The Cranford Township Budget Meeting held on February 22, 2025, focused on key financial discussions and proposed adjustments to the township's fees and budget allocations. The meeting began with a review of the current fee structures, which have not been updated in over 20 years. Officials highlighted the need for a comprehensive fee increase across all categories to better align with rising operational costs and to ensure the township remains competitive within Union County.

A proposal for these fee increases is expected to be ready for discussion at the next board meeting in May, allowing for the necessary cycles of township meetings before finalization. The health department, often overlooked, was acknowledged for its critical role in maintaining public health standards, including food safety and environmental health.

The meeting also addressed the anticipated revenues for the upcoming budget year. Officials noted that while some revenue projections were higher than previous years, this was largely due to new ordinances allowing for fee increases. However, they emphasized that the municipal budget does not encompass school or county expenses, which represent a significant portion of the overall tax burden for residents.

Discussions included the operating budget, which is projected to increase by approximately 4%. Officials expressed concerns about tight budgets, particularly regarding salary and wage contracts, which account for a substantial portion of expenses. The meeting concluded with plans to introduce the capital budget by March 25, 2025, with further discussions scheduled for the March 10 meeting.

Overall, the meeting underscored the township's commitment to addressing financial challenges while ensuring essential services remain funded and operational. The next steps involve finalizing fee proposals and continuing discussions on budget allocations to meet the needs of the community.