Development News for Pemberton, New Jersey

Resident Demands Action on Housing Affordability and Investor Impact in Sunbury Village

Susan Sacco expressed concerns about housing affordability in Sunbury Village, noting significant rent increases (approximately 25% annually) since her move. She highlighted that investors are buying properties, minimally improving them, and reselling at much higher prices, pricing out long-term residents, seniors on fixed incomes, and young families. Sacco advocated for rent stabilization and protection for residents facing dramatic increases. She questioned what the township plans to do to help renters become homeowners, preserve affordable housing, address the growing number of investor properties, and ensure opportunities for current residents, particularly in light of affordable housing obligations. She also mentioned plans to organize a Sunbury Village Residents Association.

Council Discusses Funding for Infrastructure Projects, Including Roadwork and Park Upgrades

Several resolutions related to funding and projects were discussed. Resolution 176-2026 involves a significant contract amount of $1,127,000 for a project that has been ongoing since 2020, funded by a bond ordinance. The project experienced delays and was re-bid after additional DEP funds were secured through iBank. Resolution 178-2026, concerning playground equipment for Blueberry Manor, is funded through a bond ordinance from 2024, part of an annual park improvement plan. Resolution 182-2026 is a change order for South Lake Shore Drive phases three and four, covering extra drainage work within the existing grant amount. Rosemary Flaherty mentioned that grant money is the preferred funding method, highlighting a successful $1.1 million TASA grant awarded for 2025 improvements, with projects set to occur simultaneously with a new shopping center construction. The Main Street USA grant will also facilitate improvements.

Council Addresses Delays and Prioritization of Park Improvement Projects

Councilman Dewey and others discussed the delayed progress on park projects, specifically Pole Bridge and Blueberry Manor. Dewey expressed frustration with the prolonged timelines, noting Pole Bridge has been in progress for over five years and children lack a place to play. He believes Pole Bridge should be completed before Blueberry Manor. It was clarified that playground equipment for Blueberry Manor has been approved and is moving ahead, and that Pole Bridge's equipment has already been ordered. The current step for Pole Bridge involves site work, with a concept plan drafted. The decision was made that Pole Bridge would be completed before Blueberry Manor. Questions were also raised about the installation process and timeline, with Public Works expected to supply labor.

Clarification on Senator-Led Town Hall Meeting Regarding School Funding

During public comment, concerns were raised about a town hall meeting at Presidential Lakes. Joe Fallon, a resident, questioned if information from the meeting could be shared with the public, noting the invitation mentioned 'community' multiple times and he didn't believe it was a secret meeting. He also asked if school board members were invited given the subject matter. Councilman Ward clarified that the meeting was organized by Senator Tyver's office to discuss the Hornets bill aimed at recapturing S2 money for the school system, and that the township had no involvement in its organization. He explained the bill's purpose related to tax deficiencies and the Pinelands unique stance. Additionally, Councilman Dewey discussed the town hall meeting, stating it was a Senator Tyver meeting, not a council or township meeting, and he was only invited.