The Headwinds Facing Orange County

In the next few weeks, I will be reviewing the County Manager's proposed budget, developed in partnership with departments across the county. At the same time, we’re reviewing the recommended Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The CIP outlines major investments in schools, public safety, and infrastructure. Currently, we are looking at a several million dollar shortfall. With a gap this large, we are facing some really tough decisions in order to get to a balanced budget by June.

I know many of you are concerned. I hear the questions about schools, housing costs, and property taxes. Those concerns are valid. Orange County is heading into one of the toughest budget seasons we’ve seen in years.

Our former tax administrator, Nancy Coston, has retired after serving Orange County for more than 30 years in various roles. We are so grateful for her years of service. Our new interim Tax Administrator, John Burgess, will be working alongside the Tax Assessment Workgroup. This group is reviewing how property values are assessed to ensure the process is fair, consistent, and transparent. A recommendation about a professional consultant will be coming before the Board on April 21.

Because the most recent property revaluation marked dramatic increases in home values, this year is particularly complicated. Property taxes fund the county budget which includes essential services, building and maintaining infrastructure, paying staff including providing supplements to teacher salaries. And, at the same time, the tax rate affects whether people can afford to stay in their homes.

Amidst this tough budget year, we are also working towards updating our Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP). This document will shape what Orange County will look like over the next 30 years.

Our past leaders who formulated the latest CLUP made thoughtful decisions to guide Orange County’s growth. Their approach reflected the values and priorities of the community thirty years ago, resulting in 84% of our land being conserved. At the same time, we have to acknowledge some unintended consequences and outcomes. Over the past two decades, we’ve seen a decline in Black residents and fewer young adults choosing to stay in Orange County. These trends are indicators that those choices are not working for everyone.

As we revise our Comprehensive Land Use Plan, our focus is on learning from those outcomes and ensuring our policies align with the six priorities in our Strategic Plan (adopted on February 20, 2024). The priorities in the plan are Environmental Protection and Climate Action, a Healthy Community, Housing for All, Multi-modal Transportation, Public Education/Learning Community, and a Diverse and Vibrant Economy. These are the objectives we will be focused on as we make funding decisions.

As we move forward, I’m focused on protecting those most at risk, low income long-time homeowners, seniors, people with disabilities, and families already feeling stretched too thin. I’m also pushing for solutions that support our workforce. That includes exploring a down payment assistance pilot for county employees and looking at rental support options because the people who serve this community should be able to live here.

At the end of the day, housing affordability, tax equity, and responsible budgeting are all connected. It’s going to take discipline, transparency, and some tough decisions as we move forward.

Potential Property Tax Relief from NCGA

I’ve been following the state-level discussions around capping how much counties can increase property taxes. I understand our legislators are responding to real concerns from residents who are feeling the pressure. On the surface, a cap sounds like a simple solution, especially for seniors and those on fixed incomes.

But a broad, statewide cap can create unintended consequences and limit a county’s ability to fund essential services like schools, public safety, and the very programs that support the people we’re trying to protect.

Through my work with the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, advocacy has focused on targeted relief. That means strengthening relief programs like the Homestead Exclusion so they better reflect today’s cost of living. And fixing the Circuit Breaker program. Right now, the tax deferral component of the Circuit Breaker program can create real challenges for families trying to hold onto inherited property. In some cases, heirs are forced to sell just to cover deferred tax burdens.

We believe targeted, thoughtful policy changes will do more to protect vulnerable residents than broad caps ever could.

Leadership Transitions in the NC Senate

I also want to take a moment to recognize an important transition in our state delegation.

Senator Graig Meyer has concluded his service in the North Carolina Senate. I want to express my sincere appreciation for his years of dedication to public education, equity, and community wellbeing. His leadership has made a meaningful difference for Orange County residents.

I’m pleased to welcome Senator Jonah Garson. Jonah and I served together as officers in the Orange County Democratic Party, and I’ve seen firsthand his commitment to grassroots organizing and community‑centered leadership. Following his tenure here in Orange County, Jonah was elected Vice Chair of the state party where he has been a valued member of the dynamic new leadership of the North Carolina Party. Jonah brings his experience, energy, and wisdom to his new role. I look forward to working with him during this pivotal budget year.

***Wil Crabtree****, Former FFA Student, Ryan’s friend, and Durham Firefighter*

Last week, I attended the 80th Central Piedmont Junior Livestock Show. Being there reminded me why Orange County is such a special place. I ran into one of my son’s school friends, Wil Crabtree. Wil is a former Future Farmers of America student who is now a Durham firefighter. Catching up with him and watching the excitement among the 4‑H and FFA youth as they talked with one another and tended to their animals shows how these programs shape young people long after they leave the show ring.

The next evening, at the Night of Poetry hosted by Orange County Schools, students shared original work that was thoughtful, brave, and deeply personal. They were guided and recognized by our very own North Carolina Poet Laureate, Jaki Shelton Green, whose encouragement made the night even more meaningful.

***Jaki Shelton Green****, NC Poet Laureate*

*Cedar Ridge Poet Laureate* ***Avery Catalano*** *with* ***Dr. Jones****, Superintendent and* ***Jaki Shelton Green****, NC Poet Laureate*

*All Poetry Students from OCS and Cedar Ridge HS*

These two back‑to‑back events capture the full spectrum of who we are as a county and especially how much county‑supported programs matter. From school partnerships to agricultural extension, from youth development to community facilities, county services touch nearly every part of daily life here in Orange County. Spending time with young people at the livestock show, reconnecting with someone who grew up alongside my son, and then hearing students share their poetry with Jaki Shelton Green reminded me what’s at stake.

As always, I am here to serve you. Please reach out if you have questions or concerns you feel are not being addressed.

Yours in service,

April Update

The Headwinds Facing Orange County

Potential Property Tax Relief from NCGA

Leadership Transitions in the NC Senate

March Update