Forsyth County Board of Commissioners candidates debate tax hikes at forum

As Forsyth County prepares for property reappraisals next year, tax increases have become a major discussion in the Board of Commissioners race.  The six candidates laid out their views on the topic at a recent forum at R.J. Reynolds High School. 

Democratic candidates Valerie Brockenbrough and Marsie West both say a tax hike may be necessary in order to raise funding to support public education. Democrat Curtis Fentress agreed that more money is needed, but said boosting rates may not be the answer:

“We have to grow revenues in the county. And by that, I don't mean the rate of taxation. By that, I mean the number of taxpayers," he said. "We need a comprehensive strategy to attract more people to visit Forsyth County. More people live in Forsyth County, and that's what's really going to grow the tax base.”

Brockenbrough and West both suggested other budget changes should be discussed before tax increases are considered. 

Incumbent Republicans Gloria Whisenhunt and Richard Linville both played a role in this year’s county budgetary process — the final budget did not include a property tax hike. It also included less than half of the funding the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools district requested.

Whisenhunt defended the choice, saying the board has to balance competing priorities. 

“This is the way I feel about [property] taxes. That's our only revenue stream except for sales tax, and so we have to be very mindful of that," she said. "But you know, the buzzword now is 'affordable housing.' Raising taxes is not good for affordable housing, and I have to think about all our citizens."

Fellow Republican Gray Wilson, who was appointed to fill Dave Plyer’s seat after he retired in June, called education funding “the most difficult decision in the budgeting process.” He advocated for the reconsideration of funding formulas as a solution, saying tax increases burden the working class. 

The six candidates are vying for three seats on the board.