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Board approves 2026 meeting roster, reappoints Dangerous Dog Board members and discusses SNAP support and early voting
Summary
The board approved the 2026 meeting roster (one meeting monthly with two in April), reappointed three members to the Dangerous Dog Board, and discussed forming a public list of resources after reports SNAP benefits could be interrupted; city manager also reminded residents about early voting hours.
The New Bern Board of Aldermen on Oct. 28 approved its 2026 meeting roster, reappointed three members of the Dangerous Dog Board, and discussed potential city responses to a reported disruption of SNAP benefits.
City staff presented three options for the 2026 meeting schedule and the board selected the option that schedules one meeting per month with two meetings in April for budget reasons. A motion to approve the roster passed.
Mayor moved to reappoint Donna Baker, Dr. Steve Stima and Dr. Bobby Kotobah to the Dangerous Dog Board; the board approved those reappointments by voice vote.
During new business, a board member raised reports that SNAP benefits might be put on hold effective Nov. 1 and asked whether the city should partner with local nonprofits or host food drives. A fellow board member recommended compiling a list of assistance resources for residents and publishing it on the city website and social media; staff indicated no legal or procedural barriers to assembling such a list.
City manager also reminded the public that early voting continues through Saturday with weekday hours 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.–3 p.m., and on election day precincts open from approximately 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
No formal program funding or a specific city-run distribution plan was adopted at the meeting; the board directed staff to consider placing a vacancy appointment item on the next meeting agenda and to proceed with normal administrative actions for reappointments and routine items.
