Endowment upheaval: Longtime board member fired, new appointee named

Key Changes in the Endowment Board

At a recent meeting on Monday, September 15, the New Hanover County Commissioners made significant changes to the Endowment Board. One long-time board member was removed, and a new individual was appointed in their place. This decision sparked considerable discussion among the commissioners and raised questions about the political nature of the process.

Shannon Winslow was unanimously reappointed to the board, but Spence Broadhurst, a long-standing member, was ousted. The vote to remove Broadhurst was a close one, with a final decision of 3-2. Commissioner Rob Zapple supported Broadhurst’s reappointment, while Commissioner Dane Scalise backed Justin Burgess, a Wilmington-based financial planner. The result was that Burgess was appointed as the newest member of the Endowment Board.

Tensions and Concerns Raised

During the meeting, Commissioner LeAnn Pierce expressed concerns about the pressure she felt from a nominee. She mentioned having a conversation with someone who suggested she was being intimidated into voting for a particular candidate. Pierce emphasized her stance against being bullied or pressured into making a decision. She also revealed that a nominee had warned her that if she did not support them, they would run against her in the future.

In an interview with WECT, Broadhurst addressed these claims, denying any attempts to intimidate Pierce. He highlighted his background as the youngest of four children in a tough neighborhood, stating he had never threatened anyone in his life. According to Broadhurst, his conversation with Pierce was cordial and focused on his potential reappointment to the board.

Political Dynamics and Criticisms

The three Republican commissioners—Bill Rivenbark, Scalise, and Pierce—voted against Broadhurst’s reappointment, while the two Democrats, Zapple and Stephanie Walker, supported him. Broadhurst believes the appointments have become increasingly political rather than based on merit. He argued that no one in the county is more qualified than himself for the position.

Commissioner Scalise pointed out Zapple’s previous public comments criticizing the Endowment. Scalise suggested that Zapple’s criticisms were aligned with his motion to replace a long-standing member of the board. This move, according to Scalise, aimed to bring some changes to the Endowment’s structure.

History and Impact of the Endowment

Since its inception, the Endowment has faced several challenges, including the abrupt resignations of two CEOs. Broadhurst, who has been on the board since its creation, served as the first chair. When asked about the recent changes, he maintained that the mission of the Endowment remains the same.

However, Broadhurst criticized the county commissioners for turning the Endowment into a political issue. He believes this has led to community skepticism and a lack of trust in the organization. Broadhurst emphasized the need for the Endowment to be nonpartisan and to serve all citizens equally, rather than favoring a select few.

Community Expectations and Future Outlook

Broadhurst stressed that the community desires an Endowment that benefits everyone, not just a specific group. He envisioned an organization that lifts all boats, rather than favoring certain individuals. Despite the recent changes, he remains confident in the Endowment’s purpose and its ability to fulfill its mission.

Efforts to obtain statements from the Endowment and Burgess have not yet yielded results. As the situation continues to unfold, the focus remains on ensuring that the Endowment operates in a manner that reflects the best interests of the community.