06/18/2026
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Burke County Board of Commissioners Unanimously Adopts FY 2026-2027 Budget - Tax Rate Unchanged
MORGANTON, N.C. - June 15, 2026 - The Burke County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Operating Budget during its regular meeting Monday evening, approving a balanced financial plan that continues the County's strategic investments in economic development, public safety, employee retention, education, and long-term fiscal sustainability.
The budget was approved by a unanimous 5-0 vote and becomes effective July 1, 2026.
The FY 2026-2027 budget reflects the Board of Commissioners' top priorities of economic development, public safety, and fiscal sustainability, while maintaining a disciplined approach to managing taxpayer resources. The budget theme for this fiscal year, "Managing Disruptions and Staying Committed to the Plan," reflects the County's commitment to maintaining strategic focus despite significant federal and state cost shifts, inflationary pressures, and workforce challenges.
"This budget demonstrates our Board's commitment to remaining focused on the priorities that matter most to our citizens," said Chairman Jeff Brittain. "Over the past several years, we've worked diligently to strengthen county services, support our workforce, reduce the tax burden on residents, and position Burke County for long-term success. This budget continues that commitment."
The adopted budget totals approximately $120.7 million and continues funding for essential county services while making strategic investments in public safety operations, infrastructure improvements, employee recruitment and retention, education, and economic development initiatives.
Three Years of Measurable Progress
County leaders noted that the FY 2026-2027 budget builds upon significant accomplishments achieved during the past three years.
Since 2023, the Board of Commissioners has:
• Reduced the county property tax rate on two separate occasions.
• Lowered employee turnover from approximately 30 percent to 10 percent.
• Increased investments in public safety and education by more than 30 percent.
• Expanded economic development efforts to support business growth and job creation.
• Strengthened the County's financial position while maintaining responsible fiscal policies.
County Manager Brian Epley said the budget reflects the Board's commitment to executing a long-term strategy while adapting to changing circumstances.
"Successful organizations don't abandon their plans when disruptions occur-they adapt while remaining focused on their objectives," Epley said. "Over the past three years, Burke County has demonstrated that it is possible to reduce taxes, invest in employees, strengthen public safety, support education, and maintain fiscal responsibility at the same time. This budget continues that approach."
Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility
The adopted budget reflects Burke County's long-standing commitment to conservative financial management and accountability. Commissioners have worked steadfastly to maintain a 55.5-cent tax rate despite significant federal and state revenue changes - the County's operating budget is $250,000 less in 2026-2027 than it was in 2022-2023.
The County continues to maintain strong financial policies, including fund balance targets, debt management practices, capital planning initiatives, and operational efficiency efforts designed to protect taxpayers while ensuring service excellence.
Public Safety Remains a Top Priority
Public safety continues to represent the County's largest operational investment, accounting for approximately one-third of the General Fund budget.
Over the past year, Burke County has continued to improve emergency response capabilities through investments in staffing, training, technology, and operational excellence. These efforts have contributed to reduced EMS response times, improved cardiac survival outcomes, expanded fire prevention activities, enhanced staffing stability, and improved emergency communications performance.
The FY 2026-2027 Budget continues support for personnel, equipment replacement, communications technology, emergency preparedness, and public safety operations across the county.
Prioritization of County Employees
The adopted budget also reinforces the Board's commitment to maintaining Burke County as an employer of choice.
Funding is included to support employee compensation, market competitiveness, and workforce retention initiatives. County leaders recognize that attracting and retaining talented employees is essential to delivering high-quality services and maintaining organizational excellence.
The County's reduction in employee turnover from 30 percent to 10 percent over the past three years reflects the success of these efforts and the Board's commitment to investing in its workforce.
Supporting Economic Growth and Fiscal Sustainability
Economic development remains the Board's highest strategic priority and a key component of the County's long-term financial sustainability strategy.
The adopted budget supports infrastructure improvements, workforce development partnerships, site readiness initiatives, and efforts to attract new private investment. County leaders believe continued economic growth is critical to expanding the tax base, creating employment opportunities, and reducing future pressure on taxpayers.
At the same time, the budget maintains the County's commitment to sound financial management through strong fund balance policies, responsible debt practices, long-range capital planning, and operational efficiencies.
"As we look toward the future, this Board remains committed to balancing strategic investments with responsible stewardship of public resources," Brittain said. "The decisions reflected in this budget position Burke County to remain financially strong while continuing to provide exceptional services to our citizens."
The Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget becomes effective July 1, 2026.
