(WHITE TWP., NJ – March 26, 2025) – A spending plan for 2025 that decreases the County Equalized Tax Rate for a third consecutive year and will result in being debt-free this summer won approval from the Warren County Board of County Commissioners.

The Warren County budget for this year totals $116,684,465 and requires a tax levy of $79.5 million, the same amount collected from taxpayers last year.

The Commissioners also approved a $14.3 million capital spending plan that is fully funded and does not require any debt financing.

“As in the previous year, inflationary costs have put pressure on our county budget, but another year of responsible fiscal management has helped us keep the county tax levy flat,” Commissioner Director Jason J. Sarnoski said. “Combine this with an increase in the Warren County ratable base, and the equalized tax rate will drop 3.26 cents from 54.71 cents to 51.45 cents. This means that the average homeowner will see a decrease in their county tax,” Sarnoski said.

“Even with conservative budgeting practices, the county is able to expand and improve the services we provide,” Sarnoski continued. “We will fully fund our annual road and bridge improvements, building improvements, and all our heavy equipment and vehicle purchases while maintaining our ‘Pay as We Go’ philosophy.”

Sarnoski noted the County has been reducing its debt since the county leaders in 2013 implemented a requirement that all bonding must be approved by voters, adding that he was proud to announce that in July of this year, the county will make its final debt payment and be officially debt-free.

“That is not something that most counties can say,” Commissioner Lori Ciesla noted, explaining that as Warren’s leaders adhere to a fiscal philosophy that avoids incurring debt, “This county puts money aside for the things we need.”

The Commissioners and prior boards have made sure every penny from the taxpayers is absolutely necessary, Ciesla said, adding, “This is not our money, this is your money, we’re trying to make your life here in the county the best it can be.”

“That’s not just good policy – that’s the result of years of disciplined leadership,” said Commissioner James R. Kern III, praising a budget that reflects “fiscal responsibility, strategic investment, and a long-term vision for our residents.” He credited Commissioner Director Sarnoski, the longest-tenured member of the board, as a driving force behind that discipline. “His steady leadership helped lay the groundwork for our debt-free status,” Kern said, highlighting Sarnoski’s role in major decisions like selling Warren Haven, transitioning to a self-insurance model, and championing voter-approved bonding. “These weren’t easy choices, but they were the right ones for Warren County’s long-term fiscal health,” he said.

Kern added, “This budget also reinforces our commitment to preserving the rural character and natural beauty of Warren County. With a strong Open Space Fund and a steady levy, we’re continuing to protect farmland and open land across the county – stopping that land from being acquired for adverse development. It’s about protecting our way of life and ensuring future generations inherit a county that still looks and feels like home.”

Meanwhile, the County is making meaningful investments in infrastructure and public services, Kern said, adding, “From roads and bridges to our Vo-Tech school and courthouse, more than $14 million in capital projects will be fully funded without borrowing a dime. We’re also opening the newly rebuilt Catherine Dickson Hoffman Library this spring, and we continue to invest in emergency services, education, and public facilities—all while holding the line on taxes.”

Sarnoski and Kern both noted that Warren County is celebrating the bicentennial of its founding in 1825. “As we mark Warren County’s 200th anniversary, this budget honors our legacy of strong, prudent governance. It ensures that Warren County remains an affordable, safe, and thriving place to live—today and for years to come,” Kern said.

“This year we will celebrate Warren County's 200th anniversary, and as I reflect on all we have achieved I want to recognize that it would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our County department heads, employees, volunteers, and appointed and elected County officials throughout our history. They are the reason why we are able to afford to live in a beautiful, safe, and healthy county,” Sarnoski remarked.

Warren County Chief Financial Officer Kim Francisco, second from left, reviews the county's 2025 budget during a public hearing prior to the vote by Commissioners James R. Kern III, Director Jason J. Sarnoski, and Lori Ciesla.