Submitted by Evamarie Hode
Minimizing the impact of Trenton’s burdensome affordable housing mandate on Warren Township’s neighborhoods and schools is a top priority for the Warren Township Committee.
Mayor Victor Sordillo has reached out to newly elected Board of Education President David Breeze and to Superintendent Matthew Mingle and expressed the Township Committee’s commitment to serving the needs of the Warren School community.
“We will continue to follow the rules, as they pertain to the state affordable housing mandate,” said Mayor Sordillo. “But we will not compromise our commitment to protecting our neighborhoods and remaining an inclusive community.”
While other municipalities have ignored the looming affordable housing ruling, the Township Committee has been proactive in responsibly integrating affordable housing units into developments compatible with the Warren Township Master Plan. The Township Committee is working with community leaders, developers, and stakeholders to ensure the mandate will be adhered to in a responsible manner that maintains Warren Township’s character. Specifically, the Township has engaged with District representatives to ensure that our students’ needs are considered prominently during this process, Mayor Sordillo said. As its work continues, the Township Committee will prioritize the needs of school officials and evaluate the effect of growth on our school population and governance.
Deputy Mayor Gary DiNardo said, “We understand the concerns residents have about the development of affordable housing — we live here, send our children to schools here and run businesses here in town, too. We will make sure that the implementation allows us to maintain the desirability and attractiveness that drew many of us to Warren Township.” The Township Committee is committed to communicating with Township residents as the process continues and more information is available.
