Cedar Grove Council Approves 'Green Team'

In an effort to devise and implement environmentally-friendly programs and practices in Cedar Grove, the Township Council this week approved the formation of a "Green Team" Advisory Committee to put the township on the road to environmental sustainability.

A big perk for the township forming a Green Team, in addition to increased awareness about everyday environmental issues like recycling and alternative energy, is that it serves as a think tank where ideas and possibilities can be explored.

Sustainable Jersey is a program that provides incentives to municipalities who take steps toward sustainability and environmental protection, often in the forms of grant money, for environmentally friendly projects or initiatives

All municipalities in New Jersey are eligible to join, but before becoming eligible for to receive funds, each must fulfill a checklist of "green" requirements, such as raising awareness providing outreach on environmental issues, and forming a green team.

Cedar Grove Mayor John Zunic, who will serve as council liaison to the Team, says the Green Team will not only come up with environmentally friendly ideas, but seek out the funding to pay for them through the Sustainable Jersey program.

"I think the Team and program are important because every municipality needs to do its share of creating and implementing these types of programs to achieve the overall goal of saving our State and planet," said Zunic.

According to the resolutiotion creating the 'Green Team', its five members will be appointed annually.

In addition to the Mayor, the inaugural members of the Green Team, whose term will run through Dec. 31 of this year, will be Township Engineer Alex Palumbo, former North End Principal John Murray, Longtime resident Gina Maffetone and Environmental Commission Chair, Mara Silgailis.