Citizens group to unveil tax, spending analysis

DUANE CROSS
MCO Publisher•Editor

Moore County residents are invited to a public meeting on Thursday, Feb. 5, at 6:30 p.m. at the American Legion Building at 119 Booneville Rd. in Lynchburg. At the meeting, a new citizens group will share its research on property taxes, government spending, and the county’s long-term financial outlook.

The Moore County Concerned Citizens Focus Group started in August 2025 in response to several local issues. These include the visual and possible long-term effects of the solar farm, ongoing odors from the digester, aging infrastructure, and repeated property tax increases. Organizers say their goal is to encourage responsible use of taxpayer money, promote transparency in public finances, and support informed civic engagement.

The core group includes longtime Lynchburg residents Regina Adcock, District 2 Metro Council member Robert Bracewell, Hampton Hoffman, and Keith Moses. Members emphasize the effort is not intended to assign blame to current officials but to work collaboratively with citizens and local leaders toward sustainable budgeting, responsible spending, and long-term financial planning that could reduce reliance on repeated property tax increases.

Financial Trends Under Review

According to the group, a review of official county and state financial records from 2005 through 2024 indicates that property tax collections increased by nearly 70% above inflation, while population grew by roughly 11% over the same period. Even after adjusting for inflation, homeowners are paying property taxes that are more than 58% higher than in 2005, the group said.

The group estimates that if property taxes had increased only with inflation, Moore County would have collected about $4.9 million in 2024, rather than the roughly $8.1 million reported.

The group also found that combined government and school spending went up nearly 37% above inflation. Total net expenses increased by about $6.56 million over the inflation-adjusted baseline – a 29.6% rise. Members said they are still collecting and reviewing more financial records and will share updated findings with the public.

Goals and Next Steps

Organizers outlined several initial priorities:

• Document and analyze official county financial data to identify opportunities for cost control, efficiency, and strategic revenue planning.

• Inform and engage residents about the county’s budget and financial condition.

• Expand participation in the focus group.

• Encourage fiscally responsible budgeting and spending decisions by county leaders and elected officials.

The group has compiled more than 20 years of financial data and is developing a website for Moore County voters. The site will offer access to financial information, public polling tools, and a place for comments and suggestions. A test version is expected this month, with updates to follow based on community feedback.

The group is already holding monthly meetings. At Thursday’s session, they will provide an overview of their financial analysis and preview the new website.

Organizers say that community participation is key to shaping Moore County’s financial future and ensuring transparency, accountability, and long-term stability.