Northampton County sends FY 2026 budget and tax rates to public hearing

The Northampton County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday evening to send its proposed FY 2026 budget and tax rates to public hearing.

The proposal includes a two-cent increase in the real estate and mobile home tax rates—from $0.685 to $0.705 per $100 of assessed value. Other tax categories, including personal property, aircraft, and boats, remain unchanged.

A lengthy discussion ensued, with Supervisors Oliver Bennett and Betsy Mapp expressing concern about the potential burden on taxpayers. Bennett said he hoped to assure his constituents that any tax increase would bring enhanced services, not just cover existing obligations.

“Frankly, we are not asking for this money… we are taking this money. So that’s a responsibility we take very seriously,” said County Administrator Charlie Kolakowski. “We don’t look at increasing it unless we have to.”

Kolakowski noted that inflation continues to drive up costs across the board and added that the County was fortunate its health insurance premiums rose “only” 4% this year.

Board Chairman John Coker highlighted that the County’s sales, meals, and transient occupancy tax revenues are currently below expectations and likely won’t meet projections. He also noted concerns circulating in the community that some builders are increasing prices on homes already under construction, leaving buyers worried they may no longer be able to afford properties they had already committed to.

“We are getting growth from residential development, but not seeing growth in commercial, which would drive more sales and meals taxes,” Kolakowski said.

The proposed FY 2026 general fund budget totals approximately $47.57 million—an increase of $3.23 million over FY 2025. General property tax revenues are expected to rise by nearly $2.86 million to $29.2 million, while other local tax revenues are projected to fall by roughly $376,000. Increases are also expected in shared expenses, categorical aid, and recovered costs.

On the expenditure side, the County plans increased funding for public safety (up $674,462), judicial administration (up $183,329), and parks and recreation (up $133,558). Reductions include a $283,000 cut to public works and more than $123,000 in community development. Non-departmental spending is slated to rise by over $2.4 million.

The public hearing will take place at the June regular meeting. The full budget is available for public inspection at the County Administrator’s Office during regular business hours and can be seen online here.