Jones County commissioners hear updates on veterans programs, soil and water conservation, and opioid response
TRENTON — The Jones County Board of Commissioners met Monday night for its regular session, covering a full agenda that included presentations on regional development, veterans services, and ongoing public health initiatives.
Bianca Shoneman, vice president of community development for the NC East Alliance, introduced the county to the organization’s 10-10-15 membership program, which offers $15,000 in annual microgrants and access to data tools for a $920 investment based on population. The program focuses on community and economic development, workforce growth, and marketing eastern North Carolina as a unified region.
Veterans Services Officer Nicole Jenkins highlighted local initiatives honoring military service, including the county’s annual Veterans Day luncheon on Nov. 8 and the Operation Green Light campaign. Jenkins introduced Robert Elliott, founder of the Veterans Farm of North Carolina, who spoke about his program helping veterans transition from military life to agriculture through a six-month training model that emphasizes both farming and mental health support.
The board also heard from Blair King, natural resource conservationist for Jones County Soil and Water, who detailed cost-share and conservation programs, including recent watershed and beaver management projects. King reported that Jones County ranked among the top four in its region for total cost-share funds spent this year.
Elections Director Jessica Taylor provided filing and election updates, noting that Jones County has no 2025 municipal elections. The next election will be the March 2026 primary, with candidate filing set for Dec. 1–19.
Social Services Director Chris Meadows announced that November is both Family Caregiver Month and National Adoption Month, recognizing those who care for family members and encouraging residents to consider fostering or adopting children. Meadows also updated the board on the ongoing federal government shutdown’s effects on SNAP benefits, noting the state is working to maintain support through contingency funds.
In new business, commissioners approved reallocating $26,000 for the Sheriff’s Office to replace aging Glock service weapons amid reported supply concerns. The board also approved several health department items, including adoption of the 2024–27 Community Health Improvement Plan and the Jones County Opioid Strategic Plan, which focuses on treatment coordination, peer support, and post-overdose response efforts in partnership with Carolina East.
Health Director Adrian Smith also presented a new memorandum of agreement between the county, Integrated Care of Greater Hickory, and the Sheriff’s Office to expand behavioral health and medication-assisted treatment services in the detention center. Smith added that the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program remains funded through Nov. 30 despite the federal shutdown.
Tax Administrator Fleming Jeffress reported 22.98 percent of the current year’s levy collected as of Oct. 31 and received board approval to sell two county-owned parcels through GovDeals. Commissioners also approved a Section 147(f) agreement for the Pollocksville Volunteer Fire Department to finance a new pumper truck and authorized a $61,300 design contract with The Walker Group for the new public works complex.
County Manager Kyle Smith announced that the next work session will be held Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. at 2314 Wyse Fork Road, dedicated to the county’s final flood study review. He also highlighted the recent ribbon cuttings for the new Pollocksville EMS Station 2 and the renovated Emergency Operations Center, along with the launch of a new quick-response paramedic vehicle.
The meeting concluded with commissioner comments emphasizing public transparency and access to meeting audio and video, as well as reminders about free digital skills classes offered through East Carolina University partners.
The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. at the Jones County Agricultural Building in Trenton.
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