Cumberland County Budget Drama | Fayetteville News

Cumberland County just approved a massive $666.5 million budget for fiscal year 2027 — a jump over last year and even higher than the county manager recommended — without raising property taxes, instead dipping into reserves. The biggest drama? A fierce fight to protect the Department of Social Services, which ultimately got a funding boost and even staff bonuses to tackle retention. The director voiced frustration over communication and funding gaps, and commissioners rejected cuts to programs like the barbershop health initiative and family wellness services — plus kept pet adoption fees low to encourage more adoptions. Employees are getting raises and bonuses, and the Sheriff’s Office rolled out a new pay structure — all while balancing the books and keeping essential services alive. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a3fc0d510155cfa4