IF WE COULD SOMEHOW RECLAIM THE $$ SPENT ON THE FAILED REFERENDUM THIS INCREASE MIGHT NOT HAVE BEEN NEEDED.

Just for clarification - The BoE increased their tax levy 1.98% versus last year, which is under the 2% cap that would require voter approval, that is true. However, Borough ratables dropped $19million versus last year, so the tax base to support the increased levy has fallen. the net effect is that Borough taxpayers will see a school tax increase of 2.73%, not 1.98%. [From the BoE handout, for the average home valued at $491k, last years school tax was $7113.80, and the increase this year will be $194.40 - $194.40/$7113.80=2.73%]

I'm not impugning the BoE in any way, they followed the law. I, personally, didn't realize the law capping school taxes was based on prior year levies, regardless of the tax base. It's interesting that the law is written such that, if property values are dropping, local boards of education can keep increasing their levies at 2%, regardless of the effective tax increase on the taxpayers. If we get back to rising property values, this would work in taxpayers favor be effectively capping increases (from the tax payers perspective) below 2%.

I just thing this should be put out to the public so they understand why the 2% school tax increase is actually 2.7% on their tax bills, and didn't require voter approval.

Can anyone explain how as shown healthcare costs are increasing by 12% on a $4M+ line item but the cost for healthcare shown is nearly the same? Is there a missing assumption someplace? Less staff? higher cost share? Both?

Joe - Higher cost share. From the BoE meeting, the healthcare costs, and the pension costs are down due to the additional contributions required from the teachers in the latest contract.

@ Jeff H (not in capitals).....The failed referendum cost $192K?

YES ALL OF THOSE ATTORNEYS, CONSULTANTS, ENGINEERING STUDIES, OPEN SPACE FEASIBILITY STUDIES, REDEVELOPMENT PLANS, PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLANS, NOT TO MENTION A WEBSITE COST A BOATLOAD OF TAX DOLLARS. NAMES LIKE Clark Caton Hintz AND Parente Beard WERE PAID TENS OF THOUSANDS. BTW THE WEBSITE IS STILL UP WHICH MEANS WE ARE STILL PAYING!! http://www.bancroftredevelopment.com/

I saw a snapshot of last year's senior graduating class. Not very many students I have to say. You would think with the boatload of money we pay in taxes that we could at least churn out more than a couple dozen graduates. Where exactly does all the money go? Pretty lame.

@JW...I know that there are folks like John M. who are very well-versed on this subject and can provide additional information, but I believe the bulk of our taxes fund the 31 Abbott school districts, and the administrative costs (NJEA pensions, health care, etc) of the over 600 school districts in this State. Unfortunately, I don't see this changing any time soon! And please don't misconstrue my comment as attacking kids or teachers....the NJEA is the problem.

Jeff H, Please relax with the Caps! Speak, don't shout brother

@ JM -- the class size was about 180. Not saying the schools here are the best they could be, or that there are no spending savings to be had -- but they are in fact very good.

The town won't agree to increase its tax basis by expanding business or housing.