Teaneck, NJ: In Teaneck, at the epicenter of NJ’s COVID-19 pandemic, too many residents have been hit hard by the loss of income caused by the novel coronavirus.

The People for Progress candidates, Denise Belcher, Ardie Walser, and Gina Gerszberg, have heard from hundreds of Teaneck homeowners who fear that they will be unable to make their next quarterly property tax payment, which is due on May 1st.

Belcher noted, “Homeowners who are unable to make their tax payments on time may be subject to interest rates as high as 18%, with an additional 6% penalty on any outstanding balances at year-end—and, ultimately, the prospect of losing their home.”

“Townships all over New Jersey have been looking at ways to protect residents facing economic hardship from penalties if they are unable to make their quarterly tax payments on time,” said Walser. “But in Teaneck, homeowners who have lost their jobs will now face extortionate interest and penalties from the township.”

Gerszberg pointed out that the only way to deal with the issue is to have a properly constituted special meeting called to deal with the problem by extending deadlines and/or reducing interest rates that would harm our most desperate residents already in crisis. “Why have there been no meetings since the virtual meeting on March 24 and none planned until May 19, a week after the council election is over?” she asked.

“It’s so disturbing to read about town councils across the state that have called special meetings and have taken action,” said Walser, “while Teaneck does nothing.”

Gerszberg concurred, saying “I reviewed the Township Code and four members can request a special meeting. We want council to meet to take immediate action to provide property tax relief for our hardest-hit residents, by cutting interest rates or extending due dates.”

Belcher said “This is the time for action, not empty gestures. It’s time for Teaneck to do what it has to in order to protect those of our neighbors who are facing extreme hardship. We demand that the council call a special meeting and take action. Now.”