The first two of three public hearings regarding an increase in the city of Pembroke’s millage rage drew no attendees Thursday at City Hall.

Held at noon and 6 p.m., the hearings presented the opportunity for residents to voice their opinions on city officials’ plans to increase the millage rate from 8.359 mills to 10 mills next week.

It will be the first time the city has increased the millage rate since 2008.

According to City Clerk Betty Hill, the millage rate increase is expected to generate about $68,500 for various projects in the city. The tax hike will be applied to all non-exempt real estate property including mobile homes and vehicles, she said.

Projects include improvement to the city pool, updating employee job descriptions and others, Mayor Mary Warnell said. Officials will also work towards updating the city’s zoning maps, which were last updated in 1997, she said.

The city is also looking to replace several part-time Pembroke Police officers with full-time officers. This would increase the cost of benefits for the employees, Hill added.

Read the full story in the Aug. 25 issue of the Bryan County News.