Morris County Property Taxes Down .8 Percent, Freeholder Says

Morris County property taxes fell .8 percent last year, the only county drop in the state, according to Freeholder Director Tom Mastrangelo.

In a press release sent Monday, Mastrangelo, a Montville resident, credited Gov. Chris Christie and his administration for redirecting property taxes downward through legislation enacted during his tenure.

"By enacting salary arbitration, health benefits, and pension reform, local government was given the tools to reduce property taxes and in Morris County we did," he said.

Mastrangelo said the .8 percent figure was inclusive of local, school and county levies. The county was able to maintain a bond rating of AAA.

"In 2013 we are seeking no increase in property tax dollars to run county government while still delivering essential services. With the assistance and hard work of the department heads and employees of county government, I believe we can achieve this goal," Mastrangelo said.

The freeholder director said he plans to increase shared services efforts and cut spending. He will also call for the state legislature to pass sick-pay and civil service reform.

"I know my fellow freeholders are ready to roll up their sleeves and work together for smaller, smarter government, so we can continue to deliver tax relief to the residents of Morris County," he said.