WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — Wayne County voters will be asked to decide on a proposed local sales and use tax during the March 3, 2026, Primary Election.
The referendum would authorize a one-quarter cent (0.25%) local sales tax, increasing the county’s overall sales tax rate from 6.75% to 7.00%. If approved, county officials estimate the tax would generate approximately $3.41 million annually for Wayne County.
The additional sales tax would apply to most taxable purchases but, by law, would not apply to groceries (non-prepared foods), gasoline, or prescription medications.
According to county officials, the revenue would be dedicated to education-related needs within Wayne County Public Schools. Planned uses include funding additional School Resource Officers (SROs) and supporting school facility and construction projects across the district.
Wayne County voters will make the final decision on the proposal when they cast ballots on March 3.
On the ballot, voters will see the option to vote FOR or AGAINST the local sales and use tax at the rate of one-quarter percent, in addition to existing state and local sales taxes.
More information, including frequently asked questions and a sales tax calculator, is available at waynegov.com/salestax.
