City Manager W. Patrick Pate presented a proposed $702.5 million budget to Mayor J. Allen Joines and the City Council during its meeting on May 4. The proposal outlines spending for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, including allocations of $548 million for operations, $49.7 million for debt service, and $104.8 million for capital improvements.
The new budget is based on a property tax rate of 59.3 cents per $100 of value, which is an increase of 2.6 cents compared to the previous year’s rate of 56.7 cents per $100 valuation. For a median household, this would mean about a $5.50 monthly increase in property taxes due to inflation and rising costs related to public safety, salaries, pensions, and health care.
“As we bring forward this proposed budget, I’m encouraged by the steady progress the City has made in strengthening its financial position and delivering reliable, high-quality services,” said City Manager W. Patrick Pate. “This budget reflects the City Council’s strategic guidance and our shared commitment to good governance, responsible financial management, and addressing the community’s highest priorities. While resources remain constrained, this plan maintains current service levels, supports our workforce, completes critical investments already underway, and positions Winston-Salem to remain resilient and forward looking.”
Budget workshops are scheduled at City Hall on May 12, May 14, and May 21 at 2 p.m., with a public hearing set for May 18 at 6 p.m., all taking place in Council Chambers at City Hall (101 N Main St.). The final version must be approved by June 30 before being submitted to the State of North Carolina; if adopted it will take effect July 1.
The proposal includes several measures aimed at supporting city employees: a total merit increase of three percent for eligible workers; recently approved funding totaling two million dollars specifically allocated for Fire Department compensation adjustments; increased investment in professional development programs; employee recognition efforts; as well as ongoing upgrades in vehicles equipment replacement schedules.
Utility rates are also set to rise under this plan: stormwater fees would go up four percent starting January 1 of 2027 while water/sewer rates would climb five percent from July 1 of 2026—an average residential customer would see their bi-monthly bill increase by about $5.89.
Some user fees—including those associated with picnic shelter rentals road closures or electric vehicle charging—would also rise so that they better reflect actual costs incurred by providing these services.
Citizens can review details online or visit the Clerk’s Office at City Hall; comments may be submitted via phone or through an online form available on the official website. Public workshops allow council members discussion but are open so residents may observe proceedings live via WSTV Digital Media or streaming platforms operated by the City of Winston-Salem.
The city provides municipal services such as infrastructure maintenance—including water treatment plants capable of processing up to ninety-one million gallons daily—and oversees local governance through an elected mayor plus eight-member council representing wards across its boundaries in North Carolina according to the official website.
