FAQs • Clayton, NC • CivicEngage

What exactly does the Finance Department do?: We're the hub of the Town's financial operations and responsible for managing an accounting system that provides full, accurate, and timely disclosure of information, which is the definition of transparency. The primary goal is to provide quality management of the Town's financial resources while continually striving for excellence. The Town's cash flow, grants, investments, debt, payroll, and purchasing functions are managed by the Finance Department. Our role is to provide financial services to taxpayers, vendors, town departments, and employees.

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Finance

1. What exactly does the Finance Department do?: We're the hub of the Town's financial operations and responsible for managing an accounting system that provides full, accurate, and timely disclosure of information, which is the definition of transparency. The primary goal is to provide quality management of the Town's financial resources while continually striving for excellence. The Town's cash flow, grants, investments, debt, payroll, and purchasing functions are managed by the Finance Department. Our role is to provide financial services to taxpayers, vendors, town departments, and employees.

2. How do I pay my property and vehicle taxes?: Johnston County collects all property and vehicle taxes. You can call the Johnston County Tax Office at 919-989-5130 or go to the Johnston County Tax Administration Office website, where you can view and pay your tax bills online.

3. Why does the Town of Clayton charge a $30.00 municipal vehicle tax?: The state of North Carolina gives municipalities the right to collect a municipal vehicle tax. On July 1, 2018, the Town Council approved raising the vehicle tax from $5 to $30 annually per car. Why did the Council decide to do this? Because the infrastructure of our community defines our community. You can become known for things. Clayton has some bad streets and the rate of decline is increasing. How do we get the revenue to pay for those streets? One way is to tax the cars that drive on them. The $30 annual fee is the maximum allowed by North Carolina law, and it would generate $375,000 in its first year. And what's most important, this money is restricted and must be used for street improvement projects. Analysis from a recent study addressing Clayton's deteriorating streets estimated the Town needs to spend $1 million a year to keep our streets up. With roughly $500,000 from the state Powell funds, that leaves about half a million more for the town to cover every year. A $25 increase equates to less than 7 cents a day to help keep our busy roads safe and smooth. If you'd like, bring in your vehicle tax receipt and we'll give you a custom Town of Clayton license plate for the front of your vehicle. Just come to the Customer Service area in Town Hall, 111 East 2nd Street.

4. How can I check on the status of an invoice or payment?: The Finance Department pays invoices weekly. All questions relating to the status of an invoice should be directed to Accounts Payable by calling 919-553-5002. Invoices can be emailed or faxed to 919-553-8919.

5. How do I become a vendor?: To be considered, contact the Town of Clayton Finance Department at 919-553-5002.

6. Is the Town of Clayton subject to federal and state sales taxes?: Yes, the Town is subject to sales tax on its purchases of tangible personal property and services. The Town is allowed to make a request for an annual refund on these taxes.

7. How are my tax dollars spent?: Would you like to see a break-down of where your tax dollars are spent? What eats up the biggest slice of the pie? Find out here!