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Paramus cleanup collected 31 bags; commissioners note waiver and food logistics ahead of September event
Summary
At its May 6 meeting, the Paramus Environmental Commission reviewed a May 2 cleanup that collected 31 bags of trash with 54 volunteers (57 signed up) and noted 13 volunteers attended without waivers; commissioners discussed roles, food provisioning and scheduling a September cleanup.
The Paramus Environmental Commission reviewed results of a May 2 cleanup and discussed logistics for a September event during its May 6 meeting.
Nicole Smith, borough staff, summarized collection results: volunteers gathered 31 bags of trash along with items including broken tiles, a sign, a locker, a light fixture, a pylon and dead animals. Smith said 54 volunteers attended though 57 had signed up and that 13 participants showed up without having turned in waivers. She noted supplies were adequate and water was donated by BJ's but the issue of food—bagels versus other options—drew comments from commissioners.
Commissioner Tom Donahue asked what the commission's role should be, describing the commission's impression that the cleanup was a Department of Public Works (DPW) event. Nicole Smith said the commission must host two cleanups per grant requirements; if the commission declines to participate the DPW will host without the commission. Commissioners debated food allocations, with Denis Niland urging not to "go over the top" and Sofiya Haque saying food draws participation.
All agreed to finalize logistics for a September 19th cleanup no later than the August meeting and to adjust site assignments; exact roles, waiver procedures and food provisioning were left for follow-up coordination.
