Carteret County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Carteret County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Superior Court building repairs
An $863,000 contract with RiverOak Contracting fixes the courthouse's HVAC system and roof insulation — keeping the historic courthouse functional for courts and visitors.
Water System Sale Proceeds Restricted to Capital
About $7.5 million from the water system sale is now formally set aside for capital projects instead of sitting in an unrestricted account. It could fund things like the jail, parks, or courthouse work — but a future board could still redirect it with a majority vote.
Board of Elections Staff Salaries
The League of Women Voters asked commissioners again to raise Board of Elections staff pay, saying the director is one of the lowest-paid department heads despite heavy legal responsibilities. The request has been made repeatedly since 2023.
County Financial Health and FY 2025 Audit
The county ended FY 2025 with $8.16 million more revenue than spending, a $49.94 million rainy-day fund, a clean audit opinion, and a triple-A bond rating — strong footing heading into budget season.