From the Desk of Senator Brent Jackson October 14, 2026 | | |
Dear Friend of Senate District 9,
Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter and staying connected with the latest news from District Nine and our efforts in the General Assembly.
My team and I are committed to serving our community and our state, working hard each day to bring about positive change. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue addressing the important issues impacting our district! Your voices and concerns continue to guide our efforts in the General Assembly, and we remain focused on bringing your priorities to the forefront.
Thank you for your continued support!
Sincerely,
| | Now that the General Assembly is in the interim, the newsletter will be on a bi-weekly schedule. | | |
With the General Assembly now in an extended recess, lawmakers will spend the coming months working in their districts and assisting constituents. The legislature is expected to reconvene later this year to address any unfinished business and consider additional legislative matters as needed until next year's long session.
Legislation of the Week
House Bill 3 – Relief at the Pump Act (Gas Tax Holiday)
House Bill 3, known as the Relief at the Pump Act, temporarily suspends North Carolina's state motor fuel tax to provide financial relief to drivers, families, farmers, and businesses across the state.
The legislation suspends the state's motor fuel tax of approximately 41 cents per gallon from October 10 through November 30, 2026. The temporary suspension applies to gasoline, diesel, and other qualifying motor fuels, helping reduce fuel costs for North Carolinians.
The bill also includes provisions providing additional flexibility for agricultural operations, including temporary changes to certain restrictions on the use of dyed diesel fuel in highway vehicles.
Senator Jackson supported the legislation, which passed the Senate unanimously by a vote of 41-0. The bill passed both chambers and was signed into law by Governor Josh Stein on October 9, becoming Session Law 2026-62.
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What is a Special Session?
While the North Carolina General Assembly meets during regularly scheduled legislative sessions, lawmakers can also be called back to Raleigh for a special session, sometimes referred to as an extra or extraordinary session.
Special sessions allow the General Assembly to address specific issues that may require attention outside its regular schedule. These can include emergencies, budget matters, or other important issues affecting the state.
Under the North Carolina Constitution, the Governor can call a special session with the advice of the Council of State. The legislature can also call itself into a special session when three-fifths of the members of both the House and Senate submit written requests.
Unlike regular sessions, special sessions are generally focused on particular issues rather than the full range of legislative business. This allows lawmakers to return to Raleigh and address matters that need additional attention.
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East Bladen Eagles Hold Off East Columbus in Homecoming Victory
The East Bladen Eagles celebrated homecoming with a 22-20 victory over East Columbus on Friday, October 9, at Lenon Fisher Stadium in Elizabethtown.
East Bladen built an early lead before East Columbus rallied in the fourth quarter. With the Gators attempting a game-tying two-point conversion, Braylon Johnson and the Eagles' defense made a crucial stop to secure the win.
Jaden Lewis-Gary led the Eagles with 196 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Zamarion Pone added two touchdowns. The victory marked East Bladen's ninth consecutive win over East Columbus.
The Eagles improved to 6-2 overall and 4-0 in conference play. They will travel to Salemburg on October 16 to face Lakewood in a matchup for first place in the Carolina Conference.
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Beulaville Approves Stormwater Improvement Plan
The Beulaville Town Board recently approved a Stormwater System Capital Improvement Plan aimed at addressing drainage issues and reducing flooding throughout the town.
Linwood Stroud of Stroud Engineering presented findings from a study of the town's stormwater infrastructure, revealing that approximately 75% of existing pipes are undersized. The plan identifies five priority projects, including improvements along Highway 24, Kennedy Road, and Bostic Street.
The first two projects, estimated at more than $2.2 million combined, were recommended as the highest priorities. The board approved the plan to help guide future infrastructure improvements and funding decisions.
During the meeting, officials also provided updates on construction at the town park, which is expected to reopen with a new walking trail in late November or December. The board also approved $5,000 for Christmas decorations and banners along Main Street.
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Jones County Announces Groundbreaking for New Public Works Facility
Jones County officials have announced plans to break ground on a new public works facility in Trenton. The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Monday, October 19, at 11 a.m. at 1539 Highway 58 North.
The new facility represents an investment in Jones County's public infrastructure and will support the county's public works operations. County leaders have invited residents and members of the community to attend the ceremony and celebrate the start of construction.
The project marks another step in Jones County's ongoing efforts to improve local facilities and services for residents.
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Pender County Superintendent Named North Carolina Superintendent of the Year
Pender County Schools Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove has been named the 2027 A. Craig Phillips North Carolina Superintendent of the Year. The award was presented during a ceremony in Greensboro on October 8, recognizing his outstanding leadership and dedication to public education.
Since becoming superintendent in January 2023, Dr. Breedlove has led efforts to improve academic achievement, expand career readiness programs, and strengthen school operations. Under his leadership, Pender County Schools has received statewide recognition for academic growth and graduation rates. The district's Career and Technical Education program also ranked among the top 10 in North Carolina for credential attainment in 2025.
Dr. Breedlove, who has served in public education for more than 20 years, credited the district's teachers, staff, students, and school board for their contributions to its success.
He will now represent North Carolina in the competition for National Superintendent of the Year at the national education conference in Atlanta in February 2027.
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Clinton Police Officers Wear Pink Badges for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The Clinton Police Department is showing its support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month by wearing special pink badges throughout October. This is the first year the department has participated in the initiative, which began on October 1.
Police Chief Adrian Mathews and Assistant Chief Jesse Kittrell helped introduce the badges as a way to raise awareness and show support for breast cancer survivors, those currently battling the disease, and their families.
Several officers shared personal connections to breast cancer, explaining how the badges hold special meaning for them and their loved ones. The department hopes the gesture will serve as a reminder of the importance of breast cancer awareness while showing support for members of the Clinton community affected by the disease.
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Agriculture Spotlight:
North Carolina Celebrates Country Ham Restaurant Week
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North Carolina is celebrating one of its longtime agricultural traditions with Country Ham Restaurant Week, taking place October 15–25. The event brings together 11 restaurants across the state to showcase creative dishes featuring North Carolina country ham.
Participating restaurants will offer unique takes on the Southern favorite, including country ham carbonara, shrimp and grits, and traditional country ham biscuits. The event highlights the importance of North Carolina's pork industry while supporting local farmers, producers, and restaurants.
Country ham has been a staple of North Carolina agriculture for generations, with traditional curing methods passed down through families. The celebration also coincides with the return of the N.C. State Fair Country Ham Competition, recognizing the farmers and producers who continue this longstanding tradition.
Country Ham Restaurant Week provides an opportunity to celebrate North Carolina's agricultural heritage while introducing new generations to one of the state's most recognizable Southern foods.
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Historical Spotlight: Liberty Hall in Duplin County
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Located in Kenansville, Liberty Hall is one of Duplin County's most notable historic landmarks, with roots dating back to the early days of North Carolina's history.
The original Liberty Hall was the home of James Kenan, a prominent Revolutionary War leader and early North Carolina statesman. Kenan played an important role in the American Revolution and later served in the North Carolina Senate. The original home was destroyed by fire around 1800, but the Kenan family built another Liberty Hall in Kenansville during the early 19th century.
The historic home remained in the Kenan family for generations and was the site of the 1901 wedding of Mary Lily Kenan and Henry Flagler, a prominent businessman who helped develop Florida's railroad system.
In 1964, the property was donated to Duplin County and later restored and opened as a museum in 1968. Today, Liberty Hall preserves an important piece of Duplin County's history and offers visitors a glimpse into life in 19th-century North Carolina.
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