Columbus County Still Has ‘Financial Management Issues,’ State Auditor Says
The state, which has been monitoring the county’s finances since 2020, highlighted several concerns in a new report.
RECENT STORIES
Chemours Settles Forever Chemicals Lawsuit Out of Court
More than 2,600 plaintiffs sued the chemical manufacturer for releasing GenX and other PFAS into the Cape Fear River.
In Some Parts of N.C., Majority-Black Public Schools Are First on the Chopping Block
Studies have found districts tend to close schools that serve minority students first. The closure of a Bladen County school highlights the impact.
Data Point: Finding Childcare in Rural Communities
The number of so-called childcare deserts are increasing in rural communities across the United States, according to a new report.
Rising Costs for State Health Plan Strain Local Budgets
Whiteville officials said they had to raise taxes to keep up with the insurance program for government employees. Meanwhile, Columbus County workers won’t get raises.
Columbus County Will Get a New Team of Community Paramedics
Officials say a state grant will help the county handle emergency calls for behavioral health issues, including overdoses.
What’s in the State Budget for the Border Belt?
The spending plan lawmakers released this week includes millions of dollars for local initiatives.
Is the Lumbee Casino Plan Dead?
Two days after tribal members voted against a constitutional amendment that would have opened the door to gaming, the tribal council directed its attorney to explore other “legal pathways.”
Scotland and Bladen Counties Can’t Use New Property Values
A new state law that mandates a one-year moratorium on property tax rate increases in some counties has led to budget uncertainty.
Politics / Government
Lumbee Tribe Rejects Amendment Opening the Door for a Casino
Tribal leaders said a casino could bring jobs to rural southeastern N.C., but critics worried about speed and transparency.
What’s in My Weed?
Our investigation found many hemp products for sale don’t have the THC levels they claim—but do contain bacteria and other contaminants.
Robeson County Commissioners Decline to Censure Chairman for Controversial Post
David Edge apologized on June 15 for sharing an “offensive” meme about President Barack Obama.
‘We Just Want Clean Water.’ Residents Sue Robeson County Over Landfill Contamination
The lawsuit, filed in federal district court, alleges the county has known for years that the landfill leaches PFAS into drinking water.
Education
UNC Pembroke Wants To Train More STEM Teachers
A new program will offer free tuition to students who pledge to teach math and science in the Sandhills.
North Carolina’s Medical School Boom
New schools in Charlotte and Fayetteville—and soon Wilmington—could help ease the state’s doctor shortage.
Bladen County School Closure Puts Summer Camp at Risk
Men and Women United for Youth and Families hosts a 10-week program at East Arcadia School, which will close in June.
Data Point: How Many Border Belt Students Get Private School Vouchers?
More students in Bladen, Columbus, Robeson, and Scotland counties received taxpayer-funded Opportunity Scholarships this year.
Health
UNC Health Southeastern Partners with Local Nonprofit to Improve Care
The director of the Robeson County Church and Community Center director called the partnership “revolutionary” for health care access in rural areas.
What the Medicaid Deal Means for the Border Belt
The legislature approved $319 million to keep the program afloat for more than 3 million recipients across North Carolina.
Behavioral Health Urgent Care Set to Open in Robeson County
The facility will be open 24 hours a day to help patients who are experiencing a mental health or substance misuse crisis.
State Approves Plans for Two Hospitals Near Brunswick-Columbus County Line
N.C. regulators gave the preliminary go-ahead to Columbus Regional Healthcare System and Novant Health to build hospitals seven miles apart.