Pamela L. Piner

The Housing Element and Fair Share Plan outlines Toms River Township's strategy to meet its affordable housing obligations, complying with New Jersey's Fair Housing Act and the Municipal Land Use Law. It includes an inventory of the municipality's housing stock, a projection of future low- and moderate-income housing, an analysis of demographic and employment characteristics, and a determination of the municipality's fair share for low- and moderate-income housing. The plan addresses present and prospective housing needs, considering suitable lands for construction and redevelopment, and evaluates consistency with the State Development and Redevelopment Plan.

The strategic plan focuses on balancing natural resource preservation with residential and economic development, especially in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. Key objectives include guiding coordinated residential and non-residential growth, developing Historic Downtown Toms River as a regional center, and using flexible development controls to conserve the natural landscape. The plan also aims to relate residential growth to municipal infrastructure, encourage appropriate commercial and industrial development, and promote redevelopment of key properties while maintaining the rural character of North Dover and Pleasant Plains.

The strategic plan focuses on maintaining and acquiring recreation, open space, and conservation areas. Key areas of focus include providing adequate recreational facilities, expanding waterfront access, creating greenways, protecting investments in recreation facilities from natural hazards, and preserving environmentally sensitive areas. The plan aims to address service gaps in recreation and open space, particularly in the northwest mainland and barrier islands, and to establish a system for prioritizing new acquisitions of conservation land.

The Utility Service Element ensures adequate infrastructure for Toms River Township's present and projected population without harming the environment or community quality of life. It focuses on solid waste disposal, encouraging private and future Township curbside composting to reduce landfill waste. Water service improvements aim to provide potable water to all residents, addressing groundwater contamination and utilizing smart technologies for efficiency. Stormwater management and flood control involve updating drainage facilities, elevating flood-prone roads, and improving water quality. Groundwater protection includes wellhead protection boundaries and septic system oversight. The plan also covers sanitary sewerage through the Toms River Township Municipal Utilities Authority (TRMUA) and waste/energy management, prioritizing green technologies and flood-proofing electrical substations.

The Periodic Reexamination Report Update and Land Use Plan Element Update focuses on land use, sustainability, and resiliency in the Township of Toms River. It addresses major problems and objectives related to land development, including affordable housing, recovery from Superstorm Sandy, traffic circulation, and economic development. The plan aims to guide future growth, promote downtown revitalization, conserve natural resources, and enhance community facilities. It also emphasizes energy conservation, environmental protection, and historic preservation.