Smyrna budget discussions will continue
Independent audits also ongoing
There was time allotted to discuss budget issues on Smyrna Town Council’s agenda Monday.
But not for long.
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Smyrna budget discussions will continue
Independent audits also ongoing
By SMYRNA — There was time allotted to discuss budget issues on Town Council’s agenda Monday.
But not for long.
Shortly into the bimonthly meeting, members voted 4-3 to remove items connected to the adoption of the operating and capital budgets for fiscal year 2024.
First, Councilwoman Corrine Upshur expressed concern about moving ahead with the discussion, then she was joined by members Tabitha Gott, Valerie Forbes and Gerald Brown in a vote to remove the items.
Mayor Robert Johnson, Vice Mayor Michael Rasmussen and Councilman William Pressley Sr. voted to keep them.
So, discussion will continue on a proposed operating budget of around $40 million and a $15 million capital budget plan.
With the delay, Smyrna will continue to run on its fiscal year 2023 budget.
The next step is a budget work session Monday at 5:30 p.m. at Town Hall, 27 S. Market St.
Mayor Johnson is eager to complete the process, saying, “We need to get the budget done sooner rather than later.”
And part of the discussion, town manager Sheldon Hudson said, will be potential increases in property taxes and water and sewer rates.
Meanwhile, outside sources are examining Smyrna’s finances. Wilmington-based Belfint, Lyons & Shuman is conducting a routine audit, as contracted by the town. Plus, following a request by some council members, the state auditor’s office has begun its own audit.
For her part, Councilwoman Upshur said, “I stand on transparency and integrity. It was vital for me to let our residents know that I am working diligently to pass both our operating and capital budgets but, in an effort to assist me, I requested assistance from the state, along with Councilwoman Tabitha Gott.
“I want to know that we are headed in the right direction and closer to (making) the best decision to move our town forward.”
In other business Monday, council established April 8 for a “meet the candidates” night at Town Hall. Councilwoman Forbes and Alvin Pope are vying for one District 3 seat, while Councilman Brown, Dean Johnson and Justin Capps are seeking a lone at-large spot.
The municipal election will be 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 30.
