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Abby Cavenaugh

Duplin County eyes major bond savings

Duplin County eyes major bond savings

KENANSVILLE — A proposal to refinance Duplin County’s 2016 Limited Obligation Bonds topped the agenda at the September Commissioners meeting, with officials approving the first step in a process that could save the county approximately $1.4 million over the remaining life of the bonds.

In a unanimous decision, commissioners authorized Davenport & Company to explore refinancing options for these bonds. If interest rates remain favorable, refinancing could lead to significant savings over the remaining 10-year term. Ty Welford, economic advisor with Davenport, explained that the bonds, originally issued for school projects, can now be refinanced at a lower interest rate. This approval allows the county’s financial advisor to seek better interest rates either in the bank market or through a public bond sale.

Welford emphasized that there is no financial risk to the county because Davenport will not be compensated if the refinancing does not proceed or does not result in favorable terms.

“It checks all the boxes that you would typically want to see as it relates to a potential refinancing,” Welford explained. “We think if we can get an attractive bank rate and a bank bid, it’s going to be a lot more cost-effective and quick for the county to be able to do that and lock in those savings.”

The process is expected to progress swiftly, with results set to be presented to the Board in November, including concrete proposals and savings calculations.

In other business:

  • Stella Simpson, who retired after nearly 30 years with the Duplin County Department of Social Services, was honored with a county retiree plaque and the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of North Carolina’s highest civilian honors. She was recognized for her decades of dedicated service to the community.

  • The board has approved a revision to the performance-based economic development incentive for Project Pair, which involves a $2.3 million expansion of a grain storage facility in Rose Hill. This facility belongs to a long-standing agricultural business and a key employer in Duplin County whose name was withheld for privacy.

The expansion aims to enhance efficiency during the harvest season. The revision reflects an increase in local investment from $30 million to $41 million, which prompted a change in the original incentive terms that had been previously approved. The county will reimburse a portion of the property taxes on the new improvements over a 10-year period: 80% reimbursement for the first five years and 50% for the following five years, contingent upon the investment of at least $41 million and the creation of five new jobs. On average, this amounts to an annual incentive of approximately $154,600, while the county will still net around $83,200 in new annual tax revenue during the incentive period.

According to Scotty Summerlin, Economic Development Director, this project will add critical grain storage capacity, accelerate harvest operations, and reduce costs for farmers in at least seven counties, thereby enhancing agricultural efficiency throughout the region. After the 10-year incentive period, the county will collect full tax revenue, and the agreement includes performance-based clawbacks to safeguard public investment.

  • County Planner Chris Hatcher presented plans for the county to apply for Community Development Block Grant – Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) funds. This program focuses on housing rehabilitation for low- and moderate-income residents.

“We would request a list of potential candidates from the county, but I would like to note that as of today, we have approximately 24 that we’re going to be in review for this next round of applications. I received 18 about 30 minutes ago,” Hatcher explained, thanking Commissioner Wayne Branch for his role in building the applicant pool, having proactively reached out last year and again before the meeting to provide a detailed list of prospective applicants.

Commissioners also approved a required second public hearing, scheduled for Oct. 6, to advance the application process.

“This is reimbursed, so the county does put that money up front, but we are reimbursed 100% of this. We are currently under two grants, two (CDBG-NR)’s right now. Both of those equaling approximately $950,000 a piece,” said Hatcher. “We have $1.9 million in grant funds, which is amazing, I will say. We are helping a lot of people.”

The board also held a series of public hearings to address road naming requests. After receiving no public opposition, the board approved names for the following new lanes: Walker Estates Drive, Brothers Diaz Boulevard, Oakwood Drive, Maready Farm Lane, and Brenda Gail Lane.

JSCC President Jay Carraway announces 2026 retirement

JSCC President Jay Carraway announces 2026 retirement

KENANSVILLE — After more than four decades in education, including six years as president of James Sprunt Community College, Jay Carraway has announced his retirement, effective February 2026.

In a school announcement earlier this week, Carraway underscored his commitment to continue serving the college until the end of his tenure.

“Serving as President of JSCC has been the most meaningful and rewarding period of my 43-year career in education,” said Carraway. “We have accomplished so much together.”

Since taking office in April 2019, Carraway has guided JSCC through significant changes and challenges, including the global pandemic. Under his leadership, the college has strengthened workforce development programs, increased access for underserved communities, and enhanced collaboration with local industry.

Carraway is regarded as a leader whose vision and dedication have significantly influenced JSCC, contributing to a legacy of growth, innovation, and community spirit. His retirement represents a notable transition in leadership for the college.

According to the college’s announcement, the Board of Trustees will initiate the search for Carraway’s successor in the near future.

Warsaw Wastewater Plant restarts after major spill into Stewarts Creek

Over 9 million gallons of partially treated wastewater released during 10-day breakdown

WARSAW — The Warsaw Wastewater Treatment Plant is back online after a major failure that resulted in millions of gallons of partially treated wastewater flowing into Stewarts Creek from Aug. 22 through Aug. 28 This incident is part of an ongoing series of environmental and regulatory challenges linked to chronic industrial overloading.

“During the period of repairs from Aug. 18-28, the treatment plant upset led to approximately 9.6 million gallons of partially treated waste reaching Stewarts Creek,” a spokesperson with the North Carolina Division of Water Resources (DWR) told Duplin Journal.

The DWR confirmed that the treatment plan is back online as of Friday, Aug. 29. The DWR spokesperson shared that the facility is once again treating wastewater, but efforts are still underway to bring the plant into full compliance with its discharge permit limits.

This discharge incident highlights a long-standing issue with regulatory noncompliance, primarily due to industrial overloading from two major users: Villari Foods Group and C2NC.

Even before the recent failure, the plant had been facing operational challenges, including excessive levels of ammonia, nitrogen, and Biochemical Oxygen Demand, which often far exceeded the limits set under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System.

In the last couple of years, the town’s wastewater penalties have significantly increased, reflecting ongoing compliance issues. In 2023, total fines reached $12,459.56, with violations occurring in September and December. In 2024, penalties surged to $70,149.06 — over five times the previous year’s total. By the first quarter of 2025, fines escalated to $115,100.53, with a notable fine of $54,363.51 recorded in March, marking the highest monthly penalty to date.

“DWR has assessed civil penalties to the town in response to violations of the treatment plant’s permit conditions, including violations of permit limits for parameters including fecal coliform, ammonia and total suspended solids in its treated wastewater effluent. The total paid in 2025 is $144,234.57,” DWR told Duplin Journal.

Guidelines to submit a Letter to the Editor

Guidelines to submit a Letter to the Editor

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Letters can be sent to ena@northstatejournal.com
Include your full name, address and phone number (for verification, not publication).

Swing for a Cure aims to raise record funds for cancer research

Swing for a Cure aims to raise record funds for cancer research

WALLACE — River Landing’s annual Swing for a Cure fundraiser is set to return this October, with a goal of exceeding last year’s donation of $20,000 to ECU Health Cancer Center. Organized by the River Landing Golf Association for Ladies (RLGALS), this multi-day event will culminate in an 18-hole charity tournament on Oct. 18. One of the community’s favorite traditions, a dramatic helicopter golf ball drop offering exciting prizes, will also take place.

Leading up to the main tournament, RLGALS will host Putting for Pink on Oct. 8 and 11. This event invites residents and guests of all ages to participate in a 5-hole putting challenge for just $10 per adult and $2 per child. Half of the proceeds will go directly to cancer research.

“Whether you play, volunteer, or simply attend, every contribution brings us closer to a cure,” said Chris Rollins, event chair.

One of the most anticipated highlights will occur at 4 p.m. on tournament day when hundreds of numbered golf balls will be dropped from a helicopter. The three balls landing closest to the pin will divide the proceeds: 25% to the first place, 15% to the second, and 10% to the third. Helicopter ball drop tickets are available, priced at $20 for three balls or $100 for 25 balls. The deadline to purchase is Oct. 12 at noon.

The entry fee for the tournament is $150, which includes a scramble-format round, snacks, beverages, lunch, and a $100 donation. Non-members are welcome to participate for $170 per person.

To purchase tickets, email Elaine Frater at efrater@aol.com, Diane Brostowin at dianebrostowin@gmail.com, Terrie Fritz at momof3wv@gmail.com, or Margaret Overby at margaretcoverby@aol.com. Payments can be made by cash or check, payable to RLGALS.

For more than two decades Swing for a Cure has evolved from a single golf outing into a major fundraising initiative, fueled by dedicated volunteers and the generosity of the community.

Eagle Scout project leaves lasting mark on Wallace Elementary

Eagle Scout project leaves lasting mark on Wallace Elementary

WALLACE — At just 14 years old, Hayes Skidmore is already making a significant impact in his community. A former student of Wallace Elementary School and a dedicated baseball player, Hayes recognized an opportunity to create lasting change through teamwork and a visionary idea. For his Eagle Scout project, he focused on establishing a space where future athletes could build their confidence and develop their skills.

“I remember how hard it was to practice without [a batting cage],” said Hayes. “I thought if I could give the kids a place to improve their skills and enjoy the game.”

Thanks to Hayes’ efforts, Wallace Elementary has a new batting cage — a structure that will serve students for years, giving them a safe, dedicated space to practice and dream. Today, the cage serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of age, can be a catalyst for change.

With help from local businesses, donors and his Scout troop, Hayes raised the funds, coordinated logistics and oversaw the multi-day build from start to finish. Throughout the process, he embodied the values of scouting — leadership, service and responsibility.

“We are so proud of Hayes and his dedication,” said Wallace Elementary School Principal Angelo Cavallaro. “This batting cage is more than just a structure — it’s a symbol of community, generosity and leadership.”

Hayes’ message is displayed on a plaque near the cage, a simple but powerful reflection of his journey: “Scouting taught me to serve, baseball taught me to hustle — may this cage inspire both. In every swing and every step, may we remember to do a good turn daily, for in serving others, we serve Him.”

For Hayes, the project was never just about baseball. It was about giving back to the community that helped raise him and showing other young people that you don’t have to wait to make a difference.

Hayes expressed deep appreciation for everyone who contributed — whether by donating, helping with construction, or offering guidance.

“This project wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my community,” said Hayes. “Working together showed me how much we can accomplish when we all pitch in, and I hope this cage helps the kids enjoy the game as much as I have.”

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