HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 1:

Senator James S. Cafiero (Republican)

Assemblyman Nicholas Asselta (Republican)

Assemblyman Jeff Van Drew (Democrat)

CAPE MAY

§         3.4-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value

§         $34 increase in school taxes for average homeowner.

CAPE MAY POINT

• 0.029-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed value.
• 29 cent tax increase for average homeowner.

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DENNIS TOWNSHIP

• The Board of Education introduced a $12.7 million budget with a 27-cent tax increase.
• Seven cents of the 27 cents will go toward paying the $5.7 million bond that voters approved last year.
• A tuition increase at Middle Township High School and the need to replenish the district's surplus triggered the increases.
• The school district applied more than $400,000 of surplus money to its budget last year, and officials said they have to make up the difference this year.
• Renegotiated teacher contracts and higher utility and insurance costs also account for the increase in expenses.
• The district's tax rate would climb from $1.21 per $100 of assessed property to $1.48. The amount to be raised by taxes has gone up by $1 million since last year.

MAURICE RIVER

• 10-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value
• Using almost all of its surplus
• 19 percent increase in health care costs
• 30 percent increase in insurance costs

MIDDLE TOWNSHIP

• 15.5-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed value.
• Owner of a home assessed at $100,000 would pay $154.40 more in school taxes.

MILLVILLE

• 15-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed value in this Abbott district.
• $95 tax increase for the owner of an average ($66,000) home.

• $82.7 million budget has an $11.9 million revenue shortfall.

NORTH WILDWOOD

§         3-cent tax increase, to a total of 80.1 cents per $100 of assessed value.

§         School taxes on a $100,000 home would increase by $31.80.

§         Salaries, benefits, transportation and tuition costs grew.

OCEAN CITY

§         3-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed value.

§         Owner of a $100,000 home would pay about $580 in school taxes.

SEA ISLE CITY

§         .009-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         Estimated tax rate is $.312

SOMERS POINT

Mainland Regional High School

• Tax bill for a property assessed at $100,000 will increase by $33, to $651.

Somers Point Board of Education

§         5.5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value

§         $55 tax increase for the owner of a $100,000 home.

§         Increases in health insurance, property insurance and staff salaries.

UPPER TOWNSHIP

• $660 - School tax increase for home of average value
• Proposed budget reflects $41,000 in cuts for the K-8 district's programs and a $1.3 million increase for tuition to Ocean City H.S. The township committee is providing $2 million to defray tax increases.

VINELAND

§         No tax increase or staff cuts in this Abbott district.

§         But district will cut costs, reduce programs and ask the state for supplemental aid to close a projected $11 million deficit.

§         Summer programs for more than 700 students are being eliminated.

§         Maintenance budget is cut in half.

WOODBINE

• Proposed 19-cent tax hike, to $1.47 per $100 of assessed value.
• $180 increase in taxes for owner of a $100,000 home, for a $1,470 average

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 2:

Senator William L. Gormley (Republican)

Assemblyman Francis J. Blee (Republican)

Assemblyman Paul R. D’Amato (Republican)

ATLANTIC CITY

§         Regular budget raises the general tax levy but does not include a tax rate increase. If a separate question is approved allowing the district to exceed its cap by $3.5 million, the owner of a $50,000 home would pay an extra $25 a year in school taxes.

§         If the cap question is defeated, the district may have to lay off 14 employees, cut some high school sports and eliminate elementary school programs.

§         Basic budget keeps the tax rate at 99 cents per $100 of assessed value, but if the cap waiver question is approved, the school tax rate would climb 4 cents.

CORBIN CITY

• 40.3-cent tax hike per $100 of assessed value.
• $400 tax increase for owner of $100,000 home.
• Tuition increases cited for increase in costs.

EGG HARBOR CITY

§         16.6-cent rise in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         Virtually no surplus in reserve.

§         Coupled with a proposed 11.5-cent municipal tax boost, that would bring the total local proposed tax rate increase for next year to 28.1 cents – a combined increase of $281, tot a total of $3,283, on a $100,000 home.

EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP

• 22.3-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed value.
• $223 tax increase for average homeowner.
• Rising enrollment: 332 between 2000-2002 and another 467 expected next year.

GALLOWAY

§         3.7-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value

§         3.2 percent increase in taxes.

§         $37 school tax increase for owner of a $100,000 home.

§         Tax rate reflects new ratables and lower surplus.

§         Second question seeks funds for field trips and custodians. If approved, it would raise the tax increase to 4.6 cents per $100 of assessed value and add $46 to the average homeowner’s tax bill.

HAMILTON

• 6-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed value
• $76 tax hike for average homeowner
• State aid freeze cited.

LINWOOD

Mainland Regional High School

• Tax bill for a property assessed at $100,000 will increase $54, to $634.

Linwood Board of Education

• 4.9-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $49 tax increase for owner of a $100,000 home.
• Escalating cost of employee benefits cited.

MULLICA TOWNSHIP

• 5.5-cent increase per $100 of assessed value
• $55 tax hike on a $100,000 home.
• Result of higher teacher salaries and a 40 percent increase in insurance costs

NORTHFIELD

Mainland Regional High School

• Tax bill for a property assessed at $100,000 will increase by $38, to $572.

Northfield Board of Education

• 7-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value
• $70 tax increase for average homeowner.
• Rising out-of-district tuition and transportation for special education students.

WEYMOUTH

• 2.2-cent increase in the local school tax rate.
• District cites salary increases and higher insurance and health benefits.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 3:

Senator Stephen M. Sweeney (Democrat)

Assemblyman John J. Burzichelli (Democrat)

Assemblyman Douglas H. Fisher (Democrat)

BRIDGETON

• Abbott district that is eliminating 73 positions to avoid a tax increase – three assistant principals, nine supervisors, 18 teachers, three tutors, one computer technician, seven security monitors, two building substitutes, 10 secretaries and 20 instructional aides.

CAREYS POINT TOWNSHIP

§         Citing budget shortfalls, the Board of Education discontinues funding for D.A.R.E.

COMMERCIAL TOWNSHIP

• 18-cent increase in school taxes per $100 of assessed value.
• $81.50 tax increase for average homeowner
• Used $552,950 from surplus
• Employee health benefits up 25 percent
• Higher insurance and transportation costs.

DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP

Cumberland Regional High School

• 5.78-cent increase per $100 of assessed value.

Deerfield Township Board of Education

• 23-cent tax hike per $100 of assessed value
• $230 tax increase for owner of $100,000 home

EAST GREENWICH TOWNSHIP

Kingsway Regional School District

• 23-cent tax increase, to a total of 91 cents per each $100 of assessed value.
• Owner of an average $139,382 home could expect to pay about $1,268 for regional school taxes.

ELMER

• If budget and second question seeking funds to restore cut programs are approved, the tax rate would soar from $1.49 to $2.08 per $100 of assessed value, a 59-cent increase.
• Owner of a $100,000 home would pay $2,080 in school taxes.

ELSINBORO TOWNSHIP

§         35-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         Rising tuition and health care costs cited as reasons for the increase.

FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP

Cumberland Regional High School

• 2.15-cent increase

GREENWICH TOWNSHIP

Cumberland Regional High School

• 30-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

Greenwich Township Board of Education

§         3.2-cent hike in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $32 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.

§         Rising insurance costs and health benefits cited.

HARRISON

Clearview Regional School District

§         9.3-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

Harrison Township Board of Education

§         13.5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         Cites increased enrollment.

HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP

Cumberland Regional High School

• 6.16-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP

§         7-cent increase in the tax rate per each $100 of assessed value.

§         $388,000 taken from surplus.

§         Higher salaries, health care, insurance and special education costs cited.

MANTUA TOWNSHIP

Mantua Township Board of Education

• 15-cent tax hike, to $1.18 per $100 of assessed value
• $175 tax increase for owner of a $113,490 home, for an average of $1,338
• Increase in staff benefits and rising energy costs cited

Clearview Regional Board of Education

• 9.8-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

PILESGROVE

• 5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

QUINTON TOWNSHIP

§         24-cent increase in the school tax rate per each $100 of assessed value.

§         3 percent school tax increase.

§         20 percent insurance hike.

§         $260,000 tuition increase.

SHILOH

§         The proposed tax rate is $1.43 per $100 in property assessment, a 23-cent increase.

SOUTH HARRISON TOWNSHIP

Kingsway Regional School District

§         27-cent increase in school taxes, to about 98 cents per $100 of assessed value.

§         Owner of an average $177,676 home could expect to pay $1,741 in regional school taxes.

STOW CREEK TOWNSHIP

Cumberland Regional High School

• 3.86-cent increase

SWEDESBORO

Kingsway Regional School District

• 27-cent tax increase, to about 97 cents per $100 of assessed value.
• Owner of an $87,701 home could expect to pay about $850 for regional school taxes.

UPPER DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP

Cumberland Regional High School

• 2.68-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

Local Board of Education

• 2-cent increase in the tax rate, bringing it to 8.5 cents per $100 of assessed value

UPPER PITTSGROVE TOWNSHIP

§         Property owners here could see a 9-cent increase to their school tax rate.

§         If voters support this budget in the April 16 school board election, it would result in the school tax rate rising to $1.77 per $100 of assessed property value.

§         The owner of a property assessed at $100,000 would pay $1,770 in school taxes.

§         Approximately $58,000 will be taken from the district's surplus to balance the budget. This translates into a tax rate savings of 4 cents.

§         The district expects healthcare expenses to rise approximately $78,000, which is a 20 percent to 25 percent increase.

• The recently-approved teacher contract should also drive this year's tax increase. Full-time teachers in the kindergarten through eighth-grade district will receive a pay raise of 4 percent each year for the duration of the three-year contract.

WEST DEPTFORD TOWNSHIP

• 6.9-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $74 tax increase for the average homeowner.

WOODSTOWN

• 5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

WOOLWICH TOWNSHIP

Kingsway Regional School District

• 22-cent tax increase, to about 78 cents per $100 of assessed value.
• Owner of a $161,082 home could expect to pay about $1,256 for regional school taxes.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 4:

Senator John J. Matheussen (Republican)

Assemblyman George F. Geist (Republican)

Assemblyman Robert J. Smith (Democrat)

GLASSBORO

§         6.3-cent increase in the school tax rate per each $100 of assessed value.

§         $64 tax increase for the owner of an average home.

§         Increases attributed to higher labor, transportation and special education costs.

MONROE

• $190 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner if the budget and secondary question passes.
• Does not factor in an 11-cent increase from the approved expansion of the middle school slated to take effect in the 2003-04 school year.
• 16-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value under the budget.
• 18-cent increase in the school tax rate if the second question is approved.
• Enrollment expected to increase by about 4 percent, or 300 students.
• Budget eliminates two elementary Spanish teachers, one of three elementary guidance counselors, after school and activity buses and technology spending.
• A second question seeks $445,146 to restore the cuts.

PITMAN

• $161 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.
• 15.1-cent increase in school tax rate per each $100 of assessed value.
• No surplus appropriated for 2002-03
• Wood shop eliminated
• Health insurance increased 22 percent.
• Property liability insurance increased 33 percent.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

§         The average township homeowner could get hit with nearly $200 in additional school taxes.

§         The school budget calls for a 13.8-cent school tax increase, bringing the tax rate to $1.96 per $100 of assessed property value.

§         At the $1.96 rate, the owner of house assessed at the township average of $124,723 could expect to pay approximately $2,444, exclusive of local purpose and county taxes. Last year, the average homeowner paid about $2,250 -- or $194 less -- in school taxes.

§         Enrollments rose by 133 this year and are expected to rise 92 more this year.

§         Utility and transportation costs are up.

§         Costs include $1.8 million more for insurance and $879,000 more for special education.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 5:

Senator Wayne R. Bryant (Democrat)

Assemblyman Joseph J. Roberts (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Nilsa Cruz-Perez (Democrat)

DEPTFORD

§         A nearly 30 percent rise in school taxes.

§         36-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed valuation.

§         $360 tax increase for the owner of a $100,000 home.

§         Contributing to the tax increase are a freeze in state aid, increased special education costs, a new pre-kindergarten program and the beginning of debt service payments for a school bond issue approved last year.

§         Superintendent termed the budget "disasterous."

WOODBURY

§         17.5-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed valuation.

§         $161 tax increase for average homeowner.

§         Second question would add 10.59 cents more to the tax rate, for a total of $97.52 more for the average homeowner.

§         Second question seeks to raise $794,562 to preserve 16 school staff jobs and activities. If it is rejected, art, music and basic skills teaching positions would be eliminated.

§         Activities such as junior high sports would be dropped.

§         Board said state aid freeze and double-digit increases in employee health insurance and workers compensation forced what was described as a "tragic" ballot question.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 6:

Senator John Adler (Democrat)

Assemblyman Louis D. Greenwald (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Mary T. Previte (Democrat)

CHERRY HILL

• Tax rate will jump 6 percent.
• Owner of a home assessed at $140,000, the township average, would pay about $181 more annually.
• 12.9-cent increase in the tax rate for each $100 of assessed value
• Rising enrollment.
• More than 20 percent increase in insurance costs.

CHESILHURST

§         Average homeowner will pay almost $560 in additional school taxes.

§         56 percent school tax increase.

§         Bulk of tax increase is related to special education costs.

HADDONFIELD

• 8 percent tax increase
• $359 tax hike for owner of a $220,000 home
• 16-cent increase in tax rate, from $2.05 to about $2.21 per $100 of assessed value
• Spending plan would slash the jobs of about half the teaching assistant who aren’t in special education, eliminate the middle school’s home economics program, eliminate the elementary school Spanish teacher.
• Tax increase includes a second question requesting $295,043 to restore some programs, services and positions that would otherwise be cut.

PINE HILL

• $884.80 tax increase for average homeowner (on a $79,000 home)
• $1.10 increase in the tax rate to about $3.23 per $100 of assessed value
• If three separate ballot questions are approved, average tax bill would climb an extra $280
• Enrollment has risen 200 additional students.

WATERFORD

• The average homeowner would pay almost $223 in additional school taxes.
• The board of education's plan for a 10.7 percent school tax increase is partly due to costs related to last year's dissolution of the Lower Camden County School District
• The school district's spending plan would raise the tax rate by 19.9 cents to $2.06 per $100 of assessed value. That means the owner of a home assessed at $112,000, the township average, would pay $2,307 in school taxes next year, an increase of $223.

WINSLOW

§         $494 tax increase for average homeowner.

§         49.4-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         33 percent tax increase.

§         160 jobs eliminated - 51 teaching positions

§         Larger class size.

§         If second question is defeated, an additional 27 teaching jobs will be cut.

§         If second question is approved, tax rate would increase 36 percent, by an additional 4 cents per $100 of assessed value. Tax bill would go up about $540.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 7:

Senator Diane Allen (Republican)

Assemblyman Herb Conaway, MD (Democrat)

Assemblyman Jack Conners (Democrat)

BURLINGTON CITY

• Abbott district, no increase in tax rate. But spending is up 4.1 percent – because of whole school reform, enrollment increases and preschool.
• Staff may be reduced if the state rejects a request for $976,936 in additional funding.
• Cuts would include 12 staff positions, including tutors, new hires and technology specialists.

BURLINGTON TOWNSHIP

• Typical homeowner will pay an additional $219 in school taxes under the proposed budget.
• Tax rate would increase by 17.5 cents.
• Owner of a home assessed at $125,000, the township average, would pay $1.74 on each $100 of assessed value.
• Average homeowner would pay $2,181.25 a year in school taxes, up $219 for last year.
• District has recorded an 18 percent increase in special education enrollment.

CINNAMINSON

• $160 tax increase for typical homeowner ($136,000 home), to $2,795 a year
• 11.75-cent tax hike to $2.052 cents per $100 of assessed value
• Special education costs cited

DELANCO

• $168 tax hike for the owner of a $100,000 home, for a total of $1,984
• 16.8-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value, to $1.98
• Higher tuition costs and 20 percent increase in health insurance and 5 percent increase in salaries
• Full time custodian and four part time summer maintenance workers eliminated

EASTAMPTON

Rancocas Valley Regional HS

• 5.2-cent increase in tax rate to 41.9 cents per $100 of assessed value
• $68 more in taxes on a $130,000 home

HAINESPORT

Rancocas Valley Regional HS

• 2.9-cent increase in tax rate to 33.4 cents per $100 of assessed value
• $40 more in taxes on a $130,000 home

LUMBERTON

Rancocas Valley Regional HS

• 4.9-cent increase in tax rate to 32.5 cents per $100 of assessed value
• $69 more in taxes on a $140,000 home

MAPLE SHADE

• $141 tax hike for owner of a $95,401 home, for a total of $1,850
• 14-cent jump in tax rate per $100 of assessed value, to $1.94
• Cuts include a high school English teacher, elementary school psychologist, an in-school suspension teacher at the higher school, a 1^st and 4^th grade teacher and supplemental instruction teacher at the elementary level.
• Increase in special ed students
• High school day cut from eight periods to seven.
• Before- and after-school reading program eliminated at the elementary school

MOUNT HOLLY

Rancocas Valley Regional HS

• 3.6-cent increase in tax rate to 44.6 cents per $100 of assessed value
• $28 more in taxes for owner of a $77,000 home

PENNSAUKEN

§         $93.52 tax increase for the average homeowner

§         Budget would close the Burling Magnet School.

RIVERSIDE

• The average homeowner would pay $28 more in local school taxes under a $14.85 million tentative budget approved by the Board of Education.
• The proposed budget increases the local school tax rate 3.2 cents, from last year's rate of $1.49 on each $100 of assessed property value to $1.522.
• Under the proposed budget, the owner of a home assessed at $89,900, the township average, would pay $1,368 in school taxes this year, up from $1,340.
• Increases in expenditures included a 27 percent rise in district liability insurance that pushed costs from $46,700 to $59,650 and a 6 percent increase in group health insurance, which went from $1.47 million to $1.56 million.

WESTAMPTON

Rancocas Valley Regional HS

• 5.5-cent increase in tax rate to 38.6 cents per $100 of assessed value
• $71 more in taxes for owner of a $130,000 home

WILLINGBORO

§         District is using surplus funds and replacing higher-paid teachers with new teachers at lower salaries to avoid a tax increase.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 8:

Senator Martha W. Bark (Republican)

Assemblyman Francis L. Bodine (Republican)

Assemblyman Larry Chatzikakis (Republican)

EVESHAM

Lenape Regional High School District

• Tax rate would rise by 10.4 cents per $100 of assessed value.

Evesham Board of Education

• Average homeowner would pay an additional $53 a year in taxes.
• Tax rate would rise 3.8 cents, from $1.475 to $1.513 per $100 of assessed value.
• Owner of a home assessed at the township average of $142,000 would pay about $2,148 in local school taxes.

LUMBERTON TOWNSHIP

• $131 tax increase for the owner of an average home
• 8.9-cent increase in the tax rate per each $100 of assessed value
• 8.4% percent tax increase
• Proposed budget calls for level programming.

MANSFIELD

Northern Burlington Regional School District

• 5-cent tax hike to 75.9 cents per $100 of assessed value.
• $75 tax hike for owner of $150,000 home, for $1,080 average.

Mansfield Board of Education

• Budget will necessitate a 20-cent increase in the current tax rate of 91 cents on each $100 of assessed property value.
• Owner of a home assessed at $150,000, the township average, would pay about $1,665 in local school taxes, an increase of $300.
• If voters approve a special question asking for an additional $485,000 to support world language classes, library programs, after-school tutoring and class trips, the tax rate would rise another 10 cents. A typical homeowner would pay $150 more.
• If the budget and special question are approved, the tax rate would be $1.21 on each $100 of assessed value. The average homeowner would pay $1,815 in school taxes, an increase of $450.
• District is undergoing rising enrollment and increased insurance costs.

MEDFORD

Medford Board of Education

• Average homeowner will pay almost $370 more a year in local school taxes.
• School tax rate would climb by 2.7 cents per $100 of assessed value
• With the 16.5 cents per $100 added from the approval of a $47.5 million school construction bond in January, the total school tax rate will be $1.64, which would cost the owner of a home assessed at $192,400, the township average, $3,155.36 a year in local school taxes – a $369.41 increase.

Lenape Regional High School District

• Tax rate would rise by 6.6 cents for each $100 of assessed value to support the high school.

MEDFORD LAKES

Lenape Regional High School District

• Tax rate would increase 6.5 cents for each $100 of assessed value to support the high school.

Medford Lakes Board of Education

• The average homeowner here is facing an additional $246 a year in local school taxes to cover increased district costs and the debt service for old and new district bonds.
• The district's total proposed budget is $4,865,080, $3,458,603 of which would be raised by local school taxes.
• The numbers represent a 4-percent increase over last year in the tax levy and 6.5-percent increase in the total school budget.
• Under the proposed 2002-03 budget's ax rate of $1.504, an increase of 5.8 cents, the average homeowner would pay $2,256 in local school taxes.
• However, a $5 million bond referendum passed in January will add 10 cents per $100 of assessed property value to the current debt service tax rate of 13 cents, bringing that total to 23 cents.
• Therefore, the average homeowner would pay a total local school-tax rate of $1.74, for a total bill of $2,610, an increase of $246 over last year.

MOORESTOWN

• $117 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.
• 7-cent increase in the tax rate for each $100 of assessed value.
• 3.4 percent increase in taxes.
• Proposed budget will fund 17 new positions created in response to enrollment growth. It will convert behind-the-wheel driver education to a fee basis and eliminate a family/consumer arts program in 4th grade.
• Second ballot questions, for athletic fields, would raise taxes an additional $39 a year, or an additional 1.9 cents per $100 of assessed value.
• Increases attributed to rising special education costs, spiking health and insurance coverage costs and salary increases.

MOUNT LAUREL

Mount Laurel Board of Education

• $129 tax increase, to about $1,769
• 9.5-cent increase in tax rate to $1.29 per $100 of assessed value
• 8 percent tax increase.
• Rising enrollment. Higher teacher salaries. Higher insurance costs.

Lenape Regional High School District

• Tax rate would rise by 8.5 cents per $100 of assessed value to support the regional high school.

PEMBERTON BOROUGH

• 3.6-cent tax hike, to $2.43 per $100 of assessed value
• $32 increase in taxes for the owner of a $90,000 home, for a $2,151 average total
• Sending 7^th and 8^th graders to Pemberton Township otherwise tax hike would have been 30 cents.

PEMBERTON TOWNSHIP

§         An Abbott District, proposed budget has a $4 million shortfall.

§         The tax rate will be $1.326 per $100 of assessed value, up from $1.312 last year.

§         $12 tax increase for the average homeowner.

§         Major increases cited are salaries, insurance and health benefits.

SHAMONG TOWNSHIP

Shamong Board of Education

• $152 increase in taxes for average homeowner
• 9-cent increase in the tax rate for each $100 of assessed value
• Proposed budget maintains current programming

Lenape Regional High School District

• Tax rate will increase by 11.1 cents per $100 of assessed value

SOUTHAMPTON

• Average homeowner will pay about $53 more in school taxes.
• Tax rate will increase by 4.6 cents per $100 of assessed value.
• Under the proposed tax rate of $1.41 per $100 of assessed value, the owner of a home assessed at the township average of $107,000 would pay a total of $1,508 in local school taxes.

SPRINGFIELD

Northern Burlington Regional School District

§         11.7-cent increase in tax rate, to 89 cents per $100 of assessed value

§         $175 tax hike for owner of a $150,000 home, for an average of $1,335

Springfield Board of Education

§         3.8-cent increase in the tax rate for every $100 of assessed value

§         $57 tax hike for owner of an average $150,000 home.

§         Salary and insurance increases cited.

TABERNACLE TOWNSHIP

Tabernacle Board of Education

• $171 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.
• 9.5-cent increase in the tax rate per each $100 of assessed value.
• 7.8 percent increase in taxes
• Proposed budget reflects phase-out of program for the hearing impaired.
• Board is proposed a second ballot question for a new roof.

Lenape Regional High School District

• Tax rate will increase from 59.2 cents to 70.7 cents per $100 of assessed value, a 11.5-cent increase.
• Owner of a home assessed at $100,000 would pay $115 more in taxes to the regional district.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 9:

Senator Leonard T. Connors Jr. (Republican)

Assemblyman Christopher J. Connors (Republican)

Assemblyman Jeffrey W. Moran (Republican)

BARNEGAT

• 7.5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $79 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.
• $1 million rise in tuition payments to Southern Regional High School.
• District was anticipating an additional $643,000 in state aid.

BARNEGAT LIGHT

Southern Regional Board of Education

• 13.3-cent tax increase, to 47.3 cents

BASS RIVER TOWNSHIP

• 5.9 percent increase in the tax levy.
• 6.4-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $64 increase in taxes for the owner of a $100,000 home.

BEACH HAVEN

Southern Regional Board of Education

• 2.3-cent increase to 53.1 cents

EAGLESWOOD TOWNSHIP

§         4.2 percent rise in the tax levy.

§         3.9-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $39 increase in taxes for the owner of a $100,000 home.

HAMMONTON

• 13-cent increase in the tax rate
• $130 tax hike for owner of a $100,000 home.
• Increase in class size by two to four
• 230 new students

HARVEY CEDARS

Southern Regional Board of Education

• 3.8-cent increase to 48.2 cents

LACEY TOWNSHIP

§         17.9-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed valuation.

§         $240 tax increase for the average household.

§         The Board of Education has said that a freeze in state aid for public schools will result in the equivalent of a $150,000 loss for the Lacey school district, because at least 120 new students are expected to enroll during the 2002-03 school year.

LONG BEACH TOWNSHIP

Southern Regional Board of Education

• 0.6-cent increase to 41.3 cents

PINE BEACH

Toms River Regional School District

§         0.5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

• $53 tax hike for the owner of a $105,313 home, for a total of $1,790
• 5.2-cent increase in the tax rate, to $1.70 per $100 of assessed valuation
• Salary increases and a 50 percent increase in health benefit costs

SHIP BOTTOM

Southern Regional Board of Education

• 2.8-cent tax increase to 47.5 cents

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP

§         School taxes are increasing by 2.5 percent.

§         1.73-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed valuation.

§         $17.30 increase in school taxes for owner of an average home.

§         Flat state aid, 30 percent rise in insurance costs and 4.8 percent rise in salaries cited.

§         Anticipated 130-student enrollment increase.

SURF CITY

Southern Regional Board of Education

• 2.4-cent tax increase to 45.5 cents

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 10:

Senator Andrew R. Ciesla (Republican)

Assemblyman James W. Holzapfel (Republican)

Assemblyman David W. Wolfe (Republican)

BERKELEY TOWNSHIP

Central Regional High School District

§         5.4-cent increase in the tax rate, for a total of 64.1 cents per $100 of assessed value.

BRICK

• $80 school tax increase for a $100,000 home
• $159 school tax increase for a $200,000 home
• School tax rate is $1.40 per $100 of assessed value.

DOVER TOWNSHIP

Toms River Regional School District

• 2.8-cent increase in tax rate to $1.48 per $100 of assessed value
• Enrollments went up 248 students this year and expected to go up another 250-300 next year

ISLAND HEIGHTS

Central Regional High School District

§         1.8-cent increase in the tax rate, for a total of 68.9 cents per $100 of assessed value.

MANASQUAN

• 5.13-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed property value.
• The tax rate will increase to $1.526 per $100 assessed property value.
• A property owner with a home assessed at $185,000, the borough's average, will pay $2,823.66 in school taxes next year, or $94.90 more than they paid last year.

SEASIDE PARK

Central Regional High School District

• 9.6-cent increase in the tax rate, for a total of 68 cents per $100 of assessed value

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 11:

Senator Joseph A. Palaia (Republican)

Assemblyman Steven J. Corodemus (Republican)

Assemblyman Thomas S. Smith Sr. (Republican)

BELMAR

• 8.5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• Three teaching positions cut in what is a one-school district.
• One less kindergarten class, one less basic skills class.

BRIELLE

• 22.5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $675 tax increase for the average homeowner.
• Rising enrollment. Elementary school expected to grow by 615 students next year.
• Higher tuition payments.

EATONTOWN

• 1-cent increase per $100 of assessed value in the school tax rate.
• If the budget is approved by voters, for a home assessed at $200,000, the school tax bill would be $1,970, up $12.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 12:

Senate President John O. Bennett (Republican)

Assemblyman Michael J. Arnone (Republican)

Assemblywoman Clare M. Farragher (Republican)

COLTS NECK

Freehold Regional Board of Education

• 17.2-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $688 tax increase for owner of an average home.

Colts Neck Board of Education

• 11.4-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $342 tax increase for owner of an average home.

HIGHTSTOWN BOROUGH

East Windsor Regional District

• $163 tax hike for owner of a $125,000 home, for a total of $3,375.
• 13-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• Tax rate would go from $2.57 to $2.70 per $100 of assessed valuation.
• 5 percent tax increase.

EAST WINDSOR TOWNSHIP

East Windsor Regional District

• $150 tax hike for owner of a $150,000 home, for a total of $3,780.
• 10-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• Tax rate would go from $2.42 to $2.52 per $100 of assessed valuation.
• 4.1 percent tax increase.
• Proposed budget cuts 19 new hires and will result in larger class sizes.

ENGLISHTOWN

Freehold Regional Board of Education

• 11.3-cent tax increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $197 tax increase for the average homeowner.

FREEHOLD

Freehold Regional Board of Education

• 9.5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $101 tax increase for the average homeowner.

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP

Freehold Regional Board of Education

• 13.1-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $196 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.

MANALAPAN

Freehold Regional Board of Education

• 12.8-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $224 tax increase for the average homeowner.

MARLBORO

Freehold Regional Board of Education

• 15.3-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $306 tax increase for the owner of an average home.
• Regional district anticipated getting $2 million more in state aid this year.

TINTON FALLS

• Owner of a home assessed at $100,000 would increase by $70.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 13:

Senator Joseph M. Kyrillos Jr. (Republican)

Assemblyman Joseph Azzolina (Republican)

Assemblyman Samuel D. Thompson (Republican)

ABERDEEN

Matawan-Aberdeen Regional District

• $356 tax hike for the owner of a $150,000 home
• 23.7-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value
• 4.15 percent increase in teacher salaries

HAZLET

• 23.5-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $376 tax increase for average homeowner.
• Major increases in insurance costs, teacher salaries, textbooks, special education and transportation.

MATAWAN

Matawan-Aberdeen Regional District

• $249 tax hike for the owner of a $150,000 home
• 16.6-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 14:

Senator Peter A. Inverso (Republican)

Assemblywoman Linda R. Greenstein (Democrat)

Assemblyman Gary L. Guear Sr. (Democrat)

HAMILTON

• 6-cent increase in tax rate, to $1.61 per $100 of assessed value.
• $76 tax hike for owner of a $126,900 home, or $2,043 total.
• District estimates loss of state aid under a frozen formula to be $764,555.

WEST WINDSOR

West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District

• 13-cent increase in the tax rate from $2.39 per $100 of assessed value to $2.52.
• Taxes will increase $325, from $5,975 to $6,300, for a resident with a home valued at the township average of $250,000.

MONROE TOWNSHIP

§         Public school officials estimate the district would see 343 more students this fall and that, they say, is part of the reason for a $5.3 million increase in the district's budget

§         The budget -- if voters approve it April 16 -- raises the school tax rate 7 cents to $1.49 per $100 of assessed valuation.

§         The owner of the average $150,000 home in town would pay $105 more next year to support the schools, receiving a tax bill of $2,235.

SOUTH BRUNSWICK

§         10-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $185 tax increase for average homeowner.

§         Rising student population.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 15:

Senator Shirley K. Turner (Democrat)

Assemblyman Reed Gusciora (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (Democrat)

EWING TOWNSHIP

• $163 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.
• 13-cent increase in the tax rate for each $100 of assessed value.
• Rate would rise to $2.40 per $100 of assessed value.
• 9.8 percent tax increase.
• Proposed budget reflects increases in operating expenses and debt service. Board is also proposing two additional ballot questions.

LAWRENCE

• 6-cent increase in the school tax rate, to $1.56 per $100 of assessed property value.
• Owner of a home assessed at the township average of $161,570 would pay $2,520 in school taxes, an increase of $96.
• A separate ballot question seeks $450,000 for new classroom and cafeteria furniture at the high school, locks on classroom doors, burglar alarms and more playground equipment for elementary schools. If it is approved, the tax rate would rise another .07 cent. Owner of a typical home would pay an additional $11 in school taxes.

TRENTON

§         This Abbott district has filed a complaint against the state because it was told to submit a revised budget that contained a $6.5 million cut. The cut was not made and the district does not know if it will get the additional aid from the state.

PRINCETON BOROUGH

Princeton Regional School District

• $312 tax hike for owner of a $350,000 home, for a total of $4,585
• 9-cent increase in the tax rate bringing it to $1.31 per $100 of assessed value

PRINCETON TOWNSHIP

Princeton Regional School District

• $273 tax hike for owner of a $380,000 home, for a total of $4,750
• 7-cent increase in the tax rate bringing it to $$1.25 per $100 of assessed value

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 16:

Senator Walter J. Kavanaugh (Republican)

Assemblyman Christopher “Kip” Baterman (Republican)

Assemblyman Peter J. Biondi (Republican)

BERNARDSVILLE

Somerset Hills Board of Education

§         $610 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.

BOUND BROOK

• School taxes in Bound Brook will go up about $250 for the average homeowner.
• It will mean the owner of a home assessed at $150,000 will see school taxes rise by $253.50. The school tax rate is expected to climb about 17 cents, to $2.05 per $100 of assessed property value.
• There are 1,621 kids in four schools, up 110 from June.

BRIDGEWATER

Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District

• Taxes would increase $362.27 on the average home valued at $294,539.
• 11.6 percent tax increase.

FAR HILLS

Somerset Hills Board of Education

• $294 tax increase for average homeowner.

PEAPACK-GLADSTONE

Somerset Hills Board of Education

• $20 tax increase for average homeowner.

RARITAN BOROUGH

Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District

• Taxes would increase $215.98 on the average home valued at $170,556.
• 9 percent tax increase.

MONTGOMERY

• $752 tax hike for owner of a $381,000 home, for a total of $6,081
• Tax rate of $1.60 per $100 of assessed value remains about the same. But the average assessment rose from $330,000 to $381,000

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 17:

Senator Bob Smith (Democrat)

Assemblyman Upendra J. Chivukula (Democrat)

Assemblyman Joseph V. Egan (Democrat)

NORTH BRUNSWICK

§         18-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $327 tax increase for the owner of an average home.

§         Rising salaries and insurance premiums

§         More out of district special education placements.

MILLTOWN

§         7-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $115 tax increase for owner of an average home.

PISCATAWAY

§         $87 increase in taxes for the owner of a $109,200 home, to $2,741

• 8-cent increase in tax rate to $2.51 per $100 of assessed value

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 18:

Senator Barbara Buono (Democrat)

Assemblyman Peter J. Barnes Jr. (Democrat)

Assemblyman Patrick J. Diegnan Jr. (Democrat)

EAST BRUNSWICK

• 37-cent tax hike to $3.92 per $100 of assessed value
• $352 tax increase for average homeowner, up to $3,724 in school taxes.
• The district’s revised budget now exceeds the state-mandated cap on spending by $2.4 million. Voters will be presented a second question authorizing the additional $2.4 million. Thirteen janitorial positions and new teaching positions depend upon passage of the second question.

EDISON

• 8-cent tax increase to $1.76 per $100 of assessed value
• $136 tax increase for owner of a $170,818 home, to $3,006
• Teacher salaries and tuition costs up

HELMETTA

• This is a non-operating school district that sends to Spotswood
• $1.05 tax increase per $100 assessed value.
• $735 tax increase for the average homeowner.
• Enrollment grew by 40 students in two years.
• Special education costs growing by $167,000.
• Tuition rate increase will average 20.74 percent (represents 61 cents on the tax rate)
• No free balance.
• BA calls it a “financial crisis.”

METUCHEN

• $239 tax hike for the owner of a $184,100 home, for an average of $4,105
• 13-cent increase in the tax rate, to $2.23 per $100 of assessed value
• Reductions were made to sports programs

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 19:

Senator Joseph F. Vitale (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Arline M. Friscia (Democrat)

Assemblyman John S. Wisniewski (Democrat)

CARTERET

§         21-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $248 increase in school taxes for average homeowner.

§         District attributed the tax increase to insufficient state aid, rising health care insurance and special education costs.

PERTH AMBOY

• Although an Abbott district, it is struggling with skyrocketing enrollments.
• District has 275 paraprofessionals that are not recognized under whole school reform and must come out of the local budget.
• Class size is 35 in the first grade, between 28-30 on average.

SAYREVILLE

• $108 tax increase for the owner of a $135,000 home, for a total of $2,362
• 8-cent increase to $1.75 per $100 of assessed value
• District cut maintenance expenses and technology

WOODBRIDGE

• $150 increase in taxes for owner of a $75,000 home, for an average of $2,715
• 20-cent tax hike, to $3.62 per $100 of assessed value
• Cite rising health, insurance, special education, utilities and workers compensation costs

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 20:

Senator Raymond J. Lesniak (Democrat)

Assemblyman Neil M. Cohen (Democrat)

Assemblyman Joseph Cryan (Democrat)

ROSELLE

• $185 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner
• If a second question is approved to provide funds for school athletics, junior ROTC and alternative schools, the tax increase would rise to $193.
• Approval of a third question, to build an elementary school, would require the average homeowner to pay another $84 a year.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 21:

Senator Richard H. Bagger (Republican)

Assemblyman Thomas H. Kean Jr. (Republican)

Assemblyman Eric Munoz, MD (Republican)

BERKELEY HEIGHTS

§         8.2 percent increase in the tax rate, bringing it to $1.265 per $100 of assessed valuation.

MADISON

§         2.2 percent increase in school tax levy.

§         11.6-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $109 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

MOUNTAINSIDE

§         $658 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

§         Jump in health care costs cited.

SUMMIT

§         Projected 7-cent increase in school taxes

§         District is asking the board of school estimate for permission to go $375,978 over the state cap.

§         Summit residents are looking at a nearly 8 percent increase in property taxes this year under the proposed budgets for schools and municipal and Union County services.

§         For the owner of the average house assessed at $450,000, the annual tax bill will reach nearly $10,845, a more than $800 jump over this year.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 22:

Senator Joseph S. Suliga (Democrat)

Assemblyman Gerald B. Green (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Linda Stender (Democrat)

MIDDLESEX BOROUGH

• 12-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $120 tax increase for the average homeowner.
• Board would have to cut $699,000 or more to eliminate the need for a separate ballot question asking voters to exceed the spending cap so it can provide high school athletics.

NORTH PLAINFIELD

• $149 tax increase for the owner of a  $129,000 home

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 23:

Senator Leonard Lance (Republican)

Assemblyman Michael J. Doherty (Republican)

Assemblywoman Connie Myers (Republican)

ALLAMUCHY

• 2.6 percent tax increase
• 2.73-cent tax hike, to $1.42 per $100 of assessed value
• $27.30 tax hike for owner of $100,000 home

ALPHA

• 3.8 percent tax increase
• $38 tax hike for owner of a $100,000 home
• 4-cent increase in tax rate
• Salaries and health benefits cited

BELVIDERE

• $82 school tax increase for the owner of a $100,000 home
• 4.9% increase in the school tax rate
• 8.2-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value
• $9.14 million budget would finance three new teachers and cut five support positions.
• District estimates a loss of $360,000 it was anticipating for about 40 new students.

BLAIRSTOWN

North Warren Regional

• 5.8 cent tax hike, to 73.4 cents

Blairstown Township Board of Education

• 6.8-cent increase in the tax rate, which is currently 67.35 cents per $100 of assessed value
• Owner of a $200,000 home would pay $136 more in property taxes.
• District witnessed a $210,116 increase in the cost of health insurance

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP

Warren Hills Regional School District

• 6-cent increase in the tax rate, a 7 percent increase over last year
• Owner of a home assessed at $100,000 would pay $914 to support the regional district, about $60 more than last year.

FRELINGHUYSEN TOWNSHIP

§         2.7-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $27 tax increase for the owner of a $100,000 home.

§         Insurance for workers compensation up by 33 percent.

§         Liability insurance up 25 percent.

§         Health insurance up 20 percent.

GREENWICH TOWNSHIP

§         16.6 percent increase in the tax rate.

§         21-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $208 increase in taxes for owner of a $100,000 home.

§         Enrollments expected to soar from 794 in 2001 to more than 900 by the next school year.

HACKETTSTOWN

• Tax rate would rise by 11.4 cents per $100 of assessed property value, equal to a $114 property tax increase for the owner of a $100,000 home.
• Board had to budget $500,000 more for health insurance
• Board had to cut $200,000 from maintenance.

HARDWICK

• 3.7 percent tax increase

HARMONY TOWNSHIP

§         School taxes here could go up 5.8 cents per $100 of assessed value under the proposed school district budget.

§         That tax increase would amount to $58 for the owner of a home assessed at $100,000.

§         The $5.38 million budget is about 3 percent more expensive than the 2000-01 budget. The increase is necessitated by contractual salary increases and higher insurance fees.

HIGH BRIDGE

§         Used $60,000 in surplus to avoid a tax increase in next year's $5.8 million budget.

HOPE

• 3-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed valuation, to $1.70.
• $30 tax hike for owner of $100,000 home.

INDEPENDENCE TOWNSHIP

Great Meadows Regional School District

• Tax rate would increase 4.9 cents per $100 of assessed value.
• Owner of a home valued at $100,000 would pay an extra $45.

KNOWLTON

• 5.2 percent general tax increase.
• $95.30 tax increase on a home assessed at $100,000.

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP

Great Meadows Regional School District

• Tax rate would increase by 9.3 cents per $100 of assessed value.
• Owner of a $100,000 home would pay an extra $90 in school taxes.

MANSFIELD TOWNSHIP

Warren Hills Regional School District

• 10-cent increase in the tax rate, a 9 percent increase over last year
• Owner of a home valued at $100,000 would pay $1,208 in regional school taxes, about $100 more than last year.

OXFORD TOWNSHIP

§         The district’s $4,248,891 budget proposal calls for an increase of 30 cents per $100 of assessed value, an increase of $300 for the owner of a $100,000 home.

• If passed, the owner of a home assessed at $100,000 would pay $1,530 toward the municipal school, a 24 percent increase. Oxford sends its high school students to Warren Hills Regional High School on a tuition basis. That cost is included in the local school budget.

POHATCONG

• $100 school tax increase for the owner of a $100,000 home
• 7.4% increase in the district’s local tax levy
• 10-cent increase in tax rate
• Cost of employee health benefits rose 18 percent

WASHINGTON

Warren Hills Regional School District

• 7-cent increase in the tax rate, a 7 percent increase to $1.03 per $100 of assessed value
• Owner of a home valued at $100,000 would pay $1,029 in property taxes to support the regional district, about $70 more than last year.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

Warren Hills Regional School District

• 7-cent increase in the tax rate, a 7 percent increase over last year.
• Owner of a $100,000 home would pay $1,045 in taxes to support the regional district, about $79 more than last year.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 24:

Senator Robert E. Littell (Republican)

Assemblyman E. Scott Garrett (Republican)

Assemblyman Guy R. Gregg (Republican)

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

• The K-8 district’s tax rate would increase from $1.28 per $100 of assessed value to $1.31, a 3-cent increase.
• For the owner of a home assessed at the $250,000 township average, property taxes would be $3,275, a $75 increase.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 25:

Senator Anthony R. Bucco (Republican)

Assemblyman Michael P. Carroll (Republican)

Assemblyman Richard A. Merkt (Republican)

BOONTON

• 2 percent tax increase
• $52.50 tax increase for average homeowner.

DENVILLE

• For the owner of a home assessed at $280,000, the community average, local school taxes would increase $243.
• 13 percent increase in school property tax rate.
• District, a K-8, is experiencing a 215-student increase in enrollment.

MORISTOWN

Morris School District

• 3.7 percent tax increase.
• Owner of a $182,000 home would pay $2,370 in school taxes, about $84 more than the current year.
• Health and liability costs up 39 percent.

MORRIS TOWNSHIP

Morris School District

• 5.9 percent tax increase.
• Owner of a $380,000 home would pay $4,009 in school taxes, about $224 more than the current year.
• Health and liability costs up 15 percent.

ROXBURY

§         7-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         4.5 percent tax increase.

§         $132 tax increase for the average homeowner.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 26:

Senator Robert J. Martin (Republican)

Assemblyman Alex DeCroce (Republican)

Assemblyman Joseph Pennacchio (Republican)

BUTLER

§         $15 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

FLORHAM PARK

§         4.7 percent increase in school tax levy.

§         2.8-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $79 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.

HANOVER

§         4.3 percent increase in school taxes.

§         3-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value

§         $69 tax increase for the average homeowner.

§         Overall 3.6 percent enrollment increase.

§         Higher salaries, benefits and insurance costs.

KINNELON

§         $780 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

MONTVILLE

• An 8.7 percent increase in school taxes.
• The budget would increase from $39.6 million to $44.8 million, a 13 percent increase.
• The tax levy, or amount to raised by property taxes, would rise from $36.2 million to $41.3 million, an increase of slightly more than 14 percent.
• The tax rate would increase slightly over 11 cents from last year, an 8.7 percent increase. That means the owner of a home assessed at $308,000, the township average, would pay $4,362 next year — almost $350 more than this year.

§         The district’s enrollment increased between 6 and 6.5 percent this year

PEQUANNOCK

• $159 tax hike for owner of a $189,000 home, for an average of $3,737
• Higher staff salaries and 19 percent rise in employees benefits

POMPTON LAKES

§         6.4 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         $115 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

RIVERDALE

§         $54 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

§         Because the budget exceeds the state spending cap by $222,521, the school board is asking voters to approve spending that amount to maintain programs and positions, including two elementary school teachers, a full-time librarian, a part-time student assistance counselor, transportation for athletic teams and field trips, and the summer enrichment program.

WEST MILFORD

• Proposed $51 million budget calls for a $164 property tax increase on a house assessed at the township average of $130,700.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 29:

Senator Sharpe James (Democrat)

Assemblyman Wilfredo Caraballo (Democrat)

Assemblyman William D. Payne (Democrat)

HILLSIDE

• $360 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.
• State aid freeze and soaring cost of special education tuition and health benefits cited.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 30:

Senator Robert W. Singer (Republican)

Assemblyman Melvin Cottrell (Republican)

Assemblyman Joseph R. Malone III (Republican)

BORDENTOWN TOWNSHIP

Bordentown Regional School District

• $168 tax increase for the owner of a $132,133 home
• 13-cent increase in the tax rate, to $2.07 per $100 of assessed value

BORDENTOWN CITY

Bordentown Regional School District

• $50.61 tax increase for the owner of a $101,361 home
• 5-cent increase in the tax rate, to $2.07 per $100 of assessed value

CHESTERFIELD

Northern Burlington Regional School District

• 6.9-cent increase in the tax rate, to 83.4 cents per $100 of assessed value
• $143 tax increase for owner of home assessed at $207,000.

FARMINGDALE

Freehold Regional Board of Education

• 7.4-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $140 tax increase for the average homeowner.

HOWELL

Freehold Regional Board of Education

• 13.5-cent tax increase per $100 of assessed value.
• $202 tax increase for the average household.
• Regional district anticipated getting $2 million in additional state aid.

JACKSON TOWNSHIP

• 9.95 cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

LAKEWOOD

• If the proposed budget is adopted, the school tax rate would increase by 11.7 cents per $100 of assessed property value.

NORTH HANOVER

Northern Burlington Regional School District

• 11-cent increase in tax rate to 68.9 cents per $100 of assessed value
• $158 tax hike for owner of $160,000 home, for an average of $1,102

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

• $460 increase in taxes for the average homeowner.
• 26-cent tax increase for each $100 of assessed value.
• 12 percent enrollment increase.
• Budget eliminates the hiring of 10 new teachers.
• Board is also considering relocating administrative offices from leased facility to district-owned space.
• State aid freeze cited.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 31:

Senator Joseph Charles Jr. (Democrat)

Assemblyman Joseph V. Doria Jr. (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Elba Perez-Cinciarelli (Democrat)

BAYONNE

§         No school tax increase but it comes at the cost of 50 positions that were eliminated.

§         Cuts represent paring of about 3 percent of the total full-time school workforce.

§         Fewer supplies and equipment will be ordered.

§         Classes will be consolidated to reduce costs.

§         School tax rate is currently $19.93 per $100 of assessed value.

JERSEY CITY

§         In the face of a state aid freeze, the district intends to ask the state for more than $53 million in supplemental aid.

§         Budget is 15 percent, or $73 million, higher.

§         12 percent of the $596 million budget comes from Jersey City taxpayers.

§         Board of Education president criticized the state for directing the state-operated school district to make cuts on its own while maintaining program requirements.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 32:

Senator Nicholas J. Sacco (Democrat)

Assemblyman Anthony Impreveduto (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Joan M. Quigley (Democrat)

HARRISON

§         No increase in state aid will create a $3.6 million hole in the budget.

§         District intends to appeal to the state.

KEARNY

§         $251 tax increase for the average homeowner.

§         No new programs, services or improvements to aging school facilities anticipated.

§         Workers' compensation and property Insurance costs are up 30 percent.

§         Health insurance benefits necessitated a $900,000 additional appropriation.

§         State aid freeze blamed.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 33:

Senator Bernard F. Kenny Jr. (Democrat.

Assemblyman Rafael J. Fraguela (Democrat)

Assembly Speaker Albio Sires

HOBOKEN

§         No increase in taxes for this Abbott district, but to avoid a tax increase the district is banking on receiving $1.5 million in extra aid from the state with no guarantee they will get it.

WEST NEW YORK

§         District has issued a moratorium on spending to add $800,000 to its $2.3 million surplus to protect against the freeze in state aid.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 34:

Senator Nia H. Gill (Democrat)

Assemblyman Peter C. Eagler (Democrat)

Assemblyman Willis Edwards III (Democrat)

CLIFTON

• Proposed $105 million budget would increase the average tax bill by $148 a year
• Separate ballot questions for maintenance and new computers would represent a one-time tax increase of $135 for the average home.

GLEN RIDGE

• $640 increase in taxes for the owner of an average home.
• Added to the average $300 a year voters approved last fall to pay for the expansion of the high school, they would be paying $940 more in school taxes.
• 54 percent enrollment increase in five years.
• 5 percent enrollment increase last year.

WEST PATERSON

Passaic Valley Regional High School

§         4-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $67 tax increase for the average homeowner.

West Paterson Board of Education

§         $125 increase in taxes for average homeowner.

§         Higher salary, special education and health benefits costs.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 35:

Senator John A. Girgenti (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Nellie Pou (Democrat)

Assemblyman Alfred E. Steele (Democrat)

HAWTHORNE

§         $326 increase in taxes for the owner of a $165,000 home

• 19-cent tax hike per $100 of assessed valuation.

NORTH HALEDON

• The proposed school tax levy would require a $192 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

PATERSON

§         This state-operated district will have no tax increase. However, its $444 million budget is $64 million more than the current year’s budget.

TOTOWA

Passaic Valley Regional High School

• 5.2-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $90 tax increase for the average homeowner.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 36:

Senator Garry J. Furnari (Democrat)

Assemblyman Paul DiGaetano (Republican)

Assemblyman Paul A. Sarlo (Democrat)

LYNDHURST

• 10.8 percent increase in the school tax levy.
• 15-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value, an 11 percent increase.
• $226 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

PASSAIC

• Budget is $38.1 million higher than this year, but it would require a slightly less tax levy, which would mean a tax decrease of $6.50 for the average homeowner.

RUTHERFORD

• 5.2 percent increase in the school tax levy.
• 9-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value, a 4.8 percent increase.
• $168 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

WOOD-RIDGE

§         8.1 percent in the school tax levy.

• 50-cent decrease in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value to reflect property revaluation.
• $172 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 37:

Senator Byron M. Baer (Democrat)

Assemblyman Gordon M. Johnson (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Loretta D. Weinberg (Democrat)

BERGENFIELD

§         3.9 percent increase in school taxes.

§         9-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value, a 3.81 percent increase.

§         $135 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

• Cutting 11 faculty positions

ENGLEWOOD

§         $4 million budget shortfall necessitating layoff of 90 teachers and staff members and massive cuts to pre-kindergarten program

• 5 percent increase in school taxes
• $1 million in increased salary costs
• $440,000 in higher health costs

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS

§         4.85 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         20-cent decrease in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value due to a revaluation.

§         $184 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

HACKENSACK

§         4.4 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         8-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $126 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

MAYWOOD

§         4.22 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         7-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value, a 4.24 percent increase.

§         $112 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

PALISADES PARK

§         5.3 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         1-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $20 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

TEANECK

§         4.5 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         9-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $179 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

TENAFLY

§         7 percent increase in the tax levy.

§         10-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $375 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 38:

Senator Joseph Coniglio (Democrat)

Assemblywoman Rose Marie Heck (Republican)

Assemblyman Matt Ahearn (Democrat)

CLIFFSIDE PARK

§         3.6 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         4-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $68 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

EDGEWATER

§         8.13 percent increase in the school tax levy.

• 2-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $36 tax increase for owner of an average home.

FORT LEE

§         3.87 percent increase in the school levy.

§         1-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $25 tax increase for the owner of an average home.

HASBROUCK HEIGHTS

§         5.6 percent increase in the school levy.

§         9-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $173 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

LITTLE FERRY

§         4.98 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         $149 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

§         District is dipping into surplus.

SOUTH HACKENSACK

§         4.42 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         5-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $83 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 39:

Senator Gerald Cardinale (Republican)

Assemblyman John E. Rooney (Republican)

Assemblywoman Charlotte Vandervalk (Republican)

ALLENDALE

§         3.4 percent increase in the school tax levy.

• 46-cent drop in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value because of a revaluation.
• $70 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

CLOSTER

Closter Board of Education

§         5.8-cent increase per $100 of assessed valuation

• $53 tax hike for average homeowner

Northern Valley Regional School District

• 6.4-cent increase per $100 of assessed valuation
• $223 tax hike for average homeowner

DEMAREST

§         7.5 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         6-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $202 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

DUMONT

• 5.1 percent increase in the school tax levy.
• 9-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value, a 4.2 percent increase.
• $159 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

EMERSON

• 58 percent increase in out of district placement costs
• 25 percent increase in transportation costs
• 15 percent increase in health benefits
• Staff cuts

HARRINGTON PARK

§         3.08 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         8-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $252 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

HILLSDALE

§         8.22 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         10-cent increase in the school tax rate, a 7.73 percent increase.

§         $250 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

HO-HO-KUS

§         7.3 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         6-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $222 tax increase for average homeowner.

NEW MILFORD

§         3.8 percent increase in the tax levy.

§         7-cent increase in the school tax rate.

§         $138 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

NORTHVALE

§         17-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $353 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

§         8.7 percent rise in the tax levy.

NORWOOD

§         4.56 percent increase in the tax levy.

§         5.13-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

ORADELL

Oradell Board of Education

§         7.4 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         6.9-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $149 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

River Dell Regional School District

§         6-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         5.7 percent increase in the school tax rate.

§         $176 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

RAMSEY

§         10.3 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         13-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value, a 6.4 percent increase.

§         $276 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

RIVER EDGE

River Dell Regional School District

§         2-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value

§         2.1 percent increase in the school tax rate.

§         $38 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

RIVER VALE

§         6.3 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         5-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value, a 3.6 percent increase.

§         $130 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

Westwood Regional School District

§         3-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value

§         $116 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

WESTWOOD

Westwood Regional School District

§         Almost a 1-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $863 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

WOODCLIFF LAKE

§         3.75 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         3-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $110 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.
HOW FLAT STATE AID IS HURTING NJ SCHOOL DISTRICTS

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT 40:

Senator Henry P. McNamara (Republican)

Assemblyman Kevin J. O’Toole (Republican)

Assemblyman David C. Russo (Republican)

LITTLE FALLS

Passaic Valley Regional High School

§         4-cent increase in the tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $55.50 tax increase for the average homeowner.

MAHWAH

§         9.3 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         7-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value, an 8.5 percent increase.

§         $204 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

OAKLAND

§         8.37 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         6-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $122 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

§         63 percent increase in the costs associated with special education, transportation and health benefits.

RIDGEWOOD

§         5.4 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         7-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $354 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

RINGWOOD

Lakeland Regional High School

§         $61 increase in school taxes for average homeowner for the regional school

• Paying $1,311 in taxes on a $168,000 home now in regional school taxes
• 9 jobs, including 8 teachers, gone
• 31 percent increase in health insurance costs
• Using $400,000 in surplus, leaving just $179,000 in rainy day fund

For K-8:

§         $282 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.

• 12 percent increase in tax level
• 16 percent or $300,000 increase in staff health benefits
• 25 percent increase in insurance

WANAQUE

Wanaque Board of Education

• $259 tax increase for average homeowner.
• Cutting four teachers to compensate for a $340,000 increase in insurance and health benefits.

Lakeland Regional High School

§         $33 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner for the regional high school.

WAYNE

• $185 tax increase for average homeowner
• Increases for salaries and insurance costs
• Officials expect as many as 1,500 more children over the next five years.

WYCKOFF

§         7.6 percent increase in the school tax levy.

§         4-cent increase in the school tax rate per $100 of assessed value.

§         $147 increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.