Gloucester County Administrator Carol Steele has proposed an $88 million budget for fiscal year 2026, which includes a 4.3-cent tax increase. The budget features a 3% cost-of-living raise for employees, a new position in the sheriff’s office, and increased funding for public safety and schools. Despite necessary cuts, Steele highlighted the lack of funds for economic development and quality-of-life projects. A town hall meeting will be held next Friday, March 26 for public input on the proposal.