Short Description:
Hardyston Township challenges New Jersey’s affordable housing estimates, arguing a lack of suitable land for the proposed developments over the next decade.
Read Time: 3 minutes 14 seconds
Main Article:
Hardyston Township Council is at odds with New Jersey’s state estimates regarding the affordable housing needs for the coming decade. The state has mandated that municipalities contribute to the housing stock by developing affordable units, calculated based on various parameters, including population and land availability. However, Hardyston asserts that the state has overestimated its "fair share," claiming that the amount of developable land is significantly lower than what officials in Trenton have indicated.
In a recent resolution, Hardyston officials estimated a need for approximately 548 units of low- and moderate-income housing. Conversely, the state’s calculations suggest that the township’s requirement could be as high as 674 units. This increase arises from a new legislative framework designed to expedite the construction of affordable housing across New Jersey. Nevertheless, the town fears that accommodating such a number could lead to overdevelopment and displacement, a concern voiced by Township Manager Carrine Kaufer.
The core of Hardyston’s argument lies in its classification within the Highlands Preservation Area, which is designated primarily for environmental conservation and has strict building restrictions to safeguard vital water sources. According to Kaufer, factors such as wetlands, steep topography, and existing land agreements—like those for gravel mining and golf courses—further limit the town’s viable land for new housing projects. The township claims it has merely about 84,000 acres of developable land compared to the state’s estimate of over 325,000 acres.
Hardyston’s ongoing debate with state officials highlights broader issues surrounding affordable housing policy in New Jersey. Municipalities across the state are required to assess their housing needs and either accept state calculations or propose their own before a January 31 deadline. Despite Hardyston’s intentions, it expects pushback in the form of lawsuits from builders who may seek to challenge the township’s reluctance to comply with ambitious housing targets.
Housing advocates, like the Fair Share Housing Center, are currently evaluating Hardyston’s estimates to see if they merit a formal objection. They argue that the state’s figures are grounded in a systematic approach to solving New Jersey’s housing crisis, emphasizing transparency and reduced litigation costs. As this discourse continues, the focus remains on finding a sustainable balance between necessary development and community preservation.
Short Summary:
Hardyston Township contests New Jersey’s affordable housing estimates, holding that their land availability is far less than state calculations suggest. As the debate unfolds, the town aims to find balance and sustainability amidst growing development pressures, attracting both legal challenges and advocacy scrutiny.
