President's Report from April 20, 2026

This morning, the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved their intent to apply to the Local Government Commission to place a $320.5 million school bond on the November ballot. This follows the Board of Education’s unanimous adoption of the proposal and reflects strong alignment across our local leadership.

If approved by voters, these funds will support critical school facility needs across our district. Top projects include a new Trask Middle School on the SEA-Tech campus designed for approximately 1,000 students ($94.7 million), Phase I of the New Hanover High School Master Plan ($59.7 million), and the replacement of Pine Valley Elementary School ($56.3 million). The current estimate for taxpayers is an increase of 1.75 cents per $100 of property value, but that could still change. Pending approval from the Local Government Commission, county commissioners will hold a public hearing on the bond referendum on June 1. 

We want to emphasize our appreciation for the bipartisan leadership shown by our commissioners in advancing this proposal and working collaboratively to move it forward. We also recognize that this bond will not solve every challenge facing our school system. The needs are greater, and they will require sustained focus and investment over time. But this is a strong and necessary start. In the months ahead, the Greater Wilmington Chamber, alongside partners including Cape Fear Realtors®, BASE, and others will help lead a community education effort, so voters understand what this investment makes possible for our region’s future workforce and quality of life.

We are also pleased to share a few leadership updates within the Chamber’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Laura Miller (LS3P) has stepped into the role of Treasurer as Ernie Bovio has stepped down to lean into his new job responsibilities at UNC Health. Ernie will remain on our Board of Directors. Laurie Whalin (Novant Health) has joined our Board of Directors and, at the request of our chairman, is now serving as Chair of the Personnel Committee. Each brings strong leadership and a deep commitment to our mission. As always, our work moves forward thanks to great partnerships, collaboration, and a shared vision to improve our community, and we are grateful for the leaders who offer us their service.