Cleveland County leaders are keeping the property tax rate right where it is, at least for the coming year, while they size up a proposed $207.6 million spending plan. At their May 19 meeting, commissioners heard County Manager David Cotton’s recommended FY 2026–27 budget, which officials say holds the line on current services while juggling school and public-safety needs. A public hearing on the proposal is set for Tuesday, June 2 at 6 p.m.
Budget Holds the Line on Tax Rate
The recommended FY 2026–27 budget comes in at just over $207.6 million, with nearly $77.8 million expected from property-tax revenue, according to Cleveland County Government. The county’s general property tax rate stays at 40.5 cents per $100 of valuation. When you add a 14-cent school levy and a 7-cent fire levy, the total rate remains 61.5 cents per $100.
County officials also flagged the upcoming public hearing, inviting residents to weigh in on Tuesday, June 2 at 6 p.m. at the County Administration Building.
What a Penny Buys
Cotton reminded commissioners that “each one-cent change in the tax rate equates to approximately $1.4 million in revenue,” a bit of math meant to underscore how even a tiny rate tweak can ripple through services and school funding, according to the board meeting minutes.
Community Shout-Outs and Emergency Radio Prep
The budget talk shared the agenda with some hometown recognition. Commissioner Johnny Hutchins was honored for his induction into the North Carolina Outdoors Hall of Fame, and students from Springmore Elementary were thanked for handling flag duty and invited to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting also spotlighted emergency communications. The Shelby Amateur Radio Club briefed commissioners on how amateur radio can assist during emergencies and noted the group will participate in an ARRL Field Day at Weathers Arena on June 27 from 12–6 p.m., according to Cleveland County Government.
Public Hearing and Next Steps
Commissioners will take public comment at the June 2 hearing before deciding whether to adopt the budget. With the county’s fiscal year starting July 1, they have a relatively tight turnaround to lock in final numbers.
Copies of the budget message and the full draft budget are available through county channels and at the Clerk to the Board’s office for residents who want to sift through the details before the hearing.
