New Jersey Assembly Bill A5337

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/23/23
• Refer: 3/23/23

Caption

Establishes additional municipal review processes and procedures related to development of certain large warehouses; requires certain real property revaluations and reassessments.

Impact

The implications of A5337 are significant, as it seeks to ensure that local regulations align with broader state guidelines for large warehouse constructions. Specifically, the bill introduces a requirement for municipalities to reassess their development regulations in light of these guidelines. If a municipality has not conducted a revaluation or reassessment of real property within 60 months prior to the approval of a large warehouse project, it will be required to perform one within 24 months of granting a certificate of occupancy. This revaluation aims to ensure that property assessments reflect the new development and maintain equity in taxation.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5337 establishes new municipal review processes associated with the development of large warehouses in New Jersey. The bill mandates that prior to approving a development application for a large warehouse, the local planning board must undertake a special reexamination of the municipality's master plan and development regulations to incorporate state guidelines. This report must be prepared and adopted by resolution and delivered to the municipal governing body within 90 days of receiving an application. If the master plan has been updated within the last 12 months, this requirement may be waived; otherwise, the board must consider recent variances granted in that time frame.

Contention

Discussion surrounding A5337 has highlighted various points of contention. Proponents argue that the bill will streamline the development process and enhance planning accuracy, thus facilitating better oversight of large warehouses that are increasingly prevalent. However, opponents express concerns about the potential bureaucratic hurdles imposed by the requirement for special reviews, worrying it could delay essential infrastructure projects. There is also apprehension regarding the balance between state mandates and local control, particularly regarding the flexibility municipalities have in tailoring development policies to their unique contexts.