FY2025 Budget Message
As a result of the increase in assessed valuation , the funding to support the Penny for Parks Program implemented in FY 2023-2024 , has increased from $ 573,094 to $ 914,826 . This increase will greatly assist the Town in making updates and improvements to our park facilities , which are great assets to our Town . Updates and improvements include playground equipment replacement , wayfinding and signage replacement and improvements , as well as repaving of trails across the park facilities .
In addition to increased funding for Penny for Parks , this budget includes investments in public art and housing rehabilitation partnerships . The FY 2024-2025 budget includes seed funding for the Town to support public art initiatives and continued funding to support keeping residents in their homes . The Town has had success in leveraging state and federal funding to improve its recreational amenities , the Garner Senior Center and infrastructure investments in Downtown Garner . These investments and new projects provide additional opportunities to leverage funding while engaging with community partners to create an inviting and thriving community .
Along with supporting the Town ’ s parks , this budget continues to support maintenance , repair and replacement of the Town ’ s infrastructure , facilities and vehicles . The Public Facility Repair and Maintenance ( PFRM ) program supports the maintenance of Town facilities and assets , while the Vehicle and Equipment Repair Program ( VERT ) supports a strong fleet for those requiring Town vehicles as part of their work .
Funding to evaluate the Town ’ s growing space needs , including Town Hall expansion and future office space , has been included as part of the PFRM budget in FY 2024-2025 . These are critical elements that are the foundation to continue to provide high-quality services to the community .
Our blueprint also includes a multi-year strategy that addresses opportunities and challenges associated with the Town ’ s unprecedented growth . The tax rate includes 8.5 cents dedicated to the Revenue Savings Plan , a new strategy that allows for greater planning , transparency and management of capital funds . Through this approach , Garner continues to maintain well-managed fiscal policies and practices that have resulted in continued outstanding credit ratings of AAA by Standard & Poor ’ s and Aa1 by Moody ’ s Investors Services . We intend to maintain this fiscal strength in upcoming years despite our growing financial needs .
The investments included in the FY 2024-2025 Recommended Budget are building blocks for our future that create a solid foundation and support for the preparation of future funding strategies . Each one is a critical element in the success of a strategic , forward-thinking community that is a great place to be .
Presenting the recommended budget to the Mayor and Council starts the process for Council ’ s discussion and deliberations of the FY 2024-2025 budget . The Council is scheduled to have a budget work session on Thursday , May 23 , and a second public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday , May 21 . In addition , a budget comment portal is available on the Town ’ s website for resident feedback and ideas .
Thank you for the opportunity to present this ambitious and strategic recommended budget . I appreciate the diligence of our dedicated department heads and staff in contributing to a balanced budget while addressing service demands . I would like to acknowledge and thank the Budget Team — which includes Sara Warren , Ian Johnson , David Beck and John Hodges — for all their efforts and dedication to develop this
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