The meeting’s primary agenda centered around the housing element and fair share plan, a componet of Hainesport’s master plan designed to guide compliance with state-mandated affordable housing requirements. Solicitor Bob Kingsbury and affordable housing consultant Leah Fury Brutder presented the legal context and detailed the township’s obligations. New Jersey law requires municipalities to designate a fair share of affordable housing, with non-compliance potentially leading to lawsuits from developers alleging exclusionary zoning practices. The urgency of the meeting stemmed from a looming deadline, with compliance required by June 30.

Leah Fury Brutder, a seasoned planner, provided an extensive overview of the housing element, which includes demographic reviews and projections for housing and employment, and identifies suitable land for affordable housing development. Hainesport is divided into two planning areas: a suburban northern area, suitable for higher-density development, and a rural southern area, less appropriate due to its low residential density and lack of sewer service. The focus was placed on the northern area in accordance with state planning objectives.

The fair share plan outlined Hainesport’s cumulative obligations across several rounds, detailing the township’s prior, third, and fourth-round obligations. While progress has been made, some aspects remain unresolved due to the recent timeline. The presentation emphasized the township’s collaborative approach, forming a subcommittee to ensure ongoing communication and compliance with new fair share obligations.

A notable revision in the fourth round involved removing an accessory apartment program due to its implementation challenges and limited demand. The current plan incorporates several projects, including Walters Cornerstone at Hainesport, the Davenport Village expansion, and the Randolph Senior project, collectively contributing to Hainesport’s affordable housing unit count.

A critical aspect of the discussion was the township’s strategy to meet the fourth-round obligation of 74 units. Through mediation with the New Jersey Builders Association, Hainesport proposed a revised number of 66 units, later compromised to 74. The subcommittee recommended pursuing a 100% affordable housing site, distinct from inclusionary housing methods. The Hitco site, a contaminated area near Creek Road and Route 38, emerged as a potential development location. The township owns this site and is considering acquiring additional lots to accommodate approximately 54 units, with developers expressing interest due to competitive financing opportunities.

Supportive housing on Martin Highway and the potential for bonus credits from the affordable housing trust fund were also discussed, emphasizing the importance of a revised spending plan to reflect adjusted proposals. The township expressed confidence in its progress but acknowledged the need for ongoing updates and careful management of future rounds.

The meeting also addressed traffic safety concerns related to a proposed development on Martin Highway, highlighting the need for comprehensive planning to address safety and traffic issues. Additionally, discussions about administrative aspects of managing affordable housing underscored the challenges of maintaining compliance with affordability standards.

The Town Council compared Hainesport’s progress with other towns in Burlington County, emphasizing the importance of proactive management to avoid litigation. The council approved a resolution related to the housing element and fair share plan.

Public comments were invited, though none were forthcoming, leading to a swift transition to other agenda items, including the renewal of a liquor license and payment of township bills. The meeting concluded with an executive session focused on potential litigation and public safety strategies, with no formal actions expected post-session.