Black Mountain Proposes Increase in Waste, Water Fees for Next Budget

Black Mountain Proposes Increase in Waste, Water Fees for Next Budget

Rises in Solid Waste, Water Fees Could Be Coming to Black Mountain Residents: Budget Talks

Black Mountain Town Council continued budget talks on April 18, discussing revenues for the upcoming fiscal year. Town Manager Josh Harrold led the council through line items of projected revenues, highlighting potential increases in solid waste and water fees for residents.

Revenue Projections

The largest source of revenue for Black Mountain comes from ad valorem taxes, with a projected revenue of $5.3 million for the next fiscal year. This is up from last year’s projection of over $5.1 million. Additionally, the town expects nearly $2.6 million in revenues from local sales tax, reflecting an increase from the previous year.

Harrold noted that January and February saw lower revenues compared to December, with fluctuations expected based on the town’s economy, particularly in tourism-driven areas.

While the projected revenues do not currently include appropriations from the fund balance, adjustments will be made later to balance the budget. The town had appropriated nearly $1.8 million in funds for revenue in the general fund for the current year.

Solid Waste Fee Increase

The town is proposing an increase in the solid waste fee for residents, from $2 per month to $10 per month. This potential increase aims to generate more revenue, with a projected total of $480,000 compared to the current $115,200. The additional funds would help cover costs related to sanitation services and equipment.

Harrold highlighted that other municipalities in the area charge more for similar services, with comparisons to neighboring towns like Brevard, which charges $20 per month.

Water Fee Adjustments

Water rates for Black Mountain customers are also set to increase, in response to price hikes from the city of Asheville, from which Black Mountain purchases water due to insufficient local production. The town’s finance director, Tammy Holland, mentioned that the Asheville price increase will add around 55 cents per 1,000 gallons on top of Black Mountain’s own increase.

For the next fiscal year, the town is projecting $2.19 million in water sales revenue, reflecting a slight increase from the previous year.

Budget Overview

With the proposed adjustments to waste and water fees, the town is currently projecting general fund revenue to exceed $10.5 million. Despite being over budget by $2.5 million for the next fiscal year, the town plans to utilize its fund balance to balance the budget, as it has done in the past.

Harrold reassured council members that the town’s fund balance is in good shape, sitting at approximately 60%, well above the internal policy of 30% and the state-mandated 8%. He emphasized the positive trend of increasing savings and decreasing debt over the years.

Upcoming Budget Workshop

Black Mountain Town Council will convene for the next budget workshop session on April 25 at 8:30 a.m. in Town Hall to further discuss the proposed budget adjustments and finalize plans for the upcoming fiscal year.

As residents prepare for potential increases in waste and water fees, these budget talks aim to ensure financial sustainability and efficient resource management for Black Mountain.

For more updates and insights on Black Mountain’s budget discussions, stay tuned for the latest developments from the Town Council.