Good morning Wilmington!

A major voter roll review in North Carolina is drawing attention nationwide. The State Board of Elections reports it has identified about 34,000 deceased individuals still listed in voter registration records following a federal database cross-check.

While officials stress this is part of routine maintenance—not evidence of improper voting—it underscores the ongoing work required to keep election systems accurate and current.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• Senate Bill Targets 2026 Revaluation Freeze

• NC Elections Board Identifies 34,000 Deceased Individuals on Voter Rolls

Property Tax Relief? Senate Bill Targets 2026 Revaluation Freeze

WECT North Carolina lawmakers are reviewing a Senate bill that would suspend 2026 property tax revaluations, mirroring a recent move by Pender County commissioners. Supporters say the pause could provide relief amid rising property values and tax concerns, while critics warn it may delay necessary updates that reflect true market conditions and impact local government funding decisions.

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NC Elections Board Identifies 34,000 Deceased Individuals on Voter Rolls

WECT North Carolina election officials identified about 34,000 deceased individuals still listed on voter rolls after comparing state data with a federal database. The discovery came during an effort to verify voter eligibility and improve record accuracy. Officials emphasized this does not indicate fraudulent voting but highlights the need for regular maintenance of voter lists. The State Board of Elections plans to verify the records and work with county officials to remove confirmed cases while ensuring compliance with state and federal laws.

Read More >>

News Roundup

Local News

Dune planting efforts are underway on Oak Island to strengthen coastal protection. Crews and volunteers are installing vegetation to stabilize sand and reduce erosion ahead of hurricane season. WECT

North Carolina now ranks 46th in the nation for teacher pay. The latest data highlights ongoing concerns about educator retention and funding as schools compete nationally for talent. WUNC

H2GO is urging customers to cut back on water use due to ongoing drought conditions. Officials say reduced rainfall and increasing demand are straining supply, and voluntary conservation now could help avoid stricter restrictions later. WECT

What You Should Know

A reported gift exchange tied to Donald Trump and King Charles is drawing attention ahead of a state dinner. The gesture highlights ongoing diplomatic relations between the U.S. and U.K., with political and symbolic undertones being closely watched. The Independent

Federal agents are conducting raids tied to a large-scale Somali fraud investigation. Authorities say the operation targets an alleged network involved in financial crimes, with multiple locations searched. NBC News

Former FBI Director James Comey has been indicted again in a separate federal case. Details remain limited, but the development adds to ongoing legal scrutiny surrounding his post-FBI activities. The Guardian

What Might Surprise You

The State Department has introduced new U.S. passports commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. A mockup of the redesign incorporates historical imagery and themes celebrating the nation’s founding and features an image of Donald Trump. Fox News

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