WENDELL — The Wendell Town Board of Commissioners could vote to approve the budget as early as May 23.
Wendell Town Manager Marc Collins delivered a presentation at Monday’s board meeting for the 2022-23 fiscal year. The budget, balanced at $27,582,426, will maintain the same property tax rate as last year at .47. The budget includes numerous projects, such as the Wendell Boulevard Pedestrian Project, neighborhood improvement programs and street resurfacing.
The budget also allows for numerous town employee benefits, including a 5% cost of living allowance, a 2% in-range adjustment and nine additional positions to maintain service levels while reducing burnout. 
“I’m certainly excited about it,” Wendell Mayor Pro Tem Jason Joyner said. “The budget has been a focus of mine since I became a part of the council in 2015. It’s encouraging that we’re able to do a ton of capital work as the town continues to grow without raising taxes on the community.”
The budget will be voted on during the next town board meeting, scheduled for May 23 at 7 p.m. No public comments were made in Monday’s meeting.
The board also recognized East Wake High School’s girls track and field team in honor of its undefeated season.