The Borough of Somerville has met the rigorous requirements to achieve Sustainable Jersey certification at the silver level. Certified towns excelled in areas such as improving energy efficiency, health and wellness, reducing waste, sustaining local economies, protecting natural resources and advancing the arts. Certified towns were announced at the Sustainable Jersey Annual Luncheon on November 14, 2023, in Atlantic City at the New Jersey State League of Municipalities Conference.
The Somerville Environmental Commission collaborated with borough employees to implement and document government best practices established by Sustainable Jersey, explained Councilmember Gina Stravic, council liaison to the Environmental Commission. “The application process was a volunteer-led effort and I’m grateful for the time the Environmental Commission and Green Team put in to ensure our town follows best practices in government,” Stravic said.
For the 2023 Sustainable Jersey application cycle, 20 towns achieved certification at the more advanced silver-level to make a total of 70 towns that are silver-certified in the program. Silver level certification requires that a town meet a minimum of 350 points.
“We’re proud to recognize the 2023 award winners and certified towns who have made sustainability an integral part of their municipality,” said Randall Solomon, director of Sustainable Jersey. “Thank you for your leadership, hard work and vision. You exemplify the commitment we need to achieve a sustainable New Jersey.”
About the Environmental Commission
The mission of the Environmental Commission is to educate, advocate and promote best policies and practices for the Borough’s environment, and the health and safety of its residents. In 2023, commission members served 981 total volunteer hours, according to Jeffrey Lamborn, chair of the Environmental Commission. “We organized many programs for the community, including the Jay Scott Memorial Community Garden and the annual Earth Day Clean-Up event.”
About Sustainable Jersey
Sustainable Jersey’s participating communities represent over 83% of the state’s municipalities. Sustainable Jersey provides tools, training and financial incentives to support communities as they pursue sustainability programs. Sustainable Jersey has provided over $7.6 million in grants to municipalities, school districts and schools for community-based projects that create healthy and sustainable communities in New Jersey.