New Jersey § 52:27bbb-2

§ 52:27bbb-2.

The Legislature finds and declares that: a. The court decision striking certain provisions of P.L.2002, c. 43 1 requires the Legislature to clarify its intent in approving that act; b. The court's interpretation of P.L.2002, c. 43 is contrary to the intent of the Legislature and as a result, amendatory legislation

removing any question regarding the intent, scope and applicability of that act is

appropriate; c. It is also important to clarify and expand upon a legislative intent of focusing

redevelopment efforts in qualified municipalities by ensuring that the expenditure

of public dollars for development and redevelopment is coordinated with the expenditure

of public dollars supporting schools and educational efforts in such municipalities;

and d. Given the magnitude of the State's investment in a qualified municipality, it is

incumbent upon the State to take the appropriate steps necessary to ensure effective

governance at the school district level in addition to effective governance at the

municipal level. Not only will limited school district oversight ensure the coordinated expenditures

of public funds, it will ensure that the proposed local tax levy to support the district's

schools will not further burden the municipal tax base. Additionally, this oversight will assist the district in improving the quality of

education provided to students in the municipality. Enhancing educational quality will, in turn, assist housing revitalization by attracting

new families to the community and preventing flight of current residents. It will also serve to attract new businesses and potential employers because the

community can offer better-prepared graduates to the workforce. 1

N.J.S.A. 52:27BBB-1 et seq.