Politics & Government
What Happens With 750 Walnut? Cranford Mayor Speaks Out
Patrick Giblin says there may be appeals or litigation in the future.
CRANFORD, NJ - More than a year of testimony, outcry and applications came to an end when the Cranford Planning Board rejected a request rezone 750 Walnut Ave. and the Township Committee accepted that decision. But Mayor Patrick Giblin said that might not be the end of it.
The redevelopment has been referred to as the dragon at Cranford's gates, the monstrosity and a sign of the times, but whatever it is called, the Hartz Mountain Industries applied to build 905 apartment units on the property, which is currently a commercial zone.
Giblin listed the possible next steps on social media:
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- Applicant (Hartz Mountain) may appeal this decision from the Township Committee. They would have to appeal within 45 days.
- Affordable Housing - the judgment of repose (immunity from a Mt. Laurel /builder’s remedy lawsuit) has been extended to Oct. 25.
Giblin also addressed if Hartz Mountain will appeal the decision or file a builders remedy lawsuit, i.e. sue the Township of Cranford? Nothing is certain, but there are indications that they may, Giblin noted:
- Keith Loughlin, an attorney from Hill Wallack, spoke at Tuesday’s meeting on behalf of his client Hartz Mountain. Loughlin previously served as Chief of Staff to Assemblyman Bramnick.
- Hartz Mountain has repeatedly opposed the extension of immunity in Court.
- Hartz and their law firm sent a letter opposing Tuesday’s resolution.
Giblin said that the Township of Cranford continues active negotiations with Fair Share Housing regarding the Affordable Housing Plan and that the next step is a status conference with the Court on Oct. 2.
Find out what's happening in Cranfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
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