Greenbrook Country Club
Setting the Record Straight on Development in North Caldwell
Overview
The future of Green Brook Country Club has sparked confusion, concern, and the intentional spread of misinformation in our community. This issue brief clarifies key facts and corrects the most common misconceptions about the property, the development, and the role of the Mayor and Council.
Background
In 2018, the private members of Green Brook Country Club voted to sell the property to Green Brook Realty Associates, LLC. The Borough of North Caldwell did not sell the land and had no role or authority in that private decision. The Borough was not involved in initiating or approving the sale.
The Facts About Development
Although critics claim the current Council supports overdevelopment, the reality is that this situation was inherited. The Council had no legal ability to reverse the sale, but it took proactive steps to reduce the negative impact of the proposed development. Accomplishments include:
Negotiated Reduced Impact: The Council eliminated 3-story buildings from the development plan, prevented the establishment of an assisted living complex, and negotiated for fewer, more dispersed housing units.
Secured Benefits for the Borough: The renegotiated agreement brought in $1.5 million for public improvements to Walker and Liberty Parks. It also kept the golf course operational for an additional 18 months during negotiations.
Protected Borough Schools and Services: The updated development plan minimizes strain on North Caldwell and West Essex schools. It reduced the number of units that have the potential to house school-aged children. It also removed unrealistic options from the original deal for school construction on “12 acres” of steep, rocky, and unbuildable terrain.
Clarifying Misconceptions
Affordable Housing: State law requires the Borough to meet affordable housing quotas. If the Borough did not comply, developers could have placed high-density housing anywhere in town, bypassing local zoning through a state legal mechanism called a “Builder’s Remedy”.
Other Buyers: No offers to purchase or preserve the property have been received by the developer since the original sale. The Council openly expressed interest in preserving the property as a golf course before the 2024 transaction was finalized.
Resident Engagement: The Council has consistently engaged residents and responded to community concerns. Unfortunately, a small group—some of whom voted for the original sale—have resorted to spreading misinformation through social circles and filing frivolous lawsuits against the town. This has cost taxpayers almost $40,000 in legal fees to date. Legal fees that are incurred by the Borough are paid by North Caldwell taxpayers.
Conclusion
The current Mayor and Council have navigated a challenging situation with transparency, accountability, and a focus on minimizing long-term impacts to the Borough. The facts demonstrate a clear record of negotiation, compromise, and advocacy for controlled growth.