Land Use Reform

1. Do you support statewide zoning reform to allow multi-family housing in areas currently zoned exclusively for single-family homes?

• Strongly Support

I support statewide zoning reform that allows for more multi-family housing, especially in areas currently zoned only for single-family homes. New Jersey is facing a serious affordability crisis, and we need real solutions that make it possible for working families, young people, and seniors to live in the communities they love. By updating outdated zoning laws, we can create more diverse housing options, reduce displacement, and promote smarter and more sustainable development, particularly near mass transit and job centers. This is not just about housing policy. It is about fairness, opportunity, and building stronger and more inclusive neighborhoods for everyone.

2. Would you vote to legalize Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) statewide, overriding local bans or restrictions?

• Yes

Yes, I would vote to legalize Accessory Dwelling Units statewide. ADUs are a practical and proven way to increase housing options, support multigenerational living, and help residents stay in their communities as their needs change. Whether it’s a converted garage, a basement apartment, or a small unit on an existing property, ADUs can provide affordable, flexible housing without changing the character of a neighborhood. Local restrictions have held back progress for too long. It’s time for statewide action that gives families more choices and helps address New Jersey’s housing shortage in a responsible and thoughtful way.

3. Would you vote to legalize single-stair buildings statewide, overriding local bans or restrictions? If yes, do you support four-stories or some higher number? If no, why not?

• Yes

Yes, I would vote to legalize single-stair buildings statewide. I am proud to support Assembly Bill A4972 as a second prime sponsor because I believe modernizing our building code is a critical step toward creating more affordable and livable housing across New Jersey.

Single-stair buildings are common in many countries and allow for space-efficient, well-designed units with better natural light, ventilation, and flexibility—especially in walkable, urban areas where housing demand is high. A4972 would help make that possible here.

I support allowing single-stair buildings up to four stories, which strikes a balance between expanding housing options and maintaining strong safety standards. If experts determine that taller single-stair buildings can safely meet fire and accessibility codes, I would be open to going higher. Ultimately, my focus is on supporting smart, people-centered development that meets our housing needs while keeping communities safe and vibrant.

Transit-Oriented Development (“TOD”)

4. Should the state preempt local zoning laws near major transit stations to allow “by-right” development of multi-family or mixed-income housing?

• Yes

Yes, I believe the state should take action to allow by-right development of multi-family or mixed-income housing near major transit stations. New Jersey has invested heavily in public transportation, and we need to make sure our land use policies match that investment. Encouraging housing near transit is one of the most effective ways to reduce traffic congestion, cut emissions, and connect people to jobs, schools, and services.

Too often, local zoning laws block the kind of smart, sustainable development we need. By allowing by-right development near transit, we can create more housing options, promote economic growth, and help meet the needs of residents who rely on public transportation. This is a common-sense step toward solving our housing crisis and building stronger, more inclusive communities.

5. A developer has proposed (link for details) a 1,000 unit (150 designated income-restricted affordable units and 100 workforce units for artists) apartment building at 150 Bay Street in downtown Jersey City. This development would also include a new public school for Kindergarten through Sixth Grade, a public plaza, and no parking spots. Do you support this project? If yes, would you support more projects like this within half a mile of PATH or NJ Transit HBLR stations in (or near) your legislative district?

• Yes

Yes, I support this project. It adds hundreds of new homes—including much-needed affordable and workforce housing—right in the heart of downtown Jersey City, where demand is high and access to transit is strong. The inclusion of a new public school and public plaza shows a real commitment to building community, not just buildings. And while it includes no parking, that makes sense in a neighborhood well-served by PATH and the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, where we should be encouraging walkability and transit use.

I would absolutely support more projects like this within half a mile of PATH or HBLR stations in or near our district. These kinds of developments move us toward a more affordable, sustainable, and equitable future, while also addressing school overcrowding and improving public spaces. We need to be bold about the kind of growth we support—growth that serves the people who live here now and those who hope to call this community home.

6. Would you back legislation that removes minimum parking requirements near transit (within half a mile) to reduce housing production costs and promote TOD?

• Depends 

Removing minimum parking requirements near transit can definitely help reduce housing costs and encourage transit-oriented development, but it needs to be done thoughtfully. Some neighborhoods and residents still rely on cars, and inadequate parking can create challenges for families, seniors, and people with disabilities.

I would support removing or reducing parking minimums in areas where public transit access is strong and where alternative transportation options like biking and walking are safe and convenient. But it’s also important to work closely with local communities to ensure that changes meet their needs and don’t create unintended problems. Balancing affordability, accessibility, and quality of life is key.

7. Should the state provide funding or tax credits for municipalities that adopt pro-housing zoning reforms near transit?

• Yes

Please explain your position:

Yes, I believe the state should provide funding or tax credits to municipalities that adopt pro-housing zoning reforms near transit. These incentives can encourage local governments to take bold steps to address our housing shortage by making it easier to build more homes where they are needed most.

By rewarding towns that promote smart growth and transit-oriented development, we can accelerate progress toward more affordable and sustainable communities. This approach helps align local priorities with statewide goals, supports economic development, and improves quality of life for residents. It’s a practical way to foster collaboration and ensure that every part of New Jersey can contribute to solving the housing crisis.

Housing Affordability and Public Land Use

8. Do you support ending the 30-year exemption on rent control for new rental buildings?

• Depends

Depends. I understand the intent behind the 30-year exemption—to encourage developers to build new rental housing—but I also believe that after a certain point, rent protections should apply to ensure affordability for tenants. Ending the exemption too soon could discourage much-needed new development, but keeping it for a full 30 years means some tenants face high rents for a very long time.

I would support a balanced approach that gradually phases in rent control protections after a reasonable period, perhaps shorter than 30 years but long enough to incentivize investment. It’s important to protect tenants from rapid rent increases while also encouraging developers to build the housing our communities desperately need. Finding the right balance is key to creating stable, affordable housing for everyone.

9. Do you support defining what “unconscionable” means with respect to rent increases? 

If yes, how – or at what rate – would you define the term “unconscionable” and if no, why not?

• Depends

Defining “unconscionable” rent increases is important to protect tenants from unfair hikes, but it must be done carefully to balance tenant protections with the realities landlords face, including rising costs and maintenance expenses.

If we define “unconscionable” too narrowly or too strictly, it could discourage landlords from maintaining or investing in their properties and reduce the overall housing supply. On the other hand, without clear standards, tenants can be vulnerable to sudden and excessive rent increases.

I support creating a clear but flexible definition tied to reasonable benchmarks such as tying increases to inflation rates, local wage growth, or cost of living adjustments while allowing for exceptions in special cases. This approach protects renters while keeping the market fair and sustainable.

10. Do you support using surplus state or local land (such as government-owned parking lots, disused buildings, etc.) to build affordable or mixed-income housing?

• Support

Using surplus state or local land to build affordable or mixed-income housing is a smart and efficient way to address our housing crisis. Many government-owned properties, like parking lots or unused buildings, sit idle and could be put to better use by creating homes for families who need them.

This approach helps reduce costs, speeds up development, and makes good use of existing infrastructure, especially when these sites are near transit, schools, and jobs. While it’s important to carefully evaluate each site to ensure the right fit for the community, I believe this strategy is a key tool in expanding affordable housing and building stronger, more inclusive neighborhoods.

11. Do you support banning institutional ownership of single-family homes or multi-family homes under four units? 

• Support

Institutional ownership of single-family homes and small multi-family buildings has contributed to housing affordability challenges by limiting opportunities for individual homebuyers and sometimes driving up rents. I support measures to limit or ban such ownership in order to protect affordable housing and promote community stability.

At the same time, it is important to recognize that institutional investors can bring needed resources for property maintenance and professional management. Any policy should be carefully crafted to balance protecting residents and encouraging responsible investment that contributes positively to neighborhoods. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure housing is accessible, affordable, and well-maintained for everyone.

12. Would you support funding a state-led expansion of the housing choice voucher program to give low-income residents more housing choice?

• Support

Expanding the housing choice voucher program is a valuable way to give low-income residents more options to find safe, affordable housing in communities that offer opportunity. Vouchers help families access neighborhoods with better schools, jobs, and services, which can improve quality of life and economic mobility.

While funding expansion requires careful management to ensure effectiveness and prevent unintended consequences like rent inflation, I believe a state-led effort can strengthen the program and better connect residents to stable housing. This is an important part of a comprehensive approach to addressing our housing challenges.

13. Would you vote for legislation requiring municipalities to meet minimum housing production targets, including affordable housing, as a condition of receiving certain state funds?

• Depends

I believe it’s important for municipalities to contribute to addressing our housing shortage, including creating affordable homes. Setting minimum housing production targets can help ensure progress and accountability.

However, I also think these requirements need to be flexible enough to account for differences between communities, including infrastructure capacity, environmental concerns, and local needs. Conditioning state funding on meeting targets can be effective if paired with support and resources to help municipalities succeed rather than simply penalizing them. The goal should be partnership and shared responsibility to build more affordable and sustainable housing across New Jersey.

14. If you had to choose between an expansion of state-led housing choice voucher program and funding the production of affordable housing units, which would you choose?

• Housing choice voucher

• Affordable housing production

Affordable housing production. I believe funding the production of affordable housing units should be our priority. Building new affordable homes increases the supply of stable, long-term housing options and helps create strong, thriving communities. Without enough affordable units available, housing choice vouchers have limited impact because there simply aren’t enough places for people to use them.

While expanding the housing choice voucher program is also important, producing more affordable housing is the foundation of a lasting solution to our state’s housing crisis. Investing in new homes ensures that more families have access to safe and affordable places to live for years to come.

15. Would you vote for legislation that bans junk fees in rental agreements like broker fees statewide?

• Depends 

Depends. I support efforts to reduce unfair and excessive fees that make housing less affordable and accessible for renters. Broker fees and other hidden “junk fees” can add significant costs and barriers for people trying to find a home.

At the same time, it’s important to ensure that any legislation is carefully designed so it targets truly exploitative fees without unintended consequences. For example, brokers provide important services in many markets, and fees that cover legitimate costs should be fairly considered. I would support legislation that clearly defines and bans unreasonable fees while protecting fair compensation for services that help renters and landlords alike.

16. Would you vote for legislation that bans applications like RealPage from aggregating rental price data?

• Yes

Yes. I would support legislation that bans applications like RealPage from aggregating rental price data. While data transparency is important, allowing private companies to collect and use this information unchecked can contribute to rent inflation and limit market competition. Studies have shown that some data aggregation platforms can enable price manipulation or reduce affordability by giving landlords tools to set higher rents.

Banning such practices would help protect renters from these harmful effects and promote a fairer, more transparent rental market. At the same time, the state can explore alternative ways to gather and share rental data responsibly to ensure tenants still have access to the information they need.

Green Space, Resilience, and Smart Growth

17. Should new development projects be allowed to build more densely if they fund or provide nearby public green space or parks?

• Depends 

Depends. I support the idea of encouraging new development to include public green space or parks because these areas improve quality of life, promote community health, and provide important environmental benefits. Allowing increased density in exchange for funding or providing green space can be a smart way to balance growth with livability.

However, it’s important that increased density is appropriate for the neighborhood and supported by infrastructure like schools, transit, and services. Each project should be evaluated carefully to ensure that the benefits of added green space outweigh any potential challenges from denser development. Thoughtful planning and community input are key to making this approach successful.

18. Do you support the Caven Point Protection Act for Liberty State Park?

• Yes

Yes. I fully support the Caven Point Protection Act because preserving this precious natural area within Liberty State Park is essential for both the environment and the community. Caven Point provides critical habitat for wildlife, including migratory birds and other species that rely on this green space to thrive.

Protecting Caven Point ensures that this unique peninsula remains accessible to the public as a peaceful retreat and educational resource for generations to come. It’s important that we safeguard these natural areas from development or privatization, keeping Liberty State Park a vibrant, welcoming place for all residents and visitors. This legislation reflects our commitment to conservation and responsible stewardship of our public lands.

19. Would you support legislation that prohibits the use of any state park as a venue for professional sports and protects all state parkland from commercial development and stadium construction?

• Yes

Yes. I strongly support legislation that prohibits the use of any state park as a venue for professional sports and protects all state parkland from commercial development and stadium construction. State parks are vital public spaces meant for recreation, conservation, and community enjoyment. Allowing commercial development or stadiums in these areas risks damaging natural habitats, limiting public access, and changing the character of these treasured parks.

Preserving our state parks as green spaces ensures that all residents can continue to enjoy them for outdoor activities, relaxation, and connecting with nature. Protecting these lands from commercial interests is essential to maintaining their environmental and social value now and for future generations.

Street Safety and Highway Policies

20. If elected, will you champion or co-sponsor legislation that advances Vision Zero statewide?

• Yes

Yes. I will proudly champion and co-sponsor legislation that advances Vision Zero statewide. Eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries is a critical public safety goal that requires strong commitment and coordinated action.

21. How would you describe your position to the New Jersey Turnpike Extension highway widening and replacement program?

• In between

The NJ Turnpike Extension expansion is a highly debated issue, particularly in Bayonne and Jersey City. The majority of constituents in Bayonne are in favor of the widening, as it could improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in their area. However, Jersey City constituents oppose it due to concerns about increased traffic, environmental impact, and potential disruption to the community.  A possible compromise could involve widening the bridges from Exit 14 to Exit 14A to improve access and alleviate congestion in Bayonne while avoiding expansion around the Holland Tunnel area in Jersey City. This would balance the needs of both areas, ensuring that the benefits of widening are realized without causing significant issues in Jersey City. Additionally, measures could be put in place to mitigate any negative environmental and community impacts, such as enhanced sound barriers, improved green spaces, and increased public transit options.

22. Would you introduce or sponsor legislation that allows the New Jersey Department of Transportation and the New Jersey Turnpike Authority to implement dynamic, demand-based variable tolling (commonly referred to as “HOT Lanes”) for express lanes on I-78, Garden State Parkway, and the New Jersey Turnpike? 

• Depends

I recognize that dynamic, demand-based tolling, or HOT lanes, can help manage congestion by offering drivers an option for faster travel during peak times. This approach has been effective in some regions to improve traffic flow and reduce delays.

At the same time, it is important to carefully consider the potential impacts on all commuters, especially low-income residents who may be disproportionately affected by toll costs. Any legislation I would support would need to include strong protections to ensure equity and transparency. Additionally, revenues from tolling should be reinvested in public transportation and infrastructure improvements to benefit the entire community.

Overall, I am open to exploring solutions like HOT lanes if they are implemented thoughtfully and fairly.

23. Do you support New York’s Congestion Pricing?

• Yes

Yes. I support New York’s congestion pricing because it has helped reduce traffic and improve transit funding. Early data shows less congestion and faster travel times. Implementing a similar program in New Jersey could ease traffic while providing resources to improve public transportation. It’s important to design such programs fairly to protect low-income communities.

24. If any group, organization, or continuing political committee that supports or benefits from the Turnpike Extension were to support your campaign directly or indirectly, would you return the money and disavow the support?

Depends. I believe it is important to carefully consider the source of any campaign contributions and ensure that they align with the values and interests of the community I represent. If support comes from groups that have a direct financial stake in projects like the Turnpike Extension, I would evaluate the situation thoroughly.

Maintaining transparency and trust with voters is a priority, so I would consider returning contributions if there is a clear conflict of interest or if accepting the funds could create the appearance of undue influence. Ultimately, my decisions would be guided by what best serves the community and upholds ethical standards.

Public Transportation Access & Affordability

25. Would you support reallocating funds from highway expansion projects to enhance public transportation infrastructure and services?

• Depends

I understand that the NJ Turnpike Extension expansion is a complex and sensitive issue, especially for communities like Bayonne and Jersey City. Many residents in Bayonne support widening to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, while Jersey City residents have concerns about increased traffic, environmental impacts, and community disruption.

A balanced approach might involve reallocating some funds to enhance public transportation and improve infrastructure where it benefits the most, such as widening bridges between Exit 14 and Exit 14A to ease Bayonne’s congestion, while limiting expansion near sensitive areas like the Holland Tunnel in Jersey City. This approach can address transportation needs while protecting communities and the environment. Additional investments in sound barriers, green spaces, and public transit should be part of any plan to ensure a fair and sustainable solution.

26. Would you support incentivizing Hudson County and local municipalities with state funding to implement bus rapid transit lanes for NJTransit on select county or local roads like John F. Kennedy Blvd?

• Yes

Yes. I support incentivizing Hudson County and local municipalities with state funding to implement bus rapid transit lanes on key roads like John F. Kennedy Boulevard. Dedicated bus lanes can improve the speed and reliability of public transit, making it a more attractive option for commuters and reducing traffic congestion. By investing in efficient transit solutions, we can enhance mobility, lower emissions, and provide better access to jobs and services for residents. Supporting these improvements aligns with our goals for sustainable and equitable transportation in the region.

27. Do you support the implementation of the Corporate Transit Fee—a 2.5% tax on corporations with net incomes over $10 million—as a dedicated funding source for NJ Transit?

• Depends

I understand the critical need for stable, dedicated funding to support NJ Transit, which is essential for our state’s transportation infrastructure. The proposed Corporate Transit Fee targets large corporations with net incomes over $10 million and is expected to generate significant revenue, mostly from out-of-state companies. While this measure has strong support from labor and transit advocates, some business groups raise concerns about its potential effects on the state’s economic environment. Given these perspectives, I would carefully weigh the benefits of securing reliable transit funding against the potential impact on the business climate, with a focus on ensuring fair and sustainable solutions for all New Jersey residents.

28. If you had to choose between transferring funding from 1) the New Jersey Turnpike Authority / NJDOT highway fund, 2) implementing a corporate transit fee, or 3) raising the sales tax to fund transit, which policy would you implement? You may only choose one.

Of these options, I would choose implementing the corporate transit fee. This approach offers a dedicated and significant source of funding specifically for NJ Transit, primarily affecting large corporations with high net incomes, many of which operate outside of New Jersey. By focusing on this group, it helps lessen the financial burden on everyday residents. Reliable transit funding is vital to maintaining and improving our infrastructure, supporting economic growth, and advancing environmental goals. While it’s important to remain attentive to the fee’s impact on businesses, I believe this targeted solution offers the fairest balance between generating necessary revenue and protecting working families.

Commitment to Urban Vitality Issues

29. Will you meet with Better Blocks New Jersey to shape legislation and priorities in Trenton?

• Yes

30. Is there anything else we should know about your policies regarding housing, transit, street safety, or public parks?

I believe that addressing housing, transit, street safety, and public parks requires a balanced and community-focused approach. Affordable and equitable housing must be a priority, with thoughtful zoning reforms that respect local needs while promoting smart growth. Investing in reliable, accessible public transit is essential to reduce congestion and connect people to opportunities. Street safety initiatives like Vision Zero can save lives and create more walkable neighborhoods. Protecting and enhancing public parks ensures our communities have vital green spaces for recreation and wellbeing. Above all, my policies aim to listen to residents, work collaboratively with local leaders, and deliver practical solutions that improve quality of life for everyone.

Candidate Information

Candidate Name: Barbara McCann Stamato

Campaign Name: McCann Stamato and Weimmer for Assembly