Conduct energy audits

Why do we care?

An energy audit establishes where and how energy is being used in buildings and facilities. It identifies opportunities and provides recommendations for energy and cost savings. Recommendations can range from improved energy data management to appropriate energy-saving technologies, structural improvements, and system retrofits to energy conservation behavior changes among building occupants. The Township can determine which municipal buildings may require a comprehensive energy audit by first identifying the municipality’s biggest energy hogs using the EnergyStar Portfolio Manager. Facilities that score 75 or higher are considered more energy efficient on average than 75% of similar type buildings and are eligible to receive and EnergyStar Certifiation. Energy audits can be conducted on facilities that receive a score below 75 to provide additional information on how to improve their energy efficiency. The Township can also encourage residents and businesses to conduct energy audits.

Definition of Success
Percentage of facilities that score 75 or higher on EnergyStar Portfolio Manager Rating System
Energy audits conducted on municipal facilities that score below 75 on EnergyStar Program.
Energy usage at municipal buildings (linked to Action 3).

Resources:

NJ SmartStart Buildings provides technical assistance and incentives for energy efficiency projects.
http://www.njcleanenergy.com/commercial-industrial/programs/nj-smartstart-buildings/nj-smartstart-buildings
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dsr/bscit/energyaudit%20short%20guide.pdf
EnergyStar Portfolio Manager
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=evaluate_performance.bus_portfoliomanager
ENERGYSTAR Home Energy Saver
http://hes.lbl.gov/
EPA Personal Emissions Calculator
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/emissions/ind_calculator.html
http://www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/powerprofiler.htm
New Jersey Clean Energy
http://www.njcleanenergy.com/residential/tools-and-resources/home-energy-analysis/home-energy-analysis-0

Consider alternative fuel vehicles when making new vehicle purchases

Why do we care?

From individuals to businesses and the Township, Hillsborough can make a large impact by choosing fuel-efficient and low-emissions vehicles.

Definition of Success
Average fuel usage of vehicles owned by the Township.
Average fuel usage in the Township.
Number of alternative fuel vehicles owned by local businesses.
Number of alternative fuel vehicles owned by residents.
Number of alternative fuel vehicles owned by the Township.

Resources:

U.S. DOE Fuel Economy Vehicle Ratings
http://www.fueleconomy.gov/
U.S. EPA Fuel Economy Guide
http://www.epa.gov/fueleconomy/

Reduce commercial and high density residential parking requirements around transit nodes

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can reduce its parking requirements and thus discourage driving around transit nodes by updating zoning.

Definition of success
Number of parking spots reduced by updated zoning development areas.

Establish a municipal solar power purchasing agreement (PPA) to cost effectively install solar photovoltaic panels on qualifying municipal rooftops and facilities

Why do we care?

The upfront costs of installing and maintaining solar panels are often cost prohibitive for a municipality. Under a Power Purchase Agreement, or PPA, all the equipment, installation, and maintenance costs for the solar panels are paid by a PPA provider with whom the municipality contracts . The provider owns the solar panel equipment and sells the energy it produces to the municipality at a pre-negotiated rate, thereby locking in the energy savings in a long-term contract. At end of the contract period, the municipality may renegotiate another term, or purchase the equipment. Hillsborough Township could establish a PPA for the municipality which makes available all municipal facilities suitable for solar panel installations. Further, by establishing one collective PPA for all qualifying municipal facilities, Hillsborough may be able to negotiate reduced rates by offering expanded solar generation capacity. A team needs to be established to research the details of such a contract and identifying candidate municipal facilities.

Definition of Success
Cumulative solar photovoltaic power capacity installed.

Resources:

PSE&G Solar Loan Program
http://www.pseg.com/customer/solar/index.jsp
Sun Edison
http://www.sunedison.com/
SunPower
http://www.sunpowercorp.com/

Develop a “local currency program” to promote local businesses and tourism

Why do we care?

Hillsborough can support its local economy by collectively marketing the value of its local attractions, such as historic structures and sites, parks and reserves, nature tourism operations, agritourism, bed and breakfast venues, specialized tours, restaurants, and shops. Suggestions include:
• Promote local tourism operations and business via the Township website or community-based marketing program (see 4.3.2).

Definition of Success
Revenue of local tourism operation economy.
Amount of funding acquired by local tourism operations.

Resources:

Visit New Jersey
http://www.state.nj.us/travel/
Skylands of NJ Tourism Council
http://www.skylandstourism.org/
NJ Agritourism
http://www.visitnjfarms.org/
Somerset County Business and Visitor Center 908-218-4300
www.scbp.org
Somerset County Historic & Tourism Sites
http://www.scbp.org/visit/tourism.pdf
BerkShares
http://www.berkshares.org/

Create a farmland preservation plan to preserve local farmland

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township has already established a farmland preservation plan in its Master Plan Phase II. This plan should continue to be implemented and updated at least every five years. The plan should prioritize large, contiguous land base with a focus on the Sourland Zone.

Hillsborough can work directly with the New Jersey State Agriculture Development Committee to engage state assistance with preservation tools, such as:

• Sale of Development Easements
• Donation of Development Easements
• Sale of Entire Property
• Eight-year preservation

Definition of success
Acres of farmland preserved.

Resources:

Encourage new and existing agribusinesses to take advantage of programs sponsored by the NJ Department of Agriculture

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can encourage the growth of its local agricultural economy by promoting technical assistance and funding offered through the NJ Department of Agriculture.

• Agribusiness includes crop farms, fruit and nut orchards, tree farms, horticultural greenhouses and food processing plants.
• Information on financing and agricultural lands.
• Technical services for business development.
• Reduced taxes on eligible farmland.
• Technical assistance in farm building construction.
• Coordination and recycling of agricultural products.

Definition of Success
Number of new local farms in Hillsborough.
Number of Hillsborough farms involved in NJ Department of Agriculture programs.

Resources:

NJ Department of Agriculture
http://www.nj.gov/agriculture/index.shtml
Resources for New and Aspiring Farmers
http://www.state.nj.us/agriculture/sadc/newfarmers.htm
Somerset County Cooperative Research & Extension
http://somerset.rcre.rutgers.edu/

Establish a town center and encourage high density, mixed-use development within its boundaries

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township suffers from sprawling development patterns that consume open space and contribute to an automobile-dependent community. Sprawl also disconnects residents socially as well as geographically. Hillsborough Planning Department has responded to this issue by initiating a plan for a town center containing ground floor retail and high density residential development. The idea is to create a pedestrian-friendly business corridor that provides a traditional “downtown” experience. The recommendation for a Town Center was first discussed in the 1999 Master Plan Amendment and refined in the 2005 Master Plan Amendment. A Town Center District has been established in a subsequent zoning amendment. The town center must be implemented by securing investors to fulfill the requirements with an appropriate, unique design and development project.

Definition of Success:
Percent of town center zone developed according to plan. Density rate of residential, retail and commercial development in town center (square feet per acre).

Establish a historic preservation commission

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township has a number of unique historic sites and structures that citizens and community leaders would like to preserve for future generations. By establishing a historic preservation commission, the Township will take an active approach to historic preservation.

Definition of success
Creation of historic preservation commission.

Create marketing or incentive programs to promote local businesses

Why do we care?

Local businesses can help to grow the strength of small businesses by working together to market themselves.

Suggestions to achieve this end follow:
• Establish a local business network for joint marketing projects.
• Create a local business directory, either in printed form or on-line.
• Develop a local business coupon program. This can help encourage widescale participation in the local business network.
• Develop a “local currency” program. The local business network can issue a form of currency that is only valid at participating Hillsborough-based businesses. This currency can also be traded between citizens in barter situations, such as babysitting or handyman work.

Definition of Success
Growth of local economy.
Number of local businesses involved in joint marketing projects, local business directory, business coupon program or local currency.

Resources:

Trumbull, CT Local Directory: Searchable “Yellow Pages” of local businesses.
http://www.trumbulllocal.com/pages/directory
Boulder, CO
http://www.boulderinternetguide.com/
Ithaca Hours
http://www.ithacahours.com/
Bay Bucks
http://www.baybucks.org/

Provide employee commuter assistance programs and incentives to use transportation alternatives

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township businesses can provide a great service for their employees as well as the environment by providing rideshare services and/or rideshare information. Employees will have more reliable means of work transportation, employee commuter costs as well as stress will be reduced and Hillsborough will benefit from a decrease of personal automobiles on its streets.

What businesses can do:
• Provide information on rideshare services.
• Participate in the “Best Workplaces for Commuters” program to promote alternative transportation networks for businesses within the township.
• Provide incentives to employees to use alternative transportation modes, such as:
o Provide rideshare matching.
o Adjust work hours to public transit schedules.
o Provide an employee shuttle services, such as a vanpool.
o Provide a shuttle from the nearest transit stop.
o Pay for a portion of mass transit commuter costs.
o Provide company cars for workday travel (so employees do not have to bring their own).
o Charge fees for parking spaces or provide rebates for employees who do not use parking spaces.
• Participate in the NJDOT Smart Moves program to receive a tax break for employee commuting incentives. See resources.
• Use the “Business Savings Calculator” by the EPA to determine the fiscal savings due to employee usage of transportation alternatives.

Definition of Success
Number of rideshare programs in the community.

Resources:

Best Workplaces for Commuters
http://www.commuterchoice.gov/about/districts.htm
NJDOT Smart Moves program for commuting expense incentives
http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/commuter/smartmoves/pdf/SMFB%20programnarrative2007.pdf
EPA “Business Savings Calculator” for employee transportation alternatives.
http://www.commuterchoice.gov/resource/calc.htm

Coordinate with “Mayor’s Wellness Campaign” to conduct a pedestrian survey

Why do we care?

Pedestrian surveys allow a municipality to enlist community residents to monitor the pedestrian amenities in their own community. The “Mayor’s Wellness Campaign” provides a great opportunity to encourage walking for health as well as sustainability. The following steps indicate how this type of event can be arranged:

• Sponsor a public event and invite volunteers to participate in a community walking survey.
• Divide the community into four (or more/less) routes where walking groups will monitor pedestrian conditions.
• Develop a walkability survey for groups to note the pedestrian amenities along these routes.
• Disperse volunteers, with proper safety visibility gear, either individually or in small groups to gather information.
• Hold a celebratory event at the end of the walking survey with refreshments, entertainments, door prizes, etc. for volunteers.
• Analyze the results of the walking survey to identify particular routes and intersections that need pedestrian improvements.

Definition of Success
Completion of a participatory pedestrian survey every 5 years.

Resources

Mayors Wellness Campaign
http://www.mayorswellnesscampaign.org/
Walkability Survey pedestrian survey, Kane County, IL.
http://www.co.kane.il.us/dot/COM/Bicycle/FINAL/xC.pdf

Increase the number and level of participation in community projects

Why do we care?

A healthy, socially cohesive community can work together towards a more sustainable community. Community projects, from simple beautification projects to volunteer-based social programs, build bonds between residents and improve quality of life for all. Ideas for community projects follow. It is possible that many of these programs already exist, and in this case the task would be to increase volunteer participation.

• Neighborhood beautification / community gardens.
• Habitat restoration / invasive plant removal.
• Litter collection along highways or public spaces.
• Mentors for children or teens.
• Literacy courses.
• Assistance for elderly residents.
• Parenting assistance courses.
• Other programs that would meet the needs of community members.

Definition of success
Number of annual volunteer hours in community projects and programs.

Share parking needs with adjacent businesses and residences

Why do we care?

Hillsborough can create more space-efficient parking and reduce its overall parking needs by combining the parking needs of adjacent commercial, retail and residential areas. For example, parking can be provided in a separate parking structure within walking distance of a building rather than creating surface parking.

Definition of success
Percentage of new parking spaces that are shared between multiple venues.

Increase awareness of and access to historic sites and structures in the Township

Why do we care?

In addition to historic designation, it is imperative to develop public awareness and appreciation of historic sites. By marketing its historic qualities and sites such as the Hillsborough Reformed Church, the Township can promote community pride as well as attract visitors.

Tactics to increase awareness include:
• Install historic signage and directional / advertising signage for visitors under the Township’s wayfinding ordinance.
• Create a marketing plan for local historic sites (printed, electronic, etc.).
• Produce educational literature on local historic sites (printed, electronic, etc.).
• Garner local and regional press coverage of historic sites.
• Celebrate local history with public event featuring one or more sites.
• Develop a historic homes or historic sites tour.

Definition of success:
Number of annual visitors to historic sites and structures in Hillsborough.

Partner with the “Mr. Fix-It” program of Hillsborough Township, which assists seniors with small home projects, to incorporate sustainable building practices and materials

Why do we care?

Responsible Parties, Co-operating Departments
MCIA, Planning, Public Properties

Coal-tar based sealants used in parking lots and driveways contain high concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) that are washed into streams, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs as the sealant wears off. PAHs can be toxic to mammals, birds, fish, and plants, while they are known human carcinogens. The County can adopt a policy to end the use of coal-tar based sealants at county-operated properties and utilize alternatives, such as asphalt–based sealants which contain fewer PAHs. The County can also reduce the need for sealants by minimizing paved surfaces or utilizing concrete, permeable asphalt, or gravel that does not require sealant. At the municipal level, the County can encourage the adoption of ordinances that ban the use of coal-tar based sealants.

Definition of Success
•Example: By 2015, 50% of Middlesex County municipalities adopt a ban of coal-tar based sealants
•All county facilities utilize alternatives to coal-tar based sealants

Resources:

Mr. Fix-It program, Social Services Department
http://www.hillsborough-nj.org/Cit-e-Access/webpage.cfm?TID=45&TPID=6395
NJ Clean Energy Program – Residential Programs & Incentives
http://www.njcleanenergy.com/

Investigate additional energy conservation funding programs

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can acquire additional funding to promote energy conservation in the community.

Definition of Success
Value of funding acquired for energy conservation programs.

Resources:

Clinton Climate Initiative: 40 cities are working to reduce energy consumption.
http://www.clintonfoundation.org/index.htm
NJ Clean Energy
http://www.njcleanenergy.com/
U.S. Department of Energy Grants
http://www.energy.gov/sciencetech/grants.htm

Develop an interactive Sustainable Hillsborough Website (www.sustainablehillsborough.org)

Why do we care?

Many Hillsborough residents noted a communication disconnect in the community. An interactive website can provide the means for residents, community groups and local officials to exchange information and ideas on sustainability initiatives. The current Sustainable Hillsborough website can be accessed at www.sustainablehillsborough.org. When completed, the website will serve as the virtual home for the Strategic Plan for a Sustainable Hillsborough 2008. In addition, the website will serve as a clearing house of sustainability information for members of the community. The Sustainable Hillsborough Steering Committee will be responsible for updating the website on a regular basis.

Definition of Success:
Official launch of new Sustainable Hillsborough Website.
Annual number of unique hits to Sustainable Hillsborough website.
Website updated with new information on a weekly and or bi-monthly basis.

Resources:

Cool New Jersey
http://www.coolnewjersey.org/
NJDEP Office of Sustainable Communities
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/opsc/
One Day Vancouver
http://www.onedayvancouver.ca/portal.php
Minnesota Sustainable Communities Network
http://www.nextstep.state.mn.us/index.cfm

Develop a reuse center for building materials

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can help recycle building materials and promote reuse with a building materials reuse center. Residents can drop off unwanted building materials which can be given to local non-profits or resold to residents at a nominal price.

Definition of Success
Creation of a building materials reuse center.
Value of reused materials sold or donated by the center annually.

Resources:

Building reuse directory
http://www.buildingreuse.org/directory/

Develop a land trust, conservancy or open space coalition

Why do we care?

A Hillsborough Township land trust or open space coalition can bring together community residents who would like to help preserve open space. This group can assist local government via fundraising and volunteer projects.

Definition of success
Number of members involved in the open space coalition.
Amount of money raised by open space coalition for land preservation.

Resources:

The New Jersey Conservation Foundation preserves land in the Sourland mountain region.
http://www.njconservation.org/html/gfa-sour.htm
Delaware and Raritan Greenway Land Trust: (Delaware & Raritan Canal Greenway, Sourland Mountain Greenway) http://www.drgreenway.org/
The Nature Conservancy: Pine Barrens.
http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/newjersey/

Improve monitoring of and participation in Township recycling program

Why do we care?

The Township currently offers recycling on a variety of items through the Somerset County Recycling Department. In addition, residents can make online trades or inquiries for goods and services that they may be looking for or want to get rid of through an online network called Somerset County Freecycle http://groups.yahoo.com/group/somersetfreecycle/. However, data for solid waste disposal and recycling rates are not regularly collected on the municipal level, making it hard to evaluate the effectiveness of the Township’s waste reduction and recycling efforts. The Township can work with the County and Department of Environmental Protection Division of Solid and Hazardous Waste to develop a better monitoring and tracking system for solid waste tonnage and recycling rate data and to evaluate opportunities for the following:

• Expand the range of recyclable materials.
• Conduct a waste stream analysis to look at what type of materials are currently being thrown away because they cannot be recycled, and what materials could be recycled but are not.
• Expand public recycling awareness and knowledge of recycling rules.
• Increase recycling in public spaces by providing receptacles and signage.
• Increase recycling in municipal buildings.
• Mandate recycling for commercial operations (target initial enforcement and outreach efforts at businesses serving or selling food and drinks.)

What businesses, schools and community organizations can do:
• Mandate recycling within facilities.
• Educate students and employees on proper recycling procedures.
• Recycle additional materials, such as toner cartridges, batteries and others via outside sources.
• Sponsor a competition to increase recycling rates throughout facilities.

Definition of Success
Percentage of waste stream diverted to recycling.
Percentage of food / drink establishments providing recycling receptacles.

Resources:

Somerset County Recycling Department
http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle.htmlMercer

Plan new development in areas with pedestrian, street and transit linkages

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township is developing a Town Center with an emphasis on pedestrian connectivity and high density as well as pedestrian amenities such as small plazas, parks, street trees, street furniture and first-floor retail. The Transit Oriented Village District, detailed below, will also comply with this action. The Master Plan consultant, Planning Department and Master Plan Subcommittee of the Planning Board have discussed a new road network that will provide connectivity to the Town Center and the Transit Ready development. Typical road cross sections will indicate the various pedestrian amenities and traffic/parking lanes.

Definition of Success
Number of residents who live within a five-minute walk from a grocery store, publicly owned open space, transit stop, retail and commercial uses.

Resources:

United States GreenBuildingCouncilNJ Chapter

http://www.usgbcnj.org/

USGBC- Green Retrofit Checklist

http://www.greenhomeguide.org/guide_for_green_renovation/green_retrofit_checklist.html

LEED

http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CategoryID=19

Sustainable

Jersey Upgrade and Retrofit

http://www.sustainablejersey.com/action.php?pagename=act5tb&actid=2

Green Globes

http://www.thegbi.org/commercial/

Encourage farmers to participate in state funding and assistance programs to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency on farms

Why do we care?

Hillsborough farms can get involved in energy conservation by participating in this state program to develop renewable energy.

Definition of Success:
Number of farms participating in the renewable energy program.

Resource:

New Jersey Agricultural Department
http://www.state.nj.us/agriculture/divisions/md/news/renewenerg.html

Develop a wildlife data collection and management plan

Why do we care?

Tracking local wildlife will help residents expand their knowledge of the environment and provide a long-term record of ecological health in the Township.

Suggestions for the program:
• Model the program after Cornell’s E-bird data management system for citizens to record wildlife sightings through an interactive website.
• Link the wildlife data collection system to the township website.
• Educate the public about this tool and its potential uses through public meetings and school programs.
• Seek volunteers to operate and maintain the wildlife monitoring system.

Definition of success
Creation of wildlife tracking system.
Number of entries in wildlife database.

Devise strategies for public/private ownership of open space

Why do we care?

Public/private strategies can get landowners involved in preservation who would like to maintain ownership of their lands but are not willing to commit to long-term preservation.

Tools include:
• Conservation Easements
• Fee Simple Acquisitions
• Reserved Life Estates
• Bequests and others

Definition of Success
Acres of land preserved via public / private ownership.

Resources:

Green Acres
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/greenacres/trust.htm
The Bureau of Planning and Information Management
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/greenacres/plan.htm
New Jersey Natural Lands Trust “Leave a Legacy of Land” Handbook of Landowner’s Options
http://njedl.rutgers.edu/ftp/PDFs/2116.pdf
The Preservation Toolbox: Tools and Techniques for Preserving Open Space
http://www.townofcary.org/depts/dsdept/P&Z/openspace/thepreservationtoolbox.pdf

Create an educational workshop teaching residents about green building and energy efficiency practices

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can further help educate the public by holding educational workshops. These can align with local green building professionals or organizations.

Definition of Success:
Number of participants in green building / energy efficiency educational workshops.

Resources:

City of Austin Green By Design Workshop.
http://www.austinenergy.com/Energy%20Efficiency/Programs/Green%20Building/Resources/GreenByDesign/index.htm

Sponsor an energy efficiency challenge by giving away energy-efficient light bulbs or other technologies

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can spark community interest and involvement in Sustainable Hillsborough and energy efficiency by sponsoring a give-away of energy-efficient home technologies. This promotion can be coordinated with information about energy conservation at home as well as materials about the Sustainable Hillsborough project.

Definition of Success
Number of energy efficiency packages distributed to residents.

Resources:

One Day Vancouver
http://vancouver.ca/oneday/index.htm
Greater Lansing Go Green Initiative
http://www.lansingmi.gov/gogreen/personal_pledge.jsp
New Fairfield Going Green
http://www.nfgoinggreen.com/index.php

Provide information for residents, businesses, schools and community groups on sustainable landscaping practices

Why do we care?

By embracing sustainable landscaping methods, the community can take an important step towards a more sustainable lifestyle and a healthier environment.

Suggestions include:
• Assess opportunities to incorporate sustainable landscaping requirements into existing ordinances (i.e., native landscaping, soil erosion mitigation plan, integrated pest management (IPM), water conservation)
• Provide materials (either printed or online) on sustainable landscaping practices.
• Establish a list of landscaping companies that utilize sustainable practices in the Hillsborough Township area.
• Host workshops and showcase demonstration projects that utilize sustainable landscaping practices.

Homeowners associations can:
• Establish a sustainable landscaping policy and guidelines for residents.
• Contract a landscaping company that adheres to sustainable landscaping principles.
• Recommend sustainable landscaping companies to homeowners.

Definition of success
Fact sheets on sustainable landscaping posted to Sustainable Hillsborough Website.
Annual workshop or demonstration project held on sustainable landscaping practices.
Number of homeowner associations that mandate sustainable landscaping or contract with a sustainable landscaping company.

Resources:

Rutgers Cooperative Extension
http://njaes.rutgers.edu/extension/
Native Plant Society of New Jersey
http://www.npsnj.org/
Landscaping for Water Conservation: A Guide for New Jersey provides a number of native species and sustainable landscaping practices.
http://www.montville-township.org/pdf/e080.pdf
Developer’s Checklist for Sustainable Landscaping:
www.townofwoodstock.com/Portals/0/Docs/drcchecklist_rev1_11_16_04app.doc
NJDEP Office of Planning & Sustainable Communities- Fertilizer Application Model Ordinance
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/watershedmgt/DOCS/TMDL/Fertilizer%20Application%20Model%20Ordinance.pdf

Pass a light pollution reduction ordinance for all new development projects in the Township

Why do we care?

Hillsborough can reduce light pollution and promote energy conservation in the community by enacting a light pollution reduction ordinance for all new residential and commercial development projects. Illumination standards can be established to prevent negative impacts caused by misdirected or excessive luminance, inappropriate or misaligned light fixtures, glare, light trespass, and skyglow.

Definition of Success
Adoption of a light pollution reduction ordinance for both residential and commercial development.

Resources:

NJDEP Office of Planning & Sustainable Communities- Outdoor Lighting Ordinance Guide
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/opsc/docs/Sample_Lighting_Ordinance.PDF
New Jersey Light Pollution Study Commission’s Report
http://www.uacnj.org/LP/litepol4.htm
Hopewell Township, NJ – Light Reduction Ordinance
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/opsc/docs/Hopewell_Lighting.PDF

Pass a sustainable landscape ordinance applying to all municipal building sites and properties

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can make a large impact on the local environment and watershed by instituting sustainable landscaping at all municipal building sites and properties. Sustainable landscaping includes:

• Use of native species appropriate to the climate and soil type
• Planting for longevity
• Use of low-water and drought tolerant species
• Drip or other low-water irrigation system
• Irrigate only during early morning or late evening, cool hours
• Use of mulch and other techniques to reduce water needs
• Plants of ecological value, such as providing food or habitat for wildlife
• Use of organic fertilizers or compost, rather than chemicals
• “Integrated Pest Management” to limit pest populations
• Low-toxic or non-toxic pest control methods
• Minimization of lawns, which require frequent mowing and watering
• Reduced mowing schedules

Definition of Success
Passage of sustainable landscaping ordinance.

Resources:

Austin, TX Tree and Natural Area Preservation Codes
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/trees/preserve_code.htm

Create an open space plan to purchase and preserve open space

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township has already established an open space plan in its Master Plan Phase II. This plan should continue to be implemented and updated at least every five years. The plan should prioritize:

• High quality habitats for threatened and endangered species
• Maintaining wildlife migration and movement corridors
• Large and contiguous tracts
• Linkages of open space corridors to those of neighboring towns and regional plans
• Environmentally sensitive areas, such as Sourland Mountain areas, slopes, native habitat, floodplains, forest and high groundwater recharge areas
• Areas of exceptional recreation or scenic value

Definition of success
Acres of land preserved by Hillsborough Township.

Offer incentives for students and faculty to work on projects to move their school towards carbon neutrality

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can reach out to local youth by involving them in the green building movement. Classes can work directly on improving the energy efficiency of their existing school buildings or new building projects. Educational projects related to green building include:

• Calculating the carbon footprint of the school.
• Reducing the footprint and tracking reductions via an energy audit.
• Raising money to purchase carbon offsets.

Definition of Success:
Number of students and faculty participating in projects to move their school towards carbon neutrality.

Launch a “green business” certification system to allow businesses to effectively market themselves

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can solidify the reputation of its green businesses and increase the incentive for businesses to become sustainable by creating a certification and marketing system.

• Create a sustainable business association for collaboration and networking.
• Develop a “certification system” by which participating businesses can earn designation as a sustainable business and market themselves as such.
• Market sustainable businesses through a paper or online directory.

Definition of Success
Number of Hillsborough businesses certified in the sustainable business program.

Resources:

New Jersey Sustainable Business Alliance: Environmentally responsible companies that promote sustainable products and services. 607-589-7457 Fax: 800-495-8048
Chicago Sustainable Business Alliance
http://www.sustainablechicago.biz/
Chicago Green Business Directory
http://www.sustainablechicago.biz/members/
Co-Op America National Green Pages
http://www.coopamerica.org/pubs/greenpages/
Rochester Green Business Network
http://ceinfo.org/rgbn/dirsearch.php?by=organization
Sacramento Sustainable Business Program
http://sacberc.org/Web/programs/ssbp/

Continue to provide bicycle safety programs to all residents

Why do we care?

Bicycle Safety programs have always been part of the Township’s policing efforts. They provide information for residents and students on safe bicycling practices and help to encourage safe bicycling in the community. An annual “Bike Rodeo” is held to teach kids about bike safety. The police department sets up an obstacle course mimicking roadways (i.e., stop signs, pedestrian crossings, etc.) and the police officers teach the children how to navigate the course safely. More recently, the program has been expanded to target the adult non-English speaking Spanish community residing in Hillsborough Township. The program may also consider reinforcing bicycle safety concepts and health benefits on the township web page and cable channel on a regular basis.

Definition
Number of residents that have attended a bicycle safety workshop.

Resources:

Hillsborough Township Police Department
http://www.hillsboroughpolice.org/services/trainingcommunitypolicing.html

Initiate a “Small Business Development” program

Why do we care?

By supporting small-scale businesses, Hillsborough Township can help grow a diverse local economy. A Small Business Development program can provide technical assistance to new local businesses. This project can partner with the NJ Small Business Development center (SBDC) at Raritan Valley Community College.

Definition of success
Number of new small businesses initiated through the Small Business Development program.

Resources:

NJ Small Business Development Centers
http://www.njsbdc.com/
SBDC at Raritan Valley Community College, serving Somerset County: 908-526-1200 ext. 8515 or ext. 8516           
City of Austin, TX Small Business Center
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/sbdp/aboutsbdp.htm
Longwood, VA Small Business Development
http://www.longwood.edu/sbdc/

Provide pedestrian-friendly amenities in new and existing commercial development

Why do we care?

New commercial development in Hillsborough is predominantly built to accommodate the automobile, and often lacks in pedestrian amenities that connect to sidewalks and networks in the larger community. Businesses can take the first step towards pedestrian orientation by providing sufficient amenities, as listed below.

• Provide sidewalks joining commercial units and the street sidewalk, appropriate landscaping along sidewalks, outdoor furniture, crosswalks within parking lots, and other pedestrian comforts.
• Provide bicycle racks.

Definition of success
Number of businesses that provide sufficient pedestrian amenities.

Develop a green fleet program

Why do we care?

A green fleet program enables businesses or municipalities with large vehicle fleets to conserve fuel and use renewable and non-toxic resources. Green fleet policy includes measures such as:

• Reduce the size of the vehicle fleet as possible.
• Purchase the most efficient vehicles, considering low-emissions and alternative vehicles.
• Utilize green automotive fluids, such as recycled motor oil, low-toxic anti-freeze and low-toxic parts solvent.
• Maintain vehicles with a high tire pressure and regular tune-ups to enable higher fuel efficiency.
• Encourage employee carpooling to meetings, work sites and other locations.
• Calculate the amount of emissions and fuel consumption reduced by the green fleet program.

Definition of Success
Adoption of a green fleet policy by the Township.
Number of businesses that adopt green fleet policies.

Resources:

City of Toronto: Greening our Fleet
http://www.toronto.ca/fleet/greening_our_fleet.htm

Research and evaluate options to install photovoltaics and utilize renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal on municipal properties

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can further set an example in energy conservation by installing renewable energy sources, such as LED and solar-powered street lights and traffic lights, whenever possible. In addition, the Township can explore opportunities for small wind turbine, geothermal heat pumps and demonstration projects. The Township can also investigate the feasibility of implementing a biomass to energy project for the Bell Mead Depot.

Definition of Success
Number of renewable energy projects on municipal sites.

Resources

New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program- Renewable Energy
http://www.njcleanenergy.com/renewable-energy/home/home
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
http://www.nrel.gov/learning/
U.S. Department of Energy, “Renewable Energy”
http://www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/renewable_energy/
Database of Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency
http://www.dsireusa.org/

Develop a home composting pilot program

Why do we care?

The Township can expand upon Somerset County’s residential composting program (includes composting education and compost bins for county residents) by establishing a pilot residential composting program that recruits households to share their composting success stories and lessons learned with other members of the community. The Township can work with homeowners and businesses to host local tours, how-to-workshops and fact sheets.

Definition of Success
Number of households participating in the residential composting program in Hillsborough.

Resources:

Somerset County Recycling Department- Backyard Composting & Grasscycling
http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/recycle.html
Somerset County Division of Solid Waste Management, Recycling / Composting Coordinator Melissa Harvey: (908) 231-7109 or harvey@co.somerset.nj.us
US EPA, “Compost”
http://www.epa.gov/compost/
The Lazy Composter
http://www.guvswd.org/compost

Develop prioritized parking spaces for alternative fuel vehicles or compact cars

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can encourage the use of alternative fuel vehicles and compact cars by providing designated parking spaces.

Definition of success
Number of parking spaces designated for alternative fuel vehicles.
Number of parking space designated for compact cars.

Promote sustainable management of farmland

Why do we care?

Farmers are important stewards of the land whose practices contribute to the health of the community as well as the quality of soil and groundwater. Sustainable farming practices produce nutritious foods while preserving local ecology.

• Develop a guide to Best Management Practices for sustainable farming in Hillsborough Township.
• Encourage farmers to adopt Best Management Practices through educational programs and incentives.
• Encourage farmers to use “Integrated Pest Management” techniques to reduce usage of toxic pesticides by providing educational programs and incentives. Funding is provided through the Northeastern IPM Center.
• Discourage agricultural activities on inappropriate lands, such as steep slopes, wetlands or other environmentally sensitive lands.

Definition of success
Development of a Best Management Practices guide for sustainable farming in Hillsborough Township.
Acres of land utilizing sustainable farming Best Management Practices.
Acres of land utilizing Integrated Pest Management.

Resources:

Northeastern IPM Center
http://nepmc.org

Promote sustainable management of developed land

Why do we care?

As a suburban community, residential and commercial land represents a significant portion o pollution load to the environment and sustainable land management practices would reduce impacts significantly. The results would be improved water quality, increased biodiversity and reduced use of hazardous and toxic materials in the community. Sustainable suburban land management would include:

• Develop best management practices for lawn and landscaping.
• Encourage property owners and landscapers to adopt Integrated Pest Management Practices through educational programs.
• Encourage property owners to participate in the River Friendly Resident and River Friendly Business programs administered by the Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association.
• Reward landowners for adopting organic land management practices and seeking formal registration as certified organic growers.

Definition of success
Development of Best Management Practices guide for sustainable land management.
Number of properties complying with the River Friendly Resident and Business program
Acres of land certified organic.
Number of landscapers providing organic based services.
Number of exterminators implementing integrated pest management practices.

Resources:

Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association
http://www.thewatershed.org/
Northeast Organic Farmers Association of New Jersey
http://www.nofanj.org/
USDA Agricultural Extension Service
http://www.usda.gov/
American Society of Landscape Architects
http://www.asla.org/
The Sustainable Site Initiative
http://www.sustainablesites.org/index.html

Establish a Sustainability Team made up of school administrators, teachers, staff, facilities managers, and student leaders at Hillsborough Schools

Why do we care?

Information and enthusiasm about sustainability can be disseminated throughout the community by engaging students both inside and outside the classroom. Teachers can incorporate sustainability issues into the existing curricula, school facilities managers can work with students and staff to green school facilities and operations, and school policies and programs can be established to teach students environmental stewardship. The Sustainable Hillsborough Steering Committee can work with the Superintendent of Schools, the Science supervisor for the Board of Education, extracurricular groups such as Leaders of the HHS / HMS Debate, Lego League and Robotics programs, and others to share ideas and develop plans for incorporating sustainability into school policies, programs, and projects.

Sustainable School Initiatives may include:
• Local and Sustainable Food Programs
• Composting Programs
• Green Purchasing
• Waste Reduction & Recycling Programs
• Energy & Water Audits and Action Plans
(Somerset County Energy Audit Grant Program)
• School Gardens and Outdoor Classrooms
• Walking Bus Programs
• Tracking Sustainability Indicators
• Development of a Sustainable School Action Plan
• Green Challenge Program

Definition of success:
Creation of a sustainability team made up of school administrators, teachers, staff, facilities managers, and student leaders at Hillsborough Schools at every public school.

Resources:

Energy Star for K-12 School Districts
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=k12_schools.bus_schoolsk12
Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Center- School Buses
http://www.eere.energy.gov/afdc/fleets/school.html
Sustainable Table
http://www.sustainabletable.org/schools/
School Compost Manual for Connecticut Schools
http://www.ct.gov/dep/lib/dep/compost/compost_pdf/schmanual.pdf
Princeton School Gardens Cooperative
http://www.prs.k12.nj.us/GardenCoop/
Healthy Kids Grant 2009

Lobby for a regional rail access point in the Township

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township will contain one of five proposed stations on the planned New Jersey Transit West Trenton line. The line will run from Trenton, NJ northeast to Newark, NJ, with connections to New York Penn Station and other parts of the NY Metropolitan area. New Jersey Transit released a Draft Environmental Assessment of the project in November 2007, but funding and starting dates for the project are yet to be determined.

Definition of Success
Completion of Hillsborough rail station on NJ Transit West Trenton line.

Resources:

NJ Transit West Trenton Line DRAFT Environmental Assessment
http://www.njtransit.com/tm/tm_servlet.srv?hdnPageAction=Project016PDFTo

Reduce traffic congestion on Route 206

Why do we care?

Route 206 supports a tremendous volume of traffic during weekday peak periods and typically all day on weekends. While the Route 206 By-Pass located between the Somerville Borough limit and Brown Avenue lends itself to a certain degree of congestion relief, it does not solve the entire problem and only shifts the burden southward. The following examples illustrate how congestion on Route 206 may be reduced through modified regulations and directional signage.

• Vehicle traffic northbound on Route 206 can completely by-pass the most congested section of Route 206 by utilizing Raider Blvd., Auten Road, New Center Road and Dukes Parkway West. Posting signs to guide motorists would likely assist with this objective. The reverse route could apply for southbound traffic starting at Dukes Parkway West.
• Eliminate the 4-Ton Weight Limit on Valley Road to allow truck traffic to access the industrial section to and from Route 206. The 4-Ton weight limit was originally established due to an inadequate structure over a stream, which has since been replaced and has no weight limitations. Allowing truck traffic on Valley Road would remove trucks from the highway at earlier points before reaching Triangle Road and Dukes Parkway West, thereby reducing volume and easing congestion on the highway.
• Install protected Left Turn Signals at various signalized intersections on Route 206 that handle high volumes of intersecting traffic, thereby reliving traffic on the main intersecting roads.

Definition of Success
Visible reduction in traffic during peak hours along Route 206

Research current status of plans to reactivate the West Trenton commuter rail line and develop interim plans to encourage development around a regional bus park and ride facility

Why do we care?

The 2005 Master Plan Amendment recommends the creation of a Transit Oriented Village around a proposed rail station on the West Trenton commuter rail line, which NJ Transit has indicated may be reactivated in the future. Progress towards the reactivation should be measured and encouraged. In the interim, it has been suggested that a transit ready development could occur around a regional bus park and ride facility. Ridership can be measured as a means of promoting the rail line reactivation, as appropriate. Currently, there is limited bus service serving Hillsborough provided by Somerset County and the Township.

Definition of Success
Status update completed on reactivation of West Trenton commuter rail line.
Transit ready development study completed.

Resources

NJ Transit West Trenton Line
http://www.njtransit.com/an_cp_project016.shtml

Create transit-oriented development around major transportation nodes

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township completed plan for a future Transit Oriented Village District in its 2002 Master Plan Phase II Amendment. This transit-oriented village would be centered around the planned West Trenton passenger rail line station. A high-density, mixed-use village within ½ mile of transit facilities containing pedestrian connections to the station, pedestrian plazas, retail uses and an office employment center are included in the plans.

Definition of Success
Development of the Transit Oriented Village.

Participate in the New Jersey Clean Power Choice program

Why do we care?

From individuals to businesses and community groups, Hillsborough citizens can choose to utilize renewable energy through the Clean Power Choice program.

Definition of Success
Number of Hillsborough households and facilities utilizing Clean Power Choice.

Resources:

NJ Clean Energy
http://www.njcleanenergy.com/residential/programs/cleanpower-choice/start-today/sign-today/sign-today

Ensure that the directions distributed for all public buildings and functions contain directions for public transit, walking and biking routes as well as ADA accessibility

Why do we care?

As a leader in encouraging public transit, walking and biking, Hillsborough Township should provide directions to all of its public spaces and functions via transportation alternatives. This is a significant step in broadening perspectives to transportation alternatives amongst municipal staff and residents.

Definition of success
Alternative transportation directions listed on the Hillsborough website as an addendum to every instance of driving directions.

Promote landowner stewardship of open space

Why do we care?

In combination with open space preservation, it is essential to develop a culture of land stewardship. This can be done by providing education as well as incentive programs for landowners to protect their lands for posterity. For instance, landowners can participate in the NJ Forest Stewardship program to receive assistance and funding.

Definition of success
Acres of open space being managed under the NJ Forest Stewardship or other stewardship program.

Resources:

NJ Forest Stewardship Program
http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/forest/njfs_private_lands_mgt.html
http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/forest/stw_inc_prog.html
http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/forest/njfs_farm_assess.html

Provide incentives for green affordable housing

Why do we care?

Providing energy efficient, durable and healthy environments are key benefits to integrating sustainability standards in affordable housing. Currently, many advances are being made in the design and construction of affordable housing prototypes that integrate these green building concepts. Hillsborough Township should seek out developers of green affordable housing and provide incentives for local developers to green their development projects.

Definition of success
Number of green affordable housing units.

Resources:

New Jersey Affordable Green
http://www.nj.gov/dca/hmfa/biz/devel/gho/
Green Affordable Housing Coalition
http://frontierassoc.net/greenaffordablehousing/index.shtml

Provide incentives for residents to build green

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can help promote sustainable building throughout the community by offering incentives for residents to build green. First, the Township must set a standard to define energy efficiency and other green building techniques. Then, such projects can be rewarded with incentives such as:

• Special mortgage products: Below-market financing for green homes.
• Tax incentives: Property tax relief for improvements and new construction.
• Free or reduced-rate products and services: Green building consulting, design support, construction site management teams, etc.

Definition of Success
Development of green building standards and incentives.
Number of residences that earn green building incentives.

Increase affordable housing stock

Why do we care?

In order to secure affordable housing, Hillsborough Township must in state mandates and provide incentives for developers while also increasing the affordable housing market.

Suggestions include:
• Mandate that developers provide affordable housing units (ideally 12% or the most recent state mandate) in every new housing development.
• Conduct citizen outreach to connect low-income residents to affordable housing resources and increase the affordable housing market.

Definition of success
Number of affordable housing units.

Resources:

NJ Department of Community Affairs Council on Affordable Housing
http://www.nj.gov/dca/coah/

Develop a program to assist the development of new, potential and existing environmental-themed and otherwise sustainable businesses

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can move towards community sustainability by promoting businesses that adhere to an ethic of environmental and social responsibility. Examples include: resource recycling, green product manufacturing and distribution, “cottage” craft industries, small-scale food production or processing, sustainable horticulture and gardening businesses, green architecture, green landscaping services, holistic health services, alternative transportation services, pollution remediation services and others.

What the municipality can do:
• Develop a set of tools for local businesses work towards sustainability. These may include tips for reducing energy usage, conserving water, green building and environmentally preferable purchasing (EPP).
• Provide workshops to educate businesses on sustainability tactics.
• Assist businesses in developing long-term sustainability plans.
• Develop a cooperative buying club for purchase of goods through sustainable businesses.
• Research and provide information on possible funding opportunities.

What businesses can do:
• Develop a sustainability plan for business operations and products. Tactics include:
• Reduce energy usage through energy efficient retrofits, purchase of renewable power, and energy conservation strategies.
• Utilize green building and sustainable landscaping techniques on new and existing sites.
• Conserve water with water-efficient retrofits, reduced irrigation and other daily conservation strategies.
• Reduce waste by minimizing product packaging, recycling resources used in processing facilities,
• Utilize green materials in daily business activities, such as recycled paper, low-toxic cleaning products and other environmentally-preferred products.
• Contribute to local organizations that benefit the community and environment.

What residents can do:
• Purchase goods and services from sustainable businesses, both local and national.

Definition of Success
Number of environmental-themed businesses in the Township.
Value of combined revenue from environmental-themed businesses (or percentage of total local economy).

Promote rideshare services

Why do we care?

There are a number of rideshare services within the Hillsborough Township area. These services could provide a valuable asset to commuting professionals in the areas. These services can be promoted via printed materials and website, as well as by community groups.

What community organizations, faith-based groups, schools and homeowners associations can do:
• Develop neighborhood-based rideshare programs.
• Develop rideshare networks for school events, community events and worship services.
• Promote local rideshare services.

Definition of Success
Production of promotional materials outlining rideshare services available in Hillsborough.
Number of Hillsborough participants in rideshare networks and services.

Resources:

Somerset County eRideshare
http://www.erideshare.com/carpool.php?city=Somerset&state=NJ&zip=08873
NJDOT Matchlist
http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/commuter/rideshare/matchin.shtm
Ridester New Jersey
http://www.ridester.com/search_driver/searchState?browsestate=yes&statepr=/search_driver/searchState?browsestate=yes&statepr=nj

Support local and regional distribution of agricultural products

Why do we care?

Hillsborough has a Right to Farm provision and encourages local farmers to establish markets and other retail related businesses. By nurturing and expanding its local agricultural economy, Hillsborough Township helps local farmers to preserve their land, increase their revenue and grow the local economy. At the same time, Hillsborough residents receive greater availability of fresh, nutritious produce.

Next steps:
• Develop community farmers’ markets in the Township and broader region.
• Provide marketing (printed and online) for local markets (such as a map of farmers’ markets, roadside stands and such as pick-your-own locations).
• Form cooperative food buying groups, where participants pay a weekly, monthly or annual fee for a weekly supply of produce from local farms.
• Develop Community Supported Agriculture programs, where buyers make a seasonal investment in the farm in exchange for a seasonal supply of farm products.
• Network with local restaurants to provide direct marketing of local produce and meat products.
• Coordinate linkages between local farms and regional distributors.

What farms can do:
• Develop a “locally produced” marketing program.
• Develop a cooperative or CSA program, where members can work on the farm or volunteer to pay for part of their food supply.
• Obtain organic certification.
• Implement sustainable farming methods.
• Host seasonal festivals and events such as fall harvest festivals.
• Partner with local schools to provide educational farm tours and supply cafeterias with produce.

What residents can do:
Purchase foods locally through:
• Direct farmers’ markets.
• Grocery stores that carry local produce, meat products and seafood.
• Restaurants that sell local produce, meat products and seafood.
• Participate in a Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) food buying club.

What homeowners associations and community groups can do:
• Develop local food purchasing cooperatives in neighborhoods.

Definition of Success
Number of Hillsborough farms that participate in community markets.
Number of Hillsborough farms that participate in cooperative marketing (website, literature, etc.).
Number of CSA shares sold annually by Hillsborough farms.
Value of Hillsborough local agriculture economy.

Resources:

Establish a minority and women-owned business program

Why do we care?

Hillsborough can diversify its businesses and support businesses owned by women and minorities by creating a useful directory.

Definition of success
Percent growth in minority and women-owned business revenue.

Resources:

Minority Business Directory, New York & New Jersey
www.minoritybusinessdirectoryonline.com/
NJ Minority Business Directory
http://www.njminoritybusiness.com/
Minority Business Directory, U.S.
www.minoritybusinessdirectory.net/
Louisville Minority Business Directory
http://louisville.edu/org/sun/minority/
The MWBE: The Source for Locating Minority and Women Owned Businesses
www.themwbedirectory.com/

Preserve and restore native habitat throughout the township

Why do we care?

In addition the preserving land, Hillsborough Township should take an active role in rehabilitating habitat for native and threatened / endangered species.

Steps include:
• Create a list of threatened and endangered plant and animal species within the township.
• Prioritize habitat of threatened and endangered species in land preservation efforts.
• Educate citizens about the unique local habitat and wildlife.
• Hold community events to restore disturbed areas and recreate natural habitat.

Definition of Success
Number of restored habitat areas.

Resources:

NJ Endangered and Threatened Species
http://web.njit.edu/~ronkowit/ENJ/
Duke Farms Habitat Restoration
http://www.dukefarms.org/page.asp?pageId=476

Develop a Hillsborough Chamber of Commerce department to promote and assist local businesses such as tourism, historical sites, agribusinesses, etc

Why do we care?

Presently, Somerset County has a Chamber of Commerce, but Hillsborough Township does not. A Hillsborough Chamber of Commerce would help the Township to develop its own local economy.

Definition of success
Creation of Hillsborough Chamber of Commerce.

Resources:

Somerset County Chamber of Commerce
908-752-1552
Somerset County Business Partnership
www.somersetbusinesspartnership.com/

Support efforts of local farmers to sell carbon credits

Why do we care?

Carbon sequestration is defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as the process through which carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere is absorbed by trees, plants and crops through photosynthesis, and stored as carbon in biomass (tree trunks, branches, foliage and roots) and soils. The term “sinks” is also used to refer to forests, croplands and grazing lands, and their ability to sequester carbon. Businesses that cannot reduce their own emissions can purchase credits from those who make extra carbon through verified Offset Projects. Across the U.S., farm organizations and not-for-profit groups have initiated collective efforts to aggregate sequestration called "carbon credits.” Types of carbon sequestration used by farmers include:
• Afforestation: Planting trees in an area that has not recently been forested. Afforestation projects are commonly known as GHG offset projects.
• Conservation Tillage: Farm owners that adopt conservation tillage methods such as reduced till or no-till increase carbon storage on cropland compared to conventional tillage methods. Conservation tillage projects are commonly known as GHG offset projects.
• Biogas Recovery: Projects that capture biogas for use an energy or to be flared such as GHG emissions reductions from anaerobic manure digesters (methane digesters). Biogas recovery projects are commonly known as GHG emissions reduction projects.
• Grass Planting: Grass planning projects converting current land-use, crop-land or range-land to grasses that are capable of sequestering significantly greater amounts of carbon. Grass planning projects are commonly known as GHG offset projects.
The Township can work with local farmers and agricultural groups to assists farmers in aggregating carbon credits. Both the Carbon Climate Exchange and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative provide a market mechanism for buying and selling carbon credits.

Definition of Success
Number of carbon credits aggregated by local farmers.

Resources:

Chicago Climate Exchange
http://www.chicagoclimatex.com/
Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative
http://www.rggi.org/
Farm Industry News (2008) “Cash from Carbon: Producers can take advantage of the emerging market for carbon credits.” Available at:
http://farmindustrynews.com/biofuels/energy/cash-from-carbon-0508/
Agricultural Marketing Resource Center
http://www.agmrc.org/agmrc/

Seek funding sources and grants to support expansion of the agricultural economy

Why do we care?

Hillsborough can seek out additional funding sources to promote the local farming economy.

Definition of Success
Value of grants acquired to support expansion of agricultural economy.

Resources:

Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Grants
http://www.sare.org/grants/
USDA Rural Business and Cooperative Programs
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/index.html
Natural  Resources Conservation Service: Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) in New Jersey
http://www.nj.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/cig/index.html

Divide the municipality into regions of growth (as well as non-growth) and density levels, and apply ordinances to encourage appropriate development in these areas

Why do we care?

Creating growth and non-growth areas in the Township will help to divert sprawling development patters by designating clustered development in certain areas and limiting development in others.

Definition of Success
Development of growth and non-growth areas.
Density (units per acre) in designated growth areas.

Develop neighborhood associations that promote community-based volunteerism

Why do we care?

Neighborhood groups can begin to work on small-scale projects as well as contribute to larger communitywide projects, such as the Sustainable Hillsborough Community Plan. Neighborhood groups provide a strong network for communication of public forums and a means to develop new leaders for local government boards. They can also provide relevant feedback for elected officials.

Host a community tour of green buildings to heighten awareness and display a variety of applications

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can engage the public and provide educational information about sustainable building by sponsoring a community tour of green buildings.

Definition of Success:
Number of participants in annual green building tour.

Redevelop brownfields and underused urban areas

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can preserve its open space while providing for new development by redeveloping brownfields and previously urban areas.

Definition of Success
Acres of redeveloped brownfields and underused urban areas.

Resources:

Align with neighboring municipalities (Manville, Millstone and others) to coordinate transportation planning, economic development and open space preservation

Why do we care?

In order to plan for future sustainability, Hillsborough Township must coordinate its plans with that of the surrounding region. Hillsborough can also serve as a mentor for other municipalities that may want to embark on sustainable community plans.

Definition of Success
Formation of a multi-municipal planning group with adjacent towns.

Assess current means of public transportation in the Hillsborough area (bus train, commuter services, etc.)

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township has very limited means of public transportation. An assessment of available services and the population that uses them will help the Township to better promote such services and to make decisions about future efforts to develop public transportation.

Definition of Success
Assessment of public transportation options in Hillsborough and the surrounding region.

Resources:

Coach USA (Southeastern Somerset County)
http://www.coachusa.com/suburban/
NJ Transit
www.njtransit.com
Somerset County Transportation Services
http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/scootdash.html
Somerset County Public Transportation Information
http://www.beachcomber.com/Somerset/Public/transit.html

Partner with the Millstone Valley Scenic Byway Corridor Management Committee to establish National Scenic Byway

Why do we care?

The Millstone Valley Scenic Byway Corridor Management Committee is working to establish the Millstone Valley Scenic Byway as a National Scenic Byway. After the submission of a final plan, the byway will be established as a State Scenic Byway. The basis for establishing it as a National Scenic Byway includes the following:

• It is a “Crossroads of the Revolution”. (This can tie into the historical preservation part of the plan as well.) Hillsborough will have to partner with the surrounding towns, which ties into 4.3 Section 2: “Establish a regional tourism marketing program.”
• There are ecologically sensitive areas along the byway. There are three major landform features: escarpment, which forms the wall of the valley, rolling terrain and flat terrain. The valley is a natural reservoir for water. There are diverse land uses such as second growth woodlands, pasture and residential communities.
The Township can support the efforts of the Millstone Valley Scenic Byway Corridor Management Committee and inform residents about the importance of the scenic byway designation for preserving and enhancing the natural and cultural resources in the Township.

Resources:

National Scenic Byway Program
http://www.byways.org/
New Jersey Scenic Byways
http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/scenic/millstone.shtm

Pass water conservation ordinance and provide information on low-technology rainwater harvesting and reuse techniques

Why do we care?

The Township can encourage residents and businesses to limit the use of potable water, or other natural surface or subsurface water resources by passing a water conservation ordinance and by providing information on low-technology rainwater harvesting technologies. The Township can promote these technologies by revising Township codes and by providing educational materials and assistance. Residents, businesses, homeowners associations, schools and other groups can all apply these techniques. Suggestions include:

• Revising Township Codes to eliminate roof leaders/sump pump discharges on dwellings and/or buildings to the street and/or storm system and require discharges to rain gardens, dry wells or other stormwater catchments.
• Providing information and assistance on the following green infrastructure techniques:
o Rainwater cisterns to irrigate landscaping
o Green roofs
o Green parking lots
o Rain gardens for stormwater catchment and landscaping
Definition of Success
Revision of township codes regulating rainwater discharge.
Number of stormwater catchments installed.

Resources:

NJDEP Office of Planning and Sustainable Communities- Model Water Conservation Ordinance
http://www.nj.gov/dep/opsc/docs/Water_Conservation_ordinance.pdf
New York City PlaNYC: Green roofs and green parking incentives:
http://www.nyc.gov/html/planyc2030/downloads/pdf/report_water_quality.pdf
Landscaping for Water Conservation: A Guide for New Jersey
http://www.montville-township.org/pdf/e080.pdf
Rutgers, New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station: Rain Garden Resources
http://www.water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/Rain_Gardens.htm
EPA. “Rain Gardens: A How to Manual for Homeowners.”
http://www.epa.gov/nps/toolbox/other/wiscon_rgmanual.pdf
EPA. Low Impact Development (LID) website
http://www.epa.gov/owow/nps/lid/

Establish routine monitoring and upgrade schedules to encourage energy conservation

Why do we care?

Most energy consumption occurs during the building’s operational phase (more than 80%), for heating, cooling and lighting purposes, and less than 20% is consumed during construction. The Township can maintain and enhance the energy efficiency of municipal buildings and facilities by establishing routine monitoring and upgrade schedules for HVAC equipment, water fixtures, lighting, roofs and other building components.

Definition of Success
Square footage of municipal facilities under routine monitoring and upgrade schedules.

Resources:

EnergyStar Portfolio Manager
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=evaluate_performance.bus_portfoliomanager

Maintain an active Township open space and farmland preservation program

Why do we care?

Creating networks of open space and wildlife corridors is important to the environmental vitality of the entire community. Preserving local farmland is important to maintaining local food production capacity and supporting local farmers. The Township utilizes State and County funding sources, the Township open space tax and development options, such as non-contiguous clustering, open lands ratio subdivisions, and Transfer Development Rights (TDR) to preserve open space and farmland. Currently, the Delaware & Raritan Greenway is being considered for the first open space management plan to coordinate the use of several connected open space properties in the Montgomery Road/Long Hill Road area. The Township can establish a preservation target for open space and farmland to help evaluate and improve existing programs. Preservation efforts for open space can be focused on preserving contiguous tracks of land and on preserving lands for both active and passive recreation.

Definition of Success
Establish open space and farmland preservation target
Ratio of active to passive recreation areas in the Township

Resources:

Somerset County Open Space Trust
http://www.co.somerset.nj.us/Open%20Space.html
Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space
http://www.fohvos.org/
NJ Forest Stewardship Program
http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/forest/njfs_private_lands_mgt.html
http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/forest/stw_inc_prog.html
http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/forest/njfs_farm_assess.htm

Encourage green business development

Why do we care?

Resources:

New Jersey Clean Energy
www.njcleanenergy.com
New Jersey Solar Solutions
http://www.njsolarsolutions.com/
Renewable Energy Businesses in New Jersey
http://energy.sourceguides.com/businesses/byGeo/US/byS/NJ/NJ.shtml
Solar Directory of New Jersey
http://new-jersey.uscity.net/Solar_Energy/

Pass Green Building Policies and Ordinances

Why do we care?

Green Building is a collection of design, construction, and operation practices that significantly reduce or eliminate the negative environmental impact of development on the environment and occupants through addressing such issues as energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, waste reduction and occupant productivity and health. Building green requires an integrated design approach that looks at all components of the building project and evaluates the interrelationships among the building, its specific components, its surroundings, and its occupants.

The Township can take the following steps to encourage green building:
a. Establish a Green Building Task Force comprised of representatives from existing volunteer boards, the municipal construction code officer, public works and others to review opportunities to green existing policies and ordinances and to develop new green design policies and ordinances.

b. Enact a green building policy for new and major renovations of municipal buildings and facilities. Develop a plan for ongoing energy efficiency upgrades and green retrofits to existing buildings. Focus on strategies that offer short to medium term payback periods (1-7 years). Low to medium cost green building strategies include:

• Installing low flow efficient showerheads and faucet aerators.
• Caulking and weatherstriping windows, doors, cracks and holes.
• Insulating hot water pipes.
• Installing programmable thermostats.
• Having a blower door test conducted to assist with air sealing.
• Using energy efficient LED lighting fixtures.
• Siting buildings according to passive solar design orientation criteria.
• Using daylighting strategies.
• Installing light colored roofing materials.
• Installing an energy efficient hot water tank or tankless hot water heater.

c. Continue work of the Green Building Taskforce. Endorse voluntary green building and remodeling guidelines/checklist based on pre-existing green building guidelines or checklists (such as LEED, Green Globes, ENERGY STAR, National Home Builders or Princeton-specific guidelines). These voluntary guidelines can be strictly educational resources; incentive based; and/or point-based guidelines or resources.

d. Pass an ordinance to require new and major remodeling projects for commercial and residential buildings to submit a green building checklist as part of the building permit process.

e. Train municipal planners, building inspectors, zoning, planning, redevelopment and housing agency officials in green building. The learning curve for green building is often cited as one of the initial barriers and sources of added time and costs to implementing new green building projects. Having a staff trained in green building will facilitate the process of integrating green building into the regular building and site review process. In addition, in the absence of mandatory green building requirements, a review team educated in green building can ask questions to encourage developers, builders and homeowners to consider green alternatives to proposed projects:

• Advertise local green building workshops and training opportunities to staff.
• Include key staff members on the municipality’s green building team.
• Distribute green building guidelines to relevant staff.
• Host annual review presentation on the municipality’s green building standards.

Definition of Success
Percentage of annual “green” building permits vs. conventional building permits by sector.
Annual growth rate of green building projects by sector.

Resources:

American Institute of Architects (AIA). (2007) Cities with Green Building Programs Have Increased More than 400% since 2003.
http://www.aia.org/adv_localleaders
Global Green- A Guide for Local Governments
http://www.globalgreen.org/media/publications/StepByStep.pdf
Rutgers Center for Green Building
http://www.greenbuilding.rutgers.edu/
New Jersey Green Building Council Chapter
http://chapters.usgbc.org/newjersey/index.htm
New Jersey APA Sustainable Design Committee
www.njapa.org
New Jersey DCA Green Homes Office
njgreenhome@dca.state.nj.us

Green Building/Remodeling Guidelines:

EnergyStar®
http://www.energystar.gov/
U.S. Green Building Council (LEED)
http://www.usgbc.org/
REGREEN
http://www.regreenprogram.org/
National Association of Home Builders’ Model Green Home Building Guidelines 
http://www.nahb.org/publication_details.aspx?publicationID=1994§ionID=155
Somerset County High Performance Building Program
http://www.scbp.org/member/greenbuildings.html
Sample Ordinances
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/sustainable/sustcodes.htm

Implement passive stormwater management techniques, utilizing the Stony-Brook Millstone Watershed Association (SBWMA) River Friendly Program

Why do we care?

The SBWMP River-Friendly Certification Program is designed to provide education and information to residents, businesses, and golf courses on nonpoint source (NPS) pollution reduction and best management practices focused on the landscape. The program aims to protect the local environment and reduce the amount of chemicals entering water bodies. The Township can appoint a committee to work with the SBWMP to encourage participation in the program among private property owners in the community. Suggestions include:

• Providing incentives for stormwater improvements that utilize passive means of treatment and recharge.
• Hosting educational workshops in partnership with the SBWMP.
• Partnering with private sector sponsors and securing additional funding for marketing the River Friendly program in the Township.

Definition of Success
Percentage of private lands certified by the SBWMA River Friendly program.

Resources:

Stony Brook Millstone Watershed Association
http://www.thewatershed.org/river_friendly_program.php

Develop a design code that encourages a visually pleasing pedestrian experience and promotes community development

Why do we care?

A design code can help Hillsborough Township to revive and restore its character as a traditional rural town, while promoting pedestrianism and community ties. A form-based code should include cover the following areas:

• Commercial and residential frontages along streets and sidewalks
• Rear and/or buffered parking
• Variety in residential and commercial lot widths
• Building heights appropriate to street width and density levels
• Height limits to protect attractive vistas; and public spaces with a variety of uses.

Definition of Success
Development of a design code.
Square footage of new projects and retrofits that abide by the code.

Resources:

Smartcode Downloads
http://www.smartcodecentral.com/smartfiles.html
Form-based Codes Institute
http://www.formbasedcodes.org/

Establish a regional tourism marketing program

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can increase the visibility of its local tourist attractions by combining with adjacent municipalities to promote the region as a destination.
• Develop a cooperative tourism marketing program in printed or online form.
• Partner with Somerset County Business and Visitor Center 908-218-4300 www.scbp.org

Definition of Success
Development of regional tourism marketing program.

Resources:

Visit New Jersey
http://www.state.nj.us/travel/
Skylands of NJ Tourism Council
http://www.skylandstourism.org/
NJ Agritourism
http://www.visitnjfarms.org/
Somerset County Business and Visitor Center 908-218-4300
www.scbp.org
Somerset County Historic & Tourism Sites
http://www.scbp.org/visit/tourism.pdf

Adopt Small Wind Ordinance

Why do we care?

The Township Committee officials approved a Small Wind Ordinance in 2007 that allows the use of windmills to generate renewable power in specific regions of the Township –agricultural, mountain and commercial development, and cultural landscape zones. The ordinance calls for anyone wanting to build the windmill to appear before the Township’s Planning Board with photo simulations, showing how the system would look on landscapes.

Definition of Success:
Increase in total percentage of electricity that comes from renewable sources in the Township.

Resources:

Small Wind in New Jersey
http://www.awea.org/smallwind/newjersey.html

Organize community events that bring together seniors, youth, and residents of different cultural backgrounds

Why do we care?

Hillsborough residents noted that there are few community events for groups such as seniors and teenagers and even fewer that bring together residents of diverse ages and cultural backgrounds. Hillsborough Township can increase community ties and goodwill by providing communitywide events as well as age-specific events that provide opportunities for residents to meet and socialize. Limited suggestions follow.

• Communitywide yard sale
• Arts festival
• Holiday events: Halloween, Fall Harvest, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Labor Day
• Farm / Agricultural festival or tour
• Home tour
• Ethnic celebrations
• Historic celebrations

Definition of Success
Number of annual community events.
Number of annual community event attendees.

Develop a “Green Map of Hillsborough Township.”

Why do we care?

Green Maps are locally created environmentally themed maps which plot the locations of a community’s natural, cultural and sustainable resources such as recycling centers, heritage sites, community gardens, bike and running trails, and green businesses. A Green Map of Hillsborough Township can provide residents, newcomers and visitors a guide to local green options. Online and print version can be developed and posted to the Sustainable Hillsborough website and distributed at local businesses.

Definition of Success:
Development of Green Map
Number of hits to the Green Map site

Resources:

Baltimore Green Map
http://www.baltogreenmap.org/
Santa Monica Green Map
http://www.lagreenmap.org/
Green Apple Map
http://www.greenapplemap.org 
Seattle Green Map Project
http://www.seattlegreenmap.net

Partner with local farms to encourage agritourism opportunities for residents and visitors

Why do we care?

Agritourism or ‘farm tourism’ can serve as a vehicle to support local agriculture and create cultural connections to the Hillsborough agrarian community. Local farms such as Norz Hill Farm, Duke Farms, and Doyle’s Farm can continue to provide family-oriented recreational and educational activities and opportunities to learn about the production of food and agricultural products and the community’s rich farming heritage. Activities may include hayrides, corn mazes, pick-your-own operations, farm stands, school tours, agricultural fairs, farm festivals, winery tours and horseback riding.

Definition of success
Annual agritourism calendar of events.

Resources:

Jersey Fresh
http://www.state.nj.us/jerseyfresh/
Duke Farms
http://www.dukefarms.org/
Norz Hill Farm
http://www.norzhillfarm.com/
Doyle’s Farm
http://www.doyles-farm.com/

Integrate bicycle lanes, pedestrian paths, and running trails in the town center and along key thoroughfares

Why do we care?

The Township has established bicycle lanes in various parts of the Township and maintains and expands the sidewalk network on a regular basis. The Town Center and Transit Ready development (once completed) will promote a more bikable and pedestrian friendly atmosphere. A new circulation Plan Element is being discussed that will provide a connected street pattern between Town Center and the adjoining Transit Ready development. This new land use pattern will encourage shared parking and a more pedestrian, rather that auto oriented strip development. In the meantime, the Township can continue to review, inspect and repair existing bike and pedestrian paths to ensure that these routes are safe and connected. The Township can also investigate opportunities to create new networks in key thoroughfares and to require developers to provide bicycle, pedestrian and running amenities in new development proposed within the Town Center. In addition, bike, pedestrian, and running trail maps can be developed and distributed to residents to show alternatives to automobiles and to encourage safe biking, walking, and running with the Township.

Definition of Success
Percentage of contiguous bicycle and pedestrian paths in the Township.

Resources:

NJ Bicycle and Pedestrian Resource Center
http://www.njbikeped.org/
NJ Transit- Biking in New Jersey Overview
http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/commuter/bike/

Adopt an open space tax

Why do we care?

An open space tax can assist municipal preservation of both environmentally sensitive lands and farmland. Somerset County already has an open space tax of 3 cents.

Definition of success
Open space tax ballot entry.
Acres of land purchased utilizing the Open Space Tax.

Initiate a partnership to bring one or more Zipcars into the township

Why do we care?

Zipcar is a car-share company that places its short-term rental cars in designated parking spaces throughout a city. Individuals can then reserve the cars online, pick them up and return them to a nearby parking space. Car-sharing provides a low-cost alternative for individuals without personal automobiles. Zipcar currently has vehicles throughout the New York / North New Jersey Metropolitan Area. In one case, Rutgers petitioned Zipcar to place two vehicles on the college campus to encourage car-sharing and discourage student vehicle ownership. Hillsborough Township could engage in the same type of contract as an effort to encourage residents to consider living “car-free” in the Township.

Definition of Success
Number of Zipcars in Hillsborough Township.

Resources:

Rutgers Zipcar Program
http://media.www.dailytargum.com/media/storage/paper168/news/2005/09/06/University/Program.Allows.For.zipcar.Rental-999193.shtml

Provide incentives for contractors, builders and developers to build green

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can help promote sustainable building throughout the community by offering incentives for developers to build green. First, the Township must set a standard to define energy efficiency and other green building techniques. Then, such projects can be rewarded with incentives such as:

• Offer a full rebate on applications fees for new buildings that become certified according to LEED or other standards.
• Reduced inspection and permitting fees.
• Expedited plan and field check: Reduce processing time 20-50%.
• Code / zoning variances: Density bonuses, other smart growth strategies.
• Tax credits / exemptions: Tax relief on all or part of allowable costs of green building techniques.
• Below-market capital: Provide revolving, low-interest loan funds and extended payment options (often used in building rehabilitation and infill).
• Monetary awards and rebates: Provide competitive grant programs for innovative projects.
• Recognition: Promotion on websites, events, educational materials.
• Free or reduced-rate products and services: Green building consulting, design support, construction site management teams, etc.
• Fast track approval for LEED registered projects.

Definition of Success
Development of green building standards and incentives.
Number of development projects that earn green building incentives.

Resources:

An Analysis of Green Building Best Management Practices
http://www.greenbuilding.rutgers.edu/docs/Residential_Green_Bldg_MAY_06.pdf

Create a historic preservation plan to acquire designations for prioritized sites and districts within the community

Why do we care?

The historic preservation plan will enable Hillsborough to pursue historic designations for its valued sites and districts. The historic preservation commission should network with local, county and state level historic agencies as well as individuals and non-profit groups that maintain historic sites in the creation of the plan. Sample plans and community stakeholders are listed below.

Definition of success
Creation of historic preservation plan.

Resources & Community Stakeholders:

Duke Farms
http://www.dukefarms.org/
Somerset Historical Society 908-218-1281
http://www.beachcomber.com/Somerset/Public/histor.html
New Jersey Historical Society
http://www.jerseyhistory.org/
New Jersey DEP Historic Preservation Office
Castle Rock, CO Historic Preservation Plan
http://www.crgov.com/files/historic%20preservation%20plan%20-%202007.pdf
Mendham, NJ Historic Preservation Element of the Master Plan
http://www.mendhamnj.org/masterplan/Master%20Plan/MPChapterVII.HistoricPreservation.pdf

Improve stormwater basin management, utilizing the Rutgers Stormwater Basin Enhancement program

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can appoint a committee to implement the Rutgers Stormwater Basin Enhancement program and establish ways to evaluate its success. Steps involved in the Rutgers program include:

• Compile design and management standards for stormwater basin revitalization for use by businesses and homeowner associations.
• Establish a long-term program for stormwater basin management that includes wildlife habitats, carbon sink and water quality benefits while retaining flood control benefits.
• Evaluate the opportunities for a self-funded stormwater utility based on recommendations of the State Stormwater Task Force.
Businesses and homeowners can adopt stormwater basin management standards complied as part of this action.

Definition of Success
Establishment of team and implementation of Rutgers Stormwater Basin Enhancement program.
Establish stormwater targets and indicators to track progress on an ongoing basis.
Number of businesses and homeowner associations that have adopted stormwater basin management standards.

Resources:

Rutgers Water Resource Program
http://www.water.rutgers.edu/
NJDEP Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual
http://www.njstormwater.org/bmp_manual2.htm
Guide for Municipal Stormwater Plans in NJ
http://www.thewatershed.org/images/uploads/SBMWA_Municipal_Stormwater_Plan_Guide.pdf
City of Rockville, MD Sediment Control and Stormwater Management Regulations
http://www.rockvillemd.gov/residents/stormwater/SWM-regulations.pdf
http://www.rockvillemd.gov/residents/stormwater/guidelines.htm

Involve citizens in local decision-making

Why do we care?

Citizens that are active as voters, vocal constituents, volunteer board members and elected officials contribute to the power and relevance of local government. By increasing this participation, Hillsborough can improve the efficacy of its government, engage diverse viewpoints and take greater steps towards long-term sustainability.
Following are suggestions on how citizen participation can be increased:
• Create a roster of potential volunteer positions at the Township offices.
• Advertise volunteer positions at the library, in local papers and on the Township website.
• Conduct a community voter registration drive.
• Develop a “candidate school” to teach residents how to get involved in local politics.
• Provide “office hours” where local officials set aside time to meet with community members in an informal setting, such as a local restaurant.

Definition of Success
Voter turnout at local elections.
Number of local officials who conduct public “office hours.”
Number of Township volunteers.
Number of annual Township volunteer hours.

Resources:

Sarasota County Civic League sponsors an annual “candidate school” day-long workshop:
Mollie Cardamone at 941-953-2624 or adamt2@aol.com

Develop an architectural design standard, signage and other features that denote Hillsborough Township with a unique identity and appearance

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can further develop its community identity by instituting a design standard that applies to architectural styles of residential, retail and commercial buildings as well as site layout (such as the location and characteristics of parking lots, pedestrian amenities and landscape buffers). The Hillsborough Planning Department developed an appropriate design standard for new development proposals.

Definition of success
Development of architectural and site design standard.
Percent of new projects that successfully apply the architectural design standard.

Employ traffic-calming devices throughout the Township

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can greatly improve the walkability of its community by providing pedestrian amenities and traffic-calming devices on its thoroughfares. The Township should prioritize high-pedestrian locations, such as schools, retail areas and transit stops. Suggested actions to take are:

• Widen sidewalks
• Raised and painted crosswalks
• Install curb extensions, center islands and plantings
• Narrow roads and lanes
• Diagonal parking

Definition of success
Miles of streets that contain pedestrian amenities and traffic-calming devices.

Create “Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) zone in the town center to divert growth from rural low-growth or non-growth areas

Why do we care?

A TDR program can help to reallocate development within the community so that landowners can still benefit from the value of their development rights while preserving land.

Definition of Success
Number of acres involved in the TDR program.
Monetary value of development rights transferred via the TDR program.

Resources:

New Jersey Office of Smart Growth: Transfer of Development Rights (TDR)
http://www.nj.gov/dca/osg/resources/tdr/index.shtml
New Jersey State Transfer of Development Rights Bank
http://www.state.nj.us/agriculture/sadc/tdr.htm

Hire qualified Green Building or other certified sustainable building professionals for building and renovation projects

Why do we care?

Hillsborough Township can set an example by hiring sustainable building professionals for all new building or renovation projects. Hillsborough businesses and residents can help contribute to a more sustainable community by hiring green building professionals.

Definition of success
Number of building and renovation projects contracted to sustainable building professionals by the Township.
Number of building and renovation projects completed by sustainable building professionals for local businesses.
Number of building and renovation projects completed by sustainable building professionals for residents.
Number of LEED accredited professionals on Township Staff.

Create an online database / website of green buildings professionals in the local area as well as resources available

Why do we care?

In addition to promoting green building, it is important to provide residents with adequate tools to implement green building projects in their own home. The database is a great way to connect green building professionals with township residents and businesses who may be looking to begin a building project or renovation.

Definition of Success:
Creation of a green building professionals database.
Number of regional green professionals profiled in the database.
Number of successful contracts initiated through the database.

Resources:

City of Austin “Choosing a Green Building Professional” searchable database
http://web.memberclicks.com/mc/page.do?orgId=ae

Assess affordable housing needs

Why do we care?

Many Hillsborough residents expressed concern about rising housing prices in the community. It will be helpful to review housing prices in the context of current resident incomes as well as future population projections and housing demand. This will help the group to discern how much and what type of affordable housing is needed for the present and future residents of Hillsborough Township.

Definition of success
Affordable housing assessment.