Gina Genovese

Property Taxes
The 2% property tax cap is NOT a solution. It is a compounded increase. In 2015 our NJ statewide property taxes increased by $540 Million. In 2016 by $703 Million. Do we need to wait until property taxes increase by $1 Billion before we act?

I pledge to reduce property taxes by at least 15% in four years. This will put $4 Billion annually back into our economy.

We have already taken the first steps toward reducing the number of municipalities and school districts! Princeton consolidated from 2 separate governments serving 1 community in 2013. South Hunterdon regionalized 4 school districts into ONE district with one administration in 2014. South Hunterdon received NO State financial support for their study. The citizens of Roxbury and Mount Arlington are looking into combining both their schools and towns for more efficient ways to provide services and education. Their Consolidation Study Commission is currently getting NO financial support from the State. As governor, I will fully fund the work of this Commission and other commissions that follow.

Pension Reform
There is no single solution to the pension problem. Many small steps can make a lasting impact and minimize the pain for everyone involved. Tie pensions to lifetime salary levels NOT last 1-3 years which encourages pension padding.

• Require full retirement from Local, County and State employment before pensions are paid. No active employees will receive pensions.
• Eliminate pensions for professional service contractors, lobbyists and consultants.
• Increase minimum salary amount for inclusion in pension and health care systems to $20K.
• Reassess eligibility age for retirement.
• Tie cost-of-living increases to continued residency in New Jersey so retirees are spending their money in the state.
• Review pension management fees and seek better options. $640 Million in management fees and profit sharing is unacceptable.

Economic Development
We can no longer wait to focus on economic growth. New Jersey has many different regions with different needs.

• Partner with businesses to create Innovation Centers for engaging young, under-employed residents to find creative solutions to today's problems.
• Create rewards for businesses that revitalize their businesses and create jobs.
• Develop regional strategies for growth that meet the needs of each distinct area of the state.
• Coordinate state-wide development efforts to eliminate competition between neighboring towns.
• Build on our educational and business partnerships to stimulate growth
• Create significant incentives for small businesses with 50 and under employees. Small businesses are the backbone of New Jersey. We must support their growth so more small businesses can survive and thrive.
• Support and stimulate smart local redevelopment.^[5]