Harnett County Board approves budget to enhance services and support local programs

Harnett County officials have outlined a comprehensive budget plan for the upcoming fiscal year during the Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting held on May 5, 2025. The proposed budget includes significant allocations aimed at enhancing community services and supporting local initiatives.

Key highlights from the budget proposal include funding for 22 reclassifications within Harnett Regional Water and solid waste departments, reflecting changes in employee duties and certifications. Additionally, the budget allocates an extra $15 per day for election workers, ensuring adequate support for upcoming elections.

The county is also set to continue its commitment to local businesses with two small business grants of $5,000 each, facilitated through the Small Business Development Center at Central Carolina Community College. This initiative aims to bolster economic growth and support entrepreneurship in the region.

In a move to enhance community engagement, the budget includes $40,000 to support a baseball tournament in Dunn, expected to attract significant tourism to the area. Furthermore, new programs for children at the public library are planned, emphasizing the county's focus on youth development.

County Manager Mr. Trapp proposed a rapid process improvement program to streamline departmental tasks, aiming for greater efficiency in service delivery. He expressed confidence in the budget's ability to meet the county's operational needs while maintaining quality services across various departments.

The budget details will be further discussed in upcoming meetings, with a public hearing scheduled for May 19. Final approval is anticipated on June 16, 2025. The collaborative efforts of county staff, community partners, and department directors were acknowledged as instrumental in shaping this budget.

In addition to budget discussions, the meeting announced a town hall scheduled for May 7 at Highland Middle School, providing residents an opportunity to engage with county leadership. A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the first Recovery Alive home is also set for May 8, marking a significant step in community recovery efforts.

The meeting concluded with unanimous approval of budget amendments and a request to continue purchasing two sole-sourced chemicals for Harnett Regional Water, ensuring the county's operational needs are met efficiently.