A central focus of the meeting was the township’s obligation to provide 72 affordable housing units, as assigned by the state’s Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Of these, at least 18 must be family rental units. The board and township committee are evaluating potential strategies to meet these requirements, utilizing surplus credits from previous developments. The deadline for the township to agree to the 72-unit figure is January 31st, giving them time to explore land adjustments and other methods to manage this responsibility.

Discussion also centered around the Somerset County Planning Board’s delayed approval on certain site plans. The reasons for the delay were unclear, with possible issues including the filing of a subdivision plat and payment of inspection or escrow fees. The applicant’s attorney was consulted during the meeting, confirming that these steps need to be completed for the county to move forward with the approval process.

Another topic was the renewal of professional contracts for 2025. Board members were generally satisfied with the current professionals. The board plans to finalize these resolutions at the reorganization meeting in January.

The board also briefly touched on a potential application for a mixed-use development on Main Street, which involves converting the second floor of a retail property into an apartment. This application is contingent upon being deemed complete before the next meeting.