The Pompton Lakes Council meeting on May 22, 2024, featured a significant discussion regarding the stewardship of Wilderness Island, a property with historical ties to the community. A representative expressed gratitude to the council for their time and presented a proposal aimed at revitalizing the area.

The speaker emphasized their desire to clean up Wilderness Island and plant milkweeds, which would enhance the local environment. They requested the council's blessing to proceed with these plans, highlighting the importance of community involvement, particularly from local youth organizations like the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. The initiative aims to foster a sense of ownership among residents and encourage participation in maintaining the property.

The council was informed that the property, previously owned by the Masons, has been under municipal ownership since the 1950s. The speaker noted that they had previously discussed their plans with the Environmental Protection Committee, which had shown support for the initiative.

Council members expressed their approval of the proposal, with one member recalling that the committee had reviewed the plans in late 2023. The council's positive response indicates a willingness to support community-led efforts to enhance local spaces.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of community engagement in environmental stewardship and the council's readiness to facilitate initiatives that benefit Pompton Lakes residents. The next steps will involve formalizing the plans and mobilizing community support for the project.