Morris Township settles affordable housing obligation at 375 units following resolution

During the Morris Township Planning Board meeting on April 7, 2025, significant discussions centered around the township's affordable housing obligations and a new development project on Ketch Road. The meeting highlighted the township's recent resolution regarding its affordable housing requirements, which have been a contentious issue in New Jersey.

The township committee announced that it successfully negotiated its fourth-round affordable housing obligation down to 375 units, a substantial reduction from the Department of Community Affairs' initial calculation of 571 units. This negotiation was facilitated through the Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program, which involved various stakeholders, including the Fair Share Housing Center. The resolution marks a notable achievement for Morris Township, as it is significantly lower than the obligations faced by many other municipalities in the state.

A key component of the township's strategy is the proposed 50-unit, 100% affordable multifamily development on Ketch Road. This project is part of a settlement agreement related to previous litigation involving the Red Bulls Arena and aims to address the township's housing needs while complying with state mandates. The board has authorized a study to determine if the Ketch Road site qualifies as an area in need of redevelopment, which is a necessary step before moving forward with the project.

The planning board emphasized the importance of public engagement in the redevelopment process. Once the area study is completed, a public hearing will be held to discuss the findings and gather community input. This process is crucial for ensuring transparency and addressing any concerns from residents regarding the development.

Looking ahead, the township is required to adopt a housing element fair share plan by June 30, 2025, to comply with state regulations. This plan will outline how the township intends to meet its affordable housing obligations over the next decade. The board anticipates that the Phillips Price firm will provide recommendations to facilitate this process.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Morris Township Planning Board meeting reflect a proactive approach to addressing affordable housing challenges while balancing community needs and regulatory requirements. The successful negotiation of housing obligations and the planned development on Ketch Road are steps toward fulfilling the township's commitment to providing affordable housing options for its residents. The upcoming months will be critical as the township works to finalize its housing plan and engage with the community on these important issues.