During the Edgecombe County Commissioners meeting on May 21, 2025, officials presented the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining the current tax rate while addressing various revenue streams and expenditures.

The proposed budget totals approximately $81 million, reflecting a modest increase of about $1.2 million, or 1.5%, from the previous fiscal year. Notably, the tax rate will remain unchanged at 89 cents per $100 of assessed property value, which officials believe will help maintain stability for residents. The anticipated collection rate for property taxes is projected at 96%, consistent with previous years.

Key discussions centered around the county's primary revenue sources: property tax and sales tax. While property tax revenues are expected to remain stable, officials expressed caution regarding sales tax, forecasting a decrease of $500,000 for the next fiscal year due to economic uncertainties. This cautious approach stems from a recent trend showing a decline in sales tax collections compared to the previous year, prompting a reevaluation of future projections.

In addition to property and sales tax, the budget includes considerations for other revenue streams, such as emergency medical services and inmate housing fees. The county is reviewing its fee schedule for emergency services, acknowledging that current revenues do not fully cover operational costs. Meanwhile, inmate housing revenues have significantly decreased from previous years, necessitating adjustments in budget forecasts.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of transparency in the budgeting process. Officials encouraged residents to review the detailed budget documents, emphasizing their commitment to keeping the community informed about financial decisions that impact local services and programs.

As the county moves forward with the proposed budget, officials aim to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of the community, ensuring that essential services continue to be funded while navigating the challenges posed by economic fluctuations. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential adjustments before finalizing the budget for approval.