During a recent government meeting, officials discussed pressing concerns regarding local maintenance and safety, particularly focusing on mowing contracts and the condition of the Deborah Dam.

The conversation began with a proposal to increase mowing frequency in certain areas, which would require contracting out the work due to safety concerns related to traffic on high-speed roads. Officials noted that the current budget allows for only $3,200 annually for mowing, which is insufficient. Contracting out the service could cost approximately $9,000 per cut, leading to an estimated annual expenditure of around $250,000 if the desired frequency is achieved. The recommendation to contract out was driven by safety considerations, as specialized training is necessary for crews to operate in these high-traffic areas. Officials expressed frustration over the inadequate service provided by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), particularly regarding litter accumulation on major roads, prompting calls for more frequent mowing.

The second major topic addressed was the Deborah Dam, where officials sought to clarify the risks associated with its operation. Following a recent tropical storm, there were concerns about the dam's potential for failure. However, officials reassured the community that there was no imminent risk during the storm. The town had proactively lowered water levels in anticipation of heavy rainfall, and when levels began to rise unexpectedly, the emergency action plan was activated. This included coordination with the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and local emergency services to manage the situation effectively.

Officials confirmed that the dam's operations and maintenance plans are compliant with DEQ regulations, and inspections are conducted regularly. They also discussed plans to enhance communication with residents living near the dam, providing updates on safety measures and potential improvements, such as installing a spillway to better manage future rain events.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to explore options for improving dam safety and to address community concerns regarding both the dam and local maintenance issues in future discussions.