New Hanover County Board of Commissioners Meeting - May 18, 2026

The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on May 18, 2026, which included recognition of retiring employees and those reaching service milestones. The board introduced a bond order authorizing the issuance of $320,525,000 in general obligation bonds to fund capital projects for New Hanover County public schools, including new and replacement schools and district-wide improvements. A resolution was adopted to set a public hearing for June 1, 2026, to allow public comment on the bond order. The meeting also featured a detailed presentation of the county's fiscal year 2025-2026 financial results through March 31, 2026, highlighting property and sales tax revenues, expenditures, and budget variances. The board discussed the recommended fiscal year 2026-2027 budget, which maintains the property tax rate at 30.6 cents and includes funding for schools, public safety, and community organizations. The budget passed with a 4-1 vote, with one commissioner dissenting over funding methods. Additionally, the board approved contracts for economic development appropriations to local arts and community organizations. Committee appointments were also made during the meeting.