Camden Budget Increase: $743K Hike, Monthly Trash Pickup

Camden's Board of Commissioners will review cost-cutting options before introducing the annual budget in May after confronting a projected $743,000 tax increase that would add $200 annually to a home valued at $535,743.

Rising employee healthcare costs, higher utility expenses, and anticipated trash collection fee spikes drive the increase. Commissioners are considering moving bulk trash pickup from weekly to monthly and eliminating the home clean-out service for residents moving.

The board will vote on two fire-related ordinances at its April 28 business meeting: updated fire inspection fees and a new outdoor burning ordinance. Commissioners will also introduce ordinances extending the marijuana moratorium for five years, modifying the sidewalk ordinance and land use code, and adding recreation utility fees.

Fire Chief Cutler presented traffic solutions for Elizabeth Haddon School, including encouraging more students to walk to reduce drop-off and pickup congestion.

The April 28 business meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. The work session recording is available at https://youtu.be/h2BVFdQX9Tk.