer’s Market Website (Link in uploaded documentation) In addition, the Lakeland Bus company uses this same bus stop and both operate on the days of the Market (each Sunday). A 14-position bicycle rack is at this location to encourage cyclists. The site location is entirely on one level with ramp/cut-outs in the curbs to allow wheelchair access to the site for accessibility. A designated pedestrian crosswalk connects the Market to other parts of the downtown. (Not repeated here, is additional public promotional material presented under the Farmers Market Action submitted.) The EBT Vendor Acceptance: 1) Union Hill Farm accepts WIC (EBT). Confirmation was provided via direct email from the Farm representative and a copy has been uploaded below as supplemental information.

  • Green Design

    Upgrade/Retrofit-Light Pollution

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township has instituted regulation and guidelines for outdoor lighting (Code 91-5.731) under Resolution 24-10. It includes requirements to promote energy efficiency thereby reducing power consumption as well as specific verbiage to reduce light pollution. Thanks to a TAP grant to continue the Downtown Streetscape Improvement Project the lighting along First Avenue and adjacent parking lot was upgraded. The old sodium vapor street lamps with a broad light trespass output were replaced with “dark skies” lamps incorporating high efficiency LED fixtures while minimizing light trespass.

  • Health & Wellness

    Anti-Idling Education & Enforcement Program

    10 Points

    Program Summary: As a resubmittal, Denville continues its position/pledge on anti-idling through our Resolution, Education, and Enforcement. Uploaded supplemental information includes: - Enforcement Verification: A police record through an OPRA request was made. One summons was issued during calendar year 2019. - Denville's 2020 Anti-Idling Resolution. - Photos of additional new signage (Riverview School lot and Gardner playground area) - Denville's Target Map for Anti-idling (signage areas remain the same and are currently accurate.) - Screenshot of Green Team Social Media regarding NJ Information and Legislation. - Denville provided student education on anti-idling at the elementary level. Students gave drivers information about idling/asked them to sign pledge cards/display them on the bus. (Attached example)

    Building Healthier Communities

    25 Points

    Program Summary: For this re-submission, and in following with Denville's pledge to the Mayors' Wellness Campaign, a number of active programs and resources are cited which address key areas of the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute. The Uploaded items are: --The current MWC pledge along with the responses to the NJHCQI application questions. (A screenshot of our "Healthy Town" listing for Denville Township is also provided.) --The completed forms for each of the four Population Segments. Denville Township's direct involvement includes: -- The Recreation Department, Health Department, Department of Human Services, the MAC and MCPC groups. ( http://www.denvillenj.org/ ) -- The maintenance and access to facilities such as the Denville Senior Center, Denville Library, all fields, parks & playgrounds, all schools and Dial-A-Ride, etc. -- Communication methods include Township Facebook page, Mayor's Facebook Page, Posted Flyers/message boards, Denville Township Webpage, Denville Green Sustainability Facebook page, Inter-departmental memos, Recreation Department Facebook page, Other specific sports social media.

    Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Public Places

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township of Denville has numerous parks, recreational, and playground facilities. In the interest of public health the town has established Ordinance 20-10 prohibiting smoking in these areas. Secondly, under Chapter XXII, Parks and Recreation (General Provisions), adopted code 22-6.13 providing for penalty fines for violations.These document items are included in our submission. Photographic examples of the posted signage prohibiting smoking at various locations is also included in the uploaded documentation. One example of education and communication is given under the Township of Denville's official web page. Visitors may select the Health Department page in which links are provided to Health Education and Public Health sites ( such as GASP) which include the dangers and warnings of smoking. Further, the Health Department offers information on smoking cessation.

  • Innovative Projects

    Innovative Community Project 1

    10 Points

    Program Summary: In response to the initial action review of 7/10/20: -- Follow-up communication with the Library Director and our committee Councilman confirmed the Library would not be open by our September 11 resubmittal date due to township Covid 19 rules. These same rules precluded the use of a public computer kiosk set up in the Municipal building. Additional outreach/promotion examples included: -- Additional Green Team social media posts supporting Push Week and included the NJ Census2020 resource link. -- The Denville Green Team Co-Chairman enlisted as a Census Enumerator and continues activity working low-response neighborhoods. -- A different 2020 Census reminder was posted by the Township on the large downtown LED message board in August. This is a continous, 24/7 reminder that will remain through the filing deadline. This, and other additional supplementary documentation supporting the above efforts has been uploaded with this resubmittal. Initial Submission Narrative: Denville has chosen direct involvement and promotion of the 2020 U.S. Census as its Project 1. -- Beginning with awareness promotion, the town posted flyers, placed pamphlets at town hall, and lawn signs at the Municipal building and other high-traffic areas regarding Census employment opportunities. -- The Denville Green Team posted multiple reminders and the official US census 2020 link on its social media page. -- Further involvement included reminders and information placed on Denville's official town website as well as its Facebook page which including links. -- The town's electric sign in the busy downtown center was used for a repeating 24/7 Census reminder message in the Spring. -- A meeting was held with the Township's Library Director, Ms. Koch, who agreed to dedicate a specific computer set-up at the township Library for a Census Kiosk along with information and log-in help available to anyone by the Library staff. (Note: COVID-19 Corona virus impact included closing of the Denville Library in March, thereby delaying the dedicated computer availability for online submittals. The NJ Census resource pdf for kiosk hosting was emailed to the Director as a reference. The Library also posted a reminder on its Social Media page.

    Innovative Community Project 2

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township is engaged, enthusiastic, and willing to help. As well the well-received outreach by the Denville Green Team to solicit collaboration with other town-based volunteer groups. The Township has approved all plans and designs. Our allotted space is now in front of the Town Hall (see attachments Town Hall Overlay 1 and Town Hall Layout 4).We are collaborating with the Denville Kiwanis Club to identify additional sites for smaller scale monarch gardens around town, we have assisted with planting several of these gardens. We are collaborating with the Denville Beautification Committee to contribute advice and volunteers from their experience maintaining 30+ gardens around town. Additional assistance will come from the local boy/eagle scout programs. We are working with the Township to add a "Monarch Trail" to the Denville Trail System. We plan to install signage next to the Town Hall garden to educate the public on monarch butterflies and the habitat threats posed to them with a Denville Trail System map on the reverse. Additional signage in the various gardens will identify the plants and provide additional passive education on monarch butterflies. Additional collaboration with the Mayor to commit to the National Wildlife Federation's Mayors' Monarch Pledge (short term goal - Leadership Circle; long term goal - Monarch Champions). The longer term goal is to turn this into a truly Township-wide project both geographically and by maximizing the number of local participants.

    Innovative Community Project 3

    10 Points

    Program Summary: (Note: This Action was moved from the Energy Category - "Municipal On-Site Solar System" to this Category Action. Reference email of 7/31/20 from Maureen Jones to Don Tidey.) Denville utilizes a sewer sanitation system throughout the Township. The operation of which requires various dedicated equipment. After review, in an effort to improve efficiency and reliability, the Township Engineering Department proposed a solar powered unit be installed, and was approved by the Township. This is a "stand-alone" structure which performs Controller/Monitor/Measurement/Recorder/Alarm functions on a continuous 24 hour basis. It is located at Primrose Lane in the Beacon Hill section of Denville Township. Uploaded are photographs of the unit's installation and a combined pdf of the manuals of the electric/electronic units within the system. These are powered through the roof-mounted solar panels/charging method: TriStar solar controller/charger, Morningstar 300W AC inverter, Pulsar Ultrasonic level measurement, and ABB Recorder Monitor/Alarm. No baseline electric consumption data was taken as this is a new unit without kWH meter. However, by performing the desired functions, the electric load demand saved is approximately a continuous 0.1 to 0.3 kWH. No separate utlity AC power is required, thus the effective displacement is 100%. Uploaded is the signed Letter of Certification from the Township Administrator (as well as the installation photographs and a compilation of all the equipment manuals associated as mentioned above). This is a unique project for the Township and could spawn other solar conversion efforts, reducing electric utility consumption.

  • Land Use & Transportation

    Sustainable Land Use Pledge

    10 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: The Denville Township Administration re-affirmed our previously approved Resolution R-10-240 providing continued support for the Sustainable Land Use Pledge, which was originally approved on November 23, 2010. The Township Business Administrator re-distributed the approved copy of the resolution to all Department Heads and Board/Committees on June 2, 2020. The uploaded documentation is comprised of the following: 1. Copy of April 7, 2020 Council Meeting Agenda . 2. A copy of the email from Township Administrator to all Department heads re-affirming R-20- 80, on June 2, 2020 which included the suggested additions from Sustainable Jersey 3. Council-approved Land Use Pledge Resolution R-20-80 which is included as part of the Council meeting official minutes and available on file in the township Clerk's office.

    Effective Parking Management

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Mayor of Denville with the consent of the Township Council engaged Rutgers University and Seton Hall University to complete a joint study of parking and parking allocation in Downtown Denville. The 2014 Study determined that there existed a sufficient supply of parking in the Downtown area. It further recommended that a new parking map be prepared describing the allocation of both on street and municipal lot parking spaces for the following categories: • Municipal Parking Lot (FREE) 8 am to 3 am • Municipal Parking Lot (PERMIT REQUIRED) 5 am to 3 am • Commuter Parking Lot (FREE) 5 am to 3 am • Municipal Parking Lot (FREE) no time limit • 1 Hour On-Street Parking (FREE) • 2-Hour On-Street Parking (FREE) • Metered On-Street Parking • EV Charging Station Location Based on the Study, a new 2016 Downtown Parking Map was created and released to the public. Efficiency improvement through the pamphlet and map are reached by reducing confusion about lot location, metered vs. non-metered, identifying commuter lots, identifying landmark stores for clear reference for the pedestrian. The uploaded supplement document further details the improvements from this implementation.

  • Local Economies

    Support Local Businesses

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Denville Township Council passed Ordinance No. 13-16 creating the “Downtown Denville Business Improvement District” on November 22, 2016, d.b.a as “Downtown Denville.” Since passage, Downtown Denville has become the official Business Improvement District of our downtown. The district is a non-profit 501(c) funded by the downtown property owners with an elected Board of Directors. Denville’s Downtown area is the jewel of our township, hosting many civic events including parades to seasonal specific activities. Downtown Denville (DD) has collaborated with many local organizations, (Rotary, sports events/parades, fire department, veterans, etc.) to coordinate events throughout the year and to increase foot traffic to support local businesses. They created a website (www.downtowndenville.com) to communicate events to the public. The website adapted to the current COVID-19 pandemic to become a crucial source of public information regarding the new shopping regulations and organize financial support for local businesses impacted. Please see the attached supporting documents indicating “DD Activities Overview,” “Pre COVID19 Events,” and “Post COVID19 Support.” NOTE: Expected receipt of Qualitative Assessment August 1, 2020.

  • Natural Resources

    Natural Resource Inventory

    20 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: In 1976, the Denville Township Environmental Commission undertook the publication of the Town’s first Natural Resources Inventory (NRI). Things have changed since the 1970s. It is now 2014, and we now have just completed an Environmental Resources Inventory (ERI). It is predicated on the issues found in the 1976 NRI but it is enhanced and much more user friendly. The advent of Internet, computers, computer aided design (CAD), geographic information systems (GIS), and geographic positioning systems (GPS), a wealth of online and downloadable mapping data and information rich databases are now available. The Town’s new 2014 ERI and Geographic Information System database will serve as important resources for updating of the Denville Master Plan. They will also assist our Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and Environmental Commission in their reviews and approval processes. The entire ERI is available on the Township website. Only the first few pages of the document have been provided here. The Public Notice of the ERI's review by the Planning Board is also attached as is the Denville Planning Boards acceptance of the ERI as part of the Master Plan's Conservation Element. The entire ERI can be viewed online at the Denville Township Website, using the URL: http://www.denvillenj.org/departments/planning_and_zoning/docs/PlanningBoard/ERI/Denville_ERI_Update_Final_3_26_2014___r1.pdf For Further information contact: - Kathy Clark, Chair of the Denville Environmental Commission - Mark London, Chair of the Denville Green Sustainability Committee

    Tree Protection Ordinance

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township of Denville has adopted a Tree Removal Ordinance [Title Ord. No. 13/73, § 1] under Chapter 13 (https://www.ecode360.com/30656655?highlight=tree,trees&searchId=16123832455195251#30656655) Removal of Trees of the municipal general ordinances. It has been amended with the Ordinance No. 16-18 (https://www.ecode360.com/DE3650/laws/LF1033980.pdf) in connection with the Township’s affordable housing obligation. The purpose of the Tree Removal Ordinance is provided in the section PURPOSE [Ord. No. 13/73, § 2]. The definitions of the Tree Removal Ordinance are provided in the sections DEFINITIONS [Ord. No. 13/73, § 4] and 13-4 REMOVAL OF TREES [Ord. No. 13/73, § 5]. The standards, applicability, and submittal requirements of the Tree Removal Ordinance are provided in the sections APPLICATION [13-5] section 13-6 PROTECTION OF TREES [Ord. No. 13/73, § 10]. Fees and Penalties are addressed in sections 13-8 ENFORCEMENT OFFICER (appointment and responsibilities) and 13-10 REVOCATION OF PERMITS AND OR CORRECTIVE ACTION [Ord. No. 13/73, § 14] (delineates Township actions for non-compliance).

  • Public Information & Engagement

    Municipal Communications Strategy

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Response to the 07/06/2020 review comments: 1. Thank you for your suggestion. The Denville Green Team has forwarded an email to the Township Administrator citing your suggestion regarding Google Analytics as a potential method to gauge & evaluate effectiveness of website activity. (Screen shot uploaded below.) 2. Yes. When entering "denvillenj.org" from a mobile phone's browser, a pop-up will appear to give the user the option to download the web app for the town's site. A mobile phone screen shot has been uploaded as an example. Thank you for the SJPIETA2020 reminder. We have downloaded the presentation for reference and availability. As an addendum, our Green Team committee Council Liaison indicates that redesigning the Township web site for a better visitor experience and improved communications is under current review. Original June submission: Denville offers many methods for residents to communicate to and from municipal operations and functions. Community involvement and the spirit of volunteerism is strong in Denville, ensuring that these methods are available and active. Uploaded for this submittal is: - The Denville Communications Plan - The completed Municipal Communications Strategy Checklist form - A supplemental listing of communications channels to items in the Checklist.

    Digitizing Public Information

    10 Points

    Program Summary: In response to the review of 6/27/2020: -- The two suggestions by the reviewer have been forwarded to our Committee Councilman for consideration in the web site update/revision. -- The required DPI Checklist has been revised and uploaded. The three items cited by the reviewer have been amended from "Yes" to "No" as certain specific information is not provided. The official Denville Township web site is: http://www.denvillenj.org (screen shot example uploaded)

  • Sustainability & Climate Planning

    Community Asset Mapping

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Spearheading the research and inventory, the Denville Green Team worked to gather existing and new asset information. This effort required a variety of contributors as well as resources. Uploaded is the resulting Mapping Project Report which includes the list of contributors, examples of challenges and opportunities and our conclusion. Sustainability topics resulting from this work are highlighted. Also uploaded is the required inventory Asset List "Map" addendum which itemizes the entities within the township by category.

  • Waste Management

    Prescription Drug Safety & Disposal

    10 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: The Denville Police Department is currently operating a successful Drug Takeback Program working in cooperation with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. The program provides for the anonymous disposal of expired or unwanted prescription and over-the-counter medications at the municipal police station, a secure and permanent location. The Township’s permanent drop-off location is the receptacle labeled “MedRxeturn Drug Collection Unit” located in the lobby of the Denville Police Station at One St. Mary’s Place, Denville, NJ 07834; phone: (973) 627-4900. The facility is open to the public 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and is under 24/7 video surveillance. At this time, the Denville Police Department does not count or weigh the number of prescriptions collected or report on the number of individuals served. When drugs are deposited into the (locked) collection box, they fall into a collection bag. Officers from the Morris County Sheriff’s Office periodically collect these bags (it averages twice a month) and transport it to the vendor (Covanta) at their Newark, NJ site for eventual incineration. (In the event there is a maintenance outage in Newark, then it is brought to their Rahway, NJ site). Prior to transport, the bags are sealed using appropriate chain-of custody procedures. This Township/County partnership ensures that the collected drugs are disposed of in a manner that protects the public from the potential abuse and prevents the needless release of the drugs into the environment. Additionally, the Denville Police Station’s drug takeback receptacle promotes the efforts of St. Clare’s Hospital, 25 Pocono Road, Denville, NJ 07834; (973) 625-6000, who accepts unwanted medical syringes brought to them in a seal, hardened container for safe disposal. An informational sign is affixed to the police station’s drug takeback receptacle.

    Community Paper Shredding Day

    5 Points

    Program Summary: For 2019, Denville Township contracted with Gaeta Recycling, Paterson, NJ. for our on-site “Shred Day Event”, held on May 11, from 8:00am-12:00pm at the DPW yard located at 140 Morris Avenue in Denville for residents. Denville Department of Public Works staff assisted the residents with unloading their paper and aided the vendor in loading the paper into the machine. Residents were welcomed to watch the shredder in action! The Denville Green Sustainability Committee promoted and attended the full event, setting up a table to answer questions and even offer reusable earth-friendly shopping bags to all. Mayor Thomas Andes stopped by to observe as well. Event promotion included print media, township eSign board, posted flyers, township website as well as social media posts. The total recorded paper collected was a record at 2.91 tons in the four hours. Uploaded are photos, screenshots, flyer used, and resubmission comments.

    Household Hazardous Waste

    15 Points

    Program Summary: Denville Township collects Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) at their Recycling Center at the DPW yard located at 140 Morris Avenue, Denville, NJ 07834; phone 973-625-8334. The Recycling Center’s hours of operation are: Mon-Fri: 7:00am-2:30pm, Saturday: 8:00am-2:00pm, and Sunday: 10:00am-2:00pm. Four types of household hazardous waste (HHW) collected at the Recycling Center include: consumer household electronics, vehicle used motor oil, vehicle used oil filters and vehicle used batteries. Information and promotional materials uploaded here include: Denville's local online newspaper "Tap into Denville" article, The Denville Township Website, The Denville HUB Times publication from the mayor's office, The Denville Green Sustainability Committee's Facebook Page's informational "Did You Know?" post and the Committee's posts from the MCMUA notifying the public of "HHW Drop-off" events, The 2019 Denville Annual Recycling Tonnage Report, Supporting Documentation to the Annual Tonnage Report, and Photos & Signage of the collection receptacles at Denville’s Recycling Center. During 2019, Denville utilized the MCMUA for recycling. Their 12-page "Morris County's Recycling Guide" was shipped to Denville for public distribution. Denville made this available in the recycling literature racks at both the Municipal Building Tax Office and at its DPW office at the Denville Recycling Center. This publicity is also uploaded in this Action's submission.

    Non-Mandated Materials Recycling

    25 Points

    Program Summary: The Denville Recycling Center at the DPW Yard (140 Morris Avenue, Denville, NJ 07834; phone: 973-627-8334) collects various Non-Mandated Materials for Recycling. Items documented in this Action's submission are: Bulky Rigid Plastics, Plastics #5, and Textiles. Uploads in this this Action's submission include information and promotional materials: Denville Township Website, Denville Township Facebook, Denville Green Sustainability Committee Facebook, Tap into Denville, Tonnage Reports (L.E.A.D. Textiles), the 2019 Denville Annual Recycling Tonnage Report, email with Trex, and this Action Item's Submission Checklist. The Denville Tonnage Report (page 1, line #17 'Other Plastic') indicates Bulky Rigid Plastics tonnage was: 19.31 tons/end market: the MCMUA. Note: Denville Township's Press Release in an uploaded document (Plastic), inadvertently printed that several non-mandated plastic #s are collected/accepted by the town. It should have read as plastic #5 only.

    Recycling Depot

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Denville Recycling Center is located in the Denville Department of Public Works (DPW) yard at 140 Morris Avenue, Denville NJ 07834; phone: (973) 625-8334. Its hours of operation are: Monday-Friday: 7:00am-2:30pm; Saturday: 8:00am-2:00pm; and Sunday: 10:00am-2:00pm. The Denville Recycling Center converted from Single Stream Recycling to Dual Stream Recycling, effective 01/01/2020. The following is a list of items collected at the Denville Recycling Center: batteries (rechargeable & vehicle), bicycles, books, brush, bulky rigid plastics, cardboard (clean), clothing & shoes, commingled recyclables (aluminum, glass, plastics #1,2&5 and tin), consumer electronics, grass, leaves, metal (scrap), motor oil, motor oil filters, paper (mixed), paper (to be shredded), textiles, tires, and U.S. flags (cloth, worn, to be honorably retired). Personnel is on staff at the Recycling Center 7 days a week during all hours of its operation. Personnel is on staff at the DPW office 5 days a week. Included in this submission: Photos of the Recycling Center, Recycling Center Publicity, Denville Township Recycling Ordinance, The Denville Annual Recycling Tonnage Report as well as Supporting Documents.

    Backyard Composting Program

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Response to Reviewer Feedback of 7/12/2020 regarding participating residents: Currently, there are approximately 6400 housholds in the Township. As of this submittal we have not taken a formal survey. The Green Team estimates that 1% to 2% (60-120 households) perform backyard food scrap composting. This is based upon the challenges described in the uploaded Assessment. We estimate that households participating in Leaf/Yard Debris to be higher at 2% to 4% (120-240 households) This, due to somewhat different challenges and heavily treed neighborhoods. A factor limiting participation can be somewhat attributed to the proliferation of professional lawn/landscape businesses. The two compost categories overlap somewhat, of course. Initial submission: Spearheaded by the Township's Denville Green Sustainability Committee, backyard composting initiative essentially began with our "Sustainable Gardening and More" seminar, held April 24, 2019 for the general public. The first consultant speaker addressed today's farming/agriculture which included how composting is applied to keep costs down. The second speaker provided a case study example of a town's successful garden "farm" where composting was the only fertilization method employed. That was followed by a series of ongoing Green Team Facebook informational posts: Rutgers publication (an ideal brochure for beginners), a post illustrating actual composter examples from the backyard of a Green Team member, an example of the cone composter design, related food waste information. Additionally, a backyard composting promotional flyer was printed and posted at public locations. Township Direct Involvement: - Use of the Municipal Building "Community Room" for our Seminars. - Posting our flyers at the Municipal Building - Permission to use the town's electronic sign for promotion Uploaded documentation for this submittal include: 1. An evaluation by the Green Team committee which highlighted challenges and a plan of action. 2. Seminars promotional screenshots/photographic evidence/flyer 3. Screenshots of social media posts of the ongoing campaign

    Grass - Cut It and Leave It Program

    5 Points

    Program Summary: The Township's recycling ordinance pertaining to grass clippings ( Ord. chapter 23-3a.1.{k} ) allows the option for residents to cut and leave the clippings on their lawn. To further promote "Cut it and Leave it", for 2019, a completely new flyer has been produced which the town has made available at its DPW recycling center and municipal building. This flyer details the benefits and describes best practice methods for leaving grass clippings on the lawn. A copy has been uploaded with this resubmission. It is also posted on the Denville Green Sustainability Committee's Social media page and displayed at our Green Fair event. Challenges: While we have not taken a formal survey, we have two concerns. 1) Some landscapers continue to bag clippings. 2) Some residents still feel that thatch will result or do not like the appearance of clippings on the lawn. Action: The Green Team will continue to offer information before and during the grass cutting season, including at unrelated events.

    Materials Reuse Program

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Denville Township Recycling Center is located at the DPW yard, 140 Morris Avenue, Denville, NJ 07834; phone: 973-625-8334. The Center's hours of operation are: Mon-Fri: 7:00am-2:30pm, Saturday: 8:00am-2:00pm, and Sunday: 10:00am-2:00pm. The Center collects donated items for re-use; (2) types are BICYCLES and BOOKS. BICYCLES: Information & Publicity uploaded in this Action's submission: The 2019 Bicycle Tally Report (348 bikes from Denville’s Bike Corral), Bike Corral Photo & Signage at the Denville Recycling Center, Pedals for Progress (P4P) article and photo of bicycle pickup in Denville in June 2020, The Denville Green Sustainability Committee's Facebook post Recycling Reference Chart – “Did You Know?” of 05/27/2020, informing Denville residents of the items collected at the Denville Recycling Center and Denville Township's Webpage linking to 'Quick Links', 'Recycling' with information about recycling bikes for Pedals for Progress. BOOKS: Information & Publicity uploaded in this Action's submission: The Denville New Legacy Books Tonnage Report (12.37 tons), New Legacy Receptacle Photo & Signage at the Denville Recycling Center, the Denville Public Library's Friends of the Library 2019 Used Book Sale (Website & Facebook), Denville Township Website providing Town Council Meeting Minutes of 11/12/2019 – announcing Denville organizations who benefitted as a result of Denville's St. Clare's Hospital's Book Barn sales, Denville Township Website "Recycling Index" link to the MCMUA's site listing the Denville’s Book Barn, and the Denville Green Sustainability Committee's Recycling Reference Chart. In response to Sustainable Jersey’s initial feedback to us, the township has immediately expanded its promotion of books and bicycles. Consequently, a supplemental upload in this Action item provides pages from the MCMUA's 'Environmental Guide' distributed at Denville’s Town Hall and DPW Office informing residents of the bicycle and book programs.

    Reusable Bag Education Program

    5 Points

    Program Summary: The reduction of single-use plastic shopping bags has been a significant goal for the Denville Green Sustainability Committee for a number of years. Each year, hundreds of jute bags and reusable insulated bags are purchased by the Township. Committee members offer them to the public at events such as our Green Fair, public seminars, and "Shop Local" events throughout the year. Uploaded are photos of team members at events, screenshots of Facebook promotion and bag care. Photos of the "Bag It" movie shown at the Valleyview middle school and to the general public are uploaded. Additionally, to help reduce plastic shopping bags in our environment, the Green Team registered the town for the Trex Plastic Film Recycling Challenge. promoted the event, and worked with residents and students to collect 550 pounds of bags. The township was awarded the Trex bench upon successful completion (screenshot). Trex estimates this to be the equivalent of keeping over 40,000 bags out of our environment.