Pender County commissioners approved several budget actions aimed at economic development and community programs.

Commissioners voted to allocate $500,000 in economic development appropriations intended to support site development for an Amazon last‑mile facility that staff estimated could generate substantial property tax revenue and more than 1,400 jobs. The allocation was presented as a discretionary incentive to reduce utility and site development costs for the prospective tenant.

Separately, commissioners authorized a $125,000 allocation from the water and sewer enterprise fund to pay Garver Engineering for a feasibility study to evaluate regionalizing water/sewer service to the town of Atkinson, where failing septic systems prompted an environmental and public‑health concern. Anthony Colon of Pender Water & Sewer explained that DEQ has funds allocated for water infrastructure but Atkinson needs a completed feasibility study to apply; the county will be reimbursed if legislation secures funding.

The board also approved a $50,000 budget amendment to support the Leader in Me program at Penderly School, a school‑based leadership and student success initiative. Commissioners said these investments balance long‑term tax base growth and near‑term community needs.

What’s next: Staff will finalize terms associated with economic development incentives, contract Garver Engineering for the feasibility work and report back on the scope for Atkinson and pursue required grant or legislative funding.