Voters need to reverse trend of high taxation
There is a very disturbing trend that is taking the state of New Jersey down a road of economic and social ruin. It seems that every week, Gov. Jon Corzine and the majority in Trenton roll out another costly social program that will further burden the New Jersey taxpayer.

Programs such as Abbott funding, schools construction, the Family Medical Leave Act, expanded day care, government subsidized housing and universal health care are costing billions at a time when most people are struggling just to pay their property taxes. While all of these programs sound noble in their intent, they are not free and come at an enormous cost to the already overburdened New Jersey taxpayer.

In the recently passed state budget, new programs were added and existing ones were expanded, while property tax rebates and municipal aid to suburban towns were severely cut or eliminated. One of the most egregious examples is the money for schools construction. Even after the initial $8.5 billion for schools construction was either misused or unaccounted for, the governor has earmarked an additional $3.9 billion for the same program without voter approval.

Simply put, this is outrageous. The New Jersey taxpayer cannot afford to subsidize these bloated, wasteful programs anymore. In addition to the highest property taxes in the country, New Jersey has seen its sales tax increased and taxes placed on water, tires, hospital beds, health club memberships and on. Even people who move out of the state are hit with an "exit tax." Many critics of the governor's policies state that these programs constitute a redistribution of wealth. However, we as taxpayers do not have to stand idly by and let this happen. It is critical to the future of our state that every voter be informed about the issues and know where those who are running for office stand.

For much of its existence, New Jersey was a state known for its low taxes, bucolic landscape and prosperity. As voters, we have the power to reverse the trend of high taxation and big government programs and return the state to its former glory.
Mayor Gerry
Scharfenberger
Middletown Township