Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pender County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in public safety with medium priority
Student safety crossing Highway 17 in Hampstead
Commissioner Beth Burns is working to set up a meeting between the school district and NCDOT for a crosswalk and pedestrian signals near the Hampstead library, after students were seen dodging traffic on Highway 17.
Feral Cat Management Policy
Residents pushed for a trap-neuter-vaccinate-return program, citing 1,150 cat intakes in eight months and warning that euthanization won't stop reproduction. An ordinance discussion was moved to October 19.
Solid waste enforcement
With 83 cases this year and one code officer handling 20 zoning cases a month, the county added a dedicated solid-waste enforcement officer.
Opioid Settlement Funds Spending
Three consent items direct about $487,000 in opioid settlement money toward year three of the Health Opioid Coordinator, the Sheriff's DARE program, and Coastal Horizons' PORT recovery program.
Courthouse Square safety hazard
Fennel reported holes in Burgaw's Courthouse Square causing falls and ankle injuries. Sawyer confirmed it's the county's responsibility and Parks & Recreation is assessing repairs.
High Hazard burn designation
Pender is now a High Hazard County — burn permits are required year-round within 500 feet of brush.
Station 9 Fire Protection System
The new EMS & Fire Station 9 was built without code-required sprinklers; commissioners approved $98,561 to fix it.
Radio coverage dead spots
Deputies in areas like Maple Hill can't call out from dead zones — commissioners want it addressed, but fixing it means building towers, a large capital project not in this year's request.
DHHS building security
The new two-story DHHS building will house CPS clients and possibly apartments — the sheriff asked for one more deputy there, but Commissioner Tate argued two or three are needed, suggesting contract security for the metal detector instead.