Residents in Robbins will see lower property taxes for another year after town commissioners approved a one-cent reduction in the property tax rate as part of the town’s fiscal year 2027 budget.
The Robbins tax rate decrease marks the sixth consecutive year the town has lowered its property tax rate. The new rate will be set at 68 cents per $100 of property valuation, continuing a gradual effort to return closer to pre-Hurricane Florence levels. The town increased taxes following the 2018 storm to help cover recovery and repair costs.
The approved budget totals approximately $2.19 million, an increase of about $60,000 over the current year’s budget. Town officials also included a three percent pay raise for employees, along with an additional two percent performance-based increase tied to annual evaluations.
Trash Fees Increase as Costs Rise
While property taxes are decreasing, some residents may notice higher sanitation costs. Town leaders approved an increase in monthly trash collection fees, citing rising fuel prices and higher operational expenses within the sanitation department.
Officials said the increase is necessary to offset a 21 percent rise in sanitation-related costs experienced during the current fiscal year.
Meanwhile, water rates will remain unchanged. Town leaders expect growth from new housing developments and townhome projects to add roughly 100 new water customers over the next year, helping strengthen the utility fund.
New Rules for Backyard Chickens
Commissioners also approved a long-delayed ordinance governing the ownership of chickens within town limits.
The new rules allow residents to keep chickens provided they are housed in a coop located in the backyard and positioned at least 30 feet from neighboring residences. Chickens must remain enclosed and may not roam freely throughout neighborhoods.
The board amended the ordinance before approval, allowing households to keep up to 20 chickens and one rooster.
Town officials say the regulations were prompted by resident interest and ongoing nuisance complaints involving loose chickens and noisy roosters.
The ordinance provides clear guidelines while allowing residents to continue raising backyard chickens responsibly within Robbins.
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