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Faison mayor discusses town’s future and 250th anniversary plans

Faison mayor discusses town’s future and 250th anniversary plans

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From water and sewer upgrades to downtown development and community festivals, Faison Mayor Billy Ward says his next term will focus on keeping the town running strong while encouraging growth and civic pride. 

Looking ahead to your next term, what are your top three priorities for Faison and how does these address the concerns and needs you’re hearing from your residents?

To me, the top things I deal with is providing services to the town, water and sewer, garbage pickup and protection, and making sure the town’s in good shape, and that we provide the services that we get tax money for.

And of course, we would love to grow and bring new businesses in. We do have a lot of small businesses, and we do have one property owner that is trying to sell their land in the city limits, but they are peculiar about what goes in there. They want retail business to go in, they’re not going to just sell it to anybody that isn’t going to put a business there.

Those type priorities; always taking care of your citizens, providing services for the citizens, continue to make Faison grow, help Faison grow. Those are the main things to me.

Community engagement has been a recurring theme in your administration. How are residents being invited to participate in shaping the future of Faison?

We have a lot of things going on in town with our rec department and we’ve got festivals going on. We’ve got all kinds of committees and we do have right many people involved in those committees. We have the Faison Improvement Group, that’s called FIG, and we encourage people to come and be a part of it. If you don’t like what’s going on in Faison that’s a good way to get on a committee and help make it better. Actually get involved. We use social media to get the word out about things we’re doing and get the community involved. We’ll have our Market Day in March with a big parade, and then Faison, next year, on July 2nd, will be 250 years old.

On June 27th, from 5:00 to 9:00, out at the sports complex, where the old produce market used to be, we’re have a 250th celebration. We haven’t had fireworks in the town in probably 15 years or more, but we’ve got fireworks scheduled at the end of that festival. We’re going to have food trucks, vendors, things for the kids, amusement park type rides and then at 9:00 o’clock the fireworks. We’re asking the community to help us out, to come and participate and be a part of it.

We encourage people to come to meetings, see what’s going on. When we have a meeting, there may be one person sitting in the audience from the paper. People want to sit back and fuss and complain about things, but they don’t want to come and try and participate, and listen to what’s going on.

Another way with community engagement, our executive administrator, Jimmy Tyndall, does short videos. Right now, he’s doing a series on the water plant and how the town gets its water and what the water goes through, the process from coming out of the well and going into a person’s house, so people can see what happens. They’re all on Facebook. If you’re on Facebook, you can go to Town of Faison and watch these videos. Every time we have an event coming up, he puts it on Facebook. Anything we’ve got going on with the rec department, he makes a video. Anything that’s going on that needs to be addressed, any problems, any issues, he does a video and puts it on Facebook.

 

Aging infrastructure and limited resources pose challenges to almost all towns today. How is the town balancing immediate needs with long-term planning in wake of that?

As of right now, most of our water lines have already been replaced. We still have some, in some parts of town, that need to be replaced. Most of our sewer has been replaced, there are still a few spots in town. We know we’ve got a problem with part of our sewer right up under (Hwy) 403 going by the Post Office. We’re looking at long range plans trying to figure out what to do, how to get the money and how to address that situation and get it fixed. Right now everything’s holding steady, but we know it’s an issue and that’s part of that aging infrastructure, as well. It’s stuff that was either not done correctly when it was originally put in, and now we’re having problems with it. Overall, the town is probably in better shape than a lot of towns, but we still have some issues with that aging infrastructure.

We have been doing a lot over the years, even when I was a town commissioner, to get that stuff corrected and get it replaced.

Looking ahead to the next few years, what do you define as Faison’s biggest opportunity and biggest risk?

This 250th anniversary is going to be a big deal and a big opportunity for our town to get the word out about Faison, to come see Faison and see what it’s about. I’m hoping it will be a great turnout. It’s close to the 4th of July, they’re going to want to see fireworks. A lot of people won’t take into consideration that it’s 250 years, they’re just wanting to see the fireworks, but that’s an opportunity for the next seven or eight months for us to put Faison on the map and get people talking about Faison. There are people who were born and raised here and then left. Hopefully, they will come back and enjoy this day with all of us.

The biggest risk is people coming to town. We want people to bring their businesses here, we want people to try and open up small businesses, but that is a risk in itself in a small town, especially when you don’t have a grocery store or you don’t have a bank like we do. We encourage people and want people to do it, but because there are successful businesses in Faison. There are four Mexican restaurants in Faison. And we also have a food truck that comes in every day. Now that one of our big restaurants, that used to serve Monday through Friday, and have been for 30 years, she’s now closing on Mondays. The hardware store has been using their parking lot to get food trucks to come every Monday. So, for the past two Mondays, we’ve had two different kinds of food trucks come into town. That’s a risk for those people to come into a small town, but they’ve done well both Mondays and we’re hoping that’s going to continue.

We lost that restaurant on Mondays, but now we have another place for people to get something to eat, and a variety, too, because the first time it was a lobster food truck and the second time it was a barbeque food truck. It is a risk to bring a business to a small town, and if we had more people that would rent their buildings out, or try and sell their property, but at the same time there are not a lot of properties that can be sold. There’s not a lot of empty lots in Faison, the business district or in the residential district.

 

Reflecting on your time in office, what accomplishment are you most proud of?

As of right now, and I know it started right before I became mayor, but when I became mayor we just jumped on it really hard. We finished up the memorial, got the old gym taken down at the park, and we did the memorial for Dr. William Thornton. It’s sitting in a nice brick courtyard, with steps going down to it because the old gym that sat there had a basement. Years and years ago that’s where the school was and that’s where he went to school and started his education and went on to be North Carolina’s first chosen NASA astronaut. We invited people from government and schools, as well as people he went to school with, and his family and friends. We had a big day in his memory and we unveiled that monument. So far, that’s probably the biggest thing that has happened while I was in office. I can’t take full credit for it because it had been started three or four years ago, we just said it’s time to get it done.

Rep. Jimmy Dixon appointed to key NC House Redistricting Committee

Last week, Speaker Tim Moore appointed NC House Representative Jimmy Dixon to serve on the North Carolina House Select Committee on Redistricting, a key legislative body responsible for overseeing the state’s redistricting process for the 2025–2026 legislative session.

The 15-member committee, established on Oct. 14, will oversee the state’s redistricting efforts ahead of the 2026 election cycle and is tasked with evaluating, drafting, and recommending changes to North Carolina’s legislative and congressional district maps.

As a longtime legislator, Dixon is one of nine Republicans on the committee. “Duplin has a good seat at this decision-making table,” he told the Duplin Journal. The work of this committee will play a central role in shaping the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 elections.

The committee will submit a final report by May 1, 2026, and has the authority to propose new legislative maps and engage consultants to support its work.

Housing rehab grant moves forward

KENANSVILLE — During the October meeting of the Duplin County Board of Commissioners, leaders discussed a proposal for a federal grant aimed at housing improvements, received a legislative update from Representative Jimmy Dixon, and heard public concerns about transparency.

Josh Outlaw from The Adams Company conducted the second of two required hearings to formally announce the county’s intent to apply for a Community Development Block Grant under the Neighborhood Revitalization category. The county is seeking the maximum amount of $950,000 in federal grant funds to support housing-related improvements. The proposed project involves the demolition and reconstruction of four homes located at the following addresses: 1299 Botanicus Road in Mount Olive, 401 North Monk Street in Magnolia, 120 Cedar Lane in Rose Hill, and 1637 Highway 24/50 in Warsaw.

“We will also include three alternates, which will just be rehabilitations in case someone isn’t eligible,” explained Outlaw. These alternate properties are located at 114 Moore Street in Teachey, 703 Penny Branch Road in Warsaw, and 1061 Pastor Branch Road in Rose Hill. The project’s total budget will consist of $855,000 for housing and $95,000 for grant administration.

Because of funding limitations, only four homes could be selected. Outlaw noted that community participation has improved, with more residents becoming aware of and responsive to available grant opportunities.

County officials also discussed the refinancing of the 2016 Limited Obligation Bonds, which could result in an estimated $1.5 million in savings over the life of the debt. Proposals were sent to lending institutions in late September, and a final lender selection is expected by Nov. 3, with formal approval of financing documents anticipated at the Dec. 1 Board of Commissioners meeting.

North Carolina House Representative Jimmy Dixon addressed the Duplin County Board of Commissioners to share updates on the state budget, the Farm Act, and to express gratitude for the board’s service. Reflecting on his own transformation — from criticizing local leaders to becoming a supporter — he emphasized the importance of building up rather than tearing down public institutions.

Dixon highlighted the productive relationship between the county and state leadership, crediting Duplin’s governance for helping secure major funding. Over the past three budget cycles, he and Senator Brent Jackson were able to direct $88 million in state funding to Duplin County.

On the budget front, Dixon warned that continued reliance on a permanent continuation budget — while preventing shutdowns — has created complacency. He shared a major sticking point in current negotiations between the House and Senate involves income tax rate “triggers.” The House wants to adjust them to reflect inflation and prevent future deficits, while the Senate sees that move as a tax increase. Dixon explained that without a change, the state could face a $3–5 billion shortfall within three years.

Finally, Dixon provided insight into delays in passing the 2025 Farm Act. Disagreements between the House and Senate over raw milk sales, present use value definitions, and herbicide labeling have stalled progress. He emphasized the importance of provisions like protecting crop theft penalties, composting for equine mortality, and school absence flexibility for equestrian students. He then took questions from the public.

Jessica Thomas, a Sarecta resident and leader of the Duplin County Coalition for Accountability and Transparency, raised concerns about the handling of the $1.5 million allocated last year for clearing and snagging the Northeast Cape Fear River. She questioned why the funds appeared to be directed only to the river’s first section and expressed alarm that Alliance Integrated Solutions may have bypassed the county’s standard bidding process, which typically involves oversight from the Soil and Water Board and the Board of Commissioners.

“That money is eligible for anything from Chinquapin to the ocean,” said Dixon, acknowledging the project; however, he did not directly address the other concerns.

On broader state issues, Dixon stressed the urgent need for a statewide employment strategy, highlighting the significant shift in the job market over the past 15 years. Previously secure public sector jobs now face intense competition from private employers for skilled workers. He also raised concerns about over 65% of the General Assembly’s non-partisan research staff nearing retirement within seven years, which he believes poses a challenge for long-term policy development.

Additionally, he addressed a rumor about Senate Bill 50, which would allow universal concealed carry without training for those as young as 18.

The county’s personnel policy review process continues, with plans to involve larger working groups, including legal input, before a final version is presented to the board for review and approval.

Transparency push gains momentum after Duplin County manager resigns

Transparency push gains momentum after Duplin County manager resigns

KENANSVILLE — Amid growing concerns over transparency and financial oversight in Duplin County government, Jessica Thomas, a Sarecta resident and leader of the Duplin County Coalition for Accountability and Transparency, has become a driving force for reform filing more than 30 public records requests and conducting outreach to state and federal agencies.

Last week, Thomas met with county administration and officials to discuss concerns about public records requests that have received pushback or remain outstanding.

“I’ve circulated this county employee survey that people are filling out anonymously. And some things have come up that are very concerning,” said Thomas, who has taken the initiative to investigate and consolidate findings to present to the county commissioners.

This comes in the wake of the abrupt resignation of former county manager Bryan Miller, who, as of press time, has not responded to Duplin Journal’s request for comment.

“I think the straw that broke the camel’s back here was that the county had $273,000 worth of work done that was not properly bid out,” said Thomas. “And it was not completed by a general contractor.”

According to Thomas, the projects were awarded without undergoing the required bidding process. While county officials claimed the projects began under the $30,000 threshold, no documentation was provided to show how the projects were approved, whether cost increases occurred, or if proper change orders were issued. Documents shared with Duplin Journal show at least four projects exceed the limit that triggers informal bidding and written documentation under N.C. General Statute 143-131.

Thomas told Duplin Journal that communication has improved and that county leadership has begun actively brainstorming solutions to enhance transparency and public trust.

“It’s clear that they want to move forward,” said Thomas.

She noted that the coalition had submitted a list of recommendations to both the commissioners and administrative staff and expressed optimism about the shared commitment to reform. She described the recent efforts as a positive turning point. While she plans to continue her advocacy and oversight work, she characterized the current progress as a step toward resolution.

According to Thomas, officials told her they were limited in what they could discuss due to public records laws, but reiterated that her requests would be handled according to statute.

Among the issues Thomas has documented is the disbanding of the Tourism Development Authority and the termination of staff members who were allegedly asked to sign severance agreements that appeared to function as nondisclosure agreements issued by the county’s human resources department at the direction of Miller.

Jessica Thomas (center) was honored at the NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet last Saturday and presented with the Trailblazer of Freedom Award. Thomas is pictured with Sharvon Smith (left), Candace Williams (back) and Christa Parker (right). Courtesy Bill Thomas

In addition to her local advocacy, Thomas has been in contact with state and federal authorities, including the State Auditor’s Office, the Department of Justice, and the State Bureau of Investigation, regarding financial oversight in Duplin County. She said investigators encouraged her to continue gathering information and to submit findings to District Attorney Ernie Lee.

Following Miller’s resignation, Thomas reports that more individuals have come forward with information.

“We are the bosses,” said Thomas. “We don’t have cannons and muskets like they did 250 years ago, but we do have knowledge and we have our words and they carry weight.”

Last Saturday, the NAACP recognized Thomas’s efforts with the Trailblazer of Freedom Award at its annual Freedom Fund Banquet.

Commissioner Ethylen Powell talks growth, community, and leadership

Commissioner Ethylen Powell talks growth, community, and leadership

Incumbent Ethylen Powell has spent more than a decade helping guide the growth of Teachey, a town she’s called home for over 50 years. First appointed to the board of commissioners in 2009, Powell’s journey into public service began with a phone call—and a desire to stay involved in the community she loves. Since then, she’s become a steady voice in local government, championing improvements from park facilities to public services, and earning the role of mayor pro tem multiple times by unanimous vote.

Can you tell us about your journey as a commissioner with the town of Teachey? How long have you been commissioner and what motivated you to enter politics?

I have served on the board since 2009. I was invited by a good standing citizen of the Town of Teachey. Mrs. Mirian Tucker called me and asked if I would serve on the board due to a fellow board member moving out of our growing town. I didn’t know what to expect but soon learned a lot and became very interested, especially since I’ve always enjoyed being a part of community events. I always served in different capacities when my children were in school. I served as PTA President, and in other capacities in the system when I could. I discovered that being a part of decision making and growth for our small town was in my blood, so I have continued to be part of the decision making for our town. The commissioners were so impressed that they have nominated me for mayor Pro-Tem & voted yes by unanimous vote, several times. 

Looking back on your time in public office, what accomplishment are you most proud of — and how has it tangibly benefited the community?

I am most proud of our park, which includes playground equipment for the children and a walking trail for everyone to enjoy. We have bathrooms in our park and picnic tables. We have added to our town hall in which we hope in the future we can hire a law enforcement officer. We have and are seeing new homes being built in our town. This shows the attraction of our growing town. I have seen a new fire department and donations from our citizens helping to keep it going. We also have added a water clerk and assistant maintenance person. I have also seen sewer and trash pickup added to our down. When my husband and I moved here over 50 years ago, we had to either wash clothes or take a shower. This would sometimes fill up the septic tank, and we had to call for help and that cost was around $150. We also had to pay the county $90 a year and haul our trash to a small landfill past the Duff Creek community. We started celebrating Easter in the park and hosting our annual Christmas tree lighting. Last year we purchased a very beautiful tree that will shine beautifully for years to come. 

How will you ensure all voices, including those in outlying or underserved areas, are heard and represented in town decisions?

All citizens are always invited to every town meeting and there is an open-door policy for our mayor.

In your opinion, what is the most pressing challenge Teachey faces right now?

The most pressing thing right now is the tax base, and we are working on that. 

What are your top three priorities, and how do they align with residents’ concerns?

To ensure the smooth transition of the new growth in town, listen to the concerns of citizens, and continue to serve honestly. 

What is your take on livestreaming and recording all public meetings? How important is it to you that budget documents are easily accessible for residents?

Our administration does a very good job of recording minutes, and a copy of the budget is available for all citizens.

How have you addressed the community’s concerns about infrastructure and public services during your term?

Our monthly meetings are open to the public, and residents can have a copy of the minutes. It is and always has been an open-door policy whether in person or by phone if any citizens need help.

What steps have you taken to increase transparency and resident engagement in decision-making?

All citizens are always invited to the public meetings, and all concerns of our citizens are addressed if brought to the mayor or board.

What is the most challenging part of your job that you wish residents would understand?

No one gets what they want all the time. Everyone must understand that running a town is similar to running your home or a business; you must always budget for emergencies and set priorities in order. 

If given $1 million for Teachey, where would you allocate the funds and why?

You must always have a reserve to keep the town running. Repairs for roads, sewer stations, and donations to the fire department are very important parts of every town.

Herring discusses importance of diverse representation, smart growth

Herring discusses importance of diverse representation, smart growth

Candidate Q&A series | Wallace Town Council
Incumbent Tasha Herring

Appointed to the Wallace Town Council in 2023, Tasha Herring stepped into public service with a mission to help shape the town’s future. In this Q&A, Herring reflects on her journey into local government, the importance of diversity on the council, and how she plans to support Wallace’s growth while keeping residents engaged and informed.

Can you share your journey as a council member with the town of Wallace? What motivated you to enter politics, and what accomplishment are you most proud of during your time in service? 

My political journey officially began in March 2023. Mayor Jason Wells nominated me and the Wallace Town Council agreed for me to fill a seat on the council after the unexpected death of our beloved Wanetta Carlton. After multiple conversations with Wanetta’s sister, Darlene Leysath, I found that Wanetta had a heart that connected to the Town of Wallace. At that moment I knew that I had to accept the challenge and continue what she started. 

I knew I could never be who she was so I decided to start a campaign in her honor. 

The Steps of Progress will be a bricked walkway at Dobbins Park. Focusing on the growth and progression of the community where we were raised, the school we attended and the lessons learned along the way. 

With Wallace experiencing such rapid growth in both residential and commercial sectors, how will you ensure infrastructure keeps pace? In your opinion, what is the most pressing challenge we face right now? 

By constantly staying in touch with the citizens, and listening to their wants. One of the great things I love about our council is the diversity of members. Our board is not one sided. As our community grows, the diversity of our board keeps a better understanding. Diversity means we are able to keep our infrastructure projects geared to our community needs. One of the most pressing challenges we are facing right now is keeping up with the community needs and understanding. 

Growth often brings funding challenges. How do you plan to fund growth-related infrastructure without placing an unfair burden on taxpayers? 

I believe we should explore every possible avenue to seek funding for upcoming projects. Some of these examples could include fund raisers, private donations and grant options 

What is your take on livestreaming and recording all public meetings? How important is it to you that budget documents are easily accessible for our residents? 

Transparency brings trust, When the public sees and hears open conversations and planning from the council, it reduces questions and fear, 

I am in favor of livestreaming and recording all public meetings. Even though we are experiencing growth, we have citizens who are not able to meet in person for a number of reasons. Also, livestreaming all public meetings would allow transparency. 

How do you ensure residents are involved in major decisions? 

I have suggested that recorded messages be generated and dispersed by phone. Mailings, including churches and local civic groups. 

When it comes to budget allocation, how will you balance spending between essential services like fire protection and sewer maintenance, versus quality-of-life enhancements such as parks and bike lanes? 

All departments are equally important. By collaborating with my fellow board members, department directors and stakeholders, we will collectively decide on the most pressing options first and move forward to other items of interest as funding allows.

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