This bill amends Section 25 of P.L.2007, c.63 to improve the municipal consolidation process in New Jersey by allowing governing bodies from two or more municipalities within the same county to apply for a consolidation plan or the creation of a Municipal Consolidation Study Commission, regardless of whether they are contiguous. A new petition process is introduced, requiring signatures from at least 10% of the total votes cast in each municipality during the last general election to initiate the creation of a study commission. The bill also specifies that non-contiguous municipalities can consolidate if they are within a reasonable distance of each other, streamlining the process and making it more accessible for municipalities aiming to reduce expenses for property taxpayers.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for the Municipal Consolidation Study Commission, including member qualifications, study timeframes, and public hearing requirements. It mandates that a final report with findings and recommendations be made publicly available and that any consolidation proposal must receive majority voter support in each participating municipality during a referendum. The bill also includes provisions for the recognition of seniority and pension rights for law enforcement and firefighters, the establishment of a task force to facilitate consolidation, and the ability for municipalities to seek waivers for laws that may impede the process. Overall, the bill aims to create a more efficient and equitable framework for municipal consolidation while protecting the interests of residents and employees.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40A:65-25, 40A:65-26, 40A:65-27, 40A:65-28, 40A:65-29, 40:43-66.78, 40:43-66.79, 40:43-66.80, 40:43-66.81, 40:43-66.82