Monroe Township planning board adopts housing element, seeks filing by June 30 to gain builder's‑remedy immunity

The Monroe Township Planning Board voted to adopt the township’s housing element and fair share plan and approved a resolution memorializing the adoption for filing, actions the board said are required to seek immunity from builder’s‑remedy lawsuits if filed by June 30.

The plan, prepared by licensed planner Christine Bell, documents Monroe’s housing inventory, projections and constraints and proposes a mix of existing credits and new development to meet the state’s fourth‑round obligation. “In order to be granted immunity from builder’s remedy lawsuits, the plan needs to be adopted by June 30, so that is why we are here tonight,” Christine Bell said.

The nut graf: The plan addresses a state‑calculated prospective need for 460 affordable units for the fourth round and a present‑need rehabilitation obligation of 76 units. It relies largely on existing affordable units and bonus credits and proposes two new projects — a 30‑unit, 100% affordable development on the township‑owned former Meadowview Care Center site and a combined inclusionary project with a 30% affordable set‑aside —…