North Carolina general statutes require county governments to adopt a balanced budget by June 30 of each year for the upcoming fiscal year (July 1-June 30). The Annual Operating Budget estimates the total value of resources required to perform county operations. The Annual Operating Budget also sets tax rates and fee schedules for the fiscal year.
The Orange County Budget Division oversees the process, working with each department to prepare its annual request and updating the budget document after the Board of County Commissioners makes its final approval.
Throughout the year, the division monitors the budget, provides guidance to county staff and the Board of Commissioners, and works with departments to prepare budget amendments as circumstances arise.