The City Council approved the City Manager’s Recommended Budget for Fiscal Year 2027 on May 14, keeping the property tax rate at $1.14 per $100 of assessed value.
The adopted budget totals $708,640,649, representing a 4.3% increase from the previous fiscal year. Of this amount, Hampton City Schools will receive $327,998,571. The city’s contribution to schools is set at $101,902,502 under its funding formula—$40,663,060 above the state-required match of $61,239,442.
The real estate tax rate remains unchanged after four years of reductions from a previous rate of $1.22. The city manager determines adjustments to the tax rate based on annual changes in property assessments. General Fund revenues are projected to grow by 4.3%, mainly due to higher real estate assessments and increases in other general property taxes as well as state and federal revenue and service charges. Expenditures are rising because of inflationary pressures and increased demand for services.
According to the official website, Hampton operates under a council-manager form of government with policy direction set by the council and daily operations managed by an appointed city manager.
Mary Bunting’s budget team developed the proposal after gathering input from residents through public meetings and an online survey as part of the I Value campaign; two public meetings were also held where community members gave feedback on the proposed budget.
During its legislative session on Wednesday night, Council also approved permits for a day care program at West End Baptist Church on Shell Road and allowed development of a multi-family dwelling with four one-bedroom units on Victoria Boulevard. In addition, Council approved the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Annual Action Plan for Fiscal Years 2026-27 following an earlier work session presentation.
Mayor Jimmy Gray issued proclamations recognizing several causes including lupus awareness month and National Public Works Week as well as marking milestones such as the Women’s Club of Hampton centennial anniversary.
A Spotlight ceremony before the legislative session honored 69 Hampton City Schools seniors who earned associate degrees through dual enrollment before receiving their high school diplomas; Mayor Gray said these students saved a combined total of $730,457 in college tuition by earning credits while still in high school.
Hampton has influenced American history through education initiatives and technological innovation while serving as home to diverse neighborhoods and cultural attractions such as Fort Monroe National Monument according to the official history page. The next scheduled City Council meeting is set for Wednesday, May 27.
