Mayor: Moorestown in an 'Exciting Place and Time'

To the editor:

As the dog days of summer slowly begin to ebb, I want to provide the next of my periodic updates on the state of things in our great township. We’re in an exciting place and time, so it’s nice to be able to share some good news.

Moorestown is uniquely postured for the future. Even during these difficult times, we have tremendous economic development underway that will increase our ratable base, provide many new jobs and increase our standard of living. I am also proud of our strong fiscal health. We are spending less to run our township than we did in 2008 and our debt is lower than it was then as well. Our declining debt service requirement leaves us well-positioned to address the major capital projects under consideration.

On the revenue side, we have over $100 million in new projects being developed, which will provide an additional $2+ million in new tax revenue to our township (including the board of education and fire service).

continues to proceed very well and they expect to open within the next few months. We remain proactive in assisting them to meet their targeted opening date.  

and, if things go as planned, we will issue four new liquor licenses to Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust (PREIT), the Moorestown Mall owner, in early September. and the final steps in the issuance process are being completed now. As many of you know, the issuance of these liquor licenses will provide the township with $4 million in revenue this year. We are looking forward to the , as well as and fine dining restaurants that will mark an exciting new era for our township and our mall.

Some other important economic development activities that are in planning and development include a skilled nursing facility at Marter Avenue and Main Street, a Lockheed Martin expansion, 122 age-restricted units from Toll Brothers, and some new potential retail activity on Main Street and Camden Avenue.

that will help . This process is scheduled to be completed in October and will affect our 2013 property assessments. This is an important step in rectifying some of the inequities that have existed since the economy took such a severe dip.   

Much attention has been focused recently on two key projects before council that have been in the planning stages for an extended period of time: some required sports field upgrades and the Town Hall/Library project. Township manager Scott Carew is devoting a considerable amount of time and energy to drive these projects to a successful conclusion for the benefit of thousands of taxpayers and users.

The 2012 budget process took some time this year, but . That isn’t insignificant. A good number of towns have raised taxes to make up for lost state aid and falling revenues, but we bucked the trend by successfully reducing spending and keeping expenses in check. Our utility will see the debt service drop off by $1 million and already has a $2+ million surplus at a time when we have significant infrastructure issues to address, so we will begin that process right away and the impact, if any, can be easily absorbed into the existing cash flow from operations.

One distinguishing feature of Moorestown is its community spirit, as evidenced by the great volunteer efforts that continue to be reflected in so much that we do. Whether it is serving on a committee or participating in a club, in an ad hoc activity that arises from time to time, in our township government, in our local sports programs, or in whatever way best suits your interests, please get involved. Remember, the more you put into it, the more you will get from the experience!

With the new school year rapidly approaching, let me also welcome . We wish you the best in and we look forward to working with you for the benefit of our taxpayers and our children.

My continued appreciation for the honor of serving this great township.

John Button, Mayor
Township of Moorestown

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