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Mayor Dalina and Township Council Introduce 2021 Budget with Modest Tax Decrease

Mayor Recognizes Pandemic Challenges and Takes Action

MONROE TOWNSHIP, N.J.  – May 10, 2021 – Monroe Township Mayor Stephen Dalina and Township Council have introduced a 2021 municipal budget that included a modest tax decrease.  The proposed budget reduces the municipal tax rate from $.493 to $.490 per $100 assessed value and will be presented for public hearing at the June 2 Township Council meeting.  As part of the new budget, water and sewer rates will remain the same. 

“This has been an extraordinary and unprecedented year for everyone and the pandemic has caused most of us to have to tighten our belts a bit.  The township budget is no different,” said Mayor Stephen Dalina.  “As your new mayor, I have painstakingly evaluated our balance sheet and made the adjustments necessary to develop a responsible budget proposal that reflects the current economic reality.” 

Among the factors that led to the modest tax decrease were a 23 percent reduction in the township’s statutory debt over the past five years, resulting in a $357,000 decline in the township’s debt service.  With the help of a strong AA+ bond rating, the township is refinancing previous bonds this month and expects to save an additional $136,000 annually and $1.5 million over the duration of the loans.  The township also aggressively pursued federal CARES ACT funding which helped keep tax rates down and provided a modest surplus increase.

The township initiated a hiring freeze last year during the height of pandemic shut-downs and many non-essential positions were furloughed.  The township also was able to reduce expenses when programs and services were impacted by Covid-19 restrictions.  Many of these programs are being reintroduced in this budget. 

“I want to recognize the turmoil and uncertainty our residents faced this past year in the face of the pandemic and resulting economic uncertainty. Remarkably, the township achieved a 99% tax collection rate, which helps keep taxes low,” said Mayor Dalina.  “I would also like to thank the Township Council for their input and participation in the budgeting process as we continue to work together to navigate the pandemic, manage resources and maintain valuable services to our residents.”

Under the proposed plan, the average taxpayer whose house is assessed at $320,410 would pay $1,569 in municipal property taxes.  

“This budget year is considerably important as we prepare for the future of our township,” said Mayor Dalina who noted that this budget cycle will fund the township master plan process, in 2021.  “There is nothing more important to our township than engaging all our residents as we plan for our future.” 

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All media inquiries may be directed to the Monroe Township’s Public Information Officer Stacey Kennedy at 732-521-4400 or skennedy@monroetwp.com.