Bergen County Unveils $720M Budget Amid End of Federal COVID Funds: What Taxpayers Should Know

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Hackensack NJ, Bergen County has introduced its first annual budget following the expiration of American Rescue Plan (ARP) federal funding, bringing a modest increase to local property taxes for 2025. Homeowners with properties assessed at the county average of $530,000 will see a $69 increase on the county portion of their tax bill.

📈 Key Budget Highlights

• 2025 Bergen County Budget: $720 million

• Increase from 2024: $8 million

• County Tax Levy Increase: 4.93%

• Average Monthly Impact: $5.81 for homes assessed at $530,000

• County Share of Tax Bill: Approx. 11.5%

• Budget Gap from Lost ARP Funds: $39.6 million

💡 What’s Behind the Tax Increase?

This year’s budget reflects the challenges posed by the end of ARP federal aid, which previously contributed significantly to county revenues. In his State of the County address, County Executive James Tedesco had already cautioned residents that the 2025 budget cycle would be difficult without those emergency funds.

Tedesco noted that 2.6% of the 4.93% tax increase can be attributed directly to the loss of federal aid.

🛠️ Services to Remain Fully Funded

Despite the tighter fiscal environment, Tedesco emphasized that Bergen County will continue to provide full funding for essential services, including:

• Public Safety & Law Enforcement

• County Education Programs

• Infrastructure Improvements

• Parks and Recreation

• Health and Human Services

“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 presentation. “It ensures that county government can continue to deliver critical services our residents rely on every day.”

🗓️ Public Participation & Next Steps

The budget was introduced on April 16 during the Bergen County Board of Commissioners meeting. The public is encouraged to participate in public comment sessions, with budget adoption expected in May.

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