Green Township Open Space panel recommends $5,000 streamlined update to Open and Recreation Plan

The Green Township Open Space Advisory Committee voted Jan. 7 to recommend a streamlined $5,000 update to the township’s Open and Recreation Plan to maintain eligibility for state grant programs.

Louis (Lou) Caruso told the committee the Land Conservancy of New Jersey had contacted the township about updating the plan, last revised in 2009, and said “the State requires that Plans be updated every 10 years” to remain eligible for funding through Green Acres or the farmland program. The Land Conservancy quoted $15,000 for a full update (with a $2,500 discount available) and an alternative streamlined update priced at $5,000 that could be included as an element in the township Master Plan.

After a brief discussion, Richard Conklin moved and Margaret “Peg” Phillips seconded a motion to recommend the $5,000 streamlined update; all present voted in favor. The committee’s recommendation will be forwarded to the Township Committee for consideration, including whether to pay the cost from the Open Space Trust Fund.

Why it matters: the Open and Recreation Plan is a prerequisite for some state grants, including Green Acres and farmland preservation grants. If the plan is not current, the township could be ineligible for those funding sources for park acquisitions, trail work, or preservation projects.

Details and next steps: the Land Conservancy provided two price points — about $15,000 for a more comprehensive update (reduced by $2,500 under an offered discount) or a $5,000 streamlined update that can be adopted as a Master Plan element. The committee did not authorize payment; it voted to recommend the streamlined option to the Township Committee, which will make any funding decision.

The committee’s motion was made by Richard Conklin and seconded by Peg Phillips; the vote was unanimous among members present. The committee noted the recommendation would be transmitted to the Township Committee for final action.