EMERSON, N.J.—The Borough Council introduced Ordinance No. 1725-26, authorizing a special emergency appropriation of $445,000 for a boroughwide real property revaluation, at its June 23 meeting.
The ordinance is scheduled for a public hearing and possible adoption on July 14. It was not clear when the revaluation would occur, but if a fall 2026 revaluation takes place, tax rates would likely be adjusted in 2027.
Mayor Danielle DiPaola said towns generally pay for revaluations over a five-year period and do not place the full cost in a single annual budget. The ordinance notes the appropriation will be paid over five consecutive budget years to cover the $445,000 cost.
Also at the meeting, DiPaola announced that two local homes were chosen as winners in the borough’s Fourth of July Home Decorating Contest, held to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the nation’s Declaration of Independence.
A special presentation will be held at the July 14 council meeting to honor the winners. One winner was chosen for best nighttime display and one for best daytime display.
“All of the homes were lovely, and there were a lot of homes that were decorated who did not join the contest,” DiPaola said.
The nighttime winner was 91 Chestnut St., and the daytime winner was 100 Lozier Ave. Each winner will receive a $125 gift card. The contest webpage listed 10 local homes entered. Judging criteria included creativity and originality, visual impact, historical homage and theme interpretation. Runners-up will receive special commendations, according to contest rules.
DiPaola also urged residents to continue decorating their homes in red, white and blue to honor the patriots who fought for American independence. “Keep your decorations up and celebrate American independence all summer long,” the contest flier said.
Councilman O’Neil Ellis reported that DPW crews removed downed tree branches from six areas in town following a wind and rain storm in early June. He said one branch fell onto a car on Lozier Avenue.
DiPaola thanked the DPW for being proactive and said residents should contact DPW Director Perry Solimando if a tree or branch appears precarious. She said Solimando will follow up with residents if a branch looks unsafe and may need to be removed.
Administrator Michael Carelli said a “cost-effective approach” to replace the DPW salt shed will move forward with installation of a prefabricated building, along with repairs and improvements to the existing garage. He said the project will be completed with available funding, and a proposal for project engineering services will be presented July 14.