Commissioners debate budget cuts to avoid 1.3% tax increase in Mecklenburg County

The Board of Commissioners in Matthews, Union County, convened on June 2, 2025, for a budget workshop aimed at addressing the proposed budget and the potential for a property tax increase. The meeting opened with a call for dialogue among commissioners to explore ways to balance the budget without implementing a 1.3% tax increase, as emphasized by one commissioner who expressed a desire to minimize expenditures while maintaining essential services.

The discussion quickly turned to the bond issue, which was identified as a significant factor contributing to the proposed tax increase. One commissioner noted that the board had previously agreed to limit any tax increase to 1.3 cents, indicating that the current budget discussions were not unexpected. Questions arose regarding specific budget cuts, particularly within the Parks and Recreation department, where a proposed 10% reduction was suggested. The rationale behind this proposal was to alleviate some of the financial burden associated with debt service costs related to the bond.

Commissioners engaged in a detailed examination of potential cuts within the Parks and Recreation budget, focusing on services and activities rather than personnel reductions. The aim was to identify areas where savings could be achieved without compromising the quality of services provided to the community. The conversation highlighted the importance of considering the broader financial context faced by taxpayers in Matthews and Mecklenburg County.

As the meeting progressed, concerns were raised about the lack of coordination with other governing bodies, such as the county commission and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) board, regarding tax rates and budget decisions. One commissioner pointed out that decisions made by these entities often did not take into account the tax implications for Matthews residents, underscoring the need for a more collaborative approach to budgeting.

The town manager was invited to provide insights on the viability of the proposed budget adjustments, and the discussion continued with a focus on ensuring clarity regarding funding sources and their impact on the tax rate. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore budgetary options that would allow the board to fulfill its responsibilities while minimizing the financial burden on taxpayers.

Overall, the workshop underscored the board's dedication to finding a balanced approach to budgeting, with an emphasis on fiscal responsibility and community impact. The next steps will involve continued discussions and evaluations of the proposed budget as the board seeks to finalize a plan that meets the needs of Matthews residents without increasing taxes.