SWAN QUARTER, N.C. – The Hyde County Board of Commissioners meeting on October 6th in Swan Quarter was a night of heartfelt goodbyes, high praise for longtime service, and an exciting look at initiatives designed to strengthen the local economy and educational future. The session focused on celebrating the retirements of two employees, Daniel Brinn and Hugh Watson, and introducing important community-focused projects.
Decades of Dedicated Service
The evening kicked off with emotional tributes to two individuals whose specialized knowledge and commitment have profoundly impacted Hyde County: Hugh Watson and Daniel Brinn.
Hugh Watson: The Septic System Savior
After more than 30 years with the Hyde County Health Department, Hugh Watson was celebrated for his retirement. Health Director Luana Gibbs highlighted the immense challenge Watson overcame: navigating the state’s strict septic system rules, which were often at odds with the county’s unique soil conditions.
Before Watson, the county was forced to contract expensive, out-of-county sanitarians who rejected nearly every permit application, threatening the local economy. Watson, a former commercial fisherman, was credited with having the “backbone, passion, and integrity” to work with experts from NC State University to develop innovative, legal solutions. His efforts were deemed “vital for the economy,” as they allowed people, particularly on Ocracoke, to build and develop property, ensuring the tax base didn’t “dry up.”
Daniel Brinn: The ‘Water Czar’ Moves On
The board also paid tribute to Daniel Brinn, who is transitioning to a regional role with the N.C. Department of Transportation (DOT). Brinn was affectionately called the “water czar” due for his unsurpassed, multi-generational knowledge of the county’s land and drainage.
Speakers praised his intelligence, thoughtful insights on the Coastal Resources Advisory Council (CRAC), and his capacity to bring “joy” to the workplace. Although the county will miss his daily presence, Brinn will continue to serve local citizens in his new regional capacity, underscoring his deep love for his Hyde County home.
Investing in Infrastructure and Youth
The meeting also included updates on critical infrastructure and new programs aimed at strengthening the community from the ground up.
Public Safety Project at the Davis Center
Outgoing staffer Brinn highlighted the successful completion of a drainage project at the Davis Center in Engelhard. Using a $13,000 grant from the Albemarle Resource Conservation District (ARCD) along with matching county funds, the project addressed a failing drainage system. This work eliminated a serious public safety concern posed by exposed box culverts and inlets, an often-unseen success story of local governmental efficiency.
Hyde County Schools Launches Community-Focused Programs
Superintendent Melanie Shaver (Superintendent) and Community Schools Coordinator Angie Kerr introduced two new, engaging initiatives.
- Community Schools Initiative: Kerr, working through a five-year grant, presented the Community Schools model. This initiative aims to address non-academic barriers to learning, such as a lack of food, shelter, or healthcare, by integrating community resources directly into the school. The goal is to strengthen family engagement and student performance by making the school the central hub for whole child, whole family, and whole community support. A prime example is the new, free telehealth service, allowing students and staff to be tested for basic illnesses right at the nurse’s office.
- America’s 250 NC County Flag Challenge: To foster civic pride and connection to local history, the Hyde County America’s 250 group is sponsoring a challenge for fourth-grade students. Students are encouraged to design a unique county flag and write an essay explaining its meaning, giving them a chance to leave a lasting mark on their community.