We are proud to share that Executive Director Lee Worsley has been named a Government Champion, a national recognition celebrating outstanding public service.

Presented through Local Gov 250 in partnership with the National Academy of Public Administration, this honor highlights individuals across all levels of government who exemplify “democracy at the doorstep” through dedication, innovation, and meaningful community impact.

This recognition is part of the broader America 250 celebration, a nationwide effort to honor the role of government as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. Through storytelling and recognition, Local Gov 250 is elevating the contributions of public servants who continue to shape strong, vibrant communities.

Lee’s leadership and commitment to regional collaboration make him a deserving recipient of this distinction. Please join us in congratulating him on this well-earned honor!

The Economic Development Administration (EDA) has released a new funding opportunity (PWEAA NOFO) outlining how to apply for two of its core programs: Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA).

The Public Works program supports communities in upgrading and expanding infrastructure to attract new businesses, encourage growth, and create or retain jobs.

The EAA program offers flexible funding to help regions respond to economic challenges—whether from industry decline, natural disasters, or other major disruptions. Support can include planning, infrastructure, and implementation of local economic development strategies, as well as access to capital for small businesses.

EAA also includes Disaster Relief and Recovery funding to support communities rebuilding after major disasters. Communities impacted by Chantel may now be eligible for a significantly reduced cost share (up to 80%) of federal dollars.

Learn more and access the full application details at the link below. You can also contact the Grant Assistance Team at grantassistance@centralpinesnc.gov if you need help.

Wednesday, April 8

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Central Pines Regional Council & Virtual

Central Pines Regional Council (CPRC) will host a hybrid Electric School Bus Academy Workshop on April 8 from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM to engage school districts across the region in strategies for electrifying their bus fleets. The workshop will provide an overview of electric school buses, charging infrastructure, funding opportunities, and key planning considerations for districts exploring fleet electrification. A follow-up virtual support session on April 15 will be offered for districts seeking additional technical assistance and guidance on next steps.

This event will be hybrid. When you register, choose either in-person or virtual to let us know how you will be attending.

The North Carolina Environmental Management Commission will hold three public hearings to receive public comment on proposed rules for monitoring and minimizing three PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, in wastewater discharged into North Carolina’s surface waters. The hearings are part of a comment period that began on March 16.  

Public Hearing Details:

Asheville Public Hearing

When: 6 p.m., April 7, 2026 

Where: Ferguson Auditorium, AB-Tech Community College, 19 Tech Drive, Asheville, N.C., 28801 

Register: Sign-in and speaker registration will begin at 5 p.m. 

Raleigh Public Hearing

When: 6 p.m., April 20, 2026 

Where: Archdale Building, Ground Floor Hearing Room, 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, N.C., 27604 

Register: Sign-in and speaker registration will begin at 5 p.m. 

Parking information: Public parking will be available after 5 p.m. at Parking Deck 64, which is located across North Salisbury Street from the Archdale Building.

Wilmington Public Hearing

When: 6 p.m., April 23, 2026 

Where: Wilmington City Hall at Skyline Center, 1st Floor Conference Center, 929 North Front St., Wilmington, 28401 

Register: Sign-in and speaker registration will begin at 5 p.m.  

In addition to accepting comments at the hearings, written comments may also be submitted by email to publiccomments@deq.nc.gov with the subject title “PFAS minimization” through June 15. Written comments may also be submitted by mail to: Karen Preston, DEQ-DWR NPDES Permitting Section, 1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1617.