Ask a Journalist

Q: Why does it seem like container traffic has slowed down at the Port? Are there long-term concerns about the downturn, and does it impact plans to dredge the Cape Fear River?A: The Port saw significantly fewer cargo containers this past fiscal year due to waning consumer sentiment, Trump’s tariffs, and shake-ups in shipping routes. But officials remain bullish on the future — and the dredging project.

Q: Is North Carolina’s film grant program out of money?A: No — not exactly. The program is still getting $31 million annually, and all the current grants are fully funded. However, the program has depleted a reserve fund left over from past years, meaning new applications might have to wait for disbursements.

The Eastwood overpass or 'flyover' project addresses a notoriously slow intersection, but residents have voiced concerns over the timing, safety, and efficacy of the $81.4 million project. That includes many who have moved to the area in the seven years since NCDOT held its last public hearing on the project.

Q: What's up with the county employee posted outside the New Hanover County building at 320 Chestnut Street?A: After contractors were found parking in spots reserved for county staff, the employee was temporarily assigned to monitor the lot.

For most local governments, budget negotiations are underway, as elected officials hash out details, and figure out what that means for their bottom lines. In our latest edition of Ask a Journalist, WHQR’s Ben Schachtman and Kelly Kenoyer answer the question: what’s going on with local taxes?

Question: What’s going on with law enforcement training on CFCC’s North Campus?Answer: We know there are many taking place, but – to be honest – it’s been hard to get more information.

On Monday, New Hanover County commissioners will vote to add $1 million in funding to help the City of Wilmington purchase a new park. For the edition of Ask a Journalist, WHQR’s Ben Schachtman and Rachel Keith tackle some questions about the plan.

A 90-day pilot project installed in 2023 has stuck around for two years.

Questions: Wait, the city hired a chief of staff? Is that a new position? Whose idea was this, and what does the new hire do? How much are they paid — and where is the money coming from after June’s tight budget negotiations?Short answers: Yes, the new city manager identified the need for a chief of staff to help execute her vision for the city’s leadership team; staff vacancies have freed up funding for the $195,000 salary.

WHQR's 'Ask a Journalist' is a simple concept that tackles occasionally complicated issues! We take listener questions and track down the answers. If you have a question you’d like answered, email us at staffnews@whqr.org.