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Halifax County keeps tax rate at $0.50, adopts FY2027 budget after divided vote
Summary
The Halifax County Board of Supervisors voted 5-3 on June 1 to maintain the real estate tax at $0.50 (above the equalized $0.48) and to adopt the FY2027 budget and appropriations; several supervisors raised concerns about findings in a preliminary forensic audit but the board said operations require a budget.
The Halifax County Board of Supervisors voted 5-3 on June 1 to maintain the real estate tax rate at $0.50 for 2026 — higher than an equalized rate of roughly $0.48 — and to adopt the county’s FY2027 budget and appropriation resolution.
Finance staff member John Montoro presented Resolution 2026-20 on tax rates and explained that 2026 was a reassessment year; because assessed values changed, maintaining the $0.50 rate will slightly increase tax bills despite the unchanged rate. Supervisor Keith McDowell urged setting the rate to $0.48 to offset reassessment effects; Vice Chair Robbie Smart and others said the advertised rate had been $0.50. In a roll-call vote the resolution passed 5-3 (No: Supervisors Pete Riddle, Keith McDowell and Bryant Claiborne).
The board then considered Resolution 2026-21 to adopt and appropriate the FY2027 budget. Montoro and County Administrator Ron Brade summarized budget highlights: $1,200 in professional development per employee, full funding for a new school athletic facility with an associated $16 million line item, nearly $2 million for demolition of the former high school, $870,000 for the bus replacement program, and roughly $1.5 million in remaining ARPA funds that must be spent by Dec. 31, 2026. The budget also funds new and reclassified positions in administration, accounting, planning, public safety, and libraries.
Supervisor Bryant Claiborne said deficiencies and discrepancies flagged during a preliminary forensic audit warranted further investigation before adoption; Claiborne said he was not alleging money was missing but expressed concern about the county’s financial condition and called for additional review. Vice Chair Smart and others said the Finance Committee had reviewed alleged issues and had not found missing funds; they argued the county must adopt a budget to continue operations. After discussion the appropriations resolution passed 5-3 (Riddle, McDowell, Claiborne No).
County Administrator Brade said the budget balances identified operational needs and includes investments in employee development and capital projects; he thanked staff who helped prepare the budget. The board scheduled continued business for a joint meeting with the Planning Commission on June 16.
