The Onslow Observer: Public Safety, Local Investments, & More...

Sen. Michael Lazzara
Sep 13, 2025
3 min read

Dear Neighbor,

It has been a full and meaningful month, both here at home and in Raleigh. From working on public safety issues to celebrating new investments in our local economy, I remain focused on advancing policies that strengthen our communities and support the hardworking families of Onslow County.

In this newsletter, you’ll find updates on recent developments, local projects, and opportunities that matter for our future. I encourage you to take a few minutes to look through them, and as always, please know that my office is here to serve you.

It’s an honor to represent you in the North Carolina Senate, and I am grateful for your trust.

At your service,

Michael Lazzara

North Carolina Senator

STATEMENT ON CHARLOTTE TRANSIT MURDER

What happened in Charlotte is beyond heartbreaking — it is outrageous. The brutal murder of an innocent woman has stolen a precious life and left families devastated, once again, by violent criminals who have no respect for the law, for life, or for our communities.

My heartfelt prayers are with Iryna Zarutska’s family during this unimaginable time of loss. May they find strength and comfort in the days ahead.

This cannot continue. North Carolina must send a clear message: if you commit a violent crime, you will be held fully accountable. We must strengthen our laws to ensure criminals face real consequences — not a revolving door of leniency that puts our citizens at risk.

Our families, our neighborhoods, and our future deserve better. Justice must be more than a word — it must be enforced. I remain committed to advancing stronger laws that protect the innocent and punish the guilty.

Enough is enough.

WE WILL NEVER FORGET.

On September 11, 2001, America was attacked — but America did not fall. We remember the innocent lives taken, the heroes who ran toward danger, and the strength of a nation that will never bow to terror.

SWANSBORO MAIN STREET DOCK RECEIVES STATE GRANT

I’m grateful to announce that Swansboro’s Main Street Dock project has been awarded over $127k in funding through the 2025 NC Public Beach & Coastal Waterfront Access Grant Program.

This critical investment will replace the existing pedestrian, fishing, and dinghy day dock — ensuring safer, more accessible waterfront access for residents and visitors. I’m proud to support projects like this that boost tourism, preserve our coastal heritage, and strengthen our local economy.

INTERIM COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS

I’m honored to be appointed to serve on several interim oversight committees for the 2025-26 session, including Capital Improvements, Justice & Public Safety, the State Lottery, Transportation, and as co-chair of Unemployment Insurance.

These committees will be hard at work studying key issues that impact our state’s future. I look forward to bringing Eastern North Carolina’s voice to the table and advancing policies that strengthen public safety, infrastructure, and economic opportunity.

NEW SKILLED TRADES ACADEMY

I recently had the privilege of joining Hiring Our Heroes, the Lowe’s Foundation, and Coastal Carolina Community College for the launch of the Skilled Trades Academy right here in our community.

As a Marine veteran, I know the value our service members and military families bring to the workforce. This program opens new doors in the skilled trades, providing real career opportunities that strengthen both our local economy and the futures of those who served.

I'm proud to stand with so many partners committed to supporting our veterans, service members, and their families. Together, we are building stronger communities and brighter futures.

RECORD TOURISM SPENDING IN ONSLOW COUNTY

This past year, visitors to Onslow County spent a RECORD-BREAKING $415.3 million — supporting 2,464 local jobs and contributing nearly $95 million in payroll.

These numbers show real opportunity and economic strength for our community. Thanks to the dedication of our hospitality partners and creative marketing like the ‘Inspired by Onslow’ campaign, we continue to shine in statewide rankings.

These efforts also translated into $14.75 million in local tax revenue, saving each resident about $135 in taxes. A win for every family in Onslow County!

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS