Board of Commissioners Public Hearing - June 11, 2026

The Camden County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on June 11, 2026, primarily focused on the proposed 2027 budget. The presentation detailed a proposed budget with projected revenues of $48 million and expenditures of $51 million, requiring a $2.4 million use of fund balance to balance. Key budget items included a performance-based employee pay increase, moving the coroner position to full-time, a $500,000 increase for the Joint Development Authority (JDA) per an existing MOU, capital improvements funding of $1.7 million, and supplemental funding for E-911 and EMS. Public comments expressed strong concerns about the JDA's accountability and effectiveness, questioning the value of the $500,000 increase and the overall return on investment from the JDA's activities. Additional concerns were raised about potential tax increases, infrastructure impacts from a proposed modern asphalt plant, and the county's ability to manage growth and school system demands. No formal votes on budget approval or spending were recorded during the hearing, but the discussion highlighted community apprehension about fiscal management and economic development strategies.