Pinelands Commission adopts FY2026 budget; commissioners approve multiple development applications

The Pinelands Commission on Sept. 12 adopted its FY2026 budgets and approved a slate of applications and resolutions, with commissioners citing tight state appropriations and rising health‑benefit costs as fiscal pressures.

Jessica Litch, the commission’s business services manager, summarized four budgets: an operating budget of $7,377,086; the Pinelands Conservation Fund at $3,802,337; Fenwick Manor preservation funds at $1,264,000; and the Katie Fund at $4,550. Litch said salaries and fringe benefits make up the bulk of the operating budget and noted health benefit supplements fall short of projected costs.

Commissioners discussed revenue sources—state appropriation, application fees, special purpose funds and interest—and the commission’s continued reliance on conservation fund awards for land acquisition and targeted programs. Chair and staff noted the commission leases its facilities from the state and is responsible for maintenance and other operating costs.

During the same meeting, the commission approved several development items that had been presented earlier in the agenda: two public development applications (Bastrop Township restroom replacement and May Harbor Township’s Buddy Field expansion), CHU public development applications, and a resolution expressing appreciation for former commissioner John W. Holroyd Jr. The meeting included a public comment period during which community members urged the commission not to approve artificial turf installations in the Pine Barrens, citing health and environmental concerns.

The commission voted to adopt the FY2026 budget by voice vote following the presentation and committee review. Staff said the commission will continue to monitor state funding and health‑benefit developments and to prioritize core regulatory work alongside conservation projects.