Camden County residents agree to tax increase to reduce sewage spills, preserve nature

Camden County residents this week voted in favor of a small tax increase to help their local government fund major sewer infrastructure and water quality projects. An overwhelming majority of voters approved a referendum to increase the county’s open space tax, a voter-approved property tax, from 2 cents per $100 of assessed value to 3 cents. Officials say that the increase will help Camden County reduce the amount of sewage that spills into waterways during heavy rains. The tax increase, which will raise about $7 million more per year, will also repair broken and leaky sewer lines, reduce contaminated soil in waterways, and increase outdoor recreational opportunities, officials say. “It will also mean advancing some of the plans for capital improvements on our waterways, such as fishing piers and kayak launches, boat launches,” Camden County Commissioner Jeffrey Nash said. “So, it improves the quality of life for residents. It improves our environment, and enhances our property values