New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5565

Introduced
6/5/23  
Refer
6/5/23  
Report Pass
11/30/23  
Engrossed
12/21/23  
Refer
12/28/23  
Report Pass
1/4/24  
Enrolled
1/8/24  
Chaptered
1/16/24  

Caption

Provides that 10-year term does not apply to lease of certain municipal properties unless they are waterfront properties or related to waterfront concessions.

Impact

The ramifications of A5565 are considerable, especially for municipalities bordering the Atlantic Ocean, as it grants them greater flexibility in managing leases for non-waterfront properties. This extended lease term allows municipalities to enter into longer agreements that could foster more stability and investment in public facilities and recreational opportunities that do not necessitate a waterfront proximity. Local governments may leverage these extended terms to encourage partnerships with private entities, enhancing community services and public amenities over a longer operational timeframe.

Summary

Assembly Bill 5565 introduces a significant amendment to the lease terms of certain municipal properties in New Jersey. As per the bill's provisions, the 10-year cap on lease terms traditionally applied to public parks and recreational areas will now exclusively pertain to waterfront properties or those relevant to waterfront concessions. Properties that do not fall under these categories can be leased for up to 25 years, altering the existing framework for municipal leases. This change reflects a nuanced approach to property management by addressing different types of municipal lands and their usability for various civic engagements.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face contention regarding the equitable impact on community resources and planning. Opponents might argue that extended leases could lead to reduced access to public lands or facilities that may be better suited for short-term community use. Additionally, there may be concerns over the preservation of municipal land and its appropriate use, especially if it prioritizes commercial interests at the expense of public needs. Stakeholders could express apprehension that these longer lease periods could indirectly favor privatization of public spaces.

Additional_notes

The bill aligns with broader legislative trends aimed at optimizing local governance. By allowing longer lease terms for non-waterfront properties, New Jersey is reinforcing the autonomy of municipalities to respond effectively to local demands while also balancing the potential risks of property management decisions that could shift civic resources away from the public domain.

Companion Bills

NJ S3971

Same As Provides that 10-year term does not apply to lease of certain municipal properties unless they are waterfront properties or related to waterfront concessions.

Previously Filed As

NJ A683

Provides that 10-year term does not apply to lease of certain municipal properties unless they are waterfront properties or related to waterfront concessions.

NJ S3971

Provides that 10-year term does not apply to lease of certain municipal properties unless they are waterfront properties or related to waterfront concessions.

NJ SB1968

Working Waterfronts Act of 2025

NJ SB3785

Working Waterfronts Act of 2024

NJ A614

Permits municipality to use proceeds of beach access fees for areas near beach facilities that are significantly affected by beach tourism; requires municipality to provide explanation of expenditures on website.

NJ A644

Permits municipality to use proceeds of beach access fees for areas near beach facilities that are significantly affected by beach tourism; requires municipality to provide explanation of expenditures on website.

NJ LD1625

An Act Regarding the Preservation of Working Waterfronts

NJ HB6641

Keep America’s Waterfronts Working Act

NJ HB1808

Keep America’s Waterfronts Working Act of 2025

NJ AB1191

State Lands Commission: exchange of trust lands: City of Oakland: Howard Terminal property: Oakland Waterfront Sports and Mixed-Use Project, Waterfront Access, Environmental Justice, and Revitalization Act.

Similar Bills

ME LD1625

An Act Regarding the Preservation of Working Waterfronts

PA HB762

Providing for the Waterfront Redevelopment Grant Program; establishing the Waterfront Redevelopment Fund; and imposing powers and duties on the Department of Community and Economic Development.

NJ S3971

Provides that 10-year term does not apply to lease of certain municipal properties unless they are waterfront properties or related to waterfront concessions.

NJ A683

Provides that 10-year term does not apply to lease of certain municipal properties unless they are waterfront properties or related to waterfront concessions.

ME LD531

An Act to Establish the Toddy Pond Watershed Management District

ME LD529

An Act to Establish the Alamoosook Lake Watershed Management District

ME LD2162

An Act Regarding the Current Use Valuation of Working Waterfront Property

CA AB2578

Infrastructure financing districts: City and County of San Francisco.