Wake County Manager David Ellis presented a $2.1 billion budget proposal for fiscal year 2026 to the Wake County Board of Commissioners. The proposed budget spans from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, focusing on public safety staffing and infrastructure, addressing state mandates, and accommodating growth impacts. It also prioritizes education, support for the unhoused, and improved access to parks and libraries.
“Despite this uncertain economic climate, this budget is fiscally sustainable and ensures our residents’ most critical needs are met,” said Manager Ellis. He emphasized investments that align with the County’s strategic plan and community survey results.
The proposal includes a property tax increase for the voter-approved library bond and Fire Tax District residents. Natural revenue growth will cover other budget expansions.
The library bond necessitates a 0.25-cent property tax increase to fund $142 million in projects over seven years. This will allow for five new libraries and renovations of nine existing ones. The tax increase would generate $7.7 million annually, setting the rate at 51.6 cents per $100 valuation.
For homes valued at around $450,000—the median assessed value in Wake County—property taxes would rise by $11.25 annually due to the library bond.
The Fire Tax District funds fire services in unincorporated areas and Wendell townships. Many stations date back to volunteer departments from the ’70s and ’80s and need modernization for current operations.
To replace ten aging stations over ten years at more than $60 million cost and implement salary study recommendations for competitive wages—a proposed fire tax increase of 1.5 cents is suggested for unincorporated areas including Wendell, raising it to 12.25 cents per $100 valuation.
A homeowner with a property valued at $450,000 would see an additional annual charge of $67.50 due to this adjustment.
Residents can comment on the budget through wake.gov until May 21; public hearings are scheduled for May 19-20. Feedback will be summarized before discussions on May 22 during another work session where changes may be considered ahead of potential adoption on June 2 at a board meeting scheduled for 5 p.m.
Further details about Manager Ellis’ proposal can be found at wake.gov/budget.
