Swain County adopts 2025–26 budget while dispute over Tuckasegee fire funding remains unresolved

Swain County commissioners approved the county—s 2025—26 budget at their June meeting while leaving unresolved a request from the Town of Bryson City for increased funding of fire protection in the Tuckasegee District.

The adopted budget includes a special-appropriation line of $125,000 for the town—s fire services. Bryson City officials had submitted and voted on an internal agreement requesting $225,000; that higher figure remains unsigned by the county and was the focus of extended discussion.

Why it matters: the funding level affects coverage in the Tuckasegee District, insurance-class ratings for some properties, and whether Bryson City will expand to 24/7 staffing at its station. Commissioners discussed possible operational and legal effects if the town and county do not reach agreement ahead of the July 1 start of the fiscal year.

More details: county staff explained that the county—s budget ordinance currently contains $125,000 for the town—s special appropriation; Bryson City approved a separate document asking for $225,000 and for broader 24/7 coverage. County leaders said the town—s signed document would require the county to amend its ordinance if the county agreed to the larger amount. Commissioners noted that if the county and town did not finalize a mutual agreement, the county could handle any change by adopting a mid-year budget amendment after July 1. The board also discussed whether the town—s action could be enforced immediately; legal counsel advised that the town—s vote alone would not change the county—s ordinance and that a signed, mutually executed agreement would be needed.

Commissioners pressed for more-specified terms, including whether the town—s agreement contains a termination clause and how much advanced notice the town must give before changing coverage; multiple commissioners referenced a 90-day notice provision appearing in prior versions of the parties— arrangements. County staff said they will continue negotiating with Bryson City and work with counsel to clarify termination and notice language.

What the county decided: despite the dispute, the board voted to adopt the 2025—26 budget as presented, so the county—s fiscal year can begin July 1 with the currently budgeted amounts. Commissioners said they will continue talks with Bryson City and can revisit the county—s appropriation through a budget amendment if a new agreement is executed.

Context and next steps: commissioners, staff and the county attorney agreed to seek clarity on the town—s signed request and the timing of any change in coverage. Staff said they would ask Bryson City officials to reconcile the two figures or accept the county—s current appropriation; if the town and county reach agreement after July 1, the board can consider a budget amendment to increase the appropriation.