Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pender County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues with critical priority
Western Pender treated water
Commissioners learned the planned water line from Harrells cannot deliver enough pressure for the west-side extension — a big surprise to some. Staff says water must come from Penderlee or Malpass Corner instead, or via small standalone well systems.
Property tax reappraisal burden
Pender County's first property reappraisal in seven years covered about 55,000 properties and has already generated 623 appeals. The board wanted to suspend or alter the process but was advised it legally can't once the schedule of values is adopted. Property owners now have until October 1 to appeal their new values.
2026 Property Tax Revaluation Suspended
Dozens of residents complained their property appraisals were inaccurate and inconsistent, and the board unanimously suspended the 2026 revaluation, hired a reviewer for Vincent Valuations' figures, and moved the revaluation to 2027. The county paid the firm about $2.3 million.
FY 2026-2027 County Budget
Commissioners wrestled with a growing list of recurring positions against rising property values from revaluation, urging the manager to fund only what's essential and consider a hiring freeze on discretionary adds.
Water system participation fee refunds
About 1,552 homeowners paid water connection fees years ago, and the county is still sorting records before deciding on refunds with interest. The item returns August.
Tax Assessment Complaints
Residents challenged mobile home tax misclassifications and assessment practices; commissioners also pressed Vincent Valuations on the $800/day appeal-extension fee.