Kinston council adopts FY2026–27 budget, cuts property tax rate to $0.69

The Kinston City Council unanimously approved the FY2026–27 Annual Budget Ordinance on June 16, setting the property tax rate at $0.69 per $100 of assessed value, a 4‑cent reduction from the prior rate. Interim City Manager Ralph Clark summarized a revised budget that restored $42,000 to Parks and Recreation, added $55,800 for street resurfacing, and included modest travel and training increases for the mayor and council.

Interim City Manager Ralph Clark noted the budget reflects prior public hearing input and retained current utility fees "with no changes to water, sewer, electricity, stormwater fees, solid waste, or garbage collection fees." Councilmember Antonio Hardy praised the funding restoration for parks and social services, saying, "Our kids are our future," and mayoral support focused on community unity: Mayor Kareem S. Moore said, "If you wanna go fast, go by yourself. If you wanna go far, take somebody with you. With a team like this, we can go far together." The motion to approve the ordinance was made by Councilmember Les Lipford, seconded by Councilmember Hardy, and carried unanimously.

Why it matters: the lower tax rate is intended to provide immediate relief to taxpayers after last year’s increase while preserving targeted investments in parks, street maintenance, and public safety. The budget also notes possible electric supplier rate increases in October and the following spring that staff will monitor before deciding whether to pass costs to customers.