Is Your Property Tax Bill at Risk? Local Leaders Demand Action on Soaring State Costs

Ridgewood Leaders Take the Fight to Trenton: Tackling Skyrocketing Costs and Housing Mandates

photo courtesy of Village Manager Keith Kazmark

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood, NJ.,On April 2nd, Mayor Paul Vagianos and Village Manager Keith Kazmark stepped up to the plate, joining an emergency summit of leaders from across Legislative District 40. Meeting face-to-face with Senator Kristin Corrado, Assemblyman Chris DePhillips, and Assemblyman Al Barlas, Ridgewood’s leadership made it clear: local taxpayers need relief, and they need it now.

Here is an inside look at the high-stakes issues discussed and what they mean for your wallet and your neighborhood.

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1. The Fight Against Skyrocketing Health Benefit Costs

One of the biggest “invisible” pressures on the Ridgewood municipal budget is the State Health Benefits Plan (SHBP). Costs have been surging at an alarming rate, creating a massive hurdle for local fiscal planning. Mayor Vagianos and Manager Kazmark pushed for state-level solutions to prevent these rising premiums from trickling down directly into local property taxes.

2. Navigating the “Fair Share” Housing Mandate

Affordable housing is a hot-button issue across New Jersey. The Ridgewood team discussed the complexities of Fair Share Housing requirements. The goal? Finding a balance that meets state mandates while preserving the unique character and infrastructure capacity of our Village.

3. PFAS Compliance: Leading on Clean Water

While Ridgewood is already a pioneer in water safety (with 11 of 12 treatment facilities expected online by late 2026), the financial burden of PFAS compliance remains a major topic. Leadership is advocating for more state support to ensure Ridgewood residents aren’t footing the bill alone for clean, safe drinking water.

4. Strengthening Law Enforcement

Safety remains a top priority. The meeting addressed the evolving needs of local law enforcement, ensuring our police department has the staffing, training, and equipment necessary to protect the community in an increasingly complex legal landscape.

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Why Regional Collaboration Matters

By joining forces with other towns in District 40, Ridgewood ensures its voice is amplified in the State House.

“Thanks to the LD-40 team for providing open communication with each of the towns who attended,” said Village Manager Keith Kazmark.

This type of direct dialogue with Senator Corrado and Assemblymen DePhillips and Barlas is crucial for securing the state funding and legislative changes Ridgewood needs to thrive.

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