Interim Cary Town Manager Russ Overton proposed on May 14 a $573.5 million budget for Fiscal Year 2027, including more than $112 million in new and ongoing public safety investments. The proposal covers the period from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.
The recommended budget includes funding for additional police officers, firefighters, and emergency operators as well as the design of two new fire stations in western Cary. These measures represent what Overton described as “the single largest amount of support for public safety in Cary in decades.” The plan also sets out a three-year approach to address staffing and capital needs while aiming to provide predictability regarding property tax rates and fees.
“My proposed budget reflects Council priorities, the input of our advisory boards, feedback from the community, and the Town’s biggest needs as identified by Town directors and supervisors,” said Overton. “It’s the product of a thoughtful and collaborative process grounded in Cary’s longstanding commitment to planning, stewardship, and service excellence that residents expect and desire.”
Of the total budget amount, $445.9 million is allocated to operations while $127.6 million will fund capital projects—over half of which is designated for maintaining existing parks, streets, and other amenities. In response to challenges stemming from actions by a former town manager, Overton’s proposal places renewed emphasis on financial accountability by adding two positions within the Finance department to improve oversight.
“We must ensure that our financial practices, internal controls, and Council decision-making processes meet the highest standards of transparency and responsibility,” said Overton. “This budget includes the addition of two positions within our Finance department to enhance internal capacity… We will also continue refining policies and procedures to help ensure more consistency…in how public funds are managed.” To support these initiatives alongside other services outlined in his plan, property taxes would rise by 3.75 cents per $100 valuation—about $20 more per month for an average home—while solid waste fees would increase by $2 monthly; utility rates would see a four percent base rate increase.
Departments reduced their initial requests by over $60 million before arriving at these proposed increases. Even so—and despite cuts—Overton said residents should expect further increases over coming years: “My recommended budget reflects the first year of a three-year approach… Staff has carefully evaluated…needs… However,the full scope …exceeds what can be responsibly addressed in a single year.”
The proposed budget was presented during today’s Quarterly Meeting at Herb Young Community Center; it was live-streamed and recorded for public access. Residents are invited to comment during official hearings scheduled for May 28 or June 11 prior to council voting on June 25.
