Monroe Earns Another AA+ Bond Rating and Saves Taxpayers Dollars Through Smart Refinancing

Monroe Township continues to demonstrate the power of responsible leadership and sound fiscal management. Standard & Poor’s has once again awarded the Township an outstanding AA+ bond rating — placing Monroe among the highest-rated municipalities in New Jersey.

This strong rating reflects the overall health and stability of the Township’s finances, and it’s a direct result of years of careful budgeting and long-term financial planning. “Our commitment to fiscal responsibility not only earns the confidence of credit agencies, but also opens the door to meaningful savings for our community,” said Mayor Dalina. “Thanks to this excellent credit standing, we were able to refinance a significant portion of existing debt at an impressive interest rate of just 3.029% — a highly competitive rate in today’s market. This move will result in substantial savings for Monroe taxpayers over time.” During the recent sale of bond anticipation notes, the Township received multiple competitive bids from investors. This strong interest drove down the interest rate even further, maximizing savings and reaffirming Monroe’s reputation as a fiscally sound and investment-worthy community.

“These financial achievements are more than just numbers — they represent real savings, long-term stability, and continued confidence in Monroe’s future,” Mayor Dalina concluded.

Memorial Monument Unveiling & Dedication Ceremony: Monday, May 26

Monroe Township Recognized as Tree City USA for 28th Consecutive Year

Monroe Township has once again been honored as a Tree City USA community by the Arbor Day Foundation, marking the 28th consecutive year of recognition for its commitment to sustainable urban forestry and environmental stewardship.

“We remain deeply committed to preserving Monroe’s natural beauty through thoughtful management of our parks and open spaces,” said Mayor Stephen Dalina. “Trees are essential to our environment, and we value their lasting impact on the future of our community.”

The Tree City USA designation is awarded to municipalities that meet four core standards: maintaining a tree board or department, adopting a tree care ordinance, allocating at least $2 per capita annually for community forestry and holding an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.  Monroe Township met all these criteria once again, reflecting its long-standing dedication to its urban forest.  

Through the Shade Tree Commission, the Township celebrated Arbor Day at Barclay Brook Elementary School on Friday, April 25 where commission members, Township Council members, students and faculty participated in a tree-planting ceremony. Each student received a tree seedling along with planting and care instructions.   

“We all have a role to play in shaping our future and tree champions like Monroe Township are leading the way,” Michelle Saulnier, Vice President of Programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees are critical infrastructure, building resiliency and fostering good health in our nation’s cities.  We’re proud Monroe Township is among the Arbor Day Foundation’s growing network of communities dedicated to creating a positive impact through trees.”   

The Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program is operated in partnership with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service. To learn more about the program or how to apply, visit www.arborday.org.  

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