The Ocean County Board of Commissioners unveiled its 2025 budget this week, outlining a spending plan that balances the county’s rapid population growth with a stable property tax rate.
The $608.7 million budget, a $43.7 million increase from 2024, reflects the county’s expanding needs as its population surpasses 650,000 residents. According to Deputy Director Frank Sadeghi, Ocean County is experiencing one of the fastest growth rates in the state, and officials predict it could reach one million residents in the foreseeable future.
“Growth is not a bad thing,” Sadeghi said. “It brings economic benefits and greater opportunities. We need to increase services and expand facilities where we can.”
Despite the budget increase, property tax rates will remain at 28.2 cents per $100 of assessed value, thanks in part to a strong $176.5 billion ratable base, noted Board Director John P. Kelly.
A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for April 16 at 4 p.m. at the Ocean County Administration Building. The full budget document is available online at www.co.ocean.nj.us.
A record $93.6 million will be allocated for capital improvements, a $22.3 million increase from 2024. Projects include:
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Education & Workforce Development
- $25.2 million for the MATES Academy expansion in Stafford Township, enhancing STEM opportunities for students.
- $13 million in renovations for two vo-tech centers, ensuring career readiness for local students.
- $6 million for Ocean County College facility upgrades, including new dental hygiene, radiography, and veterinary labs.
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Infrastructure & Transportation
- $11 million for Cross Street improvements in Lakewood, addressing traffic congestion.
- $12 million for the Route 539 overpass in Plumsted Township, improving safety near Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
- $1.2 million for new hangars at the Ocean County Airport in Berkeley Township, strengthening its role as a commercial hub.
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Public Services & Safety
- $9.5 million for senior programs, including home-delivered meals and outreach, plus an additional $6 million in grants.
- $27.7 million for road safety improvements.
- $19.1 million for social services programs.
- $9.6 million for parks and recreation.
- $4.1 million for transportation services like Ocean Ride, plus an additional $3.1 million in grants.
- $93.6 million for law enforcement and public safety.
“Ocean County’s beauty—its beaches, farms, and downtowns—depends on public safety,” Sadeghi emphasized. “That’s why we continue to fully fund law enforcement and emergency services.”
The 2025 budget maintains Ocean County’s AAA bond rating, a critical factor in securing low-interest rates for capital projects. Commissioner Kelly stressed that the county remains within the state-mandated 2% cap, reflecting a disciplined and conservative fiscal approach.
“Every year, we work to keep Ocean County affordable while investing in our future,” Kelly said. “This budget ensures long-term stability and continued high-quality services.”
Commissioner Virginia E. Haines commended Chief Financial Officer Julie Tarrant and county staff for their work in crafting a budget that expands essential services while staying within fiscal limits.
“This budget enables us to continue providing critical services for our residents while remaining financially responsible,” Haines said.
Who is this commissioner kidding regarding growth being a good thing? It sure as heck isn’t in Lakewood and in other communities which have limited potential for growth despite state affordable housing mandates. Lakewood is busting at the seems, traffic congestion is a serious problem, and it is turning into a pig sty by virtue of the amount of garbage being produced that can’t be readily dealt with. Idiot rabbis and builders keep pushing for more construction which increases more congestion, garbage and aggravation. Where is the hell is the common sense?