New Jersey Assembly Bill A185

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Permits board of chosen freeholders to establish "Sharing Resources" grant and loan program to encourage shared services and municipal consolidation.

Impact

The implementation of A185 is expected to positively impact local governance by promoting collaborative efforts among municipalities to improve efficiency and reduce costs. By enabling local units to apply for financial assistance in studying and executing shared services, the bill aims to streamline operations and avoid redundancy in municipal services. It also emphasizes the importance of cost-effectiveness, allowing the freeholder board to assess the viability of proposed shared service projects before providing funding.

Summary

Assembly Bill A185 aims to facilitate shared services and municipal consolidation in New Jersey by allowing county boards of chosen freeholders to establish a 'Sharing Resources' grant and loan program. This program is designed to provide financial resources to local units that wish to study the feasibility of entering into shared service agreements or joint meeting contracts. The allocated funds can cover studies, consultant fees, and one-time startup costs associated with initiating these shared service arrangements.

Contention

While the bill presents a framework for enhanced cooperation between municipalities, there may be concerns regarding the distribution of funds and the capacity of counties to effectively manage the grant and loan programs. Questions may arise over the eligibility criteria for funding, the financial limits imposed on aid, and how technical support will be provided to ensure that all local units can efficiently navigate the application process. Some critics might argue that the program could lead to inequities if not all counties allocate resources equally or if some municipalities face barriers in accessing the necessary expertise to apply for grants.