Bloomfield Property Tax Hike Sparks Sticker Shock, Mayor Comments On Budget

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Bloomfield’s mayor has issued a statement about property taxes after some local residents got sticker shock from their latest bill.

The Bloomfield Township Council voted 5-2 to approve the 2026 municipal budget in July. The spending plan comes with a 12.1 percent tax levy increase – more than three times last year’s number. An average homeowner with a property assessed at $355,263 will see a $589 annual hike to the municipal portion of their taxes (this number doesn’t include school and county taxes).

>> READ MORE: Bloomfield Town Council OKs Hefty Tax Hike

On Thursday, Mayor Jenny Mundell shared a message on social media about 2026 property taxes in Bloomfield.

Her full message to the community follows below:

“As you receive your 2026 property tax bill, I want to explain the municipal tax increase reflected on your bill and why your fourth-quarter bill may be significantly higher than your third-quarter bill.

“Because the township's final 2026 municipal budget was adopted after third-quarter tax bills were issued, the municipal portion of your Q3 bill was based on an estimate. Your Q4 bill reflects the certified municipal tax rate plus the difference between the estimated amount billed in Q3 and the final amount due for the year. This is why the municipal portion of your Q4 bill may be significantly higher than Q3.

“The 2026 budget reflects rising costs facing municipalities across New Jersey, including increases in health insurance, pensions, public safety, and wastewater treatment. The township worked to limit the impact on taxpayers while maintaining essential services and reduced spending through operational efficiencies and cost-saving measures for the second consecutive year, while preserving core services without layoffs.

“Your bill funds three separate entities, the township sets only the municipal portion. School taxes account for 44.35% of your total property tax bill. Municipal taxes, including the library tax and open space, account for 41.82%. County taxes, including county open space, account for 13.83%.

“While taxes are due November 1, there is a 10-day grace period during which no penalties are incurred. Residents enrolled in the [New Jersey] Senior Freeze program must still pay their township tax bill, and will be reimbursed for the 2026 increase when filing in 2027.

“If you have questions about your bill or need assistance, please contact the tax office at 973-680-4049. Staff can connect eligible residents with Human Services for benefits screening and information about programs that may assist with gas and electricity bills, water and sewer fees, food, security deposits, and Medicare B and D costs. Eligibility requirements apply.

“As mayor, I remain committed to responsible financial management, transparency, and ensuring residents understand how their tax dollars are used. We will continue working to control costs, improve efficiency, and protect the services our community relies on.

“Thank you for your continued engagement and for being part of our community.”

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