Title
Review and provide guidance on the appointment process for the Chatham County ABC Board
Abstract
Introduction & Background: The purpose of the ABC Board is to oversee the operation of the county’s ABC stores. This board is governed by NCGS 18B-700 and bylaws, which state that this committee shall consist of five (5) members appointed by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners who will serve three-year staggered terms.
The Chatham County ABC Board includes five (5) members appointed by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners (BOC). Historically, when vacancies have occurred in BOC-appointed positions, the ABC has conducted its own recruitment and nomination process and forwarded recommended candidates to the Board of Commissioners for consideration. In the 2026 appointment cycle, the ABC reached out to two (2) individuals to apply and did not advertise the vacancies. ABC is recommending one of the individuals for appointment from that process.
Discussion & Analysis: The Board of Commissioners may wish to determine whether future appointments to the ABC Board should continue to follow the current practice of considering candidates recommended by the ABC or whether the appointments should be handled through the County's standard board and committee appointment process.
Under the current approach, the ABC recruits’ applicants, reviews qualifications, conducts interviews, and submits recommended candidates to the Board of Commissioners for appointment consideration. Alternatively, the Board of Commissioners could advertise vacancies through the County's regular board and committee appointment process, receive applications directly, and make appointments in the same manner as other advisory boards and committees.
This discussion provides an opportunity for the Board to clarify its expectations, ensure consistency in appointment practices, and establish a process that promotes transparency, accountability, and alignment with the Board's goals for citizen...
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