(08/04/06) SOUTH RIVER ? Leaders in South River are going on the offensive to stop illegal housing in their community.

Borough officials say the common practice of overloading a home, called stacking, is both costly and dangerous. According to South River Mayor Robert Szegeti, illegal homes rob the borough of traditional taxes. The practice also creates safety hazards because the dwelling may not be up to code.

In addition to residents, Szegeti says illegal housing also puts public servants in danger. The lives of police officers and firefighters could be put at risk when they answer a call for a problem created by illegal housing. South River housing code officials say their crackdown includes fines and even evictions.