What main purpose does the Planning Board serve in New Jersey?

The Planning Board in New Jersey primarily oversees land use and development plans, which is a critical function in managing how land is utilized within a municipality. This includes reviewing and approving development applications, conducting master plan revisions, and ensuring that land use complies with zoning ordinances and local regulations. By focusing on land use planning, the board plays an essential role in shaping the community's growth, maintaining sustainable development, and addressing concerns like infrastructure, housing, and environmental impacts.

This function contrasts sharply with the other options. Regulating environmental assessments is typically a responsibility that may involve various environmental commissions or agencies but is not the central role of the Planning Board. While coordination of public transportation is essential for urban planning, it involves different governmental entities, usually focused on transportation agencies rather than the Planning Board itself. Handling municipal budgets falls under the purview of the finance department or governing body of the municipality, not the Planning Board. Thus, overseeing land use and development plans stands out as the key purpose of the Planning Board in New Jersey.