During the May 19, 2025, Board of County Commissioners meeting in Pender County, a significant discussion centered around the funding of a new sewer system, highlighting concerns about who should bear the costs associated with development projects. Commissioner Blue expressed strong opposition to a proposed agreement, emphasizing that the financial burden of the sewer system should not fall on the citizens but rather on the developers responsible for the project.
The conversation delved into the structure of the county's enterprise fund, which is designed to ensure that only those who utilize public utilities, such as water and sewer services, are responsible for the associated costs. Commissioner Cline clarified that the fees collected from developers and residents using these services are intended for the maintenance of the utility systems, ensuring that taxpayers who do not use these services are not unfairly charged.
The board ultimately moved to approve the funding proposal for the sewer system, with a vote reflecting a mix of support and dissent among the commissioners. This decision will impact approximately 750 families who will share the costs associated with the new infrastructure.
In addition to the sewer system discussion, the meeting included appointments to various county parks, although details on these appointments were not elaborated upon. The outcomes of this meeting are expected to influence future development and utility management in Pender County, as officials continue to navigate the balance between community needs and developer responsibilities.