Election season topped the list of the biggest stories of 2016. It was a wild run leading up to election day from federal to local positions, with several key races spilling over into December.

Other issues in the region that have – and will continue to have – an impact on local business included work on New Hanover County’s special use permit, Port of Wilmington upgrades and new projects for the health care community and pharma-related companies.

Meanwhile, several institutions that work with area businesses saw changes in their top leadership. And Wilmington said good-bye to its professional sports team.

The days leading up to Hurricane Matthew forced the area to brace for the unknown, slowing air traffic, tourism and events. And while some wind damage affected the coast, Pender County and inland areas continue to recover from the onslaught of flood water they saw.

Additionally, development remained an ongoing topic for the region this year. Home sales continued their recovery out of the Great Recession dip. Major mixed-use projects started moving dirt. And a project to extend water and sewer along the 421 industrial corridor – with the hopes of attracting new companies – got a significant boost.

Here is a look back at the business news of 2016:

No. 1 - Unusual Election Season Marked 2016

No. 2 - Major Mixed-Use Projects Marked Milestones

No. 3 - Debate Renewed Over Special Use Permit

No. 4 - Port Of Wilmington Added Capabilities

No. 5 - Some Home Sale Numbers Grew In 2016

No. 6 - Health Care, Drug Firms Expanded

No. 7 - Push Continued To Extend U.S. 421 Water, Sewer

No. 8 - Area Saw Changes In Leadership Positions

No. 9 - Pro Soccer Moved From Port City

No. 10 - Hurricane Matthew Ripped Across North Carolina