Shehady Among Mayors Endorsing 2.5 Percent Tax Cap

UPDATED Springfield Mayor Ziad Shehady was among 39 New Jersey Mayors to sign on with Governor Chris Christie's plan to create constitutional amendment preventing municipalities from raising property taxes by more than 2.5 percent.

With some exceptions, the endorsements are from Republican Mayors; both Shehady and Christie are Republicans.

Last week, the Governor outlined a 33-bill reform package to address the state taxes and spending. The plan includes Cap 2.5, a constitutional amendment creating a 2.5 percent cap on property tax increases.

A press release from the Governor's office notes that New Jersey property taxes have grown an astonishing 70 percent over the last ten years, with an average annual property tax bill of $7,281 on New Jersey families, the highest rate in the nation.

State Democrats have criticized the tax cap proposal, saying that towns coping with the loss of state aid will not be able to make up the funding through property tax increases.

"Real property tax reform is long overdue and Governor Christie is proposing a package of legislation that will provide Springfield residents with much needed property tax relief," Shehady said in an email.  "The Governor is serious about fixing the state budget and giving local leaders the tools to effectively manage their finances.  This cap and the associated proposals will promote fiscal responsibility, make sure taxpayers are in control and reign in the labor unions.  For the well-being of Springfield and the State, I proudly support Governor Christie's reform agenda."