Colts Neck board highlights zero tax increase for K–8 while criticizing township and regional levy

The Colts Neck Township School District Board of Education said July 23 that the district secured a zero tax increase for the K–8 portion of residents’ bills, but several members criticized township and county actions and a regional high-school levy that they said are driving higher overall tax statements.

President Vulpi opened the meeting and reported that reassessment notices recently mailed to residents produced higher dollars due to increases in assessed values. "If you run for office and you claim you're going to preserve tax dollars, then do your job," President Vulpi said, urging local officials to consider the effect on taxpayers.

Board members explained why a zero tax increase at the district level did not prevent higher bills for homeowners. Mr. Walsh noted that the district does K–8 work and that the Freehold Regional School District, which covers high school, recently raised its levy; one board member cited a reported 8.7% increase in Freehold’s tax levy to illustrate how regional levies can raise total bills even when the local K–8 district holds the line.

Members said the town’s higher assessed values, if not offset by rate reductions from the township or county, translate into larger dollar amounts for taxpayers despite a stable district rate. Several board members thanked the administration for keeping the district’s portion steady and said the board pursued line-by-line budget work to limit spending.

The board directed that regular meetings will resume the week of Aug. 27. There were no public comments at the meeting.