Introduction
In the city of New Bern, residents may soon experience changes not only in their property taxes but also in their water and sewer rates. These proposed changes come as part of the city’s budget for the fiscal year 2023-24, which was recently presented to the board of aldermen by City Manager Foster Hughes. The budget request amounts to $149,449,202, reflecting a 6.8% increase from the previous year’s adopted budget. In this article, we will delve into the details surrounding these proposed changes and their potential impact on the residents of New Bern.
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- New Bern residents could see changes in city property taxes as well as water and sewer rates under a proposed city budget presented to the board of aldermen last week. During the March 9 presentation, City Manager Foster Hughes explained that the city’s total fiscal year 2023-24 budget request will be $149,449,202, a 6.8% increase from last year’s adopted budget of $139,940,032. [1]
- New Bern residents have avoided a property tax increase for another year, while utility rates were also not touched when the city of New Bern’s 2022-23 budget was approved in June. However, there are several interesting projects coming this year. [2]
Understanding the Proposed Changes
The proposed city budget aims to address various aspects of New Bern’s financial landscape, including property taxes and utility rates. City Manager Foster Hughes shed light on these changes during his presentation to the board of aldermen. Let’s take a closer look at what these changes entail:
Property Tax Adjustments
Under the proposed city budget, New Bern residents may witness adjustments in their property taxes. While the exact details of these adjustments are yet to be fully disclosed, it is crucial to recognize the potential impact they could have on the community.
Property taxes play a significant role in funding essential services and infrastructure improvements within the city. Any changes in these rates can directly influence homeowners and businesses alike. It will be important for residents to stay informed about the specifics of these proposed adjustments and their potential implications.
Water and Sewer Rate Modifications
In addition to property tax adjustments, the proposed city budget also includes modifications to the water and sewer rates in New Bern.
Water and sewer services are fundamental necessities for any community, and changes in their rates can have a direct impact on residents’ budgets. It is crucial for individuals and families to understand the potential implications of these modifications and how they may affect their monthly expenses.
City Manager Foster Hughes emphasized the need for these changes during his presentation to the board of aldermen, underlining their importance for maintaining the city’s infrastructure and service quality.
Previous Budget Approvals
It’s worth noting that in the previous year, New Bern residents managed to avoid a property tax increase as the city’s budget for 2022-23 was approved without any adjustments to utility rates. This provided some relief to the community, allowing individuals and businesses to maintain their financial stability.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that budget priorities can change from year to year, and this year’s proposed budget includes adjustments in both property taxes and utility rates. As
the city presents its proposed budget for the fiscal year 2023-24, residents should be prepared for potential changes in both property taxes and utility rates. It is essential to recognize that budget priorities can shift from year to year, and the proposed adjustments reflect the city’s current financial goals and needs.
Implications for Residents
The proposed changes in property taxes and utility rates can have significant implications for the residents of New Bern. Let’s explore some of the potential effects:
- Property Tax Adjustments: If property tax rates are increased, homeowners and businesses may experience a higher tax burden. This can impact their overall financial planning, including household budgets, business operations, and potential property investments. On the other hand, if property tax rates are decreased, residents may benefit from reduced tax obligations, providing them with additional financial flexibility.
- Water and Sewer Rate Modifications: Any modifications to water and sewer rates can directly impact residents’ monthly expenses. An increase in these rates may lead to higher utility bills, potentially affecting households with limited financial resources. Conversely, if the rates are reduced or remain unchanged, residents may experience more stability in their water and sewer expenses.
It is crucial for residents to stay informed about these proposed changes, as they can significantly impact their financial well-being. City Manager Foster Hughes emphasized the importance of maintaining the city’s infrastructure and service quality, suggesting that the proposed adjustments are necessary for the overall betterment of New Bern.
Conclusion
The proposed changes to property taxes and utility rates in New Bern’s budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 reflect the city’s evolving financial landscape and priorities. While the exact details of these adjustments are yet to be disclosed, residents should be prepared for potential impacts on their tax obligations and monthly utility expenses.
Staying informed about these changes and engaging in discussions with local authorities can help residents better understand the implications and effectively plan their finances accordingly.
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