School improvement costs rise in Jackson
Rising construction costs are causing problems for Jackson County Schools as it attempts to complete $9 million of much-needed capital upgrades. With projects out for bid and work underway, estimates are showing that it will cost 25 percent more than expected — $2.22 million — to carry out the original construction plan.
Jackson commissioners and elections boards disagree over budget authority
The Jackson County Board of Elections’ attempt to exert a new level of independence from the county commissioners resulted in an hour-long — and, at times, contentious — meeting between the two boards July 11.
Waynesville discretionary spending reveals trends
In each year’s budget, the Town of Waynesville makes discretionary special appropriations contributions to a plethora of local nonprofits that help support everything from festivals to food for seniors.
State budget fight comes down to the wire
Leaders in both the North Carolina House and Senate have reached consensus on a $23 billion fiscal year 2017-18 budget June 19.
Bellying up to the trough
Any local, state and federal budget typically includes what is technically called discretionary spending but is commonly known as “pork.”
N.C. residents in for big tax cuts if budget passes
Assuming a legislative override of Gov. Roy Cooper’s budget veto — which happened as The Smoky Mountain News went to press June 27 — North Carolinians could be in for a slew of tax cuts that will save state residents by one estimate more than $530 million over two years when they take effect in 2019.
Win some, lose some: State’s education spending gets mixed reviews
A legislative majority of House and Senate members have reached a state budget agreement, one that is providing nearly $700 million more in public education spending over the next two years — but not everyone is happy with where that funding is going.
Swain looks to Clampitt for help with capital funding
Swain County didn’t include any funding for capital projects in the 2017-18 budget, but commissioners are hopeful their state representative might be able to find some available funding.
Macon commissioners split on budget approval
By Kurt J. Volker • Contributing Writer
Following a somewhat contentious debate leading up to final budget approval, Macon County Commissioners last week approved a $49.6 million spending plan for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2017, with no hike in property taxes. That rate will remain 34.9 cents per $100 of property valuation.
Swain budget hearing set for June 22
Swain County commissioners will hold a public hearing at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 22, to hear feedback from the community prior to passing a proposed $15.6 million budget for 2017-18.
