The Onslow Observer: State Budget, Property Taxes, & More...

Dear Neighbor,

The short session is moving quickly in Raleigh, and much of our focus has been on the issues I hear about most from families across Onslow County: keeping taxes low, supporting our military community, strengthening public safety, and making sure North Carolina remains on solid financial footing.

This month, we've made important progress on the state budget, property tax reform, and legislation to protect the long-term mission of our military installations. I've also continued meeting with local business leaders, healthcare providers, veterans, and community organizations to ensure Onslow County's priorities are represented in the decisions being made at the state level.

As always, I believe good government starts with listening. Thank you for staying engaged and for the opportunity to serve you in the North Carolina Senate. If my office can ever be of assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out.

At your service,

Michael Lazzara

North Carolina Senator

UPDATE ON THE STATE BUDGET

The Senate and the House have reached a budget framework that prioritizes public safety, education, and tax relief for North Carolina families. This plan delivers strong raises for teachers, state troopers, correctional officers, and law enforcement personnel — while keeping our state financially responsible. We’re continuing to invest in the people who serve our communities every day. Additional updates will follow.

MORATORIUM ON PROPERTY TAX REVALUATIONS

North Carolina families are being hit hard by rising property tax bills from their local governments. I was proud to co-sponsor and vote for Senate Bill 889, a temporary pause on 2026 revaluation changes — so taxpayers get some breathing room while we keep working on long-term property tax reform.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO LIMIT PROPERTY TAX INCREASES BY LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

In regard to the aforementioned long-term property tax reform, I also voted to place a constitutional amendment on the ballot to help limit rapid property tax increases and give taxpayers more control over local spending. Onslow County families deserve stability, transparency, and a stronger voice in how their tax dollars are used.

ONSLOW COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS TOWN HALL

Thank you to the Onslow County Chamber of Commerce for hosting a business town hall earlier this month. I appreciated the opportunity to provide a legislative update and, more importantly, hear directly from our local business and community leaders about the issues impacting Onslow County.

PROTECTING OUR MILITARY BASES

I’m proud to file Senate Bill 947 — legislation that stands firmly with our military and protects the mission readiness of North Carolina’s bases.

This bill allows local governments to establish “military influence areas” within five miles of major installations, ensuring new development is coordinated with military leaders and does not interfere with training or operations.

It puts practical safeguards in place — including required coordination with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, notice to base commanders, and common-sense measures to reduce noise and light impacts — while still protecting private property rights.

We’re also bringing local communities and military leaders to the table through a joint land-use study so we can plan for growth the right way — with foresight, not hindsight.

North Carolina is proud to be the nation’s most military friendly state. I will always fight to protect those who serve and the installations that keep our nation safe.

MEETING WITH NORTH CAROLINA PHYSICIANS

It was a pleasure hosting general practitioners with the North Carolina Academy of Family Physicians at my legislative office in Raleigh this month. We had a productive conversation about the challenges facing healthcare providers and the importance of ensuring North Carolinians have access to quality, affordable care close to home. I appreciate their dedication to serving patients across our state.

HOSTING THE ONSLOW COUNTY REPUBLICAN WOMEN AT OUR LEGISLATIVE OFFICE

Earlier this month, I enjoyed welcoming the Onslow County Republican Women to my legislative office in Raleigh. Their hard work and grassroots leadership are critical as we continue electing strong conservative leaders up and down the ballot who will fight to keep North Carolina moving in the right direction. I am grateful for their dedication to our communities, our values, and the future of our state.

CONGRATULATIONS COL. GREGORY PACE!

As a fellow Marine, I want to congratulate Col. Gregory Pace on assuming command of Marine Corps Installations East, which includes Camp Lejeune. I know the dedication and leadership this responsibility requires, and I look forward to working together in support of our Marines, military families, and Eastern North Carolina communities.

I also want to thank BGen Ralph Rizzo, Jr. for his honorable service and outstanding leadership at MCIEAST. His commitment to strengthening our installations, improving facilities, and supporting Onslow County will leave a lasting legacy.

Semper Fi.

SPEAKING AT THE CAROLINA CREDIT UNION LEAGUE'S "STATE HOUSE DAY"

It was an honor to speak with credit union leaders from across the state for the Carolina Credit Union League’s first-ever NC State House Day. These institutions play a vital role in strengthening our communities and expanding opportunity for hardworking families.

I appreciate the partnership as we work together to keep North Carolina financially strong. Looking forward to continuing this important conversation.