13:8-49. Inclusion of river in system; determination of suitability; hearings; designation; notice

In order to determine the suitability of any river for inclusion in the system, the department shall:

a. Complete the delineation of the flood hazard area for such river as required by section 3 of P.L.1962, c. 19 (C. 58:16A-52).

b. Conduct such studies as are necessary in order to prepare a report containing the following information concerning the proposed river area: a map portraying the location and boundaries of such area; a summary of the current and potential ownership and uses of such lands; a discussion of the environmental and economic impact upon local communities and the State which would result from the inclusion of such area in the system; a recommendation concerning the proper classification and use of such proposed river area; and, an estimation of the cost which would be incurred by the State in designating such area as a component of the system. Such report shall be made available to the Assembly Agriculture and Environment Committee, the Senate Energy and Environment Committee and to the public at least 30 days prior to the public hearing required by this section.

c. Conduct a public hearing in a location convenient to all interested parties at least 30 days prior to designating any river area as a component of the system. Public notices of such hearings shall be published in at least two newspapers circulating within the affected counties not less than 3 weeks prior to the hearings. At least 2 weeks prior to the date set for such hearing, a copy of the public notice shall be sent by certified mail to each owner having a recorded interest in the lands within the proposed river area as shown in the municipal tax office wherein such land is located. Such notice shall be mailed to the address shown in the records of the municipal tax office. Following any such public hearing, the commissioner shall consider the testimony presented thereat and evaluate any reasonable alternative to, or revision of, the designation of such proposed river area.

d. Subsequent to the fulfillment of the above requirements, the commissioner may designate such river area as a component of the system. Upon such designation, the commissioner shall cause notice thereof, including a map portraying the boundaries of the river area, to be published in the New Jersey Register.

L.1977, c. 236, s. 5, eff. Sept. 28, 1977.