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Sustainable Jersey Certification Report

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

Cherry Hill Twp was certified on October 26, 2021 with 415 points. Listed below is information regarding Cherry Hill Twp’s Sustainable Jersey efforts and materials associated with the applicant’s certified actions.

Contact Information

The designated Sustainable Jersey contact for Cherry Hill Twp is:

Name:Ari Messinger
Title/Position:Operations Manager / Operations
Address:820 Mercer Street
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Phone:856-432-8760

Actions Implemented

Each approved action and supporting documentation for which Cherry Hill Twp was approved for in 2021 appears below. Note: Standards for the actions below may have changed and the documentation listed may no longer satisfy requirements for that action.

  • Arts & Creative Culture

    Establish a Creative Team

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Working with the base of the ordinance-established Cultural Arts Advisory Board, Cherry Hill Township has redesigned this volunteer board to include a more global approach to connecting arts and culture with all aspects of the community. The group has redeveloped existing activities to include a broader mission. When the Cultural Arts Advisory Board was established, their broad mission was to promote arts and cultural activities to the community of Cherry Hill and to also provide activities in which artists could participate. Since their creation, the Arts Board has held numerous lectures, exhibits, demonstrations, music and theatrical performances, film screenings, poetry readings and fashion shows. The Art Blooms has been held each year since 2010. This year held between May 3rd through June 4th 2021. Future goals include the addition of an art show featuring items created by natural elements, nature/photography hikes, outdoor art classes and information sessions. The board meets once per month in person and collaborates via email and phone throughout the year. During events, the board solicits community feedback for suggestions of additional activities and improvements to existing activities.

  • Community Partnership & Outreach

    Create Green Team

    10 Points
    Bronze Required Silver Required

    Program Summary: Recognizing the value of creating a more sustainable community, Cherry Hill Green Team was originally established as part of the Green Action Plan back in 2008 (Resolution 2008-3-2). The mission of the Green Team is to coordinate and plan sustainability activities across Township Departments, community groups, businesses and our schools. The Green Team also seeks to work with community organizations to educate residents and businesses about the benefits of sustainability and how to take action today to create a better community tomorrow. Due to the start of a new Mayor (1/1/2020), the Green Team is in the process of reworking its membership. This process had been delayed due to COVID-19, but should be finalized by this summer. Throughout this time, our Cherry Hill Advisory Environmental Board has remain active and has continued to advocate for the Township’s environmental needs. Throughout the year, Green Team Members participated and supported many sustainability projects including, but not limited to the following: Community Garden Butterflies Garden Human Relations Committee Small Business Promotions E-Waste Events Recycling and Waste Reduction Education and Promotions Renewable Energy Project Promotion

    Community Education & Outreach

    20 Points

    Program Summary: Cherry Hill Township played a very active role in engaging and educating the community on the need to participate in the 2020 Census. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Township was able to hold in-person events to help community members complete their online census form. Frequent Facebook posts, website news stories and blast email campaigns regularly notified people of the need and benefit to completing their online census forms. The Township also took steps to create a short video where one councilmember guided viewers through the process of completing the online census. Cherry Hill Township works together with the Cherry Hill Environmental Board to host many events including open space clean-ups and guided nature walks. These events begin with an informational/educational component related to the days’ activity. Partners: Throughout the course of the year, Cherry Hill Township partners with the following entities in the context of our educational programming and outreach- • Cherry Hill Township • Cherry Hill Public Library • Cherry Hill Schools • Camden County College • Cherry Hill Environmental Board Cost: In general, our educational and outreach efforts are free to the public. Our speakers tend to be members of the community and don’t charge a fee. By partnering with the above entities, we are typically able to eliminate costs to our organization for venue. We do our own marketing and public relations in addition to ads/website donations from the community. In addition, we have cultivated positive relationships with the local media with resulting coverage in local papers. Future Considerations: Our education/outreach calendar has been very full for the past two years. Maintaining a schedule such as this is extremely demanding on an all-volunteer organization. We generally take a break from our outreach efforts for the summer with a lighter schedule.

  • Emergency Management & Resiliency

    Emergency Communications Planning

    15 Points

    Program Summary: Cherry Hill Township has created the ability to reach residents on several platforms and in different formats. We have recognized that social media is an important way to reach a large number of our residents, quickly and in an effective way. We also know that not all residents have access to these sites or during an event may not be able to access the internet for several reasons, including power outages and damage to infrastructure. Cherry Hill has identified ways to reach the maximum number of residents prior to, during and after an emergency. Staff has been trained in the use of all systems and protocol for getting information into the hands of residents. The steps taken ensure that the residents and emergency workers will have the best information available in a timely manner.

  • Energy

    Buy Electricity From A Renewable Source

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Since 2015, Cherry Hill Township has been procuring its electricity and natural gas through the New Jersey Sustainable Energy Joint Meeting (NJSEM) consortium. NJSEM has aggregated electricity and natural gas purchasing for 185 of its member municipalities and authorities throughout the State of New Jersey. It its latest electric bid (2020), a 28% renewable portfolio was achieved for all of its members in PSE&G service territory. Based on our current contract and when compared to PES&G strike price, the Township will realize an estimated savings of $11,120.00.

    Municipal Onsite Solar System

    30 Points

    Program Summary: Since the installation in December 2010 of the 100 kWh system at the Public Works facility is subsidizing more than 60 percent of its energy consumption through the sun. The Township has been in the black from day one based on all the funding incentives received by State and Federal Agencies, allowing the Township to finance only a small portion of the total project cost. The reduction in the Township’s operating expense ultimately affects a lower cost to the taxpayers. In addition to all the financial benefits, the Township influences surrounding municipalities and residents to consider alternative sources of energy by educating them about energy alternatives. A kiosk located at the Municipal Building has become a learning center for sustainability. The display provides real-time information about the Township’s solar panels and all the sustainable attributes associated with utilizing renewable energy. This information is also being displayed at the Cherry Hill Public library.

    Fleet Inventory

    10 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Back in 2013 our Auto Division implemented a Fleet Management Software called Collective Fleet. The shop is totally paperless now, which in turn has made the shop more efficient than in the past. The Auto Division has seen efficiency gains in time management, parts tracking per vehicle and maintenance scheduling/vehicle history reporting. More specifically the new Collective Fleet software has improved the Auto Division by: • PM’s (preventive maintenance) tracking and scheduling. Most PM’s are mileage based, with a few units still on a date based maintenance schedule. The new fleet software interfaces with our fuel management software, then imports all mileages to the database. This enables the Auto division to keep an accurate accounting of what units are due for PM work. Which has led to us to doing more preventive maintenance than reactive (unscheduled breakdown repairs) maintenance. The amount of reactive maintenance repairs and road calls has declined substantially over the last 3-4 years. • PM scheduling process from 3-4 spreadsheets/programs, into all our data now is contained in one database, which is a huge timesaving for Auto Department management. • Identifying repair trends in certain vehicle types and has helped our tech’s look for mechanical failures before they happen. This has increased even more, with the larger sampling of data we compile for every vehicle. • Time spent looking for, then retrieving reports and vehicle repair history for specific vehicle information has been cut down dramatically. • Streamlined our work order process. Tracking of labor, parts and the total cost of repairs. In time, this will be invaluable when looking at the cost of ownership on vehicle types and makes. In 2016 the Township implemented a telematics solution for all the township owed fleet vehicles (excluding police dept.) New GPS tracking units installed. The new units accurately allow us to track vehicle idle times, vehicle speed and vehicle driver safety issues. • The Idle times of vehicles are monitored and drivers are made aware of higher than allowable idling, which in turn cuts down on fuel usage and unnecessary vehicle exhaust. • The gps system also sends email alerts if vehicles are driven over a given MPH threshold. Driving at posted speed limits considerably cuts down on fuel usage. • The system also has the capability of tracking aggressive driving, with hard braking alerts and unsafe cornering alerts. For accuracy purposes, the I took out any of the vehicles that were outliers as they had potentially bad data.

    Purchase Alternative Fuel Vehicles

    10 Points

    Program Summary: In 2019 Cherry Hill decided to conduct a Pilot program to replacing our patrol vehicles with the new Ford Hybrid Police Interceptors. Due their long idle times, this use should realize the largest fuel saving and therefore resulting in the largest environmental impact. Based on the numbers the township should see up to a 41% savings in fuel consumption. In 2019 procured 8 Hybrid Interceptors as part of the pilot. This represents half of the annual replacement vehicles purchased that year. Due to CODIV, Ford halted production which resulted in the delay of delivery. In February of 2021, the Township took delivery on the first 5 of new hybrids. With a successful pilot, the Township hopes to replace all the patrol cars with the Hybrids and potentially explore EVs in the near future.

  • Food

    Community Gardens

    20 Points

    Program Summary: Barclay Farmstead is a historic retreat in the heart of Cherry Hill. Built in 1816 by a Quaker farmer, Joseph Thorn, the farmhouse and surrounding 32-acre property offers visitors an opportunity to observe and participate in the agrarian lifestyle that once dominated the South Jersey landscape. Now listed on the National & New Jersey Registers of Historic Places, the Barclay Farmstead is owned and operated by Cherry Hill Township. In addition to tours of the farmhouse there are interpretive nature trails and the Plant-A-Patch garden plots. For more than 30 years, Cherry Hill Township has sponsored Plant-A-Patch, a community gardening program at the Barclay Farmstead. Each season (April - October), more than 100 gardeners maintain and harvest their own garden plots on original farm fields. In recent years, the gardeners have begun a "Harvest Share" program where they donate grown produce to the Cherry Hill Food Pantry. Gardening guidelines have become more stringent over the years in consideration of facilitating a more natural and sustainable community garden. This includes restrictions on chemical usage and waste collection for trash, recyclables and vegetative waste. The program also features an orientation lecture and the annual Harvest Dinner, held each August. The fee for a standard 25' x 25' patch is $30.00/year. The Township provides water hook-ups and free mulch. Gardeners are responsible for maintaining their individual plots.

  • Green Design

    Upgrade/Retrofit-Light Pollution

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township recently adopted new lighting standards that will apply to all Township buildings as well as all new development or redevelopment within the Township. The purpose of this Ordinance is to provide regulations for outdoor lighting that will: 1. Provide sufficient lighting shall be provided on each site and along roadways for safety, utility, security, productivity, enjoyment and commerce. 2. Be designed to avoid the creation of hazards to motorists and pedestrians or nuisance to adjoining property owners or residents. 3. Minimize adverse offsite impacts including light trespass, obtrusive light and curtail light pollution. 4. Conserve energy and resources to the greatest extent possible.

  • Health & Wellness

    Building Healthier Communities

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Cherry Hill has a wellness goal of Increase opportunities for all community members to be more active by providing recreation facilities, scheduled programs and online resources to achieve a more active lifestyle. Additionally, the Township seeks to provide access to information about healthier habits to improve overall mental and physical health. There were many activities and programs offered by the township in the past 2 years, but a few of the spotlights include Cherry Hill Trails Challenge / Trails Passport and our weekly Line Dancing. Cherry Hill Trails Challenge / Trails Passport - Community members were encouraged to visit all 12 trails in Cherry Hill to receive a prize. This was a Recreation Department initiative that began before the Covid-19 pandemic and proved very beneficial to area residents during the spring, summer and fall quarantine. The Trails challenge encouraged people to explore their own neighborhood open spaces but to also venture out into other Cherry Hill neighborhoods. The trails challenge was free to join. Senior Line Dancing - Community members are taught line dances and then given an opportunity to practice them weekly. This activity improves coordination and balance. This program is a great way to get people moving and provides a social outlet for participants. Participants numbers are currently limited to 25 due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. This program is facilitated by the Recreation Department. This is a free program to Cherry Hill Residents. Non-Residents are charged $10/season. This program has been going on for over 25 years.

    Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Public Places

    10 Points

    Program Summary: On November 8, 2012 Township Council passed Ordinance 2012-25 banning smoking on all owned lands. The law bans smoking at all Cherry Hill parks, playgrounds and recreational facilities, and on all Township trails and open spaces. It also apply to all Township-owned buildings, including Municipal Complex, the Department of Public Works, the Cherry Hill Public Library, Croft Farm and Barclay Farmstead. This is a significant policy change which carries real enforcement power for the Cherry Hill Police Department, and will promote health and wellness throughout the community.

  • Innovative Projects

    Innovative Community Project 3

    10 Points

    Program Summary: In 2019 Cherry Hill participated in a pilot program with Sustainable Jersey to conduct an EV Fleet Analysis through vehicle telematics. They utilized 6 months of telematics data which was then analyzed by Sawatch Labs, which specializes in analyzing fleets for opportunities for adoption of electric vehicles. As a result, Cherry Hill was provided a data-driven fleet electrification plans, which will help Cherry Hill put EVs into the best applications to optimize the economic and environmental savings while ensuring the needs of drivers are met. A sample of 18 vehicles were reviewed under the pilot and 11 of the 18 were recommended for EV replacement.

  • Land Use & Transportation

    Bicycle and/or Pedestrian Plan

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Bicycle and Pedestrian Local Technical Assistance Program and facilitated by the Cherry Hill Township Department of Community Development, the primary goal of the Cherry Hill Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan (adopted in March of 2013) is to improve bicycle and pedestrian facilities and provide greater access to local and regional destinations. In addition to identifying areas around the Township that would benefit from improved bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, the plan also aims to develop education initiatives in order to expand residents' knowledge about safe bicycle and pedestrian traveling practices. In order to achieve these goals, the Township formed a Steering Committee consisting of municipal officials, stakeholders, and Township residents in order to help guide the study and provide feedback and comments throughout the entire process. The Township also enlisted the NJDOT Office of Bicycle and Pedestrian Programs (NJDOT-OBPP) to help develop the Master Plan. NJDOT-OBPP contracted with Michael Baker Jr., Inc. (Baker) to assist in analyzing the existing bicycle and pedestrian conditions in the Township and make recommendations on where it is most feasible to locate new bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. The overall goals of this Master Plan are to be achieved through the implementation of a Complete Streets program.

    Green Building & Environmental Sustainability Element

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Formally adopted in 2010, The Cherry Hill Sustainability Plan identifies four initial areas in which the Township is continuing to implement sustainable improvements. Those areas are Land Use, Transportation, Energy, and Waste. This plan upholds environmental sustainability as a priority throughout the Township, as well as establishes leadership qualities for our community to implement and follow. These initiatives are being pursued by a strong partnership with Sustainable Cherry Hill (SHC), Cherry Hill Environmental Advisory Committee (CHEAC), and Township staff and officials. This partnership has been critical for developing initiatives, creating community awareness of environmental issues and educating the public. This Sustainability Plan will help provide analyses of existing conditions, identify deficiencies to be improved, determine actions and initiatives, identify resources for implementation, and address monitoring and evaluation techniques. With both the needs of the present and those of future generations in mind, the Sustainability Plan outlines the benefits of laying the foundation for a sustainable community, and fostering recommended land-use, transportation, energy, and waste management initiatives that will achieve this vision. Cherry Hill is continually committed to advancing its sustainability goals and will be addressing more of these issues in a forthcoming update to the 2010 Sustainability Plan.

    Transit-Oriented Development Supportive Zoning

    20 Points

    Program Summary: PATCO Transit-Oriented Development (PTOD) Overlay Zone: On May 23, 2016, the Township Council of the Township of Cherry Hill adopted the PATCO Transit-Oriented Development (PTOD) Overlay Zone into the Cherry Hill Township Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance 2013-18, as amended). By the adoption of the PTOD Overlay Zone for Block 583.01, Lot 2, Cherry Hill Township has created the opportunity for by right compact, mixed-use development directly adjacent to the Woodcrest PATCO Station (see attachments: “Tax Map – Sheet 221” and “Location Map – Proximity to Train Station"), where such developments were formerly not permitted in the underlying Institutional (IN) zoning district. The potential of this site to become a transit supportive development is highlighted by the potential for upwards of six hundred and thirty (630) new housing units (including a 20% set aside for affordable for sale units and a 15% set aside for affordable rental units) that would have direct access to Woodcrest PATCO Station. Furthermore, the Ordinance regulations established in the PTOD Overlay Zone promote an array of densely arranged non-residential uses with detailed design guidelines that will facilitate an integrated bicycle and pedestrian system along with human-scaled building design and building arrangements. With the establishment of the PTOD Overlay Zone, the existing site, which is currently a surface parking lot, now has the opportunity to become a more efficient land use. By maximizing the potential of the Woodcrest PATCO Station via an Ordinance that supports transit-oriented development, the subject site can become an asset to the community where benefits can be reaped by residents, businesses, and commuters alike.

  • Local Economies

    Support Local Businesses

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Doing Business with Cherry Hill Township: The Township maintains a purchasing department link from our home page. Information regarding making appointments with our Purchasing Department, Business Registration, Methods for Township procurements, and the bid approval process are available for all vendors. The page also provides links for available bid packages, professional services, recent bid awards and sponsorship guidelines for the community magazine. Business Promotion: The Township engages in number of activities to promote local businesses. Many local businesses are offered sponsorship opportunities in our community magazine and for community events. The Art Blooms Earth Day Festival provides a venue for our local ‘green’ businesses to outreach to the community as well as our Harvest Festival in the fall. Until recently the Mayor held monthly breakfast meetings with our local business community. These have been replaced with our Business Spotlight Lunch. The business spotlight lunch recognizes local business in the categories of Business Expansion, New Business, Environmental Quality and Community Service. These lunches are held in local restaurants giving the Township an opportunity to spotlight these restaurants as well. Business Development Activities: The Township has a designated Community Business Liaison to assist new and existing businesses with any and all questions about doing business in the Township. The township is also designing a new online business portal. This business portal provides a myriad of information for local businesses including information on starting a new business, site selection, municipal codes, construction codes, resources for the state and county, and additional information from the fire and police department regarding businesses.

  • Natural Resources

    Environmental Commission

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Cherry Hill Environmental Board (CHEB) is dedicated to protecting and improving the natural environment for all Cherry Hill residents. New members and volunteers who want to actively assist CHEB with its natural resource improvement mission are always welcome. Responsibilities Improve, preserve and encourage the use and appreciation of the natural environment in Cherry Hill Township. Provide advice on environmental matters to the Mayor and Council. Proactively promote environmental enhancement activities. Serve as an environmental resource to the residents of the township. Conduct activities and programs to enhance the quality of the natural environment of Cherry Hill.

    Open Space Plans

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Cherry Hill Open Space & Recreation Plan (OSRP) articulates the Township’s vision of open space and recreation. The plan establishes a philosophical and practical justification for the protection and preservation of open space and recreational opportunities. The purpose of this plan is to provide a framework for implementation by identifying and examining open space and recreation resources important to the community and layout ways to protect and enjoy them. Without such planning, the appearance of a community, the quality of life enjoyed by residents, and the community’s natural resources can all be dramatically altered in a short period of time due to random changes in land use. Open space and recreation should be considered as part of the public infrastructure, just like roads, schools and utilities. No community would build a road without establishing the need for it and planning where it should go. The same is true for open space and recreation. Attached please find Cherry Hill's Plan and Resolution adopting the plan.

    Environmental Assessment Ordinance

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), as outlined in Section 818 of the Cherry Hill Township Zoning Ordinance, and the Environmental Assessment, as outlined in Section 819 of the Cherry Hill Township Zoning Ordinance, prescribe to applicants of land development projects the potential need to prepare an EIS as part of their project submission. Since certain types of developments may pose a variety of environmental problems, an EIS is required of certain developments in order to address how these problems will be mitigated. For example, all preliminary major subdivisions and preliminary major site plans are required to submit an EIS. While other types of applications are exempt from providing an EIS, the Planning or Zoning Board of Adjustment has the authority to request an EIS if deemed necessary. The assessment itself must provide specific information related to the type of project, demographics, the project’s relation to the Master Plan, a description and environmental inventory of the site in question, a description of surrounding land uses, mitigation techniques, the positive and negative impacts of such a development, alternative plans, the types of licensing and permits needed, and all related environmental reports. The Board, once having all of the appropriate EIS information, shall only approve the submission if there will be no harmful effects to the environment, that regional resources will be protected, and that said resources will not be strained in a manner detrimental to the proposed project and future projects. In addition to the EIS is the Environmental Assessment. The Environmental Assessment’s purpose is to preliminarily identify the presence of any contaminants on-site, and if a presence is found then an investigation pursuant to current NJDEP requirements must take place. A New Jersey Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) will review these assessments and help guide the remediation process if steps need to be taken to a Phase I Environmental Assessment. In summation, these two ordinances help protect and prioritize Cherry Hill’s valuable environmental resources.

    Tree Protection Ordinance

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Initially introduced on April 11, 2011, Article V-A of the Cherry Hill Township's Land Development Ordinance was adopted by Council and signed by the Mayor on April 25, 2011 and went into effect on May 15, 2011. Section 508-A deals specifically with Landscaping and Buffering and encompasses a tree preservation ordinance as well as clear requirements for the replacement of trees lost to development.

  • Operations & Maintenance

    Adopt a Green Purchasing Policy by Resolution *Retires 12/31/23*

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Cherry Hill has a long standing commitment to been a more sustainable community. As part of this effort, Cherry Hill passed a Greed Purchasing Policy. The policy objectives are to: Conserve natural resources, Minimize environmental impacts such as pollution and use of water and energy, Eliminate or reduce toxins that create hazards to workers and our community, Support strong recycling markets, Reduce materials that are routinely land filled or disposed of, Increase the use and availability of environmentally preferable products that protect the environment. By including environmental considerations in purchasing decisions, Cherry Hill promotes practices that improve public and worker health, conserve natural resources, and reward environmentally conscious manufacturers, while remaining fiscally responsible. Currently, all our daily cleaning supplies have been switched to the Buckeye ECO Proportioning product line with the majority of the products being Green Seal certified. All of our office renovations are now utilizing these new environmental standard. These rages from all Green Seal or GREENGUARD certified furniture and building materials to zero VOC paints.

  • Public Information & Engagement

    Municipal Communications Strategy

    10 Points

    Program Summary: In recent years, the Township website and social media have become the primary method of communication and interaction between Township personnel and elected officials and our constituents. Technology has helped to reduce phone calls and foot traffic to Town Hall, increasing efficiency for both Township staff and visitors and improving responsiveness/response time. We use a variety of communications channels to distribute news and information including, but not limited to, our municipal website, blast e-mail lists, social media (Facebook, Nextdoor, Twitter and Instagram), the Nixle emergency notification system, and outreach to local print and broadcast media and civic organizations. Our website is now mobile-responsive, and the Cherry Hill Information Portal has been incorporated as a one-stop portal that makes all public information easily accessible, and putting not just information, but also local services, at users’ fingertips 24/7. The result of these efforts has been increased communication with residents, who have become familiar with these outlets and now rely on forums such as our website and social media for regular updates. They know where – and how – to easily access any information they need. The result has been greater resident satisfaction; those who reach out to us know they will be answered in a timely fashion. We are better able to communicate real-time information that impacts our citizens’ daily lives, i.e. building closures, accident alerts/road work notifications, public meeting dates, information on infrastructure improvements, and more. Additionally, we have seen an increase in registration for Township events, programs and classes, as well as an increase in local economic development efforts, thanks in part to improved technology and greater access to information that makes it easier for local businesses to operate, obtain licenses and permits, apply for zoning approvals and more.

    Improve Public Engagement in Municipal Government

    15 Points

    Program Summary: Making information available at the resident's fingertips is a main initiative of the administration. Having information in the public hands allows them to be more engaged in governmental policies and decisions. The Township has an award winning website which offers residents a portal to key information. Residence can use the website to find meeting dates, agendas, minutes, ordinances and relevant materials. In addition to the site, the township has a strong social medial presence. Meeting agendas are posted on Facebook and Twitter. Through our social media outlets, a dialog is created between residents and governmental officials as comments and discussions are created. Most recently, we have offer all our public meeting (Council, Zoning, Planning and various board meetings) virtually which has increased our accessibility and reach. Residents are able to participate in the meetings as in they were in person regardless of their location.

    Online Municipal Public Service Systems

    15 Points

    Program Summary: Building off the success of our CHIP (Cherry Hill Information Portal), we revamped our Homepage to be transactional based instead of informative bases. In today’s times, people come to our site to conduct business vs collecting information for a research paper. We utilized our current website analytics to determine what features should be present on the homepage. We review the analytics and make any necessary updates to the buttons and/or quick links on a monthly basis. The township utilizes a GIS based software solution called Spatial Data Logic (SDL) to breakdown departmental silos and offer real time data to employees and customers. Currently, SDL has integrated 24 independent data sources into one platform where users can access all pertinent information. SDL allows users to see, explore and analyze data by location—revealing hidden patterns, relationships and trends not readily apparent in standard spreadsheets or statistical data. SDL also allow us to go mobile with our data. Residents can access and communicate information from the web or mobile device. Township inspectors will also utilize the system in the field on mobile devices. The flow of real time information increases efficiency while at the same time insuring accuracy. Utilizing SDL, departments are able to offer full online submissions for permits, application, inspections requests and much more. Not only are our customers able to submit their information, they can check the status and even make payment, all from the comfort of their home. We have imbedded many of these requests directly into the corresponding departmental website pages.

    Digitizing Public Information

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Making information available at the resident's fingertips is a main initiative of the administration. The township has an award winning website which offers residents a portal to key information. Recently revamped our Homepage is transactional based instead of informative based. In today’s times, people come to our site to conduct business vs collecting information for a research paper. We utilized our current website analytics to determine what features should be present on the homepage. In addition to our website, the township utilizes a GIS based software solution called Spatial Data Logic (SDL) to breakdown departmental silos and offer real time data to employees and customers. SDL also allow us to go mobile with our data. Residents can access and communicate information from the web or mobile device. Township inspectors will also utilize the system in the field on mobile devices. The flow of real time information increases efficiency while at the same time insuring accuracy. Utilizing SDL, departments are able to offer full online submissions for permits, application, inspections requests and much more. Not only are our customers able to submit their information, they can check the status and even make payment, all from the comfort of their home. We have imbedded many of these requests directly into the corresponding departmental website pages.

  • Sustainability & Climate Planning

    Community Asset Mapping

    10 Points

    Program Summary: In 2016 the township invested heavily in GIS/Mapping including the addition a full-time GIS Analyst. Utilizing our new GIS resources, Cherry Hill serviced increase the quality, transparency and sustainability, all while keeping a premium on accountability. The GIS Analysts is able to provide information to resident by relating information on maps. Recently he has published interactive maps which share assets in relation to you locations. There is a GIS section on our website where all of these tools can be found. http://www.cherryhill-nj.com/1027/GIS-Mapping Benefits of Using GIS and SDL • Better Geographic Information Record Keeping • Visually Illustrate Trends • Improved Communication • Manage Assets more effectively • Share Mapping Data • Integrate 24 independent data sources One of the largest challenges faced during this endeavor was standardizing all the information across departments. Something as simple as a park name or address creates a large discussion. As we move forward, we would like to include a more interactive experience where residents can tag asset information and/or pictures and possibly take a virtual tour. Our GIS outreach includes a large presence on our website, news flashes and signage throughout Town Hall. Residents are using our GIS solutions to obtain property information, report complaints, initiate service requests and view neighborhood trends and information.

    Vision Statement & Goals *Retires 12/31/23*

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Township’s “Roadmap to Our Future” document is the product of the Green Team’s 2+ year endeavor to develop a sustainable path for the community to follow. The plan upholds environmental sustainability as a priority for the Township and establishes leadership qualities for our community to implement and follow. All of the initiatives will be pursued through a strong partnership between the Mayor and Township Council with Sustainable Cherry Hill (SCH), the Cherry Hill Environmental Board (CHEB), and all Township departments, staff and boards, as well as local business, home and property owners. The roadmap will act as a blueprint for building a sustainable future and maintaining the vitality of the Cherry Hill community for future generations. The roadmap is a living breathing document, but it sets a solid foundation. As we move into future years there will be opportunities to adjust and/or correct our path. The Roadmap outlies objectives and strategies in 5 key categories: • Health and Wellness • Homes, Buildings and Transportation • Leadership, Education and Training • Community Vitality and Ecology • Empowerment through Arts and Culture

    Indicators & Targets *Retires 12/31/23*

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Township’s “Roadmap to Our Future” document is the product of the Green Team’s 2+ year endeavor to develop a sustainable path for the community to follow. The plan upholds environmental sustainability as a priority for the Township and establishes leadership qualities for our community to implement and follow. All of the initiatives will be pursued through a strong partnership between the Mayor and Township Council with Sustainable Cherry Hill (SCH), the Cherry Hill Environmental Board (CHEB), and all Township departments, staff and boards, as well as local business, home and property owners. The roadmap will act as a blueprint for building a sustainable future and maintaining the vitality of the Cherry Hill community for future generations. The roadmap is a living breathing document, but it sets a solid foundation. As we move into future years there will be opportunities to adjust and/or correct our path. The Roadmap outlies objectives and strategies in 5 key categories: • Health and Wellness • Homes, Buildings and Transportation • Leadership, Education and Training • Community Vitality and Ecology • Empowerment through Arts and Culture Each strategy has a 1 and 2 year goal associated with it. In addition to the goals, there are recommended metrics.

  • Waste Management

    Prescription Drug Safety & Disposal

    10 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Cherry Hill Township in conjunction with the Attorney General, joined into a partnership to expand “Project Medicine Drop,” a statewide initiative that helps everyday citizens get involved and join the fight against the abuse of addictive, deadly prescription drugs. As a result of the partnership, the Township installed a new Project Medicine Drop box inside of Town Hall just outside of the Police window. Cherry Hill Residents are invited to come in and use the boxes 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, to dispose of their unused and expired prescription medications without any questions asked. In addition to our box permanently located at Town Hall, the police department takes the program on the road, accepting prescriptions at dedicated township events. In 2019 program collected 551 lbs. of pills, 2020 302 lbs. and so far in 2021 207.2 lbs. As a result of the partnership, Cherry Hill will realize significant benefits. First, the Township is providing a secure and environmentally sound method of prescription drug disposal, and one that will help protect our water supply. Second, the program is helping Cherry Hill residents get excess medications out of their homes. Third, and perhaps most important, the program is encouraging people to think differently about their prescription medications, encouraging and emphasizing safe use of such medications.

    Recycling & Waste Reduction Education & Compliance

    20 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Cherry Hill Township is committed to educating its residents on the benefits of recycling. From pre-school classes to senior organizations, there are dedicated people who instruct on how to properly recycle. Residents are able to call the Department of Public Works or to use the Township website to find answers to their recycling questions. The Township also utilizes social media to spread the message. Information on recycling is available at both municipal buildings, Townhall and DPW, for people who visit the buildings. The information is also emailed or sent via regular mail to residents who request it. The information is distributed at special events such as Senior Fest and National Night Out. In an effort to increase clean recycling in multi family units, the certified recycling coordinator visits with the manager to review operations. The Camden County Board of Freeholders provided magnets showing which materials are acceptable. The magnet is in both English and Spanish. Labels were also placed on the residential recycle bins to show the dos and don'ts of what may be placed in the containers. A label was dedicated solely to the prevention of placing plastic bags in the containers. http://www.cherryhill-nj.com/178/Recycling

    Community Paper Shredding Day

    5 Points

    Program Summary: On November 3, 2019, Cherry Hill Township hosted a Paper shredding event at the Department of Public Works. Notice of the event was posted on social media and the Mayor's Weekly Briefing. In addition to paper shredding, residents were able to drop off electronics, and cardboard. Student from both high schools in town volunteered to work the event. Shred One/Stericycle Corporation collected paper for on-site destruction and recycling . Cherry Hill residents can recycle old electronics at no cost, six days a week at the Department of Public Works Complex~ 1 Perina Blvd. Simply pull up to the work yard and deposit electronics in the designated location. Motor oil, CFL bulbs/tubes, rechargeable batteries, tires and car batteries are also accepted at the facility on a year round basis. Approximately 300 cars passed through the DPW parking lot to drop off bags/boxes of documents that needed to be shredded on November 19, 2019. Unfortunately, an event was not hosted in 2020 due to Covid. Revision: Approximately 11 tons of paper recycled.

    Household Hazardous Waste

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Cherry Hill Township collects CFL bulbs, motor oil, tires and rechargeable batteries at our Recycling Depot 6 days a week. This service provided by the Township has decreased the amount of hazardous waste that has ended up in the landfill. In addition, Camden County sponsors six Household Hazardous Waste Collections a year for county residents. Cherry Hill Township hosted the first event of the year on March 20, 2021 at the Department of Public Works at 1 Perina Blvd. Residents were able to drop off materials that are not normally accepted at DPW due to their toxic nature. Hazardous items that are illegally dumped at DPW are transported to the other locations on the day prior to the scheduled event. Over 900 cars from Camden County came to the event. The number of cars more than doubled due to the fact that events were not held in 2020 because of the Covid pandemic.

    Non-Mandated Materials Recycling

    15 Points

    Program Summary: Due to effects of China Sword and an increase in the contamination levels of the recyclables being collected, the Township and Camden County took a "back to basics" approach. Plastics above #1 an #2 were not prohibited, but a cleaner product was encouraged. Plastic bags are encouraged to be dropped off at the Town's Recycle Depot or taken to the local supermarkets that accept them. Plastic bags received at the Township are taken to local Food Pantry (910 Beechwood Ave) where they are repurposed. Every holiday the Township also reminds residents that Christmas Trees may be recycled curbside or at DPW. REVISION: The plastic bags that are taken to the Food Pantry are used by the volunteers to bag the items chosen by the customers. There is no official statement from the municipality noting that the plastic bags go to the pantry. We are working on informing the general public, but the pantry is concerned that unusable plastic wrap and dirty bags may be included if dropped off directly to them. Christmas tree post from December 2020 was uploaded. There trees that are collected curbside are mixed in with other vegetative waste and taken to Britton Industries in Marlton, NJ. The trees that are dropped off at DPW are "chipped" with brush and branches at the municipal ecology site. Totals are unavailable. Update: Christmas Trees - The tree drop has been in effect since I started in 2005, so 16 years. I would say we get about 20 trees dropped off, it’s not a lot because the trees also get collected curbside on yard waste collection day weekly. Plastics Bags - Our e-waste vendor, Thanks for Being Green, use to take our plastic bags, but in 2019 they stopped. With the need still there, we partnered up with the local foodbank. The Foodbank actually reached out to us at one of our events. Unfortunately we do not weight the bags, but we do supply them with large collection bags full.

    Recycling Depot

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township has a Recycling Depot located at our Public Works facility (1 Perina Blvd) where residents can drop off a variety of materials 6 days a week year round. The Recycling Depot is manned Monday – Friday from 7:30AM to 3:00PM, Saturday from 7:00AM to 11:00AM and is monitored by surveillance video 24 hours per day. Materials collected at the Township Recycling Depot include: Automotive Items (motor oil, car batteries, car tires), CFL Bulbs, Fluorescent Lamps, Rechargeable Batteries, Plastic Bags, and E-waste. Free paper biodegradable paper lawn bags are available to the township residents free of charge.

    Grass - Cut It and Leave It Program

    5 Points

    Program Summary: When sending recycling and solid waste information to Cherry Hill residents, included in the mailing is a document that informs the public about the benefits of cutting and leaving grass clippings. Some of the benefits that are mentioned are those of saving money by not purchasing yard waste bags, educating on water usage and conservation. Since grass is a natural recycler, the grass cuttings may also be used as garden mulch. Educating people on the benefits of natural recycling will hopefully eliminate the usage of harmful chemicals being released into the environment. These educational documents are available to residents who come into the Department of Public Works facility. The documents are also handed out at events such as National Night Out and mailed to residents who request them. The initiative started a few years back, but every spring is gets revived. Information is also posted on social media. REVISION: Links to Cut it and Leave it on website from 2017-2020 https://www.chnj.gov/Search?searchPhrase=Grass%20Cut%20It%20and%20Leave%20It