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What makes sense
Protecting our environment
New Hanover County continues to grow, but growth should be managed responsibly and in the best interest of residents—not simply developers.
Developers should pay their fair share and should not receive unnecessary subsidies or special treatment.
Conservation areas should be protected from development and preserved for future generations.
Regarding the PFAS (“forever chemicals”) issue in the Cape Fear River, I support the attention incumbent Commissioner Rob Zapple has brought to this important issue and believe the county should remain engaged in protecting our community’s environmental health.
Managing our budget
As a Certified Management Accountant, strong financial management is my calling card. New Hanover County should focus on reducing debt service costs, which currently consume about 12% of the county budget. Lower debt obligations would free up resources for core services while improving the county’s long-term financial health.
Because voters in 2022 rejected a tax increase referendum, property taxes should be held at their current level. In order to increase spending on priorities, the county should seek greater efficiency across its operations and ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely.
The County Endowment, which now exceeds $1.5 billion, deserves closer scrutiny. Locking this money up was a policy mistake by the County and it should now explore all avenues to see that money is used to reduce debt, invest in public schools, and provide meaningful tax relief for residents.
Educating our Children
Education is one of the county’s most important responsibilities. Today, county spending is divided roughly equally among Education, Public Safety, and Health & Social Services. If anything, I believe education should receive a larger share of county resources.
At the same time, investment should be strategic. While school enrollment has remained relatively flat over the past five years, our focus should be on improving educational outcomes, supporting teachers, and supporting a student centric model that lets funding follow student needs.
I welcome thoughtful discussion about county spending priorities and encourage residents to share their perspectives on how we can best invest in our community’s future.