Highland Park council introduces ordinance to implement fourth round of affordable housing

The Highland Park Borough Council introduced Ordinance No. 26-2127 on first reading, a measure amending Chapter 86 (Fair Share Affordable Housing) to implement the borough’s fourth round of affordable housing obligations under the Fair Housing Act of 1985, as amended. The clerk read the ordinance title into the record and the council voted to set a public hearing for May 19, 2026.

The ordinance was presented by the administration committee for consideration on first reading. The clerk summarized the measure as “an ordinance amending chapter 86 entitled fair share affordable housing to implement the 4th round of affordable housing in accordance with the Fair Housing Act of 1985 as amended.” Matt Hale moved to introduce the ordinance on first reading and Phil George seconded the motion; the council carried the motion on a roll call vote.

Why it matters: implementing a fair-share affordable housing program carries planning, zoning and funding implications for the borough and determines the timeline for a public hearing where residents can comment. The council set the public hearing for May 19, 2026; no substantive debate or amendments were recorded during the introduction.

Next steps: the ordinance will return for a public hearing and possible adoption following the hearing on May 19, 2026. Members of the public who wish to comment will have an opportunity at that hearing.