Harnett County approves near-$220 million FY27 budget; $100,000 nonprofit allocation moved to contingency

The Harnett County Board of Commissioners approved the countys updated recommended fiscal year 2027 budget at a special call meeting on June 30, adopting a package built on estimated 2022 property values that staff said produces a recommended budget just under $220 million.

Staff presented the budget framework, noting it uses estimated 2022 schedule-of-values data and includes contingency funds "to cover any potential reversion related costs." The presenter warned that "If Senate Bill 474 passes after July 1, we still have the opportunity to amend both the tax rate and the budget ordinance," and recommended the board approve the package now and adjust levy rates next week if state action requires it. (Staff cited General Statute 159-15 as the countys statutory authority to modify the tax rate and adjust the budget.)

The recommended package includes identified allocations and changes: $6 million for Harnett County Schools, $6 million for future schools, $100,000 for nonprofit support (moved to contingency by the board), $500,000 for weapons-detection systems, added positions in the general fund and the Harnett Regional Water program, and an income-maintenance lead worker position tied to family-and-children Medicaid work. Staff said the 75-cent rate based on the estimated values produces the near-$220 million total and uses almost $3.9 million from fund balance.

Board members discussed fire-district tax rates, noting five districts had requested increases. Staff pointed to a table in the draft budget ordinance showing each districts current and requested FY27 rates and the resulting revenue changes, and again cited General Statute 159-15 for the countys authority to act. Board members agreed they could approve the requested rates now and, if SB 474 is signed, revert to prior rates when they meet next week.

Commissioners debated adding the nonprofit allocation to this budget year. Some argued the county should reserve the funding because residents need assistance; others said it was imprudent to obligate funds immediately. The board resolved to place the $100,000 nonprofit line in contingency so the funds are available later only if the board expressly authorizes their use.

Following discussion the chair called for a motion; a commissioner moved to approve the budget as discussed with the nonprofit line moved to contingency and a second was made. The chair called the voice vote and said, "All in favor say I." The chair then announced the budget passed.

Staff said the county will post the updated budget ordinance on the county website and make it available to the public by the end of the next day, and the board will revisit and, if necessary, change the levy rate at a scheduled meeting next Monday after any state action on SB 474.

What happens next: The board approved the ordinance as presented with the contingency change for nonprofit funding; it scheduled a follow-up meeting to enact any statutory-driven levy adjustments if Senate Bill 474 is signed by the governor.