Snow Hill Commissioners Hear Pleas for Historic Preservation and Board Diversity as Mayor Liles Prepares to Step Down
The Snow Hill Board of Commissioners held its regular meeting on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The board approved the agenda and consent agenda, adding a budget amendment to close out a parks grant. The meeting included public comments focused on historic preservation and board composition, departmental updates, financial reports, and an emotional farewell message from Mayor Dennis Liles as he prepares to step down after 14 years of service.
Public Comments Highlight Community Concerns
Joann Artis-Stevens of 712 West Harper Street opened the public comment period. She spoke on behalf of residents of the West Harper Street area, which they have worked for more than two decades to research and document as a historic district. She emphasized the significance of African American history and the extensive work already completed by the community.
“We hired the people to do the work. We spent probably 20 years gathering information, documenting the houses and the people who lived in them,” she said. She asked the board to consider the district as part of the upcoming downtown revitalization plans and stated she had documentation available to support the area’s historical status. Stevens also urged the board not to consider condemning properties in the neighborhood. “Please don’t. It is important history, not only for Greene County but for North Carolina as well.”
Doug Sliker of 206 Southeast Fourth Street followed. He commented on the recent election and the upcoming vacancy on the board once a sitting commissioner becomes mayor. Sliker expressed concern that candidate Steve Heath withdrew too late for his name to be removed from the ballot. “I like Steve and would have voted for him, but I knew he was not interested in serving. Still, 48 people voted for him.”
He suggested the votes may indicate public interest in broadening the board’s diversity. “Maybe 48 people wanted to see a man added to the board. Diversity is improving, but what we are missing is a male presence, especially with the mayor leaving.” Sliker encouraged the board to consider male applicants for the appointment and specifically named Dylan Potter and Courtney Harrell as strong possibilities. He also noted that if Harrell had received Heath’s votes, the outcome might have been different.
Town Manager Details Upcoming Events and Staff Milestones
Town Manager April Vinson reviewed upcoming events and staff progress. She distributed information about RAM Fest 2026, scheduled for the community wellness center complex. Last year’s event, organized by the county, was well-received. The packet included a list of activities and inflatable attractions. The town sponsored two inflatables last year, receiving recognition through signage. Vinson encouraged board members to review sponsorship options early, even though no action was required at the meeting.
She also announced that the first meeting of a new NC Commerce committee will take place on November 18 at 3:00 p.m. to discuss the downtown corridor revitalization. She described the project as extensive and long-term, and noted that the work done by the West Harper Street community could be incorporated into the broader revitalization effort.
Vinson highlighted recent staff achievements. Town Clerk Mary Cantey completed the required coursework at the School of Government and is now considered certified, with a few remaining steps to earn her CNC designation. Finance Director April Williams is progressing through finance courses in pursuit of certification. A maintenance employee recently took the water certification test and is waiting for the results, which may reduce the need for outside contractors. “This staff is eager to learn and take on any task. I am very proud of them,” Vinson said.
A budget amendment was introduced to close out the parks grant for the splash pad, which experienced cost overruns due to delays between the original COVID-era quote and completion. Donations and park bench sales helped offset some costs, but the town required $76,111 from the fund balance to finish the project. The amendment passed unanimously.
Police Department Thrives Under New Initiatives
With Police Chief Josh Smith attending mandatory certification training, Vinson delivered the police report. The department recorded and cleared six incidents in October. The Truck or Treat event was successful, with two of five vendors selling out. Officer Lancaster received praise from a citizen who observed her professionalism while supervising Snow Hill Primary students during a town tour.
Corporal Johnson continues to excel in both investigative work and in her role as a field training officer for Lancaster. Recruitment challenges persist, but community engagement programs are expanding. The Cops Companion program remains active, and planning continues for a new Police Explorer Program in partnership with the local Boy Scouts. The program aims to provide mentorship and introduce young people to careers in law enforcement.
Financial Picture Shows Steady Gains
Finance Officer April Williams reported positive trends in several accounts, including increases due to DEQ reimbursements for water and sewer asset inventory and assessment work. Ad valorem taxes rose slightly, ABC revenues were received, and water and sewer operations remain stable. Interest earnings decreased slightly due to lower rates.
Vinson provided additional information about the town’s lead service line project loan. The town was approved for $192,800 with 60 percent forgiveness and 40 percent loan, but only $19,650 was used. Because the state did not recalculate the loan based on the smaller amount spent, the town’s first annual payment of $38,500 completely cleared the debt. An $18,000 refund is expected. Vinson credited efficient contracting for reducing expenses.
At Mayor Liles’ request, Vinson reported the town’s fund balances. The general fund, including the money market account, totals approximately $3.9 million. Water and public works accounts total about $1.2 million.
Public Works Advances Multiple Projects
Public Works Director Travis Warters updated the board on ongoing infrastructure efforts. Bids for the next phase of the CDBG rehab project will be issued on December 2 and opened on December 16. Warters explained that street cleaning continues, but the vacuum trailer has wiring and plate issues that make it unsuitable for the task. He recommended that the board consider purchasing a dedicated street sweeper in the future.
Southern Corrosion will install Christmas lights on the water tower. The SL-134 sewer project, budgeted at $4.2 million, appears likely to finish under budget following review with the project engineer. Warters also plans to purchase a utility truck equipped with a crane for removing sewer pumps, which fail at least once a month and cost $2,600 per removal when outsourced.
Mayor Dennis Liles Bids Emotional Farewell After 14 Years
Mayor Dennis Liles stood to deliver his closing remarks and announced he would not attend the December swearing-in ceremony. He began by thanking his wife, Terry, for supporting him throughout his time in office. Liles offered a touching and honest reflection on their relationship, recalling how he often “bounces off the walls at home” and how she has been the one to calm him throughout the years. “She has been with me through my highs and lows. I would not be standing here without her.”
He thanked the commissioners and praised town staff for their dedication. He emphasized the strong financial position he is leaving for the incoming mayor. “This is the strongest we have ever been. The next mayor is stepping into the best shape this town has ever seen.”
Liles grew emotional as he spoke about his love for Snow Hill. “I love this town. I walk these streets every day. We stop and talk, and we look out for each other. That is what makes this place home.” He recognized familiar faces in the audience, including people he had known since high school, and mentioned how meaningful it has been to serve the town that raised him.
He concluded with a heartfelt message. “I hope I leave you with this. I love this town, I love every one of you, and I am proud to hand it over in better shape than I found it.”
With no further business, the meeting adjourned. The board will reconvene in December for the transition and swearing-in of new leadership.
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