Lou’s Views
“Unofficial” Minutes & Comments
BOC’s Regular Meeting 11/19/24
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet click here
Audio Recording » click here
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 Heather our Town Clerk. All of them declared that there was no conflict of interest with any agenda item at this meeting.
2. Presentation to Development Services Officer Janna Pigott for Achieving Floodplain Management Certification – Town Manager Hewett
Agenda Packet – background information was not provided
What is the CFM Certification Program?
The ASFPM national certified floodplain manager program was established in 1998 to create a baseline testing of professional competence in floodplain management. The program requires passing an exam and then continuing education credits annually to maintain certification. Recognizing training/continuing education/professional development is a keystone of the program, as the floodplain management program is continually evolving and the knowledge and performance of local, state, federal and private-sector floodplain management professionals is ever changing.
The role of the nation’s floodplain managers is expanding due to increases in disaster losses, the emphasis on mitigation to alleviate the cycle of damage-rebuild-damage, and a recognized need for professionals to adequately address these issues. This certification program lays the foundation for ensuring that highly qualified individuals are available to meet the challenge of breaking the damage/rebuild cycle on the nation’s human, financial and natural resources.
For more information » click here
Update –
David recognized Janna Pigott our Development Services Officer for obtaining the Floodplain Management certification. He briefly explained the importance of her role in the community.
Previously reported – October 2024
Representative Steve Pfaff from the National Weather Service recognized the Town for being Storm Ready/Tsunami Ready. Steve stated that the three pieces of the program are partnership, planning, and preparedness. Recognition was given to all members of the Planning and Inspections Department. He presented a certificate to the Town, followed by a photo-op. Timbo made sure that we recognized staff member Janna Pigott for her efforts in getting us ready, he stated that now we are prepared.
3. Presentation of Fiscal Year 2023 – 2024 Audit Results – Elsa Swenson, Martin Starnes and Associates – (Finance Officer McRainey)
Agenda Packet – pages 17 – 38, plus separate packet
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Presentation of Fiscal Year 2023 – 2024 Audit Results
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Martin Starnes has completed and submitted the 2023-2024 audit. The Local Government Commission has approved the submittal. Elsa Swenson is here to present the highlights of the report.
Audit Report » click here
Financial Highlights
- The assets and deferred outflows of resources of the Town of Holden Beach exceeded its liabilities and deferred inflows of resources at the close of the fiscal year by $42,043,999 (net position).
- The government’s total net position increased by $4,509,963, primarily due to an increase in the governmental activities of $4,346,045 and increases in the business-type activities of $163,918.
- As of the close of the current fiscal year, the Town of Holden Beach’s governmental funds reported combined ending fund balances of $17,759,470, an increase of $2,752,842 in comparison with the prior year. Of this amount, $5,347,024 is available for spending at the government’s discretion.
- At the end of the current fiscal year, unassigned fund balance for the General Fund was $5,347,024,or 146%, of total General Fund expenditures for the fiscal year.
Economic Factors and Next Year’s Budgets and Rates
The following key economic indicators impact on the potential growth and prosperity of the Town:
- Occupancy tax revenues continue to remain strong with collections exceeding $3.9 million.
Holden Beach continues to be a destination for those seeking to escape the confines of larger cities with rental property tax revenue collections continuing to spread into the traditionally off-season months.
- Construction revenues on the island grew by almost $200k even with high interest rates people are continuing to build and make improvements to their homes.
Previously reported – October 2024
Audit Committee Report Regarding the Annual Audit – Mayor Pro Tem Myers
Audit Committee Report » click here
The audit committee met on Friday, October 11th, to review and discuss the draft audit report information with the external auditor and Town staff.
The following topics were discussed:
- Overall change in net position, the reasons behind it, and possible future trends
- General Fund balance, unassigned fund balance ratio, and potential future actions
- General Fund, BPART, and paid parking revenues
- Water & Sewer fund revenues, changes in net position, and unrestricted fund balance
- The impact of capital charges making the Water & Sewer fund show an operating loss and triggering a required letter to the LGC
Based on the information the auditor presented, their responses to our questions, and the results of our discussions, our findings are as follows:
- The audit reflects very strong financial results with a total net position increase of over $4.5M
- We will receive a clean opinion from the auditor
- There are no internal control deficiencies
- There are no issues with the Water Resources Development Grant Program
- The audit is on track for meeting the October 31st filing deadline with the LGC
- Similar to last year, the BOC will need to sign a letter to the LGC explaining the appearance of an operating loss in the Water & Sewer fund
Mayor Pro Tem Myers briefly reviewed the Audit Committee report. Tom reported that we have very strong financial results, which is really good news. The audit will be submitted as required to the Local Government Commission on time. The auditor will be here to do a presentation at the November Regular Meeting.
Update –
Auditor’s report for fiscal year 2023 – 2024 audit was presented by Elsa the project manager. The audit was submitted to the Local Government Commission timely and approved with no changes. The auditor Martin Starnes was able to render an unmodified/clean opinion; which is the best possible opinion that you can receive.
4. Annual Monitoring Report Results – Fran Way, Applied Technology and Management (Assistant Town Manager Ferguson)
Agenda Packet – pages 39 – 53
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Presentation by Fran Way, ATM regarding our annual beach monitoring.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Our coastal engineer, Fran Way, provides a yearly presentation of the status of the beach strand and dune system regarding erosional and accretional activity. The presentation explores data analysis of our annual beach surveys from the spring. The effort will conclude with an annual report that Is used for a baseline in storm damage events.
The town participates in annual beach monitoring to maintain a healthy beach and dune system and to keep our engineered beach status. These reports are also instrumental in serving as a baseline account of sand volume as compared to post-storm surveys. Mr. Fran Way with ATM will present data from the annual report and highlight changes since last year. His presentation slides are attached to this memo.
Ongoing Beach Management Activities
- USACE 50-year Study
- FEMA Coordination
- LWFIX & Bend-Winder
- LWF Outer Channel Dredging/Navigation
- West End Analysis (OIB Terminal Groin)
- Permit Application for Offshore Borrow Area
Applied Technology Management
ATM is a coastal engineering firm hired by the town to do the following:
- Annual monitoring, data collection and reporting
- Assess sand erosion
- Evaluate nourishment
- FEMA projects cost reimbursement support
- Meet government regulatory permitting conditions
Annual monitoring has been occurring since 2001. We have an engineered beach – which means it has been nourished and is being monitored.
Update –
Fran Way presented the annual beach monitoring report. The slide presentation is in the meeting agenda packet. They have completed the annual survey of the beach strand. Primarily they make sure the beach is healthy. Most sections of the beach strand are stable and had accretion compared to baseline conditions comparison. Beach equilibration has occurred, projects are designed to include a volume of sand that the waves and currents will transport offshore to fill in the lower parts of the beach profile. Some of the sand lost off shore has been coming back in to the system. Ongoing beach management activity has made the beach strand wider and healthier than it was twenty years ago.
Same as it ever was – Once again, Fran was wandering around (I can only assume that he was wandering around since there no longer was any visual) during his presentation; the audio was going in and out so you could not clearly hear everything that he said. Speakers need to talk into the microphone in order for us to hear what they are saying. Which part don’t they get?
5. Discussion and Possible Action on the Results of the Town of Holden Beach 2024 Pavement Condition Survey – Shane Lippard, Right Angle Engineering (Public Works Director Clemmons)
Agenda Packet – page 54, plus separate packet
Pavement Condition Survey » click here
ISSUE/ ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action on the Results of the Town of Holden Beach 2024 Pavement Condition Survey Update
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
This is an update to the Pavement Condition Plan that was established in 2008. Since the plan was implemented, approximately $1.5 million in improvements have been completed. It updates the priority and pricing
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Review and approve.
Analysis of the Results of the 2024 Pavement Condition Survey
Executive Summary
This report presents the results from a Pavement Condition Survey and analyzes the maintenance needs for the Town of Holden Beach’s street system. Right Angle Engineering, Inc. conducted a visual survey of the public (non-State maintained) streets that are maintained by the Town of Holden Beach. The results from this survey were used to determine maintenance needs and estimate their costs.Recommended maintenance activities for the street system are presented in Appendix B. A priority listing, provided in Appendix C, is based on Pavement Condition Ratings (PCR’s). The priority listing does not account for high volume or low volume streets. Streets are categorized by the Town as either low (Class A) or high (Class B) volume streets. Certain Class A or Class B streets may have higher or lower importance for the Town based upon the number of dwelling units served, commercial traffic using the street, or projected land development and traffic growth. Based on field observations, it is assumed that the streets surveyed would be considered Class A streets. We do not anticipate that there are any Class B streets maintained by the Town of Holden Beach at this time.
A. Street Inventory
The Town-maintained street system consists of approximately 12.8 miles of total paved asphalt roadway. As previously mentioned, all of the subject streets are Class A (low volume) roads. Approximately 1.6% of the streets have sidewalk along one side only, while none of the streets have sidewalks on both sides. We did not observe any streets with curb and gutters. AU of the Town-maintained paved streets have an asphalt surface.
B. Pavement Condition
The two primary distress types that require maintenance are alligator cracking and patching. Over 66% of the street system exhibits some degree of alligator cracking while approximately 6% of the system requires some asphalt patching. Some areas of light block/transverse cracking, reflective cracking, rutting, raveling, and bleeding were noted. In addition, the ride quality of some areas was observed to be slightly rough.
C. Maintenance Needs
Of the 12.8 miles of streets inspected, approximately 25% are in need of maintenance. The survey indicated a total estimated maintenance need for plant mix resurfacing of $1,021,874. This represents an average of $72,350 per mile for the entire town street system. It should be noted that this cost estimate is for pavement repair only. Additional costs can be incurred for drainage improvements, administration, utility adjustments, work zone traffic control, and other items. Please note that these costs are variable and can increase the total project cost significantly.
Summary of 2024 Pavement Condition Survey Results for the THB
A. Use of Survey Results
The Pavement Condition Survey is an objective evaluation of the amount and severity of eight types of pavement distress. The results of the survey should never be used arbitrarily. There is no substitute for in-the-field engineering judgment and experience in determining the types of maintenance activities needed. The street listings should be used as a guide for planning and scheduling maintenance activities. It is important to understand how the results were calculated before using this information.
B. Priorities
Although all recommended maintenance activities are needed right away, often there are more maintenance needs than funds available. Therefore, the types of maintenance should be prioritized. High Priority maintenance should include skin patching, short overlays, full-depth patching, crack pouring, and resurfacing of alligator cracking and rutting. Medium Priority maintenance includes resurfacing of severe block/transverse cracking, severe raveling, and severe bleeding. Low Priority maintenance should consist of resurfacing for moderate block/transverse cracking, moderate raveling, rough ride quality, and severe patching. Table 8 shown below lists these levels of priority with the anticipated cost for each level and the cost per mile for work in that priority range.
Pavement Condition Rating / PCR Listing
The type and amount of distress that was observed on each street was used to obtain a Pavement Condition Rating (PCR). A 66 – 80 rating indicates a general condition of just fair.
The following streets had the lowest PCR:
- Sand Dollar / 73
- Heron / 75
- Swordfish / 75
- Tuna / 75
- Lois / 77
- Lumberton / 77
- Charlotte / 78
- Heron Landing / 80
Previously reported – November 2015
Shane Lippard, Right Angle Engineering presented Streets Condition Survey report
We have a total of 12.8 paved asphalt roadways
Subject streets are Class A (low volume) roads
40% of the roads need maintenance
Total estimated costs are a whopping $1,200,000
The average cost of $93,750 per mile for the entire street system
The cost estimate is for pavement repair only, with the costs being variable
Draft report is a planning document
Surface evaluation was done rating each street and prioritizing the work that needs to be done
Recommended we address it with a ten-year game plan, budgeting accordingly, tackling it on a yearly basis
Understandably we can expect our streets to continue to degrade while costs will continue to go up
In 2015 the Board implemented a tax increase of $.010 specifically for street paving and maintenance. The penny worth of tax revenue earmarked for paving is money that is already in the budget.
Ad Valorem Tax
Estimated 2024 tax base is $2,402,018,650
Tax rate of $.14 per $100 of assessed value
- $2,402,018,650 X $.14 = $3,362,827
- $3,362,827 X 99.20 = $3,335,924 (Tax collection rate of 99.20%)
A penny generates $240,202 of tax revenue
2024 – High Point Street / $115,250
2023 – Tide Ridge Drive, Pointe West Drive and Ranger Street / $126,000
2022 – Seagull Drive / $208,150
. * The cost was split between the Town and the properties on Seagull
2021 – BAE from Rothschild to Ferry / $123,000
Update –
A penny worth of tax revenue ($240,202 ) is earmarked specifically for street paving and maintenance and is already in the budget.
6. Police Report – Chief Jeremy Dixon (Written Report Only)
Agenda Packet – pages 55 – 60
Police Report » click here NA
Chief Dixon, Lieutenant Dilworth, and Sgt. Milligan are all currently at the NC Justice Academy for three days of 2025 Legal and In-Service Training Updates. As Certified Law Enforcement Instructors, this material is what we bring back each year to train our officers.
October’s report shows nothing of significant concern to bring to the board’s attention.
Internally, one officer has tendered his resignation to seek other opportunities. We now have 4 vacancies (3 patrol, I detective). We have also exhausted all efforts on background investigations and interviews for applicants and have not found a suitable candidate or extended an offer of employment. We currently have no active applications on which we are working.
We would like to assure the community that even though we are short-staffed, we are as dedicated as ever to being vigilant in our duties to this community and maintaining the safety and well-being of everyone.
From our family at the Holden Beach Police Department to your family –
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Previously reported – October 2024
We are in the shoulder season, they experienced a normal seasonal decline of activity
The Chief reminded everyone that runners and walkers should be on the sidewalk not in the bike lane
Hunting season is underway, it is prohibited within Town limits
Personnel announcement
Not only did they not fill the open detective position, but another officer has resigned
The department now has four (4) vacancies
The police department currently has only seven (7) officers of the eleven (11) they are budgeted to have
Having the full complement of eleven (11) police officers seems to be an elusive goal.
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.
7. Inspections Department Report – Inspections Director Evans
Agenda Packet – pages 61 – 63
Inspections Report » click here NA
ACTIVE NEW HOME PERMITS = 31
OTHER ACTIVE PERMITS = 421
PERMITS ISSUED OVER $30,000 = 40
* AMOUNT INCLUDED IN ACTIVE TOTAL
PERMITS ISSUED OVER $100,000 = 5
* AMOUNT INCLUDED IN ACTIVE TOTAL
PERMITS ISSUED SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENTS = 0
* AMOUNT INCLUDED IN ACTIVE TOTAL
PERMITS ISSUED WAITING PICK UP = 25
TOTAL PERMITS = 477
PERMITS IN REVIEW = 7
CAMA ISSUED = 4
ZONING ISSUED = 16
PERMITS SERVICED FOR INSPECTIONS FROM 10/08 – 11/07 = 100
TOTAL INSPECTIONS MADE = 199
Update –
Timbo congratulated Janna Pigott our Development Services Officer since she has obtained her Floodplain Management certification. Timbo briefly reviewed department activity last month, the department has not been as busy. Right now, they have a steady stream of work, construction usually cranks up as the weather gets cooler.
Contractors Information Seminar
The Planning & Inspections Department, supported by the town staff, hosted
the thirteenth annual Contractors Information Seminar. Contractors and electricians were able to earn two (2) hours of continuing education credits.
8. Finance Department Report – Finance Officer McRainey
Agenda Packet – pages 64 – 67
Finance Report » click here NA
Revenues to Watch
AD VALOREM TAX
FY 24 / 619,755
FY 25 / 11,384
PARKING REVENUE
FY 24 / 393,054
FY 25 / 400,883
OCCUPANCY TAX
FY 24 / 3,089,453
FY25 / 3,154,726
Revenues are looking good through October very comparable to last year other than the Ad Valorem tax which is a result of billing later than last year. Parking and occupancy tax revenues show a slight increase over last year.
Revenues vs. Expenditures by Fund
Three graphs were presented, with fiscal year comparisons of the following funds:
. 1) General Fund
. 2) Water/Sewer Fund
. 3) BPART Fund
BPART Fund – Beach Preservation / Access & Recreation / Tourism
BPART is a Special Revenue Fund authorized by act of the General Assembly which allows the Town to collect six cents of an Accommodations Tax for the purposes of funding beach preservation and tourism related expenses.
Update –
Daniel briefly reviewed the status of each of the three (3) funds.
9. Town Manager Report – Town Manager Hewett
Agenda Packet – pages 68 – 69
Town Manager Report » click here NA
Greensboro Street / Sewer Lift Station #2
Action item to increase state funding on November meeting agenda tonight
Engineer and Staff had meeting with contractor and DWR representative
Awaiting contractor’s final insurance documents before issuing Notice to Proceed
Previously reported – October 2024
We have approvals from both the EPA and NCDWQ
Awaiting TerraHawk contract review
David anticipates having it by the end of the week
The next step is for the Town Attorney to review the documents
The Town can then execute the contract with the subsequent Notice to Proceed
Ocean Boulevard Bike Lane
DOT reviewing requirements for agreement needed for Town to conduct street sweeping
Quote in hand for maintenance cleaning
Previously reported – October 2024
NCDOT cost overrun
Estimate $1,722,364: actual $1,797,424
The delta is $75,060 with the Town’s share being 42%, which would be $31,525
David is coordinating with DOT to review the project and identify potential alternative funding to satisfy overrun
Maintenance –
DOT advises that state’s standard of care is not what Town will require
Staff reviewing options for service provision: in-house versus contract for sweeping
We will need an agreement with the DOT for the Town to conduct street sweeping
Bike Lane Maintenance
Good news: We have a bike lane now
Bad news: We are not even doing routine maintenance of the bike lane
A significant number of locations of the bike lane have sand, gravel, rocks, and broken glass from recycling trucks. Therefore, it is UNSAFE especially for young and/or inexperienced bicycle riders. Not a good situation, if someone goes down they could easily slide into the traffic lane, which would have some serious negative consequences. NCDOT only provides maintenance service a few times a year. Standard protocol is for the town to take care of the bike lane with their staff. If Public Works is unable to get it done perhaps we should consider a contract with a vendor to handle routine maintenance until they are able to do it. Any lawn maintenance service with a blower should be able to take care of it in the interim. This is a safety issue that needs to be addressed, sooner rather than later.
Key Bridge Mediation Agreement
Quinton Street/ 114 OBE – Public Beach Access & Restroom Facility
All ADA requirements have been met
Certificate of Occupancy has been issued
The facility is fully operational now
Ave E – Public/Emergency Beach Access and Restroom Facility
Notice to Proceed issued with due date of February 1st
THB Newsletter (11/15/24)
Advisory
The lot at the end of Avenue E will be closed to complete ADA improvements beginning Monday until further notice. Work is estimated to last until February. Access may be impacted in that area during this time frame.
Previously reported – October 2024
Notice to Proceed issued to Babson contract for $168,365
Due date of February 1st
Previously reported – September 2024
This is the area at the far east end of the island. They have obtained the necessary permits for ADA compliant parking, public and emergency accesses, and restroom facilities. Request for Proposal has been drafted. Anticipate construction would begin in the fall and must be completed by the March 2025 deadline.
801 OBW – Public Beach Access
Walkway construction has been completed
Handrails were installed today
Access is not open at this time
Previously reported – October 2024
Notice to Proceed issued to Jesse & Meyers contract for $48,900
Due date of November 15th
Previously reported – September 2024
They have made some design refinements for the Emergency and Public Access there to accommodate the adjacent properties. A CAMA permit has been applied for. We still need to build a walkway there.
Fire Prevention
Staff coordinated a meeting with the rental property companies. Representatives from three (3) of the major companies attended. Two (2) of the companies currently provide information regarding regulations concerning open flame devices. The third company does not allow charcoal grills and did not want to provide information on items they prohibit. The companies already have been working with their homeowners and renters to educate them on the rules and to come up with ways to encourage people from moving these devices under their homes. They were not receptive to the idea of the Town ordering magnets to help with education.
Previously reported – October 2024
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion on possible actions for non-legislative actions to inform the public of the Holden Beach General regulation 91.17 restriction concerning the placement of open flame devices
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Several residents have observed the practice of using open flame devices under houses in violation of 91.17 (attached). This usually is the result of the individual having no knowledge of the regulation’s required standoff distance. It is desirable to find an effective means of informing the public about this important safety issue., particularly because houses typically burn in 2;3 or 3’s due to proximity and environmental concerns.
§91.17 OPEN FLAME DEVICES.
Charcoal burners and other open flame devices shall not be operated on or within ten feet of combustible construction. Exception: propane fueled grills.
Discussion was about ways of informing the public concerning the placement of open flame devices. They tossed around a couple of ideas and they felt that they could communicate most effectively through the property management companies. It was decided to have the staff contact the property management companies to get their input on ways to improve communications regarding Town ordinances.
Editor’s Note –
It is my understanding that Hobbs Realty addresses this issue by recommending, if they opt for charcoal, that each rental property have park grills fixed in place away from the structure. That seems like a pretty simple solution, albeit with a minor cost for each rental property. They also notify guests in arrival emails of pertinent ordinances like this one. I’m thinking those are ideas could be a benchmark for the other rental companies.
THB Newsletter (10/24/24)
Fire Prevention
October is Fire Prevention Month, with a goal to raise fire safety awareness and help protect homes and families. According to the National Fire Protection Association, unattended cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and in America, fire departments respond to a fire every 23 seconds! We ask for your help with our efforts to protect the property and lives on Holden Beach. Remember, our Code of Ordinances prevents the use of charcoal burners and other open flame devices on or within 10 feet of any combustible construction.
Tracking Tool
Previously reported – October 2024
The BOC’s are looking for a status report on a monthly basis, for the eight (8) items listed, in order to track the progress of projects that they have prioritized.
| Objective Description | Status | |
| #2 | ADA Self-Assessment | Nov agenda |
|
ADA bathroom (at block Q) | ||
| #6 | Architect/staff mtg 25 Oct Anticipate bid pkg on street before Thanksgiving | |
| #7 | Fire station Upgrades | Corners Ground truthed; lnsp awaiting needs id from TBFD to dvlp potential configurations |
| #8 | Improve Audio/Video for Town Meetings | staff benchmarked peers and different options. Need quote obtained to install new equipment and broadcast the meetings on a different platform, most likely YouTube. We are in the process of working with a vendor to move forward |
| #14 | Block Q Site Pian | Nov agenda for concert venue |
| #18 | Update Town Website | Website was updated a few years ago after researching what other municipalities have. A suggestion made after the objectives were estab lished was to establish a “Projects” page– which has been accomplished. |
| #19 | Pier Repair/Replacement | RFQ Eng Svs due |
| #26 | Investigate vacuum bypass system | PWD research/No budget 24/25 |
What he did not say –
Stormwater Project Partnership Agreement (PPA)
Previously reported – March 2024
Town staff met with USACE Program Manager in February to develop a draft PPA. Awaiting draft PPA for 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.
Coastal Resources Commission
Previously reported – October 2024
Meeting will be held on OIB in mid-November
They are tracking the Inlet Hazard Area revisions closely
Probably won’t be addressed until sometime next year
Previously reported – September 2022
Discussion of the changes Coastal Resources Commission approved last month to both the rules and Inlet Hazard Area boundaries. Commissioner Kwiatkowski was asking the staff what will be the impact on us here at Holden Beach. Timbo informed us that the boundary and vegetation line overall impact will be minimal to us.
In Case You Missed It –
Veterans Appreciation Luncheon
The Town held its Veterans Appreciation Luncheon on Friday, November 8th.
THB Newsletter (11/11/24)
Thank You to Our Veterans
The Town would like to take a moment to express our gratitude to all the men and women who have served in the armed forces. Veterans Day serves as a special reminder to show appreciation to the past and present members of our military. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made to protect our country and our freedom.
Public Works have put up snowflake decorations on the boulevard light poles
- Purple streetlights are not part of the
holiday decorations they are the LED’s failing
.
Pets on the Beach Strand
Pets – Chapter 90 / Animals / 90.20
Effective September 10th
- Pets allowed back on the beach strand during the hours of 9:00am through 5:00pm
- Dog’s need to be on a leash
- Owner’s need to clean up after their animals
Solid Waste Pick-up Schedule –
starting October once a week
Recycling –
starting October every other week pick-up
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization
Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On September 26, 2024, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to December 20, 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 –
Turkey Trot / November 23rd
Tree Lighting / December 5th
Gingerbread Creation Competition / December 5th
Reindeer Dash / December 14th
Sandy Paws / December 14th
The Chapel Choir Christmas Musical Performance / December 15th
10. Discussion and Review of Site Plan for Potential Concert Venue Location – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 70 – 72
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Review of site plan for potential concert venue location.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The attached site plan was developed by the architect as part of a tasker that was sent to the PRAB. The BOC asked at the October meeting that the site plan come back so the board could review the location of the proposed pavilion on the plan.
Previously reported – October 2024
Discussion and Possible Action on Long-Term Summer Concert Venue – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discuss and possible action on long term summer concert venue
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Previous concert venue (pavilion next to sewer station #1) was condemned and removed before the 2024 concert season
2024 concerts were held at the Bridgewater Park pavilion:
- This required closing the park on Sunday afternoons to prep the area and allow bands to set up
- Portable toilets were rented to provide bathroom facilities (park bathrooms were locked/closed during concerts)
Review Lessons Learned – feedback from town employees and concert goers
Discuss 2025 plan for concerts –
- Bridgeview park again?
- Temporary
- Rented stage somewhere else? (where)
- New pavilion? (where)
Commissioner Thomas wanted to be proactive and start the discussion of what we want to do for concerts next year. They were all over the place, it does not seem that they are all on the same page. Both am interim and permanent location for the summer concerts was discussed. The Board requested to have the site plan, without the parking, that they previously reviewed presented to them again next month. Realistically we are not going to get this resolved for the 2025 concert season. Commissioner Smith said you can’t finish till you start. At least this is a start.
Plans for Block Q are all over the place, it is not a panacea. What if parking is provided elsewhere? We proposed additional parking on Jordan Boulevard way back in 2005. I am not a big fan of the original Boulevard plan (see picture below). The Town owns the property/land on both sides of the current street configuration. I’m thinking more of a promenade down the center, with parking on both sides of it as well as parking on the sides. By incorporating a Jordan Boulevard project with the Block Q project, it would allow us to have a lot more flexibility with what can be done at Block Q, like pickleball and/or a concert venue.
Update –
Some of the Board were ready to move forward with the submitted plans. They were reminded that the Board simply asked where the concert venue could go on Block Q. Commissioners Paarfus and Thomas again suggested that they look at the whole area (Block Q, Pavilion, and Jordan Boulevard) collectively and not proceed piecemeal but rather develop a comprehensive plan. Christy asked for some clarification and direction from the Board. The Board responded that it needs to be discussed before asking staff to do anything else.
No decision was made – No action taken
11. Discussion and Possible Action on the Second DEQ Offer to Fund Greensboro Street Lift Station – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
. a) Resolution 24-09, DEQ Project No. SRP-W-134-0021
. b) Ordinance 24-16, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 24-11, The Revenues . and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 24-25 (Amendment No. 2)
. c) Ordinance 24-17, Capital Project Ordinance
Agenda Packet – pages 73 – 94
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on the second DEQ Offer to Fund Greensboro Street Lift Station Document.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The funding offer was first accepted by the board in May in the amount of $1,940,000. Since that time, NCDEQ has prepared an increased offer based on their administrative requirements decreasing. The new offer in the amount of $1,970,000 will need to be accepted by resolution.
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Accept funding offer and adopt resolution and capital budget accordingly.
The BOC first accepted an offer to fund the Greensboro Street Lift Station Project in May, in the amount of $1,940,000, from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). On October 23, 2024, we received new funding offer documents from DEQ. Upon inquiry, the project manager explained that SL 2024-1 reduced the Division of Water Infrastructure administrative requirement, first calculated at 3%, and our new offer to fund is $1,970,000. The BOC will need to accept the new offer to fund and the attached resolution and capital budget and direct Town Manager Hewett to execute documents.
Update –
Not very often that the DEQ contacts us to offer thirty thousand dollars of additional funds. The BOC’s accepted the offer and approved everything as requested.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
12. Discussion and Possible Action on Ordinance 24-18, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 24-11, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 24-25 (Amendment No. 3, 796 Ocean Boulevard West) – Finance Officer McRainey
Agenda Packet – pages 95 – 96
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Approval of budget amendment to be able to use proceeds from the sale of 796 to pay off associated debt.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The town sold the property at 796 OBW through an upset bid process and the proceeds were booked to miscellaneous revenue in the Water/Sewer Fund. The debt will be paid down at the next payment date in April.
Previously reported – October 2024
796 OBW
Tentative closing date of October 17th
They will temporarily book proceeds from that sale to Water & Sewer miscellaneous revenue account
Follow-up in November, he will bring a budget amendment for the Board to authorize debt prepayment
Update –
Budget amendment for the Board to authorize debt prepayment
Simply a housekeeping item
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
13. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposal Received for ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan Request for Proposals and Alternative Option– Inspections Director Tim Evans
Agenda Packet – page 97, plus separate packet
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Alternative Action.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Action Required from Commissioners Goals and Objectives. Staff Recommends an assessment be performed by the Planning Department, and if needed then funds already budgeted can be used for any outside additional consulting deemed necessary.
ADA Self-Evaluation Report » click here
Accessibility Consulting Partners (ACP) proposal for a complete ADA Self-Evaluation Transition Plan is $98,150
The project scope is comprised of the following:
- Initiation/Grievance Procedure
- Facilities Survey/Inventory
- Transition Plan/Public Outreach
- Review of Town Policies, Programs, and Practices
- Website Assessment
ADA Self-Evaluation
Previously reported – October 2024
ADA Self-Assessment Request For Proposals due October 15th
We received only one response and that was to the tune of $100,000
Previously reported – September 2024
The Town of Holden Beach is requesting proposals from qualified individuals and firms for consulting services related to an ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan. The Town is specifically looking for firms that specialize in providing ADA consulting as a core business function.
Update –
Timbo explained that the outside vendor is really for larger municipalities. He recommended that we do it in house, the staff is more than capable of doing this and are doing many of those things already. Really it was a no-brainer, we get the assessment done and get to keep the money too. Timbo was asked by the Board to prepare a plan for the staff to do an assessment that meet DOJ requirements for small towns.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
14. Review Conceptual Proposal for a Public Private Partnership for the Pier Building with Possible Action to Issue a Request For Proposals – Commissioners Smith and Dyer
Agenda Packet – pages 98 – 117
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Review conceptual proposal for a public private partnership for the pier building with possible action to issue a request for proposals.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: There are organizations or entities who would submit a formal proposal to demolish and rebuild the pier building via a public private partnership, but an unsolicited proposal is not allowed. Therefore, reviewing a conceptual proposal to consider issuing a request for proposals is an option to move the project forward.
Previously reported – April 2024
Holden Beach Pier Property
. a) Holden Beach Community Alliance Presentation of Their Petition to Save the . Pier – Commissioners Smith and Dyer
. b) Discussion and Possible Action on Pier Property Development – Mayor Pro . Tem Myers and Commissioner Paarfus
. c) Discussion and Possible Action to Request Staff to Issue a Request for . Proposals to Repair or Rebuild the Holden Beach Pier that will Meet North . Carolina Building Codes – Commissioners Smith and Dyer
. d) Discussion and Possible Action to Request Staff to Issue a Request for . Proposals to Repair or Replace the Building at the Town Property Located at . 441 Ocean Boulevard West – Commissioners Smith and Dyer
Agenda Packet – pages 67 – 98, plus separate packet
13b)
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on Pier Property Development
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The purpose is to develop a project approach for the pier property based on the attached information
It is imperative that it be understood that the pier is an amenity and will have to compete against critical projects infrastructure and other non-critical for funding. Examples of critical infrastructure projects include water system capacity increases, stormwater projects, tire station replacement (for 24/7 manning), road paving, beach and inlet maintenance, etc.
SUMMARY
The purpose of this document is to initiate discussion concerning development of the pier property by providing a baseline approach to that development. It is not intended to be the final project plan, but to serve as a starting point. Development of the pier property should encompass the entire property, not just the pier and pier building, with priority given to addressing the pier. Phases have been suggested to make the development financially manageable. A notional timeline for preliminary work has been outlined with possible funding scenarios to accomplish it. Last information concerning public private partnerships is provided along with stakeholder information.
Pier Property Development Plan » click here
Commissioner Parfus discussed a detailed plan for a project approach to develop the pier property. It appears that he really did his homework, was very prepared, knew his stuff, and offered a viable game plan to move the project forward. Motion was made to approve the development plan that he submitted for the pier property.
13d)
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Request staff to issue RFP (Request for Proposal) to repair or replace the building located at the town property located at 441 OBW HB. The building will need to meet North Carolina Building Codes Requirements
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The purpose is to have recreational space on the property that allows for retail, food vendors, restrooms/outdoor showers and an entry/ticket booth to the towns pier. A private/public partnership with town would be welcomed. The staff would direct this type of partnership.
Previously reported – March 2024
Commissioners Smith and Dyer are now proposing a public/private partnership. This step is simply a request to get proposals to see if there is any interest in privately doing this project. They say that there is, including one from previous Commissioner Murdock. Commissioner Paarfus said that an RFP is premature, in his opinion we need to wait until its decided what we want to do there, so we know what we are asking for. Mayor Pro Tem Myers said that they have asked for and have gotten a lot of input and we should look at what the public said before we head down this path. Although a public/private partnership could be a viable option we are not at the point of putting out a formal request for services yet.
Local Government Commission Approval of Certain Public Enterprise Agreements
Frankly, this is not a viable location for a year-round business and does not have adequate parking for a seasonal business. The parking lot there has been full throughout the fall and winter regardless of the weather. That is without either the pier being available for use or any business running out of the building. There just is not adequate parking there to support beachgoers, fisherman, and whatever else we plan to do with the building. I just don’t see how they think that it could be profitable.
Commissioners Smith and Dyer are again proposing a public/private partnership for the building at the pier property. Motion was made directing the Town staff to contact the Local Government Commission to determine what are the requirements, and what is the approval process for a public/private partnership.
Update –
Item was removed from the agenda
This has been on the agenda twice before, it is still premature, they are waiting for the Local Government Commission response. They had the same discussion that they have had before. Not right time, would like to stick to our plan, defer until we are ready. When we reach the point of having specific plans we can explore the option then, just not at this time.
15. Executive Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3), To Consult with the Town Attorney
Update –
Shortly after coming out of Executive session a motion was made to terminate Town Manager David Hewitt’s contract. Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas were charged to form a subcommittee in order to start the process of finding a new Town Manager.
A decision was made – Approved (3-2)
Commissioners Smith and Dyer opposed the motion
Wait, what just happened? I’m shocked, shocked I tell you. Actually, the only shock is that it took this long to terminate David. I can’t tell you how many conversations I have had with different Commissioners over the years about them wanting to do this. Commissioner Paarfus submitted the agenda item and was the point man. Despite the appearance that this was a spur of the moment action I feel confident in saying if Commissioner Paarfus was involved that this was well planned in advance. David’s behavior must have crossed some red line. Without knowing what actually transpired during the executive session I am comfortable speculating that it is more likely than not that Commissioner Paarfus articulated their position for the justification to terminate the contract. I find it a little hard to swallow that some of the Commissioners are claiming they have no knowledge of the reason. It is never easy to terminate an employee. Applaud them for finally doing what they felt needed to be done.
Holden Beach Town Council votes to fire Town Manager
Some residents of Holden Beach are stunned that Town Council voted to fire its longtime Town Manager. Town Council had a regularly scheduled meeting tonight but went into closed session near the end. When they returned, a motion was made to “terminate Town Manager David Hewitt’s contract, effective December 4th , in accordance with Section 11a of the agreement for employment as Town Manager/ Finance Director dated March 31, 2017.” Council voted 3-2 to move forward with the motion to fire Hewitt, who has been in the position since 2008. Hewitt will be placed on administrative leave on Thursday until the termination goes into effect, and two commissioners will form a sub-committee to start the process of finding a new town manager. After the meeting, a woman could be heard telling off Council members for firing “the best manager that any town could ever have,” adding, “I don’t even know how you all can go home and sleep!” Town Council members would not comment publicly on the firing because it’s a personnel matter.
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Holden Beach board, in 3-2 decision, fires town manager
Holden Beach commissioners Rick Paarfus, Tracey Thomas and Mayor Pro Tem Tom Myers fired longtime town manager David Hewett at the end of Tuesday night’s November 19 town meeting. Following the regular meeting, the board went into closed session to discuss a personnel matter. Within only a few minutes they were back in open session, where Paarfus announced Hewett would be terminated. “Mr. Hewett, we’re going to terminate your contract,” Paarfus said. “I make the motion to terminate town manager David Hewett’s contract effective Dec. 4, 2024, in accordance with section 11A of the agreement for employment as town manager/finance director, dated March 31, 2017 in amendments there to. The town manager is to return all town property to town hall and remove his personal belongings from town hall by close of business November (20), 2024. The town manager shall be placed on administrative leave starting Nov. 21, 2024 through Dec. 4, 2024.” “The town attorney is directed to work with the town human resource officer to complete the separation before December 31, 2024. Commissioners Thomas and Myers are to form a subcommittee to start the process of finding a new town manager,” Paarfus said. Myers seconded Paarfus’s motion and, with Thomas, outvoted commissioners Rick Smith and Page Dyer to pass the motion 3-2. “[This is] the most unprofessional event I’ve ever been a part of,” Mayor Alan Holden said after the meeting adjourned following the vote. Holden left the building before he could be reached for further comment. Asked for comment on the reasoning for Hewett’s termination, Paarfus and Thomas claimed they cannot speak on personnel matters. “It’s a personnel situation. I’m not going to comment on it,” Paarfus said. “We legally can’t comment on it,” Thomas said. Myers immediately left the building once the meeting was adjourned, so he could not be reached for comment. Dyer said the three commissioners did not provide any explanation or rationale for terminating Hewett’s contract during the closed session. “It’s absolutely ridiculous. I don’t know what else I can say. It’s absolutely ridiculous,” Dyer said. “I can’t talk about closed session. I have no idea what their reasoning is. All I can say is I’m absolutely flabbergasted and disappointed.” Commissioner Rick Smith said Tuesday night’s closed session was the first time Hewett’s termination was considered. “The part I don’t understand is we went into executive session a while back to discuss personnel issues and, I can’t divulge exactly what was said, but it was to try to give him some set goals and things that we wanted done, and he tried to do that tonight with his report. I just don’t see how they think anybody else can come in to this small community and fit in and know the things that need to be done. It’s just devastating,” Smith said. “I think that this was probably the worst thing that could ever happen to Holden Beach. David Hewett has spent countless hours with government officials getting us the things that we need to keep this beach going. I don’t think the people that terminated him tonight have any idea of the things that he’s done for Holden Beach over the years. I’m really saddened, just about saddened to tears. “But I surely hope that the voters and the people of Holden Beach realize that it was not the consensus of the entire board of commissioners,” Smith said. Hewett, who had been employed with the town since 2008, declined to comment following the meeting.
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Brunswick beach town suddenly fires its town manager. Here’s what we know.
A Brunswick beach town has decided to terminate its long-time town manager and finance director. Holden Beach commissioners voted during a meeting Tuesday night to fire Town Manager and Finance Director David Hewett. Here’s what we know.
What happened?
The board conducted business as usual during its regular meeting on Tuesday until one final motion. Following a closed session to discuss personnel, Commissioner Rick Paarfus motioned to fire Hewett. “Mr. Hewett, we’re going to terminate your contract,” Paarfus said as he faced Hewett. Hewett’s termination is effective Dec. 4. However, the board decided to place Hewett on administrative leave starting Nov. 21 until Dec. 4. Hewett was directed to gather his personal belongings and return personal property by end of day Nov. 20. Commissioners did not discuss the termination because it is a personnel matter, Commissioner Tracey Thomas said. Commissioners Paarfus, Thomas and Mayor Pro-Tem Tom Myers voted in favor of Hewett’s termination while Commissioners Page Dyer and Rick Smith voted in opposition. The board turned to the town attorney for guidance on rules for discussing the matter but, Dyer said, the attorney “had no idea.” Hewett, who has been with the town since 2008, left without a word after the motion to fire him succeeded. Mayor Alan Holden called the situation “unprofessional” before banging the gavel to abruptly end the meeting without calling a vote to adjourn. StarNews reached out to all board members for comment but have not received responses from Myers, Smith, Thomas and Paarfus as of noon Wednesday.
Some Board members say it’s a ‘sad day’ for the town
“I had no idea that the three new commissioners had planned and were going to follow through with this,” Holden said. “David Hewett’s service to Holden Beach was professional, loyal and very productive. This is a sad day for this town.” Dyer echoed Holden’s gloomy view for the town and that her, the mayor and Smith were blindsided. The way Hewett was fired was unfair, Dyer said. “No, I have no reason why he was fired,” she said. “The man does his job; he’s done everything we asked him to do. … I’m completely lost.” Asked if the closed session discussion about Hewett changed her mind on Hewett as a person or town manager, she said no. “They have decimated our staff. … He’s been the best town manager,” Dyer said.
What now?
Commissioners Thomas and Myers are to form a subcommittee to start the process of finding a new town manager.
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Holden Beach fires town manager
The Town of Holden Beach voted to fire its town manager Tuesday, Nov. 19. At its meeting, available online here, the board of commissioners voted 3-2 to terminate Town Manager David Hewett. Right before the vote, Commissioner Rick Parfus said: Mr. Hewett, we are going to terminate your contract. I make the motion to terminate Town Manager David Hewett’s contract effective December 4, 2024, in accordance with section 11A of the agreement for employment as town manager/finance director, dated March 31, 2017, in amendments thereto. The town manager is to return all town property to town hall and remove his personal belongings from town hall by close of business November 20, 2024. The town manager shall be placed on administrative leave starting November 21, 2024, through December 4, 2024. The town attorney is directed to work with the town human resource officer to complete this separation before December 31, 2024. Commissioners [Tracey] Thomas and [Tom] Myers are to form a subcommittee to start the process of finding a new town manager. In a statement, Holden Beach Mayor J. Alan Holden says he and the two commissioners who voted against terminating Hewett were surprised by the motion. “My personal opinion is it is a sad day for the town of Holden Beach to have lost such a talented town manager,” said Holden. Holden said no reason was given for Hewett’s firing and the three council members that voted to fire him were recently elected. “David Hewett has served the town professionally, honorably, and effectively about as much as someone can do by getting grants and organizing town functions. He has served us for 16 years and through those years Holden Beach was recognized nationally as the number one family beach in America. The growth and services of the town have been more than satisfactory during his employment. The millions of dollars that he and his staff have brought to the town by way of grants and other sources have been astonishing,” said Holden.
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General Comments –
BOC’s Meeting
The Board of Commissioners’ next Regular Meeting is scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month, December 17th
It’s not like they don’t have anything to work on …
The following nine (9) items are what’s In the Works/Loose Ends queue:
- Accommodation/Occupancy Tax Compliance
- Audio/Video Broadcast
- Block Q Project/Carolina Avenue
- Dog Park
- Fire Station Project
- Pavilion Replacement
- Pier Properties Project
- Rights-of-Way
- USACE/Coastal Storm Risk Management Study
- Accommodation/Occupancy Tax Compliance
Upon further review we have decided to revise the Loose Ends list based on the BOC’s prioritized objectives. Frankly, it did not seem that some of the items were going to see the light of day ever again.
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.
.
Lost in the Sauce –
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2023 –
Audio/Video Broadcast
Previously reported – November 2023
The Town has been live streaming their Board of Commissioners meeting on Facebook and later posting the audio to YouTube. I believe that more people participate in virtual meetings than those that physically attend the meetings. It still is difficult to listen to the meetings on Facebook since the audio is so poor, it’s really hard to hear what they are saying. Virtual meeting protocols prescribe them to talk into the microphone, have speakers say their name before commenting, and to take roll call votes, among other suggestions. We should be able to get audio right on the Facebook livestream. It is unacceptable that the audio is so poor. The Town needs to do whatever it takes to get this corrected.
Previously reported – March 2024
The motion was made to direct the Town Staff the task to review and assess what other towns are doing and make recommendations for audio/video improvement. In other words, benchmark what other towns are doing and determine what are the costs associated with providing this service. Commissioner Paarfus specifically requested various price point options.
Accommodation/Occupancy Tax Compliance
Previously reported – November 2023
How this beach town is cracking down on short-term rental properties
Officials in one Brunswick County beach town are looking to keep a closer eye on short-term rental properties. After discovering many short-term rentals in Sunset Beach were underreporting or not reporting proper accommodations tax to the town, town officials have signed a $45,000 yearlong contract with GovOS to help better monitor such properties in the town. GovOS is a software platform that works with state and local governments to streamline various processes involving property, licensing and taxing. GovOS promised its short-term rental software would help increase short-term compliance in the town. According to Sunset Beach staff, research on this subject in the town began over two years ago. GovOS estimated the town has 637 short-term rental properties. Of those, the company estimated that some 200 are fully in compliance with the town’s accommodation tax ordinance. Accommodations tax is a tax on short-term rental properties – properties that are rented through platforms such as AirBnB or VRBO. In Sunset Beach, accommodations taxes are levied at a rate of 6% of the gross rental income, which includes a 3% tourism-related expenditure tax, a 2% beach nourishment and protection tax, and a 1% county tourism and travel tax. According to Sunset Beach, the property owner or agent are required to pay the full 6% tax to the town with a tax report form monthly based on income from the previous month. Even if no rental receipts are applicable for that month, property owners or agents must file reports month. The software will allow the town to identify properties currently being used for short-term rentals – a feat town staff has struggled with in the wake of the explosion of short-term rental platforms such as AirBnB and VRBO. Once the properties are identified, the software will report the short-term rental properties to the town along with a variety of information on the properties and their tax reporting history. The more properties that properly comply, the more accommodations tax revenue the town will receive. According to the town’s budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year, the town anticipates collecting some $775,000 in accommodations taxes, a figure that could be nearly doubled if this software is successful. The Sunset Beach Town Council heard a presentation from GovOS in September before awarding the contract in October, at the request of town staff.
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Hurricane Season
For more information » click here.
Be prepared – have a plan!
Hurricane season isn’t over yet.
Here’s why North Carolina residents need to stay vigilant.
Despite tropical storm-induced flooding in the mountains and along the coast, experts say NC isn’t out of the woods yet as hurricane season drags on
First Tropical Storm Debby, a slow-moving storm that trudged up the East Coast in early August before making a second landfall along the central South Carolina coast, drenched the Cape Fear region with more than 15 inches of rain in places. A little more than a month later, an unnamed storm that wasn’t deemed a big enough threat to close many schools swamped parts of southern New Hanover County and much of Brunswick County with another massive deluge. The nearly 20 inches of rain in some areas caused extensive flash flooding, collapsed roads, and destroyed several bridges. Then Tropical Storm Helene blew into the state three weeks ago, pummeling Asheville and the North Carolina mountains. The record-setting rainfall, more than 18 inches in some places, washed out roads and bridges, knocked out power to nearly 2 million people in the Carolinas − with 14,000 N.C. customers still without power as of Wednesday, and killed at least 95 people in the state with dozens still unaccounted for. North Carolina has been hammered on both ends of the state by tropical weather systems this year, making 2024 one of the worst hurricane seasons the state has seen in a long time. And while it might be mid-October and temperatures are already beginning to fall, experts warn that the Tar Heel State needs to stay on alert for another possible visit from Mother Nature. Several factors are contributing to officials’ concerns, but chief among them is the impact climate change is having on temperatures and weather patterns. “So, no, we are definitely not out of the woods for this season,” said Dr. Michael Mann, a meteorologist and scientist at the University of Pennsylvania, in an email.
Does North Carolina get late-season hurricanes?
On Oct. 15, 1954, Hurricane Hazel made landfall near the North Carolina/South Carolina state line. The storm remains the only Category 4 hurricane to ever hit the Carolinas. After wiping clean some of the Brunswick County barrier islands with storm surge that exceeded 18 feet in places, the monster storm barreled inland at speeds of more than 50 mph. That allowed Hazel to bring hurricane-force winds well inland, to places like Fayetteville, Raleigh and Goldsboro. While Hazel might be a bit of an outlier, it isn’t the only storm that has impacted North Carolina late in hurricane season. Others include 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, which brought substantial overwash to the Outer Banks and nearly a foot of snow to the N.C. mountains in late October, and 2018’s Tropical Storm Michael that left more than 400,000 without power and flooded many coastal communities. Hurricane Matthew also hit the state in October 2016, flooding nearly 100,000 structures across much of Eastern North Carolina and causing billions in damages. Remnants of tropical systems that form and then fall apart farther south also can wander north and impact parts of the state, especially coastal areas as they ride the Gulf Stream north.
How is the rest of the 2024 hurricane season shaping up?
As of Wednesday, the National Hurricane Center was tracking two tropical disturbances in the Atlantic basin, with the one in the mid-South Atlantic on track to hit the northern Caribbean and then potentially Florida. If it strengthens enough, it would become Tropical Storm Nadine. They are unlikely to be the last systems of the season to attract the attention of meteorologists. Before hurricane season officially began June 1, officials were expressing concern over how bad it might be. With climate change warming the oceans and air temperatures seemingly hitting new highs every month, they said it really was only a question of just how brutal the season would be. But for most of the summer, aside from Beryl, which was a rare major June hurricane, the reality on the ground seemed to confound the predictions, with Saharan dust blowing off Africa helping limit storm formation for much of June, July and into August. Then Debby, Ernesto, Francine and Helene came barreling ashore − not to mention the no-name storm that pummeled Southeastern North Carolina. Mann said conditions remain ripe for more storm activity. He said sea surface temperatures remain very warm, largely a result of heat-trapping gasses pumped into the atmosphere tied to human activity. Warmer ocean water helps fuel storms, allowing them to intensify more quickly and grow bigger and stronger. They also can hold their strength longer and travel farther inland, and hotter ocean temperatures allow them to travel farther north, striking areas that aren’t used to seeing raging hurricanes on the horizon. Mann said we’re also still transitioning toward a La Niña climate pattern. That will mean decreased wind shear in the tropical Atlantic and a more favorable environment for tropical cyclones. “That combination of factors tends to lead to very late seasons,“ Mann said. “2005 is the definitive example, where we saw named storms into the new year.” The record-setting 2005 hurricane season included 28 named storms and 15 hurricanes. Four of those reached Category 5 strength, and seven of the storms formed in October, another three in November. Although hurricane season is supposed to end Nov. 30, the 2005 season continued until Jan. 6 and was so busy the National Hurricane Center had to use the Greek alphabet to name some of the storms. Infamous storms from that season included Hurricanes’ Katrina, Rita and Wilma. Another storm, Hurricane Ophelia, raked much of the N.C. coast, causing significant coastal flooding and erosion.
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As hurricane seasons worsen, taxpayers subsidize people to live in risky areas
Helene and Milton spotlight a federal flood insurance program drowning in debt.
Hurricane Helene likely caused more than $30 billion worth of damage. Less than two weeks later, Hurricane Milton inflicted almost $50 billion more. With six weeks left in this hurricane season, the Small Business Administration’s disaster loan program is already out of money. And more tropical storms are swirling over the Atlantic. Who pays for all of this? Because private home insurers generally find this sector of the business unprofitable, the federal National Flood Insurance Program shoulders the burden of providing homeowners inundation coverage — and it has problems. The NFIP is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency — the same body fighting misinformation and dodging vigilantes as it tries to distribute much-needed aid to the victims of Helene and Milton. The program provides nearly $1.3 trillion in coverage to more than 5 million policyholders. It’s funded by the premiums collected from policyholders but borrows from the U.S. treasury when claims it’s obligated to pay outpace revenue, as is often the case. Congress canceled $16 billion in NFIP debt in 2017; since then, the program has borrowed billions more from taxpayers. If Helene and Milton epitomized how destructive hurricanes are becoming in a warming world, the NFIP’s financial woes will only worsen. And yet Congress has made no fundamental reforms to the program since its inception nearly six decades ago. That cannot continue. Congress created the NFIP when private insurers retreated from the flood insurance market after the first storm to cause $1 billion in losses: Hurricane Betsy in 1965. The government stepped in with two conditions, which were intended to avoid “moral hazard,” the phenomenon whereby insuring against a particular risk encourages more people to take it. It required communities to adopt land-use policies that discouraged development in flood-prone areas, and it mandated that homeowners pay “actuarially sound” premiums. Moral hazard took hold anyway, as developers and other real estate interests gamed the system to suppress premiums and permit building in low-lying areas and beachfronts exposed to storms. The upshot is that FEMA flood hazard maps that determine coverage today rely on outdated information so inaccurate that more than 40 percent of NFIP claims made from 2017 to 2019 were for properties outside official flood hazard zones or in areas the agency had not mapped at all. Heavily lobbied by the interested industries, Congress has taken little action to rectify these long-standing issues, which have been festering for decades. Since the end of fiscal 2017, it has enacted 31 short-term NFIP reauthorizations, including the most recent extension through Dec. 20. The one attempt at genuine reform in recent history — the Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 — would have ended subsidized rates for second homes and properties that repeatedly flooded. After Hurricane Sandy, however, coastal-state representatives reversed even these modest improvements. Despite congressional inaction, FEMA took one step in the right direction on its own by implementing its Risk Rating 2.0 pricing methodology. The agency now uses data from private insurers to charge policyholders rates based on variables that more accurately gauge flood risk. But to be solvent and continue providing coverage to homeowners, the NFIP needs larger-scale reforms that require legislative action. Ideally, modern data collection and risk mapping should enable private insurers to resume issuing flood insurance rather than leave the business entirely to the government. In the likely event that doesn’t happen, Congress should at least reinstate the 2012 law’s bans on subsidized premiums for second homes and properties that have been rebuilt multiple times. As climate change raises risks to more areas, investing in updated flood maps would also bring a more fitting geographic region under the NFIP’s purview. That, in turn, would enable stronger enforcement of building standards and tougher flood-risk building requirements. And even if private industry didn’t offer policies directly to consumers, more accurate pricing would help the NFIP appeal to private insurers, which might then share some of the risk by offering “reinsurance” — essentially, insurance protecting insurers, in this case NFIP, from high costs. Still, premiums greatly lag behind risk assessments. Congress should enable FEMA to build on the Risk Rating 2.0 pricing model, adjusting rates to reflect actual risk. Yes, more accurate pricing might raise some homeowners’ premiums. But this necessary step will help the program become fiscally stable and provide coverage in the coming years. It’s simply unfair to ask the entire population to provide deep subsidies for properties that, by definition, only a portion of Americans can occupy and enjoy.
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I hope your Thanksgiving is filled with family and friends
and all of the memories that make you thankful!
November 28, 2024
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