the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Montvale NJ, Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali has voiced strong opposition to New Jersey’s newly announced affordable housing requirements. Released by the state’s Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the mandates task Montvale with developing 348 affordable housing units over the next decade. When factoring in 20% inclusionary zoning, that number could soar to 1,740 units, a prospect Ghassali describes as “excessive and burdensome.” He argues these figures threaten to overwhelm the borough’s resources and has filed for a legal stay, intending to temporarily halt enforcement while pursuing a lawsuit.
“These numbers were expected to be burdensome, but the reality is even worse,” Ghassali shared online. He claims the state’s expectations disregard practical limits and will stretch local resources thin. His coalition, the Local Leaders for Responsible Planning (LLRP), believes these mandates represent an unfunded directive that smaller municipalities like Montvale are ill-equipped to handle.
In contrast, advocates like New Jersey Future’s executive director Peter Kasabach see the mandates as a gateway to smart growth. Kasabach argues they offer a unique opportunity for thoughtful urban planning, integrating housing with amenities like schools, jobs, and public services. “The starting pistol for good planning went off with a bang,” he stated, suggesting that the obligations could catalyze sustainable development and community revitalization across New Jersey.
Meanwhile, critics, including “Fair Share Housing Center” and State Senator Holly Schepisi, emphasize different stakes. Alex Staropoli of Fair Share Housing Center criticized Ghassali’s stance, suggesting it excludes low-income residents, while Sen. Schepisi contends that Bergen County, already grappling with high taxes and traffic, will bear an undue burden.
As Montvale prepares for a legal battle, the DCA’s report has ignited debate over how the state balances affordable housing needs with local capacity, highlighting a growing divide on New Jersey’s approach to housing equity.
Full DCA Report : https://www.nj.gov/dca/dlps/pdf/FourthRoundCalculation_Methodology.pdf?
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