Those who live in Rocky Mount are looking at increased
utility bills after a serious financial crisis was uncovered in a recent review
of the budget. The city was found to have spent millions more than it brought
in on a monthly basis for over two years.
For residents, this will mean a bump in natural gas and
electricity rates. Estimates put the increase at about $20 monthly for natural
gas for the typical household. An $8 monthly increase for electricity is
expected, according to a release from the city.
“I know this is tough—my heart’s heavy too—but I believe in
this community,” Rocky Mount Mayor Sandy Roberson said. “We’ll get through this
together and come out stronger.”
The city “spent millions more each month than it
received,” according to a review by city manager Elton Daniels. In
response to Daniels’ findings, the city said it will reduce spending by at
least $30 million over the next 10 months. The move includes freezing
non-essential projects, pausing capital initiatives, and reducing staff, with
at least 10% of full-time employees and half of part-time staff facing layoffs.
“These findings are troubling, and the city is hiring an
independent forensic accounting firm to further investigate,” Daniels said. “We
will share those results publicly when we can.”
Former city manager Keith Rodgers Jr. resigned
in August 2024 after taking the job in March 2023. His resignation came
after the city council voted to place Rodgers on administrative leave. The city
said some council members became suspicious in 2023 over city management.