Hunterdon County proposes FY26 budget maintaining tax rate cut, 12-year debt-free streak
HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. — Hunterdon County officials unveiled a proposed $132.4 million budget for fiscal year 2026 that maintains last year’s tax rate cut and extends the county’s 12-year streak of remaining debt-free.
The budget, introduced at the April 21 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners, keeps the county tax rate at $0.306, the same level set after last year’s reduction to 2014 rates. Officials said the plan reflects continued efforts to balance fiscal discipline with investments in infrastructure and community programs.
“This year’s budget reflects our continued commitment to fiscal responsibility and smart investment. It not only preserves last year’s tax rate cut, but also makes meaningful investments in county infrastructure—including fully funding the renovation and expansion of the Hunterdon County Senior Center—while continuing to support our 26 municipalities through additional grant opportunities as part of our ongoing ‘Era of Partnership,’” said Commissioner Director John E. Lanza.
Commissioner Shaun C. Van Doren, a budget co-liaison, said the spending plan was developed through a detailed review of expenses.
“Protecting last year’s tax rate cut is the result of a detailed, line-by-line review of expenses to ensure taxpayer dollars are used wisely. We continue to aggressively pursue grant funding and innovative approaches to service delivery to maximize value for our residents,” Van Doren said.
The proposed budget includes $3.8 million for renovations and expansion of the Hunterdon County Senior Center, partially offset by a $1.5 million federal grant. It also sets aside $500,000 for a new grant program to support local fire and EMS agencies and provides increased funding for the Hunterdon County Vocational School District.
Commissioner Zachary T. Rich, also a budget co-liaison, highlighted workforce development efforts in the plan.
“This year’s budget makes a record investment in career and technical education, including resources to help launch a new, advanced manufacturing program that is critical to our region’s economic competitiveness,” Rich said.
Deputy Director Jeff Kuhl pointed to the county’s “Era of Partnership” initiative, which has provided more than $4 million in grants to municipalities for improvements such as parks, energy efficiency upgrades and public safety equipment.
“These investments help control local property taxes while enhancing the quality of life for our residents,” Kuhl said.
Commissioner Susan J. Soloway praised the budget process and its outcomes.
“Commissioner Van Doren and Commissioner Rich deserve tremendous credit for their work on this budget. For the 12th consecutive year, Hunterdon County remains debt-free while making strategic investments in key facilities like the Senior Center. At a time when affordability is top of mind for our residents, this budget sends a clear message—we are holding the line on taxes and putting taxpayers first. We are delivering results without asking more from our residents, and that is exactly the kind of fiscal discipline they expect and deserve,” Soloway said.
She added, “Hunterdon County continues to serve as a model for what responsible governance and sound fiscal policy should look like.”
Lanza concluded by thanking county staff and emphasizing the focus on affordability.
“I want to thank our County staff and department leaders for their hard work and dedication in putting together this budget. This budget is about respecting our taxpayers and recognizing the real financial pressures they face. We have made it a priority to keep Hunterdon County affordable while still investing in the services and infrastructure that matter most. By holding the line on taxes and maintaining our debt-free status, we are proving that good government can live within its means and still deliver for the people we serve,” he said.
