Small turnout for big budget hearing

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The City of Wilmington recommended a 3.75-cent property tax increase to help make up its $5.7 million deficit. The increase would cost the average homeowner about $6 more per month.

Tuesday City Council held a public hearing to let citizens voice their concerns but very few showed up to speak. Those who did speak represented agencies that will not receive the funding they requested because of the budget shortfall.

“For what we give this community, will you support having an art museum,” said Cameron Art Museum Director Deborah Velders. “Because for 50 years it’s been on the shoulders of you, me, private citizens, foundations, corporations, businesses. It’s been on everyone’s shoulders.”

The Cameron Art Museum asked for $100,000 for its public programs, but in the proposed budget, Cameron won’t receive any money. The city will hold its next budget workshop Monday at the Wilmington Police Department.