Bucco Bill Increasing Notification Requirements for Land Development Gaining Support

With growing bipartisan support, Senator Anthony M. Bucco is hopeful legislative leadership will move forward with his bill to help residents keep up to date with potential real estate development in their communities.

The measure (S-2435) sponsored by Bucco (R-25) and Senator Joe Cryan (D-20), would protect New Jerseyans by extending the time required for public notice of land use applications to 21 days from the current 10.

"Too often, entire neighborhoods are altered forever by large developments that effect traffic patterns, environmental conditions, and the quality of life, and these changes are approved before residents even know what hit them," Senator Bucco said. "Ten days isn't enough time for families to organize, consider the ramifications, and respond in any capacity.

"People deserve adequate notice to participate in the process. This legislation would ensure those who will be most impacted by projects won't be blindsided and can have their voices heard," continued Bucco.

The Township of Morris, on May 18, adopted a resolution supporting S-2435 and urging elected representatives in the State Senate to support its passage.

Currently, developers are required to provide written notice of a public hearing concerning applications for property development at least 10 days prior to the scheduled public hearing to owners of real property within 200 feet in all directions.

"People have a right to know what's going on in their own neighborhoods," said Senator Cryan (D-Union). "By increasing the public notice period from 10 days to 21 days, residents and local entities will have a more adequate opportunity to participate in the process."

The Morris Township resolution noted that the New Jersey League of Municipalities voted in 2019 "to support and encourage the introduction of a state bill … to require applicants to send written notice of a public hearing postmarked at least 21 days prior to the scheduled public hearing."

"No one deserves to be kept in the dark when it comes to development projects that have the potential to drastically impact their daily lives," said Morris Township Mayor Mark Gyorfy. "Providing greater clarity to residents in advance of pending development hearings will empower communities to better-shape what the future holds for their towns."

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