Behind Closed Doors: Questioning Transparency at the Lenoir County Board of Elections

During a recent public meeting in Kinston, the Lenoir County Board of Elections entered a closed session to address an election protest filed against Quarla Blackwell, a candidate for city council. The protest, brought by Lenoir County GOP chairman Sean Keenan, alleged that Blackwell, a convicted felon, lied on her candidacy form about her rights being restored.

The board cited “consulting with their attorney” as the reason for the closed session, which lasted approximately 15 minutes. This justification is permitted under North Carolina General Statute § 143-318.11(a)(3), allowing public bodies to meet privately with legal counsel. However, after returning to open session, the board abruptly adjourned the meeting without allowing either party to plead their case or present evidence.

This lack of transparency has raised serious concerns among community members. North Carolina law requires that the general purpose for any closed session be stated in a motion during the open meeting and entered into the minutes, but the board’s actions left many questioning whether proper procedures were followed and whether the public’s right to open government was respected.

The current members of the Lenoir County Board of Elections are:

• Chairman: David Fillippeli Jr

• Secretary: William Gray Jr

• Members: Lucinda Minges, Courtney Patterson, and Marietta Jenkins

  
  

Given the abrupt adjournment and the board’s failure to allow public input or a fair hearing, calls for an investigation into the board’s conduct and commitment to transparency are growing. The community deserves answers and accountability from those entrusted with overseeing the electoral process.