Thom Roddy – December 31, 2024

Over the past several months, I have made multiple appeals to County Manager Rebecca Gay and Commissioner Paul O’Neal to address the unconstitutional restrictions imposed on me as a citizen and journalist, which have denied my right to due process and limited my access to the county complex. These restrictions not only violate my constitutional rights but also set a dangerous precedent for how local government interacts with its citizens. Despite my efforts to resolve this matter amicably, including providing evidence and citing legal protections, my concerns have been dismissed or inadequately addressed.

I urge Rebecca Gay and Paul O’Neal to take this issue seriously and uphold their responsibilities to ensure that all citizens are treated fairly, equally, and in accordance with the law. Denying due process undermines the very principles of our democracy, and as public servants, it is their duty to correct these injustices. Transparency and accountability are non-negotiable in government. I will continue to seek justice, not only for myself but to ensure these practices do not harm others in the future.

The County has a Code of Ethics, Paul and Gay appear to be in violation of three articles:

Sec. 2-85. – of the Currituck County Code of Ethics, specifically states that “County commissioners shall support the Constitution of the United States, the Constitution of North Carolina and the laws enacted by the Congress of the United States and the General Assembly pursuant thereto.” Sec. 2-87.(b), goes on to say “County commissioners should respect and comply with the law and should conduct themselves at all times in a manner that promotes public confidence in the integrity of the office of county commissioner and of county government.” And Sec. 2-88.d. “County commissioners should accord to every person who is legally interested in a proceeding before the commission full right to be heard according to law.”