The Brian Lehrer Show 30 Issues in 30 Days: Affordable Housing in New Jersey
Sep 25, 2025
Mike Hayes, a WNYC/Gothamist reporter and author, dives into New Jersey's affordable housing crisis, rooted in the Mount Laurel Doctrine. He discusses the complexities of mandated housing units and the ongoing legal battles that ensue. Hayes highlights the state's ambitious goal of 84,000 new units, contrasting it with actual housing needs. The podcast also explores local zoning conflicts, political stances of gubernatorial candidates on housing, and how policy changes could impact renters and homeownership in the state.
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Mount Laurel's Enduring Requirement
- The Mount Laurel doctrine requires every NJ town to contribute its fair share of affordable housing since the 1970s.
- The law aimed to prevent exclusionary zoning and keep low-income families from being shut out of wealthier towns.
State Target Vs. Actual Need
- New Jersey aims to plan for about 84,000 new affordable units by 2035 based on DCA guidance.
- That target varies by municipality and won't fully meet the estimated 200,000-unit shortfall for lowest-income residents.
Local Fight Over Development
- Susan from Morristown described fighting a developer building on historic, sloped land near Jockey Hollow.
- The town initially won but later conceded to fewer units after the developer sued, leaving residents frustrated.
