Magnolia’s unified vision for the future

MAGNOLIA — Once seen as a small town struggling to find its footing, Magnolia is now confidently stepping into a new chapter of growth, unity, and community pride. During last week’s board meeting, town leaders reflected on a transformative journey — from a place Police Chief Jerry Wood described as “ a child left behind” to one that is now evolving and thriving.

“We are achieving great things. Y’all are responsible for that. Y’all have the vision and the insight. You want to see Magnolia improve,” said Wood. “Years ago, I didn’t feel like there was a spirit here among some of the folks that were in your positions, that really wanted to see that improvement, that progress in Magnolia. But now, I see it… We’re driving forward.”

A renewed spirit of teamwork and collaboration has emerged among the board, town officials, and the community. The shift is attributed to strong leadership, collaboration and community engagement.

“While you do have some naysayers out there, you’ve got a whole lot more of your citizens that are behind you, people throughout the county. I hear comments all the time about the great improvements in Magnolia and where we’re headed to,” Wood commented on the support from the community. He encouraged everyone to take pride in their contributions.

He also commended the teamwork of the board and town leaders. The sentiment was echoed by nearly every speaker.

The board recognized not only the achievements of town leaders but also highlighted outgoing NC Lead Fellow Marco Barrientos and the police, legal, and administrative staff for their roles in Magnolia’s progress. In addition to infrastructure and financial matters, there was a notable cultural shift toward pride and empowerment within the town.

“In the six months that I’ve been here, this town and the people involved here and all the citizens that I’ve come about have all kind of had the same vision, and I think we’re all moving in the right direction,” remarked Town Manager Charles Banks.

Financial stability was another focal point. The Capital Management Trust currently holds over half a million dollars, ensuring that daily operations are adequately funded.

“We are holding our own and we’re making some really good progress,” Banks noted, indicating that the budget process is nearing completion, allowing for a focus on new projects. Magnolia is effectively managing its resources and is on a steady path of progress.

Mayor Dawn Ward expressed gratitude to Barrientos, highlighting his contributions during his tenure. This meeting was Barrientos’ final official board meeting before his departure on June 26.

“He has been a huge asset,” said Ward. “The work that you have seen is just a small, small snippet of what he has done… We were very blessed whenever we got him as our NC lead fellow and he has truly become part of our Magnolia family.”

The meeting also addressed the importance of community engagement. Plans for a Community Resource Day are underway, along with the establishment of a Community Engagement Committee aimed at increasing resident involvement and awareness of local resources.

The Magnolia Community Engagement Committee will hold its first meeting on June 19 at 6 p.m. at the town hall. Residents interested in serving on the committee are encouraged to attend or contact Mayor Pro Tem Jeanine Cavanaugh.

Attendees were also reminded that the Community Resource Day is scheduled for June 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Magnolia park. In closing, Ward emphasized the collective effort required to maintain the day-to-day operations of the town, stating, “It takes all of us, and I appreciate everyone’s efforts.”

In other business

• A motion passed to officially close the undeveloped portion of Dogwood Drive in Magnolia. The property will revert to adjoining landowners.

• The board unanimously approved a recommendation from Banks to select McDavid & Associates as the lead engineering firm for several upcoming infrastructure projects based on qualifications and experience.

• A public hearing was scheduled for June 24 for the Land Use plan. A special meeting to vote on the plan will follow immediately after the hearing.

• The board held a public hearing to comply with North Carolina’s Chapter 160D updates. The updates were mostly technical and legal clarifications. No changes to zoning districts or land uses were implemented. The public had an opportunity to comment; no opposition was noted. A motion passed to approve the ordinance updates.

• Practical issues like overgrown grass near fire hydrants and broken stop signs are being addressed to ensure public safety and improve the town’s appearance.

• Commissioner Eric Graham honored local figures who embody Magnolia’s spirit of generosity and service, reinforcing a sense of community pride.

• Officials encouraged residents to attend meetings, stay informed, and participate in upcoming public hearings on the budget and land use plan.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of collective responsibility and optimism about Magnolia’s future.