GOP cries foul over aid to select cities

TRENTON — New Jersey lawmakers have agreed to transfer $44 million into a special account for distressed cities, despite objections from Republicans, including incoming Gov. Chris Christie. The transfer paves the way for the Local Finance Board to distribute the money — along with $72 million already on hand — to five cities that requested special help. The Local Finance Board was scheduled to meet Wednesday. Camden would get $67 million in aid, with $27 million for Paterson, $14 million for Jersey City, $11.3 million for Union City and $2.25 million for Bridgeton. Christie, who takes office Jan. 19, has accused Gov. Jon Corzine of spending money the state doesn’t have on his way out the door. Christie says cities need to learn to budget responsibly.