Maurice River adopts resolution committing to DCA Round 4 fair‑share numbers and directs attorney to file for declaratory relief

Maurice River Township’s Committee on Jan. 16 adopted Resolution No. 39-2025, which records the township’s acceptance of the Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) Round 4 fair-share estimates—zero units present need and eight units prospective need for the 2025–2035 round—while reserving the township’s right to pursue vacant-land and durational adjustments and to respond to related court developments.

The resolution directs the municipal attorney to file a declaratory judgment in Cumberland County within 48 hours of adoption (or by Feb. 3, 2025, whichever is sooner) to seek certification of compliance under the Amended Fair Housing Act (P.L. 2024, c.2). The resolution also instructs the attorney to attach the municipal resolution as an exhibit to the filing and to proceed as appropriate if a third party challenges the calculations.

The resolution recounts the DCA report dated Oct. 18, 2024 and notes the township’s intent to rely on COAH regulatory mechanisms where applicable. It also reserves the township’s rights to adjust its position pending court rulings such as the Montvale case referenced in the resolution.

Action on the resolution occurred as part of the consent agenda adopted by motion; the committee’s consent vote was unanimous.

Next steps: the township’s attorney is to file for declaratory relief in Cumberland County within the resolution’s timeframe; the committee’s commitment is subject to any adjustments or court rulings that may alter obligations.