The Moore County Board of Commissioners met Monday, Dec. 1, to discuss ongoing water system upgrades, hear from public speakers, and support a speed reduction near Stars Charter School.
Water System Updates
The commissioners received a detailed update on the East Moore Phase 5 water expansion, which began after a petition from 35 residents living along Wadsworth and Manor roads. Public Works Director Brian Patnode said the project could eventually serve up to 160 customers through planned extensions along Red Branch, Old River, Kelly, and McCrimmon roads.
The work is expected to cost between five and six million dollars, but Patnode said the county continues to seek funding support. Previously, county officials requested state assistance through Rep. Jackson, but have not received a response. The county also explored a USDA Rural Development loan at an estimated interest rate of 5.25 percent over 40 years, but agency conversations stalled during a furlough. Patnode said the county hopes to hire a consultant to complete a preliminary engineering report and prepare a USDA application.
Commissioners discussed sending a resolution to county representatives urging support for the project.
Patnode also presented updates to the Moore County Public Utilities (MCPU) Water & Sewer Ordinance. The revisions include provisions allowing extended payment periods during emergencies, removing Social Security number requirements, clarifying dates, updating fee wording, and requiring renters to provide lease agreements. The updates follow a November board decision to grant payment extensions to residents affected by government shutdowns or other emergencies.
Before moving forward, Commissioner Nick Picerno asked whether the changes would create unexpected charges, confusion, or “sticker shock” for customers. Patnode said the revisions only clarified existing language and would not result in additional costs, and that Moore County Public Utilities would consider similar changes at its next meeting.
The commissioners approved the updates.
Animal Services Debate Continues
Residents asked the county to remove animal services from the Sheriff’s Office and establish an independent department that would report to county management. Supporters at the meeting said the county needs a professionalized system with trained officers, a dedicated director, long-term planning, and collaboration with volunteers. They cited examples of other counties where independent animal services improved public trust and reported increased program effectiveness. They also alleged that a new shelter would not succeed without experienced staff and coordinated programs.
Opponents who also spoke at the meeting said the current system works well and allows quick responses to safety concerns and other potential hazards. They raised concerns about losing services provided under the Sheriff’s Office and questioned whether the proposal might lead to new restrictions for residents or a lack of service.
Commissioners acknowledged the petition signed by residents and said they would consider holding a work session in January to examine the request. Board members asked how the county would coordinate animal services with a new private shelter valued at $16 million. Commissioners said the county should continue playing a central role even as private providers expand services.
Speed Reduction at STARS Charter School Approved
The commissioners supported a plan to reduce speeds on U.S. Highway 1 near Stars Charter School following reports of congestion and safety concerns during student drop-off and pick-up. The speed limit is currently 55 miles per hour, but traffic studies showed that most drivers travel at 60 miles per hour or faster, with some reaching 85 miles per hour. Daily traffic volume now exceeds 31,000 vehicles, compared to about 21,000 in 2019.
“Approximately 900 students attend the school and most of the students are brought to school by their parents,” notes the resolution. “With increased student enrollment at STARS and increased traffic on US-1, there are increased safety concerns during morning drop-off.”
The North Carolina Department of Transportation recommended creating a school zone with a 45-mile-per-hour limit during one hour in the morning and one hour in the afternoon, along with flashing lights, painted markings, improved turn lanes, and earlier warning signs.
County staff facilitated meetings between school officials, the Sheriff’s Office, and NCDOT. After surveys and discussions, the state agreed to the lower speed. Commissioners approved a resolution supporting the plan, and implementation is expected to occur on December 8.
Click here to watch the full meeting on video.
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~ Article by Sandhills Sentinel Assistant Editor Abegail Murphy. Abegail has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2021.
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