On the agenda: Hope Mills meeting — data center (Jun 1)

MAYOR
Jessie Bellflowers
MAYOR PRO TEM
Hope Page
TOWN MANAGER
Chancer McLaughlin

TOWN BOARD
Cynthia Hamilton
Bryan Marley
Lisa Tremmel
Grilley Mitchell
TOWN CLERK
Ashley Wyatt

TOWN OF HOPE MILLS BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Meeting Agenda June 1, 2026
7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting
CALL TO ORDER – Mayor Jessie Bellflowers
INVOCATION – Reverend Bobby Herring
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Mayor Jessie Bellflowers
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA – ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS.
2. OFFICIAL COMMENTS.
a. Manager’s Report
b. Board Member Comments
3. PRESENTATIONS
a. Proclamation Recognizing Gun Violence Awareness (TAB 1)
b.
-

Board Chair Committee Reports
Appearance Commission
Cultural Arts Committee
Historic Preservation Commission
Homelessness Advisory Committee
Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee
Prime Movers Committee
Veteran Affairs Committee

4. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Each speaker is asked to limit comments to three (3) minutes, and the total comment period will
be 30 minutes or less. Citizens should sign up with the Town Clerk to speak prior to the start of
the meeting. Please direct comments to the full board, not to an individual board member or staff
member. Although the Board is interested in hearing your concerns, speakers should not expect
Board action or deliberation on subject matter brought up during the Public Comment segment.

Topics requiring further investigation will be referred to the appropriate town officials or staff
and may be scheduled for a future agenda.
5. CONSENT AGENDA:
a. Consideration and Approval of Special Meeting Minutes – May 11, 2026, Special
Meeting Minutes – May 18, 2026 and Regular Meeting Minutes- May 18, 2026 (TAB 2)
b. Consideration and Approval of Closed Session Meeting Minutes – April 30, 2026 (NO
ATTACHMENTS)
All items on the Consent Agenda are considered routine, to be enacted by one motion and without
discussion. If a member of the governing body requests discussion of an item, the item will be
removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately under New Business.
“END OF CONSENT AGENDA”
6. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
7. NEW BUSINESS:
a. Consideration and Approval of the audit contract for Sharpe Patel, CPA for FY 26-27 (scope
of work FY 25-26) and to authorize the Mayor and staff to sign the contract (TAB 3)
b. Consideration and Approval of Budget Amendment #30 to accept the N.C. Amateur Sports,
Youth Sports Grant Fund in the amount of $7,000 (TAB 4)
c. Consideration and discussion regarding residents serving on town commissions/committees
outside town limits, but within the Hope Mills Municipal Influence Area (NO
ATTACHMENTS)
8. LIAISONS UPDATE ON EXTERNAL COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
a.

Commissioner Bryan Marley - RLUAC (Regional Land Use Advisory Commission)

b. Commissioner Cynthia Hamilton –Cumberland County Air Quality Ambassadors Committee,
Cumberland County Continuum of Care Committee
c.

Mayor Pro Tem Hope Page –FAMPO TAC (Transportation Advisory Committee)

d.

Mayor Jessie Bellflowers – Mayor’s Coalition; Mid-Carolina Council of Governments;
FCEDC Municipal Advisory Meeting Liaison

9. CLOSED SESSION CALLED PURSUANT TO NCGS 143-318.11 (A) (3) ATTORNEY
CLIENT PRIVILEGE (A) (5) LAND ACQUISITION and (A) (6) PERSONNEL
10. INFORMATION ITEMS:
a. Reminders

-

Tuesday, June 2nd | Prime Movers Committee | VFW Post 10630, 3226 Davis Street in Hope
Mills, NC | 6:00pm
Monday, June 8th | Board of Commissioners Public Hearing | 5770 Rockfish Rd, Hope Mills,
NC | 7:00pm
Tuesday, June 9th | Homelessness Advisory Committee | VFW Post 10630, 3226 Davis Street
in Hope Mills, NC | 6:00pm
Wednesday, June 10th | Historic Preservation Commission | Thomas Campbell Oakman
Chapel, 3711 South Main Street, Hope Mills, NC | 6:00pm
Thursday, June 11th | Cultural Arts Committee | VFW Post 10630, 3226 Davis Street in Hope
Mills, NC | 6:30pm
Monday, June 15th |Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting| 5770 Rockfish Rd, Hope
Mills, NC | 7:00pm
Monday, June 22nd |Board of Commissioners Special Budget Workshop Meeting| 5770
Rockfish Rd, Hope Mills, NC | 4:00pm
Monday, June 22nd |Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee | VFW Post 10630, 3226
Davis Street in Hope Mills, NC | 6:30pm
Tuesday, June 23rd | Appearance Commission | VFW Post 10630, 3226 Davis Street in Hope
Mills, NC | 6:30pm
Thursday, June 25th | Veterans Affairs Commission | VFW Post 10630, 3226 Davis Street in
Hope Mills, NC | 6:00pm
Monday, June 29th |Board of Commissioners Special Meeting- Budget Adoption | 5770
Rockfish Rd, Hope Mills, NC | 7:00pm

11. STAFF COMMENTS.
12. ADJOURNMENT.

3

TAB 1

Proclamation for National Gun Violence Awareness Day
for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. – Tau Epsilon Zeta Chapter
WHEREAS, every day, in the United States, more than 325 people are shot, with over 100
tragically losing their lives; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Hope Mills and the Board of Commissioners have demonstrated a
commitment to studying the effects of gun violence in our local community; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Hope Mills in partnership with the Hope Mills Police Department and
neighboring communities, continues to foster positive relationships between law enforcement
and citizens through community engagement events such as National Night Out in an effort to
reduce gun violence and crime; and
WHEREAS, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Tau Epsilon Zeta Chapter chartered in Hope Mills,
North Carolina on May 31, 2003, is dedicated to extending the founding principles of the
sorority to Hope Mills and Cumberland County; and
WHEREAS, social action is a priority for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and they aim to inspire,
encourage, and empower the Sisterhood and take an active role in raising awareness on key
issues, including voter registration, mobilizing the community, and fostering relationships with
elected officials; and
WHEREAS, the Tau Epsilon Zeta Chapter continues to be an integral part of the Hope Mills
community, contributing to the town’s educational, civic, cultural and economic development;
and
WHEREAS, we honor the memory of those whose lives have been tragically taken by gun
violence and extend our deepest sympathy to their families and communities. We also stand in
solidarity with survivors as they continue to heal, while working towards a future of safety and
peace for all.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JESSIE BELLFLOWERS, MAYOR of the Town of Hope Mills,
North Carolina, do hereby proclaim June 6, 2026 as “Gun Violence Awareness Day” in Hope
Mills, North Carolina, and encourage all citizens to observe this day by reflecting on the
importance of reducing gun violence.
PROCLAIMED this day 1st day of June, 2026.

_______________________________
JESSIE BELLFLOWERS, MAYOR

TAB 2

MAYOR PRO TEM
Hope Page

TOWN BOARD
Cynthia Hamilton
Grilley Mitchell
Bryan Marley
Lisa Tremmel

TOWN MANAGER
Chancer McLaughlin

TOWN CLERK
Ashley Wyatt

MAYOR
Jessie Bellflowers

TOWN OF HOPE MILLS BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Meeting Agenda –May 11, 2026
5:30 p.m. Special Meeting
Mayor Bellflowers called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM and welcomed those in attendance.
STAFF PRESENT
Town Manager Chancer McLaughlin, Town Clerk Ashley Wyatt, Police Chief Stephen Dollinger,
Finance Director Brittany McLaurin, Building Official Kenny Tatum, Fire Chief Matt Cain, and
Human Resources Director Leeanne Carlucci.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bellflowers led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA – ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Page, seconded by Commissioner Mitchell, to move Closed Session to
Item 3 on the agenda, and carried unanimously.
DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED FY26-27 DEPARTMENTAL BUDGETS
Prior to beginning the budget workshop, Mayor Bellflowers offered several public corrections and
clarifications from the previous meeting. The Mayor apologized for allowing citizens to address
Commissioner Hamilton by name during public comment at the prior meeting. He then corrected
a statement made at the prior meeting in which it was said the Hope Mills Chamber of Commerce
had been evicted from its property. Lastly, he provided context regarding the state audit that began
in August 2025, initiated by anonymous complaints to the state auditor's tip line. He clarified that
four of the five current board members were not seated during the audit period and of the 23
allegations, 2 were substantiated, 3 were partially substantiated, and 18 were unsubstantiated.
He emphasized that each was a board-approved decision and that there was no malice,
misappropriation, or embezzlement involved.
Town Manager Chancer McLaughlin read into the record an email dated April 29, 2026, from
outgoing Finance Director Drew Holland. The email recommended: a 6-cent tax increase; avoiding
use of $653,000 in ARPA funds for recurring expenses; maintaining street department salaries in
the general fund; retaining a 2% COLA and 2% merit increase; and beginning to replenish fund
balance reserves by $300,000, as advised by the state auditor.
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INSPECTIONS
Building Official Kenny Tatum presented the department's budget, describing it as stripped, with
no new position or vehicle requests. The primary areas of funding were training and fuel. He
explained that multi-trade inspectors are required by the state to maintain certifications across four
trades — building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical — and that continuing education (Con
Ed) is mandated annually. He noted that his department consolidated vehicle use — having
multiple inspectors ride together when call volume was low — as a cost-saving practice, and that
switching from pickup trucks to midsize SUVs over recent years had significantly reduced fuel
consumption.
GOVERNING BODY/ ADMIN
Town Manager Chancer McLaughlin and Town Clerk Ashley Wyatt addressed several questions
about the Governing Body and Administration budgets.
Mr. McLaughlin clarified that the $45,000 in contract services under Governing Body had
historically been used for IT services. Under Administration, a $41,500 contract services line and
$18,500 professional services line both related to IT and grant administration through Witt
O'Brien. It was acknowledged that these two categories had been used interchangeably, a practice
the new Finance Director intends to correct by properly classifying expenditures going forward.
Ms. Wyatt advised the town originally received an initial $30,000 grant from the NC League of
Municipalities for grant writing services. The town has since funded additional rounds of $30,000.
In the proposed budget, only $30,000 is included — allocated strictly for reporting on currentlypursued grants, not for pursuing new grants, due to budget constraints. The full requested amount
was $60,000.
Mayor Bellflowers expressed a desire to fully fund the grant program, noting the return on
investment far exceeds the cost.
Commissioner Marley suggested reserving that discussion until the full budget picture is known.
Mayor Pro Tem Hope Page questioned whether a board retreat was necessary.
The board reached consensus to remove the $2,000 board retreat line item from the final budget.
Commissioner Mitchell raised concerns about the $40,000 allocated across eight committees at
$5,000 each, noting that historically committees received $1,200–$2,000 and rarely spent their full
allocations. He recommended reducing individual committee allocations and requiring
presentations to the board before expenditures are made. Town Manager McLaughlin noted that
the original committee requests totaled $107,000, which had already been cut to $40,000. The
board agreed to hold this as a placeholder pending review of the full budget.
Mayor Pro Tem Page questioned the $5,400 departmental supplies line, which was explained as
covering community event tables, food for meetings, and other incidentals. The $6,300 non-capital
equipment line was identified as an IT-specific request from contracted IT professional Chris Slate,
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related to network infrastructure improvements after the town experienced recurring firewall
issues. The board requested a more detailed itemization of that request.
Multiple board members and Finance Director McLaurin discussed the need for better
classification of expenditures and a dedicated contracts summary tab in the budget book, listing
all contract services and professional services by department.
FINANCE
Finance Director Brittany McLaurin presented the Finance Department budget, noting that no new
wants were included — only what is required to keep the department operational. She clarified the
distinction between professional services and contract services. Commissioner Hamilton requested
a breakdown of all items under contract services, and the Finance Director committed to providing
this.
HUMAN RESOURCES
HR Director Leeanne Carlucci presented the Human Resources budget, describing the contents as
largely carryovers from the prior year reflecting compliance and regulatory requirements, with no
new "wants."
Key line items discussed included:
●
CDL Program ($3,000): Added in the prior year to properly maintain DOT compliance
requirements for CDL-holding employees, including random drug testing and related regulatory
costs. This is not for obtaining licenses, but for employer-side maintenance of the program.
●
Drug Testing / Pre-Employment Screening: Two separate line items exist — one under the
CDL program for random compliance testing, and one for pre-employment screenings and workrelated injury testing.
●
Employee Engagement ($7,500): Commissioner Hamilton questioned whether teambuilding activities should be managed by individual departments rather than centralized in HR.
The Director explained that centralizing the function allows for cross-departmental events — such
as a day at Segra Stadium — that intentionally bring employees from different departments
together and are more equitable and coordinated.
●
P&A Group / TPA Fees: Clarified as third-party administrator fees for FSA and HRA
accounts.
On the broader topic of the pay study, Ms. Carlucci provided context. She expressed concern that
employees were leaving for higher pay at other agencies, while replacements were being hired at
higher starting salaries due to market conditions — a compounding problem that undermines
retention.
Commissioner Tremmel asked whether including Fayetteville in the pay study distorted results.
The HR Director and Town Manager explained that pay studies incorporated distance-weighted
municipalities and that Fayetteville, while geographically proximate, carries less proportional
weight alongside nine other municipalities.
Commissioner Hamilton referenced advice received at a League of Municipalities conference
suggesting that pay studies may be better calibrated by municipality size and population rather
than proximity to larger cities.
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FIRE DEPT
Fire Chief Matt Cain presented the Fire Department budget.
The Mayor highlighted that one firefighter position had been frozen for approximately seven years.
Town Manager McLaughlin confirmed that unfreezing the position effective July 1 would cost
approximately $67,131, or approximately $33,564 if effective January 1. The Chief noted that
NFPA standards required a minimum of 12 personnel per shift to staff two engines and a ladder
truck for typical fire responses, and that one shift currently operates below that minimum. He also
noted the position would help reduce overtime costs currently budgeted at $40,000. The Mayor
requested this item be bookmarked as a potential funding priority once the full budget picture is
reviewed.
A $100,000 capital outlay line item in the proposed budget was allocated for property acquisition
for a future fire substation, funded through ARPA. Town Manager McLaughlin confirmed the
remaining approximately $92,100 from a prior year's $100,000 allocation (of which $7,900 was
spent on surveys and appraisals) would be returned to ARPA and reallocated. The Mayor indicated
this matter would be taken up in closed session on May 18.
Commissioner Marley addressed the broader fiscal picture, noting that every department has had
positions frozen for years due to the board's policy of avoiding tax increases. He stated that the
town was approximately $3,000,000 structurally short in the proposed budget, that the fund
balance repayment from the audit had no funding in this budget, and that the pay study remained
largely unimplemented. He expressed that the board must begin to articulate to citizens about
incremental tax increases to fund basic operational needs and retain staff.
POLICE DEPT
Police Chief Stephen Dollinger presented the Police Department budget. He began by
acknowledging the financial constraints and confirming that the department cut approximately
$29,000 from its training budget and submitted no new position requests, though he outlined the
significant risks involved.
Chief Dollinger explained that five police positions had been frozen in the proposed budget —
meaning that if officers depart, those vacancies would not be filled. He cautioned that with 59
officers (six of whom are SROs), the department had limited redundancy. He outlined that should
attrition trigger the frozen positions, patrol coverage could erode, community policing programs
could be drawn down, and the task force officer program would be depleted. He stressed that unlike
patrol positions which can be backfilled from other agencies, task force officer roles represent rare,
specialized skill sets that take years to develop and may not be recoverable once vacated.
The board discussed the mechanics of the frozen positions and Finance Director McLaurin
clarified that the budget was balanced in part on anticipated lapsed salary savings if officers depart
— meaning if no one leaves, there is no savings but no shortfall in salaries either. If officers do
leave and cannot be replaced, the savings would help cover other budget gaps. Several board
members, including Commissioners Hamilton, Tremell, and Marley, expressed discomfort with
freezing public safety positions.
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Commissioner Tremell stated that if public safety is the board's "North Star," freezing five
positions is inconsistent with that commitment.
Commissioner Hamilton noted the board bears accountability if a public safety incident occurs
with reduced staffing.
The Chief provided a detailed report on the financial value of the department's task force program.
In the prior year alone, officers seized over $2.274 million in cash, five houses, and eleven
vehicles. The town was entitled to a significant portion of asset forfeiture proceeds. The Chief
noted that three task force officers are primarily responsible for generating these funds; two of
these officers have applied to Fayetteville PD or the DEA and are at risk of departing.
Mayor Bellflowers raised the possibility of reclassifying the task force officer positions from pay
grade 19 to pay grade 20 as a retention tool. The Chief confirmed this would likely be sufficient
to keep the two officers.
Commissioner Marley raised a concern about creating a morale issue by selectively reclassifying
a small number of positions.
The board agreed this should be explored further and requested Finance Director McLaurin bring
a formal analysis to the May 18 meeting.
Chief Dollinger then reported that all vehicle requests were removed from the proposed budget.
He explained the current lease program, noting that the town had inherited a severely degraded
fleet — 75% of vehicles over 150,000 miles — and that leasing allowed rapid fleet modernization
that outright purchasing could not have achieved. He confirmed that the Cumberland County
school district covered 100% of SRO officer salaries, benefits, uniforms, and equipment, with no
cost to the town other than the vehicles.
STAFF COMMENTS
Town Manager McLaughlin noted that any clarifications or outstanding questions raised during
the workshop would be researched and communicated to the board via email prior to the May 18
meeting. He encouraged board members to submit their questions in advance to allow staff
adequate time to prepare thorough responses.
Mayor Bellflowers confirmed that if additional workshops were needed beyond May 18, those
would be scheduled.
Town Clerk Ashley Wyatt noted that the public hearing was tentatively scheduled for June 1st and
that the advertisement deadline for that date would be 9:00 AM on May 19, however other dates
would be presented at the next meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
Seeing no additional business to come before the board, the meeting was adjourned at 8:22 pm.
The board voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting.
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ADOPTED this 1st Day of June 2026.

ATTEST:
_____________________________
Ashley Wyatt, MMC Town Clerk

Special Meeting
May 11, 2026
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_____________________________________
Jessie Bellflowers, MAYOR

MAYOR PRO TEM
Hope Page

TOWN BOARD
Cynthia Hamilton
Grilley Mitchell
Bryan Marley
Lisa Tremmel

TOWN MANAGER
Chancer McLaughlin

TOWN CLERK
Ashley Wyatt

MAYOR
Jessie Bellflowers

TOWN OF HOPE MILLS BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Meeting Agenda –May 18, 2026
6:00 p.m. Special Budget Workshop Meeting
Mayor Bellflowers called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM and welcomed those in attendance.
STAFF PRESENT
Town Manager Chancer McLaughlin, Town Clerk Ashley Wyatt, Deputy Town Clerk Coronda
Regan, Police Chief Stephen Dollinger, Director of Planning Emily Weidner, Town Planner
Xavier Robinson, Stormwater Administrator Beth Brown, Finance Director Brittany McLaurin,
and Public Works Director Don Sisko
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bellflowers led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA – ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS
The agenda was approved by unanimous vote of the board.
PRESENTATIONS
PLANNING/ ZONING AND CODE ENFORCEMENT
Director of Planning Emily Weidner made herself available for any questions regarding the
proposed budget of her department.
Commissioner Hamilton asked what the 60k was for in the professional services line item.
Town Manager Chancer McLaughlin advised that it was a fee paid to the County for assistance
with certain planning services. He further advised that negotiations were underway to reduce the
cost.
Mayor Pro Tem Hope Page asked when the negotiations would be completed.
Mr. McLaughlin responded that he did not think that process would be complete prior to the
adoption of the budget.
In regard to the training and travel line item, Commissioner Tremmel asked if the requested
trainings were required.
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Mr. Weidner stated that they were.
Mayor Pro Tem Hope Page inquired about the cost for LexisNexus software.
Ms. Weidner advised that the department paid $200 per month for the software.
Commissioner Hamilton asked how many people the $8k in the training and travel budget
covered.
Ms. Weidner replied that it covered all 4 staff.
STORMWATER
Stormwater Administrator Beth Brown made herself available for any questions regarding the
proposed budget of her department.
Commissioner Hamilton questioned the department’s need for an advertising line.
Ms. Brown advised that her department was required we to advertise their various programs and
initiatives.
Commissioner Hamilton asked about the construction and improvement line item.
Ms. Brown advised that historically funds were placed in that line item as a response to any
possible repairs that may be needed throughout the fiscal year.
Commissioner Tremmel Inquired about the increase to the salaries line.
Ms. Brown advised that there were 3 positions from the streets department included in her
budget.
Mayor Bellflowers asked if it was permissible to do so.
Ms. Brown said that it was.
Commissioner Marley expressed concerns about taking funds from one department to fund
another.
Commissioner Hamilton asked if this was the first year that the 3 positions would come from the
stormwater budget.
Ms. Brown advised it was.
Mayor Bellflowers asked for clarification regarding if the salaries and fringe benefits were all
included.
ADJOURNMENT
Seeing no additional business to come before the board, the meeting was adjourned at 6:43 pm.

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Motion by Commissioner Mitchell, seconded by Commissioner Hamilton, and carried
unanimously to adjourn the meeting.
ADOPTED this 1st Day of June 2026.

ATTEST:
_____________________________
Ashley Wyatt, MMC Town Clerk

Special Meeting
May 18, 2026
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_____________________________________
Jessie Bellflowers, MAYOR

MAYOR PRO TEM
Hope Page

TOWN BOARD
Cynthia Hamilton
Grilley Mitchell
Bryan Marley
Lisa Tremmel

TOWN MANAGER
Chancer McLaughlin

TOWN CLERK
Ashley Wyatt

MAYOR
Jessie Bellflowers

TOWN OF HOPE MILLS BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Meeting Agenda –May 18, 2026
7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting
Mayor Bellflowers called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM and welcomed those in attendance.
STAFF PRESENT
Town Manager Chancer McLaughlin, Town Clerk Ashley Wyatt, Police Chief Stephen Dollinger,
Planning Director Emily Weidner, Town Planner Xavier Robinson, Finance Director Brittany
McLaurin, Public Works Director Don Sisko, Parks and Recreation Director Lamarco Morrison,
Human Resources Director Leeanne Carlucci, and Town Attorney Dan Hartzog.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Bellflowers led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA – ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS
Town Manager Chancer McLaughlin presented the Manager's Report for May 18, 2026He
highlighted several upcoming community events.
Regarding infrastructure, the Manager highlighted significant ongoing projects including
improvements to Golfview and Rockfish Road at Town Hall, the Camden Road widening from
Hope Mills Road to I-295, and the Rockfish and Garfield widening. He noted that the Town
successfully negotiated with FAMPEC and NCDOT for sidewalks on both sides of Camden
Road for the full project length at no cost to the Town.
Parks and Recreation updates included the upcoming Hoops After Dark series beginning the
week of June 8th, the launch of flag football for girls, and a new program called "Better Than
Mommy" focused on single mothers with children.
The Manager concluded by presenting the first draft of the Future of Hope Mills Land Use Plan,
the product of an approximately eight-month community engagement process led by
Cumberland County Planning staff. He stated the plan addresses growth management
recommendations including land use regulations, residential construction, data centers, industrial
development, and job creation, with the goal of preserving the small-town character of Hope
Mills over the next 15–20 years.
BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
Commissioner Marley welcomed those in attendance.
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Commissioner Tremmel welcomed the public and expressed anticipation for citizen comments.
Commissioner Mitchell read a prepared statement into the record that addressed a recent social
media post on the "Hope Mills Cumberland County Matters" Facebook page, which included a
photo of four elected officials paired with audio containing a racial slur. He stated that use of
such language was harmful and unacceptable. He also noted for the public that the Town was
currently operating under the prior year's budget, and that it is the Board—not the Town
Manager—that is responsible for budget decisions.
Commissioner Hamilton thanked the Hope Mills Police Department Foundation and recognized
the second annual Police Ball held the prior Saturday, noting the high morale and strong sense of
camaraderie among officers. She praised the awards ceremony and expressed appreciation for
public safety personnel throughout the community.
Mayor Pro Tem Page congratulated Cumberland County Schools students recognized at the May
13th Cumberland County Board of Education meeting for their academic excellence.
Mayor Bellflowers commented on the growing popularity of Lake Park. He welcomed
Councilman Malik Davis from Fayetteville City Council District 2 to the meeting and recognized
Assistant Fire Marshal David Arthur for earning his Level 2 Fire Inspector Certification. The
Mayor then read aloud the full list of awards presented at the Second Annual Police Ball. Mayor
Bellflowers also highlighted the first draft of the Hope Mills Land Use Plan, commending both
Cumberland County Planning staff and all Town departments for their contributions to the
document.
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor Pro Tem Hope Page read into the record the Proclamation Recognizing National Public
Works Week
Mayor Bellflowers read into the record the Proclamation Recognizing Memorial Day 2026
OATHS OF OFFICE
Oaths of Office were administered by Mayor Bellflowers to:
● Brittany McLaurin, Finance Director
● Zachariah Peoples, Police Officer 4. Public Comments
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Seven citizens addressed the Board during the public comment period.
Chris Smith, a retired military veteran residing just outside Town limits in the Grays Creek area,
requested that the Board consider allowing individuals with a Hope Mills mailing address who
reside outside the incorporated limits or Municipal Influence Area (MIA) to serve on voluntary
advisory boards and committees. He noted such individuals still shop, use parks, and support
businesses within Hope Mills.
David Hoffman, a resident of Hope Mills, expressed concern over rising property taxes, noting
his taxes increased approximately $670 following the revaluation, compounded by an increase in
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homeowner's insurance premiums. He urged the Board not to raise property taxes, citing the
burden on retired and fixed-income residents.
John Martinson, a 33-year resident, stated his Hope Mills property taxes increased 121 percent
largely due to revaluation. He urged the Board to return to two-year terms for elected officials,
arguing the change to four-year terms did not receive the proper supermajority approval. He also
called for the resignation of the Mayor and termination of the Town Manager in light of the
recent state audit.
Mark Hess, a 34-year resident and senior citizen, stated that in order to maintain quality services
— including police, fire, parks, and public works — he would support a 5–6 cent property tax
increase per hundred dollars of value. He expressed preference for maintaining service levels
over experiencing the deterioration seen in other municipalities.
Whitaker Granus, President of the Cumberland County Beekeepers Association, provided a
presentation on the importance of honeybees to the food supply
Jennifer Stewart Hixson echoed support for allowing community-connected individuals outside
Town limits to serve on advisory committees, referencing her own prior service on the
Appearance Commission before she relocated. She also expressed opposition to any property tax
increase, noting she lives on a fixed Social Security income and owns a second property subject
to taxation.
Wayne Hemingway urged the Board to exhaust all cost-cutting measures before considering a
tax increase, emphasizing that elected officials have a responsibility to manage taxpayer funds
prudently. He also called on the Board to reverse the change to four-year terms, noting the
measure was previously put to voters and rejected.
Reaver Harwell, a 26-year military veteran, spoke in support of the Town Manager, cautioning
against the tendency to demean public servants. He expressed support for four-year terms,
arguing they provide necessary continuity of governance, and stated he supports a tax increase as
necessary to fund quality services and fairly compensate employees.
CONSENT AGENDA
Consideration And Approval Of Special Meeting Minutes – April 30, 2026 And Regular
Meeting Minutes – May 4, 2026
Consideration And Approval Of Closed Session Meeting Minutes – April 20, 2026
Acceptance Of Monthly Financials – April 2026
Motion to approve Consent Agenda Items A, B, and C was made and seconded. The motion
carried unanimously.
DISCUSSION
DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED FY26-27 DEPARTMENTAL BUDGETS
Public Works
Public Works Director Don Sisko presented the departmental budget.
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Prior to the presentation, Town Manager Chancer McLaughlin provided context for the Board
and public: approximately $2 million in departmental requests had been cut from the proposed
budget before it was presented to the Board — reductions that encompassed salary positions,
equipment, and operational needs across departments
Regarding Buildings and Grounds, the Board discussed a request for a zero-turn commercial
mower at $15,625 to replace a 24-year-old piece of equipment, which was noted as budgeted.
The Board also discussed a $10,000 request for exterior resealing and painting of the Public
Works building, which had not been painted in over 12 years.
A discussion arose regarding the need for a part-time custodian for the public safety building.
Mr. Sisko noted the facility contained 18 bathrooms, two full locker rooms, and five shower
suites — all maintained by a single custodian alongside Town Hall and the Public Works
building.
The Board then discussed the movement of three Streets Department positions into the
Stormwater Fund budget as a cost-balancing measure.
Mayor Bellflowers raised the concern again regarding the recommendation in a prior Finance
Director email that such salaries should remain in the General Fund.
Finance Director Brittany McLaurin clarified the practice was legally permissible and that the
recommendation was a preference, not a legal prohibition.
Commissioner Marley cautioned that as funds were moved from Powell Bill and Stormwater to
cover salaries, the Town's capacity for road maintenance and stormwater infrastructure repairs
would diminish.
Commissioner Hamilton questioned the practice of publicizing engineering estimates prior to the
bidding process, concerned it could anchor contractor bids.
Mr. Sisko explained that engineering estimates are public documents and that competitive
bidding dynamics typically prevent contractors from simply matching the estimate.
Lastly, Mr. Sisko reported increases in the Waste Management contract due to a 5% CPI index
increase and a rise in Pratt Industries' recycling processing flow-through cost from $40 to $60
per ton.
PARKS AND RECREATION
Parks and Recreation Director Lamarco Morrison presented the department budget, noting that
virtually every line item had been reduced. Key discussion points included:
● Training and Travel was reduced from $19,000 across three divisions to $6,000, with all
training to be limited to North Carolina-based, online, or NCRPA-affiliated opportunities
tied to required certifications.
● Departmental Supplies under Athletics/Field Maintenance increased significantly from
prior years, which the Director attributed to years of underfunding and the addition of
new facilities including Heritage Park, the Splash Pad, and the Chapel.
● TJ Robinson Life Center Lease — a $50,000 line item was included for potential lease of
the TJ Robinson Center to address growing demand for basketball, cheerleading, and
potentially volleyball space.
Regular Meeting
May 18, 2026
Vol 34

● VFW Facility Contribution — a request of $6,500 to assist with operational costs at the
VFW given the Town's use of the facility for committee meetings and its role in housing
the Meals on Wheels program.
Commissioner Hamilton noted a prior Board consensus that use of the VFW would be
voluntary.
The Manager's recommended budget reduced the request to $0.
● Tennis Court Resurfacing — a $40,000 request to resurface and line the tennis courts for
pickleball was not funded. Mr. Morrison cautioned that the courts' deteriorating condition
posed safety concerns and may necessitate closure.
Commissioner Mitchell asked for a general revenue figure for the department.
Mr. Morrison estimated approximately $400,000 or more in revenue.
● Surveillance Cameras — the Board discussed whether three camera purchases at $1,000
each should be funded through the Police Department's asset forfeiture funds rather than
the Parks and Recreation budget, given that the Police Department monitors the cameras.
Chief Dollinger indicated asset forfeiture funds could be utilized for the purchase.
● Contracted Program Instruction — a line item of $100,000 was presented. Mr. Morrison
explained this reflects the actual cost of paying contract instructors across an expanded
program portfolio of 38 separate contracts, including officials for athletic leagues, and
incorporates modest pay increases for instructors.
Commissioner Marley asked whether all contracts across departments had been reviewed for
currency and necessity.
Mr. McLaughlin confirmed a prior review had been conducted and committed to bringing a
comprehensive contract list to the next budget workshop.
FINANCE DIRECTOR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE ORGANIZATIONAL
INTERNAL CONTROLS
Finance Director Brittany McLaurin presented six internal control recommendations developed
from her observations since joining the Town, informed in part by the recent Office of State
Auditor (OSA) report:
● Increased Internal Controls and Separation of Duties — to address situations where staff
size leads to commingling of responsibilities.
● Fixed Asset Inventory — to establish a comprehensive, current record of all 150+
vehicles and 180+ pieces of equipment, enabling better lifecycle and maintenance cost
tracking.
● Public Check Register — to post the weekly vendor payment register on the Town
website quarterly to enhance financial transparency.
● Formal Grants Management Policy — to ensure grant applications are pursued only when
matching funds are available and that grant revenue is applied to its intended purpose.

Regular Meeting
May 18, 2026
Vol 34

● Quarterly Financial Presentations to the Board — to supplement monthly financial
updates with formal quarterly presentations enabling proactive identification of budget
shortfalls.
● Engineering Estimates as Internal Controls — to avoid publicly disclosing project cost
estimates in bid documents in order to maximize competitive pricing and protect the
Town's financial interests.
She also announced a spending freeze to be implemented at the end of the month through June
30, 2026 fiscal year-end closeout, permitting only absolute essential expenditures.
Town Manager Chancer McLaughlin noted for the record that the recommendations were above
and beyond the corrective actions required by the OSA audit, and that the Town was
approximately 60% compliant with audit corrective actions.
CONSIDERATION FOR PUBLIC HEARING DATE OF THE FY26-27 PROPOSED
BUDGET
The Board discussed and reached consensus on the following budget process timeline:
● June 1, 2026 at 6:00 PM — Budget Workshop focusing on contracts and personnel
positions.
● June 8, 2026 at 7:00 PM — Public Hearing on the proposed FY2026–27 Budget.
CLOSED SESSION CALLED PURSUANT TO NCGS 143-318.11(A)(3) ATTORNEY
CLIENT PRIVILEGE AND NCGS 143-318.11(A)(6) PERSONNEL
Motion to enter Closed Session pursuant to NCGS 143-318.11(A)(3) to consult with the
attorney on matters within the attorney-client privilege, NCGS 143-318.11(A)(6) to discuss
personnel matters, and NCGS 143-318.11(A)(5) to discuss the acquisition of real property
was made by Mayor Pro Tem Page and seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
The Board returned from Closed Session and reconvened in Open Session.
Following the closed session, Mayor Pro Tem Hope Page moved to seal the minutes of
the closed session until such time as the release of the information would no longer
frustrate the purpose of the closed session, noting that action taken during the closed
session was protected by ncgs 143-318.11 (a) (3). The motion passed.
ADJOURNMENT
Seeing no additional business to come before the board, the meeting was adjourned at 10:59 pm.
Motion by Commissioner Mitchell, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Page, and carried unanimously
to adjourn the meeting.
ADOPTED this 1st Day of June 2026.
_____________________________________
Jessie Bellflowers, MAYOR
Regular Meeting
May 18, 2026
Vol 34

ATTEST:
_____________________________
Ashley Wyatt, MMC Town Clerk

Regular Meeting
May 18, 2026
Vol 34

TAB 3

Meeting Date: ___________________

AGENDA FORM

TO:

Chancer F. McLaughlin, Interim Town Manager

FROM:

Brittany S. McLaurin, Finance Director

SUBJECT:

Audit Contract for FY 2026-27

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Pursuant to NCGS 159-34 each unit of local government and public authority shall have
its accounts audited as soon as possible after the close of each fiscal year by a certified
public accountant or by an accountant certified by the Local Government Commission as
qualified to audit local government accounts.
During the board meeting on March 20, 2023, the Board of Commissioners awarded the
audit contract to the firm of Sharpe Patel, CPA. We are now presenting the annual
contract for approval and the Mayor’s signature.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION, IF APPLICABLE:
Finance recommends the approval of the audit contract as proposed by Sharpe Patel,
CPA, based on price, qualifications, and references.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Board to approve audit contract to Sharpe Patel, CPA., for the FY 2026-2027. Authorize
Mayor and staff to sign contract.
FISCAL IMPACT:
__X__ Currently Budgeted _____ Requires budget amendment ______No fiscal impact.
ATTACHMENTS:
Audit engagement letter and contract to audit accounts
This agenda form has been reviewed by:
Town Manager
Finance Director
Town Attorney
Department Head (s)
Town Clerk-Interim

Initial & Date
BSM 5/8/2026

CONTRACT TO AUDIT ACCOUNTS

LGC-205)RUP%

Rev. /20

FEES FOR AUDIT SERVICES
1. For all non-attest services, the Auditor shall adhere to the independence rules of the AICPA Professional
Code of Conduct (as applicable) and Government Auditing Standards,2018 Revision. Refer to 3DUDJUDSK
2 ofthis contract for specific requirements. The following information must be provided by the Auditor;
contractspresented to the LGC without Whis information will be not be approved.
✔ Third Party
Financial statements were prepared by:
Governmental Unit
Auditor
If applicable: 7KH Lndividual at WKH Governmental Unit designated to have the suitable skills, knowledge,
and/or experience (SKE) necessary to oversee the non-attest services and accept responsibility for the
results of these services:
Name:

TitleDQG8QLW&RPSDQ\:

Email Address:

Brittany McLaurin

Finance Director / Hope Mills

[email protected]

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 Fees may not be included in this contract for work performed on Annual Financial Information Reports
(AFIRs), Form 990s, or other services not associated with audit fees and costs. Such fees may be includedinthe
engagement letter but may not be included in this contract or in any invoices requiring approval of theLGC.See
3DUDJUDSKV 8DQG for details on other allowable and excluded fees.
 7KHDXGLWIHHLQIRUPDWLRQLQFOXGHGLQWKHWDEOHEHORZIRUERWKWKH3ULPDU\*RYHUQPHQW)HHVDQGWKH'3&8
)HHV LIDSSOLFDEOH VKRXOGEHUHSRUWHGDVDVSHFLILFGROODUDPRXQWRIDXGLWIHHVIRUWKH\HDUXQGHUWKLVFRQWUDFW,I
DQ\ODQJXDJHRWKHUWKDQDQDPRXQWLVLQFOXGHGKHUHWKHFRQWUDFWZLOOEHUHWXUQHGWRWKHDXGLWILUPIRUFRUUHFWLRQ
 Prior to WKHsubmission of the completed audited financial reportDQG applicable compliance reportsVXEMHFWWR
WKLVFRQWUDFW RUWRDQ DPHQGPHQWWRWKLVFRQWUDFW(if required) the Auditor may submit LQWHULPinvoices forapproval
for services renderedXQGHUWKLVFRQWUDFWWRWKH6HFUHWDU\RIWKH/*&, not to exceed 75%of the billingsIRUWKH
8QLW VODVWDQQXDODXGLWWKDWZDVVXEPLWWHGWRWKH6HFUHWDU\RIWKH/*& All invoices for services renderedin an
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beforeanypayment is made.Paymentbeforeapproval is aviolationof law. (This SDUDJUDSK not applicable to
contractsDQGLQYRLFHVDVVRFLDWHGZLWKDXGLWVRIKRVSLWDOV 
3ULPDU\*RYHUQPHQW8QLW

Town of Hope Mills

Audit Fee ILQDQFLDODQGFRPSOLDQFHLIDSSOLFDEOH

$ 19,135

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$

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All Other Non-Attest Services

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$

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Page 

BEYOND THE NUMBERS

sharpepatel.com

April 28, 2026
Town of Hope Mills
Hope Mills, North Carolina
To Management, the Mayor and Town Council:
We are pleased to confirm our understanding of the services we are to provide for the Town of Hope Mills
(the “Town”) for the year ended June 30, 2026.
Audit Scope and Objectives
We will audit the financial statements of the governmental activities, business-type activities, each major
fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information, including the related notes to the financial statements,
which collectively comprise the basic financial statements of the Town as of and for the year ended June 30,
2026. Accounting standards generally accepted in the United States of America provide for certain required
supplementary information (RSI), such as management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A), to supplement
the Town’s basic financial statements. Such information, although not a part of the basic financial statements,
is required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board who considers it to be an essential part of
financial reporting for placing the basic financial statements in an appropriate operational, economic, or
historical context. As part of our engagement, we will apply certain limited procedures to the Town’s RSI in
accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. These limited
procedures will consist of inquiries of management regarding the methods of preparing the information and
comparing the information for consistency with management’s responses to our inquiries, the basic financial
statements, and other knowledge we obtained during our audit of the basic financial statements. We will not
express an opinion or provide any assurance on the information because the limited procedures do not provide
us with sufficient evidence to express an opinion or provide any assurance. The following RSI is required by
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and will be subjected to certain limited procedures, but will
not be audited:
1) Management’s Discussion and Analysis

We have also been engaged to report on supplementary information other than RSI that
accompanies the School’s financial statements. We will subject the following supplementary
information to the auditing procedures applied in our audit of the financial statements and certain
additional procedures, including comparing and reconciling such information directly to the
underlying accounting and other records used to prepare the financial statements or to the financial
statements themselves, and other additional procedures in accordance with GAAS, and we will
provide an opinion on it in relation to the financial statements as a whole in a report combined
with our auditor’s report on the financial statements:
1) 1. Required supplemental financial data
2) Individual fund statements and other schedules
The objectives of our audit are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and issue
an auditor’s report that includes our opinion about whether your financial statements are fairly
presented, in all material respects, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States of America. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute
assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with GAAS and
Government Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.
Misstatements, including omissions, can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if
there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, they would influence the
judgment of a reasonable user made based on the financial statements. The objectives also include
reporting on:


Internal control over financial reporting and compliance with provisions of laws,
regulations, contracts, and award agreements, noncompliance with which could have a
material effect on the financial statements in accordance with Government Auditing
Standards.

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements
Our audit will be conducted in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United
States of America and the standards for financial audits contained in Government Auditing
Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States, and will include tests of the
accounting records of the Town and other procedures we consider necessary to enable us to express
such opinions. As part of an audit in accordance with GASS and Governmental Auditing
Standards, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout
the audit.

2|Page

We will evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of
significant accounting estimates made by management. We will also evaluate the overall
presentation of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and determine whether the
financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair
presentation. We will plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether from (1) errors, (2) fraudulent
financial reporting, (3) misappropriation of assets, or (4) violations of laws or governmental
regulations that are attributable to the Town or to acts by management or employees acting on
behalf of the Town. Because the determination of waste and abuse is subjective, Government
Auditing Standards do not expect auditors to perform specific procedures to detect waste or abuse
in financial audits nor do they expect auditors to provide reasonable assurance of detecting waste
or abuse.
Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, combined with the inherent limitations of internal
control, and because we will not perform a detailed examination of all transactions, there is an
unavoidable risk that some material misstatements may not be detected by us, even though the
audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with GAAS and Government Auditing
Standards. In addition, an audit is not designed to detect immaterial misstatements or violations
of laws or governmental regulations that do not have a direct and material effect on the financial
statements. However, we will inform the appropriate level of management of any material errors,
fraudulent financial reporting, or misappropriation of assets that comes to our attention. We will
also inform the appropriate level of management of any violations of laws or governmental
regulations that come to our attention, unless clearly inconsequential. We will include such matters
in the report required for a Single Audit. Our responsibility as auditors is limited to the period
covered by our audit and does not extend to any later periods for which we are not engaged as
auditors.
We will also conclude, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether there are conditions or events,
considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the Town’s ability to continue as a
going concern for a reasonable period of time.
Our procedures will include tests of documentary evidence supporting the transactions recorded
in the accounts, tests of the physical existence of inventories, and direct confirmation of receivables
and certain assets and liabilities by correspondence with selected individuals, funding sources,
creditors, and financial institutions. We will also request written representations from your
attorneys as part of the engagement.
We may, from time to time and depending on the circumstances, use third-party service providers
in serving your account. We may share confidential information about you with these service
providers but remain committed to maintaining the confidentiality and security of your information.
Accordingly, we maintain internal policies, procedures, and safeguards to protect the
confidentiality of your personal information. In addition, we will secure confidentiality agreements
with all service providers to maintain the confidentiality of your information and we will take
reasonable precautions to determine that they have appropriate procedures in place to prevent the
unauthorized release of your confidential information to others. In the event that we are unable to
secure an appropriate confidentiality agreement, you will be asked to provide your consent prior
to the sharing of your confidential information with the third-party service provider. Furthermore,
we will remain responsible for the work provided by any such third-party service providers.

3|Page

Audit Procedures—Internal Control
We will obtain an understanding of the Town and its environment, including internal control
relevant to the audit, sufficient to identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the
financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and to design and perform audit procedures
responsive to those risks and obtain evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis
for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher
than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions,
misrepresentation, or the override of internal control. Tests of controls may be performed to test
the effectiveness of certain controls that we consider relevant to preventing and detecting errors
and fraud that are material to the financial statements and to preventing and detecting
misstatements resulting from illegal acts and other noncompliance matters that have a direct and
material effect on the financial statements. Our tests, if performed, will be less in scope than would
be necessary to render an opinion on internal control and, accordingly, no opinion will be
expressed in our report on internal control issued pursuant to Government Auditing Standards.
An audit is not designed to provide assurance on internal control or to identify significant
deficiencies or material weaknesses. Accordingly, we will express no such opinion. However,
during the audit, we will communicate to management and those charged with governance internal
control related matters that are required to be communicated under AICPA professional standards,
Government Auditing Standards, and the Uniform Guidance (as applicable).
Audit Procedures—Compliance
As part of obtaining reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement, we will perform tests of the Town’s compliance with provisions of
applicable laws, regulations, contracts, and agreements, including grant agreements. However, the
objective of those procedures will not be to provide an opinion on overall compliance, and we will
not express such an opinion in our report on compliance issued pursuant to Government Auditing
Standards.
Other Services
We will also assist in preparing the financial statements and related notes of Town in conformity
with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America based on
information provided by you. These nonaudit services do not constitute an audit under Government
Auditing Standards and such services will not be conducted in accordance with Government
Auditing Standards. We will perform the services in accordance with applicable professional
standards. The other services are limited to the financial statement services previously defined.
We, in our sole professional judgment, reserve the right to refuse to perform any procedure or take
any action that could be construed as assuming management responsibilities.
You agree to assume all management responsibilities relating to the financial statements and
related notes and any other nonaudit services we provide. You will be required to acknowledge in
the management representation letter our assistance with preparation of the financial statements
and related notes and that you have reviewed and approved the financial statements and related
notes prior to their issuance and have accepted responsibility for them. Further, you agree to
oversee the nonaudit services by designating an individual, preferably from senior management,
with suitable skill, knowledge, or experience; evaluate the adequacy and results of those services;
and accept responsibility for them.

4|Page

Responsibilities of Management for the Financial Statements
Our audit will be conducted on the basis that you acknowledge and understand your responsibility
for (1) designing, implementing, establishing, and maintaining effective internal controls relevant
to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, including internal controls over federal awards, and
for evaluating and monitoring ongoing activities to help ensure that appropriate goals and
objectives are met; (2) following laws and regulations; (3) ensuring that there is reasonable
assurance that government programs are administered in compliance with compliance
requirements; and (4) ensuring that management and financial information is reliable and properly
reported. Management is also responsible for implementing systems designed to achieve
compliance with applicable laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements.
Management is responsible for making drafts of financial statements, all financial records, and
related information available to us and for the accuracy and completeness of that information
(including information from outside of the general and subsidiary ledgers). You are also
responsible for providing us with (1) access to all information of which you are aware that is
relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements, such as records,
documentation, identification of all related parties and all related-party relationships and
transactions, and other matters; (2) additional information that we may request for the purpose of
the audit; and (3) unrestricted access to persons within the government from whom we determine
it necessary to obtain audit evidence. At the conclusion of our audit, we will require certain written
representations from you about your responsibilities for the financial statements; compliance with
laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements; and other responsibilities required by GAAS
and Government Auditing Standards.
Your responsibilities include adjusting the financial statements to correct material misstatements
and confirming to us in the management representation letter that the effects of any uncorrected
misstatements aggregated by us during the current engagement and pertaining to the latest period
presented are immaterial, both individually and in the aggregate, to the financial statements taken
as a whole.
You are responsible for the design and implementation of programs and controls to prevent and
detect fraud, and for informing us about all known or suspected fraud affecting the government
involving (1) management, (2) employees who have significant roles in internal control, and (3)
others where the fraud could have a material effect on the financial statements. Your
responsibilities include informing us of your knowledge of any allegations of fraud or suspected
fraud affecting the government received in communications from employees, former employees,
grantors, regulators, or others. In addition, you are responsible for identifying and ensuring that
the government complies with applicable laws, regulations, contracts, agreements, and grants and
for taking timely and appropriate steps to remedy fraud and noncompliance with provisions of
laws, regulations, or contracts or grant agreements that we report.
You are responsible for the preparation of the supplementary information, which we have been
engaged to report on, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America (GAAP). You agree to include our report on the supplementary information in
any document that contains, and indicates that we have reported on, the supplementary information.
You also agree to [include the audited financial statements with any presentation of the
supplementary information that includes our report thereon OR make the audited financial

5|Page

statements readily available to users of the supplementary information no later than the date the
supplementary information is issued with our report thereon]. Your responsibilities include
acknowledging to us in the written representation letter that (1) you are responsible for presentation
of the supplementary information in accordance with GAAP; (2) you believe the supplementary
information, including its form and content, is fairly presented in accordance with GAAP; (3) the
methods of measurement or presentation have not changed from those used in the prior period (or,
if they have changed, the reasons for such changes); and (4) you have disclosed to us any
significant assumptions or interpretations underlying the measurement or presentation of the
supplementary information.
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining a process for tracking the status of
audit findings and recommendations. Management is also responsible for identifying and
providing report copies of previous financial audits, attestation engagements, performance audits,
or other studies related to the objectives discussed in the Audit Scope and Objectives section of
this letter. This responsibility includes relaying to us corrective actions taken to address significant
findings and recommendations resulting from those audits, attestation engagements, performance
audits, or studies. You are also responsible for providing management’s views on our current
findings, conclusions, and recommendations, as well as your planned corrective actions for the
report, and for the timing and format for providing that information.
Engagement Administration, Fees, and Other
We understand that your employees will prepare all cash, accounts receivable, and other
confirmations we request and will locate any documents selected by us for testing.
We will provide copies of our reports to the Town; however, management is responsible for
distribution of the reports and the financial statements. Unless restricted by law or regulation, or
containing privileged and confidential information, copies of our reports are to be made available
for public inspection.
The audit documentation for this engagement is the property of Sharpe Patel, PLLC and constitutes
confidential information. However, subject to applicable laws and regulations, audit
documentation and appropriate individuals will be made available upon request and in a timely
manner to oversight agencies] or its designee, a federal agency providing direct or indirect funding,
or the U.S. Government Accountability Office for purposes of a quality review of the audit, to
resolve audit findings, or to carry out oversight responsibilities.
We will notify you of any such request. If requested, access to such audit documentation will be
provided under the supervision of Sharpe Patel PLLC’s personnel. Furthermore, upon request, we
may provide copies of selected audit documentation to the aforementioned parties. These parties
may intend, or decide, to distribute the copies or information contained therein to others, including
other governmental agencies.
The audit documentation for this engagement will be retained for a minimum of five years after
the report release date or for any additional period requested by the Oversight Agency for Audit.
If we are aware that a federal awarding agency, pass-through entity, or auditee is contesting an
audit finding, we will contact the party(ies) contesting the audit finding for guidance prior to
destroying the audit documentation.

6|Page

Jay E. Sharpe, CPA, CFE is the engagement partner and is responsible for supervising the
engagement and signing the report or authorizing another individual to sign it. We expect to
begin our audit in May 2026. We expect to issue our reports no later than December 31, 2026.
We estimate that our fees for the services will not exceed $21,635 for the audit. The fee estimate
is based on anticipated cooperation from your personnel and the assumption that unexpected
circumstances will not be encountered during the engagement. If significant additional time is
necessary, we will keep you informed of any problems we encounter and our fees will be adjusted
accordingly. Our invoices for these fees will be rendered each month as work progresses and are
payable on presentation.
Reporting
We will issue a written report upon completion of our audit of the Town’s financial statements.
Our report will be addressed to the Mayor and Town Council of the Town. Circumstances may
arise in which our report may differ from its expected form and content based on the results of our
audit. Depending on the nature of these circumstances, it may be necessary for us to modify our
opinion, add a separate section, or add an emphasis-of-matter or other-matter paragraph to our
auditor’s report, or if necessary, withdraw from this engagement. If our opinion is other than
unmodified, we will discuss the reasons with you in advance. If, for any reason, we are unable to
complete the audit or are unable to form or have not formed an opinion, we may decline to express
an opinion or withdraw from this engagement.
We appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you and believe this letter accurately summarizes
the significant terms of our engagement. If you have any questions, please let us know. If you
agree with the terms of our engagement as described in this letter, please sign the enclosed copy
and return it to us.
Sincerely,

7|Page

RESPONSE:
This letter correctly sets forth the understanding of the Town of Hope Mills

Management signature:
Title:
Date:

Governance signature:
Title:
Date:

8|Page

BEYOND THE NUMBERS

sharpepatel.com

April 28, 2026
Town of Hope Mills
Hope Mills, North Carolina
To Management, the Mayor and Town Council:

We are engaged to audit the financial statements of Town of Hope Mills for the year ended June 30,
2026. Professional standards require that we provide you with the following information related to
our audit. We would also appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss this information
further since a two-way dialogue can provide valuable information for the audit process.
Our Responsibility under U.S. Generally Accepted Auditing Standards
As stated in our engagement letter dated April 28, 2026 , our responsibility, as described by
professional standards, is to express an opinion about whether the financial statements prepared by
management with your oversight are fairly presented, in all material respects, in conformity with
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Our audit of the financial statements does not relieve
you or management of your responsibilities.
Our responsibility for the supplementary information accompanying the financial statements, as
described by professional standards, is to evaluate the presentation of the supplementary information
in relation to the financial statements as a whole and to report on whether the supplementary
information is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the financial statements as a whole.
Planned Scope, Timing of the Audit, and Other
An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements; therefore, our audit will involve judgment about the number of transactions to
be examined and the areas to be tested.

Our audit will include obtaining an understanding of the School and its environment, including
internal control, sufficient to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements
and to design the nature, timing, and extent of further audit procedures. Material misstatements
may result from (1) errors, (2) fraudulent financial reporting, (3) misappropriation of assets, or (4)
violations of laws or governmental regulations that are attributable to the School or to acts by
management or employees acting on behalf of the School. We will generally communicate our
significant findings at the conclusion of the audit. However, some matters could be communicated
sooner, particularly if significant difficulties are encountered during the audit where assistance is
needed to overcome the difficulties or if the difficulties may lead to a modified opinion. We will
also communicate any internal control related matters that are required to be communicated under
professional standards.
We expect to begin our audit in approximately June 2026 and issue our report before December
31, 2026. Jay Sharpe, CPA, CFE is the engagement partner and is responsible for supervising the
engagement and signing the report or authorizing another individual to sign it.
This information is intended solely for the use of the Mayor, Town Council and the management
of the Town of Hope Mills and is not intended to be, and should not be, used by anyone other than
these specified parties.
Sincerely,

2|Page

TAB 4

Meeting Date: June 1, 2026

AGENDA FORM
TO:

Chancer F. McLaughlin, Town Manager

FROM:

Lamarco M. Morrison, Parks and Recreation Director

SUBJECT:

Budget Amendment - Consideration of approving Budget Amendment #30
to accept the N.C. Amateur Sports, Youth Sports Grant Fund in the amount
of $7,000.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

The current conditions of the ballfields at Municipal Park require improvements to ensure
safe, functional, and properly maintained playing surfaces for youth athletics and
community recreation programs. Over time, normal wear and usage have impacted the
quality and playability of the fields, creating a need for upgrades that will enhance player
safety, improve field conditions, and support continued recreational programming. In
addition to field improvements, enhancements to seating and gathering areas are needed
to provide a more comfortable and welcoming environment for families, spectators, and
visitors attending games and community events at the park.
To address these needs, the Parks & Recreation Department submitted a grant application
to the North Carolina Amateur Sports Youth Sports Grant Fund seeking financial
assistance for athletic field and spectator area improvements at Municipal Park. The
proposed project includes upgrades intended to improve the overall quality, appearance,
and usability of the facility while supporting recreational opportunities for the
community.
On April 1, 2026, the Town of Hope Mills was awarded $7,000 in funding through the
North Carolina Amateur Sports Youth Sports Grant Fund to support these improvements
to the athletic facilities at Municipal Park. The project work will be completed by the
Hope Mills Parks & Recreation Maintenance Team, allowing the Town to efficiently
utilize in-house staff resources while minimizing project costs. These improvements will
enhance the safety, functionality, and overall experience of Municipal Park for athletes,
families, and spectators for years to come.
This agenda form has been reviewed by:
Town Manager
Finance Director
Town Attorney
Department Head (s)
Town Clerk

Initial & Date
BSM 5/21/2026
LMM 05/20/2026

Meeting Date: June 1, 2026
STAFF RECOMMENDATION, IF APPLICABLE: Staff recommends approval of Budget
Amendment #30 for the acceptance and acknowledgement of the grant funding.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Approval of Budget Amendment #30 for the acceptance and acknowledgement of grant funding
from the North Carolina Amateur Sports Youth Sports Grant Fund.
FISCAL IMPACT:
_______ Currently Budgeted ____X_____ Requires budget amendment ________ No fiscal
impact.
ATTACHMENTS: Budget Amendment #30

This agenda form has been reviewed by:
Town Manager
Finance Director
Town Attorney
Department Head (s)
Town Clerk

Initial & Date
BSM 5/21/2026
LMM 05/20/2026

Town of Hope Mills, North Carolina
Budget Ordinance Amendment
Fiscal Year 2025-2026
Amendment #30
BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Hope Mills, North Carolina,
that the following amendment be made to the annual budget ordinance for the fiscal year ending
June 30, 2026:
Section 1. To amend the General Fund, the appropriations are to be changed as follows:

Account
Parks & Rec Improvements - Expenditures

Increase
10-622-4001

Decrease

7,000
7,000

-

This will result in a net increase of $7,000 in the appropriations of the General Fund.
To provide the additional revenue for the above, the following revenues will be increased.
Account
Miscellaneous Revenues
N.C. Amateur Sports, Youth Sports Grant

Decrease

Increase

10-3900

7,000
$

-

Section 2. Copies of this budget amendment shall be furnished to the Clerk to the Board of
Commissioners, and to the Budget Officer and the Finance Officer for their direction.

Adopted this 1st day of June 2026.

Jessie Bellflowers, Mayor

Attest:

Ashley Wyatt, Town Clerk

7,000