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By Christa Price

 

POLK COUNTY—On Monday, June 2, the Polk County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to discuss and receive public comments regarding the 2025-26 Fiscal Year Budget proposed by County Manager Marche Pittman.

The proposed budget is 13.78% lower than the previous year due to slowed growth in state revenues, sales tax, and reductions in interest income, and includes a rate increase due to the planned construction of the new YMCA building, which is set for the end of the calendar year.

There is an expected increase in sales tax, and the revenue streams will be closely watched over the year. Any revenue declines will be addressed with next year’s budgeted expenses. There is also an expected decrease in interest income from the funds associated with the North Carolina Capital Management Trust.

The initial rate was calculated with a two-cent increase, but it is subject to change in the coming weeks once the Board of Equalization and Review finishes its appeal processes. The final rate will be published as part of the budget ordinance.

On June 16 at 5 p.m. in the Bryant H. Womack Justice & Administration Building, Commissioners will meet for their regularly scheduled meeting to adopt the Tax Levy and Ordinance, which will be available at polknc.gov by June 18. The full budget packet can also be viewed at polknc.gov. 

The Bryant H. Womack Justice & Administration Building is located at 40 Courthouse Street in Columbus.