New Jersey Senate Bill S3311

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/7/22
• Refer: 11/7/22

Caption

Appropriates $4 million to DEP for local cost share of certain beach replenishment project in Ocean County.

Impact

The bill plays a crucial role in addressing local financial challenges as municipalities are burdened with a substantial nonfederal cost share of approximately $7.5 million for the project. Many local budgets may find it challenging to afford this without state intervention. The proposed funding aims to alleviate some of this burden, thereby enabling communities to participate in federal funding mechanisms and adopt effective coastal protection measures. This support is essential for long-term ecological and economic sustainability for the affected areas.

Summary

Senate Bill 3311 proposes the appropriation of $4 million from the New Jersey General Fund specifically to assist with the local cost share of a beach replenishment project on the Barnegat Peninsula in Ocean County. This initiative is to support a project organized by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), which aims to protect coastal areas from erosion and flooding. The legislation acknowledges the severe beach erosion experienced by municipalities in the area, necessitating federal involvement to maintain shoreline protection, which is expected to begin in late 2022 or early 2023.

Contention

While this bill is largely viewed as a necessary financial assistance measure for local governments dealing with the ramifications of beach erosion, there may be underlying concerns regarding the adequacy and effectiveness of funding levels in relation to the total costs involved. Stakeholders could also debate the balance between federal, state, and local responsibilities in managing public infrastructure improvements. Ensuring equitable distributions of funds and maintaining the project's effectiveness are likely to be points of scrutiny as the bill moves forward.