Your Tax Dollars at Work

CY2026 Proposed Municipal Budget

Protecting Essential Services. Investing Responsibly. Planning for Perth Amboy's Future.

The City of Perth Amboy Administration presented the proposed Calendar Year 2026 Municipal Budget on July 15, outlining a fiscally responsible plan focused on protecting essential services, strengthening public safety, investing in infrastructure, and continuing the City's long-term progress.

The proposed $102.2 million municipal budget was developed with a focus on balancing today's service needs with the City's long-term financial health. The Administration reviewed departmental spending, prioritized essential services, pursued outside and recurring revenues, and reduced the City's reliance on one-time surplus funding.

Investing in Perth Amboy

The proposed budget continues support for the services and investments residents rely on every day, including:

• Public Safety: Police, Fire, Emergency Management, staffing, equipment, technology, and community safety initiatives
• Infrastructure: Roads, water infrastructure, facilities, and neighborhood improvements
• Quality of Life: Parks, recreation, library, senior services, and community programs
• Technology and Cybersecurity: Modernizing municipal operations and protecting City systems
• Future Growth: Redevelopment, economic development, business investment, and expanding the City's tax base

Strengthening the City's Financial Position

The proposed budget also continues the City's effort to reduce reliance on one-time revenues. Surplus used to support the municipal budget decreases from approximately $10.7 million in 2025 to $6.3 million in 2026, a reduction of approximately $4.3 million.

For the average assessed home, the proposed municipal portion represents an estimated increase of approximately $213 annually, or approximately $17.77 per month.

The municipal portion represents approximately 37% of the projected overall increase in the average property tax bill. The remaining portions are attributable to other taxing entities, including the school district, Middlesex County, library, and County Open Space.