Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Laurinburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in taxes budget
Recycling and solid waste finances
The city charges $35 a month for solid waste but services actually cost about $41 per household, with recycling running a big deficit — only $3,000 in rebates last year. The city's recycling buyer is closing, and council agreed to hire a consultant to study options including rate increases or contracting out.
Purchasing policy and minority participation requirements
The state repealed Historically Underutilized Business requirements in its July budget, so the city had to scrub them from its purchasing policy to stay compliant. Officials stressed that minority- and women-owned businesses remain eligible to bid — only the outreach mandate is gone.
FY 2026-2027 City Budget
The $47.3 million proposed budget keeps a 40-cent tax rate, funds a 3% employee raise, and relies on a 10% water/sewer rate increase. Raleigh legislation could force the city back to old property values or cap future increases via a November referendum, so the budget vote was pushed to June 29.
Hillside Cemetery Improvements
Ordinance O-2026-14 would fund a road at Hillside Cemetery and a cemetery equipment shed, with completion expected next fiscal year.
FY 2026-27 Budget Input and Retreat
A public hearing is set for June 16, 2026, at 6 p.m. so residents can weigh in on next year's city budget before adoption.
Consumer Billing Department Budget Amendment
Ordinance O-2026-07 would add funding to the Consumer Billing Department, the office that handles utility bills.
Humane Society funding request
The Scotland County Humane Society is asking the city for funding in Fiscal Year 2026-2027, a request that affects animal welfare services and next year's budget.