List of municipalities in New Jersey

New Jersey in United States

List of Municipalities in New Jersey refers to the various municipalities that make up the state of New Jersey, United States. New Jersey is unique in its municipal organization, characterized by a strong tradition of local governance, with each municipality having a significant degree of autonomy. The state is divided into several types of municipalities: boroughs, cities, towns, villages, and townships, each with its own form of government and administrative structures as defined by New Jersey state law.

Overview

New Jersey's local government system is rooted in the state's colonial history, which has led to a large number of small municipalities. As of the latest count, there are 565 municipalities in New Jersey. This fragmentation is often cited for leading to a high level of property taxes, as each municipality maintains its own set of services, including police departments, fire departments, and public schools.

Types of Municipalities

• Boroughs: Boroughs are one of the most common types of municipalities in New Jersey. They are typically governed by a mayor and a borough council.
• Cities: Cities in New Jersey can vary significantly in size and population. They usually have a more complex administrative structure, often including a mayor and a city council.
• Towns: The term "town" is used specifically in New Jersey to refer to a particular form of municipal government. Unlike the general use of the term, in New Jersey, it has a legal definition and a specific form of governance.
• Villages: Villages in New Jersey are less common and are characterized by their small size and community-oriented governance.
• Townships: Townships are a widespread form of government in New Jersey, covering large areas of the state. They are typically governed by a township committee.

Notable Municipalities

Some of the most notable municipalities in New Jersey include:

• Newark: The largest city in New Jersey and a major economic hub.
• Jersey City: Known for its significant role in finance and commerce, as well as its proximity to New York City.
• Paterson: Famous for its historical significance in the industrial revolution.
• Elizabeth: A key port city and the county seat of Union County.
• Trenton: The capital city of New Jersey, with a rich historical background.

Governance

Each municipality in New Jersey is granted a considerable amount of home rule. This allows local governments to pass ordinances and resolutions within the bounds of the state constitution and laws. The form of government varies significantly from one municipality to another, with some opting for a strong mayor-council system, while others have a council-manager system.

Challenges and Criticisms

The large number of municipalities in New Jersey has led to criticisms regarding efficiency and the high cost of governance. The state has some of the highest property taxes in the United States, partly attributed to the need to fund local services across the numerous municipalities. There have been calls for consolidation and shared services to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

See Also

• Government of New Jersey
• List of counties in New Jersey
• Local government in the United States