Dear Community Friends,
I’m delighted to report that we adopted Mantua Township’s 2024 municipal budget at our June 10 township committee meeting with no tax increase. Our annual budget that consists of 20% of your property tax bill is $16,887,044.36 for this year, with appropriations being reduced by $847,491.46 from the prior year. This budget has 0% tax impact for our residents at the local level. The budgetary goals of our township committee were to maintain financial stability, expand community outreach and engagement, and improve our residents’ quality of life while maintaining the welcoming environment of our community.
Mantua Township has recently received a stellar financial credit rating from Standard & Poor’s that will save money for the taxpayers. S&P Global Ratings is an American Credit Rating Agency. S&P Global Ratings raised our long-term rating from AA- to AA+ after reviewing our municipal finances in preparation for a bond sale. This is a very high rating that indicates that we, as an obligor have a very strong capacity to meet our financial commitments.
The credit agency cited that the upgrade reflects Mantua’s improving economic metrics as a result of the substantial 46% growth in assessed home values following the 2023 revaluation. This along with our stable financial profile and increasing fund balance levels were factors in their decision to increase our rating.
The AA+ rating indicates a steady financial performance and available surplus that remains above 15% of our spending and standard financial policies and practices, including the implementation of a formal cash management plan and surplus policy.
As a result, Mantua Township will face a lower rate of interest when borrowing to fund our projects, thus saving money for taxpayers.
On June 8, Mantua resident and Miss Avalon, Emily Cooney participated in the Miss New Jersey Pageant in Atlantic City. The township committee and I would like to congratulate Emily on placing in the top 11 in this year’s pageant. Emily platform focused on helping veterans of our military. We’re grateful for her efforts and very proud that she’s representing our community with tremendous dignity and honor.
At our June 10 township committee meeting, Jose “Busta” Bustamante was presented with a township proclamation. Jose is an artist and resides in Mantua Township. He recently won the SEI and Philadelphia Phillies Mural Contest. His mural, “Next Generation” is displayed in left-center field above Ashburn Alley at Citizens Bank Park. It was a pleasure to present Jose and his wife, Stephanie with a proclamation recognizing this awesome accomplishment.
On June 12, we held our first senior picnic at the township municipal building complex. We had over 100 senior friends in attendance on a beautiful evening. Our seniors enjoyed hot dogs and hamburgers for dinner that were cooked by our very own Chef Jim Kiel. Water ice was provided by the Water Ice Station. Great work by our recreation committee and all those volunteers who made this a very successful event.
On Tuesday, July 9 between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. we will be partnering with the American Red Cross to hold a blood drive at our township administration building.
One of our dedicated team members, Leah Clemenson is spearheading this exciting initiative for our township. As you may recall, Leah’s younger brother, Matthew was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at just 12 years old back in 2022. After a very courageous battle, he unfortunately passed away on Aug. 1 last year.
Throughout Matthew’s fight, the generosity of blood donors provided crucial support. By continuing this effort, Leah is honoring his memory and the lifesaving generosity of blood donors everywhere. Please join Leah and our team on July 9 and consider donating by signing-up at redcrossblood.org/give.
The township’s summer newsletter will hit mailboxes in the next couple weeks. We’ve been doing quarterly newsletters in order to disseminate township news in a timelier fashion. We hope that this helps to keep you more informed of what’s happening around our community.
The township committee and I want to wish all the great dads throughout our community and very happy Father’s Day.
Upcoming Township Meetings and Events:
- Wednesday, June 19 is Juneteenth holiday: municipal offices closed.
- Thursday, June 20 at 7 p.m.: Fire District Meeting at Union Fire Station.
- Saturday, June 22 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.): Convenience Drop Off Center at the Public Works Garage.
On behalf of Deputy Mayor Pete Scirrotto, myself and the entire township committee – we look forward to continuing our service with honesty, integrity and trustful leadership.
Respectfully,
Mayor Robert T. Zimmerman, MAS
