Officials reduce tax increase while tackling development, infrastructure, and code changes
VERONA, N.J. – Township officials introduced a revised municipal budget Monday night that lowers the projected tax increase while sparking a broader debate over long-term fiscal strategy, as council members weighed how aggressively to use surplus funds and generate new revenue.
Mayor Christopher Tamburro opened the March 23 meeting by highlighting ongoing planning efforts and recognizing longtime Construction Code Official Thomas Jacobson, announcing, “As mayor of Verona, I am proclaiming Wednesday… is Thomas Jacobson Day in the township of Verona.”
The meeting quickly shifted to substantive matters, including major infrastructure updates, redevelopment activity, and the formal introduction of the 2026 operating budget.
Budget reduced to 2.84% increase after revisions
Township officials confirmed the municipal tax increase had been reduced significantly during the budget process.
“As you know, we’ve reduced the 2026 budget down from 5.76% to 2.84%,” the township’s chief financial officer told the council, citing changes that included additional surplus usage and internal reallocations.
Officials clarified that no current employees were cut as part of the revisions. “No active employee was cut,” administrators said, explaining that a planned hire had instead been deferred.
Council members pressed for clarity on the long-term impact of relying more heavily on surplus funds. Councilwoman Christine McGrath raised concerns about sustainability, asking whether the township would be “dipping into fund balance and going more in the negative direction long term.”
In response, administrators said, “The intention would be to pursue revenues… and then a reevaluation at the end of the budget year.”
Key Points
- Verona introduced a 2026 budget with a reduced 2.84% tax increase
- Council debated use of surplus funds and need for new revenue sources
- Multiple ordinances were amended or delayed for further review
Council calls for stronger revenue strategy
The discussion revealed a broader push among council members to expand revenue streams rather than rely on reserves.
“I think we need to get really serious about… revenue generation,” McGrath said, warning that using surplus “is a temporary thing. It can’t be sustained.”
Mayor Tamburro echoed affordability concerns, noting, “Some people… are starting to get priced out. So we need to do whatever we can to keep those increases down.”
Councilman Alex Roman added that inflation continues to affect municipal operations. “Inflation hits us too,” he said. “All the cost of goods and services that we buy go up.”
The budget was formally introduced, with a public hearing scheduled for April 20.
Infrastructure projects and development updates
Township Manager Kevin O’Sullivan outlined multiple infrastructure projects moving forward across Verona.
“Our primary clarifier pump station project is substantially complete… the pump station is up and running,” he said.
Additional updates included:
- The Fairview Avenue well project expected to begin mobilization in April
- Ongoing Linn Drive construction with active roadway work
- Progress at Everett Field, including playground installation
- Near completion of the Peckman River bank stabilization project
O’Sullivan noted, “There is a lot of work that’s been going on… and it will remain a pretty active roadway and construction project for the next several weeks.”
Ordinances spark debate over safety and enforcement
Council members engaged in detailed discussions on several ordinances, including pest control requirements tied to demolition projects.
Deputy Mayor Jack McEvoy pushed for stricter standards, citing recent issues. “That period of time is just honestly not enough to eradicate any type of infestation,” he said, advocating for extending requirements from 14 to 30 days.
Rather than approve the measure as written, the council voted to amend and reintroduce it.
A separate ordinance addressing open burning also drew scrutiny. Officials clarified the measure is intended to target unsafe disposal practices. “This is strictly open burning of… garbage, hazardous materials, plant life,” administrators said, noting it would not restrict recreational fire pits.
Council members flagged ambiguities in the language, particularly around what constitutes an “approved container,” delaying introduction pending revisions.
Public input focuses on pool revenue, marketing
During public comment, one resident urged the township to focus more aggressively on revenue generation, particularly at the municipal pool.
“I think there are departments within Verona that we need to drive revenue,” the speaker said. “Let’s try to close that… we’re not using surplus.”
The resident also raised concerns about pool registration trends and marketing efforts, suggesting increased outreach.
In response, officials said a pool marketing committee is scheduled to meet March 31. “We will be… brainstorming ideas on appropriate marketing approaches,” O’Sullivan said.
Additional updates and recognitions
The meeting also featured recognition of the Verona fifth-grade girls basketball team, which completed an undefeated 21-0 season. “It was a pleasure to watch,” Tamburro said.
Council members highlighted upcoming community events, including the Women of Impact program and Cherry Blossom Festival activities in Essex County.
The council concluded the public portion of the meeting before entering executive session.
