Wake County residents voice concerns on proposed 2026-27 fiscal budget

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — The Wake County Board of Commissioners is considering a $2.28 billion budget for fiscal year 2026-27 that could come with a two-cent property tax increase.

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Monday night, the board heard from the community about their concerns with the proposal.

“I know that planning of budgeting is difficult and demanding process but I also know that one of the responsibilities of the commissioners is to ensure that the budget reflects the priorities of Wake County citizens,” Gary, a Wake County resident, said at the meeting.

Wake County leaders said that since the state is not meeting budget demands, Wake County has to find a way to fill the gaps.

“We’re all trying to find ways to make things work cause its all about collaboration and trying to do the best we can with what we have,” Don Mial, Chair of Wake County Commissioners, said.

The proposed two-cent property tax aims to help meet that demand.

According to Wake County, it would raise the property tax rate from 53 to 71 cents and generate an additional $62 million.

The owner of a $450,000 home would see a $90 increase in their taxes.

“Recent push back from citizens against property taxes is a direct response to these continued increases,” Gary said.

Mial said he understands the concern about the tax increase.

“That’s the last thing we want, we realize that every little penny hurts our constituents,” Mial said.

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Community members said that they are feeling the direct impact as the fiscal budget has cuts every year, including Wake County Libraries.

“In our petition, we highlight the staffing crisis in our libraries, which has become increasingly severe over the past two years, most recently with a 30% cut to our temporary staff power at the beginning of fiscal year 2026,” Librarian Zach Morgan said.

Other community members are urging the board to allot more money for affordable housing.

“The need is still huge, housing prices in Wake County have risen so dramatically in just the last few years that even people with steady jobs are struggling to keep up,” Wake County resident Summer Jennings said.

Wake County Manager David Ellis said this year’s budget is focused on enhancing public safety, using the $8 million in new property tax for additional EMT positions, Fire service training and reopening the jail annex.

“We are just as concerned as they are, and trust me, we want to make sure we are doing everything we can,” Mial said.

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The board of commissioners is set to vote on the budget on June 1.