Craven County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Craven County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Craven County Schools FY27 Budget Request
The Craven County Board of Education is asking county commissioners to distribute NC lottery funds for Tucker Creek Middle School. This affects school capital funding for the Tucker Creek community.
COSSUP Grant Rollover for Substance Abuse Services
The county is exploring a partnership with Southeastern Integrated Care to expand local mental health treatment, residential recovery housing, and jail diversion bed capacity.
2026 Limited Obligation Bonds Issuance
Craven County is issuing up to $25 million in limited obligation bonds to fund capital projects like facility upgrades in Havelock and New Bern, chiller replacements at the judicial center, and library renovations.
Proposed $25 Million Limited Obligation Bonds
The county is moving forward with up to $25 million in limited obligation bonds to fund multiple capital projects, including government facilities in Havelock and New Bern, parking improvements, a maintenance facility, a judicial center chiller, a public defender's office, Cove City Library, and DSS updates.
FY 2026-2027 Proposed County Budget
The county approved a $169.1 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year that keeps property taxes flat at 44.48 cents per $100. It funds key local services, school debt service, and employee compensation.
Opposition to State Property Tax Limitations
Commissioners discussed state-level property tax reform proposals and revaluation spikes, emphasizing the need to address valuation increases rather than capping tax levies.