Baraka releases landmark housing proposals as gubernatorial campaign chugs ahead

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka released a sweeping proposal to revitalize housing in New Jersey, the latest of his ambitious plans as his campaign for governor comes into shape.

The 13-point proposal includes a tax relief program to minimize foreclosures, a temporary cap on rent increases, the creation of a task force dedicated to increasing the amount of residential construction, and the incentivization of more flexible zoning laws. Another peg of his plan is to create a “First Loss Capital Fund for Affordable Housing,” which would reduce the risk of starting a major housing project.

The plan is a clear refutation of New Jersey’s “not in my backyard” tendencies, as he writes. Baraka, who has positioned himself as among the most progressive of the gubernatorial candidates, said the Garden State has 200,000 too few housing units, and that this year’s affordable housing legislation is a start but not nearly enough.

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