Dear Mayor:

In a bit of a history making move, yesterday, the Legislature published on the internet (at http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/changebudgetproposal/changebudgetproposal.asp) a listing of all proposed changes to the Governor’s original budget proposal. The opportunity to propose changes was open to any member of the Legislature, to the State Treasurer (on behalf of the Executive Branch) and to the Administrative Office of the Courts (on behalf of the Judiciary). Working behind the scenes, we were able to secure support for some items important to local government.

 According to Press reports, the Legislature will take public testimony on the changes at hearings to be held tomorrow and on Monday. On Thursday – just one week from today – the Legislature will vote on the State’s annual spending plan.

At this time, it is absolutely essential that your own State Legislators AND LEGISLATIVE LEADERSHIP hear from you in support of changes that will help you and your colleagues all around the state to continue to deliver vital life sustaining and life enhancing services at the lowest possible property tax rate.

Here are some highlights that need your support and positive action.

And two that we should oppose.

The Property Tax Relief Fund (Income Tax) is 100% dedicated to property tax relief. Historically, General Fund revenues have supplemented this. The fund change allows the State to use resources formerly appropriated for property tax relief for other priorities. Though the change results in no net loss this year, it places an additional strain on the property tax relief potential of the PTRF in the future.

We are also concerned about the title change of the Legislative Initiative Block Grant Program (Per Capita Aid), which may give State officials greater discretion in determining, who gets how much of the funding.

                                                                        Very truly yours,

                                                                        William G. Dressel, Jr.
                                                                        Executive Director