Chatham Township's own Environmental Commission is opposing a proposal to install synthetic turf at Esternay Field, calling it far more than a routine upgrade.

At the Township Committee's Aug. 11 meeting, members discussed a request from the joint recreation commission and local soccer programs to study whether synthetic turf should replace natural grass at the Southern Boulevard field, according to TAPinto. The joint rec commission offered to fund a $30,000 feasibility study, but the committee has not yet authorized any work.

Environmental Commission chair Jessica Romeo called in during public comment and challenged the evening's presentation.

"I do look forward to a robust discussion on artificial turf," Romeo said. "I did think the presentation tonight was a little biased."

Phil Ankel, also of the Environmental Commission, told the committee that synthetic turf carries unresolved concerns and should not be viewed as a routine facilities upgrade.

Township Engineer John Ruschke, asked for his professional opinion during the workshop portion of the meeting, told the committee that roughly 1,000 synthetic turf fields have been installed across New Jersey since Chatham Township put turf at Shunpike more than 15 years ago. He said there are no immediate health threats associated with crumb rubber based on current studies, but acknowledged the comparison between synthetic and natural grass is unfair because turf fields can be played on immediately after rain without deterioration.

Committee member Craig Alperowitz said two proposals are on the table: the $30,000 feasibility study requested by joint rec, and a broader analysis comparing synthetic turf to natural grass.

No vote was taken. The committee has not authorized either study.

Puppy sales ban headed to September introduction

At the same meeting, the Township Committee agreed to introduce an ordinance at its Sept. 8 meeting that would ban the sale of puppies in township pet stores.

Mayor Jen Rowland framed the measure as preventive. Chatham Township's one existing pet store does not sell puppies, so the ordinance would not affect any current business. Stores could still partner with rescue organizations such as St. Hubert's and Rescue Pals for adoption events.

Larry Cohen of the Humane Society attended the meeting to urge the ban.

The ordinance's formal introduction is scheduled for the Sept. 8 Township Committee meeting.