Barbara Shafer Pads Paycheck with Property Tax Hike

NEPTUNE CITY - Neptune City Councilwoman Barbara Shafer is facing an uphill battle for re-election after sizable tax hikes and gaps in school funding were met with a salary increase for her and other local politicians.

Many local residents have found themselves struggling in the wake of rising property taxes; Neptune City taxes have increased 53% over the past 10 years. Critics have objected to the use of taxpayer money for expanding Council paychecks and have questioned Shafer's commitment to filling the funding gaps at Woodrow Wilson School and elsewhere.

Shafer is facing criticism from both sides of the aisle for "padding her paycheck." She was met with resistance by Councilwoman Pamela Renee who fought against the measure and voted "NO." Renee was joined in this resistance by Council running mate Glen Kocsis, a local sheet metal worker who has never run for office before.

Shafer faces a difficult re-election this year, especially in the face of tax increases and stagnant funding accompanied by apathy from her own supporters. Election Day is on Tuesday, November 7th.