March 30, 2026 Special Meeting

Burke County Board of Commissioners Special Meeting Recap Date: March 30, 2026

The Burke County Board of Commissioners convened for a special meeting on March 30, 2026, focusing on personnel transitions, administrative appointments, and community program approvals. The session began with a recognition segment honoring Spring Williams-Byrd, who is retiring from her role with the Cooperative Extension after 37 years of service. The Board expressed gratitude for her long tenure and the consistent support the county has provided to the Extension program. A celebration for Williams-Byrd was noted to have taken place recently at the Ag building, with Commissioners expressing pleasure in attending.

Following the recognition segment, the Board entered a closed session authorized by North Carolina General Statute 143-318 to discuss contractual and personal matters, with the Human Resources Director present. Upon returning to open session, it was confirmed that no action was taken during the closed session. The Board then proceeded to address several key personnel appointments necessitated by recent departures. A motion was made and approved by a 5-0 vote to appoint Cat Wright as the Interim Clerk to the Board, effective April 1, 2026. This appointment will remain in place until a permanent Clerk is selected.

The Board also approved the appointment of Ashley as the Interim Local Public Health Director. Ashley took an oath to faithfully discharge the duties of her office in accordance with the Constitution and laws of North Carolina. The Chairman emphasized the Board's excitement to work with Ashley in the coming months while the county continues the process of identifying a permanent Health Director. No other motions or votes were recorded during this segment of the meeting.

The final portion of the meeting addressed the Spring 2026 Citizens Academy. The Board considered additional applicants for the program and approved the following individuals to participate: Amber Austin, Geronimo, Ron Black floor, and Terry Redmond. These individuals will join the Spring 2026 Citizens Academy, which is scheduled to begin on April 9, 2026. The Board’s decision ensures these citizens can engage with local government operations and services through the academy.

There were no public comments or community input recorded during this special meeting. Regarding next steps, Cat Wright is scheduled to assume the role of Interim Clerk to the Board on April 1, 2026. The county will continue its search for a permanent Local Public Health Director, and the approved Citizens Academy participants will proceed with the program starting in April. No other follow-up actions or commitments were explicitly stated by members or staff during the meeting.