Wayne County, N.C. — Tuesday, May 20, Wayne County Manager Chip Crumpler unveiled his recommended $276.3 million budget for Fiscal Year 2025–2026 during Monday’s regular Board of Commissioners meeting, highlighting key investments in education, infrastructure, and public services.
The proposed budget includes an ad valorem property tax rate of $0.6209 per $100 of assessed value—above the newly calculated revenue-neutral rate of $0.5633 following the 2025 property revaluation. County officials say the increase is necessary to counteract inflation and preserve current service levels.
“This budget provides the means to maintain sound financial practices while also meeting the capital needs to keep the County moving forward,” said Crumpler. “Wayne County’s citizens and the Board of Commissioners expect and demand a level of service, and this budget will help us meet these expectations.”
Education Tops County Priorities
Education remains a focal point of the FY25–26 spending plan. Local funding for Wayne County Public Schools is set to increase by more than $1.14 million—surpassing the level outlined in the County’s funding formula. Funding for School Resource Officers (SROs) also sees a nearly $40,000 boost, ensuring continued support for all 19 positions.
Wayne Community College could see an increase of over $887,000, reflecting the County’s ongoing commitment to higher education and workforce development.
Investing in County Services and Employees
Crumpler’s proposed budget includes a 3 percent cost-of-living adjustment for County employees, along with targeted raises based on a recent salary study. Retirement contributions for general and law enforcement personnel will rise, in line with state mandates.
Six new full-time and two part-time positions are proposed across EMS, 911, Emergency Services, and Services on Aging, reflecting growing service demands.
Capital Projects and Infrastructure
Major infrastructure projects continue to move forward. These include expansion of the Carey Winders Detention Center, completion of the Health and Human Services building, and continued development at the Wayne County Industrial Campus.
Construction of EMS Station 12—intended to serve the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base area—is advancing with help from a $2 million grant, now managed by the County’s newly contracted grant firm. The budget also supports the first phase of the Genoa Sewer Rehabilitation Project, backed by a Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan.
A revised five-year Capital Improvement Plan includes $1.44 million from the unassigned General Fund balance for FY25–26 projects. In total, $1.9 million will be drawn from reserves to cover capital items, employee compensation adjustments, and one-time expenses.
Adjusted Fees for Essential Services
To sustain these investments, the County proposes fee increases for several services, including sewer systems, solid waste tipping and household disposal, jetport hangar rentals, and fingerprinting. These adjustments are designed to reflect rising operational costs and maintain fiscal stability.
“This was truly a team effort,” said Crumpler, thanking staff for their dedication. “Our goal was to develop a budget that serves our residents responsibly and positions the County for continued growth.”
Public Input Encouraged
A public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled for Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. in the Commissioners Meeting Room at the Wayne County Courthouse Annex, 224 E. Walnut Street in Goldsboro. Residents are encouraged to attend or submit written comments for consideration.
The full recommended budget is available online at www.waynegov.com and in the Office of the Clerk to the Board. The Board of Commissioners may adopt the budget any time after the public hearing but must do so no later than June 30, 2025. If approved, the budget will take effect on July 1.
Editor’s Note: Graphs and visuals from the May 20 presentation are available online at https://waynegov.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=987
