FY 2026-27 Budget Includes Property Tax Adjustment to Support Core Services

During tonight's City Council meeting, the City Council voted on the Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget, which begins July 1, 2026. The budget includes a total City property tax rate of 79.85 cents.This is a 12.6 cent property tax rate adjustment on current property values to help address rising service delivery costs and support core City services. This property tax rate is being assessed against current property values, rather than the recent Guilford County reevaluation values, due to the passage of Senate Bill 889 in the State Legislature.

The proposed approach is intended to help distribute the tax burden more evenly across property values, as well as to help offset costs in several major service areas, including public safety, parks and recreation, solid waste and recycling, road maintenance, water quality, and other basic operations.

"This budget is about maintaining the quality of life our residents expect while preparing Greensboro for the future," said City Manager Nathaniel "Trey" Davis. "We understand that any tax increase is significant, and that's why we've worked diligently to ensure every dollar is invested in services and infrastructure that directly benefit our community."

Public Safety: The budget includes funding for 30 additional police officer positions, expanded Behavioral Health Response Team coverage, and continued investment in technology, communications systems, and public safety equipment.

Parks and Recreation Centers: The budget restores hours for lakes and recreation centers in response to resident feedback and supports continued access to recreational and educational services throughout Greensboro.

Solid Waste and Recycling: The adjustment would help address increased collection and recycling costs while maintaining reliable service levels for residents.

Infrastructure: Infrastructure needs remain a major budget driver as Greensboro continues to grow and maintain current assets. The budget supports road maintenance, facilities, utilities, and long-term infrastructure needs. Construction material costs have also increased, with asphalt costs rising approximately 38 percent and stone materials rising approximately 66 percent over the last six years.

Water Quality: The budget continues investments in water treatment and regulatory compliance efforts to ensure Greensboro residents receive safe, high-quality drinking water. Water treatment chemical costs alone have increased approximately 50 percent over the last four years, creating significant operational challenges. To meet these growing challenges, the budget includes a 11.4% increase in the water utility rate; funding the water needs of the community while still providing one of the lowest rate structures in the state.

At the same time, the City has focused on reducing internal costs to minimize the burden on taxpayers. Efforts have included negotiating multi-year contracts to secure lower pricing, streamlining operations across departments, implementing cost-saving measures, and identifying efficiencies throughout City government.

The budget reflects Greensboro's commitment to fiscal responsibility while recognizing the realities of rising costs and a growing city. It continues the City's efforts to maintain core services, support public safety, invest in critical infrastructure, and strengthen the community for generations to come.

"The bottom line is simple," Davis said. "These are not luxury services. They are the essential services that residents rely on every day. This budget allows us to maintain those services, respond to growth, and continue building a stronger Greensboro while remaining mindful of the financial realities facing our residents."

Residents can review the approved FY 2026-27 budget by visiting the City's Budget and Evaluation webpage at greensboro-nc.gov/Budget.