We are residents of Hoboken who will be impacted by S-1534, which would exempt private colleges and universities from the provisions of the municipal land use law (MLUL.) This legislation severely diminishes the role of our taxpayers and governing bodies.. Vote no on A2586. The partnership between Stevens Institute of Technology and the residents of Hoboken must be one of mutual benefit for the entire community. This relationship is a key to our future growth. The partnership must be an equal one. The bill creates an unequal relationship between private universities and their neighbors, taxpayers. This legislation creates an uneven playing field between the institutions and the taxpayers of a community. The planning process should not be diminished or hindered in any way.Public scrutiny, involvement and complete transparency are essential to The involvement of locally elected officials, appointed officials and residents can only improve, not diminish, projects. For instance, under A2586 Stevens Institute of Technology or any private college or institution may expand increasing demand for parking and traffic demands on the Hoboken's community. A private college or institution could plan on building a new facilities, which undoubtedly would have impacts on quality of life issues for their neighbors. Of even greater concern, under this bill, the total exemption from local zoning regulation would arguably extend to any property acquired by a private college or institution, whether located on a central campus or some distance away, even in the middle of a residential neighborhood completely undermining local zoning. Under A2586 no projects such as these would receive the necessary public input and scrutiny. This is unacceptable. This has potential to not only be a disaster for Hoboken's community but all New Jersey communities. WE URGE YOU TO VOTE NO ON A2586

Links