Pender County attorney announces resignation during board meeting

PENDER COUNTY, N.C. (WWAY) — Pender County’s attorney announced his resignation during a board meeting after the Pledge of Allegiance.

Trey Thurman told commissioners he was stepping down as county attorney, saying he had discussed the decision with the board chairman over the weekend and earlier in the day.

Thurman said he would continue working with staff to make sure “everything gets covered” during the transition.

He thanked the board and prior boards for the opportunity to serve Pender County, calling it a “wonderful privilege.”

Thurman also reflected on his time representing the county, including serving as lead counsel in a case before the U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of Pender County.

Board members thanked Thurman for his service, noting his nearly 30 years working with the county.

The chairman said Thurman had been through “many, many trying times” and wished him well in his next chapter.

Following a closed session, commissioners voted to amend the agenda and appoint an interim law firm following Thurman’s resignation.

A motion was made and approved to waive the rules and amend the agenda. Commissioners then voted to retain the Harzo Law Firm on an interim basis.

The motion passed by a 3-2 vote.

Following the vote, Commissioner Jimmy Tate raised concerns about the process, saying they had not been informed ahead of time about the decision to consider hiring a law firm.

Tate also questioned the lack of a contract and raised concerns about potential conflicts, stating the firm represents Pender County in an ongoing lawsuit filed by the Pender-Topsail Post & Voice

Tate called the process “underhanded” and said it was “very wrong the way it’s been done,” adding that taxpayers are already concerned about potential costs tied to the lawsuit.