Nikolai Mather
ReporterNikolai Mather is a Report for America corps member from Pittsboro, North Carolina. He covers rural communities in Pender County, Brunswick County and Columbus County. He graduated from UNC Charlotte with degrees in genocide studies and political science. Prior to his work with WHQR, he covered religion in Athens, Georgia and local politics in Charlotte, North Carolina. In his spare time, he likes working on cars and playing the harmonica. You can reach him at nmather@whqr.org.
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On March 15th, the Columbus County Board of Elections made a crucial decision about the May primary via email — but didn’t notify the public first. WHQR spoke to Joseph Williams of the News Reporter in Whiteville about this potential violation of state laws regarding public notifications of official government meetings.
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After coach Pete Smith's contract was not renewed, parents began calling for his reinstatement. The school district is now looking into it, with a tentative report due date set for late April.
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Hundreds of people showed up for a Leland mayor and council meeting last night to protest an "unbelievable" budget proposal. If passed, residents would see a 70% property tax increase.
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On Thursday, the Leland town council will be holding a public meeting to hear feedback on the proposed 70% property tax hike. WHQR dives into the reasons behind the tax hike and the impacts it would have on locals.
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The Brunswick County Board of Elections granted candidacy to Fulton, who collected over 5,222 signatures advocating for his candidacy.
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Incumbents Jackie Newton, Phil Cordeiro and Fred McCoy all lost seats on Super Tuesday.
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Frank Williams and Pat Sykes win, Dana Varnam takes Register of Deeds nom, plus Bald Head Island approves beach bonds.
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After several precincts reported technical difficulties, deputy director Theressa Lewis said that Election Day is still proceeding as usual.
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Cordeiro, whose opponent declined an interview, talks discipline, spending and book bans.
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Pat Sykes and Jwantana Gardner-Frink compete for the Republican nomination. Meanwhile, Bob Fulton hopes to secure enough signatures to be on the ballot in November.