Board of Commissioners Special QJ Meeting

Burke County Board of Commissioners Special Meeting Recap – November 17, 2025

On November 17, 2025, the Burke County Board of Commissioners held a special (quasi-judicial) meeting focused on an ongoing matter concerning the Marshallese New Beginnings Church property at 8123 George Hildebran School Road in Connelly Springs. This meeting, which was also live-streamed on YouTube, centered around a previous order requiring repairs and demonstrating financial ability to complete those repairs, stemming from building code violations identified earlier in 2025. The Board’s decision directly impacts the availability of temporary housing for members of the Marshallese community currently residing on the property.

The primary discussion revolved around whether to grant an extension to the compliance deadline, originally set for November 14, 2025. County staff, led by Chief Building Inspector Kenny Green, presented an update showcasing significant progress in addressing the identified code violations. Four out of several units are now approximately 99% complete, with upgrades including new electrical services, bathroom fixtures, kitchen cabinets, and heating units. Tommy Labuigi, representing the property owner/contractor Kurt Aby, formally requested an extension until March 31, 2026, citing permitting delays and the need for additional time to complete renovations while minimizing disruption to residents. The discussion acknowledged the challenges of the permitting process and recognized the importance of providing safe and adequate temporary housing for the Marshallese community. Commissioners expressed support for this purpose, with Commissioner Smith noting a desire to see the temporary housing evolve into more permanent and higher-quality residential options.

Following deliberation, the Board unanimously voted (4-0) to grant the requested extension until March 31, 2026. This decision effectively rescinds and nullifies the previous order to vacate. No further hearings are required unless compliance is not achieved by the extended deadline. The Board also unanimously approved an agenda and accepted a presentation of photographs documenting the progress made, designated as Exhibit 1.

While no direct public comments were recorded during the meeting, Commissioner Smith highlighted Phil Smith's efforts in facilitating the process. No action items were assigned to the public, but County staff will continue monitoring progress at the property to ensure compliance with building codes. Kurt Aby and Tommy Labuigi are responsible for continuing renovations, aiming to complete all work by the extended deadline.

This decision ensures that temporary housing remains available for members of the Marshallese community while renovations continue, providing a crucial service to those in need. Residents can expect ongoing monitoring of the property's compliance status, and further action will only be required if full compliance isn’t met by March 31, 2026. The Board's commitment to supporting the Marshallese community and ensuring safe housing options was evident throughout the proceedings.