The Town of Smithfield has released its Proposed Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Budget, outlining continued investments in public safety, infrastructure, parks and recreation, and utility services while maintaining a focus on responsible financial management.

Interim Town Manager Kimberly Pickett presented the proposed budget to the Mayor and Town Council during the May 19 Town Council Meeting. The budget serves as the Town’s primary financial planning document for the upcoming fiscal year and reflects the Town’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality services while keeping taxes and fees as reasonable as possible.

A public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in Town Hall Council Chambers.

The proposed budget includes several key priorities and investments across multiple departments:

• Continued street resurfacing efforts with approximately $900,000 budgeted for roadway improvements
• Addition of three Battalion Chief positions within the Fire Department
• Addition of a Facility Maintenance Worker in the Parks and Recreation Department
• Capital improvements and equipment purchases for parks and recreation facilities
• Continued investments in water, sewer, and electric infrastructure
• Funding set aside for future public safety equipment and vehicle replacements

The budget also maintains current water, sewer, sanitation, and yard waste rates for Fiscal Year 2027. While Johnston County has announced a recommended increase in wholesale sewer treatment rates, the Town is not currently proposing changes to water or sewer rates. Town officials noted that utility rate studies will be conducted in the coming months to evaluate future needs.

Smithfield’s electric utility continues to remain financially stable despite rising wholesale power costs. Over the past six years, electric rates and fees have been reduced three times while maintaining reliable service for customers.

The proposed budget reflects the Town’s strong financial position, including healthy fund balances across the General Fund and utility enterprise funds. Town officials stated the budget was prepared conservatively and continues Smithfield’s long-standing practice of balancing operational needs with fiscal responsibility.

Additional highlights in the proposed budget include:

• $152,500 in parks and recreation capital improvements
• $122,500 in Aquatic Center improvements in partnership with Johnston County Public Schools
• Investments in water and sewer infrastructure upgrades, including lift station repairs, mapping improvements, and AMI-Nexgrid integration
• $900,000 for electric system materials and infrastructure needs
• Continued support for the Smithfield Public Library, Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation, Ava Gardner Museum, and local schools

Town officials also noted the continued success of Smithfield’s nationally accredited Police Department and ongoing efforts to maintain competitive employee salaries and benefits to support recruitment and retention across Town departments.

The proposed FY 2026–2027 budget is also available for public inspection through the Town Clerk’s Office.