Candidates Accuse Stack of Dodging Property Taxes; Records Show He Pays

Two Democratic Assembly candidates are calling for an investigation into Union City Mayor and State Senator Brian Stack, alleging he pays “$0” in property taxes on a home they say is worth nearly $1 million. A review of public records shows Stack continues to pay property taxes under a state-approved program used by thousands of New Jersey homeowners.

In an April 21 press release, candidates Tony Hector and Frank Alonso referred to a tax roll code—“15F: Exempt from Taxation”—linked to Stack’s home on 24th Street in Union City.

“The fact that Stack is scamming his own city and paying $0 in property taxes on a home worth almost $1 million is a new low,” said Assembly Candidate Hector and Alonso. “…We are demanding an immediate law enforcement investigation into Stack’s property tax scam.”

Stack, in a letter to residents, said he has paid approximately $62,000 in taxes and related fees since buying the vacant home in 2018. He stated the program he enrolled in is open to any qualifying homeowner and denied receiving any special treatment.

“I have completed all my obligations in accordance with the law. Demonstrating that I have not received any special treatment as the Mayor of Union City,” wrote Mayor Stack. “I am one of the 2,000 current and former property owners who have participated in the tax incentive program since its inception. This application process is transparent and accessible on our City website and through the Tax Assessor’s office.”

The 15F code appears as part of New Jersey’s five-year homeowner abatement program, established under the state’s Five-Year Exemption and Abatement Law. The law allows municipalities to offer tax relief to residents who renovate or improve their homes.

According to the statute, “The municipality may provide that the improvements…shall be exempt from taxation for a period of five years following completion.” The exemption applies to the new construction only; land and any original structures remain fully taxable during the abatement period.

According to 2024 records, Stack’s home is assessed at $691,000, with a total tax bill of $12,770. In 2023, he paid $12,439.

Real estate data services like Redfin estimate the market value of the home to be worth $828,000 – $985,000.

There is no indication in public tax records that Stack’s liability has been eliminated. The “15F” designation represents a legal, temporary adjustment in how improvements are taxed and is used in municipalities across New Jersey.