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Morris County Introduces 2026 Operating Budget
The Morris County Board of County Commissioners tonight introduced their 2026 Budget with no increase in the county tax rate for a seventh consecutive year, while continuing investments in public safety, education and infrastructure.
“This budget again holds the line on the tax rate. Morris County provides among the highest level of services in the state and does it with the second-lowest average county tax in New Jersey,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith, chair of the board’s budget committee, citing 2025 Department of Community Affairs data.
"Also, the year-end fund balance increased by $8 million to $77.4 million, which is important to Morris County maintaining its 50-year record of AAA bond ratings from Moodys and Standard & Poor’s. That rating saves taxpayer dollars on any necessary borrowing,” Commissioner Smith added.
The proposed spending plan was presented to the full board by the budget committee, including Commissioners Douglas R. Cabana and John Krickus.
2026 Budget Highlights:
- $407.3 million, is the total of the introduced budget, but the figure is artificially inflated by $24.3 million in early authorization of grants, bringing the actual spending to $383 million – which can be compared to the 2025 Budget, minus early authorized grants, of $370.6 million. The early authorization of $24. 3 million in grant funds has no impact on the tax levy.
- $86 million invested in public safety, a $3 million increase over 2025 to support law enforcement, emergency medical services backup and enhanced digital evidence capabilities.
- $1.1 million increase to education, including a $930,000 increase to the County College of Morris and a $175,000 increase to the Morris County Vocational School District.
- Nearly $9.4 million to support the Morris County Park Commission, stewards of the largest county park system in New Jersey -- 20,611 acres of parkland, 39 recreational facilities and more than 264 miles of trails, including the newly opened Pompton Valley Rail Trail.
- $40.7 million for Health and Human Services, including sustained funding that has doubled “County Emergency Assistance” to $300,000 and provided $150,000 dedicated to homeless prevention.
- $50 million capital spending plan, includes $37 million of county funding and $13 million in grants, with more than 60 percent directed toward infrastructure investments for roads, bridges, rail, drainage systems and park improvements.
“Public safety has always been a top priority for this Board, and the 2026 budget reflects our ongoing commitment with a $3 million increase in law enforcement funding,” said Commissioner Cabana. “This investment allows us to enhance the Prosecutor's Office technical capabilities through the application of artificial intelligence for processing, storing, and sharing digital evidence—critical tools for modern law enforcement.”
The 2026 Budget also continues investments in the County College of Morris and the Morris County Vocational School District.
“Education also remains a priority in Morris County, and our support for the County College of Morris (CCM) reflects that commitment,” said Commissioner Krickus. “CCM is ranked number one in the state for alumni salaries, as we provide training and careers in health care, advanced manufacturing, technology, business, culinary arts, and so much more.”
The college anticipates opening its Center for Entrepreneurship & Culinary Science this year and, by early 2027, a new Center for Health Professions Building, which is being supported by Morris County with more than $5.5 million in 2025 and 2026 capital funding.
Commissioner Krickus also noted that the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) remains a source of pride, ranking consistently as one of the top-performing high schools in the country.
“In the 2026 budget, our allocation to the district has increased by $175,000, as part of a five-year increase in operating support totaling $575,000, as the MCVSD increased students by over 30 percent with the recently opened Career Training Center,” Commissioner Krickus said.
The commissioners also noted preparation for two major events in 2026, the nation’s 250th Anniversary and the FIFA World Cup, are both expected to bring international attention and visitors to the county.
“These historic events will bring visitors from around the world to our region and provide unique opportunities to showcase Morris County's rich history, vibrant communities, and world-class amenities,” said Commissioner Cabana. “Our budget includes support for activities and initiatives that will highlight Morris County during these celebrations and ensure we're prepared to welcome visitors while serving our residents.”
See the 2026 Capital Spending Plan Introduced in December
County Commissioners will consider the 2026 Operating Budget for final adoption at their March 25, 2026, public meeting. For more information, visit: morriscountynj.gov.
