Requires COAH to credit municipalities with units against fair share affordable housing obligation for certain types of housing; provides certain types of affordable housing units will be credited as two units.
The legislation is expected to have a significant impact on state housing laws, particularly in how municipalities calculate and fulfill their affordable housing obligations. By offering credits for units categorized as community residences, the bill seeks to incentivize local governments to promote housing options that cater to vulnerable populations. Furthermore, it stipulates that certain affordable housing units, especially those designated for very low-income households, will be credited as two units, thereby easing the housing pressure on municipalities struggling to meet state mandates.
Senate Bill S821, introduced by Senator Anthony M. Bucco, aims to amend the existing affordable housing regulations in New Jersey under P.L.1985, c.222. The essential focus of the bill is to require the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) to provide municipalities with credits against their fair share affordable housing obligations for specific types of housing, particularly those that fall under community residences. Notably, the bill states that each bedroom in such residences would count towards a municipality's obligations as one unit, potentially encouraging the development of more shared living environments for individuals with special needs.
While the bill presents clear advantages in potentially increasing the availability of affordable housing, it is not without contention. Critics may argue that this could lead to a focus on quantity over quality, whereby municipalities might prioritize meeting quota requirements rather than ensuring that the housing provided is indeed suitable and affordable for all qualifying individuals. There is also concern regarding the implications this has on local land use and zoning regulations, which could be altered to accommodate the increased density that the bill encourages.
Additionally, S821 includes provisions that allow municipalities to partner with developers to provide a preference for affordable housing to low to moderate income veterans, further enhancing support for this demographic. This segment of the bill aims to ensure that veterans, particularly those who have served during critical periods, receive equitable access to affordable housing resources, reflecting an ongoing commitment to support those who have served the country.