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Beaufort County adopts FY 2026–27 budget after narrow votes on amendments
Summary
Council approved the county and school budgets for FY 2026–27, including a county budget ordinance that passed by roll call 9–2; an amendment to add $50,000 to Keep Beaufort County Beautiful failed amid concerns over timing and funding sources.
Beaufort County Council adopted the county’s fiscal year 2026–27 budget on June 22 after debate over line items and a late amendment.
Finance staff reviewed changes since second reading, including adjustments to overtime, human-services funding and fleet purchases. Councilman Passamont proposed a $50,000 increase to the Keep Beaufort County Beautiful program to cover additional plantings, signage and implementation for a new plastic-bag ordinance. Council members questioned the timing and source of the funds; one member said the program’s implementation timetable meant the expense could wait. The amendment failed (four in favor, five opposed).
Council then proceeded to a roll-call vote on Ordinance 20-26/29, the county appropriation ordinance. After further debate and comments about deferred maintenance and service priorities, the ordinance passed on roll call 9–2.
The school tax ordinance for the same fiscal year was also taken up and approved unanimously earlier in the meeting; school finance representatives were present to answer questions during the public hearing.
What happens next: The adopted budget becomes effective as specified in the ordinance and staff will implement appropriations. Council members who opposed parts of the budget said they will continue to press for targeted capital projects and oversight during the fiscal year.
