The board’s discourse on affordable housing obligations was a focal point, as Howell faces a requirement to accommodate 338 units. These numbers, provided by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA), sparked concerns over potential inaccuracies. Some properties were improperly included in the DCA’s calculations, such as the Parkway median and several churches. The speaker noted that these inclusions were perplexing and highlighted the need for a more refined methodology. The board was informed that the governing body must decide whether to accept or contest the DCA’s calculated obligation by the end of the month. This could potentially lead to negotiations with the Fair Share Housing Center if Howell opts to dispute the numbers.

The urgency of the situation was underscored by a looming deadline: the township had until June 30th to adopt a housing element as part of its master plan. The next round of affordable housing requirements was set to begin at the end of January, necessitating prompt action. The governing body planned to pass a resolution to initiate the process, with necessary documentation to be finalized by the end of May to meet notice requirements for a public hearing in June. One public meeting was intended to discuss the housing element, though this could change based on community response. The community’s engagement was anticipated, particularly from individuals whose proposals were not selected by the governing body.

Changes to the bonus structure for affordable housing credits were also discussed. The township previously benefited from a two-for-one credit system for rental units, which had been modified to provide only half a credit unless the units were near mass transportation or within a redevelopment area. Additionally, the cap for senior housing credits was slightly increased from 25% to 30%.

Following the housing discussion, the board proceeded with its reorganization for 2025. Nick Huszar was unanimously elected as chairman, while Chris Mercer was chosen as vice chairman, both receiving full backing from the board members present. Eileen was appointed as secretary, cementing a leadership framework for the year. For legal and technical support, the board approved the Weer Law Group as consulting attorney and CME as consulting engineer. Lon Aacan was appointed as consulting planner, and CME was also named as the licensed tree expert.

The board reviewed and approved the proposed meeting dates for 2025 to 2026 and confirmed the Asbury Park Press and the Star Ledger as the official newspapers for publishing. The site review committee was established, with Eileen appointing herself and two others as members. Mr. Rebel was appointed as chairman of the master plan review committee.

The meeting also addressed several application-related matters. Three applications were carried to the February 20, 2025 meeting without requiring further notice to property owners. These included SP 11127 by Diversified Acquisitions LLC, SP 1123 for SMC Properties, and SD 3013 for Badar LLC. The board unanimously agreed to this arrangement.

An application for submission waivers was reviewed for case number SP 11133 concerning the Archangel Michael Coptic Orthodox Church. Attorney Kenneth Pape represented the applicant, and the board considered the checklist waivers outlined in a December 12, 2024 letter from CME.

Another topic was the case number SP 1034a concerning Gutierrez Properties LLC, which involved preliminary and final major site plan approval alongside ancillary variance and design waiver relief. The project, which involved storage containers on gravel, was approved for submission waivers after a motion passed without dissent.