By Paul Baratelli
The South Jersey Libertarian Party opposes the Borough of Medford Lakes’ proposal to require a “tree inventory inspection” at real estate closings, as well as the recent 3.5-cent municipal tax rate increase and related bond spending.
At the July 8 council meeting, Borough Manager Dr. Robert Burton said the borough is considering requiring photos of the property at closing so officials can later determine whether new owners remove trees and advise on removal practices. The photos and a document listing existing trees would be added to the closing package, with language warning buyers that any changes involving trees, fencing, or similar work require contacting the borough.
Medford Lakes already requires tree removal permits. Creating an official photographic inventory of private trees so the government can more easily monitor and enforce against homeowners is an unnecessary expansion of local power. Residents own their trees. The decision of whether to keep or remove them belongs to the property owner, not borough hall.
The same period saw approval of a budget raising the municipal tax rate by 3.5 cents (about $9 per month for the average assessed home) and a bond ordinance authorizing more than $300,000 in borrowing for various capital items. Higher taxes and more debt compound the problem of growing local control.
Source: Pine Barrens Tribune, July 23, 2026 https://www.pinebarrenstribune.com/articles/featured-stories/medford-lakes-considering-requiring-tree-inventory-inspection-at-real-estate-closings-3-5-cent-tax-rate-hike-300k-bond-okd/
Property rights are not a suggestion. The South Jersey Libertarian Party encourages Medford Lakes residents to speak against the tree inventory requirement at upcoming council meetings.