The North Carolina Council of State Republicans has released updates on various initiatives and issues addressed by state officials in June.
State Auditor Dave Boliek reported on a Special Report from the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor, which found that a Hurricane Helene relief station in Swannanoa had an average daily cost exceeding $145,000. The “Community Care Station” provided essential services such as showers, laundry, and counseling from October 2024 to April 2025. The total estimated cost was $27.4 million. Boliek emphasized the importance of cost-awareness during disaster response: “In the middle of a disaster, providing a warm shower, laundry facilities to wash clothes, and a place to rest is responsive to the public need. That said, the government must always be cognizant of costs and routinely assess if we are making the most out of tax dollars.”
Labor Commissioner Luke Farley announced a 3% pay increase for eligible Compliance Safety and Health Officers (CSHOs) with over three years of service. This raise aims to retain skilled inspectors within the Occupational Safety and Health Division without additional taxpayer expense. Farley stated: “This raise is about recognizing the experienced professionals who have chosen to build their careers here at the Department of Labor.”
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler attended an event celebrating D&M Farms as North Carolina Soil & Water Conservation Districts Farm Family of the Year. Troxler praised their commitment to farming practices that sustain future generations: “Farming now is about the future. We’re trying to keep farms in North Carolina in production.” He noted concerns about farmland loss but expressed optimism for agriculture’s future due to ongoing demand for farm products.
Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey warned residents about a phone scam similar to Georgia’s ‘Prison Scam,’ where scammers impersonate officials demanding bond payments via cell phone apps. Causey advised caution: “We are asking the public to be aware of this scam, and to never send money to a bail bondsman over the phone without checking with DOI first.” Reports have surfaced across several counties including Wake, Alamance, Forsyth, Iredell, Lincoln, Gaston, Union, Mecklenburg, Cleveland, Buncombe, Johnston, and Haywood.
