An “Estimated Tax Bill” has been mailed out. Payment is due for this quarter by August 1, 2016. After August 10th, you will be subject to interest of 8% on the 1st $1,500.00 and 18% above $1,500.00 (unfortunately, this is state law).
The regular Tax Bills have been delayed due to various circumstances between the State of New Jersey, Atlantic County and the City of Atlantic City. A series of bills were passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor to resolve this situation. There is disagreement about the percentage of taxes due to Atlantic County on what the casinos are supposed to pay to Atlantic City and Atlantic County along with related tax appeals. If this issue is not resolved in an equitable manner, it will force higher property taxes on the County portion of the tax bill affecting every town in Atlantic County.
Our taxpayers will receive a reconciled tax bill before September 30th, but until that time, the estimated tax bill must still be paid for August 1, 2016.
Buena Vista Township had a zero tax rate increase again for the year 2016. Our local tax rate is essentially the same for the last three years. The bad news is that the Township has to send the estimated tax bill out that includes everyone else’s tax requests including Atlantic County, Buena Regional School District and our Fire Districts. By law, we are allowed to charge 100% of last year’s tax levy for these other entities on your tax bill. Buena Vista’s rate of tax was already determined months ago.
This letter is to keep you better informed of the crisis that currently exists in Atlantic County stemming from Atlantic City, but affecting all of us.
by Mayor Chuck Chiarello on behalf of the Township Committee