HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 06-09-2026 WSCITY OF
n DUNN
® NORTH CAROLINA
lw"-"ewrnu nifdr befowl
CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION
6:30pm, Tuesday, June 9, 2026
Dunn Municipal Building
401 East Broad Street
Dunn, North Carolina 28334
-AGENDA-
CALL TOORDER- William P. Elmore, Jr., Mayor
INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE- Dr. David Bradham, Council Member
CONSIDERATION & APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
PRESENTATIONS
1. Juneteenth Proclamation
CONSENTAGENDA
Consent Agenda items are considered and approved by a single motion and vote. Any member of the City Council may
request an item be removed, without a motion or a vote, from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration. If an item
is removed from the Consent Agenda, that item will be placed under the Items for Discussion & Possible Action section of
the agenda.
2. Approval of May 26, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION & CALENDARING FOR JUNE 23, 2026
3. Medical Retirement of K9 Max
4. Public Hearing- FY27 Recommended Budget
REPORTS & UPDATES
5. City Manager's Report
a. Cotton Gin Demolition
6. Announcements
CLOSED SESSION
If called, the motion to enter closed session must cite the North Carolina General Statute that authorizes the closed
session.
ADJOURNMENT
The City of Dunn is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Page 1 of 1
OF
CITY
® NORTH CAROLINA
I
Juneteenth 2026
WHEREAS, Juneteenth has been celebrated annually since June 19, 1866, to mark the abolition of sanctioned
slavery in the United States; and
WHEREAS, on September 22, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation,
declaring that as of January 1, 1863 all enslaved people in the rebellious area would be thenceforward and
foreverfree; changingthe nature of the Civil War; and
WHEREAS, in addition to freeing enslaved people held in Confederate States, the Emancipation Proclamation
enable African Americans to enlist in the Union Arm as U.S. Colored Troops; and
WHEREAS, it took almost three more years of conflict and loss to bring about the end of the Civil War, and the
ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution in December 1865, to officially end
slavery in the United States; and
WHEREAS, the news of freedom disseminated gradually throughout the nation; on June 19, 1865, two months
after the official surrender of the Confederacy at Appomattox, Union Soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and
issued General Order No. 3 announcing freedom to some of the last enslaved people in the united States; and
WHEREAS, in 2026, America celebrates the 250t" anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence
marking the freedom of the United States, though not all Americans were truly free, and
WHEREAS, despite more than 150 years sine the abolition of slavery, there remain economic, institution and
social barriers for Black people in America; and
WHEREAS, on this anniversary each year, organizations and individuals throughout North Carolina and our
nation celebrate African American history, heritage, culture, and freedom with events and ceremonies that
reflect the power of community, family, art, and tradition in the face of oppression; and
WHEREAS, the North Carolina General Assembly established in 2008 the North Carolina African American
Heritage Commission to preserve, protect, and promote African American history, art and culture for all people
in addition to stewarding NC Freedom Park in Raleigh, dedicated to the African American fight for freedom; and
WHEREAS, the City of Dunn encourages people to observe Juneteenth as an opportunity to reflect, rejoice, and
work in community toward a brighter future as we continue to address racial injustices in our societytoday;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that I, Mayor William P. Elmore Jr., of the City of Dunn do hereby proclaim
June 19, 2026 as "Juneteenth" in the City of Dunn and commend its observance to all residents.
Proclaimed this the 9" day of June, 2026
William P. Elmore Jr, Mayor
ATTEST:
Melissa R. Matti, City Clerk
V&re commtfnif 6Tinr!
CITY OF
DUNN
® NORTH CAROLINA
Mwe,co..cmw4 ky6v/
Work Session, June 9, 2026
Agenda Item(s): Approval of May 26, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes
Presenter(s): Melissa Matti, City Clerk
Responsible Staff: Melissa Matti, City Clerk
Action Item: Yes
Attachment(s): 1) May 26, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes
Background
None
Budget pact
None
Staff Recommendation(s)
Approval of Minutes as presented.
Suggested Motion s
Motion to approve May 26, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes as presented.
Page 1 of 1
Dunn City Council
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 26, 2026,
6:30 p.m., Dunn Municipal Building
Minutes
PRESENT: Mayor William P. Elmore Jr., Mayor Pro Tern April Gaulden, Council Members J. Wesley
Sills, Raquel McNeil, Billy N. Tart, Alan Hargis, and Dr. David L. Bradham.
Also present: City Manager Justin Hembree, Assistant City Manager Billy R. Godwin, HR Director
Connie Jernigan, Finance Director Cary McNallan, Senior Planner Stephanie'Goodrich, Police Chief Lynn
Gay, Public Works Director Dwayne Williams, Water Plant Mo
Officer Stephen Hodges, Code Enforcement Officer Alan Cana,
Christy Sweeney, City Attorney Tilghman Pope and City Clerk ME
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor William P. Elmore, Jr. called the meetingto orderat'6:
Elmore noted the warm conditions in the chamberdue,'o air
to silence their cell phones.
INVOCATION
Reverend Tyler Ward, Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church o
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Council Member Hargis led in the Pledge
CONSIDERATION & APPROVAL OF THE
Motion by Council h
motion unanimously
CONSIDERATION M
Mayor Elmore called
the agenda as preset
Jheri Hardaway
311 North Ellis venue
second by
er,r Steoud, Code Enforcement
Administrative Support Specialist
a Matti.
on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Mayor
ionin¢ issues and°asked attendees
gave the invocation.
to approve the agenda. The
AGENDA
:hanges to th Benda. Hearing none, a motion to approve
by Council Member McNeil to approve the agenda. The
Ms. Hardaway addressed the Council on three (3) matters. First, she expressed gratitude to the Mayor
" \a- v
and Commissioner McNeil for their assistance in facilitating stair repairs for an elderly neighbor, 87-
year -old Mr. Matthews, noting that the repairs allowed him to continue living independently in his
home. Second, she raised concerns about the property at 402 North Orange Avenue, located across
the street from an elementary school. She described the property as unmaintained with overgrown
grass, a history of open doors, and past issues with rats and a long-standing construction dumpster,
expressing concern about public safety, particularly for children. Third, she proposed the creation of
a community garden as a potential revenue stream and community engagement tool, citing examples
from nearby communities, the possibility of connecting with local schools and nursing homes, and the
potential to complement the upcoming farmer's market.
CONSENTAGENDA
Mayor Elmore presented the Consent Agenda items, which included seven (7) items:
• Approval of May 12, 2026 Budget Work Session Minutes
• Approval of May 12, 2026 Work Session Minutes
• Capital Project Ordinance Amendment I — East Bay Street & South Wilson Avenue Stormwater
Project
• Capital Project Ordinance Amendment II — Machine & Welding Outfall Sewer Line Improvement
Project
• Capital Project Ordinance Amendment II — Water Treatment Plant Land Purchase Project
• Lead & Copper Line Rules —KCI Associates Contract —Amendment I
• Budget Amendment for Various Accounts
Motion by Council Member Bradham, second by Mayor Pro TernGaulden to approve the Consent
Agenda, comprised of items 1 through 7. The motion carried unanim us y Copies of the Capital Project
Ordinance Amendment I — East Bay Street & South Wilson Avenue Stormwater Project (02026-06), Capital Project
Ordinance Amendment 11 — Machine & Welding Outfall Sewer Line Improvemenf�P.roject (02026-07) and Budget
Amendment (BA-2016-31), Capital Project Ordinance Amendment II — Water TreotmenNPlant Land Purchase Project
(02026-08), Lead & Copper Line Rules — KCI Associates Contract Amendment 1, and Budg t Amendment for Various
Accounts (BA-2026-29) are incorporated into these minutes as Attachment #1
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION
Zoning/Map Amendment
(RZ-26-02)
809 & 811 E Cumberland Street
Public Hearine
Mayor Elmore opened the Public Hearirig, 1
Goodrich to present the request. Ms. Good(
Amendment from Office & Institutional (0&1)
811 East Cumberland
and issued a unanim
was to consider all F
intended use. /,_-
Ms. Goodrich
including undi
Cumberland S
The.City's Future Land UE
Corridor character area vu
Staff found'the request coi
and appropriatpdensity in
No members 61
was closed at 6
Decision
noted thattH
iendation of
p.m. and called-uponSenior Planner Stephanie
lained that the Tapp cant sought a Zoning Map
hway Commercial (C-3) for properties at 809 and
rung Board had reviewed the request on May 5th
;val. Ms. Goodrich emphasized that the hearing
r the C-3 classification, not solely the assumed
=_surrounding contexjtas consistent with commercial development,
ng,(a gas station, and restaurants, all zoned C-3. She noted that East
thoroughfare and that much of its corridor is already zoned C-1 or C-3.
Plan identifies the subject properties as being within a Gateway and
ch envisions "retail, office, restaurants, entertainment, and similar uses.
s'tentwith�Future Land Use Plan policies promoting quality development
Iteway and corridor areas.
I
e forward to speak in favor or against the request. The Public Hearing
Mayor Elmore noted his intention, carried over from the prior work session, to ensure that the state
examines the need for a turn lane in front of the subject property. Ms. Goodrich confirmed that the
site plan would be reviewed by the Technical Review Committee, of which NCDOT is a member,
providing the opportunity for that evaluation.
Motion by Council Member Wesley Sills, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gaulden to adopt Option 1
and approve the Zoning Map Amendment to Highway Commercial (C-3) as presented, finding the
request consistent with the Future Land Use Plan based on competent, material, and substantial
evidence in the record. The motion carried unanimously. A copy of the Zoning Map Amendment (RZ-26-02) is
incorporated into these minutes as Attachment N2.
Consideration of Data Center Moratorium
Public Hearine
Mayor Elmore opened the Public Hearing at 6:43 p.m. and invited City Manager Justin Hembree to
present. City Manager Hembree recapped the background, noting that the Council had received staff
presentations on data centers at both the April Regular Meeting and the May Work Session, covering
development options, the status of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) as it relates to data
centers, and the general characteristics of the land use. Atthe May meeting, the Council directed staff
to prepare a moratorium and advertise a Public Hearing for this meeting.
City Manager Hembree explained that the proposed moratorium would impose a 180-day freeze on
the permitting of data centers within the City of Dunn's entire planning jurriisdiction, including both
the City limits and the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). The primary d,`rriver ofthe moratorium is that
the UDO currently contains no definition of "data center" and therefore no applicable land use
\,
regulations or development standards. The moratorium wouldEprovide,staaff with the time needed to
develop a text amendment, route it through the Planning,Board for recommendation, and bring it
before the Council for final approval. He noted thatotheracommunit es have enacted similar
moratoriums, and that the 180-day duration is short6ir than what many other jurisdictions have
adopted. He expressed confidence that staff could rmeet the timeline and develop standards that
balance economic development opportunities with protections for the community.
No members of the public came forward to speak. The Public'Hearing was closed at 6:45 p.m.
Decision
The floor was opened for discussion.
Council Member Sills spoke in opposition to\the moratorium, arguing,that it amounted to a signal of
being "closed for business" to outside site selecto and! economic development prospects. He
expressed concern that a.moratorium, even one limited to data; enters —could discourage a broader
range of businesses fro con`sideri�g Dunn, as site selectors traveling the East Coast would simply
move on upon seeingrsuch a restriction. He contended the UDO could be updated quickly by
referencing ordinances already in place in nearby municipalities such as Sanford and Fayetteville and
iu t.,��_ . Jf „
characterized the moratonum,as*�:a so(ution_in search of a problem driven by a national narrative
that he believed ultimately disadvantaged --communities like Dunn from accessing significant tax
revenue.$He o`hoted-that modern data centers have substantially improved their operational
footprint, citing advances n,closed`-loop,cooling systems and noise reduction, and reiterated his view
that the tax revenue generated b'data centers could meaningfully support City programs and
Mayor Elmore expressed respect for those concerns but disagreed that a single -industry moratorium
signals a City-wide closurefto development. He noted two (2) specific concerns. First, under the
current UDO, a data ce te/r could potentially locate in a residential area, which he viewed as a
significant risk warranting immediate attention. Second, he expressed concern that data centers —
while generating a large tax base —employ relatively few workers and consume significant municipal
resources, potentially crowding out other industrial prospects that offer greater employment
benefits.
Council Member Hargis offered a conciliatory view, agreeing with points raised on both sides. He
acknowledged the concern about signaling but noted that 180 days is a relatively short window in the
context of government operations, and that six (6) months is a practical and necessary period for staff
to craft appropriate ordinance language. He emphasized that the goal was to ensure data centers,
should they choose to come to Dunn, are placed in appropriate locations and subject to clear
development standards —rather than arriving under an ordinance that had not been designed with
them in mind.
Motion by Council Member Tart second by Council Member Bradham to adopt the 180-day
moratorium on the permitting of data centers within the City of Dunn's planning jurisdiction as
presented. The motion carried, with one (1) opposing vote — Council Member Sills. A copy of the
Ordinance Instituting a Temporary Moratorium on the Permitting of Data Centers (02026-09) is incorporated into these
minutes as Attachment #3.
REPORTS & UPDATES
City Manager's Report
Employee Picnic Recap
City Manager Hembree reported on the employee picnic held the pri
well -attended and well -received event. He noted that turnout excee
event provided a valuable opportunity for employees from different d
of the work environment. He recognized staff members Connie Ji
organizing the event despite Connie being unable to attend due to
community partners who made donations to the event: Kim's;'which
Sherry's Bakery, and Bernie's, which each donated cakes..City-Ma ages
to make the picnic an annual event.
Council Member Hargis also recognized City
involvement in preparing food for the event beg
Public Information and Outreach
City Manager Hembree provided an update o
noting that while the incoming Downfown�
responsibilities upon joining in July, staff had
presence in the interim. Staff members Christy
this initiative, which includes.weekly employ e
City's Facebook page and•otherpltforms. City
the increased activity: e
Friday, describing it as a
;pectations and that the
ents to interact outside
i and Brian McNeill for
He also acknowledged
adside dishes; Carly C's,
iee�expressed the intent
personally for -his hands-on
the City's public information and outreach efforts,
irector would eventually assume many of these
nactivejy llaunched is ore consistent social media
w ney and,:Alex Abling were credited with leading
potlights and regular project updates posted to the
oager Hembree noted positive public response to
FINANCIAL REPORT i
Finance Director Cary McN la lan.presented-the Financial Report for the end of April, with the City ten
months into tt abyear ag'ainst,a b ne ch`mark of-83.3%. Highlights included cash and investments of
$13.5 million, comparre&to $7 6,millliion at the same point the prior year, with an additional $4.5
milli on(remaining in the East Side Pump Station Construction Account. Property Tax collections for
the month of March totaled. $125 000'compared to $117,000 the prior year, with year-to-date
collections of�$5.7 million. Sales Tax receipts for February were $301,000, representing a $44,000
increase over the same month last year, with year-to-date collections of $2.6 million, or 76% of
budget. Buildih&Permit Revenues for April were $15,310, with year-to-date collections of $185,000,
representing 101% ofthe Annual Budget, compared to $125,000 collected at the same point last year.
No questions were raised y the Council.
DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS & PROJECT UPDATES
Code Enforcement
Code Enforcement Officer Alan Canady presented two (2) cases, both from the West Divine Street
area. The first involved a complaint regarding a resident operating a small engine repair business out
of a residential property. The property ownerwas cooperative and came into compliance within thirty
(30) days. Officer Canady noted the property would continue to be monitored, as the owner is
permitted to work on his own equipment but not on equipment belonging to paying customers.
The second case, at 1214 West Divine Street, involved a recently sold property where construction
debris and trash had accumulated in the driveway without a permit. A compliance letter was issued,
and the property has since been cleaned up. Officer Canady noted that staff are still working to
contact the property owners to assess what unpermitted work may have been performed, and the
case remains ongoing.
Following the report, Council Member Sills inquired about the property at 402 North Orange Avenue
raised during the Public Comment Period. Officer Canady confirmed that staff would follow up on the
property, noting that while an active building permit would authorize a construction dumpster,
overgrowth and open doors are separate concerns that staff would investigate and address.
Mayor Elmore also acknowledged the collaborative process that resolved the stair repair situation for
Mr. Matthews, crediting the resident, Commissioner McNeil, City Manager Hembree, and staff for
working together effectively.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mayor Elmore made the following announcements:
• The next Dunn City Council Work Session is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 6:30 PM in
Council Chambers.,
• The next Dunn City Council Regular Meeting is scheduled+for Tuesday,7une•23, 2026, also in
Council Chambers.
• The deadline for adopting the FY 2026-2027 Budget is Tuesday, June 30, 2026. "
CLOSED SESSION��
Mayor Elmore announced that the Council would convene`i' losed session following the meeting for
a consultation with the City's attorney.
Council Member Sills moved that Pursr
session to consult with its attorney in o
Mayor Pro Tern Gaulden. Motion passed
Members of the publicwere=dism issed prior to
ADJOURNMENT'
1.
A Motion was properly mad'e�andOconcled to
Attest:
Melissa R. Matti,
City Clerk
to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(3)-the Council go into closed
to preserve_the attorn y client privilege, second by
closed session at 7:10 p.m.
the meeting. Motion carried unanimously.
William P. Elmore Jr.
Mayor
CITY OF
DUNN
® NORTH CAROLINA
Ae--&C"OLAA4 Avihs!
Work Session, June 9, 2026
Agenda Item(s): Medical Retirement of K9 Max
Presenter(s): Chief of Police, Lynn Gay
Responsible Staff: Chief of Police, Lynn Gay
Action Item: Yes
Attachment(s): 1) Retirement Resolution
2) Release and Hold Harmless Agreement
K9 Max is a Belgian Malinois born on October 6, 2023. On June 24, 2024, the Dunn Police
Department purchased K9 Max from Orchard Knoll K9 for $8,900 and assigned him to Officer
Cody Chavis. In November 2025, Officer Chavis, noticed Max stumbling and unable to walk
straight and took him to Triangle Veterinary Referral Hospital for emergency treatment. In
April 2026, an indentation appeared on Max's head just behind his left eye and X-rays
determined an MRI would be necessary. The May 6, 2026, MRI revealed that Max has either
a malignant tumor or lymphoma located on the nerve running from his left eye toward his
brain.
On May 26, 2026, veterinarian Dr. Josh Warren advised Chief Gay and Deputy Chief Simmons
that Max's tumor location is atypical and without treatment, would likely continue growing
toward the brain stem, eventually causing death. Dr. Warren further opined that radiation
therapy is available, but whether radiation would prolong Max's life beyond one year is
uncertain. Additionally, during any radiation treatment, Max would be unable to work. Dr.
Warren did not recommend euthanasia at this time but stated that Max could be medically
retired and allowed to live with his handler for the remainder of Max's life.
Upon the medical retirement of Max, Officer Chavis desires to assume ownership of Max and
has signed a Release and Hold Harmless Agreement binding him to take full responsibility
for the physical and financial welfare, upkeep, and medical care of MAX should the City
Council so authorize.
Page 1 of 2
Staff Recommendations)
Staff recommends that K9 Max be medically retired, declared surplus property, and given to
his handler Officer Cody Chavis.
Budget Impact
n/a
Suggested Motion(s)
Motion to adopt the attached resolution to medically retire the K9 Max, declare him surplus
property, and give him to his handler Officer Cody Chavis.
Page 2 of 2
CITY OF NN
NORTH DUCAROLINA
MEDICALLY RETIRING MAX
A CANINE ASSIGNED TO THE DUNN POLICE DEPARTMENT
WHEREAS, police canine MAX has faithfully served the Dunn Police Department since he was
placed into service in June 2024 and upon adoption of this Resolution, will medically retire
June 9, 2024; and
WHEREAS, MAX, a specially trained Belgian Malinois has rendered a valuable service to the
Dunn Police Department along with the community in which he served; and
WHEREAS, MAX has performed his canine responsibilities as a professional police service K-
9 with the highest standards; and
WHEREAS, MAX has been diagnosed with a terminal cancerous tumor near his brain and
though limited treatment options are available, MAX would be unable to work and fulfill his
duties while receiving treatment and even with such treatment, the treating veterinarian
opines that there is no guarantee that such treatment would extend MAX's life beyond one
additionalyear of either life or of service; and
WHEREAS, should MAX be medically retired and declared surplus bythe City of Dunn, Officer
Cody Chavis, handler for MAX, has agreed to assume full responsibility for the physical and
financial welfare, upkeep, and medical care of MAX; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Dunn does now
medically retire Canine MAX and in accordance with NCGS §160A-266(d), declares Canine
MAX to be surplus property and transfers ownership of MAX to his assigned handler, Office
Cody Chavis, who henceforth assumes full responsibility for the physical and financial
welfare, upkeep, and medical care of MAX.
Adopted this 9th day of June, 2026.
William P. Elmore, Jr, Mayor
Attest:
Melissa Matti, City Clerk
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
COUNTY OF HARNETT
RELEASEAND HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT
H�
This Release and Hold Harmless Agreement executed thisDay of June, 2026, by
Cody Chavis, K9 officer with the Dunn Police Department, and City of Dunn, 401 E. Broad
Street, Dunn, N.C., 28334
In consideration of a resolution by the Dunn City Council (1) declaring K9 Max as
surplus property, (ii) medically retiring K9 Max due to a terminal illness, and (ill) transferring
ownership of K9 Max to his handler Officer Cody Chavis of the Dunn Police Department, the
said Cody Chavis does hereby accept receipt and- ownership of K9 Max AS -IS, without
warranty of any kind express orimplied, and with full knowledge of K9 Max's terminal medical
condition and in so doing, does fully and unconditionally release and forever hold harmless
the City of Dunn, its elected officials, managers, and employees, including the Dunn Police
Department, its Chief, and employees, from any and all past, present, or future claims,
Losses, liabilities, demands, actions, causes of action or any other liability, whether in
contract, tort, or otherwise arising out of the medical condition of K9 Max and does
acknowledge that upon execution of this Release and Hold Harmless Agreement, the said
Officer Cody Chavis will thereafter be solely responsible for the physical and financial
welfare, upkeep, responsibility, and medical care of K9 Max.
This Release and Hold Harmless Agreement is binding upon the parties, their heirs,
personal representatives, successors, agents, and assigns.
CITY OF DUNN
Justin Hembree, City Manager
ATTEST
Melissa Matti, City Clerk
Cody Chavis
CITY OF
DUNN
® NORTH CAROLINA
Mee&c"wa# 4,6e 6ul
Work Session, June 9, 2026
Agenda Item(s): Public Hearing- FY27 Recommended Budget
Presenter(s): Justin Hembree, City Manager
Cary McNallan, Finance Director
Responsible Staff: Justin Hembree, City Manager
Action Item: Yes
Attachment(s): 1) Public Hearing Notice
2) Recommended FY27 Budget Ordinance
3) Budget Alternative— Property Tax Revaluation
Background
The City Council is required to hold a Public Hearing on the proposed FY27 recommended
budget, which was submitted to the City Council on May 29, 2026, and published on the
City's website. The Public Hearing notice was advertised on May 29, 2026, and promoted on
the City's website. The budget message and proposed ordinance have been available on the
website since the published date, and the complete document has been available for
viewing in the City Clerk's office and in the Dunn Library.
Staff Recommendation(s)
Staff are recommending that the FY27 Recommended Budget be approved.
Budget Impact
The action of holding the Public Hearing has no budget impact.
Suggested Motion(s)
Open the Public Hearing and receive comments from the public regardingthe FY27
recommended budget.
Page 1 of 1
City of Dunn
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING — FY 2027 BUDGET
The proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget for the City of Dunn has been presented to the
City Council and is available for public inspection on the City's website at cityofdunn.org/
inance, in the of ice of the City Clerk at the Dunn Municipal Building from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00
p.m. weekdays, and at the Dunn Library during normal business hours.
The City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed budget on June 9, 2026, at 6:30
p.m. in Council Chambers at the Dunn Municipal Building, 401 E. Broad Street, Dunn, NC,
for the purpose of receiving comments pertaining to the budget. Persons wishing to be heard
are invited to make written or oral comments.
Melissa Matti
City Clerk
910-230-3500
Advertise: May 29, 2026
Attachment A
ANNUAL BUDGET ORDINANCE FY 2026-27 CITY OF DUNN, NORTH CAROLINA
WHEREAS the recommended budget for FY 2026-27 was submitted to the City Council on May 29,
2026, by the City Manager pursuant to General Statutes (G.S.) 159-11 and filed with the City Clerk
pursuant to G.S. 159-12; and
WHEREAS, on June 9, 2026, the City Council held a public hearing on the budget pursuant to G.S.
159-12; and
WHEREAS, on June 23, 2026, the City Council adopted a" budget ordinance making appropriations
and levying taxes in such sums as the City Council considers sufficien_ t and d proper in accordance with
G.S.159-13; \\\\\\
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF � CITY OF DUNN, NORTH CAROLINA:
Section 1. General Fund Revenu
It is estimated that the rev
year beginning Jul1, 2026, and
the toll
to June
Permits
for Services
Earnings
Other
Operating Transfers
Total General Fund
Section 2. General Fund Expenditures
19
ajor sources,will be available during the fiscal
to meet the -general fund expenditures.
6,819,552
\3,731,000
822,800
584,900
1,690,748
190,917
1,116,935
106,342
$ 15,063,194
City of Dunn, NC Recommended Annual Budget
Fiscal Year 2027
Attachment A
The following amounts are hereby appropriated by function for the operation of the City and its
activities for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
General Government
Mayor & Council $ 148,642
Administration 802.058-
Tourism 152-,785
Finance �9 046
City Hall Facility 121,324
Non -Departmental < 537,532
Planning & Inspections 963,505
Public Safety
Public Works
Section 3. Levy of Taxes
$ 3,134,892
6,051,030
1,693,408
127,880
6,106
800,793
$ 15,063,194
There is hereby levied the following rate of tax on each one hundred dollars ($100.00) valuation of
taxable property, as listed for taxes as of January 1, 2026, for the purpose of raising the revenue
constituting the general property taxes, as set forth in the foregoing estimates of revenue (Article I,
Section 1);
General Tax
Rate per $100 Valuation of Taxable Property $0.60
FIX
City of Dunn, NC Recommended Annual Budget
Fiscal Year 2027
Attachment A
Special Downtown Tax District
Rate per $100 Valuation of Taxable Property $0.12
Motor Vehicle Tax
Pursuant to provisions of General Statute 20-97 (bI) an annual motor vehicle tax in the amount of
thirty dollars ($30) is hereby levied upon any vehicle resident in the City.
ARTICLE II — WATER
Section 1. Water Enterprise Fund Revenues
It is estimated that the revenues from the following major -sources will,be available during the fiscal
year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027, to meet the water fund expenditures.
Water Sales $ 5,026,0000
Penalties and Interest t \
Section 2. Water
The
Investment Earnings
Other
Total Water Reve:
irise Fund Expen�r
are`h� appropri
ear beginning July 1
Water Treatment Plant
Capital Projects
Expenditures
for the operation of the City and its
June 30, 2027.
$ 271,425
349,459
1,151,284
2,115,916
744,477
The following source amounts and appropriations are for the Water System Development Fee (WSDF)
Fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
Water System Development Fees
Investment Earnings
Total Water SDF Revenues
21
City of Dunn, NC
$ 49,500
500
$ 50,000
Recommended Annual Budget
Fiscal Year 2027
Attachment A
Water System Improvements $ 50,000
Total Water SDF Expenditures $ 50,000
ARTICLE III — SEWER FUND
Section 1. Sewer Enterprise Fund Revenues
It is estimated that the revenues from the following =
year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027,
Sewer Sales
Penalties and Interest
Investment Earnings
Other
The 'follbwina amounts
be available during the fiscal
:r fund expenditures.
5,666,640
ated by function for the operation of the City and its
2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
Treatment Plant
$ 343,720
$ 360,127
$ 1,182,862
$ 2,347,957
Debt -Service $
10,178,974
Total Sewer Expenditures $ 14,413,640
The following source amounts and appropriations are for the Sewer System Development Fee (SSDF)
Fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
Sewer System Development Fees
Investment Earnings
22
City of Dunn, NC
$ 59,500
500
Recommended Annual Budget
Fiscal Year 2027
Attachment A
Total Sewer SDF Revenues $ 60,000
Sewer System Improvements $ 60,000
Total Sewer SDF Expenditures $ 60,000
ARTICLE IV —
Section 1. Stormwater Enterprise Fund Revenues�L /
It is estimated that the revenues from the following major sources will be available during the fiscal
year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027, to meet the
�storm ate fun- d expenditures.
Stormwater Sales $ / 723,885\\
Investment Ba^tttings / cnn
i
Total Stormwat
er
-Revenues $, 724 885
Section 2. Stormwater Enterprise Fund \
The following amounts are he appropriatcd by�functt m�for the or of the City and its
activities for the fiscal amounts
egimmng+July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
Stormwater Operations $ 162,278
Debt Service 89,026
Transfers to Ca ital Projects 85,000
Reserves �� zuu nui
Total Stonnwater,Expenditures _$ 724385
— SPECIAL REVENUE FUND AND CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
Pursuant to G.S. 159-13.2, the City Council may authorize and budget for capital projects and
special revenue funds in its annual budget or project ordinance. The project ordinance appropriates
revenues and expenditures for however long it takes to complete the project rather than for a single
fiscal year.
Ad Valorem Tax
Powell Bill Revenue
Interest Earnings
Oper Trf fr Gen Fund
Total Special Revenue Sources
23
$ 481,276
350,500
15,000
195,000
$ 1,041,776
City of Dunn, NC
Recommended Annual Budget
Fiscal Year 2027
Attachment A
Administration
Powell Bill/Street Operations
Capital Costs
Debt Service
Total Special Revenue
SECTION VI —
Charges for services and fees by City�Departments are lavi
Miscellaneous Fees and Charges Schedule -(Attachment F
Council.
Section 1. The following authorities shall apply:
$ 12,000
107,000
/342;523
580.253
\$ 1;041,776
amounts set forth'in the
ordinance) as adopted by the City
A. P_ursua`nt toVG.S. 159-15, this budget may`beamended by submission of proposed changes
�to the City'Council except as noted,in�s section under paragraph C and F.
B. The Flnance�Ditector is hereby designated Finance Officer and is authorized to make
\\interfund loans fora period ofnot more than 60 days. The Finance Officer shall establish
and,maintain accounting procedures which are in compliance with the Statutes of the State
of North Carolina anhs authorized to approve and process budget amendments between
expens` accounts, within departments, that do not change the total budget for that
departmen\tt� /
C. The City Manager shall be authorized to approve and process intrafund budget
amendments 'up to $10,000, that do not change the adopted budget total for that fund,
without further action by the City Council.
D. The use of funds from the Reserve for Contingency requires prior approval from the City
Council.
E. Interfund transfers, established in the adopted budget document, may be accomplished
without recourse to the Council.
F. At the fiscal year end, all funds encumbered or, designated within fund balance for
expenditures shall be re -appropriated to the next fiscal year's adopted budget without
further action by the City Council.
G. The Harnett County Tax Collector is authorized, empowered, and commanded to collect
the taxes and stormwater fees set forth in the tax records filed in the office of the Harnett
County Tax Assessor, and in the tax receipts herewith delivered to the Tax Collector, in
24
City of Dunn, NC
Recommended Annual Budget
Fiscal Year 2027
Attachment A
the amounts and from the taxpayers likewise set forth. Such taxes are hereby declared to
be a first lien upon all real property of the respective taxpayers in the County of Harnett.
This section of the ordinance shall be a full and sufficient authority to direct, require, and
enable the Harnett County Tax Collector to levy on, and sell any, real or personal property
of such taxpayers, for and on account thereof, in accordance with law.
SECTION VIII. - UTILIZATION OF BUDGET AND BUDGET ORDINANCE
The Ordinance and the Budget Document shall be the basis of the financial plan for the Dunn
Municipal Government during the 2026-27 fiscal year. The City,Manager shall administer the budget
and shall ensure that the operating facilities are provided with guidance and sufficient details to
implement their appropriate portion of the budget. (�
SECTION IX. - `DI, ST_RIBUTI
Ih accordance with G.S. 159-13, copt copies Ordinance shall be provided to the City Clerk City
Manager, and Finance Director to behepfon file by them for their direction in the disbursement of
funds. \ \�`'O° .N'a
Adopted this 231
Mayor
Attest:
Melissa R. Matti
City Clerk
P. Elmore, Jr.
The budget ordinance, and all additional amendments, are available in the office of the City Clerk,
Dunn Municipal Building, 401 East Broad St, Dunn, North Carolina, 28334.
Justin B. Hembree
City Manager
25
City of Dunn, NC Recommended Annual Budget
Fiscal Year 2027
CITY OF
NDTUNN
Agz&_ onu bvurs!
BUDGET ALTERNATIVE — PROPERTY TAX REVALUATION
As noted, Harnett County recently conducted a revaluation of all real property throughout the
County, including property located within the City of Dunn. The last revaluation of real property
occurred in 2022.
The North Carolina State Senate recently passed a bill (SB889) that would postpone any tax
revaluations in the State for this year. SB889 is currently in the State House Rules Committee.
City staff expect the bill will be passed by the House in the coming weeks and expects it to become
law before June 30, 2026. If this occurs, the City of Dunn would not receive the additional tax
revenues that are anticipated from the property tax revaluation. Therefore, the recommended
budget is presented as though SB889 will become law.
With this in mind, the University of North Carolina School of Government recommends that staff
present an alternative budget ordinance that could be adopted in the event that SB889 does not
become law. Based on this recommendation, the enclosed budget ordinance (Attachment A2) is
presented for information purposes.
State law requires units of local governments to publish a revenue -neutral tax rate as part of the
budget process following the completion of a revaluation of real property. The purpose of the
revenue -neutral tax rate is to provide residents with comparative information.
The revenue -neutral tax rate as set forth in the NCGS 159-1I(e) is the rate that is estimated to
produce revenues for the next fiscal year as if no revaluation had occurred. The rate is then adjusted
by a growth factor equal to the average annual percentage increase in the tax base due to
improvements or new construction since the last general reappraisal. The revenue -neutral tax rate
suggests taxes paid will be the same as in the previous year. However, taxes paid may vary by
individual taxpayer based on the fair market value assessed on real property in the countywide
reappraisal and the amount of personal property owned. Because real property is required to be
revalued at least every eight years, and personal property is revalued annually, the reappraisal of
real property re -equalizes real and personal property values. The revaluation also re -equalizes the
tax burden where some owners of real property may pay more, or less, following a revaluation.
The revaluation produced a property tax base value as of January 1, 2026 of $1,602,812,930 for
Dunn. Using the formula mandated by State law, the revenue -neutral tax rate for Dunn is 40.09
cents per $100 compared to the existing tax rate of 54.00 cents, of which 4.00 cents is dedicated
to street paving. Both rates produce annual tax revenues of $6,425,023. The growth factor over
the past four years since the last general reappraisal is 2.00% for an adjusted revenue neutral tax
rate adjusted for growth of 40.89 cents. The updated property tax base values will produce total
revenues for real property and personal property taxes of $8,655,190 for the City, of which
Page 1 of 2
$641,125 is dedicated to the street paving fund. If SB889 does not become law and given that
Dunn has not increased its real property tax rate for the essential governmental operations since
FY2014, it is recommended that the overall tax rate remain steady at 54.00 cents.
The revaluation of real property also affects the City's downtown properties that have an additional
"downtown tax". The revaluation of downtown properties produced a property tax base value on
January I, 2026 of $50,714,120. Using the formula mandated by State law, the revenue -neutral
tax rate for downtown Dunn is 10.12 cents per $100 compared to the existing tax rate of 12.00
cents. Both rates produce annual tax revenues of $51,337. The growth factor over the past four
years since the last general revaluation is 1.10% for an adjusted revenue neutral tax rate adjusted
for growth of 10.23 cents. The updated property tax base values will produce total revenues for
real property and personal properly taxes of $60,857 for the city. It is recommended that the overall
tax rate remain steady at 12.00 cents. If SB889 does not become law it is recommended that the
downtown tax rate remain steady at 12.00 cents.
Page 2 of 2
Attachment A2
ANNUAL BUDGET ORDINANCE FY 2026-27
CITY OF DUNN, NORTH CAROLINA
WHEREAS the recommended budget for FY 2026-27 was submitted to the City Council on May
29, 2026, by the City Manager pursuant to General Statutes (G.S.) 159-I 1 and filed with the City
Clerk pursuant to G.S. 159-12; and
WHEREAS, on June 9, 2026, the City Council held a public hearing on the budget pursuant to G.S.
159-12;and
WHEREAS, on June 23, 2026, the City Council adopted a
and levying taxes in such sums as the City Council consi(
with G.S. 159-13;
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY
CAROLINA:
Section]. General Fund Revenues
It is estimated that the revenues from the
year beginning July 1;*2026-and ending J
Ad
I —
Tax
OF THE
$ 7,723,600
3,631,000
822,800
i-Permits
582,800
-s for Services
1,690,748
ment Eariungs
165,917
1,112,883
ting Transfers
106,342
General Fund $
15,836,090
Section 2. General Fund Expenditures
ice making appropriations
and proper in accordance
OF DUNN, NORTH
available during the fiscal
fund expenditures.
The following amounts are hereby appropriated by function for the operation of the City and its
activities for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
1
General Government
Mayor & Council
Administration
Tourism
Finance
City Hall Facility
Non -Departmental
Planning & Inspections
Public Safety
Public Works
Public Works
Sanitation
Parks, Recreation, & Cem
Dunn Senior Center
Library
Debt Service
Total General Fun' d \
Section 3. Levy of Taxes
There is hereby I
taxable property,
constituting the €
Section 1):
Tax
Rate per
Motor Vehicle Tax
Pursuant to provis on
thirty dollars ($30) is
following rate of t;.
for taxes\as of Jai
merty taxes, as set
of Taxable Prouettvi$0.12
$ 174,241
823,958
154,733
437,518
121,437
866,876
980,820
$ 3,559,583
6,197,319
3,369,073
$ 15,836,090
Attachment A2
;hone hundred dollars ($100.00) valuation of
,026, f6r the purpose of raising the revenue
the foregoing estimates of revenue (Article I,
tatute 20-97 (b1) an annual motor vehicle tax in the amount of
upon any vehicle resident in the City.
ARTICLE H — WATER FUND
Section 1. Water Enterprise Fund Revenues
It is estimated that the revenues from the following major sources will be available during the fiscal
year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027, to meet the water fund expenditures.
+]
Water Sales
Penalties and Interest
Investment Earnings
Other
Total Water Revenues
Section 2. Water Enterprise Fund Expenditures
The following amounts are hereby appropriated by function
activities for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and endin€
Administration
Finance
Services Operations
Water Treatment Plant <
Debt Service
Transfers to Capital Projects
Total Water Expenditures
The following source amounts and appropriatic
(WSDF) Fund for the fiscal y arbeginning�July, 1,
Section 1. Sewer
Attachment A2
$ 5,026,000
20,000
55,000
165,546
$ 5,266,546
operation of the City and its
, 2027.
y 35J,323
1,144,811
2,124 6
744,477
theNWater System Development Fee
ending June 30, 2027.
$ 49,500
500
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
III — SEWER FUND
It is estimated that the revenues from the following major sources will be available during the fiscal
year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027, to meet the sewer fund expenditures.
Sewer Sales
5,666,640
Penalties and Interest
36,000
Investment Earnings
78,000
Other
7,000
Installment Financing
8,626,000
Total Sewer Revenues
$14,413,640
Section 2. Sewer Enterprise Fund Expenditures
3
Attach ment A2
The following amounts are hereby appropriated by function for the operation of the City and its
activities for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
Administration
Finance
Services Operations
Waste Water Treatment Plant
Debt Service
Total Sewer Expenditures
The following source amounts and appropriations are
(SSDF) Fund for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, a
Section L
It is estimated that the
year beginning July I,
Section 2.
The following amouri
activities for the fiscal
Sewer System Deve
Investment Earnings
Total Sewer SDF I
Sewer Syster
Total Sewer
I
Expenditures
$ 353,516
$ 362,116
$ 1,162,713
$ 2,356,321
$ 10,178,974
System Development Fee
30, 2027.
sources will be available during the fiscal
meet the stormwater fund expenditures.
$ 723,885
500
$ 724,385
appropriated by function for the operation of the City and its
g July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
Stormwater Operations $ 159,804
Debt Service 89,026
Transfers to Capital Projects 85,000
Reserves 390,555
Total StormwaterExpenditures S 724,385
4
Attachment A2
ARTICLE V — SPECIAL REVENUE FUND AND CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND
Pursuant to G.S..159-13.2, the City Council may authorize and budget for capital projects and special
revenue funds in its annual budget or project ordinance. The project ordinance appropriates revenues
and expenditures for however long it takes to complete the project rather than for a single fiscal year.
Ad Valorem Tax $. 612,300
Powell Bill Revenue
350,500
Interest Earnings
15,000
Oper Trf fr Gen Fund
195,000
Total Special Revenue Sources
$1 112,800
Administration $ 12,000
Powell Bill/Street Operations 107,000
Capital Costs 580,547
253
Debt Service � 58Q253
Total Special Revenue Expenditures $1,172,800
Charges for services
Section L The following authdi ties shall apply:
CHARGES
are levied in the amounts set forth in the
F to this ordinance) as adopted by the City
AUTHORITIES
A. Pursuarit�".S f159115, this budget may be amended by submission of proposed
changes to the City Council, except as noted in this section under paragraph C and F.
B. The Finance Dircc(or is hereby designated Finance Officer and is authorized to make
interfund loans for a period of not more than 60 days. The Finance Officer shall
establish and maintain accounting procedures which are in compliance with the Statutes
of the State of North Carolina and is authorized to approve and process budget
amendments between expense accounts, within departments, that do not change the total
budget for that department.
C. The City Manager shall be authorized to approve and process intrafund budget
amendments, up to $10,000, that do not change the adopted budget total for that fund,
without further action by the City Council.
D. The use of funds from the Reserve for Contingency requires prior approval from the City
Council.
E. Interfund transfers, established in the adopted budget document, may be accomplished
without recourse to the Council.
AttachmentA2
F, At the fiscal year end, all funds encumbered or designated within fund balance for
expenditures shall be re -appropriated to the next fiscal year's adopted budget without
further action by the City Council.
G. The Harnett County Tax Collector is authorized, empowered, and commanded to collect
the taxes and stormwater fees set forth in the tax records filed in the office of the Harnett
County Tax Assessor, and in the tax receipts herewith delivered to the Tax Collector, in
the amounts and from the taxpayers likewise set forth. Such taxes are hereby declared to
be a first lien upon all real property of the respective taxpayers in the County of Harnett.
This section of the ordinance shall be a full and sufficient authority to direct, require,
and enable the Harnett County Tax Collector to levyton, and sell any, real or personal
property of such taxpayers, for and on account thereof, iaccordance with law.
SECTION VIII. - UTILIZATION OF BUDGET AND
The Ordinance and the Budget Document shall be' the basis of the
Municipal Government during the 2026-27 McaNyear. The City 1
budget and shall ensure that the operating facilities,a e•provided w>ith F
to implement their appropriate portion.of the budget
In accordance with G
Manager, and Finance
funds.
Melissa R. Matti
City Clerk
kept
be
ORDINANCE
plan for the Dunn
fall administer the
id.sufficient details
to the City Clerk, City
in the disbursement of
William P. Elmore, Jr.
Mayor
The budget ordinance, and all additional amendments, are available in the office of the City Clerk,
Dunn Municipal Building, 401 East Broad St, Dunn, North Carolina, 28334.
Justin B. Hembree
City Manager
CITY OF
DUNN
® NORTH CAROLINA
Wl:e� co-..~A4 k64bw!
Work Session, June 9, 2026
Agenda Item(s): City Manager's Report
Presenter(s): Justin Hembree, City Manager
Responsible Staff: Justin Hembree, City Manager
Action Item: No
Attachment(s): None
The City Manager will provide updates on the following items:
a. Cotton Gin Demolition
Page 1 of 1
CITY OF
DUNN
® NORTH CAROLINA
G�/�iercconunwu� /.e�uu/
Announcements:
• The next Regular Session of the Dunn City Council is
scheduled for Tuesday, June 23rd at 6:30 p.m.
• The next Work Session of the Dunn City Council is
scheduled for Tuesday, August 11th at 6:30 p.m.
• Deadline for adopting FY 26-27 Budget is Tuesday,
June 301h
VL