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Sustainable Jersey Certification Report

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

Medford Twp was certified on January 24, 2023 with 355 points. Listed below is information regarding Medford Twp’s Sustainable Jersey efforts and materials associated with the applicant’s certified actions.

Contact Information

The designated Sustainable Jersey contact for Medford Twp is:

Name:Deborah Evans
Title/Position:Member / Medford Township Environmental Affairs Advisory Committee
Address:21 Heron Court
Medford, NJ 08055
Phone:414-870-3735

Actions Implemented

Each approved action and supporting documentation for which Medford Twp was approved for in 2023 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

    Enhanced Licensing Compliance

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Each year the Township of Medford encourages all pet owners to have their dogs and cats vaccinated for rabies. They offer a free clinic and administer free rabies vaccinations to all residents who come in. They make licenses available on that day to encourage all dog owners to have their dogs licensed and make every attempt to both communicate to the residents that this free vaccination clinic is available as well as making it more convenient for residents to obtain licenses for their dogs. A sample of an individual dog license is attached. One year of license data is attached for the years 2021 and 2022. Please note that the data for 2022 (1,010) is thru July 27, 2022 vs the data for 2021 (1,063) is for the full calendar year. The results show a dramatic increase in number of registrations assuming an increase in registrations for the second half of calendar year 2022. Medford does not perform an official census but we have a growing data base of information that validates the number of households that are notified of the pet registration process. All tax paying households ( 9,985) are emailed a copy of the newsletter which informs homeowners of the licensing law and process. The township has 16,092 email subscribers who also receive the newsletter. Facebook Medford site has 5,084 followers on which the newsletter is also posted. There is a statistical basis for comparison of the level of participation in the licensing program to validate that currently Medford is at approximately 10.6% of households have registered a pet in 2022. Communication and advertising is a key part of making this service available to residents. A link to the Medford Messenger announcing licensing reminders as well as free rabies clinics is https://www.medfordtownship.com/news/?FeedID=766. A screen print of the page is also attached. There is also a link for residents to register their pets on line. Holistically, police are called for mistreatment of zoning regulations and check at that time to ensure pets are licensed. Medford also due to new legislation has a new hired animal control officer. Local real estate is required by state requirements to communicate required licensing compliance.

  • Brownfields

    Brownfields Inventory & Prioritization

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Brownfield list was developed using NJ Dataminer (https://www13.state.nj.us/DataMiner) & NJBrownsfieldsProperties.com. The sites were verified by Marc H. Selover, PG, LSRP of Environmental Resolutions. People who worked on the project include: Marc Selover, Beth Portocalis, Robert Petrillo, Pola Galie and Deborah Evans. The verification process used to add, retain or eliminate sites from Medford's inventory is completed by Marc Selover, LSRP and Rohan Todas, LSRP of Environmental Resolutions, Inc. (ERI). ERI is the appointed Township Engineer. Input from Members of the Medford Environmental Advisory Affairs Committee (EAAC) review the data and make recommendations for review and consideration for professional scrutiny. The EAAC accepts suggestions from the public to be researched and evaluated. The previous Dataminer search showed three (3) listed brownfields sites but Marc Selover, LSRP reached out to the Office of Planning Advocacy to have the Sunoco site removed due to the remediation being completed at the site. The policy for updating the Brownfields Inventory is completed by Environmental Resolutions, Inc., ERI nominates any sites that meet the Brownfields definition so that the inventory is up to date. The most recent inventory included 91 sites, which after review on google maps and in some cases, visual inspection revealed 32 residential sites that could be eliminated from consideration. Further review of the established criteria and rating reduced the list considerably. See spreadsheet with coding attached. At this time and because several sites have already been addressed, there are no sites in Medford Township that meet the criteria to be listed on the potential brownfield inventory list. The EAAC and township will continue to remain vigilant in this regard with review for consideration for additional properties that can be evaluated on an ongoing basis by the EAAC.

  • Community Partnership & Outreach

    Create Green Team

    10 Points
    Bronze Required Silver Required

    Program Summary: On September 3, 2019, the Township Council voted unanimously to accept resolution 176-2019 establishing a Green Team Advisory Committee. See link http://medfordnj.swagit.com/play/09032019-1408/#11 A copy of the resolution is attached. The Green Team Advisory Committee will consist of up to 11 members to be appointed by the Township Council annually. The 9 members of the EAAC will serve along with two additional members specifically appointed to the Green Team. The complete list of EAAC Members and members of the Green Team is attached as detailed on a copy of the EAAC meeting minutes. It should be noted that at the September 3rd, 2019 meeting of the Town Council, Resolution 175-2019 was passed naming two new members to fill open positions on the EAAC. The Town Council a resolution in support of the Green Team at their August 9tth, 2022 meeting. The minutes were not yet published at the time of submission. Since The Green team has been appointed, the Green team has successfully executed the collection of non traditionally recycled single use plastic for the TREX to Bench challenge. One bench has already been delivered and another is in process. Plastic collection remains on-going. See photos attached. The Green Team has participated in the Medford Main Street Farm Market. Information has been distributed at the Market. The Green Team facilitated the Arbor Day Tree Give away April 30th, 2022. See photos attached. The Green Team also writes articles for the Medford Messenger. A copy of the EAAC / GREEN TEAM Goals and Objectives along with a copy of the 2021/2022 Annual Report is attached.

    Community Education & Outreach

    10 Points

    Program Summary: 1. Medford Twp. & Woman's Club of Medford 7th annual Town-wide Yard Sale & Earth Day Event took place Saturday, April 27th at Freedom Park. In addition to the yard sale and plastic bag recycling, the Green Team distributed 500 free tree saplings with planting instructions that were provided by the NJ Department of Environmental Protection under their Tree Recovery Program. Checklist attached along with pdf photos from the event. 2. The Green Team supported tree planting for Arbor Day at the Allen Elementary School on April 28th, 2022. Checklist and Photos Attached. Regular communication to the public through the Medford Messenger on current events is on-going. A copy of the April Messenger is attached as an example.

  • Emergency Management & Resiliency

    Climate Adaptation: Flooding Risk

    20 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: Medford has adopted a comprehensive flood management plan. Medford Township's Emergency Management Team and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) continue to work on all aspects of climate change as well as impending flood risk. With the adoption of Medford's Green Team, and team approach the GTR was completed. The Collaborators on the GTR include Katherine Burger-Township Manager, Beth Portocalis-Planning and Zoning Manager, Rich Falasco-Construction Official, Robert Dovi-Emergency Management Coordinator. Maps from NJ Flood mapper and additional flood hazard maps are included in the attached documents. The Township is currently in talks with the state's Blue Acres Program in hopes of purchasing land affected by flooding within the township borders.

    Extreme Temperature Event Plan

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Medford Township Emergency Management follows the Burlington County lead for severe heat and cold emergencies. When needed and appropriate the township will open warming or cooling stations. Currently, there is a tent system and support trailer available. When these stations are open, residents are alerted via the Nixle system, township facebook pages and the township website. All aspects of the Master Plan and its Re-examination Plan can be found at this link: https://www.medfordtownship.com/planningboard. Policies and procedures are reviewed, reviewed and re-approved from time to time. A narrative from Rober Dovi, Jr. is attached.

    Community Wildfire Protection Plans

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The NJ Forest Fire Service and Medford Township (CWPP team) completed a comprehensive review of the Township’s wildfire fighting capabilities, fire risk, fuel hazard classifications and past fire occurrences. Evaluating these factors and others that contribute to wildfire risk in a spatial format allowed the team to develop a cooperative plan targeting specific issues requiring action. The CWPP is designed to be a working document available for modification when warranted and the efforts and priorities that are identified can be changed, rearranged added to or dropped depending on current needs. The wildfire plan has been discussed informally by Rob Dovi and Thomas Gerber since its inception and no changes were deemed necessary. Motivated by the Green Team's support, a formal review meeting be documented. All members of the emergency management team are aware of the wildfire plan (attached) and continue to communicate and know that anyone on the team can suggest review/revision. The next meeting is scheduled in the 2nd week of September 2019.

    Firewise Community

    5 Points

    Program Summary: The Township of Medford is invested in the Firewire Program and works by providing an effort to educate residents about how to protect their families and homes from the risk and potential harm from wildfires. Since Medford is located in a mixed environment and many residential areas are heavily wooded. This is an important part of education and communication. The Environmental Advisory Affairs Committee will be conducting an informational presentation at an upcoming meeting to continue to share the information and make it available to residents and members of the general public. Attached is documentation form Firewire Community indicating that Medford is in good standing.

    Ready Set GO! Fire Company

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The fact that so much of Medford Township is wooded and many residents live in wooded areas that may not have access to large amounts of water or hydrants. Having this education available and free of charge is very important. The Fire Stations that are part of the Ready, Set, Go! Community are always providing education and opportunities for residents, businesses and visitors to learn more about how they can have an impact in keeping their buildings and properties safer from wildfire and fires in general. Attached is an IAFC approved spreadsheet for recording Medford Fire Division hours spent on education and outreach. The companies involved included the Union Fire Company and the Taunton Fire Company.

    Emergency Communications Planning

    15 Points

    Program Summary: Within the Department of Public Safety there is a Division of Civil Defense, known as the "Office of Emergency Management," The Office of Emergency Management and the Director of Emergency Management shall perform all of the functions, powers and duties prescribed by general law, executive order, ordinance or resolution. Within the Office of Emergency Management, there shall be a volunteer Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) consisting of citizens who have completed basic CERT training as recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to be appointed by the Director of Public Safety. The objective of the Team is to train community members to be able to support emergency services personnel during disasters, emergency events, and special community events. Please find attached 1. Copy of Emergency Planning Document in Spanish 2. Copy of Door Hanger Notification left on homes at risk 3. Sustainable NJ Emergency Communication Checklist. 4. Newspaper article verification of Nixle. Our ECP include procedures about ALL of the communication methods used during an emergency. Our Public Information Coordinator has available, public and private radio, television and newsprint agencies, Nixle, and social media for the release of emergency public information. only verbal agreements exist (See EPIA-1). Training is handled in house for Nixle, and Facebook. Most if not all personnel have attended Public Information Officer training thought various academies including the Emergency Management Institute. We exercise our Nixle daily with routine notifications about community events. These are res-hared on various forums indicating that the messages are received. We also have automatic severe weather notifications set up via Nixle to alert residents of severe weather. These are also shared on various forums by our residents indicating they are receiving the messaging.

    Vulnerable Populations Identification for Emergencies

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Currently, Emergency Management Services in Medford utilizes the Registration Ready provided by the NJOEMS. They also work with the Medford Township Police Department's Chaplain's Service and have a dedicated DC and detective attached to the program to review and work with this most vulnerable population. The Medford Township Police Department tries to identify residents who most need these programs at every public event that occurs in Medford Township. Any resident, neighbor or family can make them aware of a person in need of services. There is a link to the registration ready link on the Medford Township School website which is actively used by teachers, administration and residents as appropriate. https://www.medford.k12.nj.us/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1754390&type=d&pREC_ID=1938196 A jpeg of an informative brochure that is distributed at public events is attached. The Fire and EMS keep a list of group homes that have oxygen on premise updated. While the motivation is fire safety, it is also an indicator of vulnerable residents.

  • Food

    Farmland Preservation Plans

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Medford Township has a unique combination of land use history and activity, split geographically along Route 70. To the North of Route 70, the community is rich in farmlands with a strong heritage of families growing blueberries, cranberries, and other farm crops. On the other side of Route 70, we share the rich experiences of the Pinelands. This unique personality has been paramount to the foundation of the rich community, which is Medford Township. The Medford Township Planning Board closely monitors any use of farmland and infringement on protected land, effectively managing farmland preservation. The Open Space Medford Township plan Approved March 17,2022 Final is available on the link below and is also posted as a PDF below. https://www.medfordtownship.com/filestorage/257/881/March_17%2C_2022_OSRCP_FINAL_w_Council_Res.pdf. On page 11, the chart indicates that 44.74% of total land is designated for Open Space. Of that 8.83% or 2,249 acres are already approved and designated to Medford and Burlington County Farmland Preservation. (see Table 9). Table 11 details 326.55 acres of current farmland targeted for acquisition. Table 10 details targeted properties for acquisition or 895.53 acres / 3.52% planned for Open Space acquisition. A summary of open space and farmland purchases made/participated in by the State of New Jersey Green Acres Program, Burlington County and/or Medford Township. A map of Medford township open space and preserved farmland is attached. The Open Space Master Plan is required to be submitted to the State NJDEP Green Acres Program. See attached. A signed letter ( dated 10/7/22 )of Update on the from the Burlington County Agriculture Development Board advising that the Draft Plan has been added to the website. A signed letter ( dated 10/7/22) from the Burlington County Agriculture Development Board includes the Acquisition Targeting List for Medford Township. In addition to a map of Open Space, the listing of all property listed on the ROSI including farmland is attached. https://www.medfordtownship.com/filestorage/257/881/March_17%2C_2022_OSRCP_FINAL_w_Council_Res.pdf A copy of the Burlington County Comprehensive Farmland Preservation plan is attached. Medford is referenced throughout the document. There is no one section referencing Medford Township. A signed letter ( dated 10/7/22 )of Update on the from the Burlington County Agriculture Development Board advising that the Draft Plan has been added to the website. A signed letter ( dated 10/7/22) from the Burlington County Agriculture Development Board includes the Acquisition Targeting List for Medford Township.

    Community Gardens

    10 Points

    Program Summary: For the past 18 years, Medford has offered garden plots at Freedom Park for use by local residents. There are 45 garden plots, including 6 raised beds for handicapped accessibility. Plots are approximately 25’ x 25’ and can be reserved at $30 for a full plot, $15 for a half plot, $8 for a quarter plot or $5 for a Senior plot. Each plot is tilled, staked out and numbered and a free water source is provided. The provision of seeds, plantings, fertilizers, rodent control devices and perimeter fencing is the responsibility of the gardener. In recent years the township has added humane traps for groundhogs. The beds are prepared at the beginning of the season by the farmer who rents Cow Pointe from the township (as part of the lease agreement). Medford provides a port-a potty, maintains a picnic area, and pays a contractor to mow around the gardens. The total cost to the township is approximately $2500 a year. Since its inception the community garden has been very popular with residents with annual rentals of 75-80%. Past participants have included students from nearby Allen Elementary School. The benefits to the community include the positive reflection of radiation and reduction of water runoff. Because Medford is surrounded by rural communities and farmlands, the health benefits come from the opportunities for recreation, exercise and therapy. Additionally, the educational benefits and the importance of community responsibility are invaluable.

    Farmers Markets

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Main Street Market, while it did not take place during the Pandemic years, restarted in July 2021. It was open twice monthly and continued to welcome local farmers, artists, and non-profits. The Main Street Market will on the 2nd & 4th Saturdays starting June 11, 2022 until the 4th Saturday in October. The Main Street Market is a collaboration with Medford Township and the Medford Main Street Merchants of Historic Medford Village that is fully organized and staffed by volunteers. The market allows for at least one non-profit to be at the market at no charge each market day.

  • Health & Wellness

    Building Healthier Communities

    5 Points

    Program Summary: The Medford Senior Center has been open in the Cranberry Hall since 2004. Since then, it has been active in providing a wide range of programming opportunities for seniors that include health related, social, financial and educational offerings. While the programs are free, there are some fees associated with some programs for equipment. There is an extensive list of programs featured on the township website. A jpeg of the program offerings is also provided below. The township website link to wellness programs and social services for seniors is https://www.medfordtownship.com/seniorcitizens. Examples of three programs for senior citizens focused on health are attached: Soft and Gentle Yoga, Arthritis Foundation Exercise program and Zumba Gold. All programs are offered free to residents and are on-going based on participation. Classes are centrally located at the Cranberry Hall for participation ease and / or one of the local parks.

    Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Public Places

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Smoking and the use of other tobacco products is not permitted in any municipal building in Medford Township. "Municipal building" includes all municipal offices, police station, fire stations, schools and school administration, water treatment plants, Department of Public Works, emergency squad building, library, parks, ball fields and any and all facilities owned and/or operated by the Township of Medford. Attached please find a copy of the ordinance, photo representation of signage in parks and ballfields, and a copy of the employee handbook page 41 advising all employees of the township smoke free policy and a copy of the township website posting to advise the public that all municipal facilities are smoke free.

  • Land Use & Transportation

    Bicycle & Pedestrian Audits

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Medford is actively engaged in improving bicycle and pedestrian access and safety throughout the community. Attached is a signed copy of the November 15,2021 Planning Board Resolution for the Adoption of Municipal Open Space, Recreation and Conservation Plan in which Goal #9 is noted to be to : Create a comprehensive, integrated, connected street and road network that accommodates travel by pedestrians, bicyclists, public transit, and motorized vehicles with passengers safety and efficiently, through the "complete streets" policy. As we work toward our Complete streets plan, audits of pedestrian, bicycle and pedestrian/bicycle have been completed. The audits were completed September 15, 2022 with data from January 1, 2020 thru July 14,2022 A map of bicycle routes 2022 is also attached. Documentation in the form of an invoice for bikeway/sidewalk inventory field inspection and bikeway/sidewalk inventory township road program map is also attached.

    Bicycle and/or Pedestrian Plan

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Medford Township created a comprehensive bicycle network plan (BNP) July 2002. The plan’s steering committee included the planning and zoning manager, township engineer, police department, recreation department, Burlington County engineers, and NJ DOT project managers. The plan includes goals, objectives, existing conditions analysis, recommendations and strategies for the future. Execution of the plan has been continual. April of 2015, resolution 66-2015 authorized the township to apply for a NJDEP Trail Program grant to construct Hartford Crossing Bike Park. December of 2016, Resolution 236-2016 passed regarding the Jackson Road Walkway Project. June of 2017, resolution 106-2017 passed authorizing the execution of the project agreement no 17-DT-BLA-743 between the State of NJ and the township for the Bicycle network, which included Federal Highway funding to construct bicycle lanes and paths costs funded in the amount of $358,154.00. November of 2018, resolution 210-2018 passed amending the municipal budget to approve the appropriation of funding for the NJ DOT BNP Recently, a walking/bicycle path was completed at Cow Point. The township is installing bike racks at strategic locations. This is part of a plan connecting the town's bicycle routes. The township has also painted and maintained bicycle lanes The Hartford Crossing Mountain Bike Path, a project sponsored by the EAAC, begun in April of 2015 with resolution 66-2015 has been completed within the last two years. The on-going review of the BNP is part of the Recreation Plan for the Master Plan subcommittee for the Township Planning Board. Phase I of the Open Space Plan is required to be submitted to the State NJDEP Green Acres Program by the end of 2019. This element will become a section of the overall Master Plan. 4 subcommittee meetings took place in August. The on-going Recreation Plan is detailed as attached on the Planning Board Meeting recap 10-27-21.

    Complete & Green Streets for All Policy

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township has a bikeway plan included in our recently adopted Open Space & Recreation element to our Master Plan. Our entire plan can be found here on our website, https://www.medfordtownship.com/filestorage/257/881/10-15-21_Medford_OSRP_Plan.pdf,. There is emphasis on enhancing bicycling and pedestrian opportunities to achieve Complete and Green Streets designation. The Open Space, Recreation and Conservation Plan was adopted by resolution (15-2021) on November 15,2021 by the Medford Planning Board. A signed copy of the resolution is attached. The Township Council adopted by resolution 224-2021 on December 21,2021. A signed copy of the resolution is attached. The township has initiated safety studies and created bike mapping as part of the process. A copy of the most recent Pedestrian Bike map is attached.

  • Local Economies

    Buy Local Campaign

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Chair of the Economic Development Committee and officers of both business associations work together as volunteers to promote retail establishments in Medford Township. The township did not have any budget for tourism or advertising and a local resident created an online presence for promoting local businesses through Destination Medford. This effort includes a website, Instagram and Facebook page that showcases local businesses to their 5,750 followers. The township has also created a monthly food truck night for the Historic Medford Village businesses. This is a one night a month event that brings in people from nearby towns that not only enjoy the food truck variety but also visit the local shops, restaurants, and breweries. Every year (2020 and 2021 inclusive) the Main Street Merchants encourage local shopping from Small Business Saturday (the day after Thanksgiving) to the Sunday before Christmas where is people shop locally on Main Street and spend a minimum of $20, they get a free drawing ticket for a local prize package worth approximately $2,000. Between the local business associations they try to encourage residents to shop local in Medford retail stores. The township also supports many of the businesses through supporting and advertising events that take place throughout the town. The township also participates in an annual Medford Business Association Summit Meeting that helps to continue this ongoing relationship and conversation. Pictures of the Merry Mainstreet event are attached.

  • Natural Resources

    Environmental Commission

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Environmental Affairs Advisory Committee meets monthly and performs many responsibilities of working on sustainability issues. As part of the Pine lands, the community is actively focused on the appreciation and protection of the unique environment. We have focused on the protection of Open Space, the creation of a new mountain bike park facility for the public, and education of environmental issues. The committee has created he Green Team as well as getting more volunteers involved in projects that not only foster town pride but personal satisfaction. We celebrated 42 years a certified Tree City and will celebrated with the planting of 40 trees in one of the township's designated green space areas, Cow Point. A copy of the ordinance to establish the EAAC is attached along with the 2022 Roster and 2022 Goals and Summary.

    Open Space Plans

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Open Space Preservation Plans are managed via Master Plan subcommittee of the Township Planning Board. The completion of the Open Space Plan, which is required to be submitted to the State NJDEP Green Acres Program will become a section of the overall Master Plan which was adopted by township council under Resolution 224-2021 on December 21, 2021 attached. Taylor Design Group (TDG) facilitated the process. Attached is a copy of the Open Space Plan. There were four Sub Committee Meetings held August, 2019. The Public hearings were held October 2nd and October 23rd. A summary of current open space and farmland purchases made/participated in by the State of New Jersey Green Acres Program, Burlington County and/or Medford Township records the current total is 5,662 acres of preserved open space and farmland or 49% of total Medford acreage. Exhibit to Declaration ROSI is attached below and is based on the official map dated October 25, 2011. The township is proactive when considering open space to preserve. A summary of open space and farmland purchases made or participated in by the State of New Jersey Green Acres Program, Burlington County and/or Medford Township is available at http://www.medfordtownship.com/content/275/893/default.aspx. Open space plan attached as approved by Medford Council on 12.21.21. A map is also attached along with an itemized listing from the ROSI.

    Tree Protection Ordinance

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Medford EAAC researched surrounding community ordinances for review and consideration prior to writing and submitting for discussion and possible revision a proposal for adoption to the Medford town council. At the August 27, 2019 meeting of the EAAC, Councilman Brad Denn and Councilwoman Lauren Kochan attended as representative of the entire council to discuss the proposed tree ordinance. Legislation from surrounding communities was reviewed as was the proposed ordinance of recent submission and a submission discussed recently. Discussion was positive and lead to introduction to council. The tree ordinance was passed in Medford Township on October 6, 2020 at a public meeting , minutes attached. (reference page 10). Certified Copy of the ordinance is also attached. The EAAC continues to work on initiatives to educate the homeowners, builders and public. Dates and documentation is below. om the town council was positive and adoption is anticipated within the calendar year.

  • Operations & Maintenance

    Recycled Copy Paper

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Medford township purchasing department has been purchasing and supporting all of the township's copy paper needs with 100% recycled paper. A copy of the paper packaging for the paper identifies paper content is 100% recycled is also attached. A copy of the summary of our purchase records for all departments in the township is also attached in the pdf document. The township discourages the mailing of printed letters and conducts most of their business internal and external as digital format. The attached documentation includes a Copy of the Recycled paper packaging, county purchasing contract and Annual total purchases for Medford Township and one order requisition.

  • Public Information & Engagement

    Municipal Communications Strategy

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township of Medford uses a variety of ways to communicate with residents and visitors. The MedfordTownship.com website is regularly updated and kept-up-to-date. The responsibility for the website is the Municipal Clerk , Katherine Burger. The Medford Messenger is a monthly newsletter emailed, placed on the website as well as posted in the town hall. Our local Nixle is coordinated by the Medford Police Department. Medford Fire and EMS has a twitter account to inform residents of issues that are specific to them. Both the Township and the Police Department have official Facebook pages that are updated and information is shared regularly. A copy of the checklist is attached.

    Improve Public Engagement in Municipal Government

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Township of Medford makes every effort to engage the public and promote participation in governing body meetings, making meetings more accessible, and more conducive to public participation. Meeting dates and times for township council, boards and non regulatory commissions are posted on the website, e-newsletters and social media websites. Meetings are also available for public participation on line. Agendas are posted Friday in advance of the meeting and minutes are readily posted on line for review. See attached details on the checklist. A Copy of public friendly agenda is attached. The checklist has been updated and is attached.

    Improve Public Engagement in Planning and Zoning

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The annual list of meetings for both the planning and zoning boards are listed on the Medford Township website as attached. The agendas are posted along with minutes before the meetings. Copies of past meetings are also available with links to critical documentation. Agendas summarize topics and provide descriptions of site plans, applications, ordinances and other issues before the boards Citizens are invited to view the meetings on line and instructions to gain on line access are detailed. Rules of engagement are communicated by the Committee chair at the beginning of every meeting. Time for public opinions are announced and any one wishing to be heard is given 5 minutes to speak after they have identified for the record their name and address. Rules of engagement are also now posted at the top of the township website detailing the dates and times for meetings of both the planning and zoning boards. The rules are defined as "Every Meeting allows for a General Public Comment Session. Comments may be on any subject matter relevant to the Zoning/Planning Board. Comments are limited to 5 minutes; and the Chairman &/or Board Professionals may comment afterwards at their discretion." Links to the list of meetings with public participation expectations are : https://www.medfordtownship.com/planningboard , https://www.medfordtownship.com/zoningboard .

  • Waste Management

    Prescription Drug Safety & Disposal

    10 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: The Medford Police Dept. is proud to participate in the NJ Attorney General’s “Project Medicine Drop” initiative and has installed a Project Medicine Drop box at police headquarters. The Project Medicine Drop Box is located in the lobby of Police Headquarters, located at 91 Union Street across from Freedom Park. Residents may visit the Police Department at any time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, to dispose of their unused or excess medications. (No needles) Through this initiative, the State Division of Consumer Affairs installs secure “prescription drug boxes” at police departments, sheriff’s offices and State Police barracks across New Jersey, allowing citizens to safely dispose of their unused, excess or expired prescription medications. The 18 month total weight for the Project Medicine Drop is: 1,055 lbs. This initiative makes it easier and more convenient than ever for Medford residents to take an active role in the fight against the nationwide epidemic of opiate and heroin abuse, which often is fueled by the abuse of prescription painkillers. Project Medicine Drop is a natural addition to the Police Dept's commitment to help improve the public safety and quality of life in Medford. They encourage residents to be fully aware of the potential of abuse presented by otherwise beneficial medications. The Drop Box is also an important component of the NJ Attorney General’s and Medford’s effort to stop the diversion and abuse of prescription drugs, including highly addictive opiate painkillers. Members of the public are invited to visit the Project Medicine Drop sites and drop off any unused prescription medications anonymously and with no questions asked. Most Project Medicine Drop sites, like Medford Township, make this service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year. By giving New Jersians a safe and secure method to dispose of unneeded medications, Project Medicine Drop helps to prevent the abuse of these drugs. More information about Project medicine Drop, including the full list of Project Medicine Drop locations, can be found atwww.NJConsumerAffairs.gov/med drop or by clicking HERE for Burlington County locations. The Township hosts a prescription drug disposal event, "Project Medicine Drop Initiative." For more information, see http://www.medfordtownship.com/content/261/1260/default.aspx and the attached pdf. Updated documentation through 2022 from the Police Dept. has been requested and is currently in process.

    Recycling & Waste Reduction Education & Compliance

    20 Points
    Bronze Priority Silver Priority

    Program Summary: The recyclable materials designated by Burlington County are on the Medford Township Website. A copy of the Medford Township Recycling Brochure is on the Burlington County Website. https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/1683/Municipal-Recycling-Brochures. Burlington County http://www.co.burlington.nj.us/recycling is responsible for the bi-weekly pick-up of recyclables. A copy of the ordinance that is posted on the Medford website is below. A link to the website documenting the items collected at the 2 Commonwealth drive location for the public is: https://www.medfordtownship.com/content/233/251/324.aspx. On the township website, https://www.medfordtownship.com/recycling, Recycling tips and hours of the township garage are detailed. Medford Township communicates to residents on the importance of and methods for reducing household waste via the Medford Messengers each month in 2021 & 2022 which are posted on the Township website. A Township Neighborhood Services Department Service Guide which is sent hard copy to every resident four times a year. (jpeg attached) On the same Jpeg file is a copy of a larger size poster which is shown posted in City Hall along with Reduce-Reuse-Recycle poster distributed to residents and available on the Township website. An example of alternative ways to reduce waste is in the November 2022 issue of the Medford Messenger includes an article about keeping water and sewer utility systems healthy with normal daily activities. There is information about recycling left over pumpkins and managing fallen leaves. https://www.medfordtownship.com/filestorage/871/6027/November_2022_Newsletter.pdf The current January 2023 edition features recycling Xmas trees. https://www.medfordtownship.com/enewsletter. The newsletter is posted on the website, linked as a Facebook post, emailed directly to over 2500 residents and is posted on Township bulletin board. Documentation of regular compliance inspections / violations is attached to exclude private addresses. A total of 841 rejection violations are documented. Violators are notified in writing by the township clerk's office. A Dated screenshot of the recycling ap is attached to include the invitation from the website. The link, https://ecode360.com/9109570 provides details.

    Community Paper Shredding Day

    5 Points

    Program Summary: Medford Township's Neighborhood Services Department holds community paper shredding events at least three times a year due to the demand. These shredding events are available for all Township residents for free and are held from 8 am to 12 noon at the Municipal Garage at 2 Commonwealth Drive in Medford. Residents may bring up to 10 bags or boxes of files to be shredded on site in a secure mobile unit. The paper shredding events of 2022 are scheduled for March 19, May 21, September 17 and November 19. Each event serviced approximately 100 residents. Events are posted on the calendar at the Medford Township website and in the Medford Messenger, the township's e-newsletter. Documentation of the Township's spend on shredding events as well as the tonnage report for the amount collected are attached.

    Household Hazardous Waste

    15 Points

    Program Summary: We continue to work on improving the efficiency of our Trash and Recycling Facility. Information about recycling in the e-newsletter and pages on the website with recycling links and information is also uploaded. The Township Garage located at 2 Commonwealth Drive is open Monday—Friday from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm with the exception of holidays. The Township Garage will be open on alternating Saturdays, from 8:00 am to 1:00pm. A link to the Medford Township Website for recycling , specifically household hazardous waste products collected is https://www.medfordtownship.com/content/233/251/324.aspx. Hazardous household waste product permanently collected at the township garage include: Latex paint, Anti Freeze, Oil base paint, All batteries, Solvents, Aerosol Cans, Fluorescent Lights, Driveway Sealers, Fluorescent Ballasts and Used Motor Oil. All other materials are instructed to be taken to the Burlington County Household Hazardous Waste Site in Columbus, NJ. https://www.medfordtownship.com/recyclingRecycling tips and hours of the township garage are on the township website and in the Medford Messenger. With the addition of the Green Team in 2019, a goal will be additional education about household hazardous waste and appropriate disposal.

    Non-Mandated Materials Recycling

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Medford hopes to reduce the amount of single-use bags delivered to the dump in the borough. The EAAC has also initiated a recycling effort of single use plastic for recycling with coordination with the TREX company bag to bench program. 1000 lbs of plastic has already been turned into two benches that will be located in the community park with another bench in process. The program has been very successful. ( A photo of one delivery of collected single use bags to the local Acme collection point is attached.) Two benches have been delivered from Trex. One will be installed at Dr Still Park In downtown Medford and the other location suggested is at Cow Point near the bike path. Collections for a third bench continue.

    Recycling Depot

    10 Points

    Program Summary: The Medford Township Recycling Depot is located on 2 Commonwealth Drive off Gravelly Hollow Road behind Bob Meyer Park. The facility is open for residents Monday through Friday 7 am - 2 pm. Photo and Map attached. We have attached a photo of the poster that is on display at the Township office. The same poster is mailed to all residents. A screen shot of the Medford township website detailing hours of operation is attached.

    Materials Reuse Program

    10 Points

    Program Summary: Annual Earth Day Observance and Town-Wide Yard Sale, Saturday, April 30th at Freedom Park from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. The event is Sponsored by the Woman’s Club of Medford & the Environmental Affairs Advisory Committee in honor of Annual Earth Day. There is no cost to participate but items offered for sale are to be "pre-loved" or live plants. The event is advertised on the Medford Messenger, the township website and Facebook. A copy of the April , 2022 Medford Messenger is attached. The event has been an annual event for over 5+ years and is attended by more than 1000 people depending on weather.

    Reusable Bag Education Program

    5 Points

    Program Summary: The Township of Medford initiated a reusable bag campaign beginning in 2015. The township distributed reusable bags at the annual Town Yard Sale event and Reusable bags at its farmers market beginning June 2016. ( A copy of the Medford Messenger advertising the event is attached. ) By raising awareness , Medford hopes to reduce the amount of single-use bags used in the borough. The EAAC has also initiated a recycling effort of single use plastic for recycling with coordination with the TREX company bag to bench program. 500 lbs of plastic has already been turned into a bench located in the community park with another bench in process. The program has been very successful. ( A photo of one delivery of collected single use bags to the local Acme collection point is attached.)