North Ward Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr. announced today that Newark residents with delinquent property taxes as well as water and sewer charges can take advantage of a short-term tax amnesty that was approved today by the City Council.

The amnesty program, which runs from Aug. 10 through Sept. 12, 2016, waives any accrued interest and penalties on delinquent property taxes and water and sewer bills. The city normally charges 8 percent interest on the first $1,500 and 18 percent on the remaining balance.

"This program will benefit city residents by providing an opportunity to clear their debt without facing penalities and interst," Ramos said. "At the same time, it will allow the city to incrase its tax collection rate, which will help avoid a tax increase in 2016."

Ramos has previously sponsored legislation in the City Council offering a tax amnesty.

The amnesty program does not apply to third party/outside lienholder purchased or assigned, accounts in bankruptcy or any other litigation pending or settled, tax appeals (pending stipulations) and pending settlements of any kind regarding property taxes. The amnesty program applies to municipal tax liens only for the period August 10, 2016 September 12, 2016.

Payments must be for the entire delinquent amount, and must be paid by certified bank funds, bank or postal money
orders, credit or debit cards only at the time of payment. No personal or business checks will be accepted and no partial payments can or will receive benefit of this program.