Charleston council approves tentative $1.188 million FY2027 budget, signals more road work

Charleston — The Charleston Town Council on May 7 approved a tentative fiscal year 2027 budget projecting about $1.188 million in expenditures, with a focus on increased road work and a few planned projects in the coming year. Council Member Don Sant moved to accept the tentative budget; Michael Bauer seconded and a roll-call vote was unanimous.

The council and staff told residents the figure reflects year-to-date variances: some line items are overspent while others are underspent, requiring adjustments before the final budget is adopted. Mayor Doug Clements said the town will need to shift resources to accommodate more road projects next year while working with the town accountant to balance the numbers.

The decision places roads and related infrastructure among the council’s near-term priorities, with staff directed to identify specific project needs and funding adjustments during the upcoming budget process. The tentative approval allows the town to meet statutory notice and hearing timelines that precede final budget adoption.

No tax-rate changes or specific project contracts were finalized at the meeting. The council took the vote to accept the tentative budget so the town may proceed with required public-notice steps toward formal adoption later in the fiscal cycle.