The Oak Tree mobile home park was the center of attention, as both the rent and tax increases prompted discussion and public commentary. A representative for Oak Tree, Lori Greenberg, argued against the sharp tax increase, attributing it to a reassessment based on the property’s sale price. She described the increase as arbitrary, noting that Oak Tree’s taxes had risen much more than other parks. The council confirmed that the tax increase would result in an additional $59.98 per unit per month, effective November 1, 2025. Despite the ability of landlords to pass tax increases to tenants, Greenberg and a representative from Oak Tree proposed a voluntary reduction to cap the total rent increase at 5%, including both the CPI and tax charges, in an effort to alleviate financial strain on residents.

Residents voiced concerns over the impact of these increases, particularly those on fixed incomes. Jamie Zg, a senior resident, questioned how the 5% increase would be calculated, emphasizing the financial challenges faced by seniors. Another resident, Franklin D. Zotac Jr., raised questions about aesthetic costs and their justification, although he acknowledged his confusion with the discussion on CPI versus real estate taxes.

During public comments, residents continued to express concern over the financial implications of the increases. A resident with a pacemaker mentioned the affordability issues posed by the 5% increase, while another resident, Miss Walker, sought clarification on how property taxes for common areas like the clubhouse were allocated. The council explained that these areas were included in the overall tax bill.

Vetina Gorman, speaking on behalf of her 93-year-old mother, Dolores Oliva, highlighted the burden of multiple rent increases. She expressed dissatisfaction with the board’s response, feeling that their assurances were inadequate. Gorman also pointed to maintenance issues at her mother’s property, claiming that despite some tree removals, upkeep had not improved under new management. A management representative responded by acknowledging some efforts but noted constraints on maintenance capabilities in wooded areas.

The council’s response included a reminder of a new New Jersey law limiting rent increases to 3.5% per year starting next year, a measure met with skepticism by some attendees. Lori Greenberg, speaking again, requested clarity on potential changes to rent ordinances, asking the council to communicate any amendments in advance to help park owners comply with local regulations.

The meeting also addressed several resolutions concerning rent and tax changes in other mobile home parks. Resolution 2025-2230 was passed, approving a 2.9% CPI increase for First Street LLC tenants. Bay Lake Park’s application for a rent decrease based on real estate taxes was also approved, resulting in a monthly per unit increase of $183 per lot. Shady Lake Park received approval for a capital improvement increase, costing $17,500 in total, leading to a $156.09 monthly increase per lot.

Additionally, the council reviewed and approved several CPI increase applications. GM Prospect Point received approval for a 4.4% increase, including a base CPI and additional heat cost, affecting leases from October 31, 2025, to March 31, 2026. Southwind Village was granted a maximum CPI increase of 2.95% and a real estate tax pass-through increase of $3.58 per unit. Lastly, the Oak Tree CPI increase application was approved, with council members clarifying that the increase would span a full year, avoiding double increases.