Pender County Board discusses $2.5M funding for nonprofit agencies and school programs

In a recent budget work session held on April 28, 2025, the Pender County Board of Commissioners engaged in extensive discussions regarding funding allocations for various outside agencies and educational support programs. The meeting highlighted the county's commitment to supporting local organizations while also raising questions about the effectiveness and transparency of funding decisions.

One of the key topics was the county's education agreement, which provides $5,000 for employees pursuing relevant degrees, contingent upon their commitment to remain with the county for one to two years post-graduation. This initiative aims to enhance workforce development within the county, although concerns were raised about the relevance of certain degrees funded under this program.

The session also focused on outside agency funding requests, which are submitted annually by both returning and new organizations. The budget team reviews these requests, which are due by March 1 each year. This year, five new requests were presented, including funding for the Parks Foundation of Burga, Pender County Christian Services, and the Pender Arts Council, with allocations ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. Commissioners debated the merits of these requests, particularly in light of the county's ongoing recovery efforts from recent hurricanes.

A significant point of contention arose regarding the $75,000 allocated to Trillium Health Resources, a mental health provider. Some commissioners questioned the rationale behind this funding compared to other mental health services available in the area. The discussion underscored a broader concern about how funds are distributed among various nonprofits and whether the county is adequately addressing the needs of its residents, particularly those affected by housing instability and food insecurity.

Commissioners expressed a desire for a more structured approach to funding decisions, suggesting that all nonprofits should have the opportunity to present their cases for support. The need for transparency in how funds are allocated was emphasized, with calls for a clearer understanding of the impact these organizations have on the community.

As the meeting concluded, commissioners agreed to review the funding requests individually and consider a more organized method for future allocations. The discussions reflected a balancing act between supporting essential services and ensuring fiscal responsibility in the face of community needs. The board plans to reconvene to finalize decisions on the budget, with an emphasis on addressing the pressing needs of Pender County residents.