Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Goldsboro public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
Customer Convenience Fees and Xpress Bill Pay
Starting as early as January, paying by card would cost customers 3.5% ($3 minimum) so the city stops eating those costs. Council paused over the 3.5% debit fee and wants answers before the next meeting; cash, check, and auto-draft stay free.
Proposed Census Residency Changes and Military Undercount
A proposed rule change would count service members at their tax-filing residence, not where they live — potentially costing Goldsboro population and funding tied to Seymour Johnson AFB. A resolution may come next meeting.
Coronavirus relief fund reallocation decision
The city may extend its COVID funds up to a year (~$300,000), reopening the question of courts versus ballfield lighting; council wants it on next month's agenda after consulting tourism.
Cell Phone Stipends and Device Inventory
The city spends roughly $85,000 a year on cell phone stipends and pays for 259 city-issued devices. Some Verizon usage data looks wrong, so staff will fix the report and draft a formal allowances policy for council action later this year.
$3.8M Equipment Financing
The city is borrowing about $3.8 million at 3.23% to finally catch up on replacing worn-out vehicles and equipment — police cars, trucks and more — after years of deferred purchases.
Herman Park Center Demolition Funding
The city accepted $250,000 in federal HUD money secured through Congressman Murphy's office to tear down the Herman Park Center.