TRENTON — The Jones County Board of Commissioners met Sept. 8 to review a wide-ranging agenda that included a detailed flood study presentation, a jail meals contract, opioid settlement projects, and updates on county programs.
Flood study presentation
Jonathan Hinkle of Bolton & Menk presented the county’s ongoing flood study, outlining causes of Trent River flooding and possible mitigation strategies, including dredging, clearing debris, wetland restoration, road elevation and water retention on farm and timber lands.
Commissioners and residents stressed the role of drainage canals on timber lands in worsening flooding and called for cooperation with forestry companies. The board agreed to hold a workshop to set priorities and invite state agencies and stakeholders, with the Florence-level flood — plus an additional margin — set as the baseline for planning.
Employee recognition
Social Services Director Chris Meadows recognized Wanda Scott as the North Carolina Child Support Services 2025 Frontline Employee of the Year for her 26 years of service.
Jail meal bids
Chief Detention Officer Jason Jarman reported two bids for inmate meals: Legacy Hospitality at $3.99 per meal and Subway at $6.15. Despite the lower bid, commissioners accepted staff’s recommendation to stay with Subway, citing logistics concerns, lack of references, and the vendor’s lack of experience serving jails. Subway currently charges $5.95 per meal.
Opioid response measures
Health Director Adrian Smith presented two initiatives funded with opioid settlement dollars:
OneBox units: $4,000 to purchase 25 naloxone kits with protective equipment for public locations.
Post-Overdose Response Team: $80,000 agreement with the CarolinaEast Foundation to staff a team serving Jones and Pamlico counties.
Both measures were approved unanimously.
Community and emergency services updates
Deputy County Manager Jennifer King reported the Jones County Community Closet served more than 650 people in August. A $10,000 Herald Bate Foundation grant will fund storage units to expand service. The closet will reopen Oct. 17, 18 and 20, with Halloween costume donations encouraged.
Emergency Services Director Ryan Mills updated commissioners on:
Progress in the county fire study and fire ordinance drafts, now under state review.
A new EMS supervisor vehicle (QRV), expected to enter service Oct. 1. It will be stationed centrally during the day and at local stations overnight.
The 2021 Community Development Block Grant housing program, with two new homes under construction and additional alternates moving forward.
Review of 30 applications for the 2025 housing grant cycle.
Other actions
Commissioners:
Approved a grant project ordinance for Brock Mill Pond enhancements, funded by state, federal and local sources.
Approved a letter supporting the FEMA Act, aimed at streamlining disaster assistance.
Approved the consent agenda, including minutes, budget amendments #9–10, FEMA lease renewals, reappointment of the tax administrator, the Southern Health Partners Agreement, and an amendment to the FY 2026 fee schedule.
Manager’s report
County Manager Kyle Smith highlighted:
The Heritage Festival set for Sept. 26–27, including a beach music concert and parade.
The launch of a county AI chatbot named “Dave” for resident questions.
Mailing of tax bills.
Ongoing discussions about affordable housing partnerships.
A planned insert featuring Jones County Public Schools in an upcoming utility bill.
A reminder to contact county staff directly to resolve issues rather than relying solely on social media.
Attorney’s report
County Attorney Ross Mabry noted the Local Government Commission was scheduled to meet Sept. 9 to consider the county’s economic development funding package.
Commissioner comments
Commissioners voiced support for scheduling a dedicated flood study workshop and participation in the upcoming American Flood Coalition meeting. Commissioner Michael Haddock urged moving quickly to provide feedback to engineers, and other members emphasized the need for state and forestry stakeholders at the table.
Closed session
The board entered closed session under attorney-client privilege before adjourning.
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