Mercer County Passes 2025 Budget. What to Know

MERCER COUNTY, NJ – On Thursday, the Mercer County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt the 2025 budget.

County Executive Dan Benson introduced the budget in April, and the Commissioners worked closely with the administration to ensure its completion in time for annual tax assessments.

The total budget for 2025 is $420,116,995. Excluding grants, this represents an increase of less than 2 percent compared to the 2024 budget, rising from approximately $397 million to $403 million in non-grant expenditures.

This year’s budget continues to correct for earlier fiscal accountability issues from the previous administration and addresses potential Federal budget cuts.

The adopted budget aims to advance county priorities by investing in infrastructure, public programs, and community development, while maintaining prudent fiscal management. It emphasizes fiscal restraint through measures such as not filling vacancies and delaying less time-sensitive projects.

“When I took office in 2024, I knew the problems Mercer County faced were not going to be fixed in one year, and some might not even be fixed in one term,” Benson said. "Working closely with the Commissioner Board, we were able to create a budget that would work for all our residents, while saving money by not filling vacancies and delaying less time-sensitive projects.”

The administration implemented various cost-saving measures, including consolidating staff into County-owned facilities and maintaining select position vacancies.

“Once again, in working with the Benson Administration, we have had a partner who understands our concerns and is willing to make sure we have a budget that preserves key services without over-burdening the taxpayer,” Board of Commissioners Chair Kristin McLaughli said.

Despite fiscal challenges, several major infrastructure initiatives continues to advance, including renovations to the Trenton Thunder ballpark, modernization of Trenton-Mercer Airport, reconstruction of the Lincoln Avenue Bridge, and revitalization of the South Broad Street corridor.

The County will also maintain its commitment to environmental preservation through the Open Space Trust Fund and plans to launch a grant program for municipalities and nonprofits to enhance Mercer's trail network.

To have a look at the adopted budget, visit: https://www.mercercounty.org/home/showpublisheddocument/34154

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