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.
What’s in the State Budget for the Border Belt?
The spending plan lawmakers released this week includes millions of dollars for local initiatives.
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.
Bladenboro Gets $1.6 Million to Prevent Flooding
The project, funded by the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality, aims to improve drainage and keep water away from downtown.
Bladen County Board of Commissioners Remains Intact
Bladen County Commissioners dropped a proposal to decrease its number of representatives after criticism from residents and advocacy organizations.
Should Bladen County Have Fewer Commissioners?
The county’s governing board is larger than most in N.C. But some skeptics fear shrinking it could diminish Black voters’ power.
More Bladen County Coverage
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.
Drought, Rising Fuel Costs Strain North Carolina Farmers
Despite recent rainfall, the state is experiencing the worst drought in nearly two decades.
Border Belt Schools Say They Need More Local Money to Fill Budget Gaps
Meanwhile, county leaders say they are also struggling to keep up with rising costs for services.
Border Belt Counties Push Back Against Proposed Changes to Property Taxes
Local leaders say counties should determine property revaluations and tax rates, not the North Carolina legislature.
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