Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pender County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in schools with high priority
Bus Driver Shortage and Transportation
The district needs 90 drivers to run 90 buses and often falls short. Radios, cloud cameras and lockboxes improved safety, but recruiting stays tough given split-shift hours and benefit limits.
CFCC Burgaw building roof leaks
A Pender Early College teacher said the leaky roof at the CFCC Burgaw building has gone unfixed for three years despite state repair funds available with a county match. The chairman asked that it be included in next year's budget.
Pender County Schools funding request
Several residents called for full school funding; the final budget added $6 million of the schools' capital request from the fund balance.
School Roofing Repairs (~$1.5 Million)
Roofs at the Cape Fear Community College Burgaw campus, Topsail Annandale and Pender High's Bibby Hall are failing. Topsail Annandale is the most critical. Requests will go through the county budget process.