The 2023-2024 Lenoir County Budget was passed with no dissenting votes on Monday.

According to the budget memo presented to the Lenoir County Commissioners, the budget reflects the county's commitment to progress and the efficient allocation of limited resources to positively impact the community. Utilizing the Zero-Based Budgeting model, the County ensures that all budget requests are thoroughly evaluated against previous results and current expectations. This approach guarantees that County resources are invested in a manner that aligns with the Board of Commissioners' Strategic Plan.

“There is no increase in the County Tax Rate of $.845,” said County Manager Michael James.

The FY 2023-2024 Manager's Recommended Budget highlights various investments and initiatives. It fully funds market-based compensation adjustments that were approved in January 2023 and absorbs a 5% increase in medical insurance premiums without passing the increase onto employees. The budget also maintains the employer contributions for the 401(K) plan and supports mandated increases in state retirement contributions.

Additionally, the budget includes funding for the Nuisance Abatement Program, investments in building inspections software and customer interface, a county legal services contract, and three formally unfunded full-time equivalent positions for special projects coordination, adult services supervision, and economic development. The EMS system expansion plan approved by the Board of Commissioners is also supported in the budget.

The Capital Improvement Plan utilizes funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and grants, while the Enterprise Fleet Management Program is maintained. The budget continues to invest in the County Staff Development Program and includes funds for the renovation of the 911 Center using state and local dollars.

“As always, we remain a lean organization with limited resources that must be prioritized to live within our means while working to continue the Board’s Strategic Plan Goals,” said James.

The Manager's Recommended Budget strives to align with the Board's Strategic Plan, which aims to make Lenoir County the economic and cultural center of Eastern North Carolina, recognized for innovation and preserving its rural heritage and small-town charm. By directing budget appropriations towards Economic Development, Public Safety, County Services, and Leadership & Governance, the County aims to create a vibrant environment for citizens and businesses.

Regarding Ad Valorem Tax Revenue, Lenoir County anticipates growth due to ongoing efforts to attract private investment and create a business-friendly community. While the County expects higher revenue collection, it recognizes the need to be a lean organization and evaluate requests that increase operational expenses.

In terms of tax rates, the County Tax Rate remains unchanged at $0.845 per $100 of valuation. However, the fire tax rates for Wyse Fork, Sandy Bottom, and Southwood Fire Service Districts increased to $0.10 per $100 of valuation based on requests from volunteer fire departments.

When asked about the major highlights and strategic priorities of the proposed budget, James emphasized the full funding of compensation adjustments approved in January 2023 and the support for the County Tax Revaluation Project's second year. The budget also includes funding for a County Economic Development Director and the expansion of the EMS system.

As for salary raises for staff, there are no additional salary increases specified for FY 2024.

There are no planned expansions for the Sheriff's Office staffing levels. However, the consolidation of Animal Control with the City of Kinston will be considered at the Board's upcoming meeting, potentially leading to an expansion of that division through a financial partnership between the County and the City.

Lastly, there are no major expansion projects or infrastructure developments outlined in the proposed budget.