Lenoir commissioners launch EMS podcast, welcome new operations chief and hire outside finance reviewers
Lenoir County commissioners on Monday approved a contract for outside financial consulting, welcomed a new EMS operations manager, and heard plans for a county podcast aimed at demystifying emergency services.
Emergency Services Director Norman Bryson told the board his team will debut “Red Lights and Real Talk” this month on Spotify and YouTube. Episodes will run 20 to 40 minutes and feature behind-the-scenes looks at 911 operations, staff profiles, and preparedness tips. Bryson said the department purchased about $600 in equipment and expects strong community engagement through accessible, credible content.
Bryson also introduced EMS Operations Manager Mark Casey, who joined the county last week after 17 years in fire and EMS, administrative roles, and teaching at James Sprunt Community College. Casey said he is honored to serve and eager to work with the team to advance service quality.
The board unanimously authorized a contract not to exceed $100,000 with GWI Tax and Accounting for a comprehensive review of county financial operations. County Manager Michael James said the firm’s project leads include former Wilmington CFO Deborah Mack and former N.C. State Auditor Beth Wood. He said the goal is to strengthen processes and ensure the finance department is positioned to meet the county’s needs over the next decade.
Commissioners also moved $4,536,107 above the 20 percent fund balance threshold into the county’s capital projects fund, following a policy the board adopted in June 2024.
Commissioner updates touched on several local efforts. Keith King promoted a Fairfield Park fundraiser golf tournament and commended the Lenoir County Fair for clean grounds and newer rides. Preston Harris noted a new member on the DSS Board, ongoing city-county collaboration meetings with La Grange and Pink Hill, and encouraged residents to get current COVID and flu shots. Chair Linda Rouse Sutton praised the recent World War II 80th-anniversary commemoration, which included a courthouse ceremony, bus tour and USO-style dance.
In a personal announcement during board comments, Vice Chair Eric Rouse said he will not seek another term as county commissioner and plans to run for North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District.
The board proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, recognizing SAFE in Lenoir County’s services and noting Kinston’s purple tree lights on Queen Street in honor of victims and survivors. The board also recognized the Sept. 27 local observance marking 80 years since the end of World War II, honoring 3,821 county residents who served and 122 who died.
Actions taken
Approved a contract up to $100,000 with GWI Tax and Accounting for a comprehensive review of county financial operations.
Transferred $4,536,107 above the 20 percent fund balance threshold into the capital projects fund.
Introduced Mark Casey as EMS operations manager.
Issued a proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Noted prior proclamation and local events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
Advanced appointments: first reading for the Board of Health and second readings for the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council.
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