Berkeley Heights Council adopts amended 2026 municipal budget after public hearing

The Berkeley Heights Township Council approved Resolution 2026-176 adopting the amended 2026 municipal budget after a public hearing in which residents asked for clarification of budget totals and revenue sources.

A resident attending the hearing asked whether a figure he had found — $126.04 million — represented the township’s budget alone. Staff and council members clarified that the larger number is an estimate that includes the municipal portion plus amounts shown for the local school district and county obligations; they said the township functions in some line‑item capacities as a clearinghouse and that the municipal tax rate calculation uses the municipal portion, not the combined estimate.

Members of the public also asked about specific revenue sources listed in the budget, including cell‑tower rental income and rental property near the sewer plant; staff identified several township rental sources but said the substantial portion of revenue is elsewhere and that the budget document provides more detailed line‑item breakdowns. Council staff noted that the user‑friendly budget view compresses multiple departmental items under 'other expenses' and that the official budget packet contains the required detail.

After concluding the public comment period, the council closed the hearing and adopted the amended budget by roll call. The clerk recorded affirmative votes from Mr. Foster, Mrs. Ellis, Mr. Machado, Mr. Maderos, Mr. Moran and Mrs. Poke.

The council thanked staff for completing and publishing the amended document and noted that greater detail is available in the budget materials for residents seeking itemized explanations.