Beaufort County

The Board of Commissioners conducted a meeting covering several key items, including a service award presentation, an annual report from Trillium Health Resources, and an update on the Durham Creek boat landing. Public hearings were held regarding the inclusion of Belhaven within the Pantego Township Rescue Service District and the proposed 2026-2027 fiscal budget. A new County Manager was sworn in. Consent agenda items included budget amendments for health and special revenue funds, tax department refunds, property management staffing approvals, and the establishment of a Water Capital Reserve Fund. Decision items addressed ordinance updates, home elevation funding, vehicle replacements, and property acquisitions. Additionally, commissioners held discussions on tax rate reductions, limited voting policies, and illegal drug penalties.

The committee held a discussion regarding a potential moratorium on large-scale data center development in the county to address energy, water, and environmental concerns. Additionally, the committee reviewed seven census tracts for the Opportunity Zone 2.0 program and reached an agreement to submit nominations for the Chocowinity Industrial Corridor and the Richland Township area. The meeting also included general updates regarding economic development, healthcare services, and agricultural conditions affecting the local region.

The board conducted an annual review and revision of its operating procedures and discussed updates to the Board of Health handbook. Several fiscal year budget amendments were approved regarding opioid project support, diabetes prevention, and medical training programs. The financial report for the current fiscal year was reviewed, and the Health Director provided updates on agency grants, disease trends including measles and influenza, and staffing changes. Additionally, a presentation for an upcoming county commissioner retreat was reviewed, and the board adjusted its meeting calendar for March.

The board meeting agenda included a session to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, and appointment of a public officer or employee under a closed personnel session.

The Beaufort County Comprehensive Bicycle Plan provides a strategic framework to enhance bicycling conditions and promote a bicycle-friendly community. It outlines detailed recommendations for bicycle facilities, programs, and policies, guided by themes such as accessibility, connectivity, economic benefits, education, enforcement, environmental benefits, healthy and active lifestyles, inclusivity, equitability, bicycling culture, and safety. The plan aims to establish an interconnected, safe, and convenient bicycle network that links all municipalities and major destinations, thereby improving mobility, safety, health, the economy, the environment, and the overall quality of life for both residents and visitors.