PROPOSED STONE HARBOR MUNICIPAL BUDGET PROJECTS EFFICIENCIES FROM SHARED SERVICES, UTILITY MANAGEMENT, CAPITAL ALLOCATION

PROPOSED STONE HARBOR MUNICIPAL BUDGET PROJECTS EFFICIENCIES FROM SHARED SERVICES, UTILITY MANAGEMENT, CAPITAL ALLOCATION

Spending plan would ensure compliance with state budget cap guidelines

STONE HARBOR, NEW JERSEY — (April 4, 2025) — Projected efficiencies from a shared services arrangement for construction inspections, a realignment of utility administrative costs, shared services for Uniform Construction Code Services and a re-allocation of capital expenditures will allow Stone Harbor to enact a municipal budget within state cap limits.

The shared services initiative with nearby Wildwood Crest would consolidate inspections performed under the Uniform Construction Code and ensure qualified inspection services after retirements and staffing changes among Stone Harbor’s construction code officials.

The proposed budget would also re-allocate administrative expenses more accurately for liability insurance, workers’ compensation and pension contributions in the Water and Sewer Utility budget. And, consistent with state guidelines, expenditures related to stormwater management and water pollution control programs can also be treated as outside-the-cap items.

“First and foremost, our focus on the 2025 Municipal Budget has made significant headway, particularly in addressing the appropriation cap issue that has been a concern,” explained Council President Jennifer Gensemer, who also chairs the Administration & Finance Committee. Gensemer commended the committee’s work, and the borough CFO and acting administrator

Cynthia Lindsay who conducted “an in-depth, thorough, line-by-line review” of the water and sewer utility budget.

Gensemer noted the borough is also focused on capital improvement planning. “A comprehensive review of departmental needs is underway, focusing on infrastructure investments that enhance the quality of life for our residents and visitors alike,” she said. This review includes:

The construction of new playgrounds and improvements to recreation areas;

Upgrades to tennis, pickleball, and bocce courts;

Improvements to municipal buildings and the firehouse; and

Acquisition of essential equipment for Public Works.

The formal budget will be introduced at council’s April 15 meeting, followed by public hearings and final adoption planned for the May 20 council session.

At the April 1 meeting, Council also approved contracts with borough engineer DeBlasio and Associates for phase 2 of the 96^th Street Recreation Complex, and Trinity Code Inspections for plumbing and electrical sub-code inspection services.