By GARRETT STASSE
The Tinton Falls Borough Council took a close look at its proposed 2008 municipal budget, and wasnt happy.
The borough, like nearly all suburban New Jersey towns, was hit hard by the loss of state aid, a softening real estate market and other factors beyond its control, and Mayor Peter Mclearies spending plan reflects it.
If adopted as is, the owners of a house valued at $343,683 the borough average would see the municipal portion of the property tax bill rise $49, he said.
The goal was a zero increase, but the loss of $178,902 in state aid, soaring fuel, pension and insurance costs wrecked that. (more…)