Robin Abbott

The meeting included procedural matters such as roll call, invocation, and the pledge of allegiance led by Cadet Daniels. Public addresses were heard, with one speaker advocating for the placement of "In God We Trust" in county courtrooms, citing its presence on US currency and its connection to guiding laws. Another speaker discussed the salary structure for the Sheriff's position, recommending the implementation of a salary range to ensure experienced incumbents are not paid the same as newly elected, potentially underqualified individuals. A third speaker focused on the importance of morality, honesty, and competence in leadership. Recognition segments honored Connie Barnes as the Employee of the Month for her service in Social Services and significant improvements in the Food and Nutrition redetermination department's timeliness. The Board also recognized the championship achievements of the 2025 Aiden Griffin Chargers girls volleyball team and the 2025 JHRO Rampants girls volleyball team. Additionally, a resolution honoring Bishop Rosie S. O'Neal on her retirement was presented.

The Director's Report highlighted the early voting turnout as of the preceding Monday, noting it was the highest turnout compared to the same point in time for all previous Municipal Elections, totaling 3,226. New business involved the consideration and approval of 15 returned absentee ballots, which were processed using the DS200 voting machine.

The meeting focused on election administration matters. Key discussions included the early voting turnout, which marked the highest turnout for all previous Municipal Elections. New business involved the unanimous approval of the list of Election Day precinct officials and the consideration and approval of 27 returned absentee ballots, which were processed using the DS200 voting machine. The Board also scheduled subsequent meetings to review and count provisional ballots and to review photo ID exception forms related to provisional ballots.

The agenda for the meeting included several presentations and recognitions, such as Employee of the Month for January and February, a resolution for the Register of Deeds Certification, and a proclamation recognizing National Future Business Leaders of America Week. A public hearing was scheduled for the Christopher E. Sutton Rezoning Request. Items for report covered USDA Farm Service Agency updates, monthly financial reports for various funds as of December 2025 and January 2026, tax collection reports, and the Manager's Report detailing upcoming meeting dates and operational updates like EMS system enhancements and recognition of Black History Month. Consent items involved numerous budget amendments concerning grants (ESG, NC East Alliance Microgrant), vehicle purchases, Sheriff service contracts, and various Public Health grants/applications. Items for decision included a Memorandum of Understanding with Green Town Properties, the Pitt County Strategic Plan, the Pitt Area Transit Relocation Project, and multiple reappointments to advisory and oversight boards, including the Grimesland Planning Board and the ECU Health Medical Center Board of Trustees.

The new business portion of the meeting focused on considering provisional photo ID exceptions. The staff presented 10 provisional ballots requiring review, and following examination, the board unanimously approved all 10 for counting. The board also noted future discussions regarding Early Voting for the 2026 Primary scheduled for November 7 and a subsequent plan consideration following the Canvass on November 14.