UNCW medical school resolution, youth crime funding on NHC commissioners’ agenda

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - New Hanover County commissioners will decide Monday whether to formally back a proposed medical school at UNCW, a move that could bolster the university’s bid to establish the region’s first medical program.

The board meets on May 4 at 4 p.m. to consider a resolution in support of the medical school proposal.

While the county has no direct authority over the proposal, the resolution could strengthen UNCW’s case when it goes before the University of North Carolina Board of Governors in May. The board of governors will make the final decision on whether to authorize the university to begin planning the four-year medical degree program.

UNCW is seeking to address physician shortages in southeastern and rural North Carolina. The university plans to admit about 60 students in August 2029 if approved, with a goal of enrolling a full class of 120 students by August 2033.

During that same meeting, commissioners will also vote on more than half a million dollars in funding for youth crime prevention programs across New Hanover County.

The Juvenile Crime Prevention Council is seeking $547,770 for the fiscal year 2026-2027 to continue programs targeting at-risk youth. The funding level matches what commissioners approved in April 2025 for a two-year cycle.

Youth Empowerment Services would receive the largest share at $406,345. Communities in Schools would get $92,345 for teen court and mediation programs. Coastal Horizons would receive $39,180 for parenting training, and $9,900 would go to JCPC administration.

According to the agenda, the money would support psychological assessments, counseling, teen court, substance abuse services and other intervention programs run by local organizations.

All programs were reviewed in January and found to meet state compliance standards, officials said.

The board will also hear from New Hanover Community Endowment leaders about the organization’s recent work. Chair Shannon Winslow and President Sophie Dagenais are scheduled to present an update.

The full meeting agenda is available here.