There will be no tax levy increase in the Cherry Hill Township 2013 fiscal year budget.
Mayor Chuck Cahn addressed the budget process at the Monday, Sept. 10 council meeting, calling it a “responsible plan for our taxpayers.”
This was his first budget as Cherry Hill mayor.
The budget was the result of months of work, beginning in late spring, by the department heads.
According to township spokeswoman Bridget Palmer, there were no staffing cuts made in the budget. Instead, Cahn focused on utilizing existing resources and making sure they are allocated most effectively.
The highlights of the budget, Cahn said, are savings on trash, recycling, utilities and aggressive negotiations on medical insurance costs.
There are savings on debt service, police overtime through staffing efficiencies and technological upgrades and increased revenue from residential and commercial permits and infrastructure, he said.
The township is looking for grant opportunities and shared services opportunities, with a $130,000 savings alone to come from the recent Camden County shared services agreement on trash disposal, he said.
Cahn’s focuses are innovation, transformation and economic fidelity to make smart decisions, operate efficiently and effectively.
“After all, our families and businesses are part of what makes Cherry Hill a special place to live and work,” he said.
The tax levy was flat last in 2010, said Palmer, and the budget for 2013 is $65,246,228.
Council members unanimously authorized the budget.
Councilwoman Jacquelene Silver thanked Cahn for the “fiscally sound” budget.
“It was well documented,” said Councilman Jim Bannar.
“It’s very difficult to do,” he added.
Councilwoman Susan Shin Angulo expressed that she appreciated the hard work.
“It’s been extremely thorough and precise,” she said.
And, according to Councilman N. John Amato, the budget is the icing on the cake for Cahn over the last eight months.
“We have seen such wonderful changes to the betterment of Cherry Hill,” he said. “Let’s look forward to a wonderful and a prosperous 2013.”
The budget holds the line on taxes and is designed to help the quality of life for the Cherry Hill community, said Council President David Fleisher.
“I’m proud to support this budget,” he said.
At the meeting, Cahn encouraged residents to call his office at (856) 488–7878 or send an email to MayorCahn@chtownship.com with any comments or concerns, as feedback is beneficial.
The budget can be viewed online at http://www.cherryhill-nj.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=798.
Other business
Banner gave a friendly reminder that school has recently commenced and many children are traveling on the streets.
“Please use caution when traveling through the neighborhoods,” he said, and avoid speeding.
Councilwoman Melinda Kane had the opportunity recently to attend the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C.
Kane reported that she heard nothing but praise for the local community from meeting with more than 200 people there representing the state.
“I was really proud to represent Cherry Hill,” she said.
The next meeting of the council will be held on Monday, Sept. 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the N. John Amato Council Chambers, Room 208, 820 Mercer St.
