Edgecombe County removed from North Carolina's unit assistance list after audit improvements

The Edgecombe County Commissioners held a meeting on August 4, 2025, focusing on several key agenda items, including financial updates and community initiatives.

The meeting began with a significant announcement regarding Edgecombe County's status with the North Carolina Department of Treasury. After years of addressing audit findings and improving financial practices, the county is no longer on the Local Government Commission's unit assistance list. This list is designated for counties that require additional oversight due to financial discrepancies. The county's staff, particularly the finance department led by Ms. Barfield, received commendations for their hard work in achieving this milestone. The commissioners expressed optimism about the county's improved financial standing, which will enhance its ability to borrow funds for future projects.

Following this announcement, the county manager provided updates on various topics, including workforce development indicators and financial reports. A notable point discussed was the opioid settlement agreement, which will bring additional funding to the county as a result of settlements with multiple opioid manufacturers. While the exact amounts are still pending, the manager indicated that these funds would support community initiatives, including programs for community paramedics.

The meeting also included a report from a commissioner who shared their involvement in several committees at the National Association of Counties (NACO), emphasizing the importance of these roles in bringing valuable information back to Edgecombe County.

As the meeting concluded, it was announced that the next commissioners' meeting would be rescheduled to September 2, 2025, due to the Labor Day holiday. Overall, the meeting highlighted the county's progress in financial management and ongoing efforts to address community health issues through new funding opportunities.