Brunswick County Budget Proposed with No Tax Increase and Employee Pay Adjustments

The Brunswick County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on May 19, 2025, where key discussions centered on the county's budget and funding for upcoming projects. The meeting highlighted the county's financial strategies and the importance of maintaining fiscal responsibility amid growing service demands.

During the meeting, officials confirmed that the county has sufficient reserves to fund proposed projects, ensuring that financial resources are available for necessary developments. The discussion also touched on the current state of dredging operations, noting that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has limited operational dredges, which could impact local projects.

Budget discussions were a significant focus, with County Manager Stone presenting a budget that largely mirrors the previous proposal discussed two weeks prior. He emphasized that the budget is balanced at the current tax rate of 0.342, thanks to adjustments made based on feedback from commissioners. Stone acknowledged the challenges posed by population growth and the increasing demand for services, suggesting that maintaining the current tax rate may become difficult in the future.

The budget includes a 3% market adjustment for employees meeting expectations, with merit increases ranging from 1.75% to 3.75% based on performance evaluations. This approach aims to enhance employee retention and recruitment while ensuring that the county can continue to provide high-quality services.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to fiscal prudence while addressing the needs of its growing population. The board's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping Brunswick County's financial landscape in the coming years.