Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce endorses $320M bond request from New Hanover County Schools

WILMINGTON, N.C. The Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors voted today to formally endorse the New Hanover County Schools (NHCS) Board of Education request for a $320 million school bond to be placed on the November 2026 ballot.
 
“Modern, safe, and well-equipped schools are fundamental to economic growth, workforce development, and quality of life,” said Jim Hundley, Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce Board Chair. “Education and healthcare are two of the most important economic drivers in our community, and this bond represents a responsible and forward-thinking investment in New Hanover County’s future.”
 
The resolution follows months of review by the NHCS Budget and Capital Finance Committee, a group composed of school board members, county commissioners, county and school staff, and representatives of the public. The committee has met since early 2025 to assess more than $600 million in identified capital needs, including essential repairs, renovations, and new school facilities.
 
County staff indicated early in the process that only a limited amount of debt capacity is available for new bonds. In response, the committee worked collaboratively to evaluate and prioritize projects. Their recommendation, which was accepted by the NHCS Board of Education, identifies a package that slightly exceeds the county’s available debt capacity and forms the basis of the Board of Education request for a $320 million bond referendum.
The Chamber conducted research on voter sentiment and found strong community support for investment in school facilities. More than 70 percent of likely voters surveyed indicated they would support a school bond of $300 million.
 
"High-quality school facilities are essential to workforce development, talent retention, and our long-term economic competitiveness," said Natalie English, President and CEO of the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. "Our board believes this bond represents a responsible and necessary investment in the future of New Hanover County."
 
The full resolution was approved by the Chamber Board of Directors on November 20, 2025.