On March 6, 2025, William E. Kearney II reached a significant milestone by graduating from the esteemed Excellence in Government Fellows Program.

“My inspiration to apply for the Excellence in Government Fellows Program comes from a deep-seated passion for public service and a desire to drive meaningful change within government institutions,” Kearney shared. “I was drawn to the program’s emphasis on leadership development, collaboration, and innovation, which align perfectly with my goals of enhancing my skills and contributing to effective governance.”

Throughout the 10-month fellowship through the Partnership for Public Service, Kearney engaged in intensive workshops, seminars, and hands-on projects addressing critical governmental challenges. Collaborating with a diverse cohort of fellows nationwide, he gained valuable insights into effective governance and policy implementation.

A proud native of Warrenton, North Carolina, Kearney is the son of Doris Kearney and the late William E. Kearney. His passion for public service began at Warren County High School, where he graduated in 2002. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Winston-Salem State University and a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Southern New Hampshire University.

Beyond academics, Kearney has exemplified leadership and dedication through his service as a United States Army veteran. His commitment to public service continues in his current role as a Lead Investigator for the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, where he helps ensure the integrity and effectiveness of food assistance programs nationwide.

An active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Kearney remains dedicated to fostering community service and mentorship.

“Completing the program means a great deal to me,” Kearney reflected. “It signifies not only the achievement of personal and professional growth but also a commitment to serving my community with greater effectiveness. The knowledge, insights, and connections gained through the program equip me to address complex challenges in the public sector and inspire others to do the same. It reinforces my dedication to fostering a more responsive and accountable government that truly meets the needs of its citizens.”

With the expertise gained from the Excellence in Government Fellowship, Kearney is well-positioned to address pressing federal issues and advocate for policies that directly impact rural communities. His unwavering commitment to public service reflects his drive to create meaningful, lasting change.

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Over 50 community stakeholders consisting of business owners, educators, elected officials, and industry leaders met for good eats and good discussion at the Warren County Industry and Education Breakfast on Feb. 26.

Hosted by the Warren County Community and Economic Development team, the event was held in the Warren County Armory Civic Center and provided a unique opportunity for fellow business leaders, educators, and key stakeholders to connect and discuss shaping the future of workforce readiness in Warren County.

Special guest speaker, Brett Brenton of MyFutureNC presented key information about Warren County to further guide attendees in how they can bridge the gap between industry needs and educational opportunities.

Minds were opened, business cards were exchanged, and potential collaborations were born.

We look forward to seeing how these new and renewed connections will flourish in our community, specifically for the betterment of our next generation.

[See image gallery at warrenist.com]
Photo Credit: Crystal Myrick / Warrenist

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[WAKE FOREST, NC] The Town of Wake Forest is pleased to announce Julius Jefferson as its Interim Police Chief. Jefferson, who had served as Captain since 2020, succeeds Jeff Leonard who retired February 1.

A Warren County native and WCHS graduate (1992), Jefferson began his career with the Wake County Sheriff’s Office in 1996 as a Detention Officer. In 1999 he was promoted to Detention Sergeant, a position he held until starting Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) at Vance-Granvile Community College in January 2006. He graduated from BLET later that year.

In September 2006, Jefferson began working with the Wake Forest Police Department as a Patrol Officer. Since then, he has worked as a Patrol Sergeant, Impact Sergeant, Traffic Sergeant, Impact Lieutenant, and Impact Captain. He has also served on the Wake County Traffic Safety Task Force.

Jefferson earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Vance-Granville Community College in 1996 and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from UNC Pembroke in 2023. He attended the 69th session of the Administrative Officers Management Program through NC State in 2014, FBI-LEEDA Trilogy (Executive Leadership, Command Leadership, and Supervisor Leadership) 2020-21, FBI Command College in 2022, and Ethical Leadership and Leadership on the Line in 2023.

When he’s not working, Jefferson enjoys watching movies, carpentry, and attending car shows.

“Julius Jefferson’s experience and community knowledge make him the perfect person to succeed Chief Leonard,” said Town Manager Kip Padgett. “He is highly capable and highly respected. He has also demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout his career with the Wake Forest Police Department. I am confident he is the right person to serve as our Interim Chief.”

A permanent police chief will be named later this year following a comprehensive search process.

Source: Wake Forest Police Department Facebook

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Warren County has unveiled an exciting new initiative to help residents understand and engage with local government: The Peoples Academy.

The Peoples Academy is a new and exciting citizen education program designed to provide residents and business owners in Warren County with an in-depth understanding of how local government works and how they can get involved in their community.

The free, 8-week academy offers a series of interactive sessions, guided tours, and discussions that will cover a wide range of topics, including local government structure, public safety, recreation, economic development, and much more. You’ll have the chance to meet local officials, ask questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the important decisions being made in your own backyard.

Why Join Peoples Academy?

* Gain Valuable Knowledge: Learn how local government operates and understand how decisions impact your community.
* Get Involved: Become a more informed and active participant in shaping the future of Warren County.
* Build Connections: Network with fellow citizens and public officials who share a passion for positive change.
* Hands-On Experience: Attend behind-the-scenes tours and see the systems in action.

How It Works: The Peoples Academy is a free program, open to all who live or work in Warren County. Upon completion, graduates will receive a certificate and be encouraged to stay involved through various volunteer opportunities and leadership roles within the community.

Sign up now for the upcoming session and become a part of Warren County’s first-ever Peoples Academy!

Register here for Peoples Academy.

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Warren County has been selected as one of fourteen teams in the state to participate in “Our State, Our Homes”, the fifth and final project of the Carolina Across 100 Initiative through the University of North Carolina and NC Impact.

Participating communities will emerge from the eighteen-month program with a data-driven understanding of housing issues in their local contexts, high-impact tools to facilitate community conversations around housing needs, detailed understanding of local partners and assets, and increased knowledge and capacity to implement innovative strategies for improving housing affordability. In addition, teams will receive coaching, technical assistance with innovation projects and opportunities to build relationships with peer communities as well as national, state, and campus-based housing experts across the state.

Rose Ponton, Community Development Manager with Warren County Community and Economic Development, will serve as county staff lead on the initiative.

“Affordable and workforce housing are critical to the future of Warren County,” said Rose Ponton, Community Development Manager for Warren County. “By collaborating with UNC’s Carolina Across 100 Initiative and leveraging our local partnerships, we are taking proactive steps to address these challenges and build a stronger community.”

In 2024, the North Carolina Housing Coalition reports that 32% of Warren County households are considered cost-burdened by housing costs (2,248 households in the county). Warren County ranks #42 in the state in housing evictions (with #1 being the highest). The coalition reports that 24% of homeowners and 54% of renters had difficulty affording their homes in 2024.

“Warren County Community and Economic Development has launched a new focus on housing for the county organization in the last year,” stated Community and Economic Development Director, Charla Duncan.

“Selection for the Our State, Our Homes initiative is our second win in this recent focus, coming on the heels of being awarded a $950,000 CDBG grant for housing renovations.”

“These initiatives aren’t going to be magic wands for us and our housing challenges, but we are eager to start laying some important foundations for the future of our existing and future residents,” stated Duncan.

Warren County is partnering with local organizations Working Landscapes and Warren Ministries United to drive this initiative forward. This core working group will attend several in-person forums over the next year and a half to strengthen efforts by integrating local expertise, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and implementing innovative housing strategies to provide accessible housing options, enhance quality of life, and support economic growth. All associated costs are covered by the initiative.

In addition to work done directly with the Carolina Across 100 staff and other working groups selected from across the state, Warren County will engage stakeholders from across the community to identify priorities, explore innovative solutions, and work to develop actionable strategies. Residents, community leaders, and organizations with a vested interest in affordable and workforce housing in the county are encouraged to get involved.

To learn more about the Our State, Our Homes project, visit https://carolinaacross100.unc.edu/program5/.

To stay informed about upcoming stakeholder engagement events or to share your insights, please contact Rose Ponton with Community and Economic Development by sending an email to roseponton@warrencountync.gov.

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The City of Henderson is pleased to announce the appointment of Hassan T. Kingsberry, Esq. as the new City Manager, effective January 13th, 2024. A majority of the Henderson City Council chose Mr. Kingsberry to lead the city into its next chapter of growth and success.

Mr. Kingsberry brings nearly a decade of experience in municipal government and a proven track record of delivering results that benefit local governments, residents, and businesses. He also has provided legal counsel and practiced law for almost two decades as well as served as an educator in the Kerr-Tar region.

Mayor Melissa Elliott confidently welcomed Hassan Kingsberry as the new City Manager, declaring, “Exciting developments are on the horizon for the City of Henderson!”

Councilwoman Geraldine Champion expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment: “Throughout the selection process, Mr. Kingsberry’s resume was impressive, and while many other candidates were strong, his qualifications particularly aligned with what the City of Henderson needs in a city manager. We are confident in his ability to lead Henderson toward a brighter future.”

Council Members Ola Thorpe-Cooper, Michael Venable and Tami Walker emphasized the importance of collaboration under Hassan Kingsberry’s leadership: “We’re excited to work alongside Mr. Kingsberry to serve our residents and make Henderson a city where everyone can thrive.”

Hassan Kingsberry also shared his excitement about joining the Henderson team: “As one who grew up on 520 Whitten Avenue, I am honored to serve as City Manager for the City of Henderson. I look forward to collaborating with the City Council, staff, and community to achieve our shared goals and create opportunities for peace, prosperity, and progress.”

As City Manager, Hassan Kingsberry will oversee the day-to-day operations of Henderson’s government, manage its budget, and work closely with the City Council to implement strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for all Henderson residents.

Prior to his recent appointment, Kingsberry stepped in as Interim City Attorney for Henderson on Dec. 5 of this year. Before, he served as the Town Attorney for Wake Forest, NC and was the County Attorney for Warren County, 2017-2022.

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The Warren County Parks and Recreation Department and the Parks and Recreation Commission are offering a mini-grant application process to support community partners to facilitate the development and support recreation amenities for Warren County residents at satellite locations. Recipients must be non-profit organizations located within Warren County.

The grant application is available on the Warren County Parks and Recreation website
https://www.warrencountync.com/345/Parks-Recreation or physical copy from the Parks and Recreation
Department at 113 Wilcox Street, Warrenton, NC 27589.

All applications must be submitted and received by 5:00 p.m. on February 28, 2025. Submitted requests may not exceed $10,000.

Applications should be submitted by:
* Email: christopherwilliams@warrencountync.gov OR
* In person: Warren County Parks and Recreation Office at 113 Wilcox Street, Warrenton, NC
27589 (not a mailing address) OR
* Mail: Warren County Parks and Recreation, Attn: Christopher Williams, PO Box 835, Warrenton,
NC 27589

For more information, contact Christopher Williams, Parks and Recreation Interim Director at 252-257-
2272 or parksandrecreation@warrencountync.gov.

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Warren County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on October 7, 2024 to appoint Crystal Smith as County Manager.

Crystal Smith served over 27 years with North Carolina Cooperative Extension, beginning in the 4H program at Warren County Cooperative Extension. Throughout her career with North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Smith worked with 4H in Granville and Franklin Counties and served as the Hertford County Cooperative Extension Director before returning to Warren County Cooperative Extension as the Director in 2012. Smith retired from North Carolina Cooperative Extension in May 2023. In September 2023, Smith returned to Warren County to serve as the Senior Assistant to the County Manager and was appointed Interim County Manager in February 2024 after previous manager Vincent Jones resigned.

For more information, contact the Warren County Manager’s Office at 252-257-3115 or visit the website at warrencountync.com.

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Warren County will hold a public engagement event on Friday, September 13th, from 6-8 pm on the Warren County Courthouse Square in downtown Warrenton. The goal of this event is to seek input on what residents would like to see in a future community center. This floating event will take place during the 2024 Warren County High School homecoming meet-and-greet.

In 2023, Warren County purchased forty acres on US Hwy 158 Business between Warrenton and Norlina as the future site of a community center and civic complex. The county recently launched its feasibility and initial design work on the project.

For more information about this event, please contact Warren County administration office at 252-257-3115 or email Charla Duncan at charladuncan@warrencountync.gov.

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The NC Rural Center has opened the application period for its Rural Economic Development Institute (REDI), the organization’s flagship leadership development program. Current and emerging leaders across the state are invited to apply.

Since its founding in 1990, the three-month intensive training program has helped nearly 1,200 people develop skills and increase their knowledge of economic and community development strategies, equipping them with the tools they need to tackle challenges in their rural communities.

“Rural communities need strong leadership to thrive,” said Olaunda Green, director of leadership training at the Rural Center. “We’re proud to provide training opportunities that not only equip established leaders but also emerging leaders who will greatly impact the future of rural North Carolina.”

Each year REDI welcomes local, state, and federal government staff, nonprofit and faith-based leaders, business owners, elected officials, economic development professionals, and other community-minded people for nine days of intensive rural community economic development training. Graduates of REDI join an extensive alumni network that spans all of North Carolina’s 100 counties and includes graduates from the Rural Center’s other leadership training program, Homegrown Leaders. Many of the Center’s leadership alumni are active in state and local government, and in philanthropic, nonprofit, and small-business sectors, as well as in faith and community-based organizations.

Applications will be available on the REDI webpage and accepted through September 15.

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