Manteo Approves Cartwright Park Concept, Swears in New Commissioner

Town also reviews audit, fireworks contract, and attorney transition

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Manteo Board of Commissioners opened its regular session meeting by swearing in new commissioner Jamie Daniels, a former mayor and local business owner. The board also approved a $41,500 fireworks contract, reviewed a town audit showing strong financial health, and heard a presentation on the final conceptual site layout for the upcoming Cartwright Park development.

Why it matters

Manteo's local government is making important decisions around community development, public events, financial oversight, and leadership transitions that will impact the town's residents and businesses. The Cartwright Park project in particular represents a significant investment in the town's recreational infrastructure.

The details

After approving routine consent agenda items, the Manteo Board of Commissioners heard several key updates. They presented a plaque to outgoing town attorney Benjamin Gallop, reviewed a positive audit report from the CPA firm Thompson, Price, Scott and Adams, and approved a fireworks contract for the upcoming July 4th celebration. The board also received a presentation on the final conceptual plan for the new Cartwright Park, which had been developed with input from a steering committee.

  • The Manteo Board of Commissioners held its regular session meeting on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
  • Jamie Daniels was sworn in as a new town commissioner, filling an unexpired term that ends in December 2027.
  • The town approved a $41,500 fireworks contract with Pyrotecnico Fireworks, Inc. for the July 4th celebration.
  • Attorney Benjamin Gallop stepped down from the town attorney position in January 2026 after serving since January 2019.

The players

Jamie Daniels

A new town commissioner who previously served as mayor of Manteo from 2009 to 2017 and owns the Garden Deli & Pizzeria.

Tod Clissold

The current mayor of Manteo, who presented the appreciation plaque to outgoing town attorney Benjamin Gallop.

Benjamin Gallop

The former town attorney for Manteo who stepped down in January 2026 to focus more on his private legal practice.

Austin Eubanks

The audit manager with the CPA firm Thompson, Price, Scott and Adams who presented the town's positive audit review.

John Delucia

The presenter who revealed the final conceptual site layout for the upcoming Cartwright Park development.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.