Council opts into Garden State CPACE program; residents ask who benefits and whether public housing can use funds

The City Council on Dec. 17 voted to adopt an ordinance opting Newark into the Garden State Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE) program. Allison Ladd, director of economic and housing development, explained CPACE allows property owners to access long‑term financing for energy efficiency, renewable energy and resilience improvements and that municipalities adopt an ordinance to participate.

Public speakers sought clarity on eligibility and local benefit. Council members and residents asked whether small residential properties or single‑family homeowners could apply; the administration replied that CPACE typically targets income‑producing buildings and multifamily properties (more than five units) and that single‑family homes are generally not eligible except in limited or aggregated programs. Deputy mayor Ladd said public‑housing portfolios and multifamily housing could be considered for projects if applications meet the program’s cost‑eligibility rules and if developers or authorities apply.

Several commenters urged the administration to ensure CPACE investments do not accelerate displacement or gentrification, and suggested tying CPACE financing to local hiring or to preservation and repair of existing affordable housing. The council recorded the ordinance vote after the deputy mayor explained application processes and eligibility criteria and noted the administration will provide more information to the public about how to apply.