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LOUISBURG -- Interim County Manager Ryan Preble, on Monday, proposed a budget that keeps the tax rate unchanged, increases employee ranks and pay, raises utility rates and proposes to spend $9.2 million more than the current fiscal year.
The school system requested a total of $34.7 million in current and capital expense funding.
Preble proposed $32.5 million -- $30.5 million for current expenses and $2 million for capital outlay.

LOUISBURG -- Franklin County commissioners agreed to Louisburg's asking price for two pieces of property that are critical to their plans to develop its judicial complex.
The $280,000 appraised value is $154,000 more than the tax assessed value -- a proposition for which Commissioner Harry Foy expressed heartburn.
He cast the lone dissenting vote during Monday night's meeting of the Franklin County Board of Commissioners.

YOUNGSVILLE -- Youngsville hosted its big sesquicentennial blowout last Saturday, but celebrating 150 years of history was only part of the fun.
"This isn't just a celebration of time, it's a celebration of people," Mayor Fonzie Flowers said, prior to a fireworks display that capped off a day-long list of activities and festivities that were part of the town's 150-year birthday celebration.
"Today is not only a time to look back, but a time to look around," Flowers said. "It's a time to appreciate those who keep our town thriving."

LOUISBURG -- Franklin County has selected Spencer Pernell as its new Solid Waste Director, replacing Lee Bodenhamer, who is retiring.
Pernell began his Franklin County career on May 21.
"I'm excited to join Franklin County and continue the progress that Lee has been working on," Pernell said.

LOUISBURG -- Franklin County's dog park is getting some shading and more seating after all, county staff said.
The county unveiled its dog park at Pilot Lions Park in March and, immediately, folks who fought for the park lamented a lack of seating and shade -- amenities that were identified in the county's initial plans for the park.

Charmian Payne at Senior Fun Day