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Craig Jackson – March 1, 2024

During the first two weeks of February 2024, BlackwaterReports founder Thom Roddy engaged in a series of discussions with Currituck County Commissioner Selina Jarvis concerning the events surrounding the county manager’s contract. These conversations occurred through various mediums, including video, phone calls, text messages, and an in-person meeting at Hardee’s in Grandy on February 13, 2024.

It’s important to note that while two of these conversations may have been off the record, Jarvis did not explicitly request confidentiality for the first half of the discussion in one instance. Despite ongoing disputes from the county regarding BlackwaterReports’ status as a journalist or media outlet, the ethical considerations surrounding off-the-record statements remain relevant to our reporting practices. BlackwaterReports is committed to upholding ethical standards where applicable.

In cases where a government official indicates involvement or knowledge of public corruption, journalists may have an obligation to report such information in the public interest or to the appropriate authorities. In line with this ethical standard in journalism, we may cautiously address a few off-the-record statements.

On Monday, February 5, 2024, Jarvis informed Roddy of her meeting with the county attorney to review “evidence” against Commissioner Paul Beaumont. Roddy had encouraged Jarvis to examine the evidence, following which Jarvis texted Roddy, stating, “I saw lots of interesting things. Most make their whole scheme even more troublesome. That is it for now.” Subsequently, the term “scheme” replaced “conspiracy” in our reporting, reflecting Jarvis’s language.

There are numerous conflicting statements by county officials regarding the broader discussion of the alleged scheme, including the delivery of notice to County Manager Ike McRee regarding the non-renewal of his contract. Jarvis informed Roddy via text that she had never seen the notice until White provided it on the way to deliver it to McRee, which was corroborated by other commissioners.

During the special board of commissioners meeting on February 15, 2024, Roddy expressed initial agreement with Selina’s remarks about commissioners discussing matters without her and Kitty Etheridge. He said it was a notable moment that later turned sour when Selina redirected her statement by looking at White and stating, “I’m not talking about you.” Roddy expressed disappointment with this shift, feeling that Selina had softened her previous objections directly to him regarding “their scheme.”

During the text message exchange, Roddy encouraged Jarvis to look at the evidence and not rely solely on his account. Jarvis’s distinction between “conspiracy” and “scheme” became more apparent in a text message she sent to Roddy, stating, “Your scheme that you are referencing is not the scheme I am referencing. You are asking me to do exactly what Bob and Megan are asking me to do…blind listen to one side.” This exchange raises concerns, particularly highlighted by another text from Jarvis where she mentioned, “I never began this drama. I was ready to accept whatever contract revision or end they chose.” This statement suggests that Jarvis may be inclined to acquiesce to decisions made by others, which could explain why she’s been excluded from meaningful discussions. Jarvis further expressed her frustration, stating, “The fact is being vice-chair has not led to me being in the loop.”