N.J. lawmakers pass changes to arbitration process for police, firefighters

That means even a significant change in compensation for police and firefighters would have only a modest impact on property-tax bills.

To put it another way, Lavin said, "if you were to lay off every single cop and firefighter in the state of New Jersey, homeowners would receive a rebate of $500 to $1,000."

"I reject out of hand any notion that we are overpaid or a burden on the taxpayers," Lavin said.

Lawmakers said they were optimistic that the changes would both bring relief to taxpayers and protect the rights of police and firefighters.

"This legislation is exactly what New Jersey has needed - reform that is both fair to taxpayers and the courageous police and firefighters who protect public safety," said Assemblyman Louis Greenwald (D., Camden).

Another of Christie's "tool kit" measures to help municipalities control property taxes was approved Monday when both houses of the Legislature passed a bill that would revise civil-service rules.

The legislation would make it easier for towns to fire problem employees and should make it easier for towns to share services.

It would not allow towns to opt out of civil service, however. As a result, Assembly Republican Leader Jon Bramnick said, Christie would not support the bill.