BEAUFORT, S.C. – (May 16, 2025) At its regular meeting on May 13, the Beaufort City Council passed the first reading of the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Budget, marking a key step in the annual budget process. The proposed $73.1 million consolidated budget outlines the City’s continued commitment to strategic investments in infrastructure, public safety, and responsible financial stewardship. The consolidated budget includes capital projects of $28.4 million.
Residents are invited to explore the recommended FY26 budget in greater detail through the City’s OpenGov platform, which provides a transparent and interactive overview of revenues, expenditures, and priorities for the coming fiscal year.
A detailed budget presentation was also shared during the meeting to highlight proposed departmental funding, capital projects, and long-term goals.
Highlights
- The recommended millage rate remains flat at 73.9.
- $100K budgeted for housing repair assistance
- A 3% cost-of-living adjustment for employees with an additional up to 2.5% one-time merit bonus
- Absorption of a 9% increase in employee health care coverage
- Funding for strategic partners including the Beaufort/Port Royal Convention & Visitors Bureau, Beaufort Digital Corridor, South Coast Cyber Center and Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation.
- 1 new full-time employee, a Fire Inspector
- Purchase of a $1.1M fire truck
Capital Projects
The City has numerous capital projects underway or scheduled to begin in FY26. These projects are budgeted for $28.4 million and include:
- Improvements to Southside Park, Washington Street Park, and 1st South Carolina Volunteers Park
- Stormwater drainage projects on King Street, Bayard Street, Charles/Craven and Port Republic/Carteret streets
- Engineering for Waterfront Park Relieving Platform
- Improvements to the walls and windows at The Arsenal
- Duke Street Streetscape and Drainage
Next Steps:
- Tuesday, May 20: City Council will hold a budget work session to further discuss the FY26 budget.
MondayTuesday, June 10: The second reading and final vote will take place at the regular City Council meeting.
To access the recommended FY26 budget, visit OpenGov Beaufort click here to access.
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