Editor’s Note
On the horizon

Two key asset classes in New Jersey have become inextricably linked in the last two to three years, as local governments increasingly turn to their aging office stock to fill the state’s housing deficit. Some have done so proactively, but others are acting out of necessity as they race to comply with New Jersey’s updated affordable housing law. That’s causing some market leaders to wonder if municipalities will face “multifamily fatigue” after the latest round of mandates and the corresponding land use planning, which has played out across the state over the past 12 months.

Government & Public Policy
Sherrill retains Suárez as Department of Community Affairs commissioner

Jacquelyn Suárez, the head of the state’s Department of Community Affairs, will stay on in the role when Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill takes office in less than three weeks.

Residential & Mixed Use
A new solution: Supportive housing advocates, developers hope state law will spark major expansion of special needs units

There’s not enough supportive housing in New Jersey, according to advocates and industry experts, and they hope incentives in the state’s revamped affordable housing rules will help expand the market.

Government & Public Policy
Tantleff sworn in for second term as NJBA chair, joining six fellow board members

The New Jersey Builders Association has installed Debra Tantleff as its chair for a second term, as it prepares for the rollout of the state’s new affordable housing law and other key policies.

Government & Public Policy
Towns say they’ll appeal after judge rejects bid to halt state’s new affordable housing law

A coalition of two dozen towns vowed to appeal after a judge denied its request to pause the rollout of New Jersey’s new affordable housing law, in a move that allows state officials to proceed even as the court prepares for additional arguments in the case.

Government & Public Policy
Superior Court sets key date for arguments on new N.J. affordable housing obligations

A state Superior Court judge has set a date for oral arguments on whether to halt adoption of new affordable housing obligations for New Jersey’s 564 municipalities, following a legal challenge by more than 20 towns to recent guidelines from the Department of Community Affairs.

Government & Public Policy
Bill to create new affordable housing framework clears state Senate, heads to Murphy’s desk

The next chapter of affordable housing in New Jersey is now in Gov. Phil Murphy’s hands, following the state Senate’s passage of a bill to revamp how officials calculate and enforce each town’s obligations under the landmark Mount Laurel doctrine.

Residential & Mixed Use
Hoboken-based Rockabill adds veteran multifamily developer as principal

Rockabill, a development partner and consultant to affordable, supportive and transitional housing owners, has added a multifamily industry veteran to its executive team.

Top News
Housing supply, affordability back in focus as Atlantic Builders Convention returns

The New Jersey Builders Association is set to welcome thousands of homebuilders, service providers and vendors to Atlantic City from Oct. 11 to 13 for the Atlantic Builders Convention, the largest building industry tradeshow in the Northeast, after an 18-month hiatus.

Government & Public Policy
Murphy halts all ‘non-essential’ construction in N.J., limiting residential and commercial activity

Gov. Phil Murphy on Wednesday tightened restrictions on the types of construction allowed under the state’s social distancing policies, as New Jersey continues its battle against the spread of COVID-19.