Cameron McGill

The board meeting included the recognition of long-term service for EMS personnel, an introduction of a new HR assistant, and a review of nonprofit grant applications. Key financial decisions involved the allocation of funds to various nonprofit organizations through a split of budgeted resources and the addition of ARPA funds. Additionally, the commissioners discussed the potential relocation of a precinct polling place and a proposal to place a referendum on the November ballot regarding the reduction of the board's total number of commissioners from nine to five.

The meeting provided an overview of behavioral health services offered by Trillium Health Resources, focusing on their role as a managed care organization for 46 counties. Key topics included the mission to transform lives and build community well-being, the operational model for tailored and Medicaid direct plans, and the increasing number of uninsured individuals needing services. Discussions covered the impact of Medicaid transformation on foster care services, the expansion of re-entry care management for justice-involved individuals, and the use of technology-based tools to support clinicians and families. Additionally, the Board reviewed regional health data, budget allocations for behavioral health services, and various community training and support initiatives, such as mental health first aid and family camp programs.

The commissioners conducted a meeting that included the approval of several consent items, including an attorney-client and economic development agenda addition. Key discussion topics included special recognitions for various county employees for their years of service across departments such as the Sheriff's Office, Department of Social Services, EMS, and the Library. The board adopted a resolution proclaiming April 2026 as Child Abuse Prevention Month and discussed logistics for a upcoming butterfly release event. Furthermore, the council heard a public address regarding the future use of the East Arcadia school building and voted to reschedule a future board meeting to enable attendance at a town board meeting. Finally, the commissioners addressed concerns regarding the availability of high-speed internet and cellular connectivity in certain areas of the county.

The board meeting included a proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in honor of the 911 staff of the Bladen County Sheriff's Office. Additionally, the board held a public comment session during which citizens raised concerns regarding property valuations and the appeal process following a recent county-wide revaluation. Commissioners addressed questions about the revaluation methodology, the use of desktop assessments, and the ongoing appeal review process.

The board meeting addressed a public hearing regarding a proposed memorial designation application. A proclamation was adopted to designate the month as Welfare Fraud Awareness Month in the county. Additionally, a significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comments concerning concerns over recent property tax re-evaluations, with residents expressing dissatisfaction regarding perceived inaccuracies in property valuation and the resulting potential tax burdens.