Newsroom

Due to COVID-19, the 2020 Census response deadline has been extended to late October. Salisbury residents are still asked to respond as soon as possible via the Census website at 2020Census.gov.

Data received from the Census affects communities for 10 years. With $675 billion federal dollars at stake for things like schools, road construction, hospitals, workforce initiatives and substance abuse programs, Rowan County still has a long way to go to ensure it secures its fair share.

The $46,003,307 balanced General Fund budget reflects a 3.17% decrease in spending from the FY20 adopted budget due to expected shortages related to COVID-19. In addition to the General Fund, the Water/Sewer Fund, Transit Fund, Broadband Fund, and Stormwater Fund comprise the overall City budget totaling $82,528,220. This total sum also includes Special Revenue Funds (CDBG & HOME) and Capital Reserve Funds. Bailey proposes maintaining the current tax rate of $0.7196 for the fiscal year as to not burden the Salisbury community in the midst of economic challenges.

Mayor Karen Alexander declared a state of emergency for the City of Salisbury related to the COVID-19 virus (Coronavirus), following a similar declaration by Rowan County. The declaration authorizes the City to apply for financial assistance related to preparation, response and recovery of COVID-19 if needed through state or federal agencies.

To help aid preventative measures of spreading COVID-19, we strongly encourage all visitors to utilize online or phone services as an alternative to face-to-face interactions. We have options for our departments and our bill pay.

To help aid preventative measures of spreading COVID-19, and following the guidance of recent coronavirus advisories provided by federal, state and Rowan County Public Health and other agencies, there will be closings, postponements and cancellations. Please read more to see the list, and check back for updates at salisburync.gov/closings.

The City of Salisbury will operate on the following schedule for the Presidents’ Day holiday, Monday, Feb. 17.

Salisbury City Manager W. Lane Bailey has received the John Whitehurst Service Award at the North Carolina City & County Management Association (NCCCMA) Winter Seminar in Winston-Salem, for his service and dedication to local government management. The award, only given when exceptional candidates are presented, was developed “to honor North Carolina managers who follow Whitehurst’s example of consistency and diligence in his support of all local government professionals.”