WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - New Hanover County commissioners unanimously approved a contract for a new patrol boat during their meeting on Monday, Dec. 15.
The 31-foot vessel will cost more than $650,000 and be used by the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office (NHCSO).
The resolution awarded the contract to Inventech Marine Solutions for the boat. Commissioners say the purchase is important for community safety.
"Just one incident where they're able to respond in 10 minutes instead of 45 minutes to an hour," said Commissioner Rob Zapple. "It'll be worth every cent, especially if it's saving someone's life or preventing something bigger from happening."
According to agenda documents, NHCSO received over $465,000 from the 2025 Port Security Grant that will go toward the boat. An additional $186,000 will come from the sheriff's office existing budget.