Environmental Commission
The Environmental Commission’s mission is to educate, advocate, and promote best policies and practices for the Borough’s environment and the health and safety of its residents and by encouraging maintenance and conservation of open space and wetlands in the Borough.
Our goals are to advocate for the long-term protection of the Borough’s natural resources and to promote public interest in environmental issues and to work with the community to protect our unique natural resources.
Interested in being appointed to the Environmental Commission?
Email Councilperson Thomas Slockbower to get more information at slockbowerrb@rockawayborough.org.
Meetings
The Environmental Commission meets the third Thursday of January, March, May, July, September, and November in the Community Center, 21-25 Union St. at 6:30 p.m. Meeting schedule is subject to change. Click here for the up-to-date meeting schedule.
Minutes and Agendas
Click here to view the Environmental Commission minutes and agendas. They are posted on the meetings page.
Members
The Environmental Commission currently consists of five members as follows:
2026 Members
| Name | Term | Ending |
|---|---|---|
| Frank Cappuccio | 3-yr | 12/31/28 |
| Katie Clark, Secretary | 3-yr | 12/31/28 |
| Kathy Haake, Chair | 3-yr | 12/31/28 |
| Rachel Kelly | 3-yr | 12/31/26 |
| Lisa Lusardi | 3-yr | 12/31/27 |
| Vacant - Alternate | ||
| Vacant - Alternate |
News and Announcments
Environmental Commission announcements will be posted on the Announcements page.
Rockaway Borough River Cleanup Draws Record Volunteer Turnout, Highlighting Growing Community Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
ROCKAWAY BOROUGH, N.J. — May 18, 2026 — The Rockaway Borough Environmental Commission celebrated another successful community cleanup effort on Saturday, May 16, as a record number of volunteers — more than 30 people — came together to help clean and beautify areas surrounding the Rockaway River and public spaces throughout the Borough.
Volunteers collected 30 contractor-sized bags of litter and debris during the event, helping improve local waterways, parks, and neighborhoods while reinforcing the community’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and civic pride.
The cleanup comes at a time when new national data is showing measurable progress in the fight against litter nationwide. A newly released 2026 study from Keep America Beautiful found that litter across America’s roadways and waterways has declined 34% since 2020 — evidence that local education, volunteerism, cleanup initiatives, and stronger community engagement are making a meaningful impact nationwide.
Local leaders say Rockaway Borough is helping lead that positive momentum.
“The efforts of everyone involved on Saturday made a difference as each resident and participant recognizes environmental impacts in every corner of our community,” said Tom Mulligan, Mayor of Rockaway Borough. “Solutions are built one day at a time and this is a great example of how our Environmental Commission energizes the community to get involved.”
“Seeing so many residents, families, students, and local businesses come together for this cleanup was incredibly inspiring,” said Kathy Haake. “Real environmental change starts at the community level, and events like this prove that people in Rockaway Borough truly care about protecting and improving the place we call home. We’re always looking for more residents who share that passion, and we currently have an open seat on the Environmental Commission for anyone interested in getting involved and making a difference.”
Organizers noted that while litter reduction efforts remain important, the success of events like the May 16 cleanup demonstrates how community awareness and participation are evolving.
“As communities across the country begin seeing the results of sustained cleanup and education efforts, it allows municipalities like Rockaway Borough to continue focusing on other serious environmental issues impacting our local community — from water quality and storm resilience to sustainable practices and long-term conservation initiatives,” said Thomas Slockbower, Rockaway Borough Council Member and Environmental Commission Liaison.
The Environmental Commission also recognized the important support of local businesses that helped make the event possible through donations and community partnership efforts. Special thanks were extended to Anthony's Pizzeria and Rockaway Sentry Hardware for their generous support of the cleanup initiative and continued investment in the Rockaway Borough community.
The Commission credited the event’s success to the dedication of volunteers, local partners, Borough leadership, and residents who continue to support cleaner public spaces and a healthier environment for future generations.
The Environmental Commission encourages residents to stay involved through future cleanup events, environmental education initiatives, and local sustainability programs planned throughout the year.
For more information about the Rockaway Borough Environmental Commission and upcoming community initiatives, visit us online.
MEDIA CONTACT
Kathy Haake, President 973-600-4328
Rachel Kelly, Commission Member 201-486-0820
Recycle Coach
Did you know there is an app you can download to remind you about garbage and recycling collection days? It also helps you confirm what belongs in the recycling bin and what goes in the trash. It’s called Recycle Coach see NJDEP| Division of Sustainable Waste Management | RC Morris County or download it here for Android or Apple.
