Hope Mills adopts $22 million 2025–26 budget in 3–2 vote

The Town of Hope Mills Board of Commissioners approved a $22 million operating budget for fiscal year 2025–26 in a 3–2 vote on June 16, adopting the ordinance and corresponding fee schedule despite questions about revaluation impacts and revenue shortfalls.

Town Manager Chancellor McGlaughlin presented the final budget and summarized changes made during multiple workshops, telling the board the administration had “answered just about every question” raised during the process and would publish a detailed press release and list of cuts and additions.

Commissioners discussed how the recent property revaluation affected revenue needs. Board members noted that average residential values rose substantially this cycle and that, absent revaluation, the town would have faced a larger tax increase. Opponents said revaluation creates distributional effects among property owners that merit further explanation.

Mayor moved to adopt the ordinance; the motion was seconded and passed with three votes in favor and two opposed. Manager McGlaughlin said the approved budget includes provisions to cover previously discussed shortfalls and that the document will be posted on the town website.

Votes at a glance • Budget ordinance, FY2025–26: approved, 3–2. • Budget amendments (Nos. 33–35): approved (covering police overtime and equipment, parks and recreation part‑time salaries, and final year‑end adjustments).

What happens next Staff will publish a summary of what was cut and what was added, and the town manager said staff will continue to pursue county reimbursements tied to school resource officer funding and vehicle support.

No litigation or implementation deadlines were set during the meeting; the budget takes effect as adopted by ordinance.