New Jersey Voters to Decide Ballot Measures November 3

The 2026 midterm election includes key municipal ballot questions regarding taxes, volunteer benefits, and rent control.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Elections

New Jersey Voters to Decide Ballot Measures November 3

Live Poll

Do you generally support using new local tax levies to fund community open space preservation?

New Jersey voters will head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to cast ballots for U.S. House seats, a U.S. Senate seat, and numerous local measures. These elections feature significant decisions on municipal ordinances ranging from open space taxes to rent control.

Why it matters

These local ballot measures represent the direct democratic process for New Jersey residents, shaping their property tax rates and housing regulations. The outcomes of these municipal votes will have immediate impacts on household budgets and local volunteer program funding.

Old Bridge voters face a proposed 3 cents per $100 property tax for open space, while Elizabeth considers a $20 annual rent increase cap. Additionally, Sayreville residents will vote on increasing volunteer emergency service contributions from $750 to $1,150.

The players

Old Bridge

This is a township in Middlesex County where voters are considering a new tax for open space.

Sayreville

This is a borough in Middlesex County that is seeking to increase funding for its volunteer emergency service program.

Elizabeth

This is a city in Union County where residents will vote on a proposed amendment to the local rent control ordinance.

The details

Voters in Old Bridge will weigh an open space tax that would cost the owner of a $125,000 property an additional $37.50 per year. Meanwhile, Elizabeth is considering an amendment to its rent control ordinance that limits base increases to 3% or $20, whichever is less.

1999: Sayreville established the Length of Service Award Program.
November 3, 2026: New Jersey midterm elections and ballot question voting occur.

Political Context

These ballot initiatives reflect the ongoing push and pull between property owners and municipal advocates in New Jersey. Opposition to such taxes often centers on fiscal fatigue and the burden of rising local property tax rates on fixed-income households.

Residents in these municipalities should review their ballots to understand how these measures will impact their local property taxes and rent. Voters in Union and Middlesex counties should be aware of their specific local mayoral races in addition to the state and federal contests.

The takeaway

Voters play a critical role in local governance by deciding on municipal funding and regulatory ordinances. Reviewing local ballot language ahead of election day helps ensure residents are prepared to cast informed votes on financial measures.