Understanding the Two Ballot Questions for Hanover Township Fire District 3

Two crucial questions will be on the ballot regarding Hanover Township Fire District 3 on Election Day, February 21.

The questions are for the proposed budget and referendum for 2026. If both are approved, the tax impact will cost the average assessed household no more than $20 per month. Voters can view their exact amount using the tax calculator on the Fire District’s website.

Voters have until seven days before the election to request a mail-in ballot. An application can be found on the Fire District’s website. Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by February 21 to count. Voters can also vote in person on February 21, from 2 to 9 p.m., at Cedar Knolls Fire Department, 82 Ridgedale Ave., Cedar Knolls.

There will be a Special Meeting to answer any questions about the budget on Tuesday, February 17, at 7:00 p.m. at the Cedar Knolls Fire Department.

How will the questions appear on the ballot, and what do they mean?

The first question on the ballot is about the proposed $3,018,427 million to be raised by taxation. This includes the $527,193 that is being requested in the referendum in question two. Question two asks for the approval to keep the $527,193 in the budget, exceeding the 2% cap, which is vital for operational and staffing needs.

“It’s important for voters to understand that question two does not ask for any additional funding beyond what is already included in question one,” said Michael Dugan Sr, Treasurer. “This is why it’s essential to have voter approval for the budget – question one – and the referendum – question two.”

Question one states, “Resolved, That the Assessors of the Township of Hanover shall be authorized to raise $3,018,427.00 to be expended within said district for the ensuing year for the uses and purposes of Fire District No. 3 and the carrying out of the powers by the statues made and provided.”

The second question states, “Shall the Board of Commissioners of Fire District Number No.3 in the Township of Hanover be authorized to increase the 2025 amount to be raised by taxation in the Fire District annual budget, by 17.5% or $527,193 as provided by N.J.S.A.40 A:4-45.45, notwithstanding that its amount to be raised by taxation will exceed the two percent (2.0%)increase limitation.

What will “yes” votes support?

The proposed budget and referendum will support the following activities:

• Add two new EMT positions to keep up with the demand of calls (2,769 EMT calls in 2025)
• Keep multiple ambulances maintained and in service. Staffing an extra ambulance reduces the instances of mutual aid being called. On average, it takes less than seven minutes for our ambulance to arrive. This could jump to 10+ minutes if relying on mutual aid.
• Provide high-quality and efficient service by supporting basic and advanced training, replacing outdated equipment, and Personal Protective Equipment.
• Afford healthcare and pension costs for employees increased by 67% for 2026

Hanover Township Fire District 3 is the fire and EMS provider for the Cedar Knolls section of the township and the EMS provider for the entire township, supporting over 14,000 residents.

“Come out and vote, so our firefighters and EMTs can continue to serve you and your community members,” said Gary Keyser, Chairman.