Darlene Green, the township’s affordable housing planner, presented the housing element and fair share plan, highlighting the historical context of New Jersey’s affordable housing mandates and the need to meet the upcoming deadline. Green explained that failure to adopt the plan by June 30 would result in the loss of immunity from builder remedy lawsuits, a legal scenario where developers could potentially construct developments that do not align with the township’s master plan or zoning regulations.

The township’s housing obligations were outlined, detailing the requirement to rehabilitate 130 units occupied by low and moderate-income households, a prior round obligation of 713 units, and a third-round obligation of 1,414 units. The new fourth-round obligation was set at 421 units, a reduction from an initial figure of 474, following challenges to flawed land capacity analyses. The planning board’s approval of the housing element and fair share plan was deemed critical not only for meeting state requirements but also for maintaining control over local development.

As the township navigates its housing obligations, concerns about infrastructure, specifically utility capacity, were raised. With nearly 49% of Bridgewater’s land encumbered by environmental constraints, development options are limited. A participant expressed severe concern regarding the township’s sewage treatment capacity, fearing potential overflow issues that could lead to significant rate increases for residents.

The meeting also delved into the township’s strategies to fulfill its affordable housing commitments, revealing a robust framework developed over the past year. Bridgewater has exceeded its prior obligation with a total of 950 credits from various mechanisms, allowing the township to carry forward a surplus of 237 credits to the third round obligation. The township’s proactive planning efforts have reduced the number of new units needed, with current credits against the obligation reflecting a strategic approach to meeting housing requirements.

Proposed strategies to satisfy remaining obligations included projects like Eden Woods and Bridge House 2, which would contribute additional credits. Moreover, the township plans developments on sites like 901 Route 202-206 and Whitney Court, generating credits through group homes and facilities for specific needs populations. These efforts, combined with ongoing discussions with developers, aim to align the township’s housing element plan with state mandates while addressing community needs.

The conversation also touched upon the township’s inclusionary developments, with proposals for multifamily units integrating affordable housing set-asides. Projects like KRE’s redevelopment of office buildings and the Bridgewater Plaza development were discussed, emphasizing the role of these initiatives in generating credits and bonuses to meet affordable housing obligations.

The board reassured attendees that environmental protections would remain in place, though challenges persist in balancing development needs with environmental safeguards.