Ocean County $655.6M 2026 Budget Adoption
Key Questions
How does Ocean County's 2026 budget maintain a flat tax rate while increasing costs to taxpayers?
The budget keeps the tax rate flat at 28.2 cents per $100 of ratables, but a $47 million increase in the tax levy occurs due to growth in ratable values. This results in higher overall payments from property owners despite the unchanged rate.
What are the main areas funded by Ocean County's $655.6 million 2026 budget?
Key allocations support Toms River bridges, the airpark, public safety, education, and open space preservation. These investments address infrastructure and community needs amid ongoing tax scrutiny.
What is the status of Ocean County's reserves with the adoption of the 2026 budget?
The budget adoption leads to a dip in reserves as funds are directed toward critical projects. This occurs while maintaining fiscal balance under public tax concerns.
Flat 28.2 cent rate hides $47M levy hike via ratables; funds TR bridges, airpark, safety, education, open space. Reserves dip amid tax scrutiny.