By: Richard L. Smith
Belleville will receive a $77,671.77 grant from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Solid Waste Division as part of the 2025 Clean Communities program, aimed at helping municipalities across the state reduce litter and protect the environment.
According to a statement released by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, the annual funding supports efforts to beautify neighborhoods, clean up public spaces, and improve environmental awareness.
Municipalities like Belleville can use the funds for volunteer cleanups, purchasing equipment, installing surveillance in illegal dumping areas, and promoting public education around litter reduction.
A Belleville city official accepted a ceremonial check during a statewide event held Wednesday, May 14, at the Hamilton Stage in Rahway, where officials from roughly 20 communities were recognized.
Locally, Belleville continues to engage residents in township-wide cleanups held twice a year, typically in spring and fall.
Plans are underway to use a portion of this year’s grant to purchase solar-powered trash bins for high-traffic areas.
The Clean Communities initiative, established in 1986, is funded through a tax on companies that produce litter-generating products.
Grant distribution is determined by factors such as municipal population, number of housing units, and roadway mileage.
Additional funding is also supported by penalties from violations of New Jersey’s single-use plastics law.
State officials praised Belleville’s consistent commitment to litter prevention and environmental stewardship, citing the township’s focus on smart and strategic use of grant funds to support outreach, enforcement, and community engagement.