On Thursday, May 22, the Mercer County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt the 2025 Mercer County Budget. County Executive Dan Benson introduced the proposed budget in April, and the Commissioners worked in close collaboration with the administration to finalize the plan in time for annual tax assessments.
The adopted budget totals $420,116,995, reflecting an increase of less than 2% in non-grant expenditures compared to the previous year. The 2025 budget emphasizes fiscal restraint, investment in core services, and continued recovery from prior financial mismanagement.
“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,” said County Executive Benson. “Working closely with the Commissioner Board, we were able to create a budget that works for all our residents, while saving money by not filling vacancies and delaying less time-sensitive projects.”
The budget notably reduces debt service obligations by nearly $9 million, from $42 million in 2024 to approximately $33.5 million in 2025 — a key step in improving long-term fiscal health. Capital improvements are limited to $2 million, with a focus on essential maintenance, equipment replacement, and modest infrastructure upgrades.
“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,” said Board of Commissioners Chair Kristin McLaughlin.
To manage uncertainty around future federal funding, the County has prioritized programs with the most direct community impact and reduced reliance on temporary grants. Public health services, workforce development initiatives, and transportation operations remain funded at sustainable levels.
“With uncertainty coming out of Washington, the Commissioner Board was tasked with making sure the Mercer County budget could take care of our most vulnerable, while not setting us back in our progress toward financial stability,” said Commissioner Vice-Chair Terrance Stokes.
Personnel costs remain stable as the County continues its strategic hiring freeze, opting not to fill a number of open positions in 2025. No major departmental expansions or service cuts were enacted, ensuring continuity for residents while containing costs.
The budget is available for review at the Clerk to the Board of Commissioners’ Office and online at: https://www.mercercounty.org/home/showpublisheddocument/34154
