New Hanover County Commissioners Agenda Review & Budget Work Session - April 30, 2026

The New Hanover County Commissioners held an agenda review and budget work session on April 30, 2026, focusing extensively on the fiscal year 2027 budget. Key procurement-related discussions included funding allocations for fire services, stormwater, environmental management, and capital improvement projects such as a $2 million replacement fire engine and landfill infrastructure upgrades. The board reviewed two budget scenarios: a 30.6¢ tax rate with no increase utilizing fund balance and a 32.6¢ tax rate with a 2¢ increase. The session included detailed deliberations on balancing recurring and one-time expenses, the use of the revenue stabilization fund, and the impact of tax rate decisions on county services and residents. The commissioners also discussed funding for schools, pre-K programs, the district attorney, and economic development, with a consensus to present a recommended budget at the May 18 public hearing. No contract awards or vendor selections were reported, but capital projects and budget allocations were central to the meeting.