Cape May County government is taking steps to reduce its expenditures during the coronavirus pandemic, the county announced Tuesday. Changes include a 10 percent reduction through the end of this budget year for operating expenses and capital budget items. All new bonding for capital projects has been tabled. There has also been a general moratorium on hiring.County government is taking these steps to ensure it continues in good financial standing, according to a press release. COVID-19 shut down many businesses in the state for months and forced many to make tough decisions.
“I believe these changes are necessary at this time,” said Cape May County Freeholder Director Gerald M. Thornton, the liaison to Revenue and Finance,He continued, “We can’t watch our taxpayers adjusting their spending and not do the same. While I had already implemented a general hiring freeze, these next steps will make sure that we safeguard our financial future in the upcoming budget cycles.”Cape May County currently remains on solid financial footing, according to the release. The situation will continue to be monitored every 30 days with further steps to be taken if necessary. New Jersey is currently doing better than many other states regarding the COVID-19 outbreak. But one thing that has been learned is the virus brings uncertainty. The budget decisions being made now reflect the unpredictability in the months ahead, Thornton indicated.“The steps we have outlined are an example of Cape May County being proactive,” Thornton said. “We are taking prudent steps to protect the financial future of our county taxpayers.”
