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Verona Residents Grapple with Rising Property Taxes

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 11:02 GMT by Patch
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

VERONA, N.J. - February 14th, 2026 - Residents of Verona and Cedar Grove are focused on a trio of key issues: rising property taxes, the outcomes of Tuesday's local elections, and the ongoing development of the Essex-Morris Ice Train Tunnel project. This report provides a detailed look at each of these topics, outlining concerns, results, and future developments.

Property Tax Assessments Spark Debate & Appeals

The recent distribution of property tax assessment notices has ignited a wave of discussion amongst Verona homeowners. Many are expressing concern over potential tax increases, prompting a close examination of the assessment process and a surge in interest regarding the filing of appeals. The annual assessment is a crucial process that determines the value assigned to properties for taxation purposes. While the stated goal is to reflect fair market value, homeowners often believe assessments don't accurately reflect their property's condition or recent comparable sales.

This year, a noticeable increase in assessed values has led to particular anxiety. Several residents have reported significant jumps in their assessments, even in the absence of substantial improvements to their properties. This disparity has fueled speculation about the methodology used in the assessments and calls for greater transparency. The Verona Board of Assessment Appeals held a meeting on February 13th to begin the process of reviewing these appeals. Residents who filed challenges presented their cases, often supported by independent appraisals and data on comparable properties.

The Board faces a challenging task: balancing the need to accurately assess property values with the desire to ensure fairness and affordability for residents. The outcome of these appeals will have a significant impact on the tax burden faced by many Verona homeowners. Experts suggest that homeowners carefully review their assessment notices, gather supporting documentation, and attend the appeals hearing to effectively present their case.

Local Election Results: Continuity and Fresh Faces

The results of Tuesday's election signaled a desire for both continuity and fresh perspectives in Verona's local government. Incumbent Bob McCarthy secured another term as Mayor, demonstrating continued public confidence in his leadership. His victory suggests voters appreciate his established track record and vision for the town.

Joining McCarthy in shaping the future of Verona are newly elected Council members Gina Itri and James Butcher. Both candidates ran on platforms focused on responsible fiscal management and maintaining the quality of life in Verona. Itri, a long-time resident, emphasized the importance of community engagement, while Butcher highlighted the need for improved infrastructure.

The Board of Education also saw changes with the election of Jennifer Guariglia and Kevin Felici. Guariglia, a parent of school-aged children, campaigned on promises to prioritize student well-being and enhance educational programs. Felici, with a background in finance, pledged to ensure fiscal responsibility within the school district. The combined experience and perspectives of these newly elected officials promise a dynamic and productive governing body.

Essex-Morris Ice Train Tunnel: A Step Towards Reducing Congestion

The Essex-Morris Ice Train Tunnel project continues to make steady progress, representing a potentially transformative solution to the chronic traffic congestion plaguing the region. This ambitious infrastructure project aims to create a dedicated rail line for freight trains, diverting them away from busy roadways and alleviating bottlenecks.

The project's scope extends beyond simply constructing a tunnel. It involves significant upgrades to existing rail infrastructure, the acquisition of new rolling stock (the 'Ice Trains' themselves), and the development of intermodal transfer facilities. Recent updates confirm the project is currently in the advanced stages of design and planning. Engineers are finalizing the tunnel's specifications, conducting environmental impact assessments, and coordinating with local municipalities.

Community meetings, such as those scheduled in the coming weeks, are crucial for fostering transparency and addressing resident concerns. These meetings provide a platform for project stakeholders to present updates, answer questions, and gather feedback. Residents have expressed interest in details regarding construction timelines, potential disruptions, and long-term benefits. The project is expected to generate economic benefits through job creation and increased freight efficiency, while also reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality. Success hinges on continued collaboration between the project team, local authorities, and the community.