July 10, 2025 - BLOOMFIELD, NJ - The Township of Bloomfield is aware that, during a meeting held on Wednesday, July 9, the Rent Leveling Board voted to authorize the filing of a legal complaint against the Township in Superior Court. While the Township has not yet been served with the complaint and the specific legal relief being sought remains unclear, we are disappointed by this action, especially given the ongoing efforts to address the Board’s concerns in a cooperative and constructive manner.
The Rent Leveling Board serves a vital role in Bloomfield’s housing landscape. As a quasi-judicial body created voluntarily by Township ordinance, the Board is responsible for adjudicating disputes between landlords and tenants, including applications for rent increases, allegations of harassment, and requests for rent reductions due to service deficiencies. Board members are appointed by the Township Council and serve as volunteers, upholding local housing protections that have been in place since the ordinance’s adoption in 2016.
Over the past year, the Township has worked diligently to improve the Rent Leveling Process in response to concerns raised by the Board. These efforts include working towards a transition to electronic rent roll submissions from landlords, finalizing new software to better manage data and case tracking, and making key forms and information more accessible through the Township website. Several of these enhancements have already been completed, and others are in advanced stages of implementation.
“We’ve made it a priority to modernize and strengthen how we support both tenants and landlords,” said Mayor Jenny Mundell. “Since taking office in November 2025, I have worked alongside Councilwoman Sarah Cruz, who serves as liaison to the Rent Leveling Board, as well as with Township administration, to carefully evaluate and address concerns the board has raised. This includes not only updating administrative systems, but also reviewing the ordinance itself to ensure it reflects current needs and realities. Most importantly, every tenant who has sought relief has had access to the process guaranteed under the law.”
In addition to operational improvements, Mayor Mundell has asked Township staff to explore the creation of a Public Advocate for Renters - an initiative that goes beyond existing legal requirements and would provide tenants with added support and guidance when navigating rent disputes.
The Township has worked closely with both the Township Attorney and the Board’s appointed legal counsel to understand the Board’s concerns and to reach a resolution without litigation. That dialogue remains open.
“We respect the role of the Rent Leveling Board, and we’ve welcomed their input,” Mayor Mundell added. “But we are puzzled by the decision to pursue legal action at a time when so much progress is being made in response to the very issues they’ve raised. We remain committed to protecting tenants, enforcing the ordinance, and working in good faith to improve the process for everyone involved.”
The Township will withhold further comment until the details of the complaint are reviewed. Bloomfield remains committed to ensuring fair housing practices and maintaining transparent, accessible systems that serve the entire community.