Wake County is committed to excellence in our day-to-day operations. We provide excellent customer service, retain a high-performing workforce, and uphold the highest standards in financial management. Through community engagement, we ensure our practices meet the needs of the people we serve.
The county identified four strategic goals in the Foundations of Service focus area. We encourage you to explore each goal to understand our rationale, view community and key performance indicators, and find links to other comprehensive plans and resources.
Goal 1: Maintain the County’s AAA bond ratings through 2029.
Rationale:
Wake County prides itself on being committed to fiscal responsibility and financial integrity. Through prudent financial management and thoughtful decision-making, we are recognized with the highest credit rating from all three rating agencies (Fitch, Moody’s, S&P).
These ratings measure the County’s financial health and are maintained through disciplined adherence to sound financial policies and guidelines. High credit ratings signal to investors that Wake County can meet its financial commitments, enabling it to borrow funds at the most competitive, low-interest rates available—which minimizes the financial burden on taxpayers. By securing funds at minimal costs, local governments can invest more in public services, enhancing residents’ quality of life while demonstrating a commitment to stewardship of public resources and long-term economic sustainability.
Wake County actively monitors the key metrics to safeguard the County’s creditworthiness in an ever-changing economic landscape. The County is one of 53 counties in the United States with the highest credit rating from all three agencies and one of 6 counties in North Carolina.
Supporting Indicators and Metrics:
| Indicator | FY 2025 | FY 2026 | FY 2027 | FY 2028 | FY 2029 | FY 2030 | FY 2031 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Fund balance ratio (Target, ≥ 30%) |
37.9% | 36.5% | 37.6% | 37.8% | 36.6% | 34.4% | 32.1% |
|
Percent of debt paid in 10 years (Target, ≥ 70%) |
71% | 70% | 71% | 71% | 72% | 72% | 73% |
|
Debt/assessed value ratio (Target, ≤ 1.75%) |
0.98% | 1.05% | 1.13% | 1.20% | 1.12% | 1.12% | 1.11% |
Note: Metrics are based on the Debt and Capital Update presented at the Board of Commissioners work session on April 8, 2024.
Comprehensive Plans and Key Resources:
- Facilities Master Plans (multiple)
- Long Range Financial Plans (i.e., special revenue funds)
- Wake County Debt Model
Goal 2: Increase overall employee satisfaction to 90% by 2029.
Rationale:
We will measure and elevate employee satisfaction for Wake County to support an effective and engaged workforce. By nurturing a culture of transparency, respect, and inclusivity, Wake County will foster a workplace where communication and collaboration are in full view and evident. Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits will reflect the value placed on employees' contributions and well-being in and outside the workplace.
Offering robust professional development and training opportunities empowers staff with the skills and knowledge to excel, fostering innovation and adaptability. Wake County will invest in modern, cost-effective facilities, technology, vehicles, and equipment that enable employees to perform their duties efficiently. A satisfied workforce attracts and retains top talent, which translates into higher productivity and improved services for the community, residents, and visitors.
Supporting Indicators and Metrics:
| Indicator | CY 2020 | CY 2021 | CY 2022 | CY 2023 | Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employee Turnover Rate | 11.6% | 16.3% | 15.5% | 12.3% | Feb 2024 |
Comprehensive Plans and Key Resources:
- Enterprise Risk Management Plan
- Organizational Assessment
Goal 3: By 2029, 10% more residents will agree that Wake County provides high-quality, fair, and equitable services.
Rationale:
At the core of Wake County, the focus is on the people it serves. A proactive approach to providing user-friendly, efficient services that exceed expectations is critical, as is adapting to meet residents' ever-changing needs. With a focus on fairness, service equity and addressing barriers, Wake County ensures that every resident, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the support and resources they need.
The Board of Commissioners is committed to continuous improvement and effective policies and procedures that best serve constituents. Through continuous process improvement, Wake County adapts and evolves, making services more efficient, responsive, and tailored to meet the needs of a growing and diverse population. This includes examining existing processes and methods, finding innovative solutions, and incorporating new technologies to provide the best customer service in all operational areas.
Supporting Indicators and Metrics:
Comprehensive Plans and Key Resources:
- Blueprint to Dismantle Systemic Racism (2022)
- Enterprise Risk Management Plan
- Non-Discrimination Ordinance
- Organizational Assessment
Goal 4: By 2029, increase by 10% the percentage of residents who agree that Wake County does a good job engaging residents and gathering public input.
Rationale:
Wake County is a community where every resident feels heard and valued and is invested in shaping decisions that impact our collective future. Engaging residents and gathering public input are essential for creating policies that reflect the community’s needs and aspirations. Engagement empowers the voice of those who might otherwise go unheard and fosters a sense of belonging, enabling them to contribute to their well-being.
Creating community partnerships with local organizations and governments amplifies the reach and effectiveness of critical initiatives and can leverage expertise, talent, and resources, leading to new solutions and stronger, more resilient communities. Together, these practices ensure that governance is not just a top-down approach but a shared responsibility toward enriching the lives of all community members.
Supporting Indicators and Metrics:
