JACKSON, N.J. — Residents throughout Jackson Township this week began receiving estimated property tax bills reflecting increases of up to approximately 12% for many homeowners as municipal officials continue working to finalize the township’s delayed 2026 budget.
During Tuesday’s Township Council meeting, Council President Mordechai Burnstein said the bills are estimates and reflect tax obligations from multiple taxing entities, including the municipality, county and school district, rather than municipal taxes alone.
Despite that 12% increase and an ‘estimated’ bill, Interim Mayor Jennifer Kuhn touted a 0% “tax levy”.
“I’m proud to announce that our 2026 municipal budget is officially complete, and most importantly, we have delivered a 0% municipal tax increase for our residents,” Mayor Kuhn said.
Officials explained that the estimated bills were necessary because of delays in adopting the township’s budget following the state’s rejection of an earlier budget submission. Several residents voiced concerns that because the bills are only estimates, the final tax amounts could ultimately change once the budget process is completed.
At the meeting, Burnstein said the township’s earlier claims of a 0% tax increase in the municipal budget are no longer accurate.
While the tax increases dominated discussion among residents, Interim Mayor Jennifer Kuhn included a letter with the mailing highlighting projects completed during the past year and outlining several initiatives her administration says are moving forward.
Kuhn also invited residents to contact her directly about the 12% increase, saying that some social media posts are incorrect.
“There has been a lot said about this budget, and unfortunately, not all of it has been accurate,” Kuhn said. “I encourage any resident who has a question or concern to reach out to me directly. You deserve the facts, and I will always do my best to make sure you have them.”
While Kuhn maintained that there is a 0% municipal increase in a press release issued on the township website, Council President Mordechai Burnstein said that is not the case, as things have changed since the budget was passed by the council.
Key Points
- Jackson Township residents are receiving estimated property tax bills showing increases of up to approximately 12%.
- Township officials said the bills are estimates issued because the municipal budget has not yet been finalized.
- Mayor Jennifer Kuhn used the mailing to highlight open space preservation, Route 537 planning, public safety initiatives and community projects.
Mayor outlines priorities for Jackson
In her letter, Kuhn described preserving open space as one of the administration’s major accomplishments. She highlighted the township’s preservation of a 4.5-acre parcel at 0 Patterson Road through the Open Space Preservation Committee.
According to the mayor, the township hopes to partner with the Jackson Board of Education to transform the property into a community resource featuring a bird sanctuary, educational gardens, vegetable gardens and herb gardens that could be used by both students and residents.
Kuhn also pointed to expanded enforcement efforts targeting the illegal use of motorized bikes, e-bikes, scooters and small motorcycles on township-owned parks and recreation facilities. She said the initiative is intended to improve public safety while protecting taxpayer-funded recreational assets for families.
Another project highlighted in the letter is the long-term planning effort along County Route 537. The mayor said the transportation project is expected to address congestion, improve traffic flow, enhance roadway safety and modernize major intersections throughout the corridor as planning progresses.
The administration also highlighted the return of the Mayor’s Flea Market at Johnson Park after several years, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen community engagement by bringing residents together for a family-friendly event.
Kuhn further noted improvements in township operations, including the hiring of a new Human Resources personnel officer to help improve municipal services and day-to-day government operations.
Budget process continues
Although the mayor’s letter focused on community improvements, many residents remain primarily concerned about the financial impact of higher property tax bills.
Township officials have emphasized that municipal government controls only one portion of the overall property tax bill, with county government and local school taxes also contributing to the total amount property owners pay each year.
Jackson Township has experienced ongoing fiscal challenges in recent years, including budget delays and financial pressures affecting both municipal government and the school district. Officials have said they are working to complete the budget process so final tax bills can be issued.
Until then, homeowners will continue paying based on the estimated bills, with any necessary adjustments expected after the budget receives final approval. The township also announced payement deadline change to accomodate for the increased tax bill.
FAQ
Why are Jackson residents receiving estimated tax bills?
The township has not yet finalized its municipal budget, requiring estimated tax bills to be issued until the budget is adopted.
Are the tax bills final?
No. Township officials have said the current bills are estimates and could be adjusted once the budget process is complete.
Why are property taxes increasing?
Officials said the bills include taxes from multiple taxing entities, including municipal, county and school taxes, and reflect estimated levies until the budget is finalized.
What projects did Mayor Jennifer Kuhn highlight?
The mayor highlighted open space preservation, a proposed bird sanctuary and educational gardens, Route 537 improvements, increased park enforcement, the Mayor’s Flea Market and staffing improvements within township government.
When will final tax bills be issued?
Officials expect final tax bills to be issued after the township adopts its municipal budget.
Sources: Jackson Township Council meeting; Jackson Township Office of the Mayor resident letter; Jackson Township estimated tax bill mailing.
Jackson Township Interim Mayor Jennifer Kuhn highlighted community projects and future initiatives as residents received estimated property tax bills reflecting increases of up to 12%.
