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Leading with dedication, purpose

Leading with dedication, purpose

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Each week, Duplin Journal highlights a community member whose hard work and dedication represent the spirit of Duplin County. This week, Duplin Journal invited Angela Smith, Rose Hill town administrator and finance officer, for a Q&A session.

Smith began her career with the town of Rose Hill in 2001 as an administrative assistant and utility clerk. Eager to hone her skills and contribute to her community, she quickly immersed herself in municipal operations and pursued specialized courses offered by the School of Government and the North Carolina League of Municipalities (NCLM).

Her career took off as she advanced through the ranks, taking on senior roles that allowed her to directly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of the town’s financial operations. Nearly 24 years later, she continues to make an impact in local government.

As the town administrator and finance officer, Smith’s role is essential in the management, operation, and financial oversight of the town of Rose Hill. Her journey is living proof of how dedication, hard work, and perseverance can lead to great achievements.

In this Q&A, Smith shares insights into her journey in public service, her love for Duplin’s tight-knit communities, and the special things that make it a special place to live and work.

What inspired you to pursue a career in local government?

In 2001, after my youngest daughter was born, I knew it was time for me to return to work. A friend of mine informed me of a job opening at the Town of Rose Hill in the office. I applied, and here I am, almost 24 years later.

Can you share about your journey to becoming the town administrator and finance officer for Rose Hill?

I began in September of 2001 as an administrative assistant and utility clerk. Over the years, I took it upon myself to pay attention and observe and take advantage of educational opportunities to learn more about local government operations. I had experience in accounting already, but I did build on that with Rose Hill. I learned finance and budgeting. Not only hands-on, which is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to learn anything, but I did take courses over the years that the School of Government or NCLM would offer. I worked my way up from administrative assistant. Deputy tax collector and accounts payable were added to my experience. I was eventually promoted to accounting operations manager/town clerk and deputy finance officer. I received my clerk’s certification through the School of Government during that time. I remained in that position for over three years; then, the town administrator position became open when our former administrator, John Bauer, retired — who, by the way, was a wonderful mentor. I put my name in the hat. The board had enough faith in me to give me the opportunity. That was the latter part of 2022.

What projects are you currently working on, or what future initiatives are you excited about?

The town has several projects going on: Stormwater, lead line replacement, AIA study, fifth-year resurfacing, and CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization. All of these are grants the town currently has open. Not that stormwater isn’t super exciting (chuckle), but my favorite is the Neighborhood Revitalization Grant we received. This is serving low-income property owners in town that need help either restoring what they have or rebuilding what is not restorable and they can’t afford to do it themselves. We can’t help all that applied, but we can at least help four. This is what it is about — the citizens. I can also see the town applying for another in three years. Hopefully, we can help at least four more. On a side note, the board has been excellent to work with. Voters should be proud that this group of six people they chose to make important decisions for and represent the town are doing so with them in mind.

What advice would you give young women who aspire to lead in government or other career fields?

Be yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself, either. Never say you can’t do anything. I am proof that hard work, motivation and the willingness to ask questions can move mountains. Dabble a little faith in there and you will succeed.

What role do residents and community organizations play in shaping the economic future of Rose Hill?

Their roles are essential. Providing a supportive environment for local businesses is crucial for businesses to thrive and boost the local economy. Both residents and community organizations do this. Residents that participate in community development can help improve infrastructure and create opportunities. Community organizations can help attract investment in the community by promoting our area’s strengths. They work hand-in-hand to promote Rose Hill so people can see it is a great place to live and work, yet still has that “hometown” feel.

Managing the town’s finances is a significant responsibility. Considering the economic challenges that many small towns face, what strategies do you employ to ensure that Rose Hill remains financially sustainable?

Keep track of investments. Follow policy and procedure for obligating and purchasing. Consistently monitoring revenue coming in versus expenses going out. Consistent routine equipment maintenance. Monitor utility rates to make sure the town is bringing in the revenue to accommodate current and future capital expenditures. Keep the property tax rate sustainable for the town’s general fund without it being too much of a burden on the taxpayer. There are so many different things that help keep the town economically stable. One of the most important is good internal control. Without those checks and balances in place it leaves the town vulnerable.

What do you do in your spare time?

Spend time with my grandchildren and my family. There is no better way to spend my time.

What was the last book you read?

The last book I finished was The Shack by William Young. Although it is taking me longer than it should, I am currently reading The Rising by Tim Lahaye/Jerry Jenkins.

Where’s your favorite place to eat in Duplin County?

I honestly do not have a favorite. But I am partial to the Rose Hill Restaurant. It is one of the few places locally to get good Southern comfort food.

What, in your opinion, is the best thing about Duplin County?

The people. We still have tight-knit communities. That is something that is becoming non-existent. Thank God Duplin County still has it.

Duplin trial ends with life sentence in long-running rape investigation

A high-profile rape trial came to an end last week as Delmus Foss Jr., 67, of Kenansville was sentenced to life in prison. The sentencing took place in Duplin County Superior Court after Foss Jr., plead guilty to rape charges dating back to 1977 and 1984, and two counts of indecent liberties with a child from 2020.

According to the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office, as the trial unfolded on its second day with district attorneys from the Fifth Prosecutorial District presenting evidence, Foss’ defense attorney approached the prosecution, expressing that Foss wanted to end the trial and plead guilty.

The investigation began in November 2020, in Beulaville when Foss’ granddaughter, 6, reported Foss’ improper sexual conduct. According to law enforcement, during the investigation it was also discovered that similar activity took place to the victim’s sister, another juvenile, age 12. Foss was arrested in 2021 and charged with two counts of indecent liberties with a child.

The Sheriff’s Office reported that when the news of Foss’ arrest became public, two more victims came forward. The third victim was Foss’ cousin, a 54-year-old woman, who alleged she had been repeatedly raped by Foss during her childhood. Authorities later determined the rape occurred in the summer of 1977.

The DAs announcement stated that the fourth rape victim was Foss’ niece, a 44-year-old woman who also came forward after the initial investigation came to light. According to law enforcement it was determined that the woman was raped in December 1984. The victims were 8 and 11 years old at the time of the offenses. Foss was arrested on May 2021 and charged with second degree forcible rape for the offense committed in 1977, and first degree forcible rape for the offense committed in 1984.

District attorney Ernie Lee shared in a press release that the case was particularly challenging due to its complexity and the need for extensive investigation uncovering the offenses dating back to 1977 and 1984.

“The investigation conducted by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office included multiple interviews of victims, daycare workers, and family members of the victims as well as travelling to various locations where the sexual assaults occurred. The juvenile victims were interviewed, examined and evaluated by the Child Advocacy Center in Greenville,” stated Lee, adding that his office dedicated many hours to preparing the case.

“This office is grateful for victims who come forward and report these crimes, even after years of suffering from such violent acts in order to seek justice for themselves and others, including family members. This was an effort made by all those involved, Sheriff Stratton Stokes and the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office who conducted the investigation, the courageous juvenile victims who initiated the investigation as well as the brave adult women who ensured that Foss Jr. faced the consequences of his actions from as long as 48 years ago,” Lee wrote.

Foss was sentenced to life in prison for the rape committed in 1984, an additional sentence of 20 to 50 years for the rape committed in 1977 and two consecutive sentences of 19 to 32 months for the offenses committed in 2020. He was placed on the sex offender registry and is currently in custody of the North Carolina Department of Corrections.

Proposed travel trailer campground clears zoning hurdles

WARSAW — Wheels are in motion to develop a travel trailer campground in Warsaw. During a recent public hearing, the Warsaw Town Board approved a conditional rezoning of a parcel on Pete Quinn Road, which is located on the edge of Warsaw’s extraterritorial jurisdiction.

Austin Brinkley with Insight Planning & Development presented an overview of the proposed Smith Family Campground project, which would be developed on 117 acres in four phases.

The project will ultimately create a facility with 625 units, offering recreational and tourism opportunities for Warsaw.

“This proposal will contribute toward recreation and tourism in Warsaw and should have an overall positive effect on the economy. And it would provide a benefit both to the county and region as well through the provision of facilities for outdoor enthusiasts, tourists, families, and travelers,” he added.

Brinkley explained that the campground will be family-oriented and open year-round from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., although hours may vary by season. There will be a full-time on-site manager available, and the campground is expected to employ 30 people when fully operational. The campground is affiliated with the Jellystone Group.

“The first phase is proposing 100 units and then 175 RVs in phases two, three and four,” Brinkley explained. “The campground is proposing to provide a lot of amenities, such as the clubhouse, the pool, cabanas at the pool area, and some recreation areas.”

Phillip Smith from Smith Family Campground stated that any extended stays will be limited to six months, with only 50% of the park designated for this purpose.

“Solid waste is going to be contracted for collection with one of the landfills within the town or county. Water is going to be extended and either provided by the county or Warsaw at the developer’s expense, so the developer is aware that they will be responsible for paying for any kind of waterline extension to the property,” Brinkley explained.

He mentioned that all parking areas and vehicle surfaces will have a minimum gravel base and will be subject to a regular maintenance schedule. Brinkley also noted that emergency services will have full access to the campground to address any public safety concerns.

The board discussed the infrastructure needs, noting that the property is currently outside of Warsaw’s sewer system. Any necessary water infrastructure may require annexation into the town. Commissioner Al Searles emphasized the importance of ensuring clarity on site-specific items, such as solid waste and water supply, to be included in the conditions to avoid future confusion. The board agreed that these specifics should be added to the agreement.

Faison celebrates agricultural roots at annual Farmers’ Day Parade

Faison celebrates agricultural roots at annual Farmers’ Day Parade

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Photo by Ena Sellers / Duplin Journal

Hundreds gathered along West Main Street in Faison last Saturday for the town’s annual Farmers’ Day Parade, a beloved tradition that honors Faison’s agricultural roots and unites the community.

The parade celebrated the town’s agricultural heritage with vibrant displays, embodying the charm of small-town life. The festive atmosphere drew cheerful participants and excited children who eagerly rushed to catch candy tossed from tractors, trucks, and decorated cars as they paraded through the streets.

Visit Duplin Journal’s Facebook page to view the photo gallery.

Photo by Ena Sellers / Duplin Journal
Photo by Ena Sellers / Duplin Journal
Passion for service, dedication to community

Passion for service, dedication to community

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Meet Register of Deeds Anita Savage

Each week, Duplin Journal highlights a community member whose hard work and dedication represent the spirit of Duplin County. This week, Duplin Journal invited Register of Deeds Anita Savage for a Q&A session.

As the custodian of all real property records, Savage’s role is integral to the operation of local government ensuring that documents are accurately recorded, preserved, and accessible to the public. A native of Warsaw, she takes great pride in supporting the community.

Anita Savage has been serving with the Register of Deeds office for more than two decades. She was elected Register of Deeds in 2020, becoming the first African-American woman elected to this position. She was reelected in 2024. Courtesy Photo

Her leadership fosters collaboration with other key departments, ensuring that all property deeds meet legal standards and are properly verified. Her work supports the transparency, legal integrity, and security of property transactions, which are vital for economic development and individual property rights.

In this Q&A, Savage shares insights into her journey in public service as she became the first African-American woman elected to the Register of Deeds office. She is now serving her second term.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the Register of Deeds office?

The satisfaction of being able to assist citizens with vital records and recording of real property documents. I take pride in providing efficient customer service while helping citizens.

Can you tell us more about your journey from being hired as a deputy in 2003 to being elected Register of Deeds, now serving a second term?

I was hired in January of 2003 as a Deputy Register of Deeds. Attended the Basic School for Registers of Deeds through UNC School of Government in November 2003. I received my certification as a Certified Deputy Register of Deeds in 2007. I was promoted to assistant Register of Deeds in 2016. In November 2020, I was elected to the Duplin County Register of Deeds; it was a historic moment becoming the first African American elected to this position.  I was elected by the citizens of Duplin County to serve a second term as Register of Deeds in November 2024.

What advice would you give young women who aspire to lead in government or other fields?

The advice I would give to young women who aspire to a career in any field is those core values my parents taught me. I was taught to be brave, stay focused on my dreams, remain true to myself, and to be diligent on my journey.

What role does the Register of Deeds play in economic development or local real estate transactions as the official custodian of important property records?

The Register of Deeds office is the recorder of real property records. The Register of Deeds is the custodian and manager of those records here in Duplin County. Once a document is recorded and scanned into the Register of Deeds recording system, the document is accessible immediately in the office and online at the Register of Deeds website duplinrod.com.

How does the Register of Deeds office collaborate with other local government agencies or the court system to ensure the accuracy of documents?

The Register of Deeds office collaborates mostly with the Duplin County Tax Department. Prior to recording a deed in the Register of Deeds office, the deed has to go to the tax office. There are components that the Register of Deeds office must check for prior to recording: originality of the document, that the document meets North Carolina’s recording standards and notary verification. The accuracy of the document is on the person who drafted/prepared the document.

Looking ahead, are there any initiatives or new technology you would like to see implemented in your office or the services you provide?

Starting Monday, March 10, the Register of Deeds office began e-recording maps. This is a huge accomplishment for the Duplin County Register of Deeds. The office will begin accepting both 18×24 and 24×36 size maps/plats for recording.

What do you do in your spare time?

I enjoy spending my spare time traveling with my family and shopping.

What was the last book you read?

North Carolina Guidebook For Registers of Deeds by Charles Szypszak is a resource book that you will often find me reading.

Where’s your favorite place to eat in Duplin County?

The Filing Station of Kenansville. The food is delicious, and the service is always great!  You will always see someone you know there, which makes for good conversation.

What, in your opinion, is the best thing about Duplin County?

Southern hospitality. It’s such a great place to live. The people here are always willing to help one another.

Preventative measures ramp up in Duplin amid TB rise

KENANSVILLE — Last week, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services told Duplin Journal that they have seen an increase in Tuberculosis (TB) cases, with 21 active TB cases reported in the state so far this year. In 2024, the total number was 249, marking the state’s highest number of TB cases since 2010.

This rise in cases prompted health agencies to implement preventative measures. In Duplin County, the health department’s epidemiology team expanded their efforts beyond county lines, collaborating with two neighboring counties to test individuals. A total of 75 individuals were tested. “Nine tested positive for latent TB,” shared Tracey Simmons-Kornegay, the health director, during a recent departmental update at the Consolidated Human Services monthly meeting. Latent TB means that these individuals carry the TB bacteria but are not contagious and do not exhibit active symptoms of the disease.

These individuals are currently undergoing a four-month treatment. Simmons-Kornegay noted, adding that the expectation is for the treatment to be completed within the next month. This treatment is crucial in preventing latent TB from progressing to active TB. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the risk of developing active TB depends on several factors, including a person’s immune system, certain chronic conditions, and whether they have been re-exposed to TB.

The health director emphasized that much of this work begins with identifying a positive case, followed by contact tracing—similar to COVID-19 protocols—which was essential for identifying those at risk of exposure.

Simmons-Kornegay also provided an update on the flu in North Carolina, which, at the time of the meeting, was experiencing “the highest flu rate in the last 15 years,” with 311 deaths since September 2024. Of those, 309 were adults, and two were teenagers aged 15 to 17.

“Duplin County thus far has had six deaths — four females and two males. All were “Caucasian and 65 years and older,” said Simmons-Kornegay, adding that two of these seniors died in a care facility.

COVID-19 positivity rates currently stand at 4.2% with a trend around 4-5%, indicated the health director, adding that residents can pick up free at-home test kits at the health department. These kits are also available at various locations throughout the county, including the library and nutrition sites.

In other updates, Simmons-Kornegay discussed the Health Department’s budget which  operates under three distinct budget cycles.

The Health Department is also preparing for its accreditation cycle, which was extended to six years due to COVID-19. “Our current accreditation expires on May 8, 2026,” Simmons-Kornegay explained. Key deadlines include the submission of accreditation documents by Nov. 1, and a site visit scheduled for the winter of 2026.

Annie Murrell, the social services director, reported that last month the state launched the Odyssey Case Management System. Odyssey is a centralized, web-based, integrated system that allows caseworkers, courts, and other entities involved in child welfare to access a shared platform enhancing efficiency.

Murrell’s department will implement the Path N.C. for Child Welfare framework in June. This framework streamlines intake procedures, prioritizes urgent cases, and provides clearer assessment guidelines, ensuring child welfare professionals have the necessary tools and support to make the best decisions for children’s safety and well-being.

The board voted to hold the first four meetings of the Consolidated Human Services Board on a monthly basis, with subsequent meetings occurring quarterly. The next meeting is set for April 7 at 5:30 p.m.

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