Community groups announce Double Bucks kickoff and new watchdog group during public comment

During the public-comment portion of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners meeting, two residents announced local organizing efforts focused on food access and government accountability.

Elizabeth Lynn, a Clayton resident speaking for DownHome, said the group will hold a free "Turn Up the Value: Double Bucks" kickoff on Saturday, April 12, from 12 to 2 p.m. at the Clayton Main Street Community Garden, 439 East Main Street. Lynn described the campaign as focused on increasing access to fresh produce for low-income families and seniors and urged commissioners to consider funding in the county budget to help local farmers markets accept Double Bucks or similar programs. The kickoff will include fruit samples, demonstrations, and a family-oriented event with an Easter-egg activity, Lynn said.

Kevin Saunders told commissioners he is organizing a group called the Watchdogs of Johnston County to "address issues in Johnston County where you might feel that the county government has come up short." Saunders provided an email address and said a website will follow.

Lynn asked commissioners to talk with her and DownHome about data the group has gathered and potential county actions to support Double Bucks at farmers markets. She said food-insecurity demand at a local food bank led members to prioritize the campaign and that the group aims to educate families on using farmers markets and community gardens.

No formal board action was taken during the public-comment period; both items were announcements and requests for future engagement with county staff and elected officials.