Pender County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pender County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Pender EMS & Fire Merger
County staff were set to report that the July 2026 merger of fire and EMS services took effect without service interruption, but both divisions remain short-staffed — fire down 26 of 96 firefighters and EMS down 26 of 92 employees. Crews have been closing stations on occasion and working heavy overtime. The update was for information only, with no action requested.
EMS/Fire merger effective July 5
County staff were set to report that the July 2026 merger of fire and EMS services took effect without service interruption, but both divisions remain short-staffed — fire down 26 of 96 firefighters and EMS down 26 of 92 employees. Crews have been closing stations on occasion and working heavy overtime. The update was for information only, with no action requested.
Ambulance Fleet Replacement
The board was to consider spending $2.89 million on five new ambulances with updated technology — the biggest single purchase on the agenda and directly tied to emergency response capacity.
Emergency Services Merger — REDLG Obligations
The merger of county EMS and fire services is on track for July 2026. Commissioner Tate pushed hard on making sure veteran EMS/fire workers don't lose retirement benefits; staff explained longevity payouts and 401K rollovers for legacy staff.
Countywide physical security refresh
Phase 2 puts all county building security under one system for about $503,000; the price lock expires August 1.
Pender EMS & Fire debt payoff
The board voted to pay $10.14 million of the merger entity's loans and leases from reserves, freeing annual debt payments and cutting interest, with the remainder paid off in five years.
Law Enforcement Center cost increases
A $556,371 railing change order was approved 4-1, delaying the jail opening while the sheriff's office and 911 move in first. Commissioner Springer also pressed for a price on a taller exterior fence.
Novant Health Pender Medical Center update
Novant reaffirmed its $50 million, 10-year commitment from the 2023 sale, and Scotts Hill Medical Center opens June 16, 2026 — a major addition of hospital beds, surgery and cardiac services for the county.
Law Enforcement Center Completion
Approved $272,527 for high-density storage in the new LEC; commissioners also pushed the contractor on lighting that bothers neighbors.
Staffing the expanded Law Enforcement Center and jail
Vice Chairman George flagged concerns about having enough custodians, grounds crew, and IT staff for the new Law Enforcement Center. Staff say those positions are covered in department budgets.
Fire and rescue funding requests
Seven fire departments, the rescue squad, the Forestry Service, and the Fire Marshal's Office made their annual pitches. Most asked for flat funding; Burgaw and Atkinson sought notable increases, and the Fire Marshal wants a new vehicle and an assistant.
Construction dust affecting nearby families
Resident Tina Best described heavy sand and dust blowing from the Point South construction site onto her family's 36-acre farm, with health impacts for sick family members. Staff and the developer offered to meet with her, but she said the developer hasn't returned her calls.
Vaping in Schools
68 vaping incidents at high schools, 20 at middle schools and one at an elementary this year. Officials warn vapes may contain illicit drugs including fentanyl. The SBI presentation was postponed; CATCH My Breath education is being used.
Pelican Reef fatal crash and traffic safety
A resident was killed at the Pelican Reef entrance, and Vice Chair George is urging residents to attend the Jan. 28 WMPO meeting pushing for a traffic light there.