Forsyth County Faces Proposed Tax Increase Amid Budget Deliberations
Residents of Forsyth County may soon experience a modest rise in property taxes, as local officials put forward a new budget plan. Unveiled by County Manager Shontell Robinson, the proposal suggests a 1.68-cent increase in the property tax rate, translating to an approximate $45 annual increase for homeowners with median-priced properties.
This recommendation follows a recent countywide property revaluation that already resulted in higher tax bills for many residents. According to Robinson, the county is grappling with limited financial options due to sluggish revenue growth and diminished state funding.
“This recommendation is not driven by new programs or major service expansions,” Robinson explained. “It is primarily focused on maintaining current service levels and addressing rising operational costs.”
The largest portion of the county’s expenses is allocated to education, with $192 million earmarked for this sector. However, the proposed budget does not meet the full funding request made by Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. The school district had requested additional funds to address various needs, such as hiring more teachers for exceptional children.
The budget proposal remains under review, with commissioners expected to evaluate it over the coming weeks. A decision could be reached by early June, following a public hearing scheduled for May 19.
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