NEW HANOVER COUNTY — The New Hanover County Democratic and the New Hanover County Republican Party announced their joint support for the $320.5 million New Hanover County Schools bond referendum that will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot.
NHC Democratic Party Chair Jill Hopman and NHC Republican Party Chair John Hinnant released a joint statement on Wednesday:
“Every county has moments that call for collaboration, regardless of political affiliation, to address what matters most. This is one of those moments. Our families expect it. And our community requires it. It reflects months of bipartisan work, thoughtful financial planning, and a shared commitment to transparency and accountability. We believe this proposal represents a responsible investment in our students, our taxpayers, and the future of New Hanover County. We encourage every voter to learn about the referendum, review the facts, and join us in voting YES on the New Hanover County Schools bond this November.”
The $320.5-million bond includes the first phase of New Hanover High School repairs and additions, a new building at Trask Middle School, a new school facility in Riverlights to replace Mary C. Williams Elementary, a replacement of Pine Valley Elementary and an addition to Porters Neck Elementary. The bond also includes district-wide upgrades in building infrastructure, safety and technology.
The New Hanover Community Endowment has announced a $116-million grant to the county to help offset the tax rate impact resulting from the bond. This is contingent upon the bond passing via voter referendum in November.
The bipartisan endorsement follows months of bipartisan collaboration among elected officials, school leaders, county staff, and community stakeholders to identify the district’s highest-priority capital needs; a key part of this effort has been the district’s Finance, Capital, and Bond Joint Committee. It brings together members of the board of education, county commission, administrators at the county and district and business leaders in the community.
Both parties emphasized that their support reflects confidence in the planning process, financial oversight, and the long-term value these investments will provide for students, teachers, families, employers, and taxpayers.
Hopman said further:
“Every child, no matter their zip code, deserves a safe, modern place to learn. Too many of our students are in facilities that fall short of that standard, and this referendum is how we start to fix it. The planning was rigorous, the oversight is real, and the Endowment partnership makes this a fiscally responsible path forward. Democrats believe that public education offers every family in New Hanover County a better and brighter future. Our community is ready for this investment, and we are proud to support it.”
Hinnant also said:
“Republicans believe government should be accountable, transparent, and focused on its core responsibilities. As a member of the Committee, we’ve seen meaningful improvements in financial oversight, long-term planning, and communication between the school district and county government. After reviewing the facts, we believe this bond represents a responsible investment in essential public infrastructure while recognizing the New Hanover Community Endowment’s commitment to reduce the burden on local taxpayers. We encourage voters to join us in supporting this referendum. This referendum touches every public school in New Hanover County. Education is the first, and most important element of an Economic Development Strategy. Schools represent the infrastructure we need to make sure we prepare students for their role as responsible citizens.”
More information about the bond can be found here.
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