04/18/2026
MIDDLE TOWNSHIP, N.J. – The Middle Township Committee has joined the Cape May County Board of Commissioners, adopting a resolution supporting a NJ State Senate Resolution (SCR N0. 106) urging the New Jersey Legislature to declare the NJ Department of Environmental Protection’s NJPACT REAL Rules inconsistent with legislative intent.
The resolution passed by Mayor and Committee at the Township’s April 13th Public Meeting, cites the township’s continued strong opposition to the rules, which were adopted by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection on January 20, 2026. The regulations dramatically expand the state’s “Flood Hazard Area” by introducing a new Climate Adjusted Flood Elevation (CAFE) standard, while imposing sweeping changes to stormwater management, wetlands conservation, and coastal area protection rules.
Middle Township previously adopted Resolution No. 334-24, calling on the state to take an incremental and targeted approach to the NJPACT REAL Rules. Township leaders remain alarmed by the long-term consequences the rules will have on responsible development, redevelopment, renovation of existing structures, and the economic well-being of working-class families throughout Cape May County.
“Middle Township’s support for Senate Resolution No. 106 underscores our commitment to protecting our economy, property values, and the ability to deliver essential services while addressing environmental concerns in a measured and practical manner,” said Mayor Chris Leusner. “We remain opposed to the NJPACT REAL Rules as written and believe this legislative action is the right step to protect working families, local businesses, and the long-term fiscal health of Cape May County.”
The resolution notes that the NJPACT REAL Rules will increase the state’s cost of living, devalue property, and shrink county-wide and local ratable bases that are essential for funding municipal services. The resolution further criticizes the NJDEP for failing to perform a comprehensive, independent economic analysis of the NJPACT REAL Rules’ impacts on businesses, local governments, critical infrastructure, affordable housing, and township residents.
Middle Township also objects to the rules being enacted through the Governor’s Executive Order, bypassing the State Legislature and foregoing a more collaborative, balanced approach to climate and sea-level rise challenges.
