According to the misinformed Zena Bible, the farmer receives favorable farmland tax for which the rest of the community pays the difference. This is not true.
The farmer pays full tax on his house and 1 acre, just like everyone else. It is only the land he farms that is farmland assessed, made possible through the Beadleston Act of 1964.
If that act were not passed, there would be no farms in New Jersey to save now. Ms. Bible should also bear in mind that hay, soybeans, corn, horses and cattle don’t go to school, but they do pay 77 cents more in taxes than they receive in services.
Howell’s Farmers Advisory Committee extended an invitation to the Township Council to attend our June meeting to discuss farm and zoning issues. However, we were not given the courtesy of even a reply as we attempted to open up communication. If the council wants to rezone, include the farmer to see if a compromise can be reached.
On Sept. 10 the public hearing on the rezoning of north Howell from 1- to 2-acre zoning to 6-acre zoning will continue at town hall. To keep the farmer viable and in business, 3-acre zoning should be considered instead.
All property owners and farmers should attend. Eventually, as they change the master plan you also will be included in this rezoning and devaluing of your property.
Carol Reed
Chairwoman
Howell Farmers
Advisory Committee
Howell