Mitchell County’s proposed budget is finalized for the fiscal year 2023-24, totaling $24,538,302 to meet the projected needs of the county while keeping the property tax rate of 56 cents per $100 of valuation intact from the previous year.
The budget reflects a projected overall expense increase of 3.26%. Consumer price index data shows an approximate 6.5% nationwide inflation rate since the last fiscal year.
“This is in line with the board of commissioners’ desire to fiscally manage our expenditures,” said Allen Cook, county manager.
Revenues from Article 39 sales tax are budgeted at an 8.65% increase, which Cook said is in line with trending data.
Most county departments are budgeted in line with previous annual averages. Outside agencies were budgeted with room for projected growth and special needs.
Capital expenses (maintenance, building improvements, equipment, vehicle replacements, technology) were budgeted at fair market estimates.
The county also factored in state retirement and property and liability insurance rate hikes.
Human services and public safety make up half the expenditures, clocking in at 25% each. Education represents 18% of the budget, general government 13% and environmental protection 7%. The rest of the budget funds economic and physical development, transportation, culture and recreation and capital outlay with some funds earmarked for revaluation, contingency and fund balance reserves.
The Mitchell County Board of Commissioners worked in concert with Mavis Parsley, finance officer, to finalize the budget over the past several weeks. Cook thanked them for their dedication.
The draft budget is available for review at the County Administration Building in Bakersville during regular business hours. A public hearing is set for June 5 during the regular meeting of the commissioners at 7 p.m. A vote to adopt the budget will follow.
“Whether it be an internal county department or a service provider for the county, this board expects accountability and responsibility,” Cook said. “The commission board unanimously agrees that the taxpayers of Mitchell County deserve a balanced budget that shows responsible use of our citizens’ hard-earned money.”