Brian SL, the borough’s affordable housing planner, provided a detailed update on the status of affordable housing compliance. He explained the legislative changes that have reshaped the process for the upcoming fourth round of affordable housing obligations, set to begin on July 1, 2025. Unlike previous rounds, municipalities are now required to finalize their plans before the round begins. Brian emphasized the importance of the affordable housing trust fund and the necessity for timely reporting, which Highland Park has successfully met ahead of deadlines.

The discussion detailed the borough’s current standing, noting a surplus of 42 affordable housing units from the third round that could be applied toward the fourth round obligations. Brian also addressed the ongoing challenges with determining accurate affordable housing numbers, with the Department of Community Affairs expected to issue these numbers by October 18. Failing to meet this deadline could result in severe consequences, including losing immunity from builder’s remedy lawsuits.

Further complications were anticipated in the upcoming months, particularly around the dispute resolution process. After municipalities submit their affordable housing numbers, there is a month for challenges, followed by a decision by a panel of retired judges. Brian expressed skepticism about the feasibility of this timeline, citing extensive delays experienced during the third round.

Brian outlined several key deadlines for Highland Park, including the requirement to draft and adopt the fourth round housing element and fair share plan by June 30, 2025. He emphasized the necessity for thorough public engagement in crafting the plan, noting Highland Park’s history of involving the community in these processes.

The conversation also touched on various aspects of housing regulations and the implications of recent legislative changes. A proposal for an expedited administrative process aimed at reducing reliance on the court system was discussed, along with updates from the New Jersey Housing Mortgage Finance Agency on the uniform housing affordability controls. The complexities of housing plans, particularly regarding age-restricted units and the need for unrestricted family units, were highlighted.

A notable change involved the percentage allocations for age-restricted units, adjusted to allow for 30% of actual units after applying bonus credits. The potential for age-restricted housing to impede the availability of family units was a concern linked to the Fair Share Housing Center’s arguments. The effects of these policies on developers were also scrutinized, particularly regarding the extended affordability controls for rental units, which have been increased from 30 to 40 years.

During the meeting, there was also a focus on the introduction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and transitional housing. The council deliberated on various bonus credits available under the new regulations, which include incentives for affordable housing projects. Specific projects, such as a partnership with Rowan College to support special needs housing, were mentioned as part of the broader strategy to meet housing obligations.

The meeting shifted to the amendments required for the downtown redevelopment plan, specifically regarding Track C. The urgency of finalizing these amendments was emphasized, as they are essential for progressing toward a redevelopment agreement. The amendment aimed to expand the redevelopment designation to include additional properties.

Further discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining the original vision amidst the project’s expansion, including considerations for public gathering spaces and the requirement for public parking. Public feedback underscored the importance of designing buildings that do not appear monolithic, promoting a design that offers visual interest and a more human-scale environment.

The council also addressed the need for legislative approval for the development plan, with procedural steps outlined for introducing amendments. The urgency to complete this plan by December was emphasized to avoid complications related to the calendar year, which could hinder the implementation timeline.

In addition, the meeting introduced the topic of updating the zoning map, which was discovered to be outdated. The need for clarity in zoning designations was recognized, particularly in light of recent redevelopment areas.

During public comments, a resident raised questions regarding the parking plan and the potential acquisition of an additional plot for egress. The council provided clarifications and emphasized the importance of communication regarding property ownership and potential developments.