City of Mebane Budget Work Session April 2026

The City of Mebane held a special budget work session on April 9, 2026, focusing extensively on the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget and related capital improvement projects. Key procurement discussions included the proposed 2-cent tax increase to fund the purchase of a new tiller truck, replacement of a ladder and rescue truck, and the construction of a new fire station (Fire Station Four). The council reviewed options for purchasing park land, specifically two properties: the Thorbrite property and the Seven Mile Farm property, with detailed financial scenarios presented regarding debt issuance, interest costs, and impacts on the budget. The council voted 3-2 to proceed with purchasing the Seven Mile Farm property for $1.5 million, with funding to come from the general capital reserve fund. Additional budget items discussed included replacement of a soccer field at the community park, new staffing positions across general and utility funds, and capital projects such as the Lake Michael Spillway Dam and sewer rehabilitation. The meeting also addressed the challenges of balancing the budget amid rising costs and potential state property tax limitations. The next steps include a recommended budget presentation on May 4 and a budget adoption scheduled for June 2, 2026.