Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lumberton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues
Levee accreditation and floodgate progress
The floodgate got an extra $1.5 million in grant money plus approved change orders, but it won't be operational by June 1. Officials hope it works by the height of hurricane season in the fall.
Failing sewer infrastructure and emergency repairs
Council approved emergency replacement of collapsed sewer lines on three streets, a $2.17 million low-interest loan for broader sewer upgrades, and the RFQ for a $4.8 million lead service line replacement grant.
Lead service line replacement
The city kept investing grant money in inventorying and replacing lead water pipes required by federal rules, and awarded the engineering work for sewer improvements.
Christmas holiday schedule for city employees
After a spirited debate over costs and fairness to essential workers, employees get Dec. 24, 25, 28 plus an extra paid day on Wednesday, Dec. 23 — a win pushed by Councilman Rising.
Data center regulation
Council directed staff to draft an overlay ordinance regulating where and how data centers can develop, with rigid restrictions, responding to recent inquiries.
Linkhaw Farms mixed-use subdivision annexation
Two massive annexation petitions — roughly 395 acres for a mixed-use development and 389 acres for a residential subdivision — moved forward, with the clerk directed to investigate. These could reshape growth on the city's edge.