Senator Anthony M. Bucco said on Apr. 17 that the State of New Jersey has not fulfilled its commitments to communities in the Highlands region, following the publication of an op-ed criticizing Trenton’s actions. Bucco pointed to ongoing challenges faced by towns such as Jefferson and West Milford due to development restrictions imposed for environmental protection.
The issue centers on financial burdens experienced by local families and schools when economic growth is limited to preserve natural resources. Bucco said his recently introduced legislation aims to address these concerns by providing additional state aid to school districts unable to expand their tax base because of land use regulations.
“Jeff Tittel and I have not always seen eye to eye, but his latest op-ed hits the nail on the head,” said Senator Bucco. “For years, Highlands communities like Jefferson and West Milford have done their part to protect one of New Jersey’s most important natural resources. They accepted limits on economic growth and community development for the benefit of the entire state with the understanding that Trenton would be a true partner. Instead, the State has repeatedly fallen short.”
Bucco described how towns prevented from expanding face increased financial pressure on residents and schools: “When towns are prevented from expanding their tax base, the financial pressure falls directly on families and local schools. The people of the Highlands should not be penalized for protecting the water that New Jerseyans across the state rely on and it is exactly what our legislation seeks to correct.”
According to the official website, Bucco serves as Senate Republican Leader representing New Jersey’s 25th Legislative District, chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee, serves on both Judiciary and Budget Committees, provides constituent services through a district office and email for legislative inquiries, sponsors bills, co-sponsors legislation, contributes in committee discussions regarding key issues facing New Jersey.
As debate continues over balancing environmental protection with local fiscal health in restricted areas like those in Highlands communities, observers will watch whether Bucco’s proposed ‘Fairness for School Districts in Development Restricted Areas Act’ advances.
