The Sampson County Government recently  announced the launch of several initiatives designed to foster a strategic and goal-oriented approach to county operations. These new initiatives are being launched as part of an ongoing commitment to improve governance and better serve residents. 

A new set of resolutions are established aiming at aligning the county’s operations with the evolving needs of our communities. An important development occurred during the February budget work session, where the Board of Commissioners (BOC) took a closer look at the county’s priorities and established strategic goals. Through interactive and in-depth discussions, the BOC identified the most critical areas of focus, ensuring that the county’s efforts are in alignment with the needs of our residents and the greater good of our communities. The resolution with officially adopted goals will guide future decision-making.

“This is the first step in achieving what this county needs. We want to be a government that actively plans, listens to our residents and understand their concerns,” said Allen McLamb, Chair of the Board of Commissioners in a press release. “These new goals and initiatives will help us build trust and we will be able to give residents truthful answers and create a more open dialogue.”

To enhance communication, the county will launch the regular Sampson Elected Officials Roundtable meetings. This new forum will bring together elected officials from all levels of government to discuss key issues, share information, and address challenges in a transparent and coordinated manner. By enhancing communication across all branches of government, the Roundtable will serve as a platform for mutual understanding and collective problem-solving.

The county will formally re-establish the Sampson Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) to enhance transportation infrastructure for community benefit and economic growth. The committee will advise local officials on transportation planning, focusing on improving roads and public transit. It will prioritize projects that address infrastructure gaps, improve safety and promote environmental sustainability. By collaborating with various agencies and engaging the public, TAC aims to ensure transportation initiatives meet the needs of residents and foster regional economic development.

In addition, the Commissioner Liaisons are being introduced by the county as part of a new initiative to build stronger connections and enhance communication between local governments and agencies. These liaisons will serve as dedicated points of contact between county commissioners and key stakeholders, including municipal leaders, schools and other agencies. Commissioners are assigned to take the lead in investigating those areas and report back to the full Board of Commissioners.  Individual liaisons exercise no additional authority and cannot bind the board but rather help research and convey information and build relationships in the community. This effort aims to break down silos and foster stronger, more effective partnerships.

As government operations and the demand for services become more complex, the county is making intentional efforts to improve communication, cooperation  and partnerships. The challenges and issues facing the community have grown too large for the county government to address alone. To effectively tackle these problems, the county must collaborate closely with community partners. Sampson County is committed to becoming a proactive and strategic government that better serves its residents through careful planning, cross-agency cooperation, and enhanced communication.