TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON—Administrator Mark DiCarlo said Nov. 10 that a contractor will soon begin grounding the 10 light poles at Memorial Field to reduce the risk of electric shock, following a recent discovery that the poles posed a hazard.
DiCarlo said K. Hanrahan Enterprises of Fair Lawn, which upgraded the field’s floodlights to LEDs in 2021, will perform the work. The project includes grounding each pole, replacing switch covers, and adding protective padding at each base to help prevent injuries from falls.
He said the contract cost is $21,389.80, compared with a more than $40,000 proposal submitted by S.M. Electric Group.
For background, see “Memorial Field Shock Warnings: Accident surfaces wiring concern over 10 newer light poles; town says fixes due ‘soon’” by Michael Olohan, Oct. 31, 2025, thepressgroup.net.
DiCarlo also said Hanrahan will replace several floodlights that have burned out since their 2021 installation. The LED lights carry a five-year warranty, he noted, but the township must rent a lift to reach them.
New property reassessments in 2026
In other business, DiCarlo reported that township revaluation inspectors have gained entry to about 67% of homes. Sales analysis and preliminary values are underway, and Appraisal Systems Inc. (ASI), the firm conducting the reassessment, expects to mail new valuation letters in early 2026.
After the initial revaluation, 25% of township properties will be physically inspected each year to keep valuations current, while all properties will be reassessed annually to reflect market changes and prevent sudden shifts in assessed value, officials said.
New property values will take effect for the 2026 tax year and reflect market conditions as of Oct. 1, 2025. Homeowners will receive notice of their proposed assessments by mail and will have an opportunity to appeal.
Residents with unique property conditions that may affect value may submit documentation to Appraisal Systems, Inc., 17-17 Route 208 North, Suite 210, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410.
On Sept. 9, 2024, the Township Council approved Resolution 24-309, awarding a five-year, $470,000 contract for township-wide reassessment services to Appraisal Systems. It was the only bid received.
For background, see “Township reassessment underway; interior inspections urged,” by Michael Olohan, March 22, 2025, thepressgroup.net.