Iredell County Manager Presents FY2025-26 Budget: Focus Remains On Growth, Fiscal Responsibility, And Strategic Investments
In a presentation to the Iredell County Board of Commissioners Tuesday, May 6, County Manager Beth Milton announced the recommended Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget, laying out a conservative yet forward-thinking financial plan that balances core services, capital investments, and the realities of a fast-growing population. The proposed budget maintains the current tax rate of 50 cents per $100 valuation — one of the lowest in the state — while preparing for critical long-term needs.
Budget workshops are scheduled for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday next week, during which Commissioners will review the proposal in detail ahead of adoption.
Managing Growth with Strategic Planning
“Iredell County continues to experience tremendous growth, and with that comes increased demand on every department — from public safety and social services to schools and infrastructure,” Milton said during her presentation.
Since 2020, the county’s population has grown by more than 11% to an estimated 207,382 residents. That growth is reflected in a 9% increase in parcels and an 18% surge in building permits over the past year alone — mostly residential.
Milton emphasized the importance of managing growth in a balanced way. “Growth is positive, but it must be planned. Otherwise, it risks overburdening our emergency services, road networks, and schools,” she said.
Partnerships with entities like the Iredell Economic Development Corporation are helping guide that balance, with seven business projects announced last year totaling $121 million in investment and the creation of 267 jobs.
Investing in Education Amid Cost Pressures
A key component of the recommended budget is education funding, which represents a 5.4% increase and supports Iredell-Statesville Schools, Mooresville Graded School District, and Mitchell Community College.
Per-pupil operational funding will rise from $2,287 to $2,354 — a 2.9% increase in line with the December Consumer Price Index.
But the cost of school construction is increasing dramatically. Milton detailed several projects under pressure from inflation, including:
• Weathers Creek High School: Initially estimated at $80 million in 2020, the cost has risen to $130 million. To meet the need, the County borrowed $40 million and redirected $10 million from the Iredell County Health Department project.
• Parkertown Elementary: Projected costs have risen from $40 million to over $52 million. The County has committed to funding the facility in cash, pulling from reserves originally earmarked for future County projects.
• Mitchell Community College Public Safety Training Center: Now expected to cost more than $23 million — more than double the initial estimate — and partially funded through reserves and capital improvement funds.
“These are hard decisions, but they reflect our commitment to students and public safety,” said Milton, noting that borrowing and redirecting funds was necessary but not sustainable long term.
Capital Improvement Plan Prioritizes County Assets
The recommended budget continues investment in the County’s eight-year Capital Improvement Plan, which includes:
• Final renovations to the historic Government Center
• Incremental funding for ADA compliance and energy-efficient LED lighting upgrades
• A new consolidated warehouse facility to protect mobile units and equipment
• Interior renovation planning at Government Center South
• Technology upgrades for IT, Elections, and Emergency Communications
• Parks and recreation enhancements, including parking at Jennings Park and restroom facilities at Big Leaf Slopes
Routine maintenance for County facilities is also funded, including roof, HVAC, and chiller replacements.
Staff Retention Takes Priority Over Expansion
After adding 57 positions last year — mostly in Social Services and EMS — the 2025-26 budget prioritizes staff retention over new hires. No new positions or reclassifications are recommended.
Milton credited past Board investments, including a market study that introduced a fair, formula-based pay structure, with improving the County’s ability to attract top talent. The budget includes a 3% pay-scale adjustment and a matching increase to the minimum starting salary, both effective in July.
“Being competitive in today’s workforce means rewarding those who choose to serve our community,” Milton said.
Planning for the Future
To prepare for continued growth, the County is nearing completion of a Space and Needs Study that will guide future facilities planning. Additionally, a comprehensive fire services study is underway to evaluate equipment, funding, facilities, and district needs.
“Our aim is to make informed, long-term investments that support our citizens today and position us for tomorrow,” Milton said. “This budget is about balance — meeting the needs of a growing community while holding firm to conservative financial principles.”
The Board of Commissioners will begin budget workshops on May 12, with additional sessions on May 13 and May 14. Final adoption is expected in June.
About Iredell County Government
Iredell County Government is committed to serving residents and businesses by providing high-quality public services, fostering economic development, and enhancing the overall quality of life. Incorporated in 1788, Iredell County is located in the central section of North Carolina and encompasses the city of Statesville and towns of Harmony, Love Valley, Mooresville and Troutman.
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