Here's How Merger Of Seaside Park, South Seaside Park Would Impact Borough

SEASIDE PARK, NJ — What impacts would the merger of South Seaside Park and Seaside Park have? It could reduce taxes by 40 to 51 percent, according to a new report.

The nearly 300-page report, completed by Government Strategy Group, outlines the impacts of annexing a portion of Berkeley Township to the borough.

READ MORE: South Seaside Park Can Split From Berkeley: What Comes Next?

The report comes as a result of a longtime fight from the South Seaside Park residents to leave Berkeley, as they are physically separated from the mainland and find they have more in common with neighboring Seaside Park.

Seaside Park still must vote to accept South Seaside Park.

The report notes that Seaside Park residents could see a decrease in their taxes, but regional school tax allocation could increase by 62 percent.

Overall revenues and expenditures will increase, but expenditures will remain proportionate. Immediate expenses could be offset by longer-term tax revenue, according to the report.

"Annexation does not inherently create a fiscal burden; rather, it requires deliberate financial planning," the report reads.

More beach area will generate beach badge revenue, though more beach staff and police will be needed.

"Long-term fiscal sustainability is achievable with disciplined financial management and realistic implementation over time," the report reads.

If Seaside Park decides to move forward with the merger, the report notes that a thoughtful and deliberate approach is the best option.

"This study concludes that annexation of South Seaside Park is neither inherently compelled nor inherently prohibitive. It is a policy choice that carries identifiable responsibilities, costs, and opportunities," the report reads.

You can read the full report here.