Extension Given For Toms River’s Affordable Housing Plan

Key points

• Superior Court judge extended Toms River's deadline for completing an affordable housing plan
• August 26 hearing will determine if the township retains control over residential development
• The extension preserves Toms River's protection from builder's remedy lawsuits
• Meeting state affordable housing obligations is essential to maintaining local development control
• Toms River has one final opportunity to complete the revised plan

FAQ

What is a builder's remedy lawsuit?

A builder's remedy lawsuit allows developers to challenge local zoning restrictions if a municipality fails to provide adequate affordable housing. Without protection from these lawsuits, developers can bypass local planning and build as they propose.

Why is the August 26 hearing important for Toms River?

The hearing will determine whether Toms River successfully completed its affordable housing plan. If approved, the township retains control over future residential development. If not, the township could lose protection from builder's remedy lawsuits.

What does an affordable housing plan require?

An affordable housing plan typically requires municipalities to provide a realistic opportunity for the development of a fair share of the region's affordable housing needs, as determined by state law and court decisions.