OurTown

NEWSLETTER
Our T own
Published weekly by the Town of Burgaw | May 11-15, 2026
NOW ACCEPTING
APPLICATIONS
Y ou’re invited to join us for Conversation,
Community Connections, and Coffee
Community members are invited to join town staff, local
leaders, and community partners for a casual morning of
Coffee & Conversation on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 8:30 AM
at the Burgaw Town Center, located at 108 E. Wilmington
Street.
The gathering is designed to bring the community together in
a relaxed setting to share updates, discuss upcoming projects
and events, exchange ideas, and stay connected with all that is
happening in Burgaw. Whether you have updates to share
with the community or simply want to listen to stay in the
know, everyone is welcome to attend, enjoy a cup of coffee,
and take part in the conversations.
Free concert series. Food trucks available. Hosted by the Town of Burgaw and Pender County Parks & Recreation.
A special thank you goes to Brown Dog
Coffee Company for generously providing
coffee for these morning gatherings.
Tourism Development Authority
We are currently accepting applications to fill one
(1) vacancy on the Burgaw Tourism Development
Authority (TDA). This volunteer opportunity is ideal
for individuals who are passionate about our
community and want to help promote all that
makes Burgaw special.
The Tourism Development Authority works to
support tourism -related initiatives, market local
attractions and events, and help strengthen
Burgaw’s economy and visibility as a destination.
From celebrating our rich history and small -town
charm to supporting events and local businesses,
the TDA plays an important role in showcasing our
community.
Burgaw residents, business owners, and
individuals with an interest in tourism, marketing,
community development, or local promotion are
encouraged to apply. Visit burgawnc.gov for more
information and application to apply.
Monday, May 25, 2026 | 10:00 AM
Courthouse Square near the corner of
Fremont & Wright Streets
Memorial Day Ceremony

Our Town | Page 2
UPCOMING
May 16 | 7:00 PM
Adult Prom
Advance tickets required
Historic Train Depot
May 19 | 8:30 AM
Coffee & Conversation
Burgaw Town Center
May 20 | 12:00 PM
Senior Lunch & Learn
Burgaw Town Center
May 21 | 5:30 PM
Board of Adjustment Special Meeting
Planning Board Meeting
Burgaw Town Center
May 21 | 6:30-8:30 PM
Summer on the S quare Concert
Courthouse Square
May 25
Town offices closed in observance of
Memorial Day
May 25 | 10:00 AM
Memorial Day Ceremony
Courthouse Square near the corner of Wright
and Fremont Streets
June 1 | 9:00 AM
Town Council Special Meeting:
Budget Work Session
Burgaw Town Center
June 4 | 8:30 AM
Tourism Development Authority Meeting
Burgaw Visitor Center
Notice is hereby given that the Town of Burgaw Board of Adjustment will hold a quasi -judicial hearing during a Special Meeting o n
Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 5:30 PM at the Burgaw Town Center, located at 108 E. Wilmington Street, Burgaw, North Carolina, to
consider the following matter: A request by applicant Crystal Batts for a variance from Section 8.13 – Dimensional Requirements of
the Town of Burgaw Unified Development Ordinance. The applicant is requesting a thirty (30) foot reduction to the required fo rty
(40) foot rear-yard setback to allow for the construction of an accessory structure/garage. Contact Ron Meredith, Planning Direc tor,
910-663-3452.
P U B L I C N OT I C E
K9 Omen has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks
to a charitable donation from non -profit organization Vested
Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Omen’s vest was sponsored by Barbara
Steinberg of the Steinberg Family Foundation, Paramus, NJ and
embroidered with the sentiment “Gifted by the Steinberg Family
Foundation”.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3)
charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective
vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and
related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially
lifesaving body armor for four -legged K9 officers is U.S. made,
custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice (NIJ)
certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has
provided over 6,513 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50
states, made possible by both private and corporate donations.
The program is open to U.S. dogs at least 20 months old and
actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related
agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate.
There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout
the United States.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., accepts tax -deductible contributions in any
amount, while a single donation of $1,050 will sponsor one vest. Each
vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4 -5 lbs., and comes
with a five -year warranty. For more information or to learn about
volunteer opportunities, please call (508) 824 -6978. Vested Interest in
K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations
at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9,
East Taunton, MA 02718.
Burgaw Police Department’s K9 Omen
has received donation of body armor

Our Town | Page 3
Highlights from the May 12th Town Council Meeting
It was also acknowledged during the meeting, several
recognitions took place at the NC League of Municipalities ’
Annual Conference, including the formal presentation of a
resolution acknowledging the Council ’s Commitment to Civility.
Mayor Olivia Dawson and Mayor Pro -Tem James Malloy were
also recognized for their leadership and service. Additionally,
Police Chief Jim Hock was included in the NC League of
Municipalities’ 2025 Retirement Resolutions honoring his
dedication and contributions to the town during his tenure with
the Burgaw Police Department.
Other business before the Council included the consideration and approval of a request from The 1865 Society of
Pender County to waive the rental fee for use of the Historic Train Depot to host a community event featuring Jaki
Shelton Green, the ninth Poet Laureate of North Carolina, on the evening prior to the Juneteenth Celebration
scheduled for Saturday, June 27.
Council also approved a major subdivision request for property located south of Henry Brown Road and north of NC
Highway 53, allowing for the development of a proposed 75-lot single-family detached residential community.
In infrastructure and planning updates, Council received copies of the Town ’s proposed Stormwater Master Plan
following months of data compilation, field surveying, and evaluation of existing infrastructure by engineering
consultants. The plan is intended to serve as a long -term planning tool to identify drainage and flooding concerns,
assess stormwater infrastructure needs, and help guide future improvements aimed at better managing stormwater
runoff throughout the community. Formal consideration of adoption is anticipated in the coming months.
COUNCIL MEETING RECAP
Recognizing those who serve our town
Council continues focus on
community growth and planning
During the recent Town Council meeting, several recognitions and achievements
were acknowledged highlighting employee accomplishments, professional
development, and community service.
The Burgaw Fire Department recognized several members for training and
certification accomplishments, including:
• Mike Willingmyre and Joseph Williams, Jr. for obtaining their Class B
Licenses
• MaryBeth Kratovel for attending the Safe Kids Conference
• Nicole Carlisle, Johnny Ryan, Ivey English, Joseph Williams, and Jack
Shortell completed Mayday, Safety & Survival Certification training
• Fire Chief Johnathan Prevatte for completing Driver Operator: Pumps
& Mobile Water Supply and Instructor Qualifications certifications
• Department personnel who attended the 1st Due Operations
Conference
• Special recognition of Thomas Lindsay for 55 years in the fire service —
see article honoring his dedication and service on the following page

Our Town | Page 4
The Burgaw Town Council proudly recognized Thomas “Tommy” Lindsay during the May 12, 2026 Town
Council meeting for an incredible 55 years of dedication and commitment to the fire service, including 47
years of faithful service with the Town of Burgaw.
Tommy began his fire service career in 1971 and has served communities throughout the region over the
years, including the City of Wilmington and Rocky Point, before ultimately making Burgaw his long -term
home in public service. Throughout his distinguished career, Tommy has served in numerous roles within the
fire service, including firefighter, rescue operations, and leadership positions.
Over the course of five decades, Tommy has witnessed firsthand the tremendous evolution of the fire service
— from advancements in equipment and technology to enhanced training, safety standards, and emergency
response capabilities. Through every change, his commitment to serving others and supporting the
department has remained constant.
Known for his wealth of knowledge and experience, Tommy continues to play an important role within the
Burgaw Fire Department today. He assists with maintaining trucks and equipment and continues to serve as a
driver whenever needed, always willing to step in and help wherever he can.
Town officials shared that Tommy’s passion for the fire service is evident in everything he does and noted that
his dedication and servant-hearted attitude have left a lasting impact on the department and the community.
Along with special recognition from the Burgaw Fire Department, Mayor Dawson formally presented Tommy
with appreciation and gratitude on May 12, 2026, for his outstanding dedication, faithful service, and
enduring contributions to the community.
Thank you for 55 years of
unwa vering dedication,
sacrifice, and service to
protecting our community
honoring Thomas Lindsay for 55
dedicated Years in the Fire Service

Tourism is More Than Visitors—It’s Community
Mayor Dawson’s Latest Message from the Community Connection Blog on the Town Website
Our Town | Page 5
Tourism helps tell the story of a community and creates opportunities for that story to become economic
growth.
Tourism is much more than vacations and weekend getaways. It is one of the ways communities like Burgaw
and Pender County showcase what makes us unique while supporting local businesses, preserving our
culture, and investing back into the places we call home.
A Tourism Development Authority, or TDA, is responsible for managing tourism -related funding, generated
through occupancy taxes paid by visitors staying in hotels, inns, vacation rentals, and other overnight
accommodations. Those dollars are then reinvested directly into promoting tourism and enhancing the
visitor experience.
What makes that important is this: tourism-generated revenue helps support our local economy.
When visitors come to our community, they shop in our stores, dine in our restaurants, stay in our
accommodations, explore our historic downtowns, attend festivals, visit farms and breweries, and discover
our natural beauty. In return, local businesses grow, jobs are created, and communities become stronger and
more vibrant.
Tourism also gives us the opportunity to celebrate who we are.
In Burgaw and Pender County, tourism is rooted in authenticity. It ’s found in our small -town hospitality, our
coastal charm, our agricultural heritage, our arts community, and the outdoor experiences that make this
area special.
From the courthouse square in downtown Burgaw to our beaches and waterways, tourism allows us to share
our story with visitors while deepening community pride among residents.
A strong Tourism Development Authority helps bring those experiences to life through marketing,
partnerships, event support, destination development, and long-term planning.
Whether it ’s promoting agritourism, supporting local festivals, enhancing downtown experiences, or
encouraging stewardship through outdoor recreation, the work of tourism is about building a destination
people want to visit—and a community residents are proud to call home.
Tourism is not just about attracting people here for a few days. It is about creating sustainable economic
opportunities, preserving community character, and investing in the future of our towns and county.
At its best, tourism reminds us that the things we value every day —our history, culture, landscapes,
businesses, and people—are also the very things others travel to experience.
And that is something worth investing in.
Mayor Dawson
COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Our Town | Page 6
Burgaw Parks, Recreation & Tourism Activities and Events
Special Thanks
to everyone who came out to
enjoy our Tea Party in the
Park! We appreciate our
friends with Pender-Topsail
Post & Voice for capturing
these amazing photos of the
fun!
Blueberry Bingo Night is coming to the Burgaw Train
Depot, and the community is invited to join in on an
evening of fun, laughter, and a little friendly competition.
The event will take place on Tuesday, June 16, from 6:00
PM to 7:00 PM at the Burgaw Train Depot. Participants
can enjoy multiple rounds of bingo while celebrating
Burgaw’s blueberry spirit in a festive atmosphere.
Registration is $10, and participants may play a
maximum of three cards per person. Attendees are also
encouraged to get into the fun by dressing in all things
blue!
Get your tickets now and register online at
burgawnc.gov/bingo.
Blueberry Bingo Night is another exciting way for
residents and visitors to come together, enjoy the
community, and celebrate all things blueberry!
Bingo, Blueberries &
Burgaw Fun!

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 Services
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 Board
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.