Cape May County Adopts Smaller 2026 Budget with Lower Tax Rate

Issue #658

April 16, 2026

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In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather

💰 Cape May County Adopts Smaller 2026 Budget with Lower Tax Rate

 🚗Lower Township’s Parking Ordinance Sparks Concern in Diamond Beach

🕓1 A.M. Curfew Planned for Wildwood Boardwalk

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Daisy Lane Boutique

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 April 16

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Cape May County Adopts Smaller 2026 Budget with Lower Tax Rate

  Cape May County officials have approved a $223.3 million budget for 2026, marking a decrease of about $6.49 million, or 2.8 percent, compared to the previous year. The spending plan was adopted after a public hearing, following its initial introduction in March. County leaders say the budget reflects a continued focus on managing costs while maintaining essential services. Despite a modest increase in the total tax levy to $167.86 million, growth in property values across the county has allowed the overall tax rate to decline, easing the burden on individual taxpayers. The county remains below the state’s allowable tax levy cap by roughly $1.93 million, signaling a conservative financial approach while preserving flexibility for future budgets. Officials credit rising property values and steady development for helping spread the tax responsibility more evenly.

Lower Township’s Parking Ordinance Sparks Concern in Diamond Beach

Residents of Diamond Beach in Lower Township, New Jersey, are voicing frustration after officials approved a seasonal paid parking ordinance that many say caught them off guard. The measure, passed in March, will require drivers to pay for street parking between May 15 and September 15, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., using the ParkMobile app. The new rules apply to several residential streets, including sections of East Rochester, Seaview, South Station, and East Raleigh Avenues, as well as the full stretch of Atlantic Avenue up to the Wildwood Crest border. Approximately 160 metered parking spaces will be introduced as part of the plan. Local residents, including both full-time and part-time homeowners, say the sudden rollout has created anxiety and confusion. Many are concerned that the shift to paid parking will limit already scarce street spaces, making it harder for residents and their guests to find parking near their homes. In response to resident concerns, the township is considering a second ordinance that would introduce a $250 seasonal parking permit for locals. However, some residents remain skeptical, noting that a permit would not guarantee a parking spot.

1 A.M. Curfew Planned for Wildwood Boardwalk

 Wildwood officials have taken the first step toward establishing overnight operating hours for the city’s iconic Boardwalk, introducing a new ordinance that would close the attraction to the public between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. year-round. The proposal, introduced on April 8, aims to address late-night activity by restricting access during early morning hours. If adopted, visitors would not be permitted to remain on the Boardwalk during that timeframe, with exceptions made for emergency responders, authorized personnel, and individuals approved by the city. City leaders say the change is part of a broader effort to improve public safety and maintain a more family-friendly environment. The plan is designed to reduce large late-night gatherings and disruptive behavior while still supporting local businesses that operate along the Boardwalk. Officials emphasized that the measure is not intended to hinder commerce but to create a more controlled and welcoming atmosphere. The ordinance is scheduled for a second reading and public hearing on April 22, when commissioners will consider final adoption. The move builds on recent safety initiatives, including a youth curfew and restrictions on backpacks during evening hours, introduced after prior concerns about crowd behavior.

Which Cape May beach is named after a famous philanthropist and offers a more secluded spot compared to other local beaches?

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 Answer to the April 15th Trivia Question

Which Cape May location is famous for its World War II-era watchtower, known as Fire Control Tower No. 23, used to spot enemy ships?

A) The Cove
B) Sunset Beach
C) Higbee Beach
D) Cape May Point State Park

Answer: B) Sunset Beach.

Fire Control Tower No. 23, located at Sunset Beach, was part of the coastal defense system during World War II. It was used to help coordinate artillery fire and spot enemy ships off the coast of Cape May. Today, it serves as a museum and memorial.

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