Tax Increase Approved In Bridgewater 2024 Municipal Budget

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A tax increase was approved as part of Bridgewater's recently adopted municipal budget for 2024.

The proposed budget of $50,553,644.98 and includes $38,829,515.99 to be raised through property taxes.

An average home in Bridgewater is valued at $564,317. Under the new budget, a home valued at $600,000 will pay $1,459.47. This is an increase of $55.47 from $1,404 in 2023.

The tax rate will increase by 0.009 percent to .243 per $1,000.

"We think the budget meets the service needs of the community and does it a financially responsible manner," said Mayor Matthew Moench at the meeting.

The budget was approved with a 4 to 1 vote- with Councilman Filipe Pedroso voting against it on Thursday night.

"I will be voting no on the budget. I believe the amount to be raised by taxation this year is very high. I think it would be prudent for this governing body to perhaps make cuts would be appropriate. Without any cuts in the department or budgetary items, I will not support it," said Pedroso.

Councilman Michael Kirsh said this year's budget was "difficult."

"We are all living in a hyperinflationary time," said Kirsh.

"In my mind, there is no question. These are difficult budgetary times they are difficult times around each and every kitchen table. Difficult times at this dais. But I do firmly believe that we have constructed and are now in the process of taking action on a fiscally responsible budget that will provide for our present and our future," continued Kirsh.

Council President Timothy Ring noted the tax increase to residents.

"It’s not something I take lightly. It impacts me just as well," said Ring. "It was a challenging budget."

Resident Cathy Franco criticized the budget at the public hearing.

"I think you need to tighten your belts, you need to stop cutting public works and increasing administration costs with the office of constituent relations," said Franco.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.