South Guilford News

Guilford County's new budget for the 2020-2021 fiscal year does not increase the tax rate at a time when many spending plans are dealing with reduced revenues because of COVID-19. 

Guilford's tax rate remains at 73.05 cents per $100 of assessed property value to help support the $633.2 million budget, which is a $5.8 million increase over the 2019-2020 fiscal year spending plan. 

The county administration published budget details and related documents on the county website, which was approved in mid-June. 

The largest revenue source comes from property tax collection, according to the county budget. The county plans on collecting nearly $390 million, which translates to $714 per resident on average. The administration also projects collecting $80 million in sales tax and $70.5 million from state and federal sources. 

On the expense side, funding education accounts for 48.5% of the budget, totaling $307 million. The county also invests heavily in human services with $124 million and public safety at $118.7 million, which represents 19.6% and 18.8% respectfully.  

Aside from just funding routine operational cost, the budget also set priorities for the coming 12 months. Part of the county's focus is "healthy people." In this area, the county intends to hire mental health center director for the new facility that will open in the fall and five new positions, according to the budget goals. 

There is also a push to reduce the infant mortality rate, according to the budget goals. Nearly $60,000 was allocated for hiring an infant mortality coordinator to work with high-risk populations.

Officials will also provide additional funding to improve the safety of communities, supporting economic development and enhance tourism, infrastructure and education.