WAKE COUNTY, N.C. — More than 320 county commissioners, county officials, staff and state legislators gathered in Raleigh June 9-10 for the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) County Advocacy Days 2026, reinforcing the important role that collaboration and relationship-building play in advancing North Carolina’s counties.
Held at the Raleigh Marriott City Center, the NCACC office in the Quorum Center, and the North Carolina Legislative Building, the annual event provided county leaders with valuable opportunities to connect with peers, engage with lawmakers and advocate for policies that strengthen local communities across the state.
County Advocacy Days serves as one of the NCACC’s signature events that brings county officials and state legislators together for meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing North Carolina’s 100 counties.
“Change starts at the local level,” said NCACC President and Perquimans County Commissioner Wallace Nelson. “County Advocacy Days gives county officials an opportunity to come together and ensure the county voice is heard at the General Assembly. By meeting directly with their legislators, county leaders can build relationships, share local perspectives, and advocate for policies that strengthen their communities.”
The event began Tuesday afternoon with steering committee meetings featuring expert presentations and discussions on issues affecting counties, including emergency management and disaster recovery, solid waste management and landfill capacity, public education investments, health and human services policy updates, economic development, and public safety.
Tuesday evening’s dinner provided a unique opportunity for county leaders and legislators to connect in a collaborative setting. The program featured a special panel discussion moderated by Spectrum News Political Anchor Tim Boyum, with political experts Dr. Michael Bitzer, Morgan Jackson, and Paul Shumaker offering insights into North Carolina’s political landscape and the importance of civic engagement and public leadership.
On Wednesday morning, attendees gathered at the Quorum Center for policy briefings and key updates led by the NCACC Advocacy and Policy team before heading to the Legislative Building for meetings with legislators.
“What a great day to share the county story. The conversations that took place during County Advocacy Days help legislators better understand the priorities and challenges facing counties and create opportunities for productive partnerships that benefit communities throughout North Carolina,” said NCACC Executive Director Kevin Leonard.
The two-day event emphasized the value of a unified county voice on issues that impact local governments and residents statewide, demonstrating the strength that comes when counties work together, share experiences and collaborate around common goals. For more information about the Association, visit ncacc.org.
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NCACC County Advocacy Days brings together county leaders and legislators from across North Carolina for an engaging and impactful opportunity to connect, collaborate, and advocate for the future of the state’s counties.
Editors: Print-quality photos may be downloaded for use here. Photos should be credited as follows: Photo courtesy of NCACC.