Residents press county on law enforcement structure, child-abuse prevention; commissioners proclaim Lineman and Child Abuse Prevention observances

At its meeting the Harnett County Board of Commissioners heard several members of the public on enforcement, child welfare and committee participation and issued two proclamations recognizing line workers and April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Larry Mitchell, a resident of Cameron, told commissioners he favors keeping a single law-enforcement agency in the county "and that's the Sheriff's Office," and cautioned that creating a separate police force could shift funding away from other departments. "Sheriffs are elected by the people," Mitchell said, arguing that a police force could be more political because the chief would be appointed.

Sarah Lee, identified as a family integrity advocate, spoke during the public-comment period about National Child Abuse Prevention Month and the symbolism of blue ribbons and pinwheels. Lee linked prevention work to community partnerships and said local agencies should develop prevention plans. "I encourage you ... to read Matthew 18," Lee said while urging attention to the protection of children and greater prevention efforts; she also referenced recent federal litigation and foster-care concerns discussed in the community.

Rebecca Brock, a resident, highlighted citizen service on county advisory committees and noted several commissioners' committee assignments listed on the county website. Brock asked Commissioner Bruce Matthews to consider resigning from one of his two boards so he could focus on either county constituents or his school-board duties, saying federal funding pressures will increase the workload for school governance.

Earlier in the meeting Commissioner Bill Morris read a proclamation recognizing April 18 as Line Worker Appreciation Day in Harnett County and thanked local line workers for maintaining the energy grid during storms. Commissioner Bruce Matthews read a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and called for community participation to support families and prevent abuse.

Other public commenters raised minor items including interest in serving on the Dangerous Dog Committee and a request from a citizen to be connected with staff to receive committee appointment information. County leadership directed those individuals to follow up with Deputy County Manager Coley Price for next steps.

The public-comment period lasted up to one hour per meeting rules; the transcript shows multiple citizens spoke on distinct topics but no formal board actions were taken in response during the session recorded.