The Jackson Township Council has introduced an ordinance aimed at strengthening enforcement against property owners who fall behind on their tax obligations.

Ordinance 2026-22, introduced last week, would allow the Township to use local licenses and permits as a tool to encourage payment of overdue property taxes.

Township officials tell TLS the measure is part of Mayor Jennifer Kuhn’s ongoing effort to address tax delinquencies and ensure that all property owners contribute their fair share.

“For too long, too many property owners have ignored or delayed paying the township taxes, forcing the rest of our taxpayers to carry the burden. That stops now,” Mayor Kuhn said.

Under the proposed ordinance, property owners with outstanding tax balances could be denied the issuance or renewal of certain local licenses and permits associated with the property. In addition, if taxes remain unpaid for three consecutive quarters, the Township could suspend or revoke existing licenses or permits.

The ordinance includes due process protections. Before any action is taken, the Township would be required to notify the property owner and provide a 30-day period to either pay the outstanding taxes or challenge the claim. Property owners would also have the right to a hearing before the Township Council prior to a final determination.

Once the delinquent taxes are paid, any suspended or revoked license or permit could be reinstated.

One example cited by Township officials involves rental properties or businesses operating within Jackson Township. If the owner falls significantly behind on property taxes, the Township could deny renewal of permits or licenses necessary for continued operation until the tax debt is resolved.

Officials emphasized that the ordinance does not create any new taxes. Instead, it provides the Township with an additional enforcement mechanism by linking compliance with existing property tax obligations to the issuance and maintenance of local licenses and permits.