July 9, 2012

Re: League Files Brief to Protect Municipal Housing Trust Funds

Dear Mayor:

On Friday, the League submitted its amicus brief in support of the litigation initiated by the Fair Share Housing Center, which seeks to prevent the State seizure of the municipal housing trust funds.

According the Department of Community Affairs’ June report, $161 million of local trust fund dollars were exposed for seizure by the State as of June 5.   The July report has not been posted, but the link for the June report (and presumably the July report when it is posted) is: http://www.nj.gov/dca/services/lps/hss/transinfo/reports/ahtf_2008_unspent.pdf

The League’s brief is posted online at: http://www.njslom.org/letters/2012-0709-regs.pdf

The Fair Share Housing Center’s brief can be downloaded at: http://goo.gl/dacsb

If you recall, the Governor vetoed legislation that would have provided a two-year extension for the trusts to be “committed for expenditure.” Budget language defining “committed for expenditure” was line-item vetoed from the budget.  Both the extension legislation and budget language were supported by the League.

League Associate Counsel Jeffrey R. Surenian, Esq. and Matthew Weng, Esq., League Staff Attorney, will argue on behalf of the League.  Oral argument is scheduled for this Friday, July 13, 10 AM in Newark.   We will advise of all developments as quickly as possible.

For more please see our Dear Mayor letter of June 3.  Questions can be directed to Mike Cerra at mcerra@njslom.com or (609) 695-3481 x120.

Very truly yours,

William G. Dressel, Jr.
Executive Director