Carolina Beach leaders focus on staffing, budget recovery after cyberattacks

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The Town of Carolina Beach is taking a closer look at its budget after two cyberattacks cost the town nearly half a million dollars.

Town leaders recently held an open house budget meeting following the cyberattacks, which totaled $488,000 in losses.

Town Manager Bruce Oakley said the proposed budget avoids cuts to local funds by postponing or eliminating several projects and freezing some hiring positions.

A major focus in the proposed budget is improving recruitment and retention efforts for public works employees, along with police and fire personnel.

Mayor Lynn Barbee said town leaders want to ensure employees continue to feel supported despite the financial setback.

“But the one thing that consistently comes up is benefits,” Barbee said. “And I think that’s why I’m excited to see you guys getting more competitive. We’re probably never going to be able to equal the state jobs or maybe even the county jobs, but the closer we come, the better off we are.”

The proposed budget also includes a 2.95-cent tax increase to help cover $1 million for the boardwalk land purchase. Town leaders say the remaining cost is expected to be funded through loans and grants.