Mocksville manager proposes $11.09M budget with no tax-rate increase; public hearing set for June 2

Town manager Lee Rollins unveiled a proposed fiscal 2026 general fund budget totaling $11,087,740 and recommended holding the property tax rate steady at $0.29 per $100 of assessed value while funding several new priorities.

Rollins told the Mocksville Town Board the plan includes a $100,000 allocation to revamp the town's zoning ordinance, a proposal to create an in-house planning function, and a $513,000 withdrawal from fund balance to jump-start an annual street paving and maintenance program. "We're going to put $100,000 in this upcoming budget to revamp our zoning ordinance," Rollins said. He asked the board to consider a one-time 5% overall pay increase for employees and to begin implementing a previously approved pay study midyear.

The manager proposed an 8% increase to water and sewer rates. As presented by staff, the proposed minimum bill (the base charge all connected customers pay) would rise from $95.75 to roughly $103.41. Rollins said the change reflects capital needs and earlier rate recommendations from Raftelis, a consulting firm. "Our general fund is balanced at $11,087,740," Rollins said. "You've asked us to keep the tax rate at 29 cents per $100 value," he added.

Rollins said the budget packet includes detailed schedules and that a statutorily required public hearing will be held June 2; the board voted to set that hearing by voice vote. "We will have a budget hearing on June 2 regarding the budget," the mayor said after a motion passed.

Why it matters: The budget funds near-term infrastructure work (street paving and connecting sidewalk segments), planning and code updates meant to shape growth in Mocksville and includes a proposed utility rate increase that will affect residential and commercial customers. The board's public hearing on June 2 will be the formal opportunity for residents to comment before final adoption.

What's next: The board scheduled the June 2 public hearing; staff said full budget details will be posted on the town website and a hard copy will be available at Town Hall.

Quote: "We're going to put $100,000 in this upcoming budget to revamp our zoning ordinance," Rollins said, outlining plans to align development and design standards with the town's comprehensive plan.

Ending: The board voted to advertise and hold the required public hearing on June 2; no final vote on the budget was taken at this meeting.