The conversation on affordable housing legislation occupied a substantial portion of the meeting. The new law, which affects the entire town, prompted an extensive presentation outlining the changes, including an increase in the cap on age-restricted senior units, changes in bonus credits, and the profound effect on Oakland’s housing obligations. The January 31st deadline for a binding resolution adoption and the potential risk of exclusionary zoning litigation for municipalities were of particular concern. The implications of the legislation on Oakland’s planning board were also discussed, as it is required to prepare and adopt a housing element and fair share plan by June 30th. The planner and Mr. Giblin, who is not a member of the council, underscored the aggressive timeline and the lack of clarity regarding the consequences if the Department of Community Affairs fails to meet its own deadlines.

Residents of the Crystal Lake area voiced their worries about the state of the Crystal Lake Dam and the potential sale of Mirror Lake. Frank Raco and Liz Parletta, among others, highlighted the environmental, recreational, and aesthetic importance of the lakes and urged the council to take responsibility for their management. The potential consequences of inaction, such as environmental degradation and loss of recreational spaces, were stressed, along with the complex legal and financial implications. Concerns over the governance of the Ramapo Mountain Lakes community, voting rights, and membership dues were also aired.

In addition to worries about the lakes, residents expressed anxiety over tree debris and water runoff affecting the waterways. The ecological significance, including the presence of wildlife such as blue herons and bald eagles, was a focal point, as was the potential financial burden on homeowners for lake and dam maintenance. The emotional attachment to Mirror Lake and its value to the community was also discussed, with suggestions for the town to use its open space fund or grants for infrastructure to fund dam infrastructure and thus preserve the lake.

The affordable housing discussion delved into the specifics of meeting various requirements, such as inclusionary zoning, 100% affordable developments, and the use of bonus credits. The speaker outlined the options available for municipalities to address their affordable housing obligations, including studying vacant land and underutilized properties. A shift in the legislation was noted, requiring the first 25% of the unmet need to be specifically addressed within the plan. The council also engaged in a debate about the impact of current zoning on the calculation process, the availability of bonus credits for senior housing, and the specifics of the dispute process.

A dispute resolution program was another key topic, highlighting the selection of retired or recalled Superior Court judges to facilitate communication between municipalities and parties involved in disputes related to affordable housing. The potential impact of a regime change on housing policies and concerns about the possibility of large-scale developments in the highlands preservation area were discussed.

The council then moved on to address other matters including the approval of raffle licenses and social affairs permits for various organizations. A proclamation for Arbor Day was made. The council also approved a request from the county for work prior to the paving of Route 202 North and made appointments to the tax appeal attorneys and the arch committee. Resolutions and ordinances were reviewed, and the approval of bills was finalized. The next council meeting was announced for April 30th.