Humphrey talks flood mitigation and local infrastructure funding
In a recent interview with Neuse News Publisher BJ Murphy, Rep. Chris Humphrey (R) discussed the legislative challenges and successes of this year in Raleigh. The conversation ranged from the state budget to flood mitigation efforts and potential changes in election cycles for local municipalities.
Humphrey described the atmosphere in Raleigh as "hectic" and "chaotic," adding, "From one week to the next we don't know whether we'll be in session or not. So you got to prepare accordingly." The Representative serves the residents of Lenoir, Greene, and Jones counties and chairs the House Insurance Committee.
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Rep. Chris Humphrey responds to Governor Cooper calling the state budget a “blatant violation of the constitution”.
The budget, which passed a little over a week ago, has been a major topic of discussion. Governor Roy Cooper declined to sign it, stating that the budget "seriously shortchanged our schools" and "blatantly violates the Constitution." In contrast, Humphrey, in a joint statement with Senator Perry, emphasized that the budget included "sound investments in education, economic development, infrastructure."
"There's no such thing as a perfect document," Humphrey said. "But overall, you know, trying to help out ten and a half million North Carolina citizens is tough and this budget hits the highlights. It funds education at record numbers, mental health allocations are greater than ever, and state troopers get an 11% pay raise."
Other important issues discussed included local projects and flood mitigation. Humphrey mentioned that $2 billion had been allocated in the budget for water and sewer projects to assist small towns struggling with declining populations and outdated systems. This will help Green County and fund a water project in Pollocksville, among other areas.
Humphrey also talked about the redistricting process and the possibility of moving local elections to even-numbered years to increase turnout and reduce costs. While no firm decisions have been made, the representative indicated that these topics are actively being discussed.
Casinos, a topic "tied to the budget this year," according to Murphy, also came up. Humphrey said that while "wiser minds prevailed" and casinos were removed from the budget, he wouldn't be surprised if the issue resurfaced in future legislative sessions.
The interview concluded with a discussion on flood mitigation, an ongoing concern in areas prone to natural disasters. While details were scant, Humphrey indicated that "a lot of players are involved" and efforts are a "work in progress."
Both Murphy and Humphrey acknowledged the complexities and challenges of serving the public in a time of changing priorities and pressing needs.
Listen to the full interview in podcast form.
WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW ON YOUTUBE
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