Watershed Institute seeks Monroe participation in Upper Millstone regional MS4 plan; estimated town cost $39,900–$59,600

During the Dec. 22 meeting, Jol Maloney, municipal policy specialist with the Watershed Institute, urged Monroe Township to participate in a regional Upper Millstone watershed assessment intended to satisfy MS4 permit requirements.

Maloney said the institute reviewed two consultant proposals (One Water and Princeton Hydro) and that Monroe’s participation costs could range from $39,891 to $59,618 depending on whether the group elects to perform water‑quality monitoring to inform the plan. She said the watershed assessment report (phase two of the watershed improvement plan) is due at the end of December 2026 and that municipalities must decide soon whether to join the regional approach so a consultant can complete the plan in time.

"We believe that when it comes to this watershed assessment report that working with your neighboring towns in the watershed leads to better and smarter solutions and plans for the entire watershed," Maloney said, and she invited Monroe officials to a late‑January meeting where participation and consultant tasks will be discussed.

Council members acknowledged the MS4 reporting requirement, expressed interest in attending the upcoming meeting, and said the business administrator will follow up after the new year to evaluate expenses and participation. No formal vote was taken. The Watershed Institute said it is seeking funding sources to lower towns' costs and offered to meet with Monroe staff for more detailed briefings.

Next steps: Maloney said a regional meeting is planned for late January; town staff will assess budget implications and report back to council.