TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Zach Dougherty, a Democratic candidate in Toms River, has raised eyebrows with his decision to appoint Ben Dziobek, a climate activist and outspoken advocate for the abolition of single-family housing zoning, as his campaign manager. Dziobek, who currently works with New Jersey Future, has long championed high-density affordable housing, a stance that could significantly alter the fabric of suburban communities like Toms River.
New Jersey Future’s push for zoning reform—specifically, eliminating single-family housing in favor of multi-unit developments—has been met with concern in towns that fear overdevelopment. Toms River, like many communities in New Jersey, has historically relied on single-family homes as part of its suburban character. Critics argue that introducing high-density housing could lead to overcrowded schools, increased traffic, and strain on local infrastructure, all of which are already issues in rapidly developing parts of the state.
New Jersey Future also endorses Phil Murphy’s offshore wind energy agenda.
For years, Toms River has been the target of developers eager to capitalize on its location and available land, often clashing with residents who want to preserve the town’s suburban nature. Dougherty’s choice of Dziobek, a vocal opponent of traditional zoning laws, is seen by many as an indication that his campaign may be aligned with those advocating for denser, urban-style developments, which have faced pushback from local communities.
The debate over single-family zoning is not just a policy issue—it is deeply tied to the identity of towns like Toms River. Historically, zoning laws have allowed municipalities to control growth, protecting green spaces and maintaining a balance between residential and commercial development. Opponents of Dziobek’s vision worry that abolishing these protections could open the door to unchecked development, shifting Toms River away from its suburban roots and toward a future of apartment complexes and congested streets.
Critics point out that while affordable housing is important, the sweeping changes proposed by zoning reform advocates like Dziobek could come at a high cost. “Eliminating single-family zoning is not just about affordability,” said one local resident. “It’s about preserving the quality of life in communities like ours. We don’t want Toms River to become just another overdeveloped New Jersey town.”
While Dziobek’s advocacy reflects national trends toward zoning reform seen in places like Oregon and California, many in Toms River are wary of following suit. Previous attempts to introduce high-density developments in the town have been met with resistance, as locals fear the loss of the suburban character they value. Dougherty’s alignment with Dziobek suggests that housing reform could become a major flashpoint in the upcoming election, with the future of Toms River’s landscape hanging in the balance.
As the campaign moves forward, residents will be watching closely to see if Dougherty’s policies reflect the interests of those who wish to preserve the community’s suburban charm or if he pushes for the kind of overdevelopment that has stirred controversy in other parts of the state.