County, Plymouth officials pledge more housing outreach, highlight foreclosure programs

Commissioner Ann C. Keyes and Plymouth Councilwoman Deborah Spencer said residents often do not know what housing-assistance programs are available and urged more proactive outreach. County Manager and County Attorney Curtis Potter said the county has successfully routed URP and SFR grants through NCHFA and, since partnering with the Albemarle Commission, can help get information and applications to residents.

Town Manager Joanne Floyd said the town holds several foreclosed properties it would like to return to productive use and suggested placing program information in water bills. Councilman Gregory Boston proposed a joint town-hall meeting for all municipalities and the county to explain available options. Potter described current outreach channels — the Beacon, social media, flyers in county offices and ministerial networks — and advised coordination with the Albemarle Commission for additional assistance.

Officials did not adopt a formal outreach plan at the meeting but agreed on next steps to share information across jurisdictions. The discussion included a demographic note from Potter that county population rose by seven people last year, which he described as younger households replacing prior attrition. The board and council indicated they would pursue combined public meetings and targeted communications to raise awareness of rehabilitation and re-occupancy programs.

At the meeting’s close, members reiterated they want concrete follow-up rather than one-off discussions and asked staff to continue coordinating outreach efforts.