TOWNSHIP LETTER SAYS TAX RATE SLIGHTLY HIGHER THAN EXPECTED

The final tax bill for 2015 sent out this week includes a 1.96% tax increase for the municipal tax rate, slightly higher than the original estimated 1.9% increase.

It also includes a 2.0% tax increase for the school district, and a 2.84% tax hike for the county portion. This comes to a $3.60 tax rate per $100.00 of assessed value.

A Township letter detailing the final numbers (below) points out that most of the taxes, 58%, go for schools, with the Township taking 26% and the county 16%.

Further breakdown indicates an overwhelming majority of the Township tax revenue, more than $12 million, goes to public safety, followed by debt service and pensions.

The letter also states the Township Committee "maintains its unwavering commitment to exploring more efficient alternatives to carry out local government duties and to continue to provide the high level of services that help define the quality of life in Maplewood, while maintaining a stable tax rate."

See the letter below: