What it would take for a property tax revolt in NJ (Opinion)

It was just two weeks ago that Jim Gearhart suggested if Gov. Phil Murphy really cares about the people of New Jersey in the coronavirus crisis, he'll find a way to offer some kind of property tax relief.

It's no surprise to anyone in New Jersey that we pay the highest property taxes in the nation. But Jim constantly marvels that residents don't rise up in anger over the cost, Jim says in the latest edition of the weekly Jim Gearhart Show podcast and Facebook Live show. Sure, they grouse. Sure, they say they're fed up. But ultimately, they keep voting for political leaders who fail to do much about it.

And Jim wonders: If there was no mass revolt after a 106-year-old woman nearly lost her home to back property taxes, what, if anything, could prompt one?

Jim's got a suggestion: While the governor and legislature are passing all sorts of laws to help people through the crisis, pass one that makes it illegal for mortgage companies to roll property taxes into payments.

"Then everyone would know, four times a year, they have to dip into their cash, their food budget, run down and pay an exorbitant amount of money," Jim says.

Then, they'd really feel it, Jim figures. As is, retirees living in paid-off homes have to do that now. "And they're the ones who are the hardest hit."

Be sure to tell Jim and Bob Williams what you think: The Jim Gearhart show is LIVE on Facebook every Thursday at 10:30 a.m., at Facebook.com/NJ1015. Got an idea for an upcoming installment of Jim's show? Meet Jim at Facebook.com/NJ1015 to suggest it in the comments, or email Jim@nj1015.com.

The Jim Gearhart Show podcast is available every week on New Jersey 101.5 and in the New Jersey 101.5 app. You can also subscribe with your favorite podcasting app for iPhones, Android devices or your computer:

That's just part of what Jim and Bob Williams take on in the latest installment of his show, also available as a podcast. Check out the full episode to hear the rest.

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