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Belleville Property Tax Assessments Under Review: Deadline Approaching

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 17:16 GMT by Patch
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

Belleville, NJ - February 16th, 2026 - Residents of Belleville and Nutley are navigating a landscape of local government updates, ranging from crucial property tax assessments to the progress of a transformative infrastructure project, and welcoming new leadership to the town council. This report provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments in both communities.

Property Tax Assessments: A Call for Resident Review in Belleville

The Belleville town council is currently engaged in a vital review of property tax assessments, a process that directly impacts the financial obligations of homeowners. This annual review aims to ensure fair and accurate valuations, reflecting current market conditions. Mayor Michael Melham has urged all residents to carefully examine their assessment notices, emphasizing the availability of an appeals process for those who believe their valuations are inaccurate. The deadline to submit an appeal is rapidly approaching - February 20th - making swift action crucial for concerned property owners.

This year's review comes amidst ongoing debate regarding property tax burdens in New Jersey. Rising property values, while generally positive for homeowners, can also translate to increased tax bills. The appeals process allows residents to challenge assessments based on factors like inaccurate property descriptions, overvaluation compared to similar properties, or flaws in the assessment methodology. Local officials anticipate a potentially high volume of appeals given recent market fluctuations and are encouraging residents to gather supporting documentation - such as recent appraisals or sales data of comparable properties - to strengthen their cases. The council has stated it is committed to transparency throughout the assessment process and will provide resources to assist residents in understanding their rights and options.

Dr. Sharon Brown Assumes Role as New Belleville Council Member

The recent Belleville council election has concluded, with Dr. Sharon Brown officially declared the winner. Dr. Brown, a practicing optometrist, ran a campaign centered on fostering greater community engagement and enhancing the quality of local town services. Her victory signals a potential shift in priorities for the council, with a strong emphasis expected on resident collaboration and responsiveness. Dr. Brown's background in healthcare suggests a focus on public well-being and access to vital resources. She has already expressed her commitment to working with fellow council members to address pressing issues such as infrastructure improvements, public safety, and responsible fiscal management.

Sources close to Dr. Brown indicate she plans to hold regular town hall meetings to solicit feedback from residents and build consensus around key initiatives. Her election is seen by many as a positive step towards greater representation and inclusivity in Belleville's local government. The new council member is expected to be sworn into office at the next town council meeting, where she will outline her initial priorities and vision for the town.

ICE Train Tunnel Project: A Cornerstone of NJ Transportation Infrastructure

The Intermodal Container Express (ICE) train tunnel project, a massive undertaking spearheaded by New Jersey Transit, is steadily progressing towards completion. This ambitious project aims to significantly boost freight rail capacity and alleviate congestion caused by truck traffic throughout the region. NJ Transit officials have consistently highlighted the project's economic benefits, emphasizing its potential to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce environmental impact. The tunnel will allow for the efficient transport of goods, bypassing heavily trafficked roadways and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

The project involves the construction of a new rail tunnel connecting New Jersey with Pennsylvania, allowing for increased freight capacity without disrupting passenger rail service. Challenges encountered during construction - including unexpected geological conditions and supply chain disruptions - have been addressed through innovative engineering solutions and proactive project management. The latest reports from NJ Transit indicate the project remains on schedule, with an anticipated completion date in late 2028.

"The ICE project represents a critical investment in New Jersey's transportation infrastructure," stated a NJ Transit spokesperson. "It's not just about moving freight; it's about building a more sustainable and economically vibrant future for our state."

Other Notable News from Belleville & Nutley

Beyond these key developments, local news highlights include a Belleville student recently achieving the prestigious Eagle Scout rank, demonstrating leadership and community service; the Nutley Board of Education's ongoing discussions regarding the upcoming school budget, focusing on maintaining educational quality while managing financial constraints; and the successful participation of local businesses in the annual Winter Festival, showcasing the vibrancy of the community's commercial sector.