Board of Commissioners Public Hearing 05/07/2026

The Rockingham County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on May 7, 2026, to discuss and approve the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget. The budget includes a modest 1.67% increase in appropriations but necessitates a 13% property tax increase due to depleted savings and increased costs, including inflation, bail reform impacts on jail population, and staffing expenses for a new $80 million building. Commissioners emphasized the need to restore the county's fund balance to maintain financial stability and bond ratings, rejecting larger immediate tax hikes as unsustainable. Public comments highlighted concerns about the tax burden on residents, the use of fund balance to offset taxes, and calls for long-term fiscal planning and efficiency improvements. The board approved the proposed budget pending delegation approval, acknowledging the revenue challenges rather than spending issues and committing to a multi-year approach to stabilize finances.