FEMA Hotel Assistance Declines as Helene Survivors Seek Housing Solutions

The number of households in FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) program for Tropical Storm Helene survivors in Western North Carolina has dropped from 5,700 in early January to just 762 as of February 4. In Buncombe County alone, 108 more households will exit the program by February 8 after being deemed ineligible. While FEMA has provided $2.5 million in rental assistance locally and over $107 million statewide, many individuals, including former trucker Randy Billiot and Clyde resident Kevin Moreland, have struggled to secure stable housing. Moreland has found a donated camper, but Billiot remains in limbo, highlighting the ongoing challenges for storm survivors as the TSA program continues through May 26. (Citizen Times)

NC Supreme Court Race Still Undecided as Vote Challenge Heads to Court

Three months after the election, the North Carolina Supreme Court race remains uncertified as Republican candidate Jefferson Griffin challenges 60,000 ballots, citing missing driver’s license or Social Security numbers in voter registrations. Griffin, who trails Democratic incumbent Allison Riggs by 734 votes after two recounts, is also contesting some military and overseas ballots. The case, set to be heard in Wake County Superior Court, has drawn criticism, with advocates arguing the challenge disproportionately impacts Black, Brown, and low-income voters. Meanwhile, affected voters vow to fight for their ballots to be counted. (ABC 11)

NC Supreme Court Race Dispute May Return to Federal Court

The North Carolina State Board of Elections and Justice Allison Riggs plan to take their ballot dispute back to federal court if state courts rule in favor of Riggs' opponent, Jefferson Griffin. The dispute, set for a state Superior Court hearing on Friday, involves over 65,000 contested ballots in an election where Riggs leads by 734 votes out of 5.5 million cast. The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled the case should proceed in state court first, but Riggs and the elections board have reserved the right to return to federal court under the England reservation. If unresolved, Riggs remains on the bench while the legal battle continues. (Carolina Journal)

NC Lawmakers Propose Statewide Classroom Cell Phone Ban

A new bill introduced in the North Carolina Senate seeks to ban cell phones and other devices during instructional time in all public schools. The proposed legislation would require districts to enforce policies prohibiting students from using, displaying, or turning on wireless communication devices in class, with exceptions for educational purposes and emergencies. Supporters argue the ban would improve focus and reduce distractions, while some advocate for allowing phone use during free time. The bill does not specify how devices should be stored but includes exemptions for students with medical needs or special education plans. (CBS 17)

NC Lawmakers Push for Permitless Concealed Carry, Sparking Debate

Two new bills, Senate Bill 50 and House Bill 5, aim to allow North Carolinians 18 and older to carry concealed weapons without a permit, eliminating mandatory training requirements. Supporters, including firearms instructors and Republican lawmakers, argue the legislation aligns with surrounding states and protects Second Amendment rights. Opponents, including gun safety advocates and some Democrats, warn that the move could increase gun violence and public safety risks. The Senate version has backing from Senate President Phil Berger, improving its chances of passage. Both bills are currently under review in legislative committees. (ABC 11)

NC House Forms Select Committee on Government Efficiency

North Carolina House Speaker Destin Hall (R-Granite Falls) announced the formation of the Select Committee on Government Efficiency, chaired by Reps. John Torbett (R-Gaston) and Keith Kidwell (R-Beaufort). The committee will review DEI policies, excess state property, and other areas of potential government waste. Hall emphasized reducing government spending to focus funds on public safety and education, aligning with President Trump’s federal push to cut DEI programs and modernize government operations. The committee's work will run alongside the State and Local Government committee, which can also propose related legislation. (North State Journal)

Mark Robinson Drops Defamation Suit Against CNN and Louis Money

Former North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson dismissed his $50 million defamation lawsuit against CNN and former porn shop clerk Louis Money, citing the futility of continuing litigation. The lawsuit stemmed from reports alleging Robinson frequented adult stores and posted controversial statements on a pornography website, claims he denied. Robinson, who lost the governor’s race by 15 points, withdrew the case before testifying under oath and announced he would not seek office in 2026. (The Assembly)

Raleigh City Council Revises Public Comment Rules, Bans Digital Media Displays

The Raleigh City Council voted unanimously to revise its public comment policies, banning the display of digital media during public comment sessions while allowing speakers to submit PDF and JPEG files with the agenda. The council also moved to clarify the purpose of public comments, emphasizing that council members are there to listen rather than respond in real time. Additionally, they are considering reducing the length of evening public comment sessions and implementing an earlier fixed start time to improve efficiency. Despite these changes, Raleigh still exceeds North Carolina's legal requirements for public comment opportunities. (Indy Week)

Wilson Board Approves Rezoning for Commercial Development

The Wilson Planning and Design Review Board unanimously approved rezoning two vacant properties, 3204 Raleigh Road Parkway and 2645 Forest Hills Loop, for general commercial use. Property owner Abbitt Goodwin emphasized the need for consistency along the growing Raleigh Road corridor and noted that a portion of the Parkway lot will retain neighborhood commercial zoning as a buffer. While no specific plans have been announced, Goodwin intends to eliminate direct access to Raleigh Road Parkway to improve traffic safety. (Wilson Times)

Alamance County Debates Shooting Range Regulations Amid Safety Concerns

Alamance County commissioners postponed a decision on a proposed shooting range ordinance but heard from 15 residents divided over the issue. The ordinance, prompted by complaints about Rad Range Training and Events Center, includes provisions for annual permits, required range officers, and safety buffers. While some gun range operators supported safety measures, they opposed standardized operating hours and permitting requirements. Nearby residents cited safety concerns, including stray bullets, while others defended Second Amendment rights. The commissioners plan further discussions before making a final decision. (Alamance News)

Pittsboro Approves Mixed-Use Rezoning, Affordable Housing Condition

The Pittsboro Board of Commissioners approved rezoning requests for two properties totaling over 156 acres near Chatham Park, allowing for mixed-use development with residential, commercial, and office space. Developers agreed to allocate 7.5% of housing units for affordable housing. Additionally, 6.9 acres will be donated for a fire station or public park. The board also approved text amendments to the UDO for improved functionality and received a clean audit report for 2023-24. (Chatham News + Record)

Cape Fear Region Adopts e-Courts for Digital Legal Process

Counties across the Cape Fear region, including Pender County, have implemented e-Courts, allowing for e-filing and online public access to court documents. District Judge Chad Hogston noted the transition has temporarily reduced caseloads from 1,000 to 100 as officials adjust to the new system. While initial hiccups are expected, courts aim to return to normal operations soon. Currently, e-Courts is live in 62 North Carolina counties, with full statewide implementation anticipated by year-end. (WWAY)

Orange County, UNC Brace for Potential Federal Funding Cuts

Following the White House's initial announcement of a freeze on federal funding—later halted by court orders—Orange County and UNC leaders have been preparing for possible financial impacts. Chapel Hill Mayor Jess Anderson and County Commissioner Chair Jamezetta Bedford highlighted the town and county’s reliance on federal grants for transit, housing, and social services, warning of severe economic consequences if funding is cut. At UNC, Chancellor Lee Roberts emphasized the importance of federal research grants, which totaled $1.55 billion last year, with over $66 million from the NIH alone. Meanwhile, Carrboro Mayor Barbara Foushee assured residents that local government services and values would remain unchanged despite federal policy shifts. (Chapelboro)

NC Board of Education Seeks Voucher Freeze, Increased School Funding

The North Carolina State Board of Education voted 9-2 to request a moratorium on new Opportunity Scholarship vouchers, redirecting funds to public schools instead. The program is set to receive $594 million next fiscal year, a 9.7% increase, and the board wants future increases to match public school funding growth. Superintendent Maurice "Mo" Green's budget request includes $377 million for free school meals, $229.8 million for disability-based funding, $153 million for student laptops, and $120 million for school resource officers. (WUNC)

Durham Schools Consider Using MacKenzie Scott Funds to Cover Budget Shortfall

Durham Public Schools is exploring reallocating part of MacKenzie Scott’s $18 million donation to help close a $7 million budget shortfall. CFO Jeremy Teetor identified approximately $4 million in unspent funds, including $1.5 million not yet budgeted, but emphasized ongoing discussions before finalizing allocations. Even with redirected funds and $1.5 million from a pre-K fund, the district still faces a $1.6 million gap. The financial strain follows unexpected costs in payroll, charter schools, and child nutrition. Public input on next year’s budget will be sought at a February 20 hearing, with a final proposal expected in March. (Indy Week)

New Hanover School Board Tackles Bonuses, Cellphones, Data Breach, and Public Comment

The New Hanover County Board of Education discussed forming ad-hoc committees on student cellphone use and employee bonuses, though funding and fairness concerns delayed decisions. The board also addressed the PowerSchool data breach, which affected over 60 million people nationwide, voting unanimously to request legal action from North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson. Additionally, the board debated changes to its public comment period but took no action, and Student Voice representatives pushed back against classroom display restrictions, citing First Amendment concerns. (Port City Daily)

Pender County Schools Boosts Bus Driver Pay, Invests in Safety

Pender County Schools is increasing bus driver wages from $16.26 to $17.75 per hour and adjusting pay for bus monitors to improve recruitment and retention. Funded by the County Board of Commissioners, the move aims to address the district’s bus driver shortage and bring wages in line with neighboring Cape Fear counties. Additionally, the district is investing $400,000 to upgrade radio systems in over 100 school buses, enhancing communication and transportation safety, though full implementation may extend beyond the current school year. (WWAY)

Winston-Salem Schools Launch "See for Yourself" Tours for Community Insight

The Winston-Salem Forsyth County School Board is offering community members a firsthand look at school operations through Superintendent Tricia McManus' "See for Yourself" tours. Aimed at assessing improvements and enhancing safety, the initiative recently visited Glenn High School, where Principal Scott Munsie credited increased staff visibility for reducing fights. The program also underscores the need for student safety beyond school grounds, especially after a recent accident involving a Parkland High student. McManus hopes the tours will foster transparency and community engagement in school safety and improvement efforts. (ABC 45)

Davidson County Schools Pilots AI Safety Program

Davidson County Schools will be the first in North Carolina to pilot an AI-powered safety program, following a 4-1 school board vote. Developed by Eviden, the system monitors security cameras for threats such as fights, intruders, and smoke detection. Funded by a $2 million state grant, the program aims to improve crisis response times. While some parents raised privacy concerns over facial recognition and license plate tracking, Superintendent Dr. Gregg Slate assured that the district opted out of those features. The pilot will launch in three schools, with potential expansion across the district pending evaluation. (ABC 45)

Parents Express Concerns Over Trump’s Plan to Abolish Department of Education

Former President Donald Trump has reiterated his plan to abolish the Department of Education, shifting control of schools to individual states. Parents in the Triad, particularly those with children who have learning disabilities, fear this could undermine federal protections and funding for special education. While dismantling the department would require congressional approval, families remain concerned about the potential impact on their children's future education rights. (FOX 8)

High Point University Donates $500K for Affordable Housing

High Point University President Nido Qubein announced a $500,000 donation to the High Point Community Foundation during an event featuring former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The donation aims to support quality affordable housing for essential workers and their families in High Point. Representatives from the foundation were present to accept the contribution, highlighting the university’s commitment to community development. (FOX 8)

UNC System Suspends DEI Course Requirements Following Trump Executive Order

The UNC System has suspended all mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) course requirements, citing compliance with President Donald Trump’s January 21 executive order on federal contracts. The order mandates that institutions receiving federal funding certify they do not run programs promoting DEI in violation of anti-discrimination laws. The decision affects 16 public universities and the NC School of Science and Mathematics, with $1.4 billion in annual federal research funding and over $600 million in student aid at stake. DEI courses will now be offered as electives, though students can still take them without penalty. (News & Observer)

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy May Expand to Wilmington for Veterans

Extivita Healthcare, a specialist in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), is exploring expansion to Wilmington, NC, to provide cutting-edge treatment for PTSD, depression, and other conditions, particularly benefiting veterans. HBOT involves multiple sessions in a pressurized chamber of pure oxygen, which studies suggest can aid healing and boost stem cell production. Extivita partners with HBOT for Heros, a nonprofit providing free treatment to veterans, with Purple Heart recipient David Buzzard and Marine veteran Chris Rabassi crediting the therapy for significant improvements in sleep, mental well-being, and mobility. Advocates hope North Carolina can lead nationwide expansion efforts. (WWAY)

Toyota to Open $14 Billion NC Battery Plant in April

Toyota has announced that its $14 billion battery manufacturing plant near Greensboro, officially known as Toyota Battery Manufacturing, North Carolina, will begin production and shipping in April. The facility, the automaker’s 11th U.S. manufacturing site, will produce batteries for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles. Toyota CFO Yoichi Miyazaki confirmed the plant’s readiness during the company’s third-quarter financial report in Japan. (FOX 8)

New DOT Funding Rules May Impact Charlotte Transit Plans

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued new funding guidelines favoring communities with higher-than-average marriage and birth rates, raising concerns for transit-dependent cities. The directive specifically affects transit funding, including the Capital Investment Grant program, which Charlotte is counting on for billions in federal support to expand rail and bus rapid transit lines. Mecklenburg County exceeds the national birth rate (13.1 per 1,000 vs. 11) but falls short on marriage rates, potentially jeopardizing funding for projects like the Red Line commuter train and Lynx Blue Line extension. (WFAE)

Birkdale Village Expansion Faces Resident Opposition Over Traffic Concerns

Jamestown, the new owner of Birkdale Village in Huntersville, presented expansion plans at a public hearing, proposing a 125-room hotel, 150 multifamily units, office and commercial space, and two new parking decks. While the $200 million project promises economic benefits, including $200,000 in additional annual tax revenue, at least 22 residents voiced concerns about traffic congestion and overdevelopment, while three spoke in favor. The Huntersville Planning Board will make a recommendation on Feb. 25, with a final vote by the Board of Commissioners set for March 18. (Charlotte Observer)

Honeywell to Split Into Three Independent Companies by 2026

Honeywell announced plans to divide into three independent companies, separating its automation, aerospace, and advanced materials businesses. The move follows pressure from shareholders, including Elliott Investment Management, which holds a $5 billion stake in the company. CEO Vimal Kapur stated that the restructuring aims to create more agile, industry-focused entities. The advanced materials spinoff is expected by early 2025, while automation and aerospace separations will be completed in the second half of 2026. This follows a broader trend of U.S. conglomerates, including GE and Alcoa, simplifying their structures to enhance efficiency and shareholder value. (WRAL)

RTI Faces Uncertainty as Trump Administration Moves to Close USAID

The Research Triangle Institute (RTI), a major federal research contractor employing nearly 6,000 people, faces funding uncertainty as the Trump Administration moves to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). RTI, which received over $2.6 billion in federal funds between 2013 and 2022, ranks among the top non-military recipients of government research contracts. Experts warn that losing USAID funding could severely impact North Carolina’s economy and research sector. While RTI receives some state funding, the organization has yet to comment on the potential agency closure. (ABC 11)

Mountain Valley Pipeline Seeks Approval for NC Extension Amid Opposition

The Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP) has requested federal approval for a 31-mile extension into North Carolina, supplying gas to Duke Energy and Enbridge. The $6 billion project would deliver 550,000 dekatherms (550 million cubic feet) of natural gas per day, with completion targeted for mid-2028. Environmental groups argue the revised pipeline route requires a new application and Environmental Impact Statement, citing safety and ecological concerns. Meanwhile, Trump’s executive order on energy infrastructure could streamline permitting, but legal challenges remain, including a Feb. 20 hearing in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. (News & Observer)

Midway Prioritizes Rural Identity and Growth Control Amid NC Development Pressures

Midway, NC, incorporated in 2006 to prevent annexation by Winston-Salem, maintains low taxes and strict zoning laws to preserve its rural character. Mayor John Byrum emphasized the town’s focus on low-density housing and small business support, including a planned 20-acre park expansion. Unlike nearby towns facing developer conflicts, Midway has avoided major zoning disputes, keeping commercial growth within small retail centers. Meanwhile, concerns arise statewide after legislative intervention in Summerfield, where lawmakers removed a property from town limits following a zoning dispute. (WUNC)

Exploring North Carolina’s Best Bites and Experiences

North Carolina offers a diverse mix of landscapes, from serene beaches to lively cities and scenic mountains, making it an ideal destination for food and adventure. Axios reporters across the state share their favorite meals and activities, from a grit bowl in Charlotte to matcha in Raleigh, indie movies, Greek cuisine, and local breweries. Whether it's enjoying legendary chicken tenders, indulging in Mediterranean desserts, or savoring an artful tasting menu, these picks showcase the best of North Carolina’s culinary and cultural gems. (Axios Charlotte)