GCity Residents Challenge Council on Proposed Tax Increase

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (April 8, 1982)–Two Gloucester City residents confronted Mayor William E. Gartland and City Council during the April 8, 1982 meeting, questioning what taxpayers would gain from a proposed nine‑cent increase in the municipal tax rate.

Former Fire Chief James Durkin asked council members what additional services residents could expect if the tax rate rose from 43 cents to 52 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. Durkin noted that his seashore home — taxed at a lower rate — received three trash collections per week, while Gloucester City had reduced its schedule to once weekly.

Mayor Gartland responded that the increase was necessary simply to maintain existing services. He said he doubted the city could restore twice‑weekly trash collection given rising costs.

Durkin also criticized the condition of Brown Street, citing potholes and deteriorating railroad crossings. He blamed Conrail for resurfacing work done two years earlier that had since broken down. The discussion continued as Councilman Fred Anzide pressed Durkin for details about the community he referenced. Durkin confirmed that the town had a paid fire company, paid ambulance drivers, and a library. When Anzide asked whether it was a full‑time community, Durkin replied, “It is six and six.” Anzide responded, “Oh — it is only a part‑time community.”

Another resident, Anthony Ruggeri of Lambert Avenue, voiced his frustration with the proposed increase.

“Taxes are always going up,” Ruggeri said. “We are paying more and getting fewer services. It is easy for you to sit there and always say yes. I have yet to hear one councilman ever dispute another one. Everything is automatic. I feel we are getting taxation without representation, and furthermore you people are doing a lousy job.”

Councilman Anzide defended the process.

“If you know how government works, then you are aware that many long hours are spent putting together a budget,” he said. “Our budget went up only five percent this year, yet we are faced with rising costs. Last year it cost $37,000 to dump trash; this year it will cost $75,000. We have a built‑in minimum increase of seven percent for city workers and mandated costs such as workers’ compensation.”

Anzide added that residents should appreciate a council that works together rather than “running a three‑ring circus.”

Ruggeri replied, “I am entitled to my opinion the same as you.”

(SOURCE)Gloucester City News, published April 8, 1982/written by William E. Cleary Sr