Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Taxes topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents press commissioners on taxes and public safety as board vows to address revaluation impacts
Summary
During public comment residents asked about tax deferment for elderly landowners and urged redirecting $2 million toward public-safety response instead of roads. Commissioners responded at length in their comment period, promising to work to lower the tax rate after the recent revaluation and urging civic participation amid low voter turnout.
Two residents used the public-comment period at the Onslow County Board meeting on March 4 to press elected officials about taxation and public-safety priorities.
Jack (Jake) Holland, who said the Holland family has farmed 312 acres on Deputy Road since 1875, asked what deferment options exist for elderly landowners and described his concern that long-held family property faces heavy taxation. He said he and his brother are in their 70s and asked the board to consider relief options.
David Williams, of 109 Shadowbrook Drive, urged commissioners to prioritize public safety and proposed reallocating $2 million of state-directed funds into local public-safety efforts, arguing that faster emergency response can save lives regardless of road ownership or classification. "Every second that is delayed getting to those people can make a world difference," he said.
Commissioners used their comment period to respond to wider public concerns, especially about the recent property revaluation. Multiple commissioners said they do not support raising taxes and pledged to pursue lowering the tax rate during the upcoming budget process. Several commissioners also urged the public to use the tax-office appeal process and provided the tax-office phone number; Deputy County Manager Mr. Eaton noted revaluation notices had been sent and that an online appeal option is available.
Elected officials expressed frustration at misinformation circulating on social media, urged civility in public debate and called for greater voter participation after noting single-digit turnout figures in a recent primary. Commissioners also described ongoing infrastructure work — including potential economic-development and water projects — and praised local EMS efforts and CPR-training events.
