The Nash County Board of Commissioners held a pivotal meeting on June 5, 2025, focusing on the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget, which totals $146.4 million. The budget aims to address key priorities, including employee wages, capital projects, and technology upgrades, while maintaining a conservative spending approach.

County Manager's presentation highlighted a 2.1% increase in the general fund budget, amounting to $128.1 million. This budget reflects a commitment to employee welfare, proposing a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment and the introduction of a merit pay system for staff. The budget also includes funding for eight new positions across various departments, emphasizing the county's focus on enhancing public safety and service delivery.

Public input during the meeting revealed significant concerns from school staff regarding pay disparities. Several speakers, including bus drivers and monitors, expressed frustration over low wages compared to neighboring counties, urging the commissioners to consider additional funding for classified staff. The board discussed the possibility of a one-time $500 bonus for these employees, but ultimately decided to gather more information before making a final decision.

The meeting concluded with a consensus to have the county manager coordinate further discussions with the Nash County Public Schools regarding funding allocations and the potential for School Resource Officers in every school. The board plans to revisit the budget for adoption at their next meeting on June 16, 2025, ensuring that all voices are heard and considered in the final budgetary decisions.