On the Record with The News Reporter

What’s being done after a child was injured by an alligator at Lake Waccamaw? Mayor Matt Wilson discusses how the town and state are responding in the latest episode of On the Record.

4,500 homes coming to Old Lake Road? We asked engineer Andy Mills of Colliers Engineering & Design everything you want to know about the proposal. Justin Smith, publisher of The News Reporter, conducted this interview on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

On the Record with Chadbourn Police Chief Ken Elliott

Appointed more than two years ago to finish Jody Greene’s term, Sheriff Bill Rogers now faces a pivotal election. In 2026, Columbus County voters will decide whether he stays in office. Hear what Rogers says about his leadership and why he wants to stay on the job. On May 15, 2025, Rogers sat down with News Reporter Publisher Justin Smith for an in-depth interview.

On the Record with Columbus County Economic Development Director Gary Lanier

On the Record with Columbus County Chamber of Commerce President Joan McPherson

Whiteville Police Chief Paul Rockenbach joins Publisher Justin Smith for the latest episode of “On the Record.” Rockenbach explains what drew him back to Columbus County and to WPD’s top job. He also answers questions about modern policing strategies, including the use of technology.

In The News Reporter’s first episode of On the Record, Columbus County Manager Eddie Madden sits down with Publisher Justin Smith to discuss the county’s finances. Madden explains that in response to a recent audit, county government has frozen some vacant positions and has made other spending cuts. This interview was recorded March 20, 2025.