A 2nd Citizen's Group Will Legally Challenge Montgomery Township's Affordable Housing Plan, Has a gofundme site

By Barbara A. Preston | August 14, 2025

A group known as "Montgomery Neighbors United" has raised almost $9,000 as of today to challenge Montgomery Township's plan to provide the state-mandated 260 units or credits of affordable housing. Meanwhile, another group known as Save Montgomery, has raised more than $45,000.

Click image above to view the Montgomery Neighbors United gofundme page.

"Our mission is rooted in a deep love for Montgomery Township—especially the Kenvue site and the surrounding areas that define the rural character and natural beauty of our community. Fairview Road, Grandview Road, Hollow Road, and the nearby creek are not just points on a map—they are peaceful, wooded neighborhoods where birdsong greets the morning and the rhythm of nature sets the pace of life," according to MontgomeryNeighborsUnited.org.

The township's current affordable housing plan allows for the redevelopment of the former Kenvue site in Montgomery Township. This has proved to be a matter of significant local concern, sparking considerable public opposition due to its potential impact on the area's rural character, the environmentally sensitive Sourlands region, infrastructure, and cultural heritage. 

The adopted plan includes the demolition and redevelopment of the 160-acre Kenvue property into 417 housing units, 70 of which would be affordable units. Residents have strongly opposed this proposal. The Montgomery Township Planning Board and Township Committee heard extensive public comments expressing frustration and opposition to the proposed plan. At a recent town hall meeting, elected officials and township planners put forth new options that could potentially exclude Kenvue. However, the site is in the plan for now.

Montgomery Neighbors United plan to hire Affordable Housing Attorney Andrew Bayer to ensure that Kenvue is removed from the plan.

Bayer was recently quoted in an Asbury Park Press article titled, “Holmdel: NJ Overcalculated How Much Affordable Housing Must be Built in Our Town.” The article discusses how Holmdel contested the state-assigned obligation and argued that it should be reduced by 35 affordable housing units premised upon the state’s miscalculation of overall land capacity.

Bayer, as Holmdel Township’s affordable housing attorney, emphasized the importance of adopting adopting a resolution, so that Holmdel "will retain immunity from builder’s remedy litigation, which is something the township wants to do,” said Bayer. Still, Bayer pointed out that the township's efforts to lower its prospective need would significantly reduce the overall housing obligations. “By at least starting out and by reducing the obligation by 35 units, that is reducing the total number of potential total residential units by 150 units,” he stated.

Holmdel is seeking a vacant land adjustment, which will further reduce the township’s affordable housing obligation because it lacks sufficient developable land for large-scale housing development. The township now awaits Fair Share Housing and the New Jersey Builder’s response to its assessment before finalizing a Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, which will set forth the strategy by which the township will ultimately satisfy its Fourth-Round affordable housing obligation in the least impactful way possible on the community.

The Neighbors United group have urged the township to consider alternative approaches to meeting its affordable housing obligations.

The Neighbors United citizens cite the following key concerns:

• Loss of Rural Character and Natural Beauty: The Kenvue site is surrounded by peaceful, wooded neighborhoods integral to the rural charm and natural beauty of Montgomery Township. The area, bordering the Sourland Mountains, is recognized for its abundant wildlife, quiet trails, and remaining undeveloped land.

• Environmental Impact: Opponents are particularly concerned about the threat posed by high-density development to the sensitive wetlands along Fairview Road. These wetlands are identified as supporting a rich biodiversity, including various species like tree frogs, foxes, large woodpeckers, migratory birds, and bald eagles. The loss of this habitat due to potential paving and development is highlighted as a serious threat to the ecosystem. The wetlands also provide crucial services such as groundwater recharge and stormwater runoff reduction.

• Infrastructure Deficiencies: The existing infrastructure is deemed insufficient for large-scale development. There's a lack of public sewer and water systems, and no sidewalks for pedestrian safety. The dangerous "S-curve" on Fairview Road and a one-lane bridge are also cited as safety hazards that are not equipped to handle the increased traffic volume that hundreds of new homes would generate. Concerns have also been raised about potential contamination of private wells and increased traffic exacerbating air and water pollution.

• Deviation from State Planning: The site's designation by the State of New Jersey as a rural area is emphasized, highlighting that it is not intended for high-density development. Despite this, Montgomery Township elected officials have chosen to include the Kenvue site in its affordable housing plan, raising questions about adherence to responsible planning practices and the interests of local residents.

• Cultural Significance: The I.M. Pei-designed building on the Kenvue campus is recognized as a rare architectural gem and a symbol of thoughtful design and innovation. Demolishing this landmark for new construction would be a loss to Montgomery's cultural identity.

Two world-class corporate buildings on the Kenvue site, which were designed by the architectural firm of I.M. Pei. (Pei designed the Louve pyramid in Paris). Kenvue is the former Johnson & Johnson consumer and baby products site in Skillman. Photo by Barbara A. Preston.

In addition, the group is concerned that the Planning Board and Township Committee appears to have pushed through the Kenvue housing development without allowing proper time for public input. Plans were rushed out with tight deadlines, leaving little room for residents to review or respond, according to social media posts. "Many feel blindsided by the board’s lack of transparency and disregard for community concerns, as they force through a development plan with minimal scrutiny," according to social media.