file photo of Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack NJ, Bergen County residents will see a modest increase in their property taxes as the county rolls out its first budget following the expiration of federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds. The new fiscal year comes with challenges—but also stability, according to local officials.
📈 Property Tax Increase: What It Means for Homeowners
For the average Bergen County home assessed at $530,000, the new budget brings a $69 increase in the county portion of the property tax bill. That breaks down to roughly $5.81 per month.
Keep in mind: property tax bills in New Jersey are divided into three parts — municipal, school, and county taxes. Bergen County’s share represents approximately 11.5% of the average homeowner’s bill.
The 2025 tax levy for Bergen County is up by 4.93% compared to last year.
💸 Budget Breakdown: Filling the Gap Left by Federal Relief Funds
The increase comes as the county absorbs a $39.6 million shortfall due to the end of ARP funding. This gap alone accounts for about 2.6% of the 4.93% total tax levy hike.
Bergen County’s overall 2025 operating budget stands at $720 million, a nearly $8 million increase over the previous year.
🏛 County Executive: Budget Ensures Continued Services
County Executive James Tedesco addressed the fiscal challenges earlier this year in his State of the County address, emphasizing the county’s commitment to maintaining core services despite the funding loss.
“In the face of heightened volatility coming out of Washington, this fiscally responsible and prudent budget reflects Bergen County’s continued record of sound financial management,” Tedesco said during an April 2 budget presentation.
He added that the budget guarantees ongoing funding for public safety, education, infrastructure, parks, and health and human services — all crucial services that residents depend on.
🗓 What’s Next: Budget Timeline and Public Input
-
April 16: The Bergen County Board of Commissioners will officially introduce the 2025 budget at their upcoming meeting.
-
May 2025: Public comments will be collected, followed by final budget adoption later in the month.
🔍 Key Takeaways
-
Average homeowner impact: $69/year increase on the county portion
-
2025 tax levy increase: 4.93%
-
ARP shortfall: $39.6 million
-
Total budget: $720 million
-
Services maintained: Public safety, health, infrastructure, education, and more
📣 Stay Updated on Bergen County Taxes and Budget News
Subscribe to our blog or follow us on social media to stay informed about property tax updates, local budget hearings, and how Bergen County is navigating post-pandemic funding challenges. Subscribe Today to #theRidgewoodblog eBlast Stay Informed on #Local, #Events, and #News, http://eepurl.com/bgt6T #subscribe, #localnews, #BergenCounty, #Newjersey
Hey it’s Bergen county, we have to keep up on maintenance.
If by maintenance you mean, among other things, period botox treatment for the wives of your elected officials, yes.
Bergen County has a problem with depressed manholes everywhere. Jim, can you do your job, get off your fat ass, and fix them? Perhaps start with a few on the Franklin Turnpike? From Mahwah to HoHoKus, they are everywhere.
Bring in Musk! He’ll straighten out these a-holes!