In the heart of Pender County, the Board of County Commissioners convened on May 19, 2025, where a series of impassioned public comments highlighted pressing concerns about local governance and infrastructure. The atmosphere was charged as residents voiced their frustrations over issues ranging from workplace dysfunction to the challenges posed by rapid development.

Shannon Lloyd, a former employee of the Pender County ABC Board, opened the public comment session with a heartfelt account of her resignation after five years of what she described as a toxic work environment. Lloyd detailed her struggles with workplace safety and management's lack of support, particularly regarding an incident where heavy cases fell on her. Her plea for accountability resonated with the audience, as she emphasized the need for a more supportive and fair workplace culture.

Following Lloyd, Lance Roselle raised serious allegations of corruption within the county. He recounted his ongoing battle to obtain public records related to his wrongful trespassing charge, claiming that officials had ignored his requests and failed to address his concerns. Roselle's accusations painted a troubling picture of transparency and accountability in local governance, leaving many in the room questioning the integrity of their public officials.

Cindy Marker, a resident of Hampstead, shifted the focus to the rapid residential development in the area, which she argued was outpacing the necessary infrastructure improvements. She expressed deep concern for public safety, citing traffic congestion that hampers emergency response times. Marker urged the commissioners to consider a moratorium on new developments until the infrastructure could adequately support the growing population. Her call for action underscored the urgent need for a balanced approach to development that prioritizes community well-being.

The commissioners responded to these concerns with a mix of understanding and legal limitations. They acknowledged the challenges posed by existing statutes that restrict their ability to halt developments that have already been approved. The discussion revealed a complex interplay between local governance and state regulations, leaving residents feeling frustrated yet hopeful for future changes.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners encouraged residents to engage with state legislators to advocate for stronger regulations that could help manage the rapid growth and its associated challenges. The evening left attendees with a sense of urgency and a call to action, as they pondered the future of Pender County amidst the pressures of development and the need for accountability in local governance.