Brooklawn Mayor Upset with Politicians in Trenton

As for pension exclusions, the cap may be allowed to be increased to 4 percent.

Kirk Applegate, borough auditor, said if the town has enough money in the fund balance and does not replace retired personnel, the restriction may be met.

\”The Borough could also request a waiver from the imposed cap, or go out to a referendum asking the residents for approval to increase the budget amount,\” he said.

If the referendum is put to a vote and approved, then

the Borough can work with the cuts as needed and hope to keep the services and employees.

If the voters turn down the request, then the borough has to work within a 2.5 percent spending cap, according to the auditor.

Soubasis said they have gone to many state department meetings asking for assistance, and never received any good news.

\”They want us to merge with other towns, but we run our town more efficiently than the surrounding communities. There is nothing more to cut in the budget,\” he said.

Brian Schneider of Professional Property Appraisers gave a re-valuation update to the governing body.

He said the re-valuation would not necessary mean increases in property taxes.

\”We will make sure that everyone’s assessment value is fair. Approximately one third of the assessments will go up, one third will go down, and at least one half of the assessments will change,\” he said.

Councilwomen Theresa Branella asked if this is a good time to conduct the assessment. Schneider said it was a good time in a conservative market.

\”This is not being done to increase taxes. The town will be brought up to 100 percent assessment for all properties,\” he said.

An information session will be held for the property owners, and they will also be informed by mail that the appraisers are coming to their home.

Schneider said the square footage of the property, finished basements, pool, and air conditioning are some conditions that will figure in the reassessment.

The new assessments will not go on the tax books until 2011.