NC Ports Authority dinner for 15 cost about $1,500

WILMINGTON, NC (AP) — A spokesman says the NC State Ports Authority will develop new policies for meals and expenses after a steak house dinner for 15 cost more than $1,500 for food.

The StarNews of Wilmington reported the dinner was held in January at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar on the night before the board’s meeting in Charlotte.

Attending the meeting were members of the Ports Authority board from around the state, along with state Transportation Secretary Gene Conti and his wife.

Transportation Department spokesman Ted Vaden says DOT will work with the authority on policies. DOT board members receive a per diem and pay for any difference between that amount and meals.

He says the Ports Authority’s previous practice of hosting board meetings was consistent with state laws.