Star Ledger - Property Tax Hike Smallest in 6 Years

What does is say about a state and a governor when a key newspaper runs a page one story of government self congratulation for ONLY increasing the Property Tax 5.5 percent. Said the Star Ledger:

In the first test of sweeping property tax reform enacted after a seven-month special legislative session, homeowners taxes rose 5.5 percent this year, the smallest increase in six years but still higher than a 4 percent goal set by Gov. Jon Corzine.

Let's start with the obvious. The legislature identified a problem. Property taxes are too high. They decided to try to fix it. So their goal going in was...drum roll...higher property taxes but not quite as high. That is a joke. Their initial goal was not to reduce taxes but to make them not grow as much? I do not see how any Senate or Assembly member could possibly face their constituents after that complete lack of seriousness.

Let me give a practical example. If my roof started leaking 6 years ago and has been getting worse each year I would have to address it. I make a plan to fix the problem and decide on a new roof. The entire process takes 7 months. If ONE DROP leaks through that roof when it is done, THE ENTIRE PROJECT WAS A FAILURE! Just imagine if while placing the buckets on the floor to catch the water I tell my wife...Honey, we used to have 8 buckets down and now we have just 5. And I set a goal of 4 so I was really close. What do you think my wife would say to that?

You can read the entire article here.

Here is a suggestion to our illustrious state legislators.
Step 1. Identify the problem: Property Taxes are too high.
Step 2. Identify the Obective: Reduce Property Taxes by 10 percent
Step 3. Create an action plan to solve it.

Some ideas: Look at every level of spending. Stop expanding the public payroll. Analyse our assistance programs and prioritize them. We don't need to be the most generous state in EVERY category. Restructure the state debt. Stop Borrowing more money to add to the debt.

It's time to grow up Mr. Governor and the Legislature. This is going to take Big Boy and Big Girl decisions. Are you up to it?

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