Whether you are a Republican or a Democrat one must wonder why Union County Freeholders have passed a budget of $302.5 million dollars? It’s only $11.3 million more than last year?

Even if the increase only means $90 per household as Freeholders claim, but it’s $90 that many families cannot afford.

The weight of the tax burden has now pushed many properties into foreclosure or short sale, but the Freeholders still insist they need additional funds to manage 21 municipalities that are already struggling to maintain their own budgets. Successful tax appeals have been added to the mix and are painful for the municipalities because it means that homeowners are credited for money that has already been budgeted.

First-time home buyers are actually turned away by lenders due to burgeoning taxes, an additional $1,000 a month is a deal breaker. How much more financial burden can be carried by the tax payers in Union County?

During this election season it is important to residents to exercise their right to VOTE and change the Freeholder Board that has put us in a position that may force many of us to walk away from our most precious asset – home.  

I am your Union County Freeholder Candidate that represents the PEOPLE!

It is now your turn to vote Change!

Diane Barabas

Union County Freeholder Candidate