Municipal taxes will increase only slightly for property owners.
The Hazlet Township Committee adopted a $21.3 million municipal budget on June 23 with a municipal tax increase of less than one percent. The municipal tax rate has been lowered. The 2020 budget represents a commitment to fiscal responsibility in the post-COVID 19 economy.
"Despite the difficulties of the pandemic and decreased revenues, the Township Committee has worked hard to find ways to upgrade Hazlet’s assets and infrastructure while maintaining services," said Mayor Mike Glackin. "This budget aims to continue our commitment to the town-wide road restoration project, start a renovation of the police headquarters and improve communications with citizens.
New Jersey’s economy has been hit hard from economic damage caused by the pandemic shutdown. The budget reflects the impact of diminished revenues due to the pandemic and the need to increase the reserve for uncollected taxes, as well as prepare for a potential reduction in state aid. The township has also embarked on a thorough, yearlong reevaluation of all 2020 expenses and has applied for local, state and federal grants.
The $21.3 million budget calls includes $14.7 million to be raised through taxation. The owner of a typical house in Hazlet assessed at $339,000 will pay $1,905 in municipal taxes, up from $1885, an increase of $20.
The municipal tax rate will fall 4.4 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, to 56.2 cents.
Municipal taxes represent 22 percent of a Hazlet property owner’s total tax bill. Board of Education taxes account for 63 percent, Monmouth County taxes 11 percent, Special Districts 3 percent and Open Space .4 percent.
Other key goals of the budget:
- To expand the application of recently purchased technology such as CivicEngage and CivicReady to automate processes and obtain feedback on service and non-emergency related issues
- Complete the new Natco building project
- Acquire new technology to improve efficiency in all departments, streamline essential services, increase customer convenience, and expand communications outreach.
- Renovate the Cullen Center and make improvements to Natco Park and Veterans Park.
The public may review Hazlet’s 2020 municipal budget and other financial documents on the Finance Department webpage. There is also a budget presentation (PDF) that describes with graphics how tax dollars are spent.