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| Entrance to the Essex County Dog Park at the South Mountain Reservation |
Many conversations at neighborhood barbecues, soccer matches and dinner parties eventually find their way to the subject of real estate taxes. Have you ever noticed that when the subject rears its head in a social setting it inevitably turns happy, laughing people into whining, negative Nellies?
Yet, as Essex County residents we enjoy many benefits these needed revenues support. Our streets are pretty clean, our roads need work but they function pretty well, public education is highly rated in the county, and there are so many recreational opportunities to enjoy.
Yes, New Jersey does have relatively high taxes. It is also true that Essex County, NJ has higher real estate taxes compared to other counties in the state. However, they are still lower than equally affluent, commutable suburban towns in Westchester, and Nassau, Long Island.
As an active community member I enjoy many of the county's public recreational offerings. While I have a partial view of Manhattan from my deck, I can also hike, bike and run in thousands of wooded acres just two blocks from my front door. For me, this unique access is the perfect juxtaposition of my personal interests.
We are fortunate to have 3 well rated public golf courses in the county, an indoor skating rink, beautiful parks, soccer fields, tennis courts, and the magical Dog Park at the South Mountain Reservation. Not just any park, this county dog park is a serious one.
When you lay eyes on it you can tell it was a very well thought out project. The dramatic entry includes a large bronzed statue of a dog elevated on professionally landscaped stones, gravel and greenery. There are 2 large fenced in areas (1 for large dogs and 1 for small dogs), trash bag dispensers for cleaning up after the dogs, trash receptacles, cooling tubs running water and park benches. The dogs love the activity and socialization it provides and their owners bond over doggie stories and training tips.
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| Modeled after a Ratweiller this iconic sculpture is a great piece of art to enjoy |
