In a news report on Fox 29 tonight, Mayor DiDonato extolled the virtues of a toll increase on New Jersey’s interstates. He hopes it could bring more business to stores and roadside stands located in Hammonton.

you ask almost any driver, they’ll likely say they’re against raising tolls. That’s what New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine wants to do to cut at least half of the state’s 32 billion dollar debt.

Like many motorists, Bruce Slawter feels, “It’s just going to be another bill for us basically.”

But after scrutinizing the proposal some people say it’s not a completely bad idea.

“You’re going to see some increased traffic on some of our local roads,” said John DiDonado the mayor of Hammonton, New Jersey. He says small townships like his could actually see some benefit from drivers looking for alternate routes to avoid higher tolls.

Click the image to watch:

Vision Properties’ newest development, Raspberry Run received a 5 year tax abatement allowed in a 2000 ordinance that promotes business development in Hammonton.

According to the ordinance,here’s the tax schedule:

As to the assessed valuation of the property that was increased beyond the assessed valuation referred to in Subsection A of this § 254-15 due to the construction:
(1) In the first full tax year after completion, no payment in lieu of taxes otherwise due.
(2) In the second tax year, an amount not less than 20% of taxes otherwise due.
(3) In the third tax year, an amount not less than 40% of taxes otherwise due.
(4) In the fourth tax year, an amount not less than 60% of taxes otherwise due.
(5) In the fifth tax year, an amount not less than 80% of taxes otherwise due.

After the five year period, Rasberry Run will then be charged the assessed value for the property.

A few other properties got exemptions as well. Here’s the list from the agenda:

RESOLUTION # 177 – 2007
RESOLUTION GRANTING TAX EXEMPTION PURSUANT
TO ORDINANCE 8-2000
WHEREAS, the following properties have made application pursuant to Ordinance 8-2000 for a five (5)
year exemption and abatement application:
Block 403 Lot 1 Vision Properties/Raspberry Run LLC
Block 1102 Lot 41 Onsite Properties LLC
Block 2519 Lot 5 Cornelius, Theodore & Beverly
Block 2526 Lot 1 Berenato, Joseph Jr.
WHEREAS, Mary Joan Wyatt, Tax Assessor of the Town of Hammonton has reviewed application(s)
and determined property(s) qualify for exemption and/or abatement consistent with the provisions of Ordinance 8-
2000.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Common Council of the Town of Hammonton
in the County of Atlantic and State of New Jersey that the above listed property(s) be granted a tax exemption per
Ordinance 8-2000 for no more than (5) years.

Councilman Ed Wuillerman served as Mayor for the ordinance’s approval as Mayor DiDonato recused himself.

While the Hammonton Home Depot is in the final planning stages, The Brewery has received word Lowe’s is not far behind.  It’s been said Lowe’s purchased property adjacent to Wal-Mart on Route 30, and will soon begin the approvals process.