52:27D-329.6 Findings, declarations relative to housing rehabilitation and assistance.

12. The Legislature finds and declares that:

a. The transfer of a portion of the fair share obligations among municipalities has proven to not be a viable method of ensuring that an adequate supply and variety of housing choices are provided in municipalities experiencing growth. Therefore, the use of a regional contribution agreement shall no longer be permitted under P.L.1985, c.222 (C.52:27D-301 et al.).

b. Although the elimination of the regional contribution agreement as a tool for the production of affordable housing pursuant to P.L.1985, c.222 (C.52:27D-301 et al.), will impact on some proposed agreements awaiting approval, it is for a public purpose and for the public good that such contracts be declared void for the current and future housing obligation rounds.

c. There is a need to assist municipalities in the rehabilitation of housing for occupancy by low and moderate income households. To this end, a specific program for housing rehabilitation by municipalities would best serve this need. It is the intent of the Legislature that this program, as well as funds earmarked for the purposes of the program, will be utilized, especially in urban areas which were the main recipients of regional contribution agreements, to continue to upgrade housing stock in order to provide a wide variety and choice of housing for persons living in those areas.

d. There is also a need to provide funding to municipalities to create additional incentives and assistance for the production of safe, decent, and affordable rental and other housing.

L.2008, c.46, s.12.