On May 30, 2026, at approximately 11:10 AM, the Kinston Police Department's Violent Crime Action Team (VCAT), with assistance from D-Squad officers, concluded an investigation into the distribution of crack cocaine in Kinston.
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Kinston traffic stop leads to marijuana, firearms charges
On May 29, 2026, at approximately 8:16 PM, KPD's B-Squad conducted a traffic stop on Highway 11 North for a motor vehicle violation.
Jones County manager proposes budget with unchanged county tax rate, new fire district tax
Jones County Manager Kyle A. Smith has presented a proposed fiscal year 2026-2027 budget that would keep the countywide property tax rate unchanged while adding a new dedicated fire protection tax.
Practical Hurricane Season Preparation Starts Before the First Storm
Hurricane season officially begins June 1, and for eastern North Carolina, preparation is not just a coastal concern. Heavy rain, flooding, downed trees, power outages, tornadoes and washed-out roads can affect families well inland, even when a storm never makes a direct hit.
Lenoir County beginning teachers recognized with Buzzing Bee BT Award
Lenoir County’s Sigma Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma recognized outstanding beginning teachers in their third year of teaching in May with the Buzzing Bee BT Award.
Lenoir County land transfers
The following land transfers were filed with the Lenoir County Register of Deeds:
Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office Celebrates D.A.R.E. Graduations
The Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office proudly celebrated the completion of D.A.R.E. graduations at seven elementary schools throughout Lenoir County, reaching approximately 400 students during the program.
Judco Manufacturing Inc. Celebrates Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony in Greene County
SNOW HILL - Community leaders, state officials, and regional economic development partners gathered Friday morning to celebrate the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for Judco Manufacturing Inc., marking another significant milestone for industrial growth and investment in Greene County and Eastern North Carolina. Judco Manufacturing, Inc., an automotive supplier, will create 60 new jobs in Greene County. The company will invest more than $5.3 million in moving its headquarters and research and development operations to Snow Hill.
Greene County Commissioners Review Tight FY26-27 Budget, Salary Study and Possible Changes During Workshop
Greene County commissioners used a recent FY 2026-2027 budget workshop to question spending priorities, employee raises, utility fees, recreation concerns, landfill planning and whether the county should continue funding a lobbyist contract.
Lenoir County Farmer's Market update May 30, 2026
Market Information · Location: 100 N. Heritage Street, Kinston, NC · Hours: Tuesday & Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Greene County Manager Proposes FY 2026-27 Budget With Steady Tax Rate, Fee Increases and Salary Adjustments
Greene County Manager Kyle DeHaven has presented a proposed fiscal year 2026-2027 budget that keeps the county’s property tax rate steady while recommending several fee increases, salary adjustments and targeted spending changes.
Kinston Capital Plan Includes Police Technology, Fire Staffing Decision and Park Project Reductions
Kinston departments requested more than $4.6 million in capital outlay for fiscal year 2026-27, but the manager’s recommended budget funds about $3.9 million.
Lenoir County Transit Faces First General Fund Subsidy as Commissioners Debate Fares, Service Model
Lenoir County commissioners discussed the future of the county’s transit system during their FY 2026-27 budget workshop, including a proposed general fund contribution for the first time.
Kinston Recommended Budget Lowers Tax Rate, Holds Utility Rates Steady
Kinston’s recommended budget for fiscal year 2026-27 proposes a lower property tax rate, no increases to major utility rates and the implementation of a new pay and classification plan for city employees.
Kinston Police Department: Social media threats lead to terrorism arrest
On Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Kinston Police Department received information regarding social media videos allegedly posted by 43-year-old Justin Church of Kinston that contained threats directed toward law enforcement and judicial officials within Lenoir County.
$40 Million Courthouse Renovation Sparks Debate Among Lenoir County Commissioners
A proposed renovation of the Lenoir County Courthouse became one of the major points of debate during the county commissioners’ FY 2026-27 budget workshop, as board members weighed building needs against concerns about taxpayer burden.
Lenoir County Manager Recommends Increasing LCPS Operational Funding to $11 Million
Lenoir County Manager Michael James recommended increasing Lenoir County Public Schools’ operational allocation to $11 million during the county commissioners’ FY 2026-27 budget workshop.
What Kinston’s Proposed Tax Rate Cut Means for Property Owners
Kinston property owners would see a lower city tax rate under the recommended fiscal year 2026-27 budget, but the actual savings will depend on each property’s assessed value.
Lenoir County Commissioners Debate Tax Relief, Spending Priorities During FY26-27 Budget Workshop
Lenoir County commissioners reviewed a proposed FY 2026-27 budget that would maintain the county’s current property tax rate while funding employee pay adjustments, public safety, school operations, transit needs and several capital priorities.
Public Notice: Notice of Public Hearing FY 2026-2027 Budget
The public is hereby advised that per G.S. 159-12, the Interim City Manager has submitted the proposed budget for the City of Kinston for FY 2026-2027 to the Mayor and the City Council. A copy of the proposed budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027 is on file in the office of the City Clerk, the Public Library and on the City of Kinston's website, www.kinstonnc.gov. The budget is available for public inspection during normal business hours untilthe budget ordinance is adopted. The City Clerk's office is located in City Hall at 207 E. King Street, Kinston, North Carolina.