Financial Management System Transition

**NOTICE**

Due to the software transition, from February 26th through March 31st, all utility payments will need to be paid via cash, check or money order. Payments may be made in-person at Town Hall or dropped off in our secure drop box located beside the Carthage Police Department. We will be unable to take credit or debit card payments during this time.

We appreciate your patience as we work to bring you a better utility billing system.

Overview
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The Town of Carthage is modernizing how we manage our financial operations, utility billing, and customer payments. We are transitioning to a new Financial Management System (FMS) powered by Black Mountain Software (BMS). This upgrade will allow us to streamline services, improve accuracy, save taxpayer dollars, and provide better tools for our customers. We are also participating in the AIM Program (Accounting Instruction & Mentorship) through the North Carolina League of Municipalities (NCLM) — a statewide initiative designed to help small towns strengthen financial processes, ensure accountability, and receive hands‑on support from municipal finance experts.

What is a Financial Management System?

A Financial Management System (FMS) is the software local governments use to manage all core financial activities, including:
  • Utility billing and payment processing
  • Budgeting and accounting
  • Payroll
  • Monthly and annual financial reporting
  • Audit preparation
  • Tracking revenue and expenses
In other words, it’s the central hub that keeps government financial information organized, accurate, and transparent.

 

Why is the Town switching to Black Mountain Software (BMS)?

The Town is transitioning to BMS to streamline billing and payment processes, eliminate the use of two separate systems, reduce errors, and provide real‑time posting of payments. The new system will also give customers access to a full self‑service portal for payments and account information.

 

How will this change benefit me as a utility customer?

Customers will benefit from:

  • More accurate billing
  • Instant payment posting
  • Fewer errors and delays
  • Multiple convenient payment options (online, text, phone, in‑person, autopay)
  • A user‑friendly customer portal to view bills, usage, and payment history

 

What is happening with Invoice Cloud?

Invoice Cloud, the Town’s current utility invoicing system, will be discontinued at 11:59 PM on February 25, 2026, after the final autopay drafts run.

 

How do I pay my utility bill during the transition period?

From February 26 through March 31, 2026, all payments must be made by cash, check, or money order while the Town transitions to the new BMS Pay system. Payments can be made in person at Town Hall or dropped off in our secure lock box located next to the Carthage Police Department's front door. Staff will be unable to accept credit/debit cards or telephone payments during the transition period. 

 

When will the new online payment system (BMS Pay) be available?

Similar to Invoice Cloud, the new software will offer online billing and payments through BMS Pay once the transition is complete. The Town’s goal is for BMS Pay to begin in early April 2026, with a target launch of April 1, 2026. This date may shift slightly if technical adjustments are needed. Instructions will be mailed to customers and posted on the Town website and Facebook in mid to late March, ahead of the go‑live date.

 

 

 

What is the NCLM MAS Program?

The Municipal Accounting Services (MAS) Program is an initiative of the North Carolina League of Municipalities (NCLM) created to strengthen financial accountability and reliability in small towns. MAS provides a comprehensive suite of financial support services, including accounting assistance, software conversion, and professional training for municipal finance staff. It was launched in 2022 as part of the League’s ARP service offerings.

 

Why is Carthage participating in the MAS Program?

Carthage is working with MAS to enhance its long‑term financial practices, improve internal accounting processes, and support staff through expert training and technical assistance. MAS offers practical, hands‑on support from experienced municipal finance specialists, helping small towns strengthen financial operations and maintain compliance.

 

Who do I contact if I have questions?

Please contact Town Hall at (910) 947‑2331 with any questions or concerns during the transition. Staff are here to help ensure this process is as smooth as possible.

 

Related Information

BMS Letter to Customers(PDF, 368KB) 

Questions?

We're here to help!

Town Hall

(910) 947-2331

4396 Hwy 15 501

Carthage, NC 28327

Transition Schedule

February 25, 2026

Last auto-draft payments through Invoice Cloud. Invoice Cloud discontinued after 11:59 p.m. 

 

February 26 - March 31, 2026

All payments must be made with cash, check or money order. New credit/debit card system (BMS Pay) not available yet. There will be no auto drafting available.

 

Mid-to-Late March, 2026

Instructions provided to customers on how to sign up and access BMS Pay. 

 

Early April (Goal of April 1st)

New BMS Pay system will officially go live. Date is subject to change.

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