ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The proposed 2025-26 city budget is on the agenda for the upcoming Asheville City Council meeting.
The proposed budget for fiscal year 2025-26 totals $256.08 million, a $5.2 million — or 2.1 percent — increase over the adopted budget for fiscal year 2024-25.
The proposed general fund budget, which accounts for the largest share of city operations, totals $182.66 million, reflecting a $2.95 million — or 1.6% — increase from the current fiscal year.
The balanced proposal includes a recommended property tax rate increase of 3.26 cents to support employee compensation adjustments and to maintain the city’s unassigned general fund balance at the policy goal of 15 percent of expenditures.
A public hearing will take place during the May 27 meeting. Community members are encouraged to attend and share their input — your voice matters, city officials said.
Want a preview of what’s in the budget? Tune in to this week’s episode of What’s Up AVL!, featuring members of the City of Asheville Finance Department. The podcast offers an overview of the proposed budget and why it’s important for residents.