Reply #7: I'll read up on it [View All]

[ramapo]

NJ property taxes are used to fund local and county governments and most significantly schools. These taxes have skyrocketed over the past 20 years as the federal and state governments have shifted costs down to the local level. The big deal made by governors, senators, and presidents about cutting our taxes is really empty rhetoric because the overall tax burden has only increased over the years. We all know which sectors have seen their taxes decrease, the very wealthy and business.

People are of course angry about their taxes but NJ is the epitome of home rule. The state has around 500+ municipalities. My county has more than 70. Each has its own police, fire, DPW, school, etc. infrastructures. The costs are tremendous. My county has more fire equipment than New York City to fight a fraction of the number of fires.
Talk of consolidation or a move to regional(county) government is akin to treason. But this is one of the few ways to cut costs.

People want the services but don't want to pay. Now we're paying a larger share while businesses reap higher profits.