Laurinburg · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Laurinburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Purchasing policy and minority participation requirements
The state repealed Historically Underutilized Business requirements in its July budget, so the city had to scrub them from its purchasing policy to stay compliant. Officials stressed that minority- and women-owned businesses remain eligible to bid — only the outreach mandate is gone.
FY 2026-2027 City Budget
Senate Bill 474 failed concurrence and Scotland County locked in last year's tax values, forcing the city to delay its full budget — including the planned tax rate cut from 40 to 38 cents — until July 21. A November ballot amendment could further cap future tax rate increases.
Hillside Cemetery Improvements
Ordinance O-2026-14 would fund a road at Hillside Cemetery and a cemetery equipment shed, with completion expected next fiscal year.
FY 2026-27 Budget Input and Retreat
A public hearing is set for June 16, 2026, at 6 p.m. so residents can weigh in on next year's city budget before adoption.