The Environmental Commission organized under
this article shall have power to conduct research into the use and
possible use of the open land areas of the Township of Montville and
may coordinate the activities of unofficial bodies organized for similar
purposes, and may advertise, prepare, print and distribute books,
maps, charts, plans and pamphlets which in its judgment it deems necessary
for its purpose. It shall keep an index of all open areas, publicly
or privately owned, including open marshlands, swamps and other wetlands,
in order to obtain information on the proper use of such areas, and
shall from time to time recommend to the Planning Board or the Mayor
and Township Committee of the Township of Montville plans and programs
for inclusion in the Township of Montville Master Plan and the development
and use of such areas. The Commission shall also have the power to
study and make recommendations concerning open space preservation,
water resources management, air pollution control, solid waste management,
noise control, soil and landscape protection, environmental appearance,
marine resources and protection of flora and fauna.
The Environmental Commission may, subject to
the approval of the governing body of the Township of Montville, acquire
property, both real and personal, in the name of the municipality,
by gift, purchase, grant, bequest, devise or lease, for any of its
purposes, and shall administer the same for such purposes, subject
to the terms of the conveyance or gift. Such an acquisition may be
to acquire the fee or any lesser interest, development right, easement
(including conservation easement), covenant or other contractual right
(including a conveyance on conditions or with limitations or reversions)
as may be necessary to acquire, maintain, improve, protect, limit
the future use of or otherwise conserve and properly utilize open
spaces and other land and water areas in the municipality.
The Environmental Commission shall keep records
of its meetings and activities and shall make an annual report to
the governing body of the municipality.
The governing body of the municipality may appropriate
funds for the expenses incurred by the Environmental Commission. The
Commission may appoint such clerks and other employees as it may from
time to time require, within the limits of the funds appropriated
to it.