Councilwoman Mason Urges Public To Attend Next Council Meeting

Hoboken's surplus has been a point of contention in the Hoboken blogosphere for a couple of weeks now. 

Second Ward Councilwoman Beth Mason, who lost to current Mayor Dawn Zimmer in the last mayoral race, is now making an issue of the surplus, urging city officials to return it to taxpayers. Mason. who earlier sent out a notice asking the city to refund the surplus, is now asking the public to speak up about the new budget that will be introduced at the Sept 1. Council meeting. 

Here's what she says in her latest note: 

"Dear Friend,

If you overpaid your phone bill would you ask for your money back? What about your tax bill? 

Two years ago Hoboken's municipal taxes went up 84%, and the city has been overtaxing you ever since. This resulted in a $20 million tax surplus, but the politicians in City Hall don't want to give your money back. They want to keep it.  And worse yet they want to spend it. 

Hoboken Business Administrator Arch Liston is on record saying that the upcoming budget will not provide any real tax relief. Liston says returning your money would be "totally irresponsible".  

Instead he and Mayor Zimmer plan to continue to overtax you and spend your money on labor contracts in 2011 rather than make good on their promise to provide a 25% tax cut. 

I urge you to make your voice heard at the next Hoboken City Council meeting on September 1. Tell City Hall to give your money back and cut your taxes immediately.      

Beth@MasonCityCouncil.org.   I look forward to speaking with you soon."