0:00The planner explained that Garwood’s obligation for the fourth round of affordable housing is set at 80 units, a number calculated using a methodology involving factors such as the equalized non-residential valuation, income capacity, and land capacity. With only approximately 0.399 acres of developable land available, the borough faces significant hurdles in meeting this obligation. The emphasis was placed on the necessity of identifying suitable redevelopment sites and crafting a realistic development potential plan.

The discussion of strategies to address the calculated obligation was thorough, with the planner expressing skepticism about the possibility of contesting the obligation number. Instead, the focus should be on proactive planning and collaboration to identify potential redevelopment opportunities. The importance of timely action was reiterated, as the governing body must adopt a resolution by January 31, 2025, to maintain immunity from builder’s remedy lawsuits, which could allow developers to bypass local zoning laws.

The board also discussed the broader implications of the new affordable housing bill signed by the governor on March 20, 2024, which introduced new guidelines for municipalities. The planner emphasized Garwood’s strong track record of compliance with its constitutional obligations but acknowledged the challenges posed by the new legislative requirements and the borough’s constrained land situation.

24:31In addition to affordable housing, the meeting addressed the need for Garwood to develop a housing element fair share plan by June 30, 2025, to maintain legal immunity from potential challenges by developers. The urgency of this task was underscored, with the timeline necessitating that the plan undergo public hearings and be ready well ahead of the final deadline. The complexities involved in satisfying the housing obligations were discussed, with particular attention to the requirement that 50% of units be designed for families, 30% be age-restricted, and 25% be eligible for bonus credits.

Traffic issues were another concern raised during the meeting, with a participant expressing frustration over increased commute times and the potential for the planning process to overlook existing traffic conditions. This highlighted the need for the planning board to consider the community’s infrastructure capacity when developing housing plans.

43:14The meeting also touched on proposed amendments to legislation that could impact the borough’s planning efforts. There was a discussion about the methodology for calculating housing obligations. The current methodology, established through the Jacobson trial, was recognized as complex and widely accepted across the state. Despite the ongoing legal challenges and potential amendments, the board emphasized the importance of staying focused on their responsibilities and meeting established deadlines.

Amidst these discussions, there was confirmation that all current redevelopment projects had been properly zoned, with a midpoint review indicating compliance with third round planning obligations through June 30, 2025. The concept of Realistic Development Potential (RDP) was introduced, which involves assessing parcels of land likely to be redeveloped. The distinction between RDP and unmet need was clarified, emphasizing the need for strategic zoning measures to address additional housing requirements.

Concerns were also raised about the implications of state mandates for low-income housing, with the historical context of past zoning practices discussed. There was a call for clarity on the documentation and processes required by the July 1, 2025 deadline, including master plan hearings and zoning ordinance amendments.

1:20:11The meeting concluded with discussions on new ordinances aimed at managing residential expansions and the need for streamlined processes to ensure compliance. The importance of coordination between construction departments and the planning board was emphasized, as was the broader national crisis in affordable housing, reflecting challenges not unique to Garwood.