FROM STAFF REPORTS

Mooresville Town Manager Randy Hemann presented a proposed $121,563,370 budget for fiscal year 2021-2022 to the town board on Monday night.

The spending plan holds the town’s property tax rate at 58 cents per $100 valuation. If approved by town commissioners, the tax rate would remain unchanged for the 14th consecutive year — but generate $3 million more than in the current budget year.

Utility rates would also remain flat.

The recommended General Fund budget — which funds personnel, operations, capital and debt service — totals $78.69 million, which represents an increase of 11.08 percent over the current budget. 

“This Recommended Budget continues the path of providing superior services and programs in an effective and consistent manner. Fortunately, the operating funds meet the personnel, operation, debt, and strategic tactical actions of the growing community without financial hardship,” Hemann explained in his annual budget message. “However, it must be noted as the Town continues to grow and expand, so will the cost of providing programs and services.”

Budget Highlights

Among the highlights:

♦ The spending plan includes a 3 percent merit pay increase for town employees. It also adds new employee benefits, including the NC 457 Plan, pet insurance and an upgraded Employee Assistance Program.

♦ The budget includes funding Spanish Language courses for law enforcement officers and employees who interact frequently with the public.

♦ The spending plan includes funding for 21 new positions, including nine new firefighters to staff Station 6. Funding is also included for five new full-time and four part-time positions for the new Westside Library Branch.

♦ The budget calls for appropriating $950,000 from the fund balance to pay for a new fire truck.

♦ Other major capital expenses include $5 million for phase II of Liberty Park and $1.5 million for a new skate park, as well as $500,00 for the Mazeppa Flyover and $400,000 for Moore Avenue Pedestrian Improvements.