During the Person County Commissioners' budget work session on June 6, 2025, a significant focus was placed on enhancing communication and refining the county's strategic plan, particularly regarding economic growth and development.

Commissioners discussed the importance of adhering to open government policies while addressing public records requests, emphasizing the need for measurable communication strategies. One commissioner noted, "Communication is a priority... it just depends on the situation," highlighting the subjective nature of public engagement.

The session also delved into the county's strategic plan, which was adopted in February 2024 to guide the fiscal year 2025 budget process. Suggestions for rewording specific goals related to economic opportunity were made, with a focus on ensuring that county facilities meet public needs and addressing ongoing projects. A feasibility study for emergency services was mentioned, indicating a proactive approach to community safety.

A notable point of contention arose regarding the county's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). Some commissioners expressed frustration with the current UDO, advocating for a return to existing ordinances that they believe are more user-friendly. One commissioner recounted a unanimous motion from the planning board to abandon the UDO, stating, "It’s really easy now with those 8 ordinances to look at what you're trying to find instead of going through a big, ominous document."

The discussion also touched on the potential for conducting a community survey to gather feedback on county services. While some commissioners were skeptical about the effectiveness of such surveys, others recognized their value in identifying community needs and areas for improvement.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners agreed to eliminate certain goals from the strategic plan and emphasized the necessity of incorporating economic development into the county's vision statement. One commissioner passionately argued, "This county is gonna live or die by economic development," underscoring the urgency of preparing for upcoming opportunities in the region.

The session highlighted the commissioners' commitment to refining their strategic approach and ensuring that Person County is well-positioned for future growth and community engagement.