Letter To The Editor From Mayor James Kelly

The following is a letter to the editor from Mendham Township Mayor James 'Jim' Kelly

I write in response to the recent Patch article regarding proposed affordable housing developments in the Borough of Mendham and the letter sent by Mendham Township officials seeking greater clarity on potential regional impacts to the County.

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Mendham Borough agrees that a review is appropriate. I have already informed Mayor Sarah Neibart that such a review should not be limited to our two municipalities. To obtain a realistic picture of potential impacts, any analysis should include our other bordering communities—Randolph, Morris Township, Bernardsville, Bernards Township, Chester Township, and Peapack-Gladstone—and possibly developments outside Morris County, such as those in Bedminster, that contribute to regional traffic, infrastructure, and service demands.

More importantly, the Borough believes the discussion should be elevated to a broader, joint request for a countywide study. It has been indicated that approximately 11,000 housing units may be developed throughout Morris County because of the State's mandated Fourth Round Affordable Housing obligations. Given the magnitude of this anticipated growth, an evaluation of the impacts on transportation infrastructure, public services, and regional planning should be undertaken from a countywide perspective.

We also believe it is important to recognize the significant work Morris County has already performed through prior studies concerning the borough area roadways, traffic patterns, and safety-related initiatives. Those efforts should not be overlooked as part of any ongoing analysis.

Accordingly, we suggest that any correspondence on this matter emphasize the broader development pressures affecting communities throughout Morris County, rather than focusing solely on projects within the Borough. A coordinated request framed in this manner would be more effective in addressing the long-term regional challenges associated with anticipated growth and development due to State mandates.

The Borough of Mendham remains committed to constructive coordination with our neighboring communities. We look forward to continued dialogue that ensures responsible growth while protecting the quality of life we all value.

Sincerely,

James Kelly
Mayor, Mendham Borough