Steven G. Mlenak
Land Use and Zoning Law
Land Use and Zoning Law
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Mr. Mlenak concentrates his practice in the areas of redevelopment, land use, zoning, and real estate development. His clients include property owners and developers engaged in mixed use, residential, industrial, commercial, office, retail and affordable housing development projects. Mr. Mlenak provides guidance from the initial project concept through to construction, including land use planning and approvals, permits and variances and appearances before municipal, county and state planning and zoning boards and agencies.Mr. Mlenak counsels redevelopers, property owners and municipalities on all aspects of the redevelopment process, including the negotiation and drafting of redevelopment agreements, review of redevelopment area studies and redevelopment plans, drafting of redevelopment-related ordinances and resolutions, and appearances before redevelopment entities and governing bodies. He provides counsel regarding incentives and tax abatements available at the state and federal level, including the negotiation and drafting of financial agreements (PILOT) under the Long Term Tax Exemption Law. He is also well versed in assisting clients in applications for grants under various Economic Development Authority (EDA) programs, including incentives under the Aspire Program for projects that are utilizing low income housing tax credits (LIHTC). His work in this area is enhanced by the valuable legislative experience he garnered while serving as Chief of Staff for a member of New Jersey's General Assembly, prior to entering private practice.Mr. Mlenak also maintains a strong practice in the area of community association law, providing strategic guidance and general counseling to condominium and homeowners association clients across a broad range of legal issues. His work encompasses the interpretation and amendment of governing documents and by-laws, drafting contracts, collection of delinquent assessments, the enforcement of rules and regulations, operational and maintenance issues, the fiduciary responsibilities of board members, transition negotiations and litigation, Municipal Services Act compliance, and alternative dispute resolution. He further represents clients in construction defect litigation, Fair Housing discrimination cases and landlord-tenant matters. Mr. Mlenak provides guidance from the initial project concept through to construction, including land use planning and approvals, permits and variances and appearances before municipal, county and state planning and zoning boards and agencies. Mr. Mlenak counsels redevelopers, property owners and municipalities on all aspects of the redevelopment process, including the negotiation and drafting of redevelopment agreements, review of redevelopment area studies and redevelopment plans, drafting of redevelopment-related ordinances and resolutions, and appearances before redevelopment entities and governing bodies. He provides counsel regarding incentives and tax abatements available at the state and federal level, including the negotiation and drafting of financial agreements (PILOT) under the Long Term Tax Exemption Law. He is also well versed in assisting clients in applications for grants under various Economic Development Authority (EDA) programs, including incentives under the Aspire Program for projects that are utilizing low income housing tax credits (LIHTC). His work in this area is enhanced by the valuable legislative experience he garnered while serving as Chief of Staff for a member of New Jersey's General Assembly, prior to entering private practice. Mr. Mlenak also maintains a strong practice in the area of community association law, providing strategic guidance and general counseling to condominium and homeowners association clients across a broad range of legal issues. His work encompasses the interpretation and amendment of governing documents and by-laws, drafting contracts, collection of delinquent assessments, the enforcement of rules and regulations, operational and maintenance issues, the fiduciary responsibilities of board members, transition negotiations and litigation, Municipal Services Act compliance, and alternative dispute resolution. He further represents clients in construction defect litigation, Fair Housing discrimination cases and landlord-tenant matters.
Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2025
Shirley Garcia
Our firm engaged Steven Mlenak to guide us through the intricate approval process for a mixed-use redevelopment project in Essex County. From the outset, Steven’s deep knowledge of New Jersey land use law and municipal procedures was evident. He expertly navigated complex zoning variances and negotiated a redevelopment agreement that protected our interests while satisfying municipal goals. His 14 years of focused experience in this niche area, which his recent recognition in Land Use and Zoning Law underscores, proved invaluable. Steven is not just a technically brilliant attorney; he is a strategic partner who communicates clearly, anticipates hurdles, and executes with precision. The project received all necessary approvals on an aggressive timeline, a direct result of his professionalism and dedication. We will undoubtedly turn to Steven and Greenbaum Rowe for our future real estate development needs.
Litigation - Labor and Employment