Washington County commissioners elect Tracey A. Johnson chair, approve budget amendments; Sexton says he will not seek re-election

PLYMOUTH, N.C. — The Washington County Board of Commissioners elected Commissioner Tracey A. Johnson chair for 2021–22 and unanimously approved a slate of routine agenda items and budget amendments at its Dec. 6 meeting, where Commissioner William R. “Bill” Sexton Jr. announced he will not seek re-election.

Commissioner Julius Walker nominated Tracey A. Johnson for chair; Commissioner Ann C. Keyes seconded. County Manager Curtis Potter conducted a roll-call vote and the motion carried unanimously. Johnson then presided over the remainder of the meeting. Commissioner Carol V. Phelps nominated Ann C. Keyes for vice-chair; Walker seconded and the nomination was approved by roll call.

The Board approved the consent agenda, which included minutes, tax refunds and releases, the 2022 meeting and holiday schedules, RESO 2021-027 (a resolution to request appropriation of additional state funds to reduce the impact of COVID-19 related family expenses), records-retention schedules, a draft FY2022–23 budget calendar and an audit contract. The consent vote was unanimous.

During public forum, resident Jimmy Jones raised concerns about local road maintenance and requested a meeting with a state senator. Jack Sheets told the Board his community has evidence that Cardinal Lane existed in 1974 and urged DOT accountability. Chair Johnson told the speakers she would follow up and noted that Senator Erica Smith no longer represents Washington County; she said the county’s senator is Bob Steinburg.

Ms. Brandy Turbeville of TPSA presented the draft audit summary and answered questions. Turbeville explained that GASB refers to Government Accounting Standards; Chair Johnson thanked her and said no Board action was required on the audit at this time.

Finance Officer Missy Dixon reviewed budget transfers and amendments. Commissioner Sexton asked for clarification on BA#2022-033; County Manager Potter explained that new Governmental Accounting Standards Board rules require the Department of Social Services to set up trust fund accounts, which is the purpose behind the line item. Commissioner Sexton moved to approve the budget transfers and amendments; Commissioner Keyes seconded and the roll-call vote was unanimous.

County Manager Potter and Clerk Julie J. Bennett reviewed administrative items including upcoming parade schedules and committee seat assignments. Chair Johnson said she attended the National Association of Counties conference and expressed interest in forming a broadband task force to address rural connectivity needs. Potter also told the Board a resolution is needed to place a Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) referendum on the ballot and asked for direction on timing and content.

At the meeting close, Commissioner William R. “Bill” Sexton Jr. announced he will not run for re-election in 2022, saying in part, “It has been a privilege for the last 20+ years serving you.” The Board thanked Sexton for his years of service. Richard Livingston, an LFNC fellow, also asked the Board to designate a commissioner to participate in VUR (distressed water system) training; Commissioners Keyes and Phelps agreed to serve provided the training is held in the Commissioners’ Room.

The Board moved into a closed session under N.C.G.S. §143-318.11(a)(3) and (a)(6) and reconvened before adjourning at 7:45 p.m. The Board scheduled a Budget Planning Workshop for Jan. 24, 2022 at 4:00 p.m.