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A staff report

The Bladen County Board of Commissioners convened for their regular meeting on February 19, 2024, at the Bladen County Courthouse in Elizabethtown. The meeting, attended by all commissioners and presided over by Chairman Charles R. Peterson, covered various agenda items crucial to the county’s governance and development.

The Reverend Jonathan Hayes from Wesley’s Chapel Church delivered the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Dr. Amanda Lee, President of Bladen Community College.

Consent Items:

The board unanimously approved the agenda and minutes of previous meetings. Additionally, budget amendments for various departments were approved, including those for Tax Administration, GIS, Sheriff’s Office, Animal Control, Health-Environmental, Parks and Recreation, Library, and ARPA Enabled Projects. Attorney fees for the Johnson Law Firm and amended sick leave and vacation policies were also approved.

Public Hearing:

A public hearing was held to receive comments on the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget Priorities. Jonathan Langston addressed the board, advocating for the maintenance and expansion of walking/hiking trails in Bladen County, highlighting their benefits in promoting health and attracting visitors.

Individuals/Delegations Wishing to Address Commissioners:

Ms. Crystal Amirkhanian from Friends of the Bladen County Public Library encouraged membership and shared updates on library initiatives.

Matters of Interest to Commissioners:

The board approved funding requests for the Cape Fear River Bridge lighting project and Elizabethtown Airport runway rehabilitation project, supporting infrastructure improvements in the county.

Bladen County Water District:

The board entered a session as the Bladen County Water District Board of Directors and approved a resolution regarding ARP funding for an asset inventory and assessment study.

Bladen Community College:

Dr. Amanda Lee presented a request for the acquisition of the Booker T. Washington School facility to expand campus programs. The board unanimously supported the request for FY 2024-25 Capital and Operating Budget.

Finance Office:

Lisa Coleman, Finance Officer, presented financial dashboards and summaries, providing insight into the county’s financial health.

Advisory Board Appointments:

Appointments were made to the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council and Nursing Home Advisory Committee.

Closed Session:

The board entered a closed session to discuss attorney-client privilege and personnel matters, including the interim county manager search and permanent county manager resumes.

Following discussions and decisions on various agenda items, the meeting concluded with plans to forego the search for an interim county manager, with Chairman Peterson assuming interim responsibilities. The board adjourned with a commitment to continue serving the interests of Bladen County.

View the latest Board of Commissioners’ meeting held on March 4, 2024, on the County of Bladen’s YouTube Channel linked below.