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Oak Island presents balanced FY2026-27 budget with no tax increase; modest fee adjustments proposed
Summary
Town staff presented a recommended FY2026-27 budget balanced with no tax-rate increase, targeting fee adjustments (wastewater, yard-debris collection), capital projects (street paving, greenway path, fire-station renovations) and limited one-time fund-balance uses. Public hearing set for May 26 and final vote June 9.
Town finance staff presented the recommended FY 2026–27 budget to the Oak Island Town Council on May 12, describing a balanced proposal that would not raise the property tax rate while including targeted fee adjustments and a multi-year capital program.
Key numbers presented included a general-fund total of $25,813,000 and a recommendation to use $385,000 in one-time fund balance for capital outlays. Staff proposed an increase in wastewater rates (stated as 96 cents per 1,000 gallons, described in presentation as producing a $3.84 change to the base charge), and an increase in solid-waste yard-debris collection of $2.15 to $5.65 per month. Presenters also said the town's general-fund balance remains healthy and in compliance with NCGS 159-8 and the town's own 40% policy minimum.
The recommended budget funds a range of capital projects: $1 million for street paving, $1 million allocated for a greenway/bike path on Yacht Drive, $300,500 for Fire Station One renovation planning and work, $750,000 for above-ground fuel tanks, and four stormwater projects tied to identified priority streets. Personnel recommendations included a potential merit pool (up to 3%), a 2% COLA for full-time employees, and targeted market adjustments for police and fire positions.
Town staff emphasized that the budget is the result of a multi-month process of workshops and stakeholder sessions; they said the proposal will be posted online and available to the public, with a second public hearing scheduled for May 26 and a final council vote expected June 9.
What residents asked and staff answered: Council members asked about the solid-waste contract (GFL) and were told there is no increase this year; the presenters said the wastewater increase reflects higher county treatment charges. Council members also discussed timing for review and how the budget ties to strategic-plan completion targets.
Speakers quoted (first reference with role): Helen (Finance Director): "The balance the budget is balanced with no tax increase at the moment."
