The Wayne County Board of Commissioners convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on maintaining and improving county services. The meeting highlighted key projects and financial strategies aimed at enhancing community infrastructure and services.

County Manager Chip Crumple presented a comprehensive overview of the proposed budget, which totals $276,286,558, with the general fund accounting for approximately 88% of this amount. The budget aims to finalize several ongoing projects, including the expansion of the Kerry Winder detention center, the completion of the E.B. Board and Parker Health and Human Services Building, and improvements to the Wayne County Industrial Campus.

A significant aspect of the budget is the allocation of over $2 million in grant funding for the construction of EMS Station 12, which is intended to better serve the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base population. Additionally, the county secured a $2.8 million loan from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund to support the Genoa Sewer Rehabilitation Project.

Crumple emphasized the importance of the budget as a policy tool that determines staffing levels, equipment needs, and prioritizes services. The proposed budget includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for county employees and a salary study for one-third of county departments to ensure competitive compensation.

The budget also reflects a projected 19% increase in registered motor vehicle tax collections and a 9% increase in sewer fees, correlating with anticipated increases from the City of Goldsboro for treatment services. The unemployment rate in Wayne County has decreased to 3.6%, which is below the state average, indicating a positive economic trend.

Funding for public education has been increased by $1,141,829, supporting 19 school resource officers across county public schools. The budget also includes provisions for Wayne Community College, with an increase of $887,857.

Crumple acknowledged the extensive efforts of county staff in preparing the budget and noted that a public hearing is scheduled for June, with the budget set to take effect on July 1, 2025. The Board of Commissioners will have the opportunity to adopt the budget following the public hearing, with potential adjustments based on community feedback.

Overall, the meeting underscored Wayne County's commitment to enhancing public services and infrastructure while maintaining fiscal responsibility.