Lou’s Views
“Unofficial” Minutes & Comments
BOC’s Special Meeting 02/07/24
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here
Audio Recording » click here
Meeting Reconvened Audio Recording » click here
1. Discussion and Possible Action on Accepting Bids for Harbor Acres Dredge Project and Acceptance of a Grant from the Division of Water Resources for the Project – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson (Mayor Holden)
Agenda Packet – pages 1 – 44
Dredging Project Bids » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action in accepting bids for a bucket to barge dredge of Harbor Acres subdivision entrance canal and the acceptance of a grant from the Division of Water Resources for the project.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Harbor Acres subdivision requests a dredge of approximately 2400 cy of material from the entrance canal to return the entrance to desired safe navigation depths.
ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION:
The canal dredging working group gave their approval for both the project and the grant at a meeting on 2/2/24.
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Approval and award of most responsive bid; direct town manager to execute grant contract and notice to proceed regardless of bid timing receipt scenario.
Harbor Acres subdivision working group communicated a desire to move ahead with dredging on the entrance canal because of navigation safety concerns. The town has actively pursued permitting for a bucket-to-barge operation that will require the contractor to remove approximately 2400 cy of material. At the time of this memo, our engineer reports that one final water quality certification remains, and the Corps is ready to issue its permit once the certification is received. The state is requesting the BOC to act on the attached grant as soon as possible because it still needs to be countersigned on their side before any work can begin and the program manager suggests this can take some time.
Note:
To honor the state’s request, February 7th is the first meeting that would allow the BOC to act on the grant contract. A bid opening is scheduled to be held February 6 at 2:00 p.m. and as such the bid tab cannot be included in this packet and will need to be supplied at the meeting on February 7th. If three bids are received, bids can be opened on February 6th and the BOC can entertain accepting the bid and accepting the grant. If three bids are not received, we will need to readvertise. In the event of the second scenario unfolding, the BOC might consider delegating authority to the manager to execute the contract if the bid requirements are met on the second solicitation to expedite the process and comply with the state’s request.
Resolution 23-12
The Board of Commissioners requests the State of North Carolina to provide financial assistance to the Town of Holden Beach for the Habor Acres Canal Maintenance Dredging in the amount of $257,850.00 or 75 percent of project construction cost, whichever is the lesser amount;
Update –
Maintenance dredging bid from T.D Eure was the low bidder at $189,000. The motion was made to award the contract to the most responsive bid.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
2. Budget Workshop
a. 2024 Vision, Goals & Priorities Agenda Packet – pages 45 – 47
b. Public Works Agenda Packet – pages 48 – 53
c. Parks and Recreation Agenda Packet – pages 48, 54 – 56
a. Vision, Goals & Priorities
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Review & Possible Action on 2024 Budget Vision, Goals, Priorities
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
In order to move forward with the 2024 budget, we should fist establish our Vision, then our Goals of a successful budget and finally the Priority criteria for making budget spending decisions
b. Public Works
c. Parks & Recreation
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Budget Workshop
- Public Works
- Parks and Recreation
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST
For the workshop, each department should provide a financial report that includes the following for each line item:
- Last Year Total Spend
- Current YTD Spend
- Current FY Outlook
Update –
a. Vision, Goals & Priorities
The motion was made to accept the proposed vision, goals & priorities
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
b. Public Works
Public Services Director Chris Clemmons discussed the department budget with the Board. Both Town Manager David Hewett and Finance Officer David McRainey both jumped in as needed to help explain the accounting procedures.
c. Parks & Recreation
Assistant Town Manager Christy Ferguson and Town Manager David Hewett discussed the department budget with the Board.
3. Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 24-02, Resolution Confirming Support of the Key Bridge Foundation ADA Mediation Agreement – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas
Agenda Packet – pages 57 – 59
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Review & Possible Action Key Bridge Foundation ADA Mediation Resolution Agreement statement
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
In light of Mr. Green’s letter stating that ‘some of the newly elected Board members appear to be intent on ignoring the binding ADA mediation agreement’ and Mayor Holden’s comments to the Brunswick Beacon that ‘Myers, Paarfus and Thomas have voted to shut down some of those (ADA agreement ongoing projects)’ the Town of Holden Beach should release a statement that the town remains fully committed to fulfilling the obligations of the Key Bridge Foundation ADA Mediation Agreement.
RESOLUTION 24-02 / RESOLUTION CONFIRMING SUPPORT OF THE KEY BRIDGE FOUNDATION ADA MEDIATION AGREEMENT
WHEREAS, the Town of Holden Beach has executed the Key Bridge Foundation ADA Mediation Resolution Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the agreement includes the following obligations:
- Jordan Blvd. – (a). Remove existing ramp and replace with new section of sidewalk; (b). ensure access to sidewalk from all existing accessible parking spaces; (c). provide proper markings and signage
- 114 QBE Parking lot – (a). In consultation with CAMA, as needed, identify potential ADA compliant surfaces are firm, stable, and slip resistant to the maximum extent possible given the proximity of blowing sand; (b). Make the agreed upon surface improvements; (c). Install proper signage and
- 114 QBE Ramp – Replace current wooden handrails on the ramp with round railings similar to those used at Sunset
- 114 QBE Ramp – (a). Improve the transition from the end of the ramp to the mat so as to eliminate existing dip and area of sand accumulation; (b). Extend the mat to the maximum CAMA permitted length; (c) Add options for wheelchair seating to eliminate beachgoers sitting on the mat which blocks access for other beachgoers.
- East End Parking Area – (a). Explore options from procuring Town access so as to expand accessible parking for the East End beach area; (b). In consultation with CAMA, as needed, identify potential ADA compliant surfaces that are firm, stable and slip resistant to the maximum extent possible given the proximity to blowing sand; (c) Make the agreed upon surface improvements; (d) Install proper signage and
- East End Beach Access – (a). Explore options for procuring Town access so as to provide an accessible beach path for East End Beach area; (b). Explore the options for establishing an access path that is firm, stable, and slip resistant ADA approved surface, to the maximum extent possible given the proximity to blowing sand; (c) Install the agree upon access
- Accessible Rest Rooms – Provide accessible Rest Rooms at East End and 114 OBE.
- 700 Block OBW parking – (a). In consultation with CAMA, as needed, identify potential ADA compliant surfaces that are firm, stable and slip resistant to the maximum extent possible given the proximity to blowing sane; (b). Make the agreed upon surface improvements; (c) Install proper signage and
- 801 OBW – (a). Explore the options for establishing an access path that is a firm, stable and slip resistant ADA approved surface, to the maximum extent possible given the proximity to blowing sand; (b). Install the agreed upon access
- Pier Parking Lot – (a). install a continuous mat from the end of the hard surface of the parking lot to the beach; (b). Extend the mat to the maximum CAMA permitted length; (c) Add options for wheelchair seating to eliminate beachgoers sitting on the mat which blocks access for other beachgoers; and
WHEREAS, the Town is on track to complete these projects as required by the agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Town has not voted to shut down any of these projects; and
WHEREAS, the Town has no intention of ignoring the binding ADA Mediation Resolution Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Holden Beach Board of Commissioners that the Town remains fully committed to fulfilling the obligations of the Key Bridge Foundation ADA Mediation Resolution Agreement.
Update –
Commissioner Thomas read the purpose of the Resolution that was in the agenda packet. Important for the Board to respond to the allegations and set the record straight. Basically, they want to reaffirm the commitment to the ADA agreement. The motion was made to adopt the resolution as submitted.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
4. Discussion and Possible Action Related to Mr. Green’s Contract with the Town of Holden Beach – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas
Agenda Packet – pages 60 – 64
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Review & Possible Action Related to Mr. Green’s contract with Town of Holden Beach
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Mr. Green has not provided the Commissioners of HB with a resignation letter. The letter sent to Mayor Holden on January 16 and read aloud at the Jan 23 BOC meeting is not a valid resignation letter because Mr. Green does not report to Mayor Holden per NC Statute 160A-l 73.
§160A-173. City attorney; appointment and duties.
The council shall appoint a city attorney to serve at its pleasure and to be its legal adviser.
Update –
Commissioner Thomas read the purpose of the agenda item that was in the agenda packet. The resignation letter did not follow protocols, so it is not valid. The letter made unsupported allegations and did not give notice. The motion was made to terminate the attorney contract with Mr. Green.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
5. Discussion and Possible Action on Hiring an Attorney for the Town of Holden Beach – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas
Agenda Packet – pages 65 – 69
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Review & Possible Action Related to hiring an Attorney for the Town of Holden Beach
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Holden Beach currently has no attorney and needs an interim and permanent attorney.
Update –
The motion was made to retain Sydnee Moore as our interim town attorney and instruct Town Manager to sign letter of engagement.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
General Comments –
Mayor Alan Holden was not in attendance
Commissioner Page Dyer was not in attendance
Commissioner Rick Smith – was not in attendance
. • Rick participated remotely but could not vote
Mayor Pro Tem Tom Myers assumed the duties of the Mayor
It is worth mentioning that the budget meeting calendar and particularly this meeting was established with the three of them indicating that they were available on this date.
They did not complete the Parks & Recreation Budget Workshop portion of the meeting
The meeting was temporarily recessed to reconvene date and time certain on Friday, February 9th at 9:00am.
Commissioner Page Dyer was not in attendance
Commissioner Rick Smith – was not in attendance
. • Rick participated remotely but could not vote
BOC’s Special Meeting 02/14/24
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here
Audio Recording » click here
1. Budget Workshop
- Governing Body
- Administration
- Inspections
- Police
- Capital Improvement Plan and Projects
BOC’s Special Meeting 02/20/24
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here
Audio Recording » click here
1. Budget Workshop
- Goal Setting/Priorities
BOC’s Public Hearing / Regular Meeting 02/20/24
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet click here
Audio Recording » click here
Public Hearing
PUBLIC HEARING:
Proposed Changes to Holden Beach Code of Ordinances §157.083 Accessory Structures and §157.006 Definitions
Update –
The Public Hearing was held to hear comments on the proposed changes to Accessory Structures Ordinance, there were none.
Regular Meeting 02/20/24
1. Conflict of Interest Check
2024 Rules of Procedure for the Holden Beach Board of Commissioners
(e) Conflict Check. Immediately after the approval of the agenda, the Presiding Officer shall poll each member to disclose any potential conflicts of interest. In the event that a potential conflict is disclosed, the members will vote on a motion to allow or excuse that member with respect to the agenda item. If excused, the member may not participate in any discussion, debate, or vote with respect to the agenda item.
The Board was polled by Mayor Holden. All of them declared that there was no conflict of interest with any agenda item at this meeting.
2. Public Comments on Agenda Items
There were comments made by eight (8) members of the public.
3. Discussion and Possible Action on Adopting the Sailfish Park Site-Specific Master Plan as Completed by McGill Associates, PA. – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 57 -59, plus separate packet
Sailfish Park Master Plan » click here
Slide Show Presentation » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action In adopting the Sailfish Park Site-Specific Master Plan as completed by McGill Associates, PA. The endeavor is the culmination over two budget years and the last action is a presentation by the consultant and a board vote.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
A site-specific master plan study of Sailfish Park was conducted to further the work done in the Comprehensive Master Plan completed by McGill Associates, PA in 2021. The process involved several rounds of public input including an online survey, on-site community meetings, and a community feedback session. The plan discusses how the park should be updated to help better serve the community.
ADVISORY BOARD RECOMMENDATION:
The plan passed by a 3-1 vote of the parks and recreation advisory board.
FINANCE RECOMMENDATION:
Finance Officer reviewed document and the preliminary opinion of probable cost. Also, the park renovations are included in the CIP for FY 202S.
This is a punctuation point of work across two budget years on a site-specific master plan for Sailfish Park. The journey involved a variety of means of public input and our consultants will walk us through a presentation of the process and discuss any questions or comments we might have regarding the plan. They have fulfilled the commitments of their contract once they make this presentation to the Board of Commissioners .
The plan reveals there is a commonality among those who voiced concerns about leaving the park the same and those that want improvements. This plan enhances the current facilities in a manner that allows all abilities to enjoy the tranquility of this passive park.
Update –
Representatives from McGill did a slide presentation and went through the process that was used to develop the site plan. The plan recommends a phased approach be pursued since the probable cost of the proposed project is approximately $435,527. The design balances an effort for the park to retain the site’s natural state while improving it, so it is both more useable and accessible for everybody by making it ADA compliant. Strong consideration was made in the park’s planning effort to develop it in such a way that it does not attract more visitors than its capacity and thereby becomes detrimental to those who love Sailfish Park. The motion was made to accept the master plan that was presented to the Board.
A decision was made – Not Approved (3-2)
Commissioners Smith and Dyer approved the motion
Disappointed, they did not move forward with this plan. The top three (3) recommended improvements were for the canoe/kayak dock launch, the picnic areas, and parking. Hardly controversial or obtrusive. I think the price tag was outrageous at $435K (Is that all you get for your money?). But that was not why the Board didn’t move forward with the plans. We paid McGill to develop the Parks & Recreation Master Plan in 2021. Then we paid McGill to develop a Sailfish Park Site Master Plan. McGill had significant public input, with focus groups, surveys, and meetings. The Parks & Recreation Committee worked on this for quite some time and recommended moving forward with the plans. Unfortunately, the reason they didn’t approve the plans was because the Board chose to give priority to the few residents on Sailfish over doing what was best for the rest of us. Once again a small vocal NIMBY minority dictates what we will do with our Town owned properties. Sad!
4. Police Report – Chief Jeremy Dixon
Agenda Packet – pages 16 – 21
Police Report » click here
Business as usual, normal amount and type of activity for this time of year. During a cold snap we have broken pipes, any water issues call Town Hall during the day and 911 after hours.
The police department currently has only eight (8) officers of the ten (10) they are budgeted to have.
- Preston Conley came back to work only to go back out again on medical disability
- New officer is being processed; paperwork has been submitted to the state
- Preston Conley came back to work only to go back out again on medical disability
Having the full complement of ten (10) police officers seems to be an elusive goal.
Public Service Announcement –
Scams – be on guard, you need to protect yourself from scammers
Please do not send money when contacted via phone calls
NC residents lose millions to scammers: Report reveals top 10 scam categories
The 41-page report from the North Carolina Department of Justice examines artificial intelligence, the opioid crisis and its scam report.
People in North Carolina are losing millions of dollars each year to scammers, according to a report from the state Department of Justice. This 41-page report looks at everything from artificial intelligence to the opioid crisis – showing that just about any news event and spur scammers into action. The report breaks down the 10 scam categories you’re most likely to fall victim to, and some of the topics are not easy to avoid. The most common types of scams include telemarketing and robocalls, motor vehicles, credit, utilities, home improvement, the internet, landlord-tenant issues, insurance, personal service and real estate. In 2023, the North Carolina Department of Justice received hundreds and in many cases thousands of reports of scams in these arenas. Telemarketing and robocall scams were the most common, with 3,281 reports. Never give anyone your personal information and trust your gut if something feels off. Anyone who thinks they’ve been scammed in North Carolina can call 1-877-566-7226 or file a complaint on the Department of Justice’s website.
What he did not say –
It’s that time of year, rental season ends, and break-in season officially starts
Requested that we all serve as the eyes and ears for law enforcement.
If you know something, hear something, or see something –
call 911 and let the police deal with it.
5. Inspections Department Report – Inspections Director Evans
Agenda Packet – pages 22 – 24
Inspections Report » click here
ACTIVE NEW HOME PERMITS = 40
OTHER ACTIVE PERMITS = 246
PERMITS ISSUED OVER $30,000 = 40
* AMOUNT INCLUDED IN ACTIVE TOTAL
PERMITS ISSUED OVER $100,000 = 3
* AMOUNT INCLUDED IN ACTIVE TOTAL
PERMITS ISSUED WAITING PICK UP = 22
TOTAL PERMITS = 308
PERMITS IN REVIEW = 14
CAMA ISSUED = 2
ZONING ISSUED = 15
PERMITS SERVICED FOR INSPECTIONS FROM 12/12-1/11 = 87
TOTAL INSPECTIONS MADE = 254
Update –
Timbo briefly reviewed department activity last month, the department still remains very busy.
Same As It Ever Was
5a. ADA Mediation Agreement Update
Agenda Packet – pages 25 – 30
ADA Mediation Agreement Status >>> click here
Key Bridge Foundation Agreement Update
Jordan Blvd.
Remove existing Ramp and replace with new section of sidewalk. Town Removed entire parking section and spots including any adjoining sidewalks. Replaced with new parking area with ADA compliant surface, transitioned new sidewalk section.
Ensure access from all existing accessible parking spaces; Town replaced and restriped all the ADA parking spaces with proper markings and insured an ADA accessible path to sidewalk.
Provide Proper markings and signage; Town created larger access for the area than was required and extra curbing to insure parking usage.
114 OBE Parking Lot
In consultation with CAMA, as needed identify potential ADA compliant surfaces that are firm, stable and slip resistant to maximum extent given proximity to blowing sand: Staff applied for permits for the installation of pervious concrete to cover from the Towns property line to the landward toe of the CAMA Frontal Dune.
Make agreed upon Improvements; Staff retained surveyors to complete and provide maps with Topography capabilities, staff removed as much material as possible and contracted for the installation of approximately 3000 square feet of pervious concrete the maximum allowed by NCOEQ by permit.
Install Signage and markings, Town restriped Parking areas with improved Van accessible spot as well as marked access routes.
114 OBE Ramp
Replace Current Handrails: Handrails were removed and handrails complying with A117.1 Section 4 and 5 were installed.
Improve the transition from mat to eliminate existing dip and areas of sand accumulation: Staff reconfigured matt orientation design type and location.
Extend mat to the maximum NCDEQ permitted Length: Matt was permitted under rule to six feet beyond the last line of natural stable.
Add seating to eliminated blocking access. seating area was established.
East End Parking
East End Beach Access
Explore options for procuring town access to expand accessible parking for the east end beach area; Surveys and plans were developed for access and Hatteras ramp east end.
In consultation with CAMA; as needed, identify potential ADA compliant surfaces that are firm, stable, slip resistant to maximum extent possible given the proximity to blowing Sand; Staff acquired all permits necessary, for the installation of an ADA Handicap Ramp 5 feet wide 125 + or feet long to meet alt requirements of ADA 117.1, the installation of approximately 5200 square feet of pervious non slip surfaces and an emergency access. Bathrooms have been designed and sealed for construction.
Make agreed upon Surface improvements: Plans and Layout shows pervious nonslip area.
Install Proper signs; additional Parking to be stripped with access routes and ADA compliant transitions, with Proper signage.
Project is out for bids (end Date 2/26/2024 at Noon)
Accessible Restrooms
Provide accessible restrooms and 114 OBE and East End. Town has approved Bathrooms for Avenue E but are still trying to get approval from NCDEQ for the 114 OBE modification. May have to apply for a variance at NCDEQ.
700 Block OBW parking
In consultation with CAMA, as needed identify compliant surfaces to the maximum extent possible; site was evaluated.
Make the Agreed upon surface improvements: a parking area was established a hard nonslip surface was put in place with a transition to the public way.
Install Proper signage and markings; new signage and stripping in compliance with A117.1 installed.
801 O8W
Explore options for establishing an access path that is firm, stable, and slip resistant: staff has developed a plan that establishes a firm stable and slip resistant path designed and engineered by McGill and associates.
This area also required a retaining wall NCDEQ approval plan includes designs for stormwater retention and a non-slip pervious surface with access matting out beyond the last line of natural stable vegetation. Staff intends to present Bid Package in Fall
Pier Parking Lot
Extend a mat from the Hard surface to the beach, mat has been extended.
Extend mat to the maximum allowed by NCDEQ; mat has been extended to maximum allowed.
Add Option for Wheelchair seating at end, Matt has a 6-foot-wide area, for wheelchair so wheel chair occupant will not block beach goers.
ADA Compliance initiatives not on the Agreement
Walkway at 915 OBW
170-foot-long compliant walkway with new transitions and matting located at end.
ADA compliant handrails as required by A117.1 American with Disability Standards.
441 Walkway OBW
143-foot-long ADA Ramp 6 feet cross sectional width with complying with A117.1 Standards
Handrails complying with A117.1 standards, smooth transition, upon completion there will be new access routes with approved parking and proper signage
Remaining parking area to be evaluated for proper access routes and handicap spots for slope and run
Halstead Park
Parking places were reconfigured, repainted. and resurfaced to comply with Al17.1 compliance guidelines, new signage, and Access routes with transition to sidewalk.
Halstead still needs new handrails and slight modification to picnic area for handicap compliance
Previously reported – February 2024
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Review & Possible Action Key Bridge Foundation ADA Mediation Resolution Agreement statement
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
In light of Mr. Green’s letter stating that ‘some of the newly elected Board members appear to be intent on ignoring the binding ADA mediation agreement’ and Mayor Holden’s comments to the Brunswick Beacon that ‘Myers, Paarfus and Thomas have voted to shut down some of those (ADA agreement ongoing projects)’ the Town of Holden Beach should release a statement that the town remains fully committed to fulfilling the obligations of the Key Bridge Foundation ADA Mediation Agreement.
RESOLUTION 24-02
RESOLUTION CONFIRMING SUPPORT OF THE KEY BRIDGE FOUNDATION ADA MEDIATION AGREEMENT
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Holden Beach Board of Commissioners that the Town remains fully committed to fulfilling the obligations of the Key Bridge Foundation ADA Mediation Resolution Agreement.
Commissioner Thomas read the purpose of the Resolution that was in the agenda packet. Important for the Board to respond to the allegations and set the record straight. Basically, they want to reaffirm the commitment to the ADA agreement. The motion was made to adopt the resolution as submitted.
Update –
Timbo updated them on the status of the Key Bridge Foundation Mediation Agreement by reviewing the work that has been done, work they are hoping to get done and where they are going with it. Briefly went over all the items listed above and advised whether work was completed or not completed yet. In addition, ADA compliance quarterly meetings are being held. The town has addressed everything in the agreement and then some.
6. Discussion and Possible Action on Ordinance 24-01, An Ordinance Amending Holden Beach Code of Ordinances §157.083 Accessory Structures and §157.006 Definitions – Inspections Director Evans
a. Consistency Statement
Agenda Packet – pages 31 – 33
Ordinance 24-01 >>> click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Text amendment Section 157.006, 157.0083
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
To Bring Current ordinance in alignment with original intent
Previously reported – July 2023
Discussion and Possible Action on Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Section 157: Zoning Code (Accessory Uses) – Mayor Holden
§157.007 ONE PRINCIPAL BUILDING PER LOT
No platted lot shall be occupied by more than one principal building. No part of a yard, court, or other open space provided about any building or structure for the purpose of complying with the provisions of this chapter shall be included as a part of a yard or other open space required under this chapter for another building or structure. A residence shall always constitute a principal use.
Alan introduced the topic, but Timbo explained the issue. Basically, you can’t have an accessory structure before you have a primary structure. Property owners are required to have a bulkhead, but you can’t have a floating dock or pier without the principal structure which is the house. Changes in the state law have made piers and docks an accessory structure. The Board requested that Timbo to come back to them with proposed changes to the ordinance concerning accessory uses for the Board to review.
Previously reported – January 2024
Discussion and Possible Scheduling of a Public Hearing on Proposed Changes to Holden Beach Code of Ordinances §157.083 Accessory Structures and §157.006 Definitions – Inspections Director Evans
Accessory Structures Ordinance » click here
P&Z Board Statement of Consistency and Zoning Text Recommendation
The Town of Holden Beach Planning & Zoning Board has reviewed and hereby recommends approval of amendments to Chapter 157.006 definitions and 157.083) of the Zoning Ordinance regarding Accessory Structures. The Planning and Zoning Board has found that the recommended amendments are consistent with the adopted CAMA Land Use Plan and are considered reasonable and in the public interest for the following reasons.
- The Cama Land Use plan only addresses activities within approved areas and the planning board believes that the Use of the property will not have, and adverse effect of permitted use within the effected Zoning
- Aesthetics: Chapter 1: Introduction of the adopted Plan references that one of the community’s highest ranked desires is to “Retain and enhance community appearance” regarding the character of development on Holden
The text amendments to 157.006 and 157.083 are consistent with those sections,
Removing the conflict between ordinances and 5.1 of the Cama land Use Plan and encouraging the preservation of Natural resources. Key word Bulkheads.
§157.083 ACCESSORY BUILDINGS
Accessory uses and structures are permitted in any district but not until their
principal structure is present or under construction. Accessory uses shall not involve the conduct of any business, trade, or industry except for home and professional occupations as defined herein. Structures used for accessory uses shall be of comparable color and material of the primary structure and shall be on the same lot as the primary use.
Exception:
Piers, docks, and boatlifts are allowed without their principal structure .
§157.006 DEFINITIONS
ACCESSORY USE or STRUCTURE. A use or structure on the same lot with, and of a nature customarily incidental and subordinate to, the principal use or structure.
Timbo stated that the Board initiated the request to look at this issue, he briefly reviewed how we got to this point. All proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance must go through Planning & Zoning Board for review, comments, and a consistency statement. Now that P&Z has issued the consistency statement the next step is to have a Public Hearing which is required for any changes made to the Zoning Code Section 157. The Board decided to schedule a Public Hearing at the start of the February Regular Meeting.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Update –
What this does is put the ordinance back to what it was before changes were made at the state level by the NC Building Code Council. The change would allow piers, docks, and boatlifts without having a primary structure. After considering the consistency statement, the motion was made to accept the ordinance change as submitted.
A decision was made – Approved (4-1)
Mayor Pro Tem Tom Myers opposed the motion
7. Discussion and Possible Approval of Contract Between the Town and Martin Starnes and Associates for Audit Services for Fiscal Year 2023 – 2024 – Finance Officer McRainey
Agenda Packet – pages 34 – 54
Item was removed from the agenda
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Approval of Audit Contract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
To ensure a timely audit conducted by a reputable firm we have previously contracted
FINANCE RECOMMENDATION:
Recommend approving contract to ensure another timely audit. This would be year two of the three year proposal of audit services presented in FY 2023
FEES:
Audit Fee $35,125
Financial Statement Drafting $3,900
Single Audit Fees (up to 2 programs) $3,750
TOTAL $42,775
Previously reported – February 2023
Two (2) firms were evaluated by the THB Audit Committee for their suitability to be contracted to perform external audits of the Town’s financial statements for Fiscal Years 22/23, 23/24 and 24/25. The qualifications of Martin Starnes & Associates and Sharpe Patel were measured using the RFP scoring tool developed by a previous Audit Committee.
Based upon the scoring tool evaluations, the Audit Committee recommends that the BOC’s authorize the Town Manager to contract with Sharpe Patel.
Based upon the scoring tool evaluations, the Audit Committee recommended that we contract with Sharpe Patel. However, David recommended that we do not change the auditor. After some discussion, the Board chose to ignore the Audit Committee recommendation despite a 147% fee increase and a $12,000 price difference (Sharpe Patel proposed fee was $25,032 vs. Martin Starnes proposed fee $36,975). The North Carolina Local Government Commission requires the Town to have an annual audit performed. The Town has used Martin Starnes for the past three (3) years to perform this service. They have experience working with the town and the Town is happy with the incumbent. Approval of the contract means that Martin Starnes has been selected for their fourth consecutive year, to handle our audit for the fiscal year that ends June 30th 2023. The motion was made to continue working with Martin Starnes for another year.
A decision was made – Approved (4-1)
Commissioner Kwiatkowski opposed the motion
Update –
Mayor Pro Tem Tom Myers asked to have this agenda item removed so that the Audit Committee will have an opportunity to discuss and do their job. Town Manager Hewett objected because he said it would compromise getting the audit done in a timely manner.
A decision was made – Approved (3-2)
Commissioners Smith and Dyer opposed the motion
The protocol is to change firms every few years, traditionally we have done that after vendor has audited us for three years, this would be the fifth consecutive year we have contracted with them.
8. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Pier Property Public Input Session on February 29, 2024 – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Paarfus
Agenda Packet – pages 55 – 56
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action regarding the pier property public input session on February 29th
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
This public input session will follow the same format as the one recently conducted for Sailfish Park. Hard copies of the listed Attachments (see below) will be available for public review at the session. The architect will also be present to answer questions from the public. The public will sign in and submit input on written forms. No one will speak from the podium and there will be no formal presentations.
CONTRACTS/AGREEMENTS:
The architect will charge an hourly rate of $170 without changing the scope of the current contract.
Update –
The Board provided information on the Pier Public Input Session scheduled for February 29th. The public will have an opportunity to review the current plans for the pier project. No presentations will be made at the meeting. There also will be no public comments allowed, however the architect will be there and available to answer any questions. However, the public will be able to submit written comments. The intent is to make it very similar to the input session that was held for the Sailfish Site Plan.
THB Newsletter (02/16/24)
Public Input Session – Holden Beach Pier
The Town of Holden Beach is seeking input on the Holden Beach Pier Property. Bowman Murray Hemingway Architects will hold a public input session on Thursday, February 29th, starting at 5:00 p.m. The public will have the opportunity to drop by, review the proposed project with the architect and submit written comments. The public input session is not intended to be a meeting of the Board of Commissioners.
Holden Beach Community Alliance / Save the Holden Beach Pier Petition
The Holden Beach Fishing Pier is a historic landmark and should be preserved, restored, and reopened. The recreational and economic impact this facility has on our local area has been proven by research studies and public input. Since the current town board of commissioners have suggested that demolishing this structure is an option, we need to work together to come up with a plan to SAVE IT!
If you want the Holden Beach Board of Commissioners to evaluate ALL viable options to SAVE THE PIER and are against the demolition of this historic landmark, please sign this petition. We will share our results at the Feb. 29th special meeting.
For more information » click here
I was told that the petition was to ask the Board not to make any rash decision regarding the pier. At best, this explanation was disingenuous. For starters, this Board unlike the previous Board is taking a pragmatic approach to the project. The HBCA want the pier preserved, restored, and reopened without any consideration of the cost to do so. The most likely scenario will be that after the Board has figured out what has to be done and the cost to do it and then the community would have an opportunity to determine its fate.
Mired with issues, a Brunswick pier renovation project could go back to the drawing board
Newcomers on the Holden Beach Board of Commissioners have halted a years-long effort to renovate the town’s pier, which has been closed to the public for months. Since the town purchased the pier and pier house property for around $3.3 million in 2022, the board of commissioners has further assessed the pier’s structural issues and worked on a conceptual plan to renovate the property. The board unanimously approved a final site plan for the property a year ago, in February 2023. At the board’s regular meeting in December, the board was set to act on the two bids it received for phase one of the pier renovation project. After going to bid twice, the project received two bids: a nearly $2.2 million bid from Paragon Building Corp, and a $3.9 million bid from TD Eure. The 2023-24 fiscal year budget budgeted just $1.13 million for the pier renovation and repair project. The board was given three options: award one of the bids and direct staff to prepare a budget amendment for the budget shortfall; direct staff to negotiate with Paragon to reduce the scope of the work and the budget; or direct staff to reduce the scope of the project and totally rebid the project again. Instead, newly elected board members lead a successful effort to stop the project until a special meeting can be held to catch the board and the public up on the status and scope of the project. Commissioners Tracey Thomas, Rick Paarfus and Mayor Pro-Tem Tom Meyers – all of whom were elected to the board in the November 2023 municipal election – claimed the plans for the project were not made available to the public before the December meeting. While the meeting’s agenda packet did not contain detailed sketches or plans for the pier project, those materials have been available to the public at several prior meetings where the project has been discussed over the last year. Meyers and the new board members expressed interest in holding a special meeting with town staff to better understand the scope of the project and long-term vision for the property, before moving forward with a bidder. Meyers made a motion to stop the project until such a meeting is held. “…I would hesitate to move forward with any of this because I think we need a long-term vision of the pier and property and what we’re going to do with it,” Thomas said. “We need a long-term vision for the whole thing before we start just putting $2 million band-aids on the pier.” Commissioners Rick Smith and Page Dyer voted against the motion, who said the project has been a matter of public discussion for three years and it’s time to move forward with the approved plan. A master plan and subsequent phased plan has been presented to the board and public on several occasions over the past year, town staff reiterated. Tensions ran high toward the end of the discussion. “I mean if the folks would have attended the meetings and been as diligent as they are now, they would’ve seen what the plans are and they would understand what the plans are,” Smith said. “But evidently, they didn’t want to and now they want to come in and change the whole deal.” Meyers’ motion passed 3-2, pausing the project for the time being. The conceptual site plan outlined renovations to the existing pier and pier house, as well as improvements to the public parking lot on site. Architects reported to the town’s commissioners last year that the pier structure extending over the ocean is in good shape, but in need of largely cosmetic improvements such as replacing handrails and some decking. The portion of the pier over the beach needs more extensive repairs, like replacing some structural support beams. The pier is located at 441 Ocean Blvd. in Holden Beach. It remains unclear when the board will revisit the project. Several special meetings of the board were called in January, but the pier project is not on the agendas for those meetings.
Read more » click here
9. Discussion and Possible Action on Issuing a Request for Proposals for a New Permanent Town Attorney – Commissioners Thomas and Paarfus
Agenda Packet – pages 60 – 63
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on issuing an RFP for a new permanent town attorney.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The purpose of this request is to direct the Town to prepare an RFP to advertise for a new town attorney
Replacement of Town Attorney
As provided for at North Carolina General Statute §160A-173.
§160A-173. City attorney; appointment and duties
The council shall appoint a city attorney to serve at its pleasure and to be its legal adviser.
Update –
A Request for Proposals (RFP) for Legal Services will be advertised in the local paper and placed on the North Carolina League of Municipalities’ website. The law firms that are interested in providing legal services to the Town will need to respond to the RFP no later than March 31st. The Board tasked the Town Manager with doing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Legal Services. Since it is not prudent to hire an attorney without conducting interviews the established protocols are for the entire Board to interview the potential candidates.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
10. Discussion and Possible Action on Granting Permission to the Chaplain of the HB Chapel to Conduct the Annual Easter Sunrise Service from the HB Pier – Mayor Holden and Commissioner Dyer
Agenda Packet – page 64
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action on Granting Permission to the Chaplain of the HB Chapel to Conduct the Annual Easter Sunrise Service from the HB Pier
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: As in years past, the chaplain would be using the pier as the pulpit for the service and the attendees would be on the strand.
Update –
Mayor Holden said that Easter Sunrise Service has been an island tradition as long as he can remember. The Holden Beach Chapel is requesting permission to walk a short distance out on the pier only over beach strand and conduct the service from there as they have done it in the past. The motion made was to allow the Chapel to conduct the annual Easter Sunrise Service from the pier. The Board asked Timbo if he had any safety concerns, he responded that he did not have any concerns. The town attorney recommended we obtain a release for waiver of liability from each person that will be on going out on the pier.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Easter Sunrise Service
Holden Beach Chapel and the Brunswick Islands Baptist Church and are sponsoring an Easter Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m. Easter Sunday March 31st at the Holden Beach Pier.
11. Town Manager’s Report
a. Greensboro Lift Station Update
Agenda Packet – page 65
Sewer Lift Station #2 >>> click here
Sewer Lift Station #2 Update
EPA Grant Component – $2,669.867
We were apprised on December 20th that the EPA grant funding came through officially for the town. The finance officer has been working with the representatives at EPA to set up our accounting system. Based on our current knowledge base, this grant will focus on a quick turnaround where the town will submit invoices to EPA representatives. They will approve invoices and send automatic payments to us in which we have to redistribute to the contractor within a three-to-four-day period. The milestone schedule presented in the workplan based on needing to move past the winter 2023 season for construction includes completing construction by July 2025 and having system start up by October 2025. The timeline also incorporates closeout on EPA’s end, which includes their own inspections of the system. They have final completion and close out on their end listed as November 2026.
State Funding – $1,940,000
Received a letter of intent to fund from the State last Friday. Have reached out twice to the program representative to make contact and clarify some items. Previous correspondence to Town says the BOC will need to make a resolution accepting the funding letter of intent, but we need some clarification first. One item of critical importance is that the state timeline does not appear to mesh with the EPA timeline; i.e.; the state schedule as received/written seems to represent a not to exceed timeline that lags a year or so behind the EPA approved work plan. We are requesting clarification about advancing the state schedule to accommodate our circumstances and shovel ready project status. More to come on the resolution needed by the board.
Remaining Financing
Have been in consultation with the bond attorney and financial advisors to keep them abreast of the project’s moving parts. Forecast a possible need for short-term borrowing since the state funding references a reimbursement of costs protocol instead of the payment advance system that the EPA follows (mentioned above). In addition to the “pay/go” financing consideration – need to factor in the ability to pay contractor should EPA deny any reimbursements.
LGC
If short-term financing is needed, a third calendar and related efforts will need to be coordinated so that the town can appear before the LGC and submit appropriate application prior to appearance.
Next Steps
- Get questions answered from State
- BOC resolution accepting intent to fund
- Rebid project- old bids are not valid
- Coordinate bid tab with State
- Coordinate all above elements for funding and prepare for construction
Previously reported – January 2024
The NC Department Water Quality application was made
The two (2) million dollar appropriation has not been finalized yet; it still needs to be approved
We are also still waiting for the $2.7m dollars from the State and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG) funding / https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2022-05/fy23-cj-11-stag.pdf
Our intent is to dovetail the funding of $4.7m from the two (2) grants
Previously reported – September 2023
2018 – Sewer Station #4 / $158,000 + $1,413,000 + $282,700 +$104,920 = $1,958,620
2020 – Sewer Station #3 / $311,805 + $349,000 $1,622,500 = $2,283,305 +17%
2023 – Sewer Station #2 / $2,137,400 + $759,400 + $685,400 + $729,500 = $4,311,700 +89%
Update –
Agenda packet gave a complete status report on the project. The bids we received the last time we did this were above the dollar amount of the funding that we had secured. We now have funding of $4,609,867 ($2,669.867 + $1,940,000). We may need to secure short-term financing to close any expenses above the funds that have already been secured.
Personnel
Kimberly Bowman is our new Permit Specialist in the Inspections Department
The Police Department is still not fully staffed, with one hire being processed and one vacancy
The Administration Department as an opening for the front desk Receptionist
Coastal Storm Risk Management (CSRM) Study
The Town has made application to NC Department Wildlife Resources for $750k state budget appropriation for the Town’s CSRM Study contribution match. It is anticipated that the $750k appropriation and pending federal Disaster Relief Act funding that probably will negate the need for any further Town expenditures.
Canal Dredging
Maintenance dredging bid from T.D Eure was the low bidder at $189,000
They need to wait to award the contract until they have USACE final approval
Previously reported – January 2024
$343,800 Department Wildlife Resources grant awarded for Harbor Acres dredging. $257,850 state and $85,950 local which is from the Harbor Acres Canal Special Revenue Fund. Waiting for NC Department Water Quality certification for USACE permit approval. Current Request for Proposal (RFP) is out for a 2,700 cyds bucket to barge project in Harbor Acres. Bids are due back by February 6th. Staff is preparing for BOC consideration of grant acceptance and dredger award in Special Meetings that are scheduled in February.
Stormwater Project Partnership Agreement
Town staff met with USACE Program Manager to develop a draft PPA
Expectation is to establish about a half dozen projects for an estimated cost of two (2) million dollars
The intent is to position the Town to receive federal stormwater funding for these projects
Previously reported – January 2024
Original meeting with USACE was postponed and the meeting has been rescheduled for February 13th. The plan is to use elements from the stormwater master plan currently in development to aid in obtaining federal funds.
Ocean Boulevard Resurfacing and Bike Lane Project
Contractor is proceeding at a pace of a mile a day which is faster than he anticipated
Previously reported – January 2024
Contractor is wrapping up some stormwater improvements and mailbox relocations issues this week. Equipment mobilization is scheduled for this week, so he anticipates work to start very soon. It’s a work in progress but he still says the project being completed by Memorial Day.
DOT Bike Lane Report Presentation » click here
The plan includes bike lanes of 5’ on each side of Ocean Boulevard. It will be an asymmetrical widening, that is 7’ on the south side and only 3’ on the north side where the sidewalk is.
Highland Paving has been awarded the contract and has already met with the town staff
Surveying has already been completed and work on storm water issues will begin in November
Paving prep work will start once that is completed, probably sometime in December
They anticipate that the actual paving project will be done beginning March
Work will be done starting from the west end of the island working east
They are still committing to completing the project before Memorial Day
THB Newsletter (10/20/23)
Ocean Boulevard Resurfacing and Bike Lane Project
Highland Paving met with the Department of Transportation and staff last week to discuss the upcoming project. They communicated that storm water work will begin in November. The subsequent paving prep work, which we are thinking will take place in December, will involve removal of the road shoulders, three feet on the north side of the road and seven feet on the south side of the road. We do not know where the contractor will be at any given point in time. Property owners are responsible for removing any material (landscape timbers/specialty rock, etc.) from the construction area that they don’t want hauled off by the contractor. Replacement material will be generic ABC stone. Mailboxes will be moved/reset, but if they fall apart, the contractor will install a generic replacement. We are forecasting the paving won’t begin until March/April, with the project being completed by Memorial Day.
THB Newsletter (12/21/23)
Ocean Boulevard Resurfacing and Bike Lane Project
Paving prep work for the project will involve removal of the road shoulders, three feet on the north side of the road and seven feet on the south side of the road. Work is scheduled to start in the beginning of January. Make sure to remove any materials before this time. Property owners are responsible for removing any material (landscape timbers/specialty rock, etc.) from the construction area that they don’t want hauled off by the contractor. Replacement material will be generic ABC stone. Mailboxes will be moved/reset, but if they fall apart, the contractor will install a generic replacement.
THB Newsletter (01/16/24)
DOT Resurfacing and Bike Lane Project
The contractor will start moving mailboxes and street signs this week. Mailboxes will be relocated to the far edge of the right-of-way. Mail service is not expected to be impacted. Subsequent work on clearing material from the right-of-way is scheduled to begin once this work has been completed.
Beach Strand
The Town is doing rock raking from the Pier to the 800 block
The Notice of Violation will be lifted once the work has been completed
We still have a three (3) year tilling requirement to comply with
LWFMX
Lockwood Folly Maintenance Crossing project is being mobilized this week and will run until the end of March. The dredge boat Lexington is already here, Approximately 100,000cy of beach compatible sand will be placed on the beach strand from Amazing Grace to around Blockade.
In Case You Missed It –
THB Newsletter (02/09/24)
Annual Parking Passes Now Available
Annual parking passes are now available for purchase. The Town uses SurfCast by Otto Connect Mobile Solution. This is a mobile app downloadable for Apple and Android devices. You can also visit https://surfcast.ottoconnect.us/pay to purchase a pass. Paid parking is enforced April 1st – October 31st, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Click here for more information on the paid parking program.
Holden Beach Birthday Celebration
The Town of Holden Beach’s luncheon birthday celebration was held on Wednesday, February 14th. As part of the celebration, participants entered desserts judged in the category of best birthday display or best Valentine display, because let’s face it everybody “loves” Holden Beach.
THB Newsletter (02/16/24)
Public Input Session – Holden Beach Pier
The Town of Holden Beach is seeking input on the Holden Beach Pier Property. Bowman Murray Hemingway Architects will hold a public input session on Thursday, February 29th, starting at 5:00 p.m. The public will have the opportunity to drop by, review the proposed project with the architect and submit written comments. The public input session is not intended to be a meeting of the Board of Commissioners.
THB Newsletter (02/16/24)
Public Input – Block Q
The Board of Commissioners tasked the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) with developing a new site plan for Block Q that includes a concert space with dance floor, ADA compliant bathrooms and greenspace. Other potential amenities to be examined by the PRAB include playground equipment, shaded areas, benches, picnic tables, informational panels, areas for food trucks and usage during festivals. The PRAB held an initial scoping session with the architect to organize the effort and will have future working sessions in which public input is encouraged. The first session to provide public input is Thursday, March 7th at 2:00 p.m. Comments may be provided by attending the session or sending them to the town clerk at [email protected] by Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. The purpose of this particular session is to obtain feedback from those property owners and businesses directly adjacent to Block Q and who might be impacted by any changes to the site. These property owners will also receive a letter from the town in the next few days.
The motion made was to task the Parks and Recreation Board to work with the current architect to develop a new site plan for Block Q. It seems to me that we should just start with only the most essential elements like the restrooms, vehicle, and boat parking. In addition to Block Q the committee should consider integrating Jordan Boulevard into those plans. The Town had plans to develop a promenade on Jordan Boulevard. The Town owns the land that the commercial properties are utilizing for private parking for their businesses. We already own the property there, by utilizing it for vehicle parking it may give us more flexibility on what we can do in Block Q. Diagonal parking on both sides of the road and down the center would add a significant number of parking spaces. Plus, vehicles parked there would be closer to the beach access then parking in Block Q. In addition, not having to have vehicle parking in Block Q would allow other things to be there like the Pavilion. In my humble opinion we should develop plans for Block Q that includes a promenade on Jordan Boulevard.
Holden Beach seeking public input for Block Q development with concert space
The public is invited to provide input concerning the development of Block Q, according to the Town of Holden Beach. “The Board of Commissioners tasked the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) with developing a new site plan for Block Q that includes a concert space with dance floor, ADA compliant bathrooms, and greenspace. Other potential amenities to be examined by the board include playground equipment, shaded areas, benches, picnic tables, informational panels, areas for food trucks and usage during festivals,” the announcement states. According to the town, the first public input session is set for Thursday, March 7, at 2 p.m. at the town hall public assembly at 110 Rothschild Street in Holden Beach. Comments also can be sent by email to the town clerk at [email protected]. Emails must be submitted by 3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 6. “The purpose of this particular session is to obtain feedback from those property owners and businesses directly adjacent to Block Q and who might be impacted by any changes to the site. These property owners will also receive a letter from the town in the next few days,” the town adds. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality‘s Division of Coastal Management has awarded $420,000 for the project.
Read more » click here
Holden Beach talks turning Block Q to Block P-arty
The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners during its Jan. 23 meeting expressed safety concerns about the existing pavilion and discussed moving town concerts across the street to the Block Q property. Two motions were passed 3-2, with Commissioners Page Dyer and Rick Smith opposition each. One motion called for having engineers reassess the condition of the pavilion, located at 131 Jordan Blvd., and avoid using it until reassessed; the other motion put Block Q site plans back on the chopping block. The board’s discussion and actions are in response to the February 2023 Right Angle Engineering pavilion condition assessment, which reported needed repairs, improvements or replacement. The report called for the town to make a plan within 12 months of the assessment and implementation of the plan or demolition within the 12 subsequent months. “That first 12 months is up, I think we need to do something,” Mayor Pro-Tem Myers said, noting that the town needs to figure out how safe the structure is and come up with a plan before any town events are hosted there. The passed motion supports staff to engage with Right Angle to do a reassessment and bring that report back to the board. Myers also urged staff not to use it until the report was done due to safety concerns. Though the original pavilion was built in 2009, an engineer designed a temporary bracing system and column repair plan in 2010 to fix the structure. The report stated the column repairs were never implemented. “We have determined that failure of the existing structure is not immediately impending, but significant repairs and/or improvements are required in the short term,” the report states. Inspections Director Tim Evans told commissioners that the pavilion was poorly built from the start and repairs to temporarily brace the structure are starting to fail. “I am the one that’s supposed to really look out for the life, safety, health and welfare of the citizens of this town and it puts me in a bad position,” he said. “But it doesn’t make me sleep good at night knowing I got this engineer report and knowing the condition of that structure up there.” Evans explained that he condemned the original structure because it did not meet the minimum inspection requirements, nor did the pier that was connected to the pavilion. Despite bracing and monthly assessment, he said the whole structure continues to rack and deteriorate. When a structure racks, he noted, they either bring the structure back to where it needs to be, or they take action to keep it from racking anymore because it will eventually reach a point of failure when it moves like that. He told the board that he will soon condemn the pavilion, as he did in 2010, if the board does not take action due to how dangerous the structure is becoming. “I felt comfortable we weren’t going to hurt somebody, I don’t feel that comfortable [now],” he said. The roof, Evans said, is the main concern but the stage itself is perfectly fine for town events. He said the permanent fix would be costly but taking the roof off could be a temporary quick fix to keep the town from losing its summer concert space. Commissioners Dyer and Smith favored Evans’ recommendation. Dyer said she wants a reassessment done but wants to make the pavilion safe enough for concerts to go on, as well. Asked if the reassessment report could be completed before the concerts begin, Assistant Town Manager Christy Ferguson said probably not. She said there are steps to take before doing the reassessment, which may not be completed prior to the summer concert series. Myers said he wants the pavilion to be permanently fixed and suggested relocating concerns at least temporarily. “If we have a problem of where to hold the concerts, we do have Block Q,” Myers said as the board transitioned to discussing Block Q. In a January special meeting, the board voted to halt the Phase 1 stormwater work for the new Block Q parking area. The first project sketch displayed paid parking spots, boat trailer spaces, a dog park area and public restrooms on the block enclosed by South Shore Drive, Quinton Street and Brunswick Avenue. The motion passed on Jan. 23 supported the Parks and Recreation Board to work with Pinnacle Architecture Professional Association to develop a new site plan for Block Q. The plan is to include a concert space, dance floor, already planned Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) bathrooms, greenspace, boat and trailer parking spaces, car parking spaces and other potential amenities. Assuming the pavilion is going away, Myers said he wants to use the grassy Block Q land as a new space for the concerts. Smith said he feels it is a waste of time and money to start the Block Q plans all over again. He said the previous plan was good and that the designated pull-through boat and trailer parking was a necessity. “The plan we had was a good plan and it was a good start to the plan and would still give ample greenspace for a pavilion and a place to have the amenities,” he added. Like Smith, Dyer said the Block Q plan pull-through parking spots for boats and trailers and the ADA bathrooms were the most important aspects of the previous plan. She said the board previously discussed putting the pavilion on the Block Q property but decided to emphasize boat parking and bathrooms first. The prior plans, she added, left space for a pavilion so the town could add it later. “The problem with putting a pavilion over there is, you’re going to be facing residential homes,” she said. She added that some people, such as nearby residents, may not want the pavilion to change locations and those residents should have a say before making any decision. “We will have public input,” Myers said in response. Prior Block Q coverage can be viewed on The Brunswick Beacon website by searching “Block Q” in the search bar.
Read more » click here
Water/Sewer Account
Please note that you have a NEW ACCOUNT NUMBER for your water/sewer account. It is very important that you include the correct account number on your memo line when remitting payment, you will not be sending a paper stub in when making your payment moving forward. Click here if you would like to be set up on bank draft.
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization
Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On January 19, 2024, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to March 8, 2024.
News from Town of Holden Beach
The town sends out emails of events, news, agendas, notifications and emergency information. If you would like to be added to their mailing list, please go to their web site to complete your subscription to the Holden Beach E-Newsletter.
For more information » click here
Upcoming Events –
Easter Sunrise Service
Holden Beach Chapel and the Brunswick Islands Baptist Church and are sponsoring an Easter Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m. Easter Sunday March 31st at the Holden Beach Pier.
Family Nighttime Easter Egg Hunt
The Town will hold its annual nighttime Easter Egg Hunt on Friday, April 5th beginning at 7:00 p.m. Teams of four will compete against each other. Participants will need to bring their own flashlights to the event and something to place their eggs in. Participants MUST register by March 18th and space is limited to the first 100 families. Email Christy at [email protected] to register.
13. Mayor’s Comments
From the Mayor’s Desk (02/02/24)
The date the Draft Holden Beach Causeway Transportation Study will go to the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners for a public hearing and for their consideration has been changed to March 18th at 6:00 p.m. For more information and to view the study, visit the Brunswick County Planning Department’s website: https://www.brunswickcountync.gov/409/Holden-Beach-Causeway-Transportation-Cor.
Click here to view the letter several mayors in the county sent opposing the proposed insurance rate increase. The letter details reasons for the opposition to the proposed increase. It also requests that another hearing be scheduled and the deadline for public comment be extended.
The undersigned mayors of Brunswick County strongly oppose the huge increase in property rates requested by the Insurance Bureau.
In Brunswick County, the proposed rates range from 43% to 99.4% with the rates for the majority of Brunswick County citizens ranging from 71.4% to 99.4%. When the proposed 15% increase in wind and storm insurance is added, the rates would increase from 58% to 114.4%. In their totality they are the highest rates in the State of North Carolina. We are not aware of any data that supports such a massive and punitive increase. Nothing has occurred in terms of massive losses in Brunswick County since the last increase that would justify such an increase.
The impact of this proposed increases would be particularly devastating to three at risk group of citizens in Brunswick County. First, in an area where there is a lack of affordable housing, rents would likely increase as the costs of insurance is passed on renters. Second many first time buyers and current homeowners will find these increase either foreclose the option to buy a home or afford it. As Mayors we are particularly concerned about the impact of this increase on teachers, first responders, medical personnel, government employees and service industry employees. Third, these proposed increase would impose significand hardships on the elderly who are living on fixed incomes.
In addition to opposing this increase, we urge that your staff carefully review both the proposed increases to determine the validity of the claimed justifications and their impact on the citizens of Brunswick County.
As you know, North Carolina law states that insurance rates shall not be excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory. While we understand that North Carolina citizens do need access to insurance coverage, we believe that these proposed rates are excessive, discriminatory, and limit North Carolina citizens’ access to insurance.
Finally, we are concerned that there was little time to appear at the hearing or submit written comments. We respectfully request that another hearing be scheduled and the deadline for submitting written comments be extended.
14. Executive Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(5), To Establish or Instruct Staff or Agent Concerning the Negotiation of the Price and Terms of a Contract Concerning the Acquisition of Real Property – Mayor Holden and Commissioner Dyer
Agenda Packet – page 66
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Executive Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143- 318.ll(a)(S), To Establish or Instruct Staff or Agent Concerning the Negotiation of the Price and Terms of a Contract Concerning the Acquisition of Real Property
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Atlantic Telephone Membership Corp, Parcel 231MD02101, property acquisition for public utilities
Update –
The parcel is located at 480 OBW at the corner of Greensboro and OBW across from sewer lift station #2
No decision was made – No action taken
General Comments –
BOC’s Meeting
The Board of Commissioners’ next Regular Meeting is scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month, March 19th
The Special Meeting Schedule was amended.
It’s not like they don’t have anything to work on …
The following twenty-five (25) items are what’s In the Works/Loose Ends queue:
- 796 OBW Project
- Accommodation/Occupancy Tax Compliance
- ADA Mediation Agreement
- Attorney
- Beach Mat Plan
- Bike Lanes
- Block Q Project
- Carolina Avenue
- Crosswalks OBW
- Dog Park
- Fire Station Project
- Harbor Acres
- Hatteras Ramp/Coastal Waterfront Access Grant
- ICW/No Wake Zone Enforcement
- Inlet Hazard Areas
- Parking – 800 Block
- Pavilion Replacement
- Pier Properties Project
- Rights-of-Way
- Sewer System/Lift station #2
- Stormwater Management Project
- USACE/Coastal Storm Risk Management Study
- Water System Assessment/Water Tower
- Waste Ordinance Enforcement Policy
- Wetland Delineation/Bulkheading
The definition of loose ends is a fragment of unfinished business or a detail that is not yet settled or explained, which is the current status of these items. All of these items were started and then put on hold, and they were never put back in the queue. This Board needs to continue working on them and move these items to closure.
Hurricane Season
For more information » click here.
Be prepared – have a plan!
Why a hot Atlantic has hurricane forecasters very worried
Hurricane season is still more than three months away, but in parts of the tropical Atlantic, it feels like we might as well already be in the thick of it. Across a strip of ocean where many cyclones are born, February ocean temperatures are closer to what scientists expect in July. The ominous warmth is stirring concerns of yet another hyperactive Atlantic hurricane season. Seven of the last eight seasons have been above normal. Last year, similarly unusual warmth fueled a storm season that was significantly more active than meteorologists might have expected given the presence of the El Niño climate pattern, which emerged last spring and creates conditions that tend to inhibit Atlantic cyclone formation. As meteorologists look ahead to this hurricane season, which begins June 1, they see an increasing likelihood that a La Niña pattern will replace El Niño by late summer or early fall. That is another bad sign for the U.S. coastline — La Niña is associated with active patterns in the tropical Atlantic. It’s still too early to say whether the warmth will persist into hurricane season, or when La Niña might arrive. But, especially together, the trends suggest that an active season could be difficult to avoid, said Michael Lowry, a meteorologist with WPLG-TV in Miami and a former National Hurricane Center scientist. “There’s plenty of time ahead before we get to the meatiest part of the hurricane season,” Lowry said. “But a lot’s going to have to change … for forecasters to feel much more comfortable going into hurricane season.”
A persistent trend of record warmth
Last spring, the strongest climate signal scientists know of — El Niño — gave every indication of a slowdown in Atlantic hurricane activity in the summer and fall. El Niño’s signature is a surge of warm waters and towering clouds in the central and eastern Pacific. It triggers changes in atmospheric circulation that, on the other side of the planet, can make it harder for tropical storms to form and strengthen: Areas of high pressure with sinking air are more common over the Atlantic, and wind shear, when wind speed and direction vary at different altitudes, increases. The expectation of El Niño prompted National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasters to predict a mostly typical Atlantic hurricane season, a downgrade from years of increased storm activity. But as El Niño developed, and unusual warmth appeared well beyond the Pacific zones the climate pattern is known for, forecasters warned that a quieter season was far less than certain. By August, it became clearer: The ocean warmth was likely to counteract El Niño’s typical effect in the Atlantic, and NOAA upgraded its forecast. The season ended up with about 20 percent more activity than average, as measured by a statistic known as accumulated cyclone energy. Now, with a new tropical weather season ahead, Atlantic temperatures are perhaps even more remarkable.
Why meteorologists have reason for concern
In a zone of the Atlantic known as the main development region for hurricanes, sea surface temperatures are running well above normal — and 1.1 degree Fahrenheit (0.6 degrees Celsius) higher than in any other year on record, said Philip Klotzbach, a tropical meteorologist at Colorado State University. If that trend persists into hurricane season this summer, it could mean a ripe environment for tropical waves flowing from Africa to develop into cyclones. “Basically, it is the perfect recipe for hurricanes to form and strengthen,” Alejandro Jaramillo, a meteorologist at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, said in an email. “The warmer waters provide extra fuel available for hurricanes, potentially leading to the formation of stronger storms.” One factor behind the Atlantic warmth: weak winds over the ocean, Klotzbach said. That discourages evaporation, which would allow the waters to cool by transferring heat into the air. Models suggest weaker-than-normal winds continuing into March, Klotzbach said. Beyond that, longer-term models predict that surface temperatures will remain elevated, and that by the heart of hurricane season, from August through October, precipitation will be above normal across the tropical Atlantic, something that suggests a strong pattern of waves flowing off Africa, Klotzbach said. If those predictions come to pass, “I’d expect a very busy season in store,” he said in an email. Meanwhile, climate scientists predict that La Niña is more likely than not to develop by August. While El Niño increases wind shear — which acts to disrupt hurricanes’ columns of rotating winds — La Niña tends to discourage it, clearing the way for storms to organize and strengthen. The warm water in the tropical Atlantic is part of a global pattern of record sea-surface temperatures, fueled by both El Niño and human-caused climate change. The planet’s average sea surface temperature reached an all-time record of 70.2 degrees Fahrenheit (21.2 Celsius) on Feb. 9, according to the University of Maine’s Climate Change Institute.
Why it’s too soon to panic
Meteorologists stressed that it is far too soon to say how the hurricane season may play out. Official seasonal forecasts from NOAA, Colorado State and other sources won’t arrive for months, and even they carry plenty of uncertainty. And there is still much scientists don’t understand about how the ocean behaves and what triggers longer-term changes in tropical weather. For example, it wasn’t immediately clear what was behind an unusual drought of Atlantic hurricanes in the 1970s and 1980s — until scientists realized that a surge in air pollution from Europe was acting to cool the tropical Atlantic by blocking sunlight, said Kerry Emanuel, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Similarly, it isn’t yet clear why the Atlantic is warming more dramatically than other oceans, or for how long it will continue, he said. Even if scientists could predict an active hurricane season with more certainty, “that’s not what you want,” Emanuel said. “You want the number of destructive landfalling storms.” That is outside meteorologists’ capabilities — it was just last year that NOAA extended its tropical outlooks to seven days. But Lowry said the state of the Atlantic is such that, even if ocean temperatures trend closer to normal, there is still far more heat in the waters that could be available for storms come summer and fall. “This is such an extreme case that it doesn’t bode well,” he said.
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