Jackson council introduces $795,000 purchase of 277 Grottown Road for possible open space

The Jackson Township Council on June 23 introduced Ordinance 202623, authorizing purchase of Lot 4, Block 19501 (277 Grottown Road) for $795,000. The parcel, about 3.22 acres in the RG2 zone, was described by council members as buildable under current zoning but intended for preservation if the purchase proceeds.

Council President Bernstein said the administration and his office engaged in negotiations and that the property is "a completely clean buildable lot" and could support between six and eight homes under zoning, though the council discussed leaving it as open space. Bernstein noted there is no water and sewer currently on the lot, but nearby approved developments could extend those services.

Council members debated next steps. Councilman Pollock said he was torn and sought input from the Open Space Committee before final action; he said he would abstain on the first reading vote but would like a committee review. Council Vice President Paul Mary and other members said they favored preserving the parcel and suggested removing the existing house and planting trees or adding a walking trail rather than allowing development.

Attorney comments during the meeting clarified that purchases and property decisions rest with the governing body under state law and that advisory committees, including the Open Space Committee, cannot exercise binding authority over acquisition decisions.

The ordinance passed first reading and was scheduled for public hearing at a later meeting; council members said they would resend materials to the Open Space Committee for review before a final vote.