October 20, 2004

 

RAHWAY’S TAXES AMONG THE LOWEST IN THE COUNTY

RAHWAY -- Data released by the Union County Board of Taxation this month show that Rahway’s total property tax bill remains among the lowest among Union County’s 21 municipalities. The 2004 Union County Abstract of Ratables provides a breakdown of taxable property in Union County and a wide range of budgetary data for Union County municipalities and school districts.

Rahway’s total tax rate per $100 of valuation is 3.872, which is the 7th lowest tax rate in Union County. The county average is 4.40 per $100 of assessed valuation. This translates to an average total tax bill (which includes county, school and municipal taxes) of $5,145, the fifth lowest bill in the county and well below the county average of $6,603.

“Most of the communities that had lower tax rates than Rahway force residents to pay hundreds of dollars each year in household trash, recycling and bulky waste disposal, as well as additional sewer costs,” said Kennedy. “In Rahway, not only are sewerage costs already included in property tax bills, but we provide better and cheaper solid waste and recycling services than neighboring municipalities. Our Division of Solid Waste and Recycling has already brought in an additional $300,000 in revenue by picking up bulky waste for Clark, Kenilworth and Roselle Park.”

The Mayor also mentioned that Rahway residents pay the lowest water rates in Union County.

“Keeping property tax increases under control has been my administration’s number one priority since day one,” said Mayor Kennedy. “While property taxes are high all across New Jersey, this report shows that Rahway is on solid financial ground and stacks up well when compared to its neighbors.”