Durham commissioners unanimously oppose proposals to limit county property tax authority
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Summary
On April 13, 2026, Durham County commissioners voted unanimously to adopt a resolution opposing any constitutional or statutory change that would cap, freeze, or otherwise restrict county property tax authority, arguing that property taxes fund essential services; staff highlighted community outreach and budget transparency.
The Durham County Board of Commissioners on April 13 adopted a resolution formally opposing proposed modifications that would cap, freeze, or otherwise limit county property tax authority.
Commissioner Wendy Jacobs moved the resolution and Vice Chair Alom seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
In presenting the background, County Manager Hager and staff noted that the county had engaged in more than 60 community conversations during the reappraisal and budget processes and described tools for public engagement, including an online budget portal. "Over the past year plus ... we've had over 60 community conversations, about property taxes, how they're set, and also with the reappraisal process," Hager said, describing the outreach behind the board's materials.
Commissioner Jacobs stressed the practical impact of local revenue: "Seventy percent of our, Durham County property tax revenue is spent directly on education, public safety, and health and human services," she said, and added that only about 18% of the county's revenues come from outside sources. Jacobs and other commissioners said those facts underpinned the urgency of opposing measures that would reduce local flexibility to fund mandated services.
The board cited risks that restricting property tax authority could reduce fiscal flexibility, delay infrastructure investment, increase fees, and have inequitable consequences for residents. The adopted resolution specifically opposes any constitutional amendment that would restrict or cap county property tax authority; commissioners said the action aligned with guidance from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners and collaborations with other counties.
The board's vote on April 13 was unanimous. The resolution is a formal statement of policy; it does not change county tax rates or levy rules but expresses the board's position and will be shared with state-level policymakers and county partners.
