Atlantic County, NJ, Hits Payday with State of New Jersey

In this exclusive first report, and, as a follow-up to our breaking news report from last week (see below), Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson has announced a long-awaited … and, hard-fought settlement with the state of New Jersey.

The settlement represents a $ 15 million payment for the taxpayers of Atlantic County.

It also represents a second successful bite at the apple for Levinson … as Levinson successfully re-opened PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) litigation against the state of New Jersey.

Levinson took a gamble with about $ 1.3 million in taxpayer-paid attorney fees … which has paid off big time in the end … a net $ 13.7 million win for the taxpayers of Atlantic County.

According to Levinson, an agreement was reached and finalized on April 2, 2025. He was asked to hold the information until all affected parties could be notified.

With the additional $ 15 million settlement, Levinson estimates the county will have received close to $59 million by challenging both 2016 PILOT and the 2021 amendments.

The outside legal counsel (Ronald Riccio) of McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, that handled the case has showered Levinson with praise for achieving the settlement agreement.

"In all the cases which I have been involved, I have never witnessed such personal tenacity, determination and courage as that displayed by County Executive Dennis Levinson, He deserves much credit for this positive outcome,” said Rocco.

“Throughout my career, I have tried to do the very best for the people I represent," said Levinson. This case tested my resolve, but it was too important to simply dismiss as some had suggested. Effective leaders need to remain steadfast in the face of challenges,” said Levinson.

Levinson singled out Atlantic County Commissioner Ernest Coursey … going as far as to say that the settlement would not have happened without Coursey.

Coursey brought New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Jacqueline Suarez to the table. This was the genesis of the settlement discussions (with Levinson) that were brought to fruition.

This also demonstrates that New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy is an honorable man to negotiate with. He always keeps his word when he gives it.

SOURCE: Atlantic County, New Jersey government sources.