By admin 
ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. (WNCN) — The City of Rocky Mount’s manager presented a fiscal year budget that looks to help get the “center of it all” back on the right track following its recent financial crisis.
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During Monday’s budget proposal, City Manager Elton Daniels recommended a smaller budget for Rocky Mount than the previous year.
The 2026-27 budget comes to a total of $269,680,496 million, which, according to the city manager, would be $16 million smaller than the 2025-26 budget.
“The recommended budget reflects the City’s continued commitment to fiscal responsibility, long-term financial stability, infrastructure investment, and the delivery of essential public services,” the city wrote in a statement. “The proposal also addresses several critical operational and capital needs while continuing efforts to strengthen the City’s financial position.”
Rocky Mount citizens are looking at some increases as a result of the proposed budget, namely in the form of a property tax increase and an annual vehicle fee increase.
According to the city, if the budget is adopted, a seven-cent property tax rate increase will be implemented. Representing a new tax rate of $0.69 per $100 of assessed valuation for the property.
As for the annual vehicle fee, it would be increased from $25 to $30. The city said the additional revenue would be used on things like street resurfacing and transportation infrastructure improvements.
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Some of the budget’s shrinkage can be attributed to the reduction of more than $2 million in internal costs, such as administrative fees.
Not all of the proposed budget was focused on ways the city can make more money.
It was also suggested that the city invest in upgrading its financial management software to improve “operational efficiency, transparency, and reporting capabilities.”
The city manager’s proposal also recommended that money be put toward upgrading gas meters, improving the city’s Electric Point of Delivery Stations and adding an Assistant Director of Finance position in order to strengthen financial operations.
“While difficult decisions remain necessary, this budget prioritizes responsible stewardship of public resources and investments that support the community’s future,” Daniels said.
A public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled to take place during the June 8, council meeting at 6 p.m.
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More information about the proposed budget can be found here.