Greensboro's new budget proposal includes property tax, water rate hikes

Greensboro city residents would pay more for water under a budget proposal presented Tuesday. 

The plan includes an 8.5% increase in water rates. City officials say it was driven by a rise in the price of treatment chemicals and inflation, among other things. 

At a meeting Tuesday, City Manager Taiwo Jaiyeoba told council Greensboro’s rate would still be among the lowest in the state, even with the hike. 

“But we are also mindful of our residents who may need some support, especially as these rates go up," said Jaiyeoba. "So we're providing multiple assistance options to low-income residents so that they will also be able to maintain service.”

The $749.5 million budget also includes a 4-cent property tax rate increase to $67.25 per $100 in valuation. City officials say help is available to some homeowners affected by that as well — council approved a $250,000 property tax relief program for low-income residents in March. 

The city will hold a public hearing on the budget on June 6, at 5:30 p.m. Those who can’t attend can submit their comments online.

Editor's note: An earlier version of the story incorrectly stated that City Manager Taiwo Jaiyeoba spoke to council on Monday. The meeting actually took place on Tuesday.