Some New Jersey towns turn to increased, added fees

Facing less state aid, some of New Jersey’s more than 500 towns are adding user fees or have increased current fees in order to generate revenue.

The Statehouse Bureau reports a third of the state’s 566 towns responded to a New Jersey League of Municipalities and Rutgers University survey, with 47 percent raising or increasing user fees.

A majority of the towns reported cutting staff and sharing services, with some towns also considering collecting revenue from other sources. The Statehouse Bureau says increased and added fees is in part a way for many towns to help cope with the 2 percent cap on property taxes, which went into effect in January.

Have you noticed increased or added fees in your town? Are you okay with paying more to help your town generate revenue? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.