The nearly $223.3 million spending plan is down 2.8 percent overall compared to the 2025 budget.
The Cape May County Board of Commissioners adopted the 2026 county budget following a public hearing Tuesday.
The nearly $223.3 million spending plan represents a decrease of approximately $6.49 million, or 2.8 percent, compared to the 2025 budget.
“The spending plan reflects the county’s continued commitment to controlling costs while maintaining the high level of services county residents deserve,” according to a county news release.
The budget was formally introduced on March 10, followed by a public hearing and final adoption by the commissioners on Tuesday.
“This budget reflects the values of our board and our county. We will always prioritize fiscal discipline, transparency, and a commitment to spend taxpayer dollars wisely,” Commission Director Leonard Desiderio said in the release.
“We reduced overall spending, lowered the tax rate, and remained well under the state’s cap. All accomplished as we continue to invest in the services and infrastructure that make Cape May County such a special place to live, work, and raise a family,” Desiderio added
A central highlight of the budget is the reduction in the county tax rate. While the total tax levy increases modestly to $167.86 million – an increase of approximately $3.29 million over 2025 – that increase is offset by significant growth in the county’s ratable base. As a result, the tax rate itself declines year-over-year, providing relief to property taxpayers.
County officials noted that continued growth in property values and sustainable development across Cape May County has helped to distribute the tax burden more broadly, allowing the county to generate needed revenue while reducing the impact on individual homeowners.
The budget total also comes in well below the state’s allowable tax levy cap. The county is approximately $1.93 million under the maximum permitted levy, “demonstrating a conservative and disciplined financial approach that protects taxpayers while preserving flexibility for future budgets,” the release stated.
The spending plan continues to prioritize core government responsibilities, including public safety, public health, human services, and support for educational institutions.
Substantial funding for the county’s vocational and special services school districts, as well as social service programs, ensures that Cape May County meets its educational obligations while continuing to properly serve its most vulnerable residents, the release said.
The budget also reflects the county’s use of surplus funding to stabilize its finances. It includes $24 million in surplus funding, an increase from $21 million in 2025, helping to offset expenditures and limit the need for additional taxation.
County officials said that maintaining a strong surplus position is essential to long-term fiscal health and economic strength.
