Which businesses qualify for these disaster loans?

Small businesses and private nonprofit organizations that were affected by the May 3, 2026 fire in Belleville Township are eligible to apply. The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved a disaster declaration specifically making Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to these impacted groups.

How much might my property taxes increase?

Belleville homeowners could face a tax hike of roughly $175 under the proposed town budget that addresses the fire's impact. Council members are currently reviewing how this spring's warehouse fire will influence local taxation for residents.

When did the Belleville fire happen?

The devastating warehouse fire in Belleville Township occurred on May 3, 2026. Governor Mikie Sherrill announced federal loan assistance for this specific event on June 17.

Belleville businesses can apply for SBA disaster loans after May fire

Governor Mikie Sherrill announced on June 17 that federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to Belleville small businesses and nonprofits impacted by the warehouse blaze.

By The Eleventh staff · July 24, 2026 · AI-assisted, grounded in the cited sources below

Small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Belleville Township now have access to low-interest federal disaster loans following a devastating fire. Governor Mikie Sherrill made this announcement on June 17, confirming that the U.S. Small Business Administration has approved her request for a formal disaster declaration.

The financial assistance comes after a major warehouse fire occurred in Belleville Township on May 3, 2026. This event caused significant disruption to local commerce and prompted immediate action from state officials to secure federal aid for those who suffered economic losses.

Federal Aid Becomes Available

Under the new declaration, eligible entities can apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans through the SBA program. These loans are designed specifically to help businesses cover operating expenses when they cannot meet financial obligations due to a disaster event like this fire.

The Small Business Administration will have representatives available on site or remotely to answer questions about the application process. This support ensures that business owners and nonprofit leaders can navigate the paperwork without confusion during a difficult recovery period.

Local Council Reviews Impact

Belleville council members recently received an update regarding this spring's devastating warehouse fire and its potential impact on local taxes. The discussion included how the loss of property might affect the town budget in the coming months or years.

Some Belleville homeowners could face a tax hike of approximately $175 under a proposed new town budget that accounts for these recent events. This figure represents a significant consideration for residents as they plan their household finances alongside business recovery efforts.

Community Resources and Events

While the focus remains on economic recovery, local institutions are also working to maintain community engagement through cultural programming. The Nutley Public Library is hosting award-winning filmmakers Marylou and Jerome Bongiorno for a screening of their work titled Rust.

This event brings Emmy-nominated talent back to the area, offering residents an opportunity to gather despite the recent challenges faced by neighboring Belleville Township. Such screenings serve as important reminders of community resilience in Morris, Essex, and Passaic counties.

What Residents Should Know Next

Business owners affected by the May 3 fire should act quickly to apply for assistance before deadlines pass or funding runs out. The SBA has confirmed that representatives are ready to assist with inquiries about eligibility requirements and loan terms specific to this disaster declaration.

The timeline of events shows a rapid response from state leadership, moving from the initial fire in May to the official announcement of aid availability by mid-June. This sequence demonstrates how quickly federal resources can be mobilized when local officials advocate for their constituents effectively.