JACKSON – Northampton County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Fannie Greene has been honored for advancing her skills as an elected official. County Manger Kimberly Turner shared the news at Wednesday’s regularly scheduled commissioners meeting in Jackson.

Turner stated that Greene was honored by the NC Association of County Commissioners for meeting the requirements for Mentor Level in the Local Elected Leaders Academy, the highest level of recognition.

The LELA is a partnership with the UNC School of Government, the NC Association of County Commissioners, and the NC League of Municipalities. It offers elected officials the knowledge and skills they need to lead and govern their communities.

Greene was recognized for her participation in educational programs and service to the association.

Greene said upon being notified she had achieved Mentor Level, “My hope is to serve the citizens of Northampton better.”

In other matters, the Board of County Commissioners on Wednesday met with Dr. Jimmy Tate, the new president of Roanoke-Chowan Community College. He explained what R-CCC has to offer the county.

Commissioner Joseph Barrett remarked, “It’s a pleasure to meet you, especially since you didn’t come looking for money.”

The board also granted 28 motor vehicle tax refunds totaling $1,092.14. Most of the refunds were because the owners had sold their vehicles.

The board also approved plans to renovate the old DSS building. Architect Surapon Sujjavanich said he could make the renovations for $2.1 million, a reduction from the originally estimated $3 million.

He said it would house the Veterans Services and other county offices now located in rental spaces.

When fully renovated, Sujjavanich said it will be a ‘green’ building, saving taxpayers on energy costs.