Magazine Cites Belmar for Green Efforts

April 25, 2009 by admin
Filed under Green News

Inside Jersey magazine, a Star Ledger publication, as recently given some well deserved recognition to Belmar’s residents. Belmar was among a select group of New Jersey towns featured in an article entitled "Five Green Towns." The four other towns featured in the article for their green efforts include Highland Park, Maplewood, Ocean City and Elizabeth. The article cites Belmar for its leadership in using zero emission low-speed vehicles (LSVs) to replace the gas-powered scooters the Police Department had previously used for parking enforcement, and patrolling the marina. The article also reports on the Borough’s award of an LSV rental concession this year to Beach Creek Cruisers, which operated a similar program last summer in Stone Harbor. The article also touches upon the sustainability guidelines included in the Belmar’s Seaport Redevelopment plan, which follows smart-growth principles and requires developers to incorporate energy efficiency and water conservation measures in their projects. The article also mentions that Belmar has been selected to participate in a pilot water-conservation program sponsored by Rutgers and the state Department of Environmental Protection. Other green efforts described in the article include the work of the Belmar Environmental Commission, and its sponsorship of nature walks and beach cleanups, as well as its award-winning semi-annual EcoWatch newsletter, which includes recycling schedules, tips on green-living and conservation, and information about the Borough’s town-wide yard sale, gardening classes and much more. The article also gives credit to Belmar’s many volunteers, and singles out the efforts of Belmar’s Council President Meredith Brennan and the 200 people who participate in the Belmar Environmental Commission’s Adopt-a-Spot program, in which volunteers sign up to clean and beautify designated areas of the town. To read the entire article, click here .