Steve Bennett

The meeting agenda included several key items. The commissioners recognized Yula May Gooding on her 100th birthday via resolution. They adopted a new Recreational Vehicle Park Ordinance after holding the required public hearing. Approval was sought for an updated drug and alcohol policy for CARTS, which incorporated changes mandated by NC DOT and Integrated Mobility Division compliance review. The board considered the renewal of disaster debris removal contracts with Series Environmental Services and Phillips Environmental, including CPI increases for both. Additionally, the board addressed the one-year renewal for disaster debris monitoring contracts with Tetratech and Thompson Consulting, with Tetratech requesting a CPI increase. A budget amendment request from the water department was presented to add an Administrative Officer I position due to significant population growth and increased operational workload since 2016.

The special meeting convened to conduct three public hearings related to Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) applications. The first hearing was a general public hearing concerning the anticipated submission of applications or amendments to the CDBG program. The second public hearing addressed the intent to apply for CDBG Coronavirus (CDBG-CV) grant funds totaling $1,800,000, proposed for purchasing equipment, such as defibrillators and coveralls, for various EMS and fire departments to support COVID-19 response efforts. The third public hearing concerned amending the current 2021 CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) grant to request additional funds for public services, including nature park improvements and non-COVID related EMS equipment. Separately, the board received the presentation of the 2025 fiscal year annual audit results, which included general comments, an unmodified clean opinion on the financial statements, and the discussion of a single compliance finding (2025-001). Key financial metrics presented included a General Fund balance available as a percentage of expenditures of 34.79% and property tax collection at 99.29%. The presenters also highlighted the required implementation of Gatsby Statement number 103 in fiscal year 2026.

The meeting began with the swearing-in of new Commissioner Mr. Tim Mason for District One. Key discussion items included a public hearing regarding the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Land Use Plan, which was subsequently opened and closed without public comment, followed by a presentation on the plan's details, framework for future growth, and CAMA certification requirements. The board then approved the consent agenda, which covered minutes from previous sessions, tax releases, and a planning request concerning Innovation Way for the secondary road system. Following this, the board approved the adoption of the CAMA land use plan and recognized Craven County for achieving a Community Rating System Class 7 rating for outstanding flood plane management. The county attorney presented an item regarding registering a standing objection to the waiver/remission of court costs and fees to protect revenue sources for the school system. Additionally, Emergency Services sought approval for the purchase of a used fire truck by Co City Volunteer Fire and Rescue, funded through fundraising and the sale of an older truck. A budget amendment was also approved to transfer proceeds from land sales at the industrial park into the capital reserve fund to support economic development projects.

The meeting commenced with a call to order, followed by the roll call, prayer, and pledge of allegiance. The agenda was approved as written. Key discussions included the approval of the consent agenda items, which comprised minutes from the previous session, tax releases and refunds, a lease agreement for holiday carriage tours at the Sudan parking lot, and a resolution for Military Person of the Quarter. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the reorganization of the board, including the election and swearing-in of the new Chair, Dennis Booker, and Vice Chair, Jason Jones. The board established meeting dates and locations for 2026, tabling the discussion on commissioner appointments to various boards and committees to allow for individual confirmation. Action was taken on emergency services, approving a budget amendment of $34,818 to cover a retirement payout for an employee with 28 years of service. The board authorized the execution of an inspection services agreement with the City of Havlock to allow the county to perform building inspections on county-owned properties and facilitate the city inspector's training, noting this arrangement is expected to result in cost savings for the city. Finally, policies related to CART (Community Transportation) were reviewed and approved following a compliance review, including updates to ADA complementary transit policy, procurement dollar thresholds, and the safety plan accountable executive.

The meeting featured presentations on major transportation projects. The first update covered the James City project, detailing progress on noise walls, drainage structures, service road construction, and traffic shifts for US 70 ramps near Grantham. The presentation highlighted the use of Lightweight Cellular Concrete (LCCF) to speed construction and reduce settlement time compared to traditional materials. The second presentation announced the upcoming safe opening of the Havelock bypass on Friday, noting that while the bypass will open, lane closures will continue until midsummer for final paving and markings. Information was also provided on the C project update and utility relocation work planned through 2026.