The Valdese property tax rate will likely remain the same next year, but water and sewer bills could increase in the coming fiscal year.
The total proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts July 1, is $17.6 million, with that split between the general fund at $7.98 million and the water and sewer fund at $9.66 million, said Bo Weichel, town finance director, during his presentation of the proposed budget to the Valdese Town Council at its Monday night meeting.
The property tax rate is proposed to stay at 41.5 cents per $100 of property value.
One change residents will see is a switch from Republic Services to Simply Green for trash and recycling pickup, Weichel said. While residents’ bills for trash and recycling are expected to remain at $14.30 a month, Weichel said the change will save the town money.
Town water customers will likely see rates increase to $40 a month for the first 3,000 gallons and $4 for each additional 1,000 gallons, as included in the budget proposal. Outside water customers would see rates increase to $67.60 for the first 3,000 gallons and $6.85 for each additional 1,000 gallons.
The current cost for town water customers is $38.50 for the first 3,000 gallons and $3.90 for each additional 1,000 gallons. For outside water customers it is $57.75 for the first 3,000 gallons and $5.85 for each additional 1,000 gallons.
The proposed budget also includes a sewer rate increase to $14.05 for the first 3,000 gallons and $4.90 for each additional 1,000 gallons in town. Outside sewer customers would see rates increase to $26.15 for the first 3,000 gallons and $8.95 for each additional 1,000 gallons.
Current town sewer rates are $10.80 for 3,000 gallons and $3.75 for an additional 1,000 gallons and outside customers pay $20.10 for 3,000 gallons and $6.85 for an additional 1,000 gallons.
The proposed budget also includes a 5% cost-of-living adjustment for all employees.
The Valdese Town Council will hold a public hearing on the 2025-26 proposed budget at 6 p.m. at town hall on June 23.
