BY MILES LAYTON

COLUMBIA — The Columbia Board of Aldermen has adopted the town’s fiscal year 2025-26 budget, approving a financial plan totaling $825,640—a modest increase over last year’s $760,258—without raising taxes or utility rates. The budget for fiscal year 2025-26 took effect July 1.

The new budget reflects a reduced property tax rate of $0.54 per $100 of assessed valuation, down from $0.72, a shift resulting from a recent countywide property revaluation. Despite the lower rate, town officials say the revenue will remain stable thanks to increased property values.

“There’s no tax increase, and there’s no change in the water and sewer rates,” said Mayor Sandra Owens, who assumed the mayoral role earlier this year following the death of Mayor James Cahoon in January. “We’re keeping services steady while continuing to make significant investments in our infrastructure.”

The approved budget maintains current water and sewer rates, even as the town moves forward with a $14 million water and sewer improvement project, funded largely through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocations. The infrastructure overhaul represents one of the most substantial capital improvement efforts in Columbia’s recent history.

Town Manager Rhett White said the water/sewer investment “will ensure long-term reliability of our public utilities,” noting the town operates its own water and wastewater systems independently.

In addition to utility work, the town is also investing in boardwalk and waterfront improvements along the Scuppernong River. These enhancements are being supported by funding from the Harbor Towns Ferry initiative, a regional effort aimed at developing fast ferry connections and expanding local tourism.

Leadership Transition

Owens, who previously served as mayor pro tempore, stepped into the mayor’s role in January after the passing of Mayor Cahoon. She will complete his unexpired term, which ends in December 2025, and has not announced whether she intends to seek election for a full term.

“Mayor Cahoon loved this town and worked tirelessly on behalf of its residents,” Owens said during a recent meeting. “It’s been an honor to continue his work.”

On that note, Owens is planning to sign the line when she files next week to run for mayor.

“I have was born and raised in Columbia, so I hold it dear to my heart as did Mayor Cahoon.  He and I were friends from first grade through graduation and we served together in so many things in the community,” she said. ” I told everyone when I stepped in to finish out his term, that I could not fill this position without everyones help, and that still stands if I win in the upcoming election.  I want what is best for EVERYONE in Columbia not just a few.”

The next mayoral election will be held in November, with Owens continuing to serve until the end of December.

To fill the vacancy created by Owens’ shift to the mayor’s role, the Board of Aldermen in June appointed Lloyd Armstrong, a former Alderman, to serve the remaining two years of her original term.

Armstrong brings past experience to the table, having served on the board in prior years. His return adds stability to the town’s leadership at a time of significant growth and infrastructure activity.

Budget Overview

While Columbia’s budget is modest in size compared to larger municipalities, it is designed to be lean and efficient. The increase from last year’s $760,258 to this year’s $825,640 accounts for inflation, modest increases in operating costs, and administrative adjustments.

Despite the increased overall budget, town officials emphasized that no new taxes or fees were imposed on residents or businesses.

“We’re committed to fiscal responsibility,” Owens said. “This budget reflects our priorities—maintaining essential services, improving infrastructure, and preparing for growth—without putting additional strain on taxpayers.”

Looking Ahead

With millions of dollars in public works underway and a new chapter of leadership in motion, Columbia is positioning itself as a small town on the rise, balancing its rural character with forward-thinking investments.

Tourism is expected to benefit from the Harbor Towns Ferry project, which could bring a new wave of visitors via fast ferries and potentially a dinner boat service, enhancing the town’s visibility across the region.

Town officials said the ferry-related upgrades, including expanded boardwalk access and docking facilities, are expected to be completed in phases over the next year.

For now, Columbia’s residents can expect continued stability in public services, no new tax burdens, and visible improvements to the town’s infrastructure and waterfront—all without a penny more out of pocket.