New Jersey Assembly Bill A5295

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/16/23
• Refer: 3/16/23

Caption

Authorizes counties and certain boards to acquire unpreserved lands in agricultural development areas for use by agricultural support businesses, and to sell or lease county-owned lands in such areas to such businesses at reduced price.

Impact

The introduction of A5295 is likely to streamline the process through which counties can support local agriculture by facilitating access to necessary land resources. By establishing a clear pathway for the acquisition of agricultural support lands, the bill not only encourages growth within the agricultural sector but also aims to maintain the long-term sustainability of agricultural operations. Moreover, it includes provisions that help to protect the interests of the county, such as reverting ownership back to the county upon any violations of use restrictions. This ensures that land is utilized appropriately, aligning with broader agricultural goals.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5295 aims to empower counties in New Jersey to acquire unpreserved lands located in agricultural development areas for the purpose of supporting agricultural businesses. The bill allows county governing bodies and specific boards to purchase or lease these lands at reduced costs. Such agricultural support businesses are classified as enterprises that provide equipment, supplies, or services necessary for sustaining the agricultural community, thereby directly impacting agricultural viability. The bill stipulates that this acquisition process should not involve eminent domain or condemnation but should instead proceed through methods like purchase, gift, or exchange authorized by county resolutions.

Contention

As with many legislative initiatives that modify land use regulations, A5295 may face opposition from various stakeholders who are concerned about the implications of greater county control over land transactions. Some may argue that while the bill aims to boost agricultural support, it could inadvertently undermine local autonomy or lead to conflicts over land use priorities. Stakeholder debates will likely focus on how the bill balances the needs of agricultural businesses with the rights and interests of local communities, particularly in areas where land use has been traditionally managed at the local level.