CHARLESTON — Homeowners shouldn’t expect any increases to their next property tax bill as City Council advanced a nearly $381 million budget for 2026 .

The spending plan is Charleston’s largest ever — a 9-percent increase over this year's $349 million budget . It funds both the city’s general operation and supports popular city-owned spaces like the City Market and Joseph P. Riley Jr. Ballpark, both of which are projected to bring in less revenue next year.

A final vote is slated for Dec. 16 after passing a first reading unanimously this week. It takes effect Jan. 1. Unlike most other governments, the city operates on a calendar year budget.

The 2026 spending plan includes a 3 percent cost-of-living adjustment for all city employees, half of which will be offset by rising health ca

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