Starting in 2020, tens of millions of dollars in federal pandemic relief funding flowed into New Jersey. Cape May County received $44.8 million for 15 school districts, while county and municipal governments were allocated $33 million. Of that, $18 million was distributed at the county level, and $15 million went to the county’s 16 towns. In total, Cape May County received $78 million in federal relief funding.
There were specific rules and deadlines for using the funds. The final allocation for education relief funding had to be spent by 2024 unless an extension was granted – none were, in Cape May County. According to a state database, all school districts that received funding fully spent the money by the deadline.
Local Fiscal Recovery Funds were distributed to municipalities in two installments, for use in 2021 and 2022. According to the U.S. Treasury, the funds were intended to help local governments mitigate the health and economic impacts of the pandemic, maintain vital services and support economic recovery.
With nearly $80 million in pandemic relief funds spent in the county, the public deserves to know: How was the money spent? What was it used for? How has the county fared as a result?
Some school and municipal budgets struggled after the federal funds were exhausted. The temporary funding allowed for expanded services, many of which had to be cut or supported through other means once the relief ended.
State Education Department records provide some insight into school district spending. Nearly half of the funding – about $21 million – was allocated for building renovation projects in Cape May County. Another $6 million was used for instruction, while $5.6 million went to support services.
However, broad spending categories do little to provide detailed transparency on how the funds were used.
Similarly, a state database provides an overview of Local Fiscal Recovery Fund allocations for counties and municipalities. For example, Middle Township received just under $2 million, Ocean City was allocated more than $7 million, and the county government received $17.9 million.
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Despite the influx of federal funding, the county tax levy rose 26% in 2022 compared to 2019 – a sharp contrast to the 8% increase in municipal levies over the same period.
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The database shows that the county reported funding 31 projects with relief dollars, including HVAC upgrades, seawall extensions, sewer extensions and road work. While there is no indication of improper use, the data available to the public lacks specificity.
The public deserves a full accounting of how these funds were spent. For example, despite the influx of federal relief across 31 projects, the county tax levy rose 26% in 2022 compared to 2019, while municipal tax levies increased only 8% over the same period. There may be valid reasons for this, but they have not been disclosed.
There are multiple ways officials could provide transparency. Municipalities and school districts could post detailed spending reports online, allowing residents to ask questions at public meetings. The county could also organize a presentation to explain how the money was used. The options are many.
What cannot be allowed is for nearly $79 million in federal relief to be spent without a clear and detailed public report. The public has a right to know, and officials have a duty to inform.
Quotes From the Bible
For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man. 2 Corinthians 8:21
- This verse underscores the importance of transparency and accountability. Just as Paul emphasized ethical stewardship in handling donations, public officials should ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely and reported clearly.
