New Hanover Co. Manager makes executive decision; Taking ball home as far as ballpark is concerned

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — New Hanover County Manager Bruce Shell told us late this afternoon that during a meeting between his staff, City of Wilmington staff and Mandalay Entertainment, he made it clear that the county is not interested in working together to bring a ballpark or team to Wilmington. Mandalay is the company proposing bring the team and a new park to the city with the help of economic incentives.

We’re told Shell called county commissioners and got their input before making the announcement at the meeting, therefore there was no vote on the matter.

The move comes after the county encouraged the City of Wilmington not to move forward on a voluntary annexation deal involving an apartment compex developer. The city took the county’s concern under advisement, but approved the deal anyway. That angered county commissioners and the county manager.

County Commissioner Jason Thompson says he was in favor of continuing the talks but understands Shell’s frustration and supports his decision.