Town Manager Andy presents recommended FY 2026–27 budget for Nags Head; no tax‑rate increase proposed

Town Manager Andy presented the Nags Head Town Board with the recommended fiscal year 2026–27 budget on May 8, proposing no tax‑rate increase for the coming year while flagging large capital costs, including a roughly $38 million beach nourishment project that drives much of the increase from last year.

The budget, described in the presentation as approximately $35 million for the general fund, funds a mix of capital projects, equipment replacements and personnel adjustments. Andy said staff will hold a workshop on the recommended budget on May 20 and a public hearing on June 3 before the board considers adoption.

Why it matters: Staff and board members said the beach nourishment debt service is the primary factor increasing the town’s budget compared with last year, and that one‑time funding sources used to close the current gap are not sustainable—prompting staff to model a potential tax adjustment in 2028.

In his overview, Andy summarized the budget’s priorities as protecting the natural environment, guiding responsible development, supporting a sustainable economy and maintaining efficient government services. He highlighted several major capital items in the recommended plan: a multiuse path linking the West Side of U.S. 158 and…