By Emily Ford
eford@salisburypost.com
SPENCER ó The Spencer Board of Aldermen will hold a budget workshop Tuesday night at the end of a regular monthly meeting.
The board meets at 7 p.m. in Town Hall.
Like many North Carolina towns and cities, Spencer faces a budget shortfall next year when the townís tax base will decline 8 percent ó from $211 million to $194 million ó due to Rowan Countyís revaluation process.
To bring in the same amount of revenue next year, the town would have to increase its 60-cent tax rate to 65.6 cents per $100 valuation.
Even then, the town would still face a deficit of $131,761. Aldermen have not yet set a tax rate and likely will discuss the issue Tuesday.
Aldermen made a variety of cuts at their first budget workshop and have several more under consideration. Spencer may curtail backyard garbage pick-up and could begin charging fees to use town-owned ballparks and picnic shelters, although board members have said they are not in favor of charging a fee to Little League.
Also on Tuesdayís agenda:
Public hearing on an ordinance amendment (11-02 signage)
Reports from town departments, town manager, mayor and committees.
Public Comment
Stakeholders Report from RowanWorks Economic Development
FaÁade grant request from 111 Fifth St.
Senior Services overview
FaÁade grant policy
Discussion of solid waste collection
Ordinance amendment (11-04 leaf and brush collection)
Set date for public hearing on 2011-12 budget
Contact reporter Emily Ford at 704-797-4264.