Washington County adopts Juneteenth as a paid county holiday in 4-1 vote

The Washington County Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 on Aug. 6 to adopt June 19 (Juneteenth) as a paid county holiday, advancing a formal recognition of the date in county policy.

Vice-Chair Commissioner Riddick introduced the resolution and the Clerk read it aloud before the full board. Commissioner Walker moved to adopt the resolution and Commissioner Johnson seconded; the motion carried 4-1 with Commissioner Sexton voting nay.

The resolution cites NCGS 153-A-94 as the authority to establish local paid holidays. In introducing the measure, Vice-Chair Commissioner Riddick said, “My fellow Commissioners, I stand before you tonight in hopes that I can and will receive your support to adopt June 19 also known as Juneteenth as a local paid county holiday… Now let’s make some history.”

Supporters framed the change as an effort to recognize the full breadth of American history and to align the county’s holiday calendar with other jurisdictions that have adopted Juneteenth. Commissioner Sexton registered a formal dissent but did not make an extended floor statement explaining his vote during the recorded discussion.

The board’s action is final for county policy; the resolution will be reflected in county personnel and payroll processes for future fiscal planning.