Bedminster committee adopts 2025 municipal budget with 1.95% tax increase

The Bedminster Township Committee adopted the 2025 municipal budget at its May 5 meeting, approving Resolution 2025083 by roll call vote.

Andrew, the township finance staff member, told the committee the budget completed the required state review with minimal comments and is ready for adoption. "We came in below both the appropriation cap by about $2,200 and below the tax levy cap by about $98,000," he said, and reported the final package represents a 1.95% increase for individual taxpayers.

Committee members praised staff work on tightening the surplus and managing expenditures. Mayor Jacobs and other members noted the budget includes planned capital funding and debt‑reduction measures while setting aside money for upcoming equipment needs. "This budget sets money up for the purchase of the tanker for Far Hills Bedminster and sets us up well for the other equipment that will be coming down the pike in the next three‑four years," Andrew said.

Officials said the township maintains two volunteer fire departments (Pottersville and Far Hills/Bedminster) and that vehicle replacement cycles and aging equipment drove part of the capital planning included in the budget.

The committee moved and adopted the resolution (2025083) by roll call: Mr. Stevenson, Mr. Hickey, Miss Fernando and Mayor Jacobs recorded affirmative votes. The committee also approved routine minutes and consent items earlier in the meeting by roll call.

The committee adjourned to executive session after adopting the budget; it announced no formal action would be taken following that session.