BY MILES LAYTON

HERTFORD — It was a night filled with emotion, gratitude, and forward-looking optimism as the Perquimans County Board of Commissioners gathered Monday evening to conduct business and celebrate the people who serve the community with distinction—from a Navy firefighter recognized for heroic disaster relief to a rising student leader working to protect her peers.

The meeting was one of the most meaningful of the year, according to commissioners, who praised the blend of community recognition, civic engagement, and progress on infrastructure needs.

Tex Mitchell: Firefighter of the Year

In what became the emotional centerpiece of the evening, Gary Kollmann, Adjutant of American Legion Post 126, presented the 2024 North Carolina Firefighter of the Year Award to Tex Mitchell, a member of the Winfall Volunteer Fire Department and a U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer. This award isn’t just about dedication—it’s about sacrifice, integrity, and quiet heroism. Mitchell embodies those values.

Mitchell, who remains on active duty in the Navy, has responded to more calls over the last year than any other member of the Winfall department. Despite his military responsibilities, he found time to complete all the state-mandated firefighter certification training and continued to show up—for both his firehouse and his community.

Kollmann shared detailed accounts of Mitchell’s remarkable service during hurricane relief efforts in western North Carolina. Mitchell helped elderly residents trapped in their homes due to downed trees, delivered critical supplies to isolated families, and even hiked nearly five miles up, bushwhacking/cutting a trail up a mountain to check on residents living off the grid. In addition to restoring contact, he made temporary repairs to generators and cleared roads for first responders.

“Tex always stays calm, focused, and alert during crisis situations,” said Kollmann. “He’s exactly who you’d want on the scene in an emergency.”

Mitchell’s service didn’t stop with firefighting. He played a central role in local ministries, including volunteering with Soul Hunters, helping cook and serve meals at a wild game fundraiser that raised over $10,000 for scholarships. He also distributed school supplies to local elementary students and led youth archery classes.

Applause filled the room as Mitchell was presented with a commemorative plaque by the American Legion. Kollmann emphasized that this wasn’t just a local recognition—Mitchell’s nomination had been reviewed and approved at the state level by the American Legion of North Carolina.

“This recognition is more than earned,” Kollmann said. “It’s the least we can do to honor someone who has done so much for so many.”

Youth Delegate Inspires with Message of Hope and Action

The meeting shifted from honoring seasoned service to celebrating future leadership when Jared Harrell, Perquimans County Extension Director, introduced Whitney White, the county’s delegate to the NCACC Youth Voice Conference this summer.

White, a rising freshman at Perquimans County High School, brought her own brand of inspiration as she addressed the board and community. She shared her deep involvement in athletics, 4-H, the Beta Club, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, as well as her role as secretary of the Student Government Association.

But her speech went beyond personal achievements.

“While we are lucky to live in such a tight a close-knit and supportive community, we are not immune to the challenges that impact youth across our state and nation,” she said. “I believe one of the best ways to combat those challenges is through positive engagement. Programs like 4-H school sports, student government, and youth leadership clubs help provide structures, support, and a strong sense of belonging. When young people feel seen valued, and connected, they are more likely to make good decisions and more likely to become the leaders tomorrow.”

White invited the board and community members to a Youth Involvement Breakfast on Saturday, August 9, designed to showcase young leaders and provide space for intergenerational dialogue.

“Your presence shows us that you care about our future,” she said. “When young people feel seen and valued, they are more likely to lead tomorrow.”

Updates on School Maintenance and Safety

Jamie Johnson, Maintenance Director for Perquimans County Schools, then updated the board on several summer projects designed to improve student safety and school readiness.

Top among his requests was approval to use up to $150,000 in state lottery funds to replace the playground at Perquimans Central School.

“This is about safety and accessibility,” said Johnson. “We want every child to have access to equipment that meets current safety standards.”

He also requested around $113,000 from the North Carolina Public School Repair and Renovation Fund to upgrade fire alarm systems at all four public schools in the county.

“These systems are outdated and must be replaced to ensure compliance and improve our emergency preparedness,” Johnson said.

Election Office Transition Underway

County Manager Frank Heath informed the board that Election Director Jackie Greene had officially resigned.

Heath said the county is coordinating with the county’s Board of Elections to support the local board in selecting a new director.

“We’ve been working with the Board of Elections, offering our help in choosing the next director, so when they meet again in July, we’ve offered to be an asset,” he said.

911 Center Bid Opening and Other Capital Projects

Heath also shared that a joint bid opening with Gates County for a new 911 emergency call center would take place Tuesday at 2 p.m.

“We’re hoping the bids come in on budget,” he said. “Assuming they do, we’ll bring final documents to the board at your next meeting.”

The proposal also includes funding for a roof replacement at the EMS station, part of the county’s broader capital improvement plan.

Last thing, Heath said tax collection rates in the county are around 96 percent.