Dear Toms River Community,

I am writing to urge you to support the dedicated volunteer firefighters of Toms River Fire District #2 by voting YES on the 2025 budget. Our firefighters from Pleasant Plains and Silverton put their lives on the line every day to protect our families, homes, and businesses. This budget ensures they have the necessary resources to continue their life-saving work.

In 2024 alone, our firefighters responded to 1,339 emergency calls—886 in Pleasant Plains and 494 in Silverton—providing critical assistance when our community needed them most. Beyond emergency response, they actively engage in fire prevention education and participate in township events, including National Night Out, downtown activities, milestone resident celebrations, Biyur Chometz, and Lag B’Omer fires.

Why Your Support Matters
The proposed 2025 budget reflects fiscal responsibility while addressing the district’s essential needs:

✅ Equipping Firefighters: Outfitting a single firefighter now costs $6,331 due to rising equipment expenses—an investment in their safety and effectiveness.

✅ Replacing Aging Equipment: Key upgrades, including the ladder truck and rescue boat, will ensure firefighters have the tools they need to respond quickly and efficiently.

✅ Prudent Financial Management: Despite increased costs in equipment, healthcare, and insurance, the fire district has reduced its use of restricted fund balances by $120,000 and continues to operate debt-free.

✅ Lower Overall Budget: The 2025 budget has decreased by $30,996.97 compared to last year, demonstrating careful financial stewardship while keeping our community safe.

Your Vote Counts
Supporting this budget is an investment in Toms River’s safety and future. The average homeowner will see only a small increase in fire tax—just $265 annually for a $500,000 home—a reasonable contribution to ensuring our firefighters have the resources they need.

I encourage you to make your voice heard by voting YES on all questions in favor of this crucial budget.

📅 Election Details:
🗳 Date: February 15th (Polls open until 9 PM)
📍 Polling Locations:

Pleasant Plains Firehouse (40 Clayton Ave)
Silverton Firehouse (15 Kettle Creek Road)
For those voting by mail, be sure to return your ballot on time to ensure your vote is counted.

Let’s show our brave volunteer firefighters that we stand behind them—just as they stand ready to protect us.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Booky Kaluszyner