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Durham County staff explain funding for New Hope Fire Department, note tax-rate nuance
Summary
Assistant county manager Duane Brinson told commissioners that New Hope Fire Department is physically in Orange County but serves parts of Durham County; staff said a recommended tax rate of 6.41¢ is above the revenue-neutral rate and will generate additional revenue next fiscal year to support service.
The board discussed a budget ordinance amendment that would appropriate $10,000 from the New Hope Fire Tax District fund balance to pay for updated computer equipment.
Duane Brinson, assistant county manager, explained the relationship between the county and New Hope Fire Department, saying the department is located in Orange County but provides service to areas of Durham County.
"New Hope Fire Department is located in Orange County physically, but they service an area within Durham County," Brinson said, and he described the recommended tax rate of 6.41¢ as 1.5 cents above the revenue-neutral rate. Brinson told the board that, as proposed, the department would receive a net increase of one and a half cents next year and that percentage increase is the highest among volunteer fire departments he reviewed.
Commissioners sought clarity about the rate's effect on services and noted the county routinely handles budget amendments during the fiscal year; staff said they would continue to work with New Hope to ensure service continuity and responsible tax impacts for residents.
