The responsibilities of the HEC are to:
- Maintain an inventory of open space properties, publicly or privately owned, in the township
- Maintain an inventory of natural and environmental resources in the township
- Design, construct, and maintain trails on township properties and conduct public walks on these trails
- Publicize Environmental Commission activities and accomplishments
- Identify, research, and advise the Mayor and Township Committee on environmental issues that may affect the township and / or its residents
- Review the Master Plan and make recommendations to the Land Use Board
FUNDING
Funding for the Environmental Commission is appropriated by the Hazlet Township Committee as part of the Township's annual budget. In addition, the Commission may apply for grants from the state, county, and other sources to fund specific projects.
FORMATION
In 1968, the New Jersey State Legislature passed a law authorizing municipalities to establish a commission that would be an advisory body on environmental planning, protection and open space issues. In 1972 the State Legislature amended the law, expanding the commission's responsibilities to other areas of environmental concern, including pollution prevention and control, solid waste management, noise control and environmental aesthetics. The HEC, was established by the Township Committee in 1982.