County Board of Commissioners Begins FY27 Budget Workshops to Guide County Priorities
The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners held a Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) Budget Workshop on Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Judge E. Maurice Braswell Cumberland County Courthouse, beginning the Board’s review and discussion of priorities that will guide development of the FY27 recommended budget.
The workshop was designed to provide policy direction and guidance to staff as development of the FY27 recommended budget begins.
Current Financial Position
County Manager Clarence Grier, along with Assistant County Manager and Chief Budget and Performance Officer Deborah Shaw, presented an overview of the County’s current financial position, including:
- FY26 year-to-date financial snapshot
- Known commitments and obligations carrying into FY27
- Revenue trend highlights
The Board discussed budget priorities and alignment of budget development with its strategic goals, including:
- Top priorities and policy goals for FY27
- Service areas that may require increased investment
- Areas where efficiencies or reductions could be explored
- Potential new initiatives for evaluation, including libraries, public safety, community impact funding, facility maintenance and ADA access
The Board provided direction on key initiatives, including:
- Water and sewer infrastructure expansion
- School construction and operations
- Unhoused Support Center
- Crown Complex redevelopment
- Regional Aquatic Center
- Mental Health Diversion Center
- 911 consolidation
- Parks and recreation
- County facilities and parking
- Future planning opportunities for the Gillespie Street lot
The Board discussed revenue strategies, including:
- Potential property tax rate adjustments
- Consideration of new or adjusted fees
- Use of fund balance and reserve targets
- Debt capacity and long-term funding models
The Board reviewed workforce considerations, including:
- Cost-of-living or market adjustments
- Staffing growth
- Benefits cost increases
- Vacancy rates
The Board discussed funding approaches for partner organizations and community programs, including:
- Overall levels of outside agency funding
- Community funding audits
The Board outlined expectations for the FY27 budget development process, including:
- Additional budget workshops
- Public engagement opportunities
On May 21, the County Manager will present his recommended budget to the Board of Commissioners. Budget workshop and public hearing dates will be determined at the March 16 Board of Commissioners meeting.
Public Access and Participation
All Budget Workshops will be livestreamed on the County’s website at cumberlandcountync.gov, YouTube Channel and on CCNCTV Spectrum Channel 5.
For more information about Cumberland County and upcoming meetings, visit cumberlandcountync.gov or follow the County on social media at CCNCGov.
Cumberland County NC Government
-
Diane Rice Communications Director
- February 27, 2026
- (910) 438-4025
- Send Email
