Fair Property Taxes for All NJ Hosts “Tax Talk” Series in Parsippany

Trenton, N.J. – Affordability, property taxes, and the economic viability of the Garden State were the foremost topics at hand as Fair Property Taxes for All New Jersey (FPTFANJ) hosted a “Tax Talk” event in Parsippany this week.

Joined by Assemblyman Jay Webber (LD26) and William J. Smith, director of communications and media for Garden State Initiative, these events offer a unique opportunity for taxpayers to hear from elected officials and professionals concerning rising costs throughout the State.

“We offer Tax Talks so that residents can hear information directly regarding the issues facing New Jersey and to have their concerns addressed firsthand,” said Brian Thomas, executive director of Fair Property Taxes for All NJ.

“We all know we are a high cost state, but what taxpayers need to know are the decisions and policies which led us here as well as what is being done to obtain tangible relief. We cannot thank Assemblyman Webber and Mr. Smith enough for helping to achieve these goals.”

Assemblyman Jay Webber (LD26) emphasized several key issues he believes are impacting residents including a lack of direct, real property tax relief to New Jerseyans and an imbalanced school funding formula:

“Outrageous property taxes and other taxes are the main issues plaguing New Jersey.  We have a $15 Billion annual “Property Tax Relief Fund” that does not actually provide direct property-tax relief to residents, and an unfair and unequal funding of education that cheats children and taxpayers at the same time,” said Assemblyman Webber.

“Our citizens took up these and many other concerns at the public forum hosted by Fair Property Taxes for All New Jersey and joined by Garden State Initiative, and it was great to see so many concerned residents take the time to share their views.  Everyone on hand was in agreement on one overriding hope for our Garden State:  we do not want New Jersey’s high taxes to force any more of our families, friends, and neighbors to flee for greener pastures.”

William J. Smith of Garden State Initiative highlighted economic data that illustrates how New Jersey is being left behind in the national economic boom:

“Our weak GDP rate shows an economy that’s lagging far behind in our region, our employment levels are only on par with a decade ago, and we have looming questions regarding our state revenue sources and our state’s ability to meet its obligations without serious reform.”

“At Garden State Initiative, we’re heartened by the informed and engaged audience in Parsippany that demonstrated an awareness of the impact of bad policies on our families. Clearly the message of groups like Fair Property Taxes for New Jersey and GSI is resonating,” Smith added. 

Encouraged by the overwhelming participation, the 501c3 nonprofit will host future panels which allow for continued, open discussions:

“New Jersey’s fiscal house is a mess and residents are paying the price for poor housekeeping,” said Brian Thomas. ”But all is not lost yet. By offering the ability to speak unimpeded with representatives we can begin to help usher in an era of actual relief for New Jerseyans.”