JACKSON, N.J. — The Jackson Board of Education last Thursday unanimously rejected a proposal from the New Jersey Commissioner of Education that would have allowed a 28% school tax increase—blasting the plan as an overreach and reaffirming its opposition to what it described as a crushing financial demand on residents.
The vote came after nearly three hours behind closed doors in a special meeting prompted by a directive tied to the district’s preliminary school budget. Under the proposal, districts labeled “below adequacy” could bypass the state’s 2% tax levy cap and raise taxes to meet funding targets. For Jackson, that would have meant a dramatic spike in local taxes, following last year’s state-imposed 9.9% increase.
Despite pressure and the promise of a $1 million incentive for compliance, the board stood firm.
“The Jackson Board of Education made the right call by refusing to place this massive tax burden on our residents,” said Giuseppe Palmeri, former Board president and current liaison to the board. “This is state overreach, plain and simple.”
According to the state’s guidance, more than 300 school districts fall below adequacy.
If each raised taxes as suggested, the state would need $300 million to fulfill its bonus promise.
The board questioned the credibility of such a fund, calling instead for the money to be directed to districts most affected by the S2 funding cuts—such as Jackson.
Residents and officials alike have decried the proposal as another blow to Jackson’s taxpayers, who already contribute through state income taxes. Critics argue those funds should support their local schools rather than being redirected to other municipalities.
“If that money exists, why not direct it toward the districts hit hardest by the S2 cuts—like Jackson?” Palmeri said.
Last year, the Board’s attempt to block a 9.9% tax increase was overridden by a state-appointed fiscal monitor. This time, the board preemptively rejected the new option, maintaining its stance against further hikes.
- The Jackson Board of Education unanimously rejected a proposed 28% school tax increase permitted under a new state directive.
- The state offered a $1 million bonus to any district that complies, raising doubts about where $300 million in incentive funding would come from.
- Township Council and school officials united in condemning the proposal as unfair and harmful to Jackson taxpayers.