By: Richard L. Smith
Hoboken has agreed to eliminate a city-only residency preference in its affordable housing program after a state investigation found the policy may have discriminated based on race, according to New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division on Civil Rights (DCR).
The settlement resolves a complaint alleging that a 2019 municipal ordinance unfairly limited access to affordable housing by prioritizing current Hoboken residents, replacing a broader regional preference that included Hudson, Bergen, Passaic, and Sussex counties.
The investigation was prompted by a complaint from a Black Jersey City resident who said she was barred from applying for housing despite spending years on a waitlist.
Under the agreement, Hoboken will restore a regional residency preference, reinstate or review applicants who were previously denied or skipped, and dedicate at least $30,000 to affordability assistance and fair housing initiatives.
City staff involved in housing administration will also be required to complete anti-discrimination training.
State officials said the settlement is intended to expand fair and equal access to affordable housing in a region where rents continue to rise. 
The announcement was made by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office and the Division on Civil Rights.