With operating costs for the Central Municipal Court of Atlantic County expected to be 45% less in 2025, County Executive Dennis Levinson believes non-member towns may have a difficult time arguing against joining the court.
“I tell taxpayers, if your town isn’t in the court, you are paying substantially more,” said Levinson. “The idea for this court was to realize savings for our towns and our taxpayers that live in one of the highest-taxed states in the country. And it’s working.”
“The only argument towns have to stay out of the court is home rule, whereby they can appoint their own judges, prosecutors and court administrative staff,” he added.
Ten towns currently participate in the Central Municipal Court, the first of its kind in the state. They include: Corbin City, Egg Harbor Township, Estell Manor, Galloway Township, Hamilton Township, Linwood, Northfield, Port Republic, Ventnor and Weymouth Township.
The Central Municipal Court of Atlantic County opened in January 2022. Prior to that, the average annual cost of operating municipal courts in these 10 towns was slightly more than $2.9 million. The proposed operating cost for the Central Municipal Court in 2025 is slightly less than $1.7 million, a savings of $1.2 million.
Levinson noted additional savings with a reduction in the rate of recidivism for defendants in the Central Municipal Court who are referred by the judges to social service supports to address issues such as domestic violence, substance abuse and mental health.
Jewish Family Service partners with the Central Municipal Court to provide those interventions.
“Secondary savings for our taxpayers result from individuals being treated for problems before they escalate and reach the Superior Court,” he stated. “Added to the actual cost savings is the priceless benefit of greater safety and protection among our citizens.”
“We are all aware of someone who has struggled to get help for themselves or a loved one suffering from substance abuse, homelessness or mental health issues. The Central Municipal Court of Atlantic County is able to provide immediate social service interventions in the initial stages of the criminal justice system, unlike any other court in New Jersey,” said Levinson. “This innovative effort is having a positive impact on the lives of our residents in addition to providing cost savings to our towns and their taxpayers. We are extremely pleased with the results.”
