Craven County public meetings in 2025

Board of Commissioners

The Commissioners will hear an informational presentation on the Highway 70/I‑42 project. They will vote on a consent agenda that includes approving prior minutes, tax releases, a $5,011 emergency fund for a sheriff radio duplexer, a $5,000 donation for infield clay at Creekside Park, a $6,000 grant for fitness equipment at West Craven Park, a resolution to turn about 420 ft of Trellis Lane over to NCDOT, and a $1 sale of retired firefighters’ service weapons. Additional items include a budget amendment for retiree payouts, an America 250 NC grant amendment, and appointments to boards and committees.

• $5,011 emergency funds to replace the sheriff’s primary VHF radio duplexer
• $5,000 donation for infield clay at Creekside Park youth baseball/softball fields
• $6,000 grant for two outdoor fitness equipment pieces at West Craven Park
• Resolution to add approximately 420 feet of Trellis Lane to the State‑maintained secondary road system
• Sale of retired sergeants’ service sidearms for $1 each under NCGS 20‑187.2

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, which included emergency funds for the sheriff’s radio, a recreation donation, a grant for fitness equipment, and a request to add a portion of Trellis Lane to the state secondary road system. They also approved a $29,797 budget amendment for a retiree payout and a $30,000 grant‑marketing amendment for the America 250 celebration. The resolution to request state maintenance of Trellis Lane was adopted, and David Warren was reappointed to the Fireman’s Relief Fund Board by acclamation.

• Approved agenda (6-0 roll call)
• Approved consent agenda items—including emergency funds, recreation donation, fitness grant, and Trellis Lane request (6-0 roll call)
• Approved $29,797 budget amendment for retiree payout (6-0 roll call)
• Approved $30,000 America 250 grant marketing amendment (6-0 roll call)
• Adopted resolution requesting state maintenance of a portion of Trellis Lane (no vote recorded)
• Reappointed David Warren to Fireman’s Relief Fund Board by acclamation

Board of Commissioners

The Craven County Board of Commissioners will vote on several budget amendments, including a $420,000 addition for the Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams (START) program and a $90,000 amendment for information‑technology locating services. Commissioners will also consider a lease allowing Morgan‑Reid, Inc. to use the former Sudan Shriners parking lot for holiday carriage tours, adopt a resolution honoring Corporal Mya J. Seymour, and set a public hearing for a proposed Recreational Vehicle Park Ordinance. The meeting includes routine consent‑agenda items such as minutes, tax releases, and other departmental reports.

• Approve $420,000 budget amendment for the START program (Social Services).
• Approve $90,000 budget amendment for IT locating services (Information Technology).
• Approve lease for Morgan‑Reid, Inc. to use the Sudan parking lot for holiday carriage tours.
• Adopt RV Park Ordinance draft and schedule a public hearing for Jan 5, 2026.
• Approve tax releases and refunds (credits = $10,959.09) and minutes of prior sessions.

The Craven County Board of Commissioners approved the agenda and consent agenda unanimously. Commissioners elected Denny Bucher as chair and Jason Jones as vice‑chair, and adopted the 2026 meeting schedule. They also approved a $34,818 budget amendment for an emergency services retiree payout, a memorandum of understanding with the City of Havelock for building inspections, and amended CARTS department policies.

• Approved agenda (7‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (7‑0)
• Elected Denny Bucher as chair (unanimous)
• Elected Jason Jones as vice‑chair (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule (7‑0)
• Approved $34,818 budget amendment for retiree payout (7‑0)
• Approved MOU with City of Havelock for building inspection services (7‑0)
• Approved amended CARTS ADA, procurement, and safety‑plan policies (7‑0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board approved the consent agenda items, including a $1,895 health funding amendment and a $5,000 legal‑fee budget for Sandy Ridge Mobile Home Park. Commissioners adopted a FY26 Pay and Classification Plan with an implementation cost of $947,176. The meeting also discussed the Capital Improvement Plan and the CAMA Land Use Plan, but no decisions were made on those items.

• Consent agenda: approve $1,895 health funding budget amendment
• Consent agenda: approve $5,000 legal fees for Sandy Ridge Mobile Home Park
• Approve FY26 Pay and Classification Plan implementation cost of $947,176
• Discussion of Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) FY2027‑FY2036
• Presentation of CAMA Land Use Plan for upcoming public hearing

The Board approved the agenda and consent agenda unanimously (7‑0). It adopted a $90,000 IT budget amendment for locating services (7‑0) and set a public hearing for the RV Park Ordinance on Jan. 5, 2026 (unanimous). It also approved a $420,000 amendment for the Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams (START) program and an $87,556 amendment for the Home and Community Care Block Grant (7‑0 each).

• Approved agenda as amended (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases and budget amendments (7-0)
• Approved $90,000 IT budget amendment for USIC locating services (7-0)
• Set public hearing for RV Park Ordinance on Jan. 5, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved $420,000 START program budget amendment (7-0)
• Approved $87,556 Home and Community Care Block Grant revised budget (7-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider a resolution to adopt the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Land Use Plan. This 20-year framework guides sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and growth. The board will also address departmental matters including emergency services and finance.

• Public hearing and potential adoption of the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Land Use Plan
• Request to add Innovation Way (0.26 miles) to the State Maintained Secondary Road System
• Purchase of a used fire truck for the Cove City Fire Department
• Budget amendment for a transfer to Capital Reserve
• Oath of office for Tim Mason

The commissioners approved a budget amendment moving $874,298 to the Capital Reserve Fund with a 7‑0 vote. They also adopted the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Land Use Plan unanimously and authorized a standing objection to waive court costs and fines unanimously. The board approved the purchase of a used fire truck for up to $140,000 and approved a request to add Innovation Way to the state secondary road system, both with unanimous consent.

• Adopt CAMA Land Use Plan resolution (unanimous)
• Authorize standing objection to waiver/remission of court costs and fines (unanimous)
• Approve purchase of used fire truck, price not to exceed $140,000 (approved)
• Transfer $874,298 from General Fund to Capital Reserve Fund (7‑0)
• Approve addition of Innovation Way (.26 mi) to state secondary road system (7‑0)
• Approve agenda, minutes, tax releases and other consent items (7‑0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss funding for the Gethsemane Church Road water main relocation and a lease for the Cove City Library parking and driveway. The meeting includes several budget amendments for Social Services, the Sheriff's Office, and the Health Department.

• Funding for Gethsemane Church Road water main relocation project
• Cove City Library parking/driveway lease and budget amendment
• Budget amendment of $2,720 for Sunshine Center Program donation funds
• Budget amendment of $10,480 to roll forward unspent donations for Senior Services and Sunshine Center
• Approval of non-emergency transport franchise for Careline Medical Transport

The Craven County Board approved funding for the Gethsemanе Church Road water main relocation project. It also unanimously approved a franchise for Careline Medical Transport and authorized applications for FY2025‑26 SMAP ($130,920) and ROAP ($253,246) grants. A resolution honoring Lovay Wallace‑Singleton and a proclamation designating November 6‑11, 2025 as Veterans Service Week were adopted.

• Approved funding for Gethsemanе Church Road water main relocation project (budget amendment)
• Approved franchise for Careline Medical Transport (unanimous)
• Authorized application for FY2025‑26 State Maintenance Assistance Program (SMAP) $130,920 (unanimous)
• Authorized application for FY2025‑26 Rural Operating Assistance Program (ROAP) $253,246 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution honoring Lovay Wallace‑Singleton
• Adopted proclamation recognizing November 6‑11, 2025 as Veterans Service Week
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, tax releases, and donations (6‑0 roll call)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Commissioners voted 6‑0 to adopt the FY26 Pay and Classification Plan with an implementation cost of $947,176. They also unanimously authorized publishing a public hearing notice for the CAMA Land Use Plan on November 3, 2025. A consensus was reached to move forward with Microtransit Option 3 and to explore Option 4. The Board unanimously approved proceeding with the Capital Improvement Plan discussion.

• Approved FY26 Pay and Classification Plan implementation cost $947,176 (6‑0 roll call)
• Authorized publication of public hearing for CAMA Land Use Plan on Nov 3, 2025 (unanimous)
• Consensus to advance Microtransit Option 3 and study Option 4
• Approved proceeding with Capital Improvement Plan discussion (unanimous)
• Directed staff to draft RV ordinance recommendations for future review

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners voted to approve the meeting agenda with a unanimous vote. Later, the Board unanimously voted to adjourn the special meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Craven County Board will review a Federal Aviation Administration grant of $867,508 to fund runway safety area upgrades and taxiway rehabilitation at the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport. It will also hear a second public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant application, consider petitions, and vote on consent agenda items including a $15,000 Convention Center budget amendment, a $4,297.55 tax release for Wesley Covenant Church daycare, and a request to add King Creek Drive and related roads to the state secondary road system. The meeting includes departmental reports and a closed‑session segment.

• FAA Airport Improvement Program grant of $867,508 for runway safety area and taxiway projects
• $15,000 budget amendment for additional contractual employee funding at the Convention Center
• Tax release of $4,297.55 for Wesley Covenant Church (child daycare portion) for Tax Year 2025
• Request to add King Creek Drive and associated courts to the North Carolina state secondary road system
• Second public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG‑NR) application

The Board approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, which included tax credits of $12,747.90, tax releases of $5,318.42, and a $15,000 budget amendment for additional convention‑center employee funding. Commissioners voted unanimously to support a letter of support for a plaque on the Courthouse Governors’ Boulder and to authorize the County to submit a Community Development Block Grant‑Neighborhood Revitalization application. The Board also approved a cardboard‑recycling dumpster for the December Wreaths Across America ceremony.

• Approved agenda (5-0 roll call)
• Approved consent agenda – tax credits $12,747.90, tax releases $5,318.42, $15,000 convention‑center employee funding (5-0 roll call)
• Approved letter of support for Courthouse Governors’ Boulder plaque (unanimous)
• Approved CDBG‑NR application and authorized Chairman to sign documents (unanimous)
• Authorized cardboard recycling dumpster for Wreaths Across America event (consensus)
• Entered and closed public hearing on CDBG‑NR (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a presentation from Hope Mission of Coastal Carolina and consider several administrative approvals. Key decisions include FAA grant funding for the airport and budget amendments for a single-family rehabilitation loan program.

• FAA grant funding approval for the airport
• Budget amendment and project ordinance for the Essential Single Family Rehabilitation Loan Pool
• Request to add several roads in King Creek Subdivision to the State Maintained Secondary Road System
• Updated fee requests for the Craven County Health Department
• Lease for the 2025 Downtown New Bern Airshow at Union Point Park

The Board unanimously approved the County’s acceptance of a $867,508 Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program grant to fund design, permitting, and environmental work for runway safety area and taxiway rehabilitation projects. The Board also adopted a resolution requesting the North Carolina Department of Transportation to review and assume maintenance of several King Creek Subdivision roads for possible addition to the state‑maintained secondary road system. The agenda and consent agenda items, including the September 2 minutes, tax releases, and leases for the Downtown New Bern Airshow and Mumfest, were approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda (6‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (6‑0)
• Adopted resolution to request state takeover of King Creek Subdivision roads
• Approved acceptance of $867,508 FAA Airport Improvement Program grant (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings regarding NCDOT grant applications and the Project Home 2.0 OneNC grant. The board will also consider several budget amendments for IT, emergency services, and the Sheriff's office.

• Public hearing for FY2026-2027 NCDOT grant applications
• Public hearing for Project Home 2.0 OneNC grant
• Proposed $950,000 CDBG-NR funding application for neighborhood revitalization
• Budget amendment for Cloud migration of AS/400
• Budget amendment for NC Association of Chiefs of Police grant acceptance

The commissioners approved the agenda and consent agenda unanimously. Public hearings on CARTS grant applications and the Project Home 2.0 economic development proposal were held and closed without public comment. The board approved CARTS’s applications for FY2026‑2027 transportation grants and approved a $1,000,000 budget amendment and resolution to accept the OneNC grant and county match for Project Home 2.0. A resolution honoring Sgt. Kyle A. Lumabao as Military Service Person of the Quarter was also adopted.

• Approved agenda (6‑0 roll call)
• Entered and closed public hearing on CARTS grant applications (unanimous)
• Entered and closed public hearing on Project Home 2.0 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, tax releases, CDBG‑NR hearing request, and military service resolution (6‑0 roll call)
• Adopted resolution recognizing Sgt. Kyle A. Lumabao as Military Service Person of the Quarter
• Approved CARTS applications for FY2026‑2027 CTP Grant ($468,329) and Combined Capital Grant ($487,710) (6‑0 roll call)
• Approved $1,000,000 budget amendment and resolution to accept OneNC grant and $250,000 county match for Project Home 2.0 (6‑0 roll call)

Board of Commissioners

The Craven County Board of Commissioners will receive Trillium Health Resources’ annual report and act on multiple budget amendments, including $6,000 for a new state health-lab system and $8,585 for water-department vehicle and equipment price increases. The board will also consider public hearings for CARTS transit grants and the Economic Development Project Home 2.0.

• Approve $6,000 budget amendment for Craven County Health Department to adopt the Electronic Test Ordering and Results system
• Approve $8,585 budget amendment for Water Department vehicles, Trimble GPS unit, and Ground Penetrating Radar price increases
• Approve $14,209 Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer rollover funds
• Approve $3,908 Sheriff’s Office Detention rollover funds for flashlights
• Schedule public hearing on September 2, 2025 for CARTS FY2026–2027 5311 Community Transportation grants

The Craven County Board approved its agenda and a consent agenda that included tax refunds, water vehicle funding, and sheriff rollovers. It adopted a $140,755 budget amendment for the StreamFlow Rehabilitation Assistance Program (StRAP) and awarded a not‑to‑exceed $119,641.75 contract to J and J Environmental, LLC for StRAP Round 2. The board also approved a $25,955 extension of ARPA funds for the Home and Community Care Block Grant and confirmed additional funding for water and sheriff operations.

• Approved agenda (5-0 roll call)
• Approved consent agenda, including $10,283.60 tax refunds, water vehicle/GPS/GPR funding, and sheriff rollovers (5-0 roll call)
• Approved $140,755 StRAP Round 2 budget amendment (5-0 roll call)
• Approved contract to J and J Environmental, LLC for StRAP Round 2, not‑to‑exceed $119,641.75 (5-0 roll call)
• Approved $25,955 Home and Community Care Block Grant ARPA funds extension (5-0 roll call)
• Approved $14,209 Sheriff’s Office SRO rollover budget amendment (5-0 roll call)
• Approved $3,908 Sheriff’s Office Detention rollover budget amendment (5-0 roll call)
• Approved $8,585 Water Department additional funding for vehicles, GPS and GPR (5-0 roll call)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding a $100,000 grant for Project Enterprise, which requires a $50,000 county match. The body will also consider several budget amendments for facility projects and departmental rollovers.

• Public hearing for Project Enterprise: $100,000 grant with a $50,000 county match
• Budget amendment of $4,058 for Emergency Services Motorola Maintenance Contract
• Budget amendment of $4,084 for Real Estate Appraiser NCDOR Certification III course
• Budget amendments for Courthouse & EOC Recovery Project Phase 4 and Senior Center Restoration
• Budget amendments for Havelock Health Clinic Expansion and Government Center East

The Craven County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included budget amendments for emergency services and tax rollover funds. They also adopted a proclamation declaring August as Child Support Awareness Month and a resolution honoring retiring District Attorney Scott Thomas, each by a 7-0 vote. The public hearing on Project Enterprise was closed without public comment, and the agenda was approved unanimously.

• Approved Consent Agenda items (minutes, tax releases, emergency services rollover budget amendment, tax rollover budget amendment) 7-0
• Adopted proclamation declaring August Child Support Awareness Month 7-0
• Adopted resolution honoring District Attorney Scott Thomas 7-0
• Closed public hearing on Project Enterprise unanimously
• Approved agenda as presented unanimously

Board of Commissioners

The Board is deciding whether to approve a Memorandum of Agreement with the City of New Bern to use Section 5307 FTA funding for the Metropolitan Planning Organization. This change follows a loss of federal grants due to population decline. The proposal would increase the local match requirement for member agencies from 10% to 20%.

• Memorandum of Agreement between Craven County and City of New Bern for MPO funding
• FAA grant funding approval for the airport
• Land lease agreement in Bridgeton for Solid Waste
• Budget amendments for State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) 2022 and 2023
• Budget amendment for RingCentral implementation

The Board approved the Memorandum of Agreement with the City of New Bern to use Section 5307 funds for MPO planning, with the motion carried unanimously. The consent agenda, including the July 7 minutes, tax releases and refunds, a cybersecurity grant rollover, a uniform and dress policy amendment, and the 2026 holiday schedule, was approved by a 7‑0 roll‑call vote.

• Approve MPO Memorandum of Agreement (unanimous)
• Approve consent agenda (7-0 roll call)
• Approve July 7, 2025 minutes (included in consent agenda)
• Approve tax releases and refunds ($3,574.56 credits, $89.91 refunds) (included in consent agenda)
• Approve State and Local Cybersecurity Grant 2022 rollover ($3,030) (included in consent agenda)
• Approve Uniforms and Dress Policy amendment (included in consent agenda)
• Approve Craven County 2026 holiday schedule (included in consent agenda)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on a Community Development Block Grant application and consider a budget amendment for school renovations. The body will also review requests for voting equipment and special appropriations for various community organizations.

• Budget amendment of $274,040 for heat pump and gym unit replacements at HJ MacDonald Middle and Vanceboro Farm Life Elementary
• Public hearing for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application
• Proposed public hearing on August 4, 2025, for Project Enterprise involving a $50,000 county match for a $100,000 grant
• Budget amendment of $1,900 for Permitium, LLC contract to provide online vital records access
• Resolution to approve the purchase of voting equipment

The Craven County Board of Commissioners approved a $274,040 budget amendment for school repair and renovation projects and adopted a resolution to purchase voting equipment costing $201,195. Both measures passed unanimously with a 6‑0 vote. Additional approvals included a $25,000 special appropriation for ACT, a $1,900 contract amendment for the Register of Deeds, and a $200 allocation of donation checks for the Sheriff’s Office.

• Approved $274,040 school repair and renovation budget amendment (6-0)
• Approved purchase of 35 DS300 voting tabulators costing $201,195 (6-0)
• Approved $25,000 special appropriation for Allies for Cherry Points Tomorrow (ACT) (6-0)
• Approved $1,900 contract amendment for Register of Deeds Permitium contract (6-0)
• Approved $200 use of donation checks for Sheriff’s Office supplies (6-0)
• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and tax releases (6-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider adopting the FY 2025-2026 Budget Ordinance and an updated Fee Schedule. The meeting includes a presentation on child protection and fatality prevention, as well as several budget amendments and personnel policy updates.

• Adoption of FY 2025-2026 Budget Ordinance with a General Fund total of $160,927,630
• Approval of Sudan Property Redevelopment Project Ordinance Amendment and related budget amendment
• Request to set a public hearing for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funding Project Application
• Authorization for Opioid Settlement Fund spending
• Request to approve legal services for tax foreclosure

The Commissioners approved the meeting agenda (6‑0) and adopted the FY 2025‑2026 Budget Ordinance and updated fee schedule (6‑0), establishing a balanced general‑fund budget of $160,927,630 with the tax rate unchanged at .4448. Presentations on child‑protection teams and various departmental budget amendments were made, but no other motions were recorded as decided.

• Approve agenda – carried 6‑0 roll call vote
• Adopt FY 2025‑2026 Budget Ordinance and fee schedule – carried 6‑0 roll call vote

Board of Commissioners

The Craven County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the FY 2026 budget. The board also agreed to increase rescue‑squad per‑mile fees, to move the Opioid Epidemic Response department to the Health Department, and to amend personnel policies for retiree health insurance and on‑call pay. A consensus was reached to hold ECCOG membership dues in the budget and to keep current water bulk rates unchanged. Items such as the $30,000 Partners In Education match and Coastal Women’s Shelter half‑funding were discussed without a final vote.

• Adopt FY 2026 budget (unanimously carried)
• Approve rescue‑squad per‑mile fee increase (consensus)
• Move Opioid Epidemic Response department to Health Department (consensus)
• Amend retiree health insurance rate policy to reflect 5% increase (consensus)
• Amend on‑call pay policy for water department employees (consensus)
• Hold ECCOG membership dues in budget pending further information (consensus)
• Maintain Cove City water bulk rates unchanged (consensus)
• Discuss $30,000 Partners In Education match and Coastal Women’s Shelter half‑funding (no decision)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings regarding the proposed FY 2025-2026 budget, a regional hazard mitigation plan, and the conveyance of land for Project Tint. The body will also consider several budget amendments and a property sale for economic development.

• Public hearing for FY 2025-2026 Proposed Budget ($159,246,363 recommended)
• Public hearing and request for sale of property in the Craven County Industrial Park for Project Tint
• Public hearing for the Pamlico Sound Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
• Budget amendments for Tax, CARTS (SMAP funding), Solid Waste, and Rescue Squads
• Resolution recognizing Lance Corporal Johnathan V. Fitzgerald as Military Service Person of the Quarter

The Craven County Board of Commissioners adopted the Pamlico Sound Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan by unanimous vote. The board also approved the consent agenda—including the May 19 minutes, tax releases and refunds, a tax budget amendment, and a resolution honoring Lance Corporal Johnathan V. Fitzgerald—with a 7‑0 roll‑call vote. The tax releases provided credits of $6,974.44 and refunds of $17.37.

• Adopted Pamlico Sound Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan (unanimously carried)
• Approved consent agenda (minutes, tax releases, tax budget amendment, Military Service Person of the Quarter resolution) – 7‑0 vote
• Recognized Lance Corporal Johnathan V. Fitzgerald as Military Service Person of the Quarter (adopted)
• Approved tax releases and refunds: credits $6,974.44; refunds $17.37 (part of consent agenda)
• Approved tax budget amendment totaling $4,603.00 in expenditures (part of consent agenda)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners voted unanimously to raise the residential water base rate by $2 (from $15 to $17) and increase usage charges by $0.50 per 1,000 gallons, with parallel hikes for non‑residential customers. They also approved a $900,000 allocation from the Capital Reserve to purchase land for Harlowe Park and the Hwy 17 Convenience Center. Additional approvals included $5,000 for a Sampson Park restoration, $100,000 for power‑line relocation and fiber installation, and consensus to begin the Polymorphic pilot tracking system.

• Approved $2 residential water rate increase and $0.50/1,000‑gal usage rise; unanimously carried
• Approved $2 non‑residential water base rate increase and $0.50/1,000‑gal usage rise; unanimously carried
• Allocated $900,000 from Capital Reserve for land purchase for Harlowe Park and Hwy 17 Convenience Center; 7‑0 roll‑call vote
• Allocated $5,000 for Sampson Park restoration project; unanimously carried
• Approved $100,000 ( $60,000 + $40,000 ) from Capital Reserve for power‑line relocation and fiber installation; 7‑0 roll‑call vote
• Consensus reached to start the Polymorphic pilot phase for county data tracking

Board of Commissioners

The Board matched a $30,000 Harold H. Bate Foundation grant, giving $10,000 to each of the three county high schools. It increased the Clean Sweep advertising line by $5,000 to $25,000 and approved a new nonprofit discount of 20% for the Colonial Capital Ballroom. The Board discontinued the contract with Integrated Care of Greater Hickory, moving to month‑to‑month payments, and approved funding for the Too Good for Drugs curriculum with a first‑year allocation of $40,000.

• Approved $30,000 grant match for high schools (10k each)
• Increased Clean Sweep line by $5,000 to $25,000 total
• Discontinued ICGH contract, set month‑to‑month payments starting July 1
• Approved funding for Too Good for Drugs curriculum ($40,000 first year)
• Approved five Social Services positions (Income Maintenance Caseworker II, Social Worker Supervisor III, Social Worker II, Social Worker I)
• Increased nonprofit discount for Colonial Capital Ballroom to 20% ($2,600/day)
• Consensus to receive pharmacy services proposal in October
• No fee adjustments requested for inspections; no county dollars appropriated for CARTS

Board of Commissioners

At this regular session, the Board will consider consent agenda items including a $15,000 budget amendment for park utilities and the sale of a retired deputy's service sidearm for $1. The main event is the presentation of the proposed FY 2025-2026 county budget by Manager Jack Veit. Following reports, the Board will recess into a budget work session to discuss the budget further.

• Approval of $15,000 budget amendment for utilities at West Craven and Creekside Parks
• Sale of retired deputy Joseph Mayberry's service sidearm for $1 under NCGS 20-187.2
• FY 2025-2026 proposed budget presentation by County Manager Jack Veit
• Recess into budget work session
• Consent agenda includes tax releases and refunds and minutes approval

The Board approved the meeting agenda by a 7-0 roll‑call vote. It then approved the consent agenda, also 7-0, which included the minutes from May 5 and May 9, tax releases and refunds, a Recreation & Parks utilities budget amendment of $15,000, and the Sheriff retiree firearm item. No other substantive actions were taken during this session.

• Approved agenda (7-0 roll‑call vote)
• Approved consent agenda (7-0 roll‑call vote)
• Approved Recreation & Parks utilities amendment $15,000 (part of consent agenda)
• Approved tax releases and refunds (credits $3,492.52; refunds $1,178.53) (part of consent agenda)
• Approved minutes of May 5, 2025 Regular Session (part of consent agenda)
• Approved minutes of May 9, 2025 Reconvened Session (part of consent agenda)
• Approved Sheriff retiree firearm item (part of consent agenda)

Board of Commissioners

The Craven County Board adopted a $159,246,363 budget, a 2.5% rise that includes a 3% COLA and a 5% health‑insurance increase. A $5 water‑fee increase was approved by majority consensus. Several capital projects and new full‑time positions were authorized, and travel and membership fees were raised.

• Adopted FY 25‑26 recommended budget of $159,246,363 (2.5% increase)
• Approved $5 water‑fee increase (base fee from $15 to $20) by majority consensus
• Authorized $2.875M for critical infrastructure projects, including $500K AG Extension renovation and $350K Creekside Park bathroom upgrade
• Added nine new full‑time county positions across elections, sheriff, social services, and water fields
• Increased travel/training line item to $17,000 for staff conference attendance
• Raised East Carolina Council of Government membership fee per capita from $0.20 to $0.40, increasing total to $41,873
• Adjusted fire‑department tax rates: maintained most rates, increased Township 3 to 0.07500 and West of New Bern to 0.04000
• Reduced Outside Legal budget by $165,000 after moving contracts to Contractual Services

Board of Commissioners

The Craven County Board of Commissioners reconvened on May 9, 2025 to receive a budget presentation from the County Schools, but no presentation was made. After brief discussion, Commissioner Mitchell moved to adjourn, the motion was seconded by Vice‑Chairman Jones and carried unanimously. No substantive decisions or approvals were recorded.

• Adjourned meeting – motion carried unanimously

Board of Commissioners

The Board will consider a joint resolution opposing new tolls and increases on existing tolls on North Carolina ferry routes, including the Cherry Branch-Minnesott Beach route serving Craven County. Consent agenda items include setting public hearings for a land conveyance in the Craven County Industrial Park (Project Tint, valued at $155,000) and the Pamlico Sound Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update. The meeting also includes budget presentations from Craven Community College and the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council.

• Joint resolution opposing new tolls and increases on NC ferry routes, citing impact on Cherry Branch-Minnesott Beach route
• Public hearing set for June 2, 2025 on conveying Lot 9-3 in Craven County Industrial Park ($155,000) for economic development
• Public hearing set for June 2, 2025 on Pamlico Sound Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
• Budget presentation from Craven Community College President Dr. Raymond Staats
• Budget presentation from Juvenile Crime Prevention Council Chair Jennifer Dacey

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda by a 4‑0 vote. They then adopted a joint resolution with six other counties opposing new tolls and toll increases on North Carolina ferry routes, passing it 5‑0. The consent agenda, including tax releases, refunds, and public hearing requests, was approved 5‑0. A proclamation recognizing May 4‑10, 2025 as Clerks to the Boards of County Commissioners Week was also adopted.

• Approved meeting agenda (4-0 roll call)
• Adopted joint resolution opposing new ferry tolls and increases (5-0 roll call)
• Approved consent agenda covering tax releases, refunds, and hearing requests (5-0 roll call)
• Adopted proclamation recognizing Clerks to the Boards of County Commissioners Week

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several facility projects, including the Sudan Property Redevelopment and the Havelock Health Clinic expansion. The meeting also includes reviews of water utility and emergency services budget amendments.

• Selection of Construction Manager at Risk for Sudan Property Redevelopment Project
• Budget amendment for Havelock Health Clinic Expansion Project
• Approval of final subdivision for Hickory Run River Trace, Phase III
• Proposal for a new service/brush truck for Harlowe Volunteer Fire Department
• Closing of CDBG-DR-17-R-3011 grant with a budget amendment of ($998,848)

The Craven County Board of Commissioners approved the agenda and consent agenda unanimously. They adopted a $305,000 budget amendment for the Water Utility to replace motors and address increased leaks and usage. The Board also approved the final subdivision of Hickory Run River Trace, Phase III, and adopted several proclamations and resolutions, including a grant closeout ordinance and a resolution honoring Baptists on Mission.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda (7-0)
• Approved water utility budget amendment $305,000 (7-0)
• Approved Hickory Run River Trace Phase III subdivision (7-0)
• Adopted CDBG-DR-17-R-3011 grant closeout ordinance
• Adopted Resilient & Thriving Communities Week proclamation
• Adopted Baptists on Mission resolution

Board of Commissioners

The Craven County Board of Commissioners will vote on a consent agenda that includes tax refunds, two state-funded health budget amendments, sheriff's office donations, and proclamations. Departmental matters include a Social Services budget amendment for child welfare, a water system maintenance budget amendment, and a Clean Sweep award presentation. Public comment periods are scheduled for agenda and general topics.

• Approve tax refunds totaling $5,495.88 for ELA Kidsnet Holdings, LLC (2610 Neuse Boulevard, New Bern)
• Approve $1,895 budget amendment for child fatality prevention (car seats and playpens from state funds)
• Approve $11,760 budget amendment for adult primary care IT infrastructure (i2i Systems and CureMD)
• Accept $100 donation to Sheriff's Office for Animal Protective Services and $250 donation for discretionary use
• Adopt proclamations for Line Worker Appreciation Day (April 18) and World Autism Day/Awareness Month (April)

The Commissioners approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, which included tax refunds, health funding amendments, and two sheriff donation checks. They adopted proclamations for Line Worker Appreciation Day (April 18, 2025) and World Autism Day/Autism Awareness Month (April 2, 2025). The board also approved a $38,450 budget amendment for the Child Welfare Case Program. A $100,000 budget amendment for water system maintenance and repair was presented, but the minutes do not record a vote outcome.

• Approved agenda (7‑0 roll call)
• Approved consent agenda (7‑0 roll call) covering minutes, $9,659.87 tax credits, $9,493.13 refunds, health funding amendments, and sheriff donation checks
• Adopted Line Worker Appreciation Day proclamation (April 18, 2025)
• Adopted World Autism Day and Autism Awareness Month proclamation (April 2, 2025)
• Approved $38,450 Child Welfare Case Program budget amendment (7‑0 roll call)
• Presented $100,000 Water system maintenance and repair budget amendment (vote not recorded)
• Approved $100 sheriff donation check for Animal Protective Services (consent agenda)
• Approved $250 sheriff donation check for general supplies (consent agenda)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss budget amendments for health services, cybersecurity, and prison boarding. The meeting includes proposals for new fire apparatus for Rhems and Township Six Volunteer Fire Departments.

• Proposals for new fire apparatus for Rhems Volunteer Fire Department and Township Six Volunteer Fire Department
• Budget amendments for 340b Pharmacy and Hospice funding
• Budget amendment for State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP)
• Budget amendment for Sheriff's boarding prisoners account line
• Request for health department fee modifications

The Craven County Board of Commissioners approved a $400,000 budget amendment to replenish the Sheriff's Office boarding prisoners account, addressing overcrowding at the detention center. The board also approved fire district boundary changes, new fire apparatus proposals, health department budget amendments and fee increases, and several property conveyances.

• Approved $400,000 budget amendment for boarding prisoners (7-0)
• Approved fire insurance district amendment for Griffin Road (unanimous)
• Approved $155,000 budget amendment for 340b Pharmacy (unanimous)
• Approved $84,000 budget amendment for Hospice (unanimous)
• Approved health department fee modifications effective April 1, 2025 (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases and refunds (7-0)
• Approved resolution to accept offer and advertise upset bids for 206 Hollywood Blvd (7-0)
• Approved conveyance of 1009 Main St and 1013 Main St to BCJ Development, LLC (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board unanimously approved allocating $637,500 from the Capital Reserve for design work on the Craven County Government Center East project. They also authorized submitting the draft CAMA Land Use Plan to the NC Division of Coastal Management for review and approved a compensation study contract with Piedmont Triad Regional Council. The meeting was a work session with informational updates on transportation projects, microtransit feasibility, and capital projects.

• Approved $637,500 from Capital Reserve for Government Center East design (7-0)
• Authorized submission of draft CAMA Land Use Plan to Coastal Management (unanimous)
• Approved compensation study with Piedmont Triad Regional Council (6-1, Mitchell nay)
• Set FY26 budget work session dates: May 19-23, June 1, public hearing June 2, adoption June 16

Board of Commissioners

The Craven County Board of Commissioners held a special session to receive public input on the Opioid Epidemic Response Program. The opioid program manager presented data showing decreases in overdose-related emergency department visits, and discussed current strategies funded at $635,914 for FY25. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was for information and community feedback.

• Adjourned special session (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Craven County Board of Commissioners will vote on a consent agenda including tax refunds, several budget amendments, and minutes. Key departmental matters include a request to amend the county's incentive pay policy, a grant for the sheriff's office, and a budget amendment for a new lawn mower at Creekside Park. The board will also recess for a ribbon cutting at the Emergency Services Resiliency Renovation Project.

• Tax refunds totaling $22,738.95 for Stewart Equipment Company (2019-2024)
• Two health department budget amendments: $15,000 for foundation donations and $15,000 for additional vaccine funding
• Purchase of a John Deere Z950M lawn mower for Creekside Park via $9,350 budget amendment
• Sheriff's request for a Justice Assistance Grant budget amendment and a state-funded part-time bailiff position
• Human Resources request to amend the county incentive pay policy

The Craven County Board of Commissioners approved a budget amendment of $80,000 to build a batting cage and picnic shelter at Creekside Park, funded by a $40,000 Harold Bate Foundation grant and a $40,000 county match. The board also approved several other budget amendments, including $95,300 for senior services, $12,524 for a Sheriff's Office ID printer, and $15,000 for a part-time bailiff position. A personnel resolution amendment added a $240 per pay period night shift incentive for detention officers, approved 7-0. The board canceled the March 3 meeting due to lack of quorum and made several board appointments.

• Approved $80,000 budget amendment for Creekside Park batting cage and shelter (7-0)
• Approved $95,300 budget amendment for HCCBG ARPA funds for senior services (7-0)
• Approved $12,524 budget amendment for JAG grant for ID printer (7-0)
• Approved $15,000 budget amendment for part-time bailiff position (6-1)
• Approved personnel resolution amendment adding night shift incentive pay for detention officers (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases/refunds and budget amendments (7-0)
• Appointed Bud Stilley to Board of Adjustment, Carlos Kowalczewski to Recreation Advisory Board, Larry Mares and Karrie Hanford to Local Emergency Planning Committee, Bryan Ipock to Board of Equalization & Review
• Canceled March 3 Board meeting due to lack of quorum

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion of the Emergency Services Resiliency Renovation Project, which repaired flood damage from Hurricane Florence. The project cost nearly $12.4 million, largely covered by state and federal grants, and included a new handicap ramp and elevator. No formal decisions were made; the meeting adjourned unanimously after the ceremony.

• Adjourned meeting unanimously after ribbon cutting

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss budget amendments for the purchase of Chevrolet Tahoe trucks for the Sheriff and the addition of awarded funds for the Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams (START) program. The meeting also includes reports on delinquent taxes and tax lien advertisements.

• Budget amendment for Sheriff's Chevrolet Tahoe truck purchase
• Approval to add awarded funds to FY24/25 budget for Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams (START) program
• Tax release of $13,507.20 for Carolina East Health System (2015 Neuse Boulevard)
• Report of 2024 Delinquent Taxes
• Tax Lien Advertisement Date

The Craven County Board of Commissioners approved a $275,470 budget amendment to accept federal grant funds for the Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams (START) program, and a $19,087 budget amendment for a Sheriff's Chevrolet Tahoe purchase. They also authorized advertising 2024 tax liens, approved several property sale resolutions, and made appointments to boards.

• Approved $275,470 budget amendment for START program (7-0)
• Approved $19,087 budget amendment for Sheriff's Tahoe purchase (7-0)
• Authorized advertising 2024 tax liens in New Bern Sun Journal (7-0)
• Approved resolution for upset bid process on 1006 Williams St (7-0)
• Approved resolution for upset bid process on 724 Oak St (7-0)
• Approved conveyance of 513 First Ave to BCJ Development for $2,885 (7-0)
• Reappointed members to Fire Tax Commissioners Board and Fireman's Relief Fund Board
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases and refunds (7-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board will hear presentations on the Coastal Center for Hope and Healing, the MPO's Safer Neuse for New Bern RAISE grant opportunity, and the 2024 annual audit. They will consider approving a resolution of support for the RAISE grant application. Departmental matters include an all-way stop proposal for Old US Highway 70/Dry Monia Road/Tuscarora Rhems Road and a budget amendment for the Courthouse and Emergency Operations Center recovery project.

• Resolution of support for NCDOT's RAISE grant application for Neuse Boulevard safety improvements (sidewalks, bike lanes, pedestrian crossings, 2.1 miles)
• All-way stop proposal at Old US Highway 70, Dry Monia Road, and Tuscarora Rhems Road
• Budget amendment for Courthouse and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) recovery project
• Tax releases and refunds (consent agenda)
• Presentation of the county's 2024 annual audit

The Board approved a $1,456,000 budget amendment for the Courthouse and EOC Recovery Project to replace HVAC infrastructure in the Old Courthouse, with work totaling $728,000 and the remainder reflecting a transfer from the Capital Reserve Fund. They also adopted a resolution supporting NCDOT's all-way stop at Old US 70 and Tuscarora Rhems/Dry Monia Road, and approved several appointments. The meeting included presentations on the Coastal Center for Hope and Healing, a RAISE grant opportunity for Neuse Boulevard, and the county's 2024 annual audit.

• Approved $1,456,000 budget amendment for Courthouse HVAC replacement (7-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting NCDOT all-way stop at Old US 70 & Tuscarora Rhems/Dry Monia Rd (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax releases/refunds ($7,016.72 credits, $459.32 refunds) (7-0)
• Appointed Adia Coleman to Craven County Health Board (acclamation)
• Appointed William Treweek to Craven County Planning Board (acclamation)
• Reappointed Michael Paul and Keith Morris to EMS Advisory Council (acclamation)
• Reappointed Shane Turney and Timothy Mason to Fire Tax Commissioners Board of Trustees (acclamation)
• Approved $50,000 budget amendment for Sheriff's Office undercover narcotics operations (6-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the Project Emerald Grant Agreement and Resolution. They will also consider a resolution of support for a RAISE grant to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety on Neuse Boulevard (NC 55).

• Public hearing on Project Emerald Grant Agreement and Resolution
• Resolution of Support for 'A Safer Neuse for New Bern' RAISE grant for NC 55
• Budget amendment for Emergency Services Duke Grant award
• Budget amendment for ENC Tech Bridge Grant modification
• Approval of tax releases and refunds

The Craven County Board of Commissioners approved a $300,000 economic development grant agreement with Efird Commercial Real Estate LLC for a new industrial warehouse at the Craven County Industrial Park. The board also approved budget amendments for a Duke Energy grant and an ENC Tech Bridge grant modification, and postponed a resolution supporting a RAISE grant for Neuse Boulevard safety improvements until the next meeting. Several property sale resolutions were approved, and the board entered closed session for attorney-client privilege and business location discussions.

• Approved $300,000 economic development grant to Efird Commercial Real Estate LLC for Project Emerald (6-0)
• Approved $25,010 budget amendment for Duke Energy grant to purchase emergency communications platform (6-0)
• Approved $549,121 budget amendment for ENC Tech Bridge grant modification (6-0)
• Postponed RAISE grant resolution for Neuse Boulevard safety improvements to next meeting (4-2)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes and tax releases/refunds (6-0)
• Approved resolutions to accept offers and initiate upset bid process for five tax-foreclosed properties (6-0 each)
• Approved conveyance of 1110 Mechanic Street after upset bid period (6-0)
• Approved $37,500 budget amendment for government relations services with NC Capitol Strategies (unanimous)