Rocky Mountain City Council debates budget cuts and revenue strategies for $5M deficit

Rocky Mount city officials are grappling with a significant budget shortfall, as discussions during the Special Called Committee of the Whole meeting on May 29 revealed a pressing need to address a $5 million deficit. Council members emphasized the importance of financial health for the city, with calls for a collaborative effort to identify potential savings and revenue sources.

Councilman Daniels highlighted the necessity of increasing the property tax collection rate, which has dropped to 97.5%. He urged the council to explore all avenues for revenue, including a detailed analysis of code enforcement fines and travel expenses. Daniels proposed a goal of finding at least $600,000 in savings, stressing that the city must maintain the current property tax rate to alleviate the financial burden on residents.

The discussion also touched on the city’s travel budget, with suggestions to limit travel for staff to essential certifications and to encourage carpooling for conferences. Council members acknowledged the need for strategic spending, while also recognizing the value of attending external events for innovation and professional development.

City Manager Ken Tia assured the council that staff would focus on necessary travel and explore options for vehicle sharing to reduce costs. The council is committed to balancing the budget responsibly, with plans to review the general fund and enterprise funds in upcoming meetings.

As the city navigates these financial challenges, officials are determined to work collaboratively to restore the fund balance and ensure the long-term fiscal stability of Rocky Mount. The next steps will involve further analysis and discussions to refine the budget before the July 1 deadline.