TOMS RIVER, NJ – The Ocean County Board of Commissioners is taking a stand against proposed increases in state gas tax, tolls, and transit fares, voicing concerns over the financial strain on residents. Commissioner Frank Sadeghi highlighted the significant rise in the gas tax from 14.5 cents in 2016 to a proposed 50 cents. The Commissioners argue that these increases disproportionately affect Ocean County, a region heavily reliant on commuting.
The Board plans to send a resolution to Trenton, urging state officials to reconsider the tax hike. This comes amidst other financial pressures, including a 3 percent toll increase on the Garden State Parkway and a 15 percent fare hike for N.J. Transit riders. The increases are expected to support the state’s Transportation Trust Fund, yet local officials lament the minimal return on investment for infrastructure improvements within the county.
Barbara Jo Crea, Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, emphasized the impact on the county’s senior citizens, many of whom live on fixed incomes and depend on personal vehicles for transportation. The county’s limited public transit system exacerbates the issue, placing an additional burden on residents living paycheck to paycheck.
Deputy Director Gary Quinn and Commissioner John P. Kelly discussed the county’s efforts to improve local infrastructure, such as advocating for Route 9 improvements and addressing flooding issues exacerbated by Superstorm Sandy. Kelly also noted the plan to install 40 new traffic signals to enhance road safety across the county’s extensive road network.
The Board’s collective stance underscores the challenge of balancing state fiscal needs with local economic realities, calling for fairer distribution of tax revenues for regional infrastructure projects.