Smithfield reviews FY 2026‑27 proposed budget; public hearing set for June 2

Interim finance staff presented the town’s proposed FY 2026‑27 budget and fee schedule to the council, summarizing fund totals, department allocations and capital priorities in advance of a statutory public hearing on June 2.

Highlights included a proposed general‑fund tax rate to remain at $0.45, a total proposed general‑fund contingency and departmental allocations (police and fire remain the largest components), and several capital priorities across departments such as software for board books and planning (IWORK), equipment for public safety, and continued street resurfacing funded through Powell Bill and fund balance. Staff noted a modest overall budget increase in some enterprise funds and emphasized ongoing work on electric and water/sewer rate studies; Johnston County wholesale rate increases were also flagged as a fiscal consideration for later in the year.

Council members discussed items including digital voting/board‑book functionality, use of fund balance for one‑time capital expenses, and options to direct water improvements toward economic development. A public hearing on the budget and fee schedule was scheduled for June 2; the council did not adopt the budget at this meeting.