The cost of health benefits is spiraling out of control- when are politicians going to do something about it? Same for utilities.
MIDDLETOWN -- Brookdale Community College leaders are preparing to lay off staff to combat rising costs and long-term declines in enrollment, college President David M. Stout confirmed Wednesday, Aug. 26,
The college's c
ost for employee health benefits increased by $11 million in 2025 to $17.7 million in 2026, Stout said through a college spokesperson. The expense is projected to reach $24.3 million in the next fiscal year, he said.
"This decision comes after months of careful financial analysis and sustained efforts to reduce expenses while protecting our academic mission, student services and long-term financial stability," the college president said in a statement. "Unfortunately, the financial challenges facing colleges and universities across New Jersey are also affecting Brookdale. These financial challenges require us to make difficult decisions now to ensure that the College remains strong and able to serve our students and community well into the future."
"While enrollment has recovered somewhat since the pandemic, it remains nearly 6% below pre-pandemic levels," Stout said. "At the same time, the cost of operating the College has increased substantially faster than enrollment. Since FY (fiscal year) 2020,
utility costs have risen nearly 90%, while employee health benefit costs have increased by more than 33%."