The City of Goldsboro approves a new budget that includes water and sewer rate increases.

Wednesday, the Goldsboro City Council narrowly approved the 2020-2021 Budget on a 4 – 3 vote.

Council member Antonio Williams explained he would vote “no” because the plan includes no funds for a forensic audit.

Council member Gene Aycock stated he didn’t see a specific reason to warrant a forensic audit, although Aycock noted there has been accounting errors due to the difference between the current and former finance directors.

Williams and Council member Brandi Matthews also took issue with an allocation for the “Friends of Seymour” group that includes members of the city council.

The new financial plan includes a 17.5% water and sewer rate increase and a $1 per month recycling surcharge.  That was also approved on a 4 – 3 vote Wednesday.  The new rates go into effect August 1st.

There will be no increase in the city’s property tax rate which is set at $0.65 per $100.