Alamance County Commissioners have approved next year’s budget, which includes a property tax increase aimed in part at supporting local schools.
The tax hike was a central point of debate during Monday’s hours-long meeting. Several community members spoke during the public comment period, urging commissioners to avoid cuts to the school district and library system.
Resident Joanna Flynn acknowledged that preserving those services might come at a cost.
“I understand that the budget is tight, but this is where our community values become most important in guiding how our money is spent — and when it’s worth raising taxes,” she said.
In the end, commissioners voted 3-2 in favor of a budget plan that raises the property tax rate by two and a half cents. The additional revenue will help meet the school district’s funding request for the upcoming year.