The Corzine administration is at war with itself over the environment, with the latest skirmish involving a resolution that
would give the Planning Commission the power to oversee and coordinate any laws that impact the environment and planning, oversee capital improvements of more than $1 million, including state Green Acres acquisitions, and evaluate any public expenditures based on how they meet the goals of the state master plan.
The key issue, according to environmentalists, is a recommendation
to give the Planning Commission the power to override DEP rules and local laws involving such issues at where development may occur, including near water
resources, and where sewer lines may be placed.“The governor said they were only drafts,” Tittel said. “But here is the State Planning Commission trying to implement them without meeting with environmental groups or the public. The planning commission is saying if it is not consistent with what we say, you should not be allowed to do these things.”
The governor has tabled the resolution — which, hopefully, means he’s planning to hold the line on this and protect the environment. Efficiency is great, but environmental protection is key.
South Brunswick Post, The Cranbury Press
The Blog of South Brunswick
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Hank Kalet 