WHITEVILLE — Columbus County commissioners will take up a packed agenda Monday night that includes two potential ballot referendums, major funding decisions, and multiple settlement agreements involving opioids and PFAS contamination.
The board meets at 6:30 p.m. at the Dempsey B. Herring Government Center on West Webster Street.
Alcohol Referendum Heads to a Vote
One of the most closely watched items is a proposal from Commissioner Lavern Coleman to place a countywide alcohol referendum on the November 3, 2026 ballot. The resolution would allow voters to decide whether to permit:
- On‑premises and off‑premises sale of malt beverages
- On‑premises and off‑premises sale of unfortified wine
- Mixed‑beverage sales in hotels, restaurants, private clubs, community theatres, and convention centers
If approved, it would mark the first countywide alcohol vote since 2003.
Quarter‑Cent Sales Tax Referendum Also Proposed
Commissioners will also consider a second ballot measure — a ¼‑cent sales tax referendum — with proceeds earmarked for:
- School facility restoration
- Emergency Medical Services
- Parks and Recreation
If approved, this referendum would also appear on the November 2026 ballot.
County to Consider PFAS and Opioid Settlements
Interim County Attorney Misty Jorgensen is requesting approval for two major legal agreements:
- Participation in the Remnant Defendant Opioid Settlement, which could bring additional opioid‑response funding to the county
- Approval of the Tyco Fire Products LP PFAS settlement, tied to contamination from firefighting foam
Both settlements could provide new revenue streams for public health and environmental mitigation.
Airport Grant Up for Approval
County Manager Eddie Madden is asking commissioners to accept a $70,693 State Aid to Airports Block Grant from the N.C. Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation. The grant requires a 5% local match of $3,720.70, which would come from the county’s Transportation Reserve Direct Funding allocation.
Flood‑Damaged Home Demolitions
Planning Director Bridgette Spann is seeking approval of low bids for demolition of three flood‑damaged homes under the FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA 2020) program:
- 1833 Clarendon Chadbourn Road — $14,300
- 638 Water Tower Road — $23,500 (includes asbestos abatement)
- 893 Water Tower Road — $10,700
These demolitions are part of ongoing voluntary buyouts in flood‑prone areas.
Senior Meal Programs Seek $164,000 Boost
The Department of Aging is requesting a $164,000 budget amendment to support congregate and home‑delivered meals, citing rising food costs and increased demand among seniors.
Other Business
Commissioners will also consider:
- The March DSS monthly report
- The February finance report, budget amendments, and requisitions
- A resolution recognizing Lineman Appreciation Month
- A letter of appreciation for county telecommunicators
- Employee Spotlight recognition for Mickie Nance of the Finance Department
The board will recess into a meeting of the Water and Sewer Districts I–V to consider a project ordinance amendment for the Hwy 74/76 Force Main to Brunswick County.
Commissioners and the county manager will offer closing comments before adjournment.
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