This is an unofficial summary of the meeting produced by the Dare County Public Relations Department. It does not include all items that were discussed at the meeting. Click here to view a PDF of the full agenda packet for the meeting that was held at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

To view the video of the meeting on Dare County’s YouTube channel, please click the button below. Official minutes for the meeting are posted once they have been approved by the board, typically at the board’s next meeting, which is usually held on the first Monday of the following month. To access minutes for meetings dating back to 2017, please click here.

Following a scheduled public hearing, the Dare County Board of Commissioners adopted the Fiscal Year 2026–2027 budget, which will become effective on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. The property tax rate remains unchanged at a rate of 26.32 cents per $100 of assessed value.

Key Budget Highlights:

• General Fund Budget: $145.6 million
• Key Priorities: Public safety, education, employee compensation and maintaining service levels
• Public Safety: $46.6 million (32%)
• Education: $33.06 million (23%), including a $677,000 increase for Dare County Schools
• Employee Pay: 3% cost of living increase for full-time Dare County staff
• Position Changes: 6 full-time, 2 part-time (temporary) positions added; reclassification of 9 positions; 6 positions eliminated.  

Rate Adjustments:

Water Rates: The finalization of the Water Rate Model reduced the proposed rate increase by 2.0% from the proposed budget presented at the board’s May 4, 2026 meeting. As a result, the budget approved by the Board of Commissioners on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 includes only the planned 4.5% annual rate increase, over a five-year period, to replenish the Extension and Replacement Fund balance to approximately $8 million. These rate adjustments apply only to unincorporated Dare County water customers.

Dare County Assistant Manager/Special Projects & Procurement Manager Dustin Peele provided the Dare County Board of Commissioners with an update on the ongoing beach nourishment projects in Avon and Buxton. Beach nourishment in Avon began on May 28, 2026, and Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company has already completed approximately 110,000 cubic yards of sand placement—about 33% of the overall project. The contractor is currently working in the middle section of the Avon project area and will continue north toward Avon Pier before moving south to complete the remaining shoreline. Based on current progress, the Avon project is expected to be completed within the next 12-14 days, weather permitting*.

Once work in Avon is complete, the contractor will demobilize in Avon and move their equipment to Buxton, where Great Lakes currently expects to begin pumping sand starting the week of June 21, 2026 (weather permitting). The Buxton project is anticipated to take approximately 90 to 95 days to complete, with work expected to continue through late September 2026.* County officials emphasized that the nourishment project will help strengthen and protect the shoreline in an area that has experienced ongoing erosion challenges.

Positive news regarding the Buxton beach nourishment project was announced: The county has received confirmation that the requested FEMA reimbursement funding has come through.  

In addition, Peele provided an update on the Buxton terminal groin repair project, which is being coordinated with the beach nourishment effort to maximize efficiency and enhance the long-term stability of the shoreline. Dare County received three bids for the repair work, and the Board of Commissioners unanimously approved moving forward with the lowest bid ($5.8 million) pending completion of the county's due diligence review. The action authorizes Dare County Manager Bobby Outten to execute the contract and proceed with the project if no concerns are identified during the review process. Should any issues arise, the matter will be brought back before the Dare County Board of Commissioners for further consideration.

For more information about beach nourishment and shoreline stabilization efforts in Dare County, visit MoreBeachToLove.com. 

*NOTE: Please note that information regarding the timeline(s) for each beach nourishment project is subject to change due to a variety of factors, including weather, equipment issues and other unforeseen circumstances. 

Greer Beaty Consulting Technical Director Jim Trogdon provided the Dare County Board of Commissioners with a status update on the firm's ongoing work to identify short-term and interim solutions for erosion and overwash issues impacting N.C. Highway 12 on Hatteras Island. County Manager Bobby Outten noted that Dare County engaged the consulting firm in March 2026 to help address the recurring challenges affecting the island's sole transportation corridor and lifeline. The presentation focused on progress made to date and the development of a strategy aimed at improving the resilience of vulnerable sections of the highway while longer-term solutions continue to be pursued.

Trogdon reported that the first two phases of the firm's immediate action plan have already been completed, including coordination with industry experts and the North Carolina Department of Transportation to evaluate interim bridge options and associated costs. The team is now beginning the next phase of work—analyzing and prioritizing the most vulnerable "hot spot" locations along N.C. Highway 12. This effort will assess which bridge types and construction approaches are best suited for specific areas based on site conditions/topography and costs, among other factors. Work on the fourth task—funding analysis and development strategies—is expected to begin in August 2026.

The presentation highlighted interim bridging as a proactive and cost-effective approach for addressing chronic overwash locations. According to the consultants, elevating portions of the roadway within the existing right-of-way could reduce the need for repeated dune maintenance and emergency repairs while preserving access for residents, visitors and emergency responders. The firm noted that approximately $70 million has been spent on roadway and berm repairs since 2010 and that recurring maintenance costs are becoming increasingly unsustainable. Interim modular, timber and cored-slab bridge options are being evaluated as potential solutions that can be deployed more quickly and at a lower cost than traditional long-term bridge projects.

Looking ahead, the consulting team will continue its hot spot analysis, establish priority rankings based on vulnerability and immediate need, and develop funding recommendations tied to specific project options. Trogdon said the goal is to complete the plan by early October 2026, providing Dare County with a clear roadmap and greater flexibility to pursue funding opportunities and implement targeted resilience improvements along N.C. Highway 12.

Three representatives from Garage Band Charities—Michael Tillett, Richard Quigley and Sarah Hole—appeared before the Dare County Board of Commissioners to present charitable donations generated through the 2026 OBX Rod & Custom Festival. Garage Band Charities, a local nonprofit organization, hosts the annual festival and is committed to returning 100 percent of participant registration fees to charitable causes. 

This year's event held in May attracted 1,243 registered vehicles and generated $66,000 in charitable contributions, bringing the organization's eight-year giving total to more than $315,000. Organizers also highlighted a new initiative at this year's festival that encouraged participants to park vehicle trailers at the Dare County Regional Airport and make voluntary donations through a QR code system, generating an additional $890 while helping reduce late-night noise impacts in the event area.

During the meeting, Garage Band Charities presented donation checks to several local organizations and programs. The largest contribution, $30,000, was awarded to the Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County, whose mission is to connect children, adolescents, and families with programs and partnerships to ensure they have what they need to thrive.

Additional donations included:

$8,000 to the Virginia Tillett Endowment Fund at Elizabeth City State University to provide scholarships for qualified students.

$5,000 to support Outer Banks Food for Thought's mission to reduce academic risk due to hunger by providing weekend meals during the school year for all Dare County Pre-K through 12th grade students who qualify for free and reduced-price meals.

$2,500 to The Wave Function Project to support its free summer camp program for children and young adults with developmental disabilities.

$1,000 to the Dare County Regional Airport Museum in recognition of its educational value to the community.

Garage Band Charities also noted that it is supporting a total of 18 charitable organizations and funds this year. In addition to those recognized during the meeting, donations have been or will soon be distributed to a variety of scholarship funds, food pantries, toy funds, educational initiatives and community outreach programs throughout Dare County and the surrounding region, further extending the impact of the festival's fundraising efforts.

The Dare County Board of Commissioners approved Barnhill Contracting Company to construct the new pickleball courts at the Soundside Event Site in Nags Head. Barnhill submitted the lowest of four bids received for the project, with a bid amount of $651,110. The Board of Commissioners also authorized County Manager Bobby Outten to execute the contract, allowing the project to move forward into the construction phase.

The project will add a new pickleball facility featuring 10 regulation pickleball courts and supporting infrastructure designed to enhance recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. In addition to the courts themselves, the project includes associated site improvements such as lighting, fencing, sidewalks, utility extensions and parking area modifications. Construction is currently anticipated to begin this summer and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026. For the latest project updates, please visit DareNC.gov/Projects.

Trillium Health Resources Senior Regional Vice President Dave Peterson presented the organization’s annual report to the Dare County Board of Commissioners, highlighting Trillium's ongoing efforts to ensure residents have access to critical behavioral health and support services through its network of local providers. Trillium connects individuals and families with mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and traumatic brain injury services, helping residents access care and resources that improve quality of life and strengthen community well-being. Peterson reported that 676 Dare County residents received services during Fiscal Year July 2024 to June 2025.

The presentation emphasized both the scope of services provided and the continued need for behavioral healthcare in the community. Trillium reported that approximately 20 percent of the Dare County residents served received mental health services, a significant percentage that underscores the importance of maintaining access to mental health treatment and support. The update also included information about community outreach efforts, mobile services, re-entry support programs, and youth-focused initiatives designed to reduce barriers to care and connect residents with needed resources. To view a PDF of the presentation that was delivered during the meeting, click here.

The Dare County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to hold a public hearing at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 regarding new regulations governing the sale of kratom in Dare County. The proposed regulations would prohibit the sale of kratom products to individuals under the age of 21 and establish standards aimed at preventing the sale of adulterated or potentially unsafe kratom products.

Kratom is an herbal substance derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, a plant native to Southeast Asia and related to the coffee family. While kratom is marketed and used for a variety of purposes, public health officials and regulatory agencies have raised concerns about products that contain synthetic compounds, contaminants or unusually high concentrations of certain active ingredients. Potential health risks associated with these products may include adverse physical and psychological effects, particularly among younger individuals.

The proposed regulations are intended to protect public health and consumer safety by restricting youth access to kratom and ensuring that products sold in Dare County meet established safety standards. The public hearing to be held at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at the Dare County Administration Building in Manteo (954 Marshall C. Collins Drive) will provide an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to learn more about the proposed requirements and offer feedback before the regulations take effect.

Dare County Deputy County Manager/Department of Health & Human Services Director Dr. Sheila Davies presented an overview of Dare County’s School-Based Behavioral Health Services Program, highlighting its significant impact on student well-being since its launch in August 2025. Built upon the longstanding partnership between the Dare County Department of Health & Human Services and Dare County Schools, the program was established to expand access to behavioral healthcare, reduce barriers to treatment and improve outcomes for students through strong collaboration with school staff and families.

The program provides school-based counseling services delivered by licensed behavioral health professionals who work directly within schools, making care more accessible and consistent for students. Services address a broad range of needs, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, behavioral challenges, emotional regulation difficulties, family life stressors, peer conflict, bullying, school avoidance and absenteeism, low self-esteen and identity concerns, self-harm and suicidal ideation, substance use (early intervention/prevention) and academic stress, among others. In addition to providing therapeutic support, the program helps students develop emotional regulation, resilience, coping skills, social competence, self-awareness and other critical life skills while connecting families with school and community resources.

During the presentation, Dr. Davies reported that the program has completed 1,489 student visits from August 2025 through April 2026, with demand continuing to grow across the district. Feedback from school staff and families has been overwhelmingly positive, citing improved access to care, stronger support for students and families, enhanced collaboration among service providers, and positive outcomes including reductions in aggressive behavior and suicidal ideation.

The presentation also emphasized the program’s role in fostering a culture of wellness, reducing stigma surrounding mental health services, and providing early intervention before concerns escalate into crises. Looking ahead, Dare County plans to continue tracking the program’s outcomes and impact, address funding and payer challenges, continue building sustainable long-term behavioral health supports and explore opportunities to expand provider coverage to meet increasing student needs.

ITEM 14: Series 2026A & Series 2026B Limited Obligation Bonds

The Dare County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution approving an amendment to an installment financing contract and authorizing related actions for debt associated with the Nags Head, Avon and Buxton beach nourishment projects.

The financing totals $55,095,000 and is expected to close in mid-June through a private placement. The Dare County Justice Center will be used as collateral.

The Series A bonds total $13,095,000 for the Nags Head project and carry an interest rate of 3.14%. The Series B bonds total $42,000,000 for the Avon and Buxton projects and carry an interest rate of 3.62%.

ITEM 16: Fiscal Year 2027 - Fiscal Year 2031 Capital Improvements Plan

The Dare County Board of Commissioners approved the recommended Fiscal Year 2027 - Fiscal Year 2031 Capital Improvements Plan totaling $108,386,036 and adopted the related capital project ordinances and budget amendments. Click here to view the Dare County Capital Improvements Plan presentation delivered during the Dare County Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

ITEM 17: Nags Head EMS - Series 2026C Capital Project Ordinance Amendment and Guaranteed Maximum Price Contract

The Dare County Board of Commissioners approved the Capital Project Ordinance Amendment to reflect project savings, correct the cost of issuance and establish the budget for the Nags Head EMS Station construction. In addition, they approved the construction contract with Barnhill Contracting Company for the new facility with a guaranteed maximum price of $10,692,212 and authorized County Manager Bobby Outten to sign the contract.  

For more information, visit DareNC.gov/Finance. 

The Dare County Board of Commissioners adopted the following proclamations:  

• Proclamation Designating June 15, 2026 as “World Elder Abuse Day”

• Dare County DHHS - Public Health Opioid Settlement Funds Resolution & Budget Amendment for FY 2027
  
  
• Resolution of the Board of Commissioners of the County of Dare, North Carolina, Approving an Amendment to an Installment Financing Contract and Delivery Thereof and Providing for Certain Other Related Matters

The Dare County Board of Commissioners welcomes citizen participation on advisory boards and committees. This type of grassroots public involvement is the foundation of democracy and a vital part of maintaining Dare County as a quality place to live. Following is a list of Dare County advisory boards and committees with terms expiring during the next three months: 

July 2026

• Dare County Airport Authority
• Dare County Game and Wildlife Commission
• Wanchese Community Center Board

August 2026

• A.B.C. Board
• Virginia S. Tillett Community Center Advisory Board

September 2026

• Health & Human Services Board
• Transportation Advisory Board

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, and once an application is submitted to the Clerk to the Dare County Board of Commissioners, it will remain on file for three years. View a full listing of current vacancies, and access the online application.

For more information, please contact Clerk to the Dare County Board of Commissioners Skyler Foley at Skyler.Foley@DareNC.gov or 252-475-5700. 

View a PDF of the full agenda packet for the Dare County Board of Commissioners meeting that was held at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. View a video of the meeting on Dare County’s YouTube channel.