For years, the small Brunswick County town of Navassa has struggled with tax collection and budgeting issues. As WHQR reports, financial transparency continues to be a problem, and Thursday's August 21st Council meeting drew some heated discussion.
The tension began when Councilman James Hardy -- who’s also the town’s appointed financial officer -- tried to add an agenda item to the meeting. He wanted access to the town’s books.
“From my years of experience working in the banking sector, I did see some things that caught my eye. And I am simply asking for the Council to give me the tools to ensure that Navassa remains sound and also continues to have a balanced budget.”
Councilwoman Minnie Brown didn’t think this was appropriate:
“Well, I don’t see fit for you to need it. Why do you need that?”
That motion passed but other financial questions were raised. Councilman William Ballard challenged Mayor Eulis Willis, who’s held office for fourteen years, about the mayor’s payments -- or non-payments -- for sewer tipping fees on his properties.
In other business, the town approved a contract with Brunswick County to conduct their building inspections, and a grant application for funds to rehabilitate modular and stick-built houses.
Click here for information on the Town's Council.