Mayor's Message -- April 2019

     It is important for everyone to know what is happening and be informed about future events.

     I try to keep Oakland residents current with news in our town.  I report upcoming events during my mayor's message at the beginning of every council meeting.  I then summarize in my mayor's Facebook page subsequently.  Now I have the opportunity to reach residents through our monthly newsletter. Thank you, Newsletter Editor Elizabeth Llorente, for taking on this task.

     I want to make sure that interested and qualified residents are aware of the "Senior Freeze Program," offering some tax relief in the form of a senior property tax freeze program.

     This Senior Freeze Program is available to residents 65 and older or individuals with disabilities who meet the eligibility requirements.  The income eligibility amount to qualify for the 2018 year is $89,013 for single or combined income if married or in a civil union.

     According to the New Jersey Department of Taxation, all income for the year must be taken into account and are given a base amount.  Taxpayers must pay the full tax bill every year.  The state program will reimburse the taxpayer any amount paid that exceeds the base. Forms must be filed annually. There are rules and regulations.  For further information call 1-800-882-6597.  Forms are available online at https://www.state.nj.us/treasury/taxation/ptr/printform.shtml

     The deadline to file the application is October 31st. 

     Until next time,

     Linda