Mocksville residents have an opportunity to take part in shaping the town’s future financial priorities. Join Mayor Will Marklin, the Board of Commissioners, and Town staff for the FY2025-2026 Budget Retreat on Saturday, February 15th, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Mocksville Education Building, 201 Salisbury Street. This public meeting will provide insight into how the town’s budget aligns with its long-term goals and vision for growth.
The Importance of Strategic Planning
A strong Strategic Plan helps guide Mocksville’s progress by setting clear priorities for sustainable development.
“A Strategic Plan with a well-defined Mission, Vision, and Goals is essential for controlled and thoughtful growth in the Town of Mocksville,” explained Interim Town Manager Lynn Trivette.
Key benefits of the Strategic Plan include:
- Aligning annual budgets with long-term priorities.
- Anticipating and addressing future challenges proactively.
- Ensuring responsible use of resources to maximize community impact.
“Tying the annual budget to a long-term vision with goals and actions that transcend the annual budget is how we will turn dreams of a better future into reality for Mocksville,” Trivette added.
Get Involved in the Budget Process
Marklin encouraged community members to participate in the retreat, emphasizing transparency and resident engagement:
“Mocksville residents are invited to come out to the annual budget retreat and hear how your elected officials work through the budget requests and come out with a balanced budget to work with over the next year. These discussions are open to the public and answer any questions about where your tax dollars are spent.”
Expanding Walkability with the Sidewalk Connectivity Project
A major infrastructure initiative, the Sidewalk Connectivity Project, is currently in development. Trivette announced that Mocksville is collaborating with an engineering firm to improve pedestrian accessibility. The project will add approximately 4,300 feet of new sidewalks and roadway crossing enhancements, strengthening the town’s walkability.
Planned Sidewalk Expansions:
- Segment 1 – Yadkinville Road (Walgreens to the Roundabout)
- Segment 2 – Wilkesboro Street (Meroney Street to the Roundabout)
- Segment 3 – Meroney Street (Roundabout to the Senior Center sidewalk)
- Segment 4 – Duke Street (South Salisbury Street to future Greenway Trailhead)
Project Benefits
According to Trivette, the Sidewalk Connectivity Project will provide multiple advantages, including:
Increased pedestrian activity and mobility.
Enhanced safety for walkers, including those with disabilities.
Improved access to essential services and recreation areas.
Encouraging a healthier, more walkable community.
Trivette noted that the Town continues to seek grant funding opportunities to help finance infrastructure improvements, ensuring a proactive approach to town development.
Key Economic Indicators Highlight Growth
Mocksville’s continued expansion is evident in various economic trends:
- New commercial, industrial, and retail developments.
- Ongoing major industrial construction and expansions.
- Advancements in planning and zoning, and ongoing infrastructure and utility upgrades..
These factors indicate a thriving local economy and reinforce the importance of strategic budget planning.
What to Expect at the Budget Retreat
The retreat will feature presentations and discussions designed to inform the Board’s decision-making process. Topics include economic trends, revenue forecasts, capital improvements, and department needs for FY2025-2026.
Additionally, department leaders will provide updates on staffing, equipment, and infrastructure priorities, including demonstrations of aging equipment that may require replacement in Public Works, Parks & Grounds, and the Fire Department.
Retreat Agenda
Budget Planning – Lynn Trivette
Economic Development Forecast – Terry Bralley (Davie County EDC)
Infrastructure Updates – Chuck Willis (Willis Engineering)
Water & Sewer Services – Envirolink
Roundtable Discussion & Break
Parks & Grounds Needs – Chris Vaughn
Public Works Overview – Brian Moore
Fire Department Priorities – Chief Frank Carter
Community Development Updates – Jeannette Pitts
Human Resources & Staffing – Emily Quance
Lunch Break
Administrative Planning – Rana Gaither
Final Budget Discussion – Lynn Trivette
Wrap-Up & Q&A – Lynn Trivette
Stay Engaged in the Budget Process
The Budget Retreat is just the beginning. Residents are encouraged to stay involved by attending upcoming Board of Commissioner meetings:
February 4th – Non-Profit Presentations
March 4th – First Draft & Department Requests
April 1st – Second Draft & Adjustments
May 6th – Proposed Budget & Manager’s Message
June 3rd – Public Hearing & Budget Adoption
“We encourage the public to attend these meetings to learn more about what your government does in the community,” Trivette said.
For more information, call (336) 753-6700 or visit www.mocksvillenc.org.