Onslow County commissioners press for confidentiality in closed sessions, warn bonds could raise taxpayer costs and cite Gum Branch Road safety concerns

Commissioners at the Onslow County Board meeting on Oct. 6 used the comment period to emphasize confidentiality for closed sessions, caution that bonding for capital projects could increase taxpayer burdens, and raise safety concerns about Gum Branch Road.

Multiple commissioners — including Tony Padgett, Joe Buchanan and another commissioner whose comments focused on operational security — said leaks from closed sessions are unacceptable and argued for sanctions if a source is identified. “When we have people leaking stuff out of closed session, that’s bad, and it’s gotta stop,” Commissioner Joe Buchanan said. He called for sanctions if closed‑session material is disclosed by insiders.

Several commissioners also discussed the county’s capital plans and the potential fiscal impact of bonds. Commissioner Royce Davis reminded residents that issuing bonds ultimately increases taxpayer obligations and urged public attention as the board considers future debt for major projects. County Manager David Smitherman and board members had earlier described bonding as likely for construction of the county’s proposed indoor recreation facility.

Commissioner Buchanan and others also expressed concern about traffic safety on Gum Branch Road after Buchanan said his daughter was in a crash there. He said he would be inclined to oppose new commercial or housing projects that would increase congestion on that corridor until the North Carolina Department of Transportation prioritizes improvements: “If I’m sitting up here and there’s a project of a new business … on Gum Branch Road … I’m gonna be against it because it doesn’t need it.”

Commissioners also publicly thanked county staff for events such as the dairy derby and new facilities including the emergency operations center and noted upcoming community outreach events such as National Night Out.