"This administration understands that we can't begin to save our open space and continue our fight for clean water unless we give local governments the tools they need to fight unwanted development," McGreevey said in introducing the package. "These initiatives will allow mayors to take a stand against senseless development."

The legislation, generally speaking, calls for amendments to the existing Municipal Land Use Law, including establishment of impact fees. Municipalities would be given the power to impose such fees "so that developers, not property taxpayers, bear the true cost of added roads, sewer systems and new schools that result from new development," according to McGreevey.

Another change would be a Transfer of Development Rights Program that would allow the buying and selling of a property's development rights on a voluntary, market-driven basis. "Providing local government with this ability will offer more balanced planning with nearby towns," according to McGreevey.

Still other proposed changes include allowing towns to look at such off-site impacts as traffic, parking and recreation when reviewing a development application. Towns would also be required to communicate with each other on proposed projects that fall within 200 feet of adjoining towns and within 1,000 feet of adjoining counties. Local zoning and planning board members would also be required to attend workshops and training programs.