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Clark Township council adopts resolutions opposing offshore wind and joining affordable‑housing litigation, approves grants and routine contracts
Summary
The Clark Township Council on July 15 unanimously approved a packet of resolutions that included opposing New Jersey’s industrial offshore wind project and authorizing participation in litigation over the state’s affordable‑housing mandates; the body also approved grants, contract renewals and other routine items.
The Clark Township Council unanimously adopted a series of resolutions on July 15 that included an official opposition to New Jersey’s proposed industrial offshore wind project and authorization to join litigation challenging the state’s affordable‑housing mandates.
The council voted to approve a resolution opposing the industrial offshore wind project after members and municipal counsel raised concerns that were also summarized in a two‑and‑a‑half–page resolution posted on the township website. The resolution, as discussed at the meeting, cited anticipated higher electricity costs billed to residents and businesses, potential harm to marine wildlife, risks related to decommissioning turbines, and possible negative effects on tourism and commercial fishing. Council members recorded unanimous “yes” votes in the roll call.
Separately, the council authorized the township to participate in litigation addressing the constitutionality or validity of New Jersey’s affordable‑housing mandates. Municipal counsel advised the council that about 60 other municipalities are pursuing similar actions and that the competitive due‑diligence work by outside counsel is expected to cost roughly $10,000 this year and $10,000 next year. Council members said they aim to seek a more even distribution of housing obligations across communities rather than reducing the number of required units outright. The resolution passed by roll call.
Other approved items included:
- Introduction of Ordinance 24‑12 to add stop signs at Coral/Gloria/Harding‑area intersections; the public hearing is scheduled for Aug. 19 and the ordinance was introduced by motion and second.
- Authorization to seek a preliminary investigation by the township planning board into whether parts of the AMP site and a former bank parcel qualify as an area in need of condemnation redevelopment under NJSA 40A:12A‑5; the mayor described the properties as long‑standing blight and urged the planning board to proceed.
- Renewal of the township’s affordable‑housing administrative services contract with CGP&H for up to $36,600 to ensure program administration and compliance.
- Acceptance of a special item of revenue for the Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund in the amount of $8,669.16 and authorization of a modest maintenance services agreement for the police department’s ductless HVAC units in the amount of $1,292.
- Adoption of a consent agenda covering a VA‑directed 100% property tax exemption adjustment, a duplicate tax‑sale certificate issuance, and refunds totaling $3,921.98 (sewer and tax overpayments).
Clerk roll calls recorded all council members voting in favor of the listed motions. The council president encouraged residents to read full texts of ordinances and resolutions posted at www.ourclark.com under Agendas & Resolutions.
What’s next: Ordinance 24‑12 was introduced and will return for public hearing on Aug. 19. The affordable‑housing litigation participation will involve outside counsel and an initial funding commitment; the planning‑board preliminary investigation will proceed as authorized.
