OurTown

This summer, we look to officially break ground on the GAF Community Splash Pad, a
project that has been long anticipated and deeply rooted in community vision,
partnership, and generosity. This exciting addition to Burgaw represents more than
just a new recreational amenity —it reflects who we are and what we can accomplish
together.
The splash pad will provide a safe, accessible, and welcoming space for families,
children, and visitors to gather, cool off, and create lasting memories during our
warm North Carolina summers. It ’s the kind of place where laughter echoes,
friendships grow, and simple moments turn into lifelong memories.
What makes this project even more meaningful is how it has come to life. The GAF
Community Splash Pad is being made possible entirely through private donations and
sponsorships led by the Parks Foundation of Burgaw. This incredible show of support
speaks volumes about the pride and investment people have in our community.
We are especially grateful to GAF, a company that has called Burgaw home for more
than 30 years. Their generous financial support, along with their donation of
innovative materials, reflects a deep commitment to giving back and strengthening
the place we all share. It’s partnerships like this that help move Burgaw forward while
honoring the values that make us unique.
I also want to recognize the many contributors who stepped forward to make this
project possible—from construction partners to material providers. Their willingness
to give back demonstrates the power of collaboration
and the impact of community-driven projects.
As your mayor, I believe strongly that investments like
this are essential to maintaining and enhancing our
quality of life.
We look forward to celebrating the progress of this
project with you and, soon enough, seeing our
community come together to enjoy this wonderful
new space.
With appreciation and excitement for what’s ahead,
Mayor Dawson
NEWSLETTER
Our T own
Published weekly by the Town of Burgaw | April 13-17, 2026
Shred &
E-Recycling
Event
Making a Splash in Burgaw
Mayor Dawson’s Latest Message from the Community Connection Blog on the Town Website
Thursday, April 23
4-6 PM
Town Hall Parking Lot
109 N. Walker Street
Call 910-663-3441
for questions.
Free on-site shredding and
electronics drop-off.
Drive-thru event.
No appointment necessary.

Our Town | Page 2
We’re inviting residents and
visitors to share your favorite
photos from around town!
Whether it ’s a piece of history,
quiet street, local landmarks,
recent events, nature scenes, or
signs of spring in your own
neighborhood—we’d love to see
Burgaw through your eyes. No
need for professional photos —
phones capture amazing moments,
too!
Please submit photos, along with
your name for photo credit, to the
Town Clerk at
kwells@burgawnc.gov.
Please note, by submitting your
photos, you grant permission for
the Town of Burgaw to potentially
feature them in our newsletter,
social media,
marketing
materials, and
on the Town ’s
website.
From historic
moments to everyday
beauty, help us tell
Burgaw’s story
Highlights from the April 14th Town Council Meeting
Council Meeting Recap
Investing in Our Team
Town staff were recognized for completing professional training to
better serve our residents. Their commitment to growth strengthens
our entire community.
Recognizing Autism Acceptance Month
April was proclaimed as National Autism Acceptance Month. We were
proud to recognize local Cub Scouts and an upcoming community
awareness event on April 18. Let ’s continue to promote acceptance,
celebrate neurodiversity, and support inclusion.
Blueberry Festival Safety Enhancements
In partnership with NCDOT, NC Highway 53 will be closed within the
festival footprint on June 20 to create a safer, vehicle -free
environment. Additional nearby street closures were also approved.
Vendors and residents will receive detailed access information as the
event approaches.
Supporting Community Traditions
The Council approved requests for the annual Pender Spring Fest on
May 2. Don ’t miss the street dance and ice cream social on May 1—
great opportunities to come together and celebrate!
New Alerts & Notification System
Stay informed with real -time updates on emergencies, road closures,
weather, and more. Sign up today at burgawnc.gov to customize your
notifications.
Progress in Motion
Ongoing improvements include Courthouse Avenue upgrades, water
line replacements, and expanded crosswalks supporting the Osgood
Canal Greenway and Urban Trail.
New Name, Same Commitment
The Town’s governing body will now be known as the Burgaw Town
Council, with elected officials serving as Council Members. This change
reflects title only—our commitment remains the same.
Budget Planning Underway
Preparation for the FY 2026–2027 budget continues. The Budget Work
Session is scheduled for April 27 at 9 AM at the Burgaw Town Center.
Prioritizing Safety
Council is requesting a speed limit reduction from 45 mph to 35 mph
along NC Highway 53 between US 117 and Stag Park Road to enhance
safety.

Our Town | Page 3
UPCOMING
NOTI CE OF
SPECIAL MEETI NG
The Burgaw Town Council will hold a special
meeting on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 9:00
AM for the purpose of conducting a Budget
Work Session in preparation of the FY 2026-
2027 budget. Council will resume said
meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 9:00
AM, if necessary. This meeting will be held at
the Burgaw Town Center, 108 E. Wilmington
Street, Burgaw. All interested parties are
invited to attend.
April 23 | 4:00 PM-6:00 PM
Spring Shred & E-Recycle Event
Free, drive-thru event
Town Hall Parking Lot
April 27-28 | 9:00 AM
Town Council Special Meeting: Budget Work
Session
Burgaw Town Center
May 1 | 8:30 AM
Beautification Committee Regular Meeting
Burgaw Town Center
May 4 | 9:00 AM
Town Council Special Meeting: Work Session
Burgaw Town Center
May 7 | 8:30 AM
Tourism Development Authority Regular
Meeting
Burgaw Visitor Center
May 7 | 12:00 PM
National Day of Prayer
Courthouse Square
May 9 | 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Tea Party in the Park
Free for ages 0-7
Hankins Park
The Town of Burgaw Public Services Department
has transitioned to a new pickup schedule for yard debris,
white goods and construction and demolition (C&D):
• Yard Debris Pickup will occur on Mondays and Fridays
• White Goods/C&D Pickup will occur on Wednesdays (aligned
with regular garbage collection)
Important reminders!
• Black lawn/plastic bags with leaves/pine needles will be
picked up Wednesdays with white goods
• Compostable/paper bags with leaves/pine needles will be
picked up Mondays & Fridays with yard debris
Why the difference?
Plastic bags are not compostable and cannot be processed with
yard debris. To prevent contamination and ensure proper disposal,
these types of bags must be collected separately, which is why our
crews will collect them along with white goods/C&D.
Compostable and paper bags can be safely processed with yard
debris, allowing them to be collected on yard debris days - We
encourage residents to make the switch and help us keep Burgaw
clean and green!
We appreciate everyone ’s patience as we work to
better serve our community.
Reminder from our Public Services Department
New Pickup Schedule

Our Town | Page 4
The Burgaw Police
Department and
Burgaw Fire
Department look
forward to being
part of the
community
event!
The Town of Burgaw proudly recognizes April 2026 as National Autism Acceptance Month, with April 2 observed as
World Autism Awareness Day, as proclaimed by Mayor Dawson at the April Town Council Meeting. An official
proclamation was presented to Burgaw Cub Scout Pack 247, who are helping organize the upcoming community
awareness event.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong condition that affects individuals of all backgrounds, and the Town
acknowledges the meaningful contributions autistic individuals bring
to our community through their unique perspectives and talents. This
recognition emphasizes the importance of fostering understanding,
inclusion, and equal opportunities for all.
The Town is proud to support and commend the dedicated
community members who have stepped up to organize the Autism
Awareness Community Event to be held on Courthouse Avenue on
Saturday, April 18th. This event is open to everyone and offers
opportunities for education, access to resources, and meaningful
community connection, all while promoting acceptance and
understanding.
Burgaw recognizes April as Autism Awareness Month
Town Public Safety
Departments Proudly
Support Autism
Acceptance Month

Our Town | Page 5
In addition to many town employees attending the
Records Management Workshop training provided
by the North Carolina Department of Natural and
Cultural Resources, several departmental
employees recently completed professional
development courses and certifications in various
areas.
These efforts reflect the Town ’s continued
investment in its employees and highlight the
dedication shown by our staff in better serving the
community.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Mayday/Safety & Survival & RIC Class/Certification
• Joseph Williams, Jr. – Fulltime Captain
• Nicole Carlisle – Volunteer
• Ivey English – Volunteer
• Jack Shortell – Fulltime Firefighter
• Johnny Ryan – Volunteer
HEN Engine Crew Clinic Class
• Johnathan Prevatte – Chief
• Joseph Williams, Jr. – Fulltime Captain
• Cameron Moniack – Fulltime Engineer
• Giovanni Sanzo – Fulltime Captain
• Reagan Roberts – Fulltime Engineer
• Matthew Wheeler – Fulltime Engineer
• Johnny Ryan – Volunteer
• Gunner Getz Jr.— Volunteer
Fire & Life Safety Educators Conference
• Joseph Smith, Jr. – Fulltime Engineer
Fire Prevention School
• MaryBeth Kratovel – Fire Marshal
POLICE DEPARTMENT
ASP Instructor Certification
• Matthew Murdock – SRO
• Ronnie Kennedy – Patrol Sergeant
Investigating Crimes in Long Term Care Facilities
Course
• Demetria Williams – Patrol Officer
Chiefs Leadership Academy
• James Rowell – Police Chief
PUBLIC SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Collections 1 Certification
• Jeff Coenen – Utility Technician
• Glenn Sholar – Water & Sewer Maintenance
Worker
• Ramiro Castaneda – Water & Sewer
Superintendent, Trainee
Municipal Heavy Equipment Operator Class
• Michael Krebs – Equipment Operator
• Rey Castaneda – Facilities & Grounds
Superintendent
ADMINISTRATION
Municipal and County Administration
• Kimberly Rivenbark – HR Director
Investing in our
employees to better
serve our community
Training
in Action
Burgaw Firefighters
participating in the
HEN Engine Crew
Clinic, captured by
Nick Photography.

Our Town | Page 6
Burgaw Parks, Recreation & Tourism Activities and Events
Tea, Treats & Tiny Smiles Await at Tea Party in the Park!
Families are invited to enjoy a charming morning outdoors at the upcoming Tea Party in the Park, a free, drop -in event
designed especially for young children and their caregivers. This casual gathering offers a relaxed and playful
atmosphere perfect for little ones to explore, play, and enjoy time together.
The event will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Hankins Park. Open to children from
birth to age seven, attendees are welcome to stop by at any time during the event.
Guests can look forward to a variety of fun activities including face painting, inflatables, games, and more, along with
light refreshments such as tea, juice, cookies, and ice cream.
No registration or fee is required—just bring your little ones and enjoy a sweet morning in the park! For questions, call
910-300-6401 or email recreation@burgawnc.gov.
Don’t wait!
Secure your spot today!
Register online at
burgawnc.gov/camp
Did You Know?
Burgaw has a walking tour!
Shake off the winter blues and enjoy a night of music, dancing,
and springtime fun at Burgaw ’s Adult Spring Prom on Saturday,
May 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Historic Burgaw Train Depot.
This 21+ event will feature music by Acclaimed DJ, hors d’oeuvres
by Diamond Catering, and beverages from Burgaw Brewing.
Tickets are $30 per person and include three drink tickets,
refreshments, and full access to the evening’s entertainment.
Make plans to dress up, grab your friends, and enjoy a lively night
in downtown Burgaw. Register online at burgawnc.gov/prom.
Music, Dancing & Spring Vibes!
Take a walk through history with
Burgaw’s self-guided walking tour,
featuring historic homes, notable
buildings, and local landmarks
throughout the community.
This at-your-own-pace experience
offers a unique way to explore the
charm and heritage of our town
while enjoying the outdoors.
Brochures are available at Town
Hall to help guide your journey.
Summer is just around the corner, and our camps are filling up fast! We’re excited
to share that Weeks 2, 3, and 4 still have openings—but spots won’t last long. Our
department is happy to announce that, due to limited registrations, we will now
open the camp to ages 6 -13. If you have a child already enrolled in weeks 1 or 5,
call our office directly to discuss availability.
Give your child a summer they ’ll never forget! Our camp is packed with exciting
activities, new friendships, outdoor adventures, games, and creative fun designed
to keep kids active, engaged, and smiling all day long.
Whether they love sports, arts, or just being part of the action, there ’s something
for everyone. It’s the perfect way to make lasting memories while school is out.
We can’t wait to see you soon, friends!
Summer Camp is now open to ages 6-13!
Grab your friends!
Adult Prom is May 16th

Save the Date! T ouch A Truck is back in action!
Join us for a fun, hands-on Touch a Truck event on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Pender Memorial
Park, 601 S. Smith Street!
Hosted by the Town of Burgaw Fire Marshal and Pender County Fire Marshals ’ Office, this family -friendly event gives
attendees the chance to explore fire trucks, police vehicles, forestry equipment, and more —while meeting the
professionals who serve our community every day.
Enjoy interactive activities for all ages and food trucks on -site.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to learn, explore, and
connect with your local first responders!
B U R G A W F I R E D E P A R T M E N T N E W S
Our Town | Page 7
We are excited to announce that registration is now officially open for the 2026
Aiden C. Radke Junior Firefighter Camp, hosted by the Burgaw Fire Department!
This hands -on, action -packed camp gives kids a unique opportunity to learn the
basics of fire safety, hands -only CPR/first aid, and tool utilization —all while enjoying
fun water activities and interactive experiences with our firefighters. It ’s a great way
for participants to build confidence, learn important life skills, and make lasting
memories.
Camp sessions are available for ages 7–10 and 11–14, and each session will be
limited to 25 participants, so early registration is encouraged. The deadline to
register is May 30, 2026.
We look forward to welcoming this year ’s group of junior firefighters and can ’t wait
to see everyone this summer!
Camp Dates
June 22-23: Ages 7-10
June 25-26: Ages 11-14
June 29-30: Ages 7-10
$30 Fee Includes:
T-shirt
Water Bottle
Lunch Both Days
Register Today!
Link to register can be
found on the town’s
website under the news
article on the homepage
burgawnc.gov
Aiden C. Radke Junior Firefighter Camp returns this summer

Mayor
Olivia Dawson
Mayor Pro Tem
James Malloy
Council Members
Bill George
William Rivenbark
Michael Pearsall
Myra McDuffie
Town Manager
James H. Gantt
Town Clerk
Kristin J. Wells
Town Attorney
Norwood P. Blanchard, III
Town Hall
109 N. Walker St.
Burgaw, NC 28425
910-259-2151
mail@burgawnc.gov
www.burgawnc.gov
Office Hours
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday-Friday
PUBLIC WORKS
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
NUMBER
PHONE # 910-470-0457
This phone is only answered after
hours, between 4:30 PM - 7:30 AM,
and is for water and sewer
emergencies only . Unless Public
Works has been given prior notice
from Town Hall, Public Works
cannot turn your water on due to
non-payment shut off.
Utilities
663-3445
Parks & Town Events
300-6401
Human Resources
663-3444
Permitting & Inspections
663-3452
Public Works Department
259-2901
Police Department
Non-Emergency
259-4924
Fire Department
Non-Emergency
259-7494
Elected & Appointed
Officials
Connect with us!
Town Council Meetings
Second Tuesday of every month at 4:30 PM
Public Forum/Public Hearings at 5:30 PM
Burgaw Town Center, 108 E. Wilmington St.
Planning Board Meetings
Third Thursday of every month at 5:30 PM
Burgaw Town Center, 108 E. Wilmington St.
Tourism Development Authority Meetings
First Thursday of every month at 8:30 AM
Burgaw Visitor Center (Old Jail)
106 E. Wilmington St.
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee
Meetings
Second Monday of February, May, August,
November at 5:30 PM
Burgaw Visitor Center (Old Jail)
106 E. Wilmington St.
Beautification Committee Meetings
First Friday of every month at 8:30 AM
Burgaw Town Center, 108 E. Wilmington St.
CURRENT MEETI NG
SCHED ULE
All meetings listed above are open to
the public; oral and written
comments always welcome.
Meeting agendas can be found on the
town’s website at BurgawNC.gov.
Notices for cancelations and special
called meetings will be posted on the
town’s website and weekly
newsletter when necessary.
For questions or assistance, please
contact the Town Clerk at 910-663-
3441 or kwells@burgawnc.gov.