Pittsboro, NC – In a recent online “Spotlight on Chatham” forum, hosted by the Chatham County Democratic Party, County Manager Bryan Thompson and Board of Commissioners Chair Karen Howard discussed key issues affecting the county’s residents, including population growth, budget allocation, property tax re-evaluations, and community engagement. As Chatham County navigates its evolving landscape, the leaders emphasized the importance of transparency, sustainable development, and the need for residents to actively participate in local governance.
Understanding Chatham County: Key Demographics and Budget
Population and Geography Chatham County, located in North Carolina, boasts a population of approximately 80,000 residents spread across over 700 square miles. The county is home to several incorporated towns, including Pittsboro, Siler City, and parts of Cary and Apex. This diverse geography includes significant natural resources, such as the expansive Jordan Lake.
County Employment and Budget Overview The county employs around 700 full-time staff, including those in the sheriff’s department and various public service sectors. The recently adopted budget for the fiscal year is approximately $211 million, reflecting a notable increase from the previous year’s budget of $192 million. The primary revenue sources are property taxes, which account for about $136 million, followed by sales tax and intergovernmental revenues. Major expenditures include funding for public schools and public safety, with schools receiving around $68 million.
Property Tax Re-evaluations: Understanding the Impact
Revaluation Process Every four years, Chatham County undergoes a property re-evaluation to assess real estate values, ensuring they align with current market conditions. This year, property values increased by an average of 52%, prompting discussions about the implications for property taxes. The county’s current tax rate is set at 60 cents per $100 of valuation, a 13 percent increase from the revenue-neutral rate of 52.96 cents.
Community Concerns Commissioner Howard noted that the revaluation process is mandated and largely outside the control of local governance. Residents are encouraged to understand that while some may see their property taxes rise, others may experience decreases based on individual property value changes. The county aims to maintain communication with residents regarding these changes to alleviate concerns.
Engaging the Community: Channels for Communication and Feedback
Public Participation To foster community engagement, Thompson highlighted the various avenues available for residents to voice questions or complaints. This includes direct contact with the county manager’s office, attending monthly board meetings, and utilizing an interactive online platform for inquiries. The county is committed to ensuring that all residents, including those without internet access, can participate in local governance.
Recent Initiatives Both leaders expressed pride in recent initiatives, such as the Farmland Preservation Trust Fund aimed at protecting the county’s agricultural landscape and the implementation of a Low-Income Tax Relief program. These efforts reflect the county’s commitment to preserving its rural character while addressing the needs of its residents.
Addressing Development and Zoning Concerns
Zoning and Development A significant concern among residents is the management of local development and zoning applications. Commissioner Howard emphasized that the majority of complaints received by the board relate to zoning issues, as residents seek to protect their quality of life. The county’s new Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) aims to provide a framework for sustainable growth while respecting the community’s values.
Affordable Housing Initiatives The discussion also touched on the pressing issue of affordable housing. Both leaders acknowledged the challenges of providing affordable options in a growing community. They emphasized the need for collaboration with developers who share a commitment to affordability and sustainable development practices.
Broadband Access: Challenges and Solutions
Current Challenges Broadband access remains a significant concern in Chatham County, particularly in rural areas. Howard explained that state legislation limits local governments’ ability to invest in broadband infrastructure. However, the county is actively pursuing federal funding opportunities to improve internet access across underserved areas.
Funding and Future Prospects Thompson detailed several federal programs aimed at expanding broadband access, including the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, which aims to serve thousands of households. By leveraging local funds to match federal grants, the county hopes to enhance connectivity and bridge the digital divide.
Watch on YouTube – Dialog with Karen Howard and Bryan Thompson
00:04 Overview of Chatham County’s demographics and government structure.
- Chatham County has a population of approximately 80,000 residents and covers over 700 square miles.
- The county employs around 700 individuals, including those in the sheriff’s office and various public departments.
02:30 Chatham County’s budget overview and employee count.
- Chatham County manages approximately 700 employees, with seasonal increases during election cycles.
- The adopted budget for the upcoming fiscal year is $211 million, with property taxes being the primary revenue source.
07:39 Discussion on revenue neutral tax rates and their implications.
- Revenue neutral tax rate is adjusted to maintain equivalent revenue despite property value increases, shifting from 72.5 to 52.96 cents.
- FY26 budget proposes a new tax rate of 60 cents, which could lead to individual tax increases based on varying property value changes.
10:26 Revaluation impacts property tax rates and is often outside local control.
- Mandatory revaluation occurs independently every four years to manage rising property values.
- Residents can participate in the process and raise concerns through various channels provided by the county.
15:11 County communication methods and recent initiatives highlighted.
- Residents without online access receive limited mail correspondence, mainly tax bills and departmental information.
- The county offers an interactive budget document online featuring accomplishments across departments and services.
17:29 Chattam County prioritizes farmland preservation and improved communication through new initiatives.
- The Farmlands Preservation Trust Fund aims to support local farmers in permanently preserving their land.
- Adoption of the Unified Development Ordinance seeks to enhance land use planning despite legislative challenges.
21:54 Zoning concerns dominate commissioner complaints while broadband issues highlight legislative limitations.
- The board of commissioners primarily receives complaints about zoning applications, reflecting community values on property proximity.
- Legislation in North Carolina limits local governments from investing in broadband infrastructure, complicating efforts to address connectivity issues.
24:03 Chatham County is enhancing broadband access through available funding.
- Three programs are being implemented to expand broadband capacity to underserved households and businesses.
- Efforts are focused on accurate mapping of service gaps and targeting ISPs to meet rural connectivity needs.
28:30 Chattam County effectively utilizes local and federal funding for infrastructure projects.
- Local funds enhance project scale, allowing 2400 homes to benefit from infrastructure improvements.
- ARPA funding is secure, ensuring ongoing support for essential county programs despite federal uncertainties.
30:43 Local governments must address gaps left by federal and state support.
- Local governments are responsible for providing services when federal and state programs become inaccessible or insufficient.
- Increased demand on nonprofits, such as food access and shelters, highlights the need for local government intervention and support.
35:09 Discussion on development management tools in local governance.
- County officials express concerns about feeling powerless in regulating development.
- The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) aims to manage development while preserving environmental values.
37:37 Ensuring Chattam’s development maintains its identity and respects its heritage.
- Emphasizes the importance of preserving Chattam’s natural vegetation amid development pressures.
- Supports controlled density and thoughtful planning to address housing affordability while retaining the community’s character.
41:48 Community importance in urban development and manufacturing priorities.
- Preserving green spaces enhances community livability and supports urban density and affordability.
- Manufacturing industries like Wolf Speed are critical for national security and should be prioritized by leadership.
43:58 Discussing the potential of successful investors and electric vehicle market dynamics.
- Investors with strong financial backing may revitalize the market as funding increases from initiatives like the Chips Act.
- Chatham County’s incentive agreements are performance-based, focusing on job creation without upfront financial risks.