Commissioners approve $250,000 loan to Seagrove to finish cannery and seek certificate of occupancy

The Randolph County Board of Commissioners approved a $250,000 loan to the town of Seagrove to complete renovations at the Seagrove Cannery and secure a certificate of occupancy. Mayor Fernandez told commissioners the town has invested over $3 million into the project but still cannot use about two‑thirds of the building without the final work and occupancy certificate.

“We currently have...spent a little over $3,000,000 to try and get the cannery up and operating. We don't have a certificate of occupancy right now, which means two‑thirds of the building we can't use,” Mayor Fernandez said, and requested a county loan rather than a grant. Town leaders said remaining items include final HVAC and painting work and that completing those items in the coming months would let Seagrove host scheduled pottery and arts events.

Commissioners reviewed a draft loan agreement and directed staff to finalize terms with county legal staff. The board then voted to authorize a $250,000 loan and allowed the county manager to sign the contract. Supporters noted expected community and tourism benefits: county tourism figures for 2024 show 14,550 visitors to events tied to the cannery, and town officials said the multi‑use space will host arts events, indoor sports and youth training. No county tax appropriation was approved; the action authorized a loan and required execution of a contract documenting repayment terms.

The vote was taken during regular business after public comment and staff briefing; the board approved the loan by voice vote and directed county staff and legal counsel to finalize the contract.