Marlboro Democrats: Spending is at Pre-2007 Levels

The Democratic candidates for Marlboro Township Council are pointing voters toward their records on council, according to a new release sent by municipal chair and Council President Frank LaRocca.

Mayor Jon Hornik said that although township overhead costs have risen 14 percent, the administration and council have kept spending down to "pre-2007 levels" for six years.

“Through the hard work of the administration and the entire council, Marlboro taxpayers have saved hundreds of thousands of dollars in the consolidation of the Swim and Recreation Divisions and the dissolution of the Water Authority.” He added.

2013's municipal budget increased about $300,000 compared to 2012, according to a township budget presentation. Marlboro administrators said they have cut spending by $2.46 million since 2007.

Business Administrator Jon Capp said in March that township spending is within the 2 percent tax levy, but state law allows municipalities to raise money for state mandated programs and emergency appropriations outside of the tax cap.

Hurricane Sandy cost the township more than $2.6 million. That, combined with rising health insurance and pension costs mandated by the state, equals extra funds paid through taxation, as allowed by New Jersey.

Marlboro Township introduced its $32.92 million 2013 budget on March 14, which makes up 17 percent of the local tax bill for Marlboro residents.

“Competitive bidding between in-house work and private industry not only stimulates the local economy, but provides substantial savings to our residents," said candidate and Councilman Scott Metzger. 

The council opens the budget process to the public before voting during council meetings. During the open workshop meetings the council invites department heads to defend their budget requests and makes unofficial cuts before making the budget official at the final vote.

“No line item is safe in this budget,” stated Councilwoman Carol Mazzola, adding “even enacting the smallest of cost saving measures across the board has added significant savings.” 

The Democrat's news release points to streamlining recreation programs to online signups, saving in postage, print and personnel costs.

"In Marlboro, we do not decide things based upon party lines. That is why we have a cohesive team that has been able to bring about great changes for our community," Hornik said. "We continue to need people like Jeff, Scott and Carol, who have always been actively involved in developing solutions for our great township, to represent the people of Marlboro. I am voting for them, I hope you will too.”