02-17-2026 Meeting Minutes BOC
February 17, 2026
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PERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS February 17, 2026
MEMBERS PRESENT OTHERS PRESENT
Kyle Puryear Katherine M. Cathey, County Manager
Sherry Wilborn Michele Solomon, Clerk to the Board
Jason Thomas
Antoinetta Royster
Donald Long
The Board of Commissioners for the County of Person, North Carolina, met in
Regular session on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. This meeting was set as the
Board’s annual retreat focusing primarily on the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget and/or any
other topics as deemed appropriate. The Retreat location was in the Auditorium of the
Person County Office Building located at 304 S. Morgan Street, Roxboro, NC.
Chairman Puryear called the meeting to order and recognized a quorum was present.
He then called for a moment of silence in remembrance of Register of Deeds Tonya Wilson.
DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Wilborn and carried 5-0 to approve the
agenda.
DISCUSSION/ADJUSTMENT/APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA:
A motion was made by Vice-Chair Wilborn and carried 5-0 to approve the
Consent Agenda with the following items:
A. December 22, 2025, Minutes
B. January 20, 2026, Minutes
C. January 29, 2026, Minutes
D. Budget Amendment #13
E. Report of Unpaid 2025 Real Estate Taxes
F. Advertisement of Unpaid 2025 Real Estate Taxes
G. Tax Adjustments for February 2026
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PRESENTATION OF THE ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2025
Chief Financial Officer Tracy Clayton introduced Hunter Wiseman, Audit
Manager with Thompson, Price, Scott, Adams & Co, P.A., the accounting firm that
completed the annual county audit. Mr. Wiseman stated that county finances are good
from an audit standpoint. He presented the following audit results to the Board.
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A motion was made by Commissioner Long and carried 5-0 to accept the annual
comprehensive financial report for FY25.
MID-YEAR FISCAL UPDATES
Chief Financial Officer Tracy Clayton presented the following:
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Vice-Chair Wilborn expressed concerns regarding revolving loan arrangements
and referenced the Kerr-Tar COG. Clayton addressed these, noting that the older program
in the county budget is still being repaid and has a few years remaining. Commissioner
Long asked if Clayton had any concerns about the fund balance, to which she replied she
had none. County Manager Katherine Cathey stated that the target is to maintain a 25%
available fund balance, and when that threshold is exceeded, the Board may transfer the
excess to the Capital Investment Fund. She recommended retaining a modest excess in the
General Fund until fiscal year-end to avoid dropping below the policy minimum.
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PROPERTY TAX REVENUE PREVIEW
Tax Administrator Russell Jones presented the following:
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Jones reported that actual revenues exceeded conservative estimates, resulting in a
positive impact on the fund balance. He explained that the increase was driven by
valuation growth and the effects of reappraisal.
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FINANCIAL MODEL
Chief Financial Officer Tracy Clayton introduced Andrew Carter with DEC who
presented the following:
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Commissioner Royster asked questions regarding General Obligation (GO) Bonds,
and Vice-Chair Wilborn inquired about the process. Carter explained that the success rate
of recent GO Bonds often depended on project mix, noting that school and transportation
projects tended to be more favorable. He discussed legislative changes related to general
election placement and tax impact disclosure, as well as the schedule and flexibility
provided by the 7-year window and 3-year extension. He stated that DEC will use the
model to explore “what-if” scenarios that could maintain a ballot impact at $0, depending
on capacity and timing.
BREAK/RECESS
Chairman Puryear called a recess at 11:08 a.m. and reconvened the meeting at
11:20 a.m.
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FY27 BUDGET PREVIEW
County Manager Katherine Cathey presented the following:
Vice-Chair Wilborn asked about Centennial Park, specifically the difference
between soft opening and grand opening. Cathey explained that a soft opening allows
controlled public use during daylight hours to refine trail systems while continuing the
build-out of trails and amenities ahead of the grand opening. Wilborn inquired about
tracking usage, and Cathey stated that usage tracking will be reviewed with Parks staff.
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Commissioner Royster asked questions regarding jail-related cost increases.
Cathey noted that the jail food service contract is expected to increase by 9.5%.
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Vice-Chair Wilborn reported that the NCACC recently addressed healthcare
during a statewide meeting, focusing on medical costs for inmates. Cathey explained that,
due to federal changes affecting inmate coverage, jail medical expenses are expected to
increase by approximately $200,000.
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Commissioner Royster stated it was her understanding the body scanner for the
Detention Center would be funded through Opioid Settlement funds. Cathey clarified that
research had been completed and confirmed that Opioid Settlement funds cannot be used
for that purpose. She noted that the purchase may be funded with the remaining balance of
ARPA funds. Royster emphasized that CIP requests need to be prioritized.
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Vice-Chair Wilborn and Commissioner Royster both emphasized that position
requests needed to be thoroughly evaluated.
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Chairman Puryear stated that he would like to see a decrease in the tax rate and
emphasized the need for careful review of revenues and expenditures.
Vice-Chair Wilborn expressed that the County should implement a “Purchase
Local” policy.
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A motion was made by Vice-Chair Wilborn and carried 5-0 directing the County
Manager to present a purchasing policy that prioritizes local businesses, whenever
feasible, at the March 16, 2026, meeting.
A motion was made by Vice- Chair Wilborn and carried 5-0 to enter into Closed
Sessions at 11:18 a.m.
Chairman Puryear called the closed sessions to order at 11:30 a.m.
CLOSED SESSION #1
A motion to enter into Closed Session #1 per General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3) for the purpose
to consult with the county attorney in order to preserve the attorney-client privilege in matters
related to the following lawsuits: Person County v. Reaves, Person County v. Yarboro, and Hot
Rock Haulers v. Person County with the following individuals permitted to attend: County
Manager Katherine Cathey, Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon, and County Attorney T.C.
Morphis, Jr.
CLOSED SESSION #2
A motion to enter into Closed Session #2 per General Statute 143-318.11(a)(6) for the
purpose to discuss personnel with the following individuals permitted to attend: County
Manager Katherine Cathey, Clerk to the Board Michele Solomon, County Attorney T.C.
Morphis, Jr., and Human Resources Director Sonya Carver.
A motion was made by Commissioner Long and carried 5-0 to return to open
session at 12:30 p.m.
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
County Manager Katherine Cathey introduced EDC members, Vice-Chair Philip
Allen and member Kenneth Perry, who were invited by the Board to discuss the
organizational structure of the Economic Development Department.
Overview and Comments by Vice-Chair Philip Allen:
Economic Development as a Team Effort: Success requires aligned, consistent
communication and collaboration among:
o Board of Commissioners
o County Manager
o EDC Executive Director
o EDC Executive Committee
o Full EDC Board
Importance of “Product”: Projects depend on shovel-ready sites, modern buildings,
and infrastructure (water/sewer, power, access). Past successes occurred because
product was available.
Role of EDC Executive Director: Serves as the central point among stakeholders;
must be strong, communicative, and trusted—responsible for recruitment,
managing prospects, and supporting existing industries.
Retention of Existing Industry: Recruitment should not overshadow proactive
support for current employers.
Comments by EDC Member Kenneth Perry:
Evolving Business Needs: Many prospects now seek existing buildings with
specific specifications (clear height, floor loads, dock doors, utilities) rather than
raw land.
Building Limitations: Privately owned, non-spec buildings in Person County often
fail to meet modern manufacturing requirements, reducing competitiveness.
Regulatory Efficiency: Processes should remain hands-on, accountable,
responsive, and streamlined; avoid unnecessary layers that slow projects.
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Discussion followed amongst the Board of Commissioners and EDC members.
Lead Flow & Constraints:
Project Opportunities: Approximately 110 opportunities received in the past year;
only four met minimum criteria for submission—indicating insufficient “product.”
Debt Capacity: Based on Local Government Commission (LGC) formulas and
current obligations, borrowing capacity is limited. New debt may require a tax
increase without new revenues.
Economic Catalyst Fund:
o Annual general fund contribution: $250,000
o Current balance: approximately $2.5 million
o Some incentives are paid from this fund
o Discussion included using the fund more actively for:
Site/park development
Pad-ready projects
Targeted incentives
Alternative Strategies:
o Explore public-private programs to incentivize building modernization
(e.g., grants, tax abatements, cost-sharing) to meet modern specifications.
o Consider performance-based approaches for EDC operating support or
contracts tied to new investment—subject to legal review and policy
clarity.
Board Guidance & Expectations:
The Board expects the EDC to present all legitimate projects to Commissioners for
consideration—regardless of anticipated vote outcomes—to ensure transparency
and avoid missed opportunities.
Commissioners emphasized the need for cooperation, communication, and
alignment among the Board, County Manager, and EDC leadership.
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STRATEGIC PLAN
County Manager Katherine Cathey presented the current strategic plan
(adopted/amended effective July 1, 2025) and sought Board feedback on goals and
strategies for the coming budget cycle. Goals are intended for 2–4 years; strategies for 1–2
years with quarterly reporting.
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Vice-Chair Wilborn stated that she would like to see 3.1 changed to in-progress.
She also asked if there is a return on investment related to the Civics Academy. She
suggested that Economic Development be added to 16.2. Commissioner Royster had
concerns related to items 2.1 and 2.2., and Cathey advised that staff will keep priorities
aligned with debt capacity and economic development needs. She stated that staff will
continue to review and refine strategies with department heads and bring recommended
adjustments to the Board during the budget process.
A discussion ensued regarding a City-County partnership request (South
Elementary Sidewalk).
The City of Roxboro has grant funding for a sidewalk near South Elementary
School; a shortfall of just over $400,000 remains.
The City of Roxboro has informally requested the County consider funding half
(~$200,000+) due to proximity to County-funded schools and public safety
benefits (student pedestrian safety).
Board discussion: General interest in hearing a formal presentation; Commissioner
Royster expressed support given student safety concerns.
It was the consensus of the Board for Cathey to coordinate with the City of
Roxboro to schedule a presentation and bring a decision item to a future Board meeting.
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INFORMAL COMMENTS:
There were no individuals that appeared before the Board to make informal
comments.
CLOSING REMARKS:
Chairman Puryear read a letter from the Democratic Party recommending Deputy
Register of Deeds Lauren Horak for the appointment of Register of Deeds. He asked that
this be placed on the Board’s next meeting. He acknowledged George Willoughby with
the Courier-Times, and wished him the best of luck in his future endeavors. He thanked all
in attendance and staff for the work that was put into the presentation for the budget
retreat.
Vice-Chair Wilborn expressed condolences to the Wilson family. She expressed
thanks to all that worked and assisted during the severe weather that we had recently. She
stated that the Housing Summit was held and had great representation. She stated that she
attended the meet-and-greet with Voltage. She expressed thanks to all involved with the
budget preparation and presentation for the retreat.
Commissioner Royster expressed condolences to the Wilson family. She stated
that she attended the Open-House for the newly renovated 911 Center and appreciated the
invite and time that she spent there.
Commissioner Long expressed condolences to the Wilson family, Womack family
and the family of Rev. Jesse Jackson. He stated that he attended the Rec Board meeting
and the Fire Chiefs’ meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
A motion was made by Chairman Puryear and carried 5-0 to adjourn the meeting
at 1:44 p.m.
____________________________ ______________________________
Michele Solomon Kyle Puryear
Clerk to the Board Chairman