20. a. The Department of Community Affairs shall, within five months from the date of its receipt of all the election results or ordinances, or both, establishing a commission pursuant to section 7 of P.L.1977, c.435 (C. 40:43-66.41), prepare an objective study of the fiscal aspects of the proposed consolidation, and shall report its findings to the commission.

b. The department shall, to every possible extent, advise and cooperate with any consolidation commission created pursuant to P.L.1977, c.435 (C. 40:43-66.35 et seq.) and shall make available its facilities, records, and technical and professional resources. The department shall consider promptly any commission application for a State grant to conduct, or any commission request for the department to conduct, any other feasibility study or studies consistent with the provisions of P.L.1977, c.435 (C. 40:43-66.35 et seq.); provided, however, that whenever any such study or studies are to be conducted by a party other than the department, said party shall be approved by, and conduct such study or studies under the supervision of, the department. Upon approval of such study or studies, the commissioner shall certify the amount approved therefor to the State Treasurer, who shall make immediate payment thereon. Any application for financial assistance submitted by a commission created pursuant to P.L.1977, c.435 (C. 40:43-66.35 et seq.) shall have first claim on any moneys appropriated under any State aid or grant program that authorizes the use of funds for these purposes. At the written request of such a commission, a reservation of moneys shall be made by the commissioner prior to the formal filing of an application therefor by such commission.

L.1977,c.435,s.20; amended 1999, c.58, s.7.