The Onslow County Board of Commissioners convened on January 1, 2025, to address several pressing community concerns, including noise complaints from a nearby gun range and issues related to road maintenance.

The meeting began with public comments, where residents expressed their frustrations regarding a gun range located near their homes. Taylor Green, a resident of Highway 172 in Sneads Ferry, detailed the ongoing disturbances caused by the Bridal Gun Club, which he claimed operates like a public shooting range. Green reported that the noise from gunfire, which occurs throughout the week and even at night, has made it difficult for his family to enjoy their home. He emphasized the impact on his stepdaughter's children, who are unable to play outside due to safety concerns. Green called for clearer regulations regarding the operation of shooting ranges and better enforcement of existing noise ordinances.

Victoria Scott, also from Highway 172, echoed Green's concerns, highlighting the negative effects on her grandchildren and the children at her nearby preschool. She noted that the shooting occurs at all hours, disrupting outdoor activities for both children and residents. Scott urged the commissioners to take action to mitigate the noise and ensure the safety of the community.

Alexis Fretwell, another resident living adjacent to the gun range, shared her experience of having to keep her children indoors due to the constant noise. She described the distress caused by the gunfire, which even disrupts their sleep at night. Fretwell expressed a desire for the shooting to be directed away from residential areas to allow her children to play outside safely.

Following the discussions on the gun range, Timothy Bogey raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of Baynard Manor, a private road that he claimed is causing significant damage to vehicles. He presented evidence of the road's poor state and the financial burden it places on residents. Bogey requested assistance from the board in addressing the road maintenance issue, emphasizing the potential consequences if the road remains unaddressed, including disruptions to mail delivery.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to consider the residents' concerns and explore possible solutions to both the noise from the gun range and the road maintenance issues. The commissioners acknowledged the importance of community safety and the need for effective enforcement of existing regulations. Further discussions and follow-up actions are expected in future meetings as the board seeks to address these pressing community issues.