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2026 Session 1: Proposed Fiscal Budget
Published: Jun 9, 2026
City Council Reviews Fund Reserves and Proposed Budget Allocations
The city council is discussing fund reserve trends and the proposed budget. The general fund balance has fluctuated, with a high of $8.9 million in 2020, dropping to $5.7 million in 2015 and $4.4 million in 2024, but projected to be $9.7 million in 2026. The PAL fund also shows fluctuations. The water fund balance is projected to decrease from $5.6 million in 2024 to $3.9 million in 2026, while the sewer fund balance is projected to decrease from $4.4 million in 2024 to $2.3 million in 2026. The budget aims to fund essential services and capital projects, such as new vehicles and playground equipment, by utilizing fund balances and grants, rather than solely relying on tax increases. A significant portion of general fund expenditures is allocated to personnel (60%), operations (33%), and capital outlay (7%). Revenue largely comes from state shared sources, taxes, and fees.
City Secures Over $17 Million in Grants for Infrastructure and Community Projects
The city has secured over $17 million in active grants and is awaiting a $6 million grant for the Marta Canal project. These grants are specifically allocated for projects within the city, such as infrastructure improvements, public safety, recreation, and water/sewer/storm water projects, and cannot be used to reduce taxes. The Parks and Recreation department has completed its master plan, enabling applications for additional grants. The city aggressively pursues available grants to alleviate the financial burden on taxpayers.
City of Havlock Proposes Budget with Tax and Fee Increases for Fiscal Year 25-26
The city is proposing a budget for fiscal year 25-26, which includes a three-cent tax increase, a 3.3% increase in permit fees, and increases in enterprise fund rates for water (15%), sewer (20%), solid waste (7.5%), and the tourist and event center (10%). The general fund tax rate is currently 72 cents, with an ad valorem tax base of $1 billion. The proposed budget reflects a reduction from an initial six-cent tax increase due to board adjustments and the use of general funds. Personnel costs are addressed with a 3.3% cost of living adjustment (COLA) and 1.7% longevity increase. Several cost increases are noted, including retirement (14.1%) and property insurance (10%). A contingency fund of $50,000 was removed to avoid further tax increases.
Personnel Costs and Compensation Policies Highlighted Amidst Budget Discussions
The city's personnel costs, particularly within the general fund, represent 60% of its budget, with an additional 33% for operations and 7% for capital outlay. The general fund covers essential services like police, fire, and EMS. The discussion touches upon employee compensation, including a 3.3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) and a 1.7% longevity increase, intended to keep pace with inflation and retain staff in a competitive market. Starting salaries for police officers are noted as being lower than neighboring municipalities, with Havlock police officers earning approximately $10,000 less than those in Morehead. The city emphasizes that its employee count is lean compared to similar municipalities, and compensation is designed to recruit and retain qualified personnel.
Storm Water Fees Fund City-Wide Drainage Maintenance and Improvement Projects
The storm water fee of $4 per household is dedicated to storm water management efforts across the city. These funds support public works teams in performing storm water work, including cleaning ditches, maintaining general infrastructure, and undertaking specific large projects. The fee allows for a more efficient and surgical approach to utilizing funds compared to using general tax dollars. The city is also a KMA county and must adhere to waterfront county rules, which led to the proactive implementation of a storm water plan and fee. While not all storm water issues may be immediately visible on every property, the funds contribute to the overall drainage system and protect natural estuaries. The city's storm water plan is mandated, and the fee helps ensure compliance and effectiveness.
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