Mid-East Commission

07/13/2026

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Mid-East Commission and staff share the passing of our highly respected Executive Director, Bryant Buck.

For more than 25 years, Mr. Buck served with unwavering dedication, integrity, and a deep commitment to serving the communities, local governments, and citizens of Beaufort, Bertie, Hertford, Martin and Pitt counties. Mr. Buck began his career with Mid-East Commission in the planning department where he served as the Planning Director before becoming the Executive Director. Before joining Mid-East Commission, he served as s Senior Planning Technician with Monroe County Planning Department, Tavernier, Florida bringing a wealth of experience in public administration and a passion for serving communities that would define his distinguished career. He received a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Planning and a Bachelor of Science in Applied Geography from East Carolina University. His visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to public service, and collaborative spirit strengthened our organization and fostered meaningful partnerships among counties, municipalities, state agencies, and community organizations. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Buck guided the Council through periods of growth and change, expanded programs and services, secured resources to meet the evolving needs of our region, and championed initiatives that improved the quality of life for its citizens.
More than the accomplishments achieved during his tenure, Mr. Buck will be remembered for his compassion, wisdom, humility, genuine care for others, and a steadfast commitment to building a stronger future. He was a mentor, colleague, and friend to many, earning the respect and admiration of staff, elected officials, community partners, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
As we mourn this tremendous loss, we also celebrate a life devoted to serving others. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Bryant Buck’s family, friends and loved ones. The Mid-East Commission and staff remain committed to carrying forward the mission and values that Bryant so faithfully upheld. We are grateful for the outpouring of support during this difficult time. Information regarding memorial service will be shared as it becomes available.
In honor of Bryant Buck’s lifelong commitment to public service and the mission of the Mid-East Commission, we request that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Mid-East Commission Development Corporation (MEDC), 1502 N. Market Street, Suite A, Washington, NC 27889. Gifts will support the continuation of initiatives that were deeply meaningful to him and will help carry forward the legacy of service he leaves behind.

03/13/2026

It’s always a pleasure to meet with members of the North Carolina Association of Regional Councils of Government and learn about the key issues affecting our local governments in North Carolina.

03/05/2026

When Sewer Service is Extended, Septic System Abandonment is Required
When providers extend sewer service to new customers, abandonment of septic systems is required.
Why is it important for septic tanks to be abandoned?
1.
Septic systems that are not properly abandoned can cause pollution issues in groundwater and surface water.
2.
Over time the septic tank will deteriorate, which causes a public safety issue. There have been multiple instances of deaths in North Carolina and across the country from people falling into old septic tank pits, including the deaths of children.
North Carolina Wastewater Rules require septic tanks to be properly abandoned:
15A NCAC 18E .1307 WASTEWATER SYSTEM ABANDONMENT
If a wastewater system is abandoned or is otherwise no longer in use, the tanks shall:
(1) have the contents removed by a septage management firm permitted in accordance with G.S. 130A-291.1;
(2) be removed, collapsed, or otherwise rendered unable to retain liquid, and backfilled; and
(3) have the electrical components de-energized and above ground components removed.
It is recommended that local governments inform their Environmental Health Dept. when septic abandonment occurs, so they can update their data systems accordingly. If possible, obtain written documentation from the firm completing the work to submit to the Environmental Health Dept. In the Mid-East Region, Beaufort County is served by Beaufort County Environmental Health, Bertie and Hertford Counties are served by Albemarle Regional Health Services, Martin County is served by Martin-Tyrrell-Washington District Health, and Pitt County is served by Pitt County Environmental Health.
Most property owners are not aware of septic abandonment requirements. Local governments (and other sewer system owners) should make sure septic abandonment requirements are adhered to when extending sewer service, and should keep the Environmental Health Dept. informed of these projects. These best practices will help keep our communities safe.
It is recommended that a septic abandonment requirement is adopted under the local government’s sewer/wastewater ordinance as a condition of service extension. Staff member education should also occur. The Mid-East Commission is available to assist local governments in the region with ordinance work.

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11/10/2025

11/10/2025