Durham, N.C. - Durham County residents are invited to give their feedback on budget priorities as Durham County staff, management, and Durham Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) plan for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 annual budget. Durham County Government has established an easy-to-use budget portal to collect input from residents.

Portal entries will be collected via the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Resident Budget Survey, available now and closing on Friday, May 30, 2025.

Resident participation in the budgeting process is key to deciding Durham County's operational, personnel, and capital spending. The portal is a convenient way for citizens to voice their budget concerns, needs, and priorities. The Resident Budget Survey includes 17 main questions that require responses on a Likert Scale of poor to outstanding. There is also an open-ended section where Community Members may give their feedback on any topic.

The budget portal is open to all, including local business owners. Find it at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FY2025-26DCOResidentSurvey.

Durham County Budget and Management staff will present the responses to the survey to the Board to guide their decision-making as they set the priorities for the FY 25-26 budget. The input gathered from the portal will offer an understanding of what is and is not a budget priority to residents. The input from survey-takers will also be posted to a dashboard found on the Durham County Budget and Management Services website.

"We want to hear from YOU! This is your chance to have a real impact on how your hard-earned tax dollars are spent," said Board Chair Nida Allam. "This portal isn't just another form; it's a powerful tool for your voice to be heard! Whether it's funding for schools, public transit, public safety, or community programs, your input helps guide the future of our county. Don't miss this opportunity to speak up, share your ideas, and participate in the process. Let's build the best Durham County together!"

County Manager Claudia Hager is scheduled to deliver the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Manager's Recommended Budget during the Board's Regular Session meeting on Monday, May 12, 2025.

The Commissioners will hold Budget Work Sessions on:

Tuesday, May 20 at 9 a.m.

Thursday, May 22, at 1 p.m.

Thursday, May 29, at 9 a.m.

Tuesday, June 3, at 9 a.m.

Thursday, June 5, at 1 p.m.

Additionally, the Board of Commissioners will hold the Public Hearing on the Manager's Recommended Budget at its Regular Session at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 27. Rules for Public Comment can be found here.

The BOCC is scheduled to vote on the approval of the 2025-2026 Budget Ordinance at its Regular Session meeting at 7 p.m. on Monday, June 9. Learn more about the BOCC's meetings here.