Borough’s many gains still come with a loss

Helmetta officials have made a move that will bring a wide range of unprecedented and permanent changes to their town.

The plans for the snuff mill site now being set in motion will see the buildings that were tied to the founding of the community torn down to make way for a mixed-use development largely comprised of age-restricted condos and townhomes.

While there are undoubtedly many positive aspects related to this latest redevelopment proposal, the loss of the town’s centerpiece, the former Helme Tobacco Co. property, will bring a sadness and sense of loss to those who have an appreciation for the history of this town. However, there are many who realize that these buildings, largely unused for the past decade, will have to be razed in order to bring about the type of redevelopment that will be most beneficial to current and future residents.

And benefits there are. Perhaps first and foremost, the Kaplan Cos. development as a whole is expected to yield property tax revenue for the town, school district and county in the realm of $1.5 million per year. To put that in perspective, the borough’s entire school budget carries a tax levy of $2.5 million, while the amount raised in taxes for the municipal budget is $960,000 each year. Borough residents have for years been victims of high and dramatically fluctuating property tax bills; this development will bring great savings to all property owners.

And the plan will bring other exciting possibilities for all residents in the form of a community center, open space and athletic facilities, as well as new retail operations. Another quality of the proposal is underground parking for those who live in the new housing.

It’s all part of an effort that Mayor Nancy Martin has steered since taking office last year. The Martin team scrapped a previous administration’s redevelopment plan last fall and began the process again. Her work deserves praise for accomplishing numerous goals and for not giving in to developers’ demands.

The steps being taken will usher in a landmark period of change for the town, albeit one that is bittersweet for its residents.