Mount Laurel council approved for the third consecutive year a budget with no increase in municipal taxes during its regular meeting on April 4.
According to the township, municipal taxes for residents make up approximately 12 percent of the total tax bill, with the local tax rate at $0.352. County taxes account for 14 percent of taxes at a tax rate of $0.416. Regional schools take 25 percent of taxes at a rate of $0.763, and local schools account for 39 percent at a tax rate of $1.179.
In an announcement release, Mayor Kareem Pritchett emphasized the township’s delight at being able to approve a 2022 fiscal-year budget with no increases or cuts to taxpayer services.
“Township council and management are proud to pass a budget that presents no municipal tax increase, no cuts to services, and ensures the quality of life for residents,” he said. “We couldn’t be more thrilled that we are able to pass this budget for the taxpayers in town.”
Councilwoman Karen Cohen thanked officials for the budget and commended both the mayor and deputy mayor for their organization and their efforts in bringing the town together by way of numerous community events.
“Thanks to Mayor Pritchett and Deputy Mayor (Stephen) Steglik for making sure our residents continue to benefit from our efficient government while bringing more community events than ever before,” she said.
Cohen also recognized council’s authorization for the township to buy 46.9 acres of land for open space. The property to be acquired is Block 800, Lots 3 and 4 – commonly referred to as the Back 40. With council’s approval, the township can now secure the missing link to connect multiple areas of open space.
“(This) is a big thing because it is going to complete an unbroken swap of land for people to be able to go through without having to get in a car and drive around the development,” Cohen explained.
“I know a lot of residents asked for walking trails, and now we’ll be able to put more trails in these areas.”
Steglik commended Township Manager Meredith Tomczyk and her team for putting the budget together.
“(Tomczyk is) a whiz when it comes to finances, numbers and money,” he remarked. “It’s really remarkable to be able to work alongside somebody like that and your entire team is (the same way).”
In other news:
- Council approved a resolution authorizing the township to accept a subgrant of the federal fiscal year 2021 emergency management performance grant and emergency management agency assistance.
- Council also approved a resolution authorizing township police to transfer ownership of K-9 equipment to the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office.
The next council meeting will be held on Monday, April 18.
