New Jersey Assembly Bill A716

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Authorizes municipal dredging of lagoon community waterways and levying of special assessment or issuing of bonds to finance such dredging.

Impact

The bill allows municipalities to finance dredging activities by levying special assessments on local property owners who benefit from the dredging services, or by issuing bonds intended for capital improvements. This approach is significant as it places the financial responsibility for dredging not solely on the municipality's budget, but shifts a portion of it to local property owners who are directly served by the waterways. The inclusion of this financing mechanism suggests a shift towards more localized funding models for community infrastructure projects.

Summary

Assembly Bill A716 aims to authorize municipalities in New Jersey to undertake dredging operations in lagoon communities—areas where waterways function as primary access routes for residential developments. This legislation is designed to ensure that these waterways are maintained properly, facilitating boat transportation to and from these communities. The bill outlines a framework for municipalities to engage certified contractors to perform both restorative and maintenance dredging on waterways that are either manmade or naturally occurring.

Contention

Potential points of contention may arise regarding equity and fairness in levying assessments on property owners, particularly those who may disagree with the need for dredging or the associated costs. Property owners may voice concerns about the financial burdens imposed by special assessments, especially if the benefits of dredging are perceived as unequal among community members. As such, this bill may lead to discussions about balancing municipal responsibilities and property owner interests within lagoon communities.