The Morris County Board of County Commissioners has introduced the 2025 budget, maintaining a steady tax rate for the sixth consecutive year. The $376.6 million spending plan emphasizes public safety, human services, and infrastructure development.
Commissioner Deborah Smith, chair of the Commissioners’ Budget Committee, stated: “While we continue to deal with cost increases beyond the county’s control, we have again minimized the impact on our budget, and there will be no county tax rate increase for a sixth consecutive year. Over the past 5 years, the average annual increase in inflation was 4.24 percent, yet we have kept our average annual budget growth to 2.89 percent.”
The budget was presented by Commissioners Doug Cabana and John Krickus alongside Smith. They highlighted its fiscal responsibility and compliance with state spending caps.
Investments in law enforcement include new equipment and technology for digital evidence processing. Commissioner Cabana noted: “We are broadening our commitment to law and public safety… We also will continue funding for our Basic Life Support and Emergency Medical Service Units…and we have increased staff recruitment at our Communications Center.”
Support for vulnerable residents is reinforced with continued emergency assistance funding at $300,000 and an additional $150,000 dedicated to homelessness prevention. The budget also aims to expedite food assistance applications and caregiving services.
Education receives significant attention as well. Commissioner Krickus said: “In 2025, our budget will continue our commitment to the County College of Morris and the Morris County Vocational School District… We are increasing our allocation to CCM by $250,000… We also are increasing our allocation to Vo-tech by $175,000.”
The capital spending plan allocates nearly $36 million for road resurfacing, intersection improvements, bridge replacements, and facility maintenance.
Final adoption of the 2025 budget is scheduled for March 26 during a public meeting.
