This bill amends various sections of New Jersey's local government budget processes, primarily focusing on extending deadlines for budget submissions and audits. Key changes include requiring mayors and municipal managers to submit their recommended budgets to the council by February 28, instead of the previous January 15 deadline. The governing body must introduce and approve the annual budget by March 31, with specific provisions for municipalities operating on the State fiscal year. Additionally, the bill increases penalties for non-compliance, raising the personal penalty for governing body members from $25 to $100 per day for failing to comply with budgetary regulations. It also extends the deadline for completing annual audits to the last day of the eighth month after the close of the fiscal year and mandates that adopted budgets be made available for public inspection online.

Moreover, the bill introduces amendments regarding the appointment and responsibilities of municipal officials, including chief financial officers, municipal clerks, and tax collectors. It requires governing bodies to appoint a chief financial officer or municipal clerk within 90 days of a vacancy, with the possibility of extensions granted by the director. The bill also outlines the process for appointing acting officials and clarifies conditions under which the director may revoke or suspend certificates for misconduct. Additionally, it establishes qualifications and responsibilities for purchasing agents, including certification requirements and continuing education mandates. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability, ensure timely appointments, and improve the management of public works and procurement activities in municipalities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40A:5A-15, 40A:9-28.4, 40A:9-133.5, 40A:9-140.10, 40A:9-145.5, 40A:9-154.6, 40A:11-9, 54:4-66.3, 54:4-66.4