The Onslow Observer: Property Taxes, NASA Astronaut Visit, & More...

Dear Neighbor,

One thing I hear consistently from people across Onslow County is concern about the rising cost of owning a home and the impact property taxes can have on a family’s budget. That’s why I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve on the new Senate Select Committee on Property Tax Reform and take a closer look at what can be done to bring greater transparency and predictability to the process.

As we begin that work, I want to hear from the people directly affected. Good policy starts by listening — to homeowners, small business owners, local officials, and the families who ultimately have to balance these costs around the kitchen table.

This month’s Onslow Observer also gives us an opportunity to celebrate some remarkable people from our community, including Onslow County’s own Christina Koch and Sgt. Daniel Tollefsrud, while sharing updates from my continued work on behalf of our communities.

There is always more work to be done, and I remain committed to making sure Onslow County has a strong voice in Raleigh. Thank you for staying engaged and for giving me the privilege of serving you.

At your service,

Michael Lazzara

North Carolina Senator

SENATE SELECT COMMITTEE ON PROPERTY TAX REFORM

I’m honored to have been appointed to the Senate Select Committee on Property Tax Reform. Thank you to Senate Leader Phil Berger for the opportunity to serve.

Recent increases in local property taxes directly affect homeowners, families, and businesses in Onslow County and across North Carolina. Our committee will examine ways to increase transparency, address rising property tax bills, and pursue long-term reforms that protect taxpayers.

I look forward to working with my colleagues and getting to work on this important issue.

RECOGNITION BY NC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

It’s an honor to be recognized by the NC Chamber for helping make North Carolina a great place to do business.

As a small business owner, I understand firsthand how important it is to have a strong, competitive business climate. I’ll continue working to reduce barriers, encourage investment, and create opportunities for North Carolina businesses and families.

Thank you to the NC Chamber for this recognition and for all you do on behalf of our state’s business community.

WELCOMING ONSLOW COUNTY’S OWN NASA ASTRONAUT, CHRISTINA KOCH, HOME TO NC

It was an honor to join North Carolinians from across the state in welcoming Onslow County’s own Christina Koch home and celebrating the dedication of Christina Hammock Koch Hall at NC State University.

From growing up in Jacksonville to taking an historic journey around the Moon — Christina has made our community, state, and nation proud. This lasting tribute will inspire generations of students to dream big and reach for the stars.

Welcome home, Christina!

ONSLOW COUNTY NATIVE CHRISTINA KOCH HONORED WITH CONGRESSIONAL SPACE MEDAL OF HONOR

Congratulations to Christina and her Artemis II crewmates — Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Jeremy Hansen — on receiving the Congressional Space Medal of Honor for their historic journey around the Moon.

Christina’s courage, skill, and dedication have made North Carolina proud and inspired people around the world. Congratulations, Christina! Onslow County and North Carolina are proud to call you one of our own!

LAZZARA ENDORSED BY NC VALUES COALITION

ENDORSEMENT ALERT 🚨 I’m honored to receive the endorsement of the North Carolina Values Coalition in my campaign for re-election to the State Senate.

I’ll continue working to protect life, strengthen families, and defend the freedoms and values that make North Carolina strong.

ONSLOW COUNTY GOP FORUM

A big thank you to the Onslow County GOP for hosting a great forum and creating an opportunity to hear directly from our citizens.

We had thoughtful discussions on a wide range of issues, including Flock cameras, education, transportation, property taxes, county revenues, data centers, agriculture, and many other concerns impacting our community.

It’s always great to hear directly from the people who live, work, and raise their families here in Onslow County. Listening to our citizens, understanding their concerns, and having honest conversations is an important part of building a stronger community.

The input and perspectives shared will help guide my future decisions and priorities as I work to represent the people of Onslow County.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to attend, participate, and share your thoughts. Your voice matters, and I truly appreciate your willingness to engage in these important conversations! 🇺🇸

CONGRATULATIONS, SGT. TOLLEFSRUD!

Congratulations to Sgt. Daniel Tollefsrud of the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office on being named the Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Law Enforcement Professional of the Year! Thank you for your leadership and continued service to the people of Onslow County.