The Dare County Board of Commissioners convened on September 3, 2025, to address pressing community concerns, particularly in the wake of Hurricane Aaron, which significantly impacted the Buxton area. The meeting featured public comments highlighting the urgent need for state and federal support to bolster coastal resilience and address the aftermath of the storm.

The session began with a passionate plea from a local resident who described Buxton as being in a state of emergency following the hurricane. The speaker emphasized the historical significance of the area, known as the Graveyard of the Atlantic, and urged the commissioners to advocate for federal and state partnerships to prevent further abandonment of the community. The resident referenced past interventions by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which had previously altered the coastline to protect vital landmarks like the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.

Following this, Adonis Osekri, chairman of the Friends of the Outer Banks History Center, invited the commissioners to the grand reopening of the center on September 30, celebrating its renovations and commitment to preserving local history.

Another speaker, Shannon, raised concerns about the financial burdens faced by teachers in North Carolina, highlighting that educators spend an average of $1,632 out of pocket on classroom supplies. She expressed gratitude for the commissioners' ongoing support for the local education system, despite the challenges posed by the state's budgetary constraints.

Brett Harley, representing the Buxton Civic Association, expressed appreciation for the commissioners' responsiveness post-hurricane. He acknowledged the county's efforts in providing support and resources to the affected community, noting the significant damage and ongoing vulnerabilities in Buxton and surrounding areas. Harley called for continued advocacy for long-term solutions to enhance safety and communication in the region.

The meeting underscored the community's resilience and the critical need for collaborative efforts to address the challenges posed by natural disasters and the ongoing vulnerabilities of coastal areas. The commissioners are expected to follow up on the discussions and work towards securing necessary support for Buxton and its residents.