In a coordinated effort, the Mayors of Edison, Highland Park, and Metuchen have all agreed to bring legislation to their Councils that will drastically lower the interest rate on late property tax payments, which in effect extends the grace period for the second quarter tax payment from Friday, May 11th to Friday, May 29th. This proposed action is intended to ease the financial burden on property owners who may not be able to make their quarterly payments by May 1st. The new rate would be the lowest permitted by state law at .000001 percent.

The Highland Park Council unanimously approved the proposal at its meeting on Tuesday, April 21^st and the Edison and Metuchen Councils will be meeting on Wednesday, April 22^nd.

“Residents throughout Edison have felt the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Edison Mayor Thomas Lankey.  “We have been working to try and mitigate the personal and financial impacts of this unprecedented situation with every resource at our disposal and this rate adjustment is being proposed with an eye towards providing some relief for Township taxpayers.  We appreciate the leadership on display on the federal, state, county and local levels throughout government and we look forward to working in partnership to continue providing necessary relief for all those we represent.”

“I’m continuously shaken by all the cascading effects of this pandemic – overtaxed health care facilities, layoffs and furloughs, closed store fronts, and rising ranks of residents who are justifiably anxious about their futures,” said Gayle Brill Mittler, Mayor of Highland Park. “The temporary lowering of the interest rate for late payments is a gesture of solidarity and support, to say we hurt with you and we care.”

“This is one way that we might be able to support our struggling property owners,” said Jonathan Busch, Mayor of Metuchen. “The economic impact that this pandemic is having on many in our community is overwhelming so we will continue to do our part to support our residents in every way we can.”

The municipalities have also agreed to explore additional relief for their residents should the State offer additional guidance or opportunities.

Residents of each municipality are advised to check their municipalities’ website, for information on how to submit tax payments and/or to submit inquiries on specific questions.