The Belmar Planning Board has taken a major step toward fulfilling New Jersey’s affordable housing obligations by approving a resolution that adopts the borough’s updated third-round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan (HEFSP). The approval, made during a board meeting on Monday night, positions Belmar to come into compliance with state mandates pending court approval.

Fulfilling State Housing Mandates

According to Christine Bell, the borough planner, all New Jersey municipalities are legally required to include a housing element in their master plans under the state’s Municipal Land Use Law and the Fair Housing Act. This latest move by Belmar addresses requirements for the third round of affordable housing obligations, which extends through early 2025.

A Little Late, But Getting Things Done

Bell acknowledged that the borough is slightly behind schedule but emphasized the importance of progress. “So we’re a little bit late, but we’re getting things done,” she said during the meeting, recognizing the importance of the planning board’s resolution as part of the broader effort to bring the borough into compliance.

Part of a Broader Legal Settlement

The resolution follows a recent settlement agreement with the Fair Share Housing Center. On May 13, Belmar Borough Council unanimously approved the agreement and submitted it to the state Superior Court. This agreement is part of the borough’s declaratory judgment (DJ) action, a legal process used to resolve affordable housing compliance matters.

Detailed Housing Plan Submitted

As part of the settlement, Belmar’s planning consultant, Leon S. Avakian Inc., prepared the updated HEFSP in April 2025. The document outlines specific sites and strategies that the borough intends to use to meet its affordable housing requirements. It focuses on providing opportunities for very low-, low-, and moderate-income households to find suitable housing within the borough.

Aligned with the Master Plan

The planning board’s resolution emphasizes that the new HEFSP aligns with the borough’s existing master plan. The board believes that implementing the plan supports the public interest, promotes general welfare, and ensures the health and safety of Belmar’s residents.

Court Hearing Set for June

Frances McManimon, the borough’s redevelopment attorney, noted that while the planning board and council have approved the plan and settlement, final approval rests with the court. A fairness and compliance hearing for the DJ action is scheduled for June 27, where the court will review all submitted agreements and the HEFSP to determine if Belmar meets its legal obligations.

Pathway to Affordable Housing Stability

This approval is an important step in Belmar’s long-term strategy to meet affordable housing needs and legal requirements. Once the court grants its approval, the borough will be officially in compliance with the third round of New Jersey’s affordable housing rules, securing legal and planning stability through at least early 2025.