Spring Lake Heights introduces two ordinances to meet affordable-housing obligations

The Spring Lake Heights Borough Council on Feb. 17 introduced two ordinances intended to advance the borough’s affordable-housing obligations.

Ordinance 2026-02 would amend Chapter 22, Article VI (Affordable Housing); Ordinance 2026-03 would amend zoning rules in Chapter 22 by creating an AH-5 zoning district. Both measures were introduced on motions by Councilman John Casagrande. The motion to introduce Ordinance 2026-02 was seconded by Councilman Dayton Lonsdale; the motion to introduce Ordinance 2026-03 was seconded by Councilwoman Sara King. Each introduction passed by a unanimous vote of the five members present (Councilman William Graetz was absent).

The introductions were procedural steps that place the measures on the agenda for a public hearing and final vote. The council set public hearings for both ordinances on Monday, March 2, 2026, at which the council may receive public comment and determine whether to adopt, amend or withdraw the measures.

Why it matters: the ordinances are described in the meeting minutes as actions taken “in furtherance of the Borough’s 4th round affordable housing obligation,” meaning they are part of the municipal process for satisfying state-mandated planning or settlement requirements related to affordable housing. The introductions do not enact changes; those would require a subsequent public hearing and formal adoption vote.

Next steps: the council will hold the public hearings on March 2, 2026. Interested residents should consult the borough clerk’s office for the hearing agenda and any staff reports or ordinance drafts submitted for that meeting.