Raleigh leaders approve property tax increase as part of $1.77 billion budget

The Raleigh City Council unanimously passed a $1.77 billion budget on Monday.

The fiscal year 2027 budget includes a 1.7 cent property tax increase per $100 of assessed value. It means about $67 more per year for a median Raleigh home, which costs about $450,000.

“The Proposed Budget protects our existing services while adjusting to the realities of the fiscal pressures we currently face,” City Manager Marchell Adams-David said in a news release. “It reflects difficult decisions, grounded in fiscal stewardship, that position Raleigh to sustain the high standards of service our community deserves.

“Even in the face of economic uncertainty and constrained revenues, this budget advances the priorities that matter most to our residents: a safe city, a reliable infrastructure system, vibrant public spaces and responsive services delivered with integrity and care.”

Raleigh will have a general fund budget of $652.8 million when the new fiscal year begins July 1.

The city said the fiscal year 2027 budget closes a $13 million gap through strategic budget realignments, eliminating open positions, and holding vacant positions open.

The city will add 23 sworn police officers, six call takers for 911 and three fire marshals. In support of the Fire Master Plan, 12 firefighters were added and the second fire academy is made permanent.

The approved budget also includes 21 staff positions to the Solid Waste Services department to manage the plan that Raleigh will begin collecting leaves with yard waste each week beginning in the fall.

A $2 million general fund subsidy will continue the two-hour free parking at five downtown city-owned garages.