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.
County leadership transition
Sharon Griffin is retiring as county manager, and the board picked Matt Reynal to hold the fort as interim manager starting November 2. Trey Ferguson takes over as county attorney October 1. The goal is a smooth handoff with Griffin staying through year-end to help.
FY 2026-27 Budget and Tax Rate
The county locked in next year's budget at a 22.5-cent tax rate after a debate over cutting a penny. Commissioners Clark and Shinn argued surpluses show room to give money back; the majority pointed to a pending salary study, rising insurance costs, and sales tax uncertainty. A penny is worth about $14 a month to the average homeowner.
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.
FY 2026-27 Recommended Budget
The board approved about $1.1 million in budget amendments, including $182,950 in lottery funds for school building repairs, $608,000 for courthouse repairs and other purposes, and a paramedic housing unit at Mill Creek. These fund repairs and services residents use directly.