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Charleston Adopts Fiscal Year 2026 Budget; Council Discusses Priorities
Summary
The town adopted Resolution 202507 to finalize the FY2026 budget after a public hearing that included concerns about cemetery maintenance, credit‑card fees and staffing; councilors said the budget reallocates funds to priorities but noted limited resources.
The Charleston Town Council adopted Resolution 202507 on June 5, approving the town’s fiscal year 2026 final budget following a public hearing and council discussion.
The council chair opened a public hearing on the amended FY2024–25 budget and the FY2025–26 final budget. Speakers praised some town services but raised concerns about cemetery upkeep, the quality of contracted mowing and how credit‑card processing fees are allocated. Staff said the budget reflects difficult tradeoffs: the town’s operating needs are funded largely within a small revenue base and the council reallocated funds from some areas to cover priorities.
During the discussion, staff and council members noted the challenge of fitting $5 million in desired projects into a roughly $600,000 annual operating budget and said the council must prioritize. Councilmembers emphasized that the budget includes funds for part‑time staffing and noted a plan to post the adopted budget for public review; one resident asked whether the budget had been emailed to citizens and was told it was available at town hall.
Action taken: The council moved, seconded and voted to adopt Resolution 202507 (fiscal year 2026). Council also approved a related amended budget for 2024–25 as presented. Council scheduled its July meeting date change (moved to early July) during the session.
What’s next: Staff will post the adopted budget and follow up on budget‑related requests, including cemetery maintenance details and staffing implementation.
