the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Palisades Park NJ, in a recent decision, a judge ordered the Borough of Palisades Park to create a “comprehensive fair-share housing plan” and a revised land-use ordinance within 90 days. This decision comes after six “builder’s remedy” lawsuits filed by developers who sought to increase affordable housing options in the area. Judge Christine Farrington ruled that the borough’s current zoning ordinance does not adequately support the development of affordable housing, mandating that the borough take swift action.
Background and the Need for Affordable Housing
The borough now faces specific targets for “affordable housing” to meet the region’s growing demand. According to the court, Palisades Park’s fair-share obligation includes:
- Present need: 136 units
- Gap present need (1999-2015): 146 units
- Prospective need (2015-2025): 301 units
A court-appointed adjudicator will assist the borough in drafting the fair-share plan, ensuring compliance with state guidelines. Scott J. Krumholz, an attorney representing the borough, noted that the current administration is facing the consequences of previous borough leaders’ failure to address affordable housing proactively. The borough did not join affordable housing initiatives in 2008 or 2015, leaving it vulnerable to these lawsuits.
Lawsuits Drive Momentum for Change
Fan Associates initiated the first lawsuit in January 2023, with five other developers following suit. Developers have highlighted that recent borough ordinances aimed at restricting multi-family housing were insufficiently vetted and didn’t align with current affordable housing regulations. When questioned about the borough’s lack of response to these lawsuits, Krumholz had no further comment.
Judge Farrington pointed out that the borough’s response to affordable housing obligations has been delayed, only taking action in April 2024. The borough’s motion for retroactive immunity was denied, as the court found that the lawsuits themselves spurred the necessary change.
Developers Ready to Build Affordable Units
As part of the court’s directive, properties in question—including sites owned by DRC Development Corp. and Hillcrest Builders—will be rezoned for affordable housing, pending approval for sound land use and environmental standards. The developers have expressed optimism, with Daniel Steinhagen from Beattie Padovano law firm stating that they are eager to develop high-quality, affordable housing.
Looking Ahead: Next Steps for Palisades Park
A schedule of deadlines is expected soon, outlining milestones for the borough and the court-appointed adjudicator. The borough has committed to working with the court and relevant statutes to address the fair-share housing mandate, with efforts to streamline the zoning and planning process to facilitate affordable housing development.
Tell your story #TheRidgewoodblog , #Indpendentnews, #information, #advertise, #guestpost, #affiliatemarketing,#NorthJersey, #NJ , #News, #localnews, #bergencounty, #sponsoredpost, #SponsoredContent, #contentplacement , #linkplacement, Email: Onlyonesmallvoice@gmail.com
Thank the useless Chris Christie for the tragic Builder’s Remedy and never elect a Republican governor again.