State budget aims to deliver more for less

Even though the process by which legislative changes to North Carolina’s $23 billion 2018-19 budget were made — shutting out Democrats by limiting floor debate and skipping right to the yea-or-nay vote — that budget now sits on Gov. Roy Cooper’s desk.

Franklin proposes 4-cent tax increase

The Franklin Town Council is recommending a 4-cent property tax increase this year in order to cover its growing expenses and to avoid dipping into its fund balance. 

A penny for your thoughts: Fee increases keep Waynesville taxes down

The Town of Waynesville is about to embark on year two of a more conservative budget mindset; the days of 7 percent annual growth are gone, but the days of rising costs are not. 

A penny for your thoughts: Fee increases keep Waynesville taxes down

The Town of Waynesville is about to embark on year two of a more conservative budget mindset; the days of 7 percent annual growth are gone, but the days of rising costs are not. 

Macon budget battles increasing costs

Macon County’s proposed budget for 2018-19 does not include a tax increase despite increasing costs and capital needs throughout the county. 

Macon Schools request $3.2 million for capital projects

Between Macon County Schools and Southwestern Community College, education expenses make up 18 percent of the county’s budget. 

Steady growth: Maggie budget looks strong

With no proposed tax increase, slightly lower spending and a healthy fund balance, the Town of Maggie Valley’s proposed FY 2018-19 budget appears to be one of the strongest in the area. 

Canton budget holds the line on taxes

While Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers has seen several budgets during his previous stint as an alderman, he appears to be pleased with his first as Mayor. 

Swain mulls putting sales tax back on ballot

As they prepare for the annual budgeting process, Swain County commissioners are considering placing a quarter-cent sales tax increase on the November ballot. 

Town of Franklin releases preliminary budget

With the 2018-19 preliminary budget in hand, Franklin Town Council will have a week to review it before the board’s May 15 budget workshop. 

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