Washington County commissioners approve consent items, appointments and budget transfers

The Washington County Board of Commissioners approved several routine actions Oct. 3, including proclamations, policy updates, appointments and budget transfers.

The consent agenda passed unanimously and included approval of Sept. 6 minutes; tax refunds and releases; proclamations for Fire Prevention Week, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Domestic Violence Awareness Month and support for Operation Green Light for transitioning service members; authorization to sell real property by electronic public auction pursuant to G.S. 160A-270; and an update to the county procurement and purchasing policy (RESO 2022-038 through RESO 2022-043).

The board appointed Charles Weathersbee (manager, Big Al’s Garage) and Keith Davenport (owner, Davenport’s Trucking Company/Davenport’s Sand Company) to fill two vacancies on the Washington County Planning Board after the Planning Board recommended the nominees; the motion carried unanimously.

Finance Officer Missy Dixon presented budget transfers and amendments, which Commissioner Bill Sexton moved to approve; Commissioner Ann Keyes seconded and the motion passed unanimously. Dixon also said a draft audit will include a finding related to landfill closure/post-closure capacity that will require an accounting adjustment.

Commissioner Ann Keyes moved to enter closed session under NCGS §143-318.11(a)(3) (attorney-client privilege) and §143-318.11(a)(6) (personnel); Commissioner Julius Walker Jr. seconded and the board voted unanimously to go into closed session. After returning to open session, Commissioner Bill Sexton moved to adjourn; Commissioner Ann Keyes seconded and the meeting ended by unanimous vote.

Actions at a glance:
- Consent agenda approved (includes RESO 2022-038 through RESO 2022-043) — unanimous.
- Appointments: Charles Weathersbee and Keith Davenport to Planning Board — unanimous.
- Budget amendments/transfers approved — unanimous.
- Closed session called under NCGS §143-318.11(a)(3) and (a)(6) — unanimous.
- Meeting adjourned — unanimous.

Next steps: County Manager Curtis Potter said he will draft a letter of support for the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Ramsar nomination for the board’s consideration at the November meeting.