Lou’s Views
“Unofficial” Minutes & Comments
BOC’s Special Meeting 12/06/24
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here NA
Audio Recording » click here
1. Executive Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-381.11 (a)(6), Personnel – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Paarfus
2. Discussion and Possible Action to Appoint Interim Town Manager – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Paarfus
The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on Friday to select an interim town manager. The board had previously voted to terminate David Hewett as town manager. The motion was made to hire Assistant Town Manager Christy Ferguson as the interim town manager effective immediately with an annual salary of $140,000.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
They just hired our Assistant Town Manager Christy Ferguson as the interim town manager effective immediately with an annual salary of $140K. There are forty-five (45) City Manager’s in North Carolina with a town population below 2,500. The average NC town manager salary for that size community is $114K. Christy as Assistant Town Manager is currently making $99K. Understand that a salary adjustment was needed but the Board just gave Christy a $41K raise, that’s a whopping +41% increase and 93% of David’s salary of $151K. Are.. You.. Kidding.. Me?! Who is responsible for this debacle? What were they thinking? Frankly, they really should consider taking a negotiating course. It was my understanding that David did not get any salary increases recently because of a reduction in his work load, having hired both an Assistant Town Manager for $99K and a Finance Officer for $86K. The Board just had an opportunity to adjust the manager’s salary to account for those two positions. Granted for the time being she will be attempting to do two (2) jobs, both her Assistant Town Manager and David’s Town Manager responsibilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics promotional increases typically average between 7% and 12%. A 10% increase would have paid her $109K, which is pretty close (87%) to the NC town managers average salary. That makes more sense especially since the position no longer has the Finance Officer responsibilities. Based on her lack of experience it is usual and customary to come in at the entry pay level for this position. Therefore, she should be paid closer to the bottom of the pay window not the top. There are only six managers that make more than that in the entire state. The flip side is that 87% of the NC town managers make less than that salary of $140K. Unfortunately, they have now set the bar for her or anyone else that they hire to expect the minimum salary of $140K, which is too high. What are they mashugana? Although Christy has the inside track she still needs to demonstrate that she is up to the task and that they should hire her to fill the position. Meanwhile I don’t think we have to promote her and definitely don’t think that it should be a foregone conclusion. We still need to search for the best qualified candidate. I believe we need to hire a headhunter company that provides employment recruiting services to find talent and to locate individuals who meet the specific job requirements we have for our town manager position. There’s a lot of experienced, competent people, with the desired skill sets required, that are out there who would be able and willing to serve our community. We certainly should have plenty of options especially since we now will be paying at least $140K.
Brunswick beach town hires interim manager following recent termination
Less than a month after firing the town manager, one Brunswick beach town board has decided who they want to fill the position temporarily. The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners have chosen an interim town manager before beginning the search for a new, permanent town manager. Here’s the latest.
Recap on what happened in November
Following a less than five-minute closed session to discuss personnel during the Holden Beach Board of Commissioners regular Tuesday, Nov. 19 meeting, Commissioner Rick Paarfus motioned to fire former Town Manager David Hewett. Hewett was with the town since 2008. Commissioners Paarfus, Tracey Thomas and Mayor Pro-Tem Tom Myers voted in favor of Hewett’s termination while Commissioners Page Dyer and Rick Smith voted against. Hewett’s termination became effective Dec. 4. However, the board placed Hewett on administrative leave from Nov. 21 until Dec. 4. Smith, Dyer and Holden said the decision blindsided them and that Hewett was a solid town manager.
What’s new?
Commissioners held a special meeting on Friday to discuss and hire on an interim town manager. The meeting began with a public comments section. “You went about it all the wrong way,” resident Sylvia Pate said about the board’s action toward Hewett, noting it was humiliating. Following public comments, meeting attendees were pushed to stand in the hallway before the doors to the chambers were locked by Town Clerk Heather Finnell. Commissioners then filed into a separate room dedicated for closed sessions – without unlocking the glass doors to the chambers. The closed session was approximately an hour and a half long. Commissioner Dyer was seen reentering the commissioners’ chambers in frustration twice. At one point she was seen speaking to Finnell with anger and another time Dyer exited the room with Holden behind her. Commissioners finished their closed discussion and resumed the open meeting shortly after 10 a.m. Paarfus motioned to hire Assistant Town Manager Christy Ferguson as the interim town manager, effective immediately, with an annual salary of $140,000. Commissioners voted in favor unanimously. “Through the years, Christy has been dedicated, straight forward, couldn’t ask her to have anything any better than what she has done, and she has proved her love for the people and the town of Holden Beach over and over again,” Mayor Alan Holden said. Asked if there were other candidates discussed, the mayor said no. Holden said Hewett did a good job as town manager and constantly encouraged staff to educate themselves in preparation for promotions. “Holden Beach has come a long way in the last 14, 15, 16 years and we appreciate what David did,” he said.
Next steps
The board must follow a process to hire the next town manager, and Holden said the town plans to fulfill all requirements. The start of the process is advertising the town manager position. “I think it’s a good day for the public in the fact that Christy has agreed to stay with us a little while longer,” Holden said. Though Ferguson has only been hired as the interim, Holden said the town is encouraging her to apply for the permanent job.
Read more » click here
BOC’s Regular Meeting 12/17/24
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. Consideration and Possible Action on the Termination of the Coastal Storm Risk Management General Revaluation Corps of Engineers Study – Bob Keistler and/or Brennan Dooley, Corps of Engineers and Interim Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 14 – 25
USACE Presentation » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action on the termination of the Coastal Storm Risk Management General Reevaluation USACE study
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Data produced through Beach-FX and G2CRM modeling conducted by the Corps reveals that a CSRM project is not in the national interest at this time. The Corps will go through its rationale and give the BOC a chance to decide if they want to continue the study effort.
INTERIM TOWN MANAGERS RECOMMENDATION:
Receive report and consider termination of study.
The Town of Holden Beach executed an agreement with the Corps to engage in a Coastal Storm Risk Management (CSRM) study in August of 2021. The Corps has been working through various tasks and alternatives since that time to establish if a beach project is in the national interest. As part of all CSRM studies, the agency is also mandated to consider back bay flooding. Modeling analysis reveals neither project fits the economic model to be in the national interest. The Corps will present this information , and the BOC will need to provide direction on terminating the study effort that is scheduled to conclude in July of 2026. Presentation slides from the agency are included as an attachment.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Conclusion:
- This analysis has not identified a supportable Coastal Storm Risk Management project. The recommendation for this study is the “no action”
- The Corps will finalize study products that are in progress and share all data with the Town of Holden
Recommendation:
- The town should continue its local Coastal Storm Risk Management
Previously reported – April 2021
In order for us to become a USACE beach requires a new study be authorized
Three (3) years / Three (3) levels of review / Three (3) million dollars
- $1.5 million Feds and $1.5 million Town of Holden Beach
Why consider doing a study?
- FEMA is not an insurance policy
- The rule book is changing
- We have to consider risks
Coastal Storm Risk Management Study
This attached draft agreement for a Coastal Storm Risk Management Study (Attachment 1) between the USACE and the Town of Holden Beach represents the inclusion of the study in the Corps work plan for this federal fiscal year. The study was the Town’s number one advocacy priority at the federal level as a proposed means of storm damage reduction . The Town will not know if it is economically and environmentally feasible for us to become a federal beach unless the study is conducted. The attached budget amendment (Attachment 2) in the amount of $500,000 represents the town’s commitment for the upcoming FY for the Town’s share of the total non-federal (Town) study cost of $1,500,000.
If the BOC chooses to pursue the study, a motion will need to be made to authorize the Town Manager to execute the contract document and self-certification of financial capability with the USACE and approve the attached budget amendment.
Christy went through a slide presentation briefly reviewing how we got to this point. The abridged version is that FEMA continues to change the rules for engineered beaches maintenance programs. The study with the USACE gives us another option if we can’t count on FEMA moving forward. Commissioner Kwiatkowski was prepared as usual and had a number of questions for the USACE representatives that were in attendance at the meeting. The Corps representative walked them through the process. Commissioner Sullivan asked a couple additional questions regarding funding. An important takeaway is the federal government contributes 65% of the costs for initial construction, the cost split is 50% between federal and non-federal funding for maintenance nourishment projects. Of course, the major concern is whether there will be adequate funding for not only the study but for an approved project. The Corps rep made it very clear that there is no guarantee, but he felt confident that they both would be funded. He understands that the Town is looking to obtain the best deal possible. FEMA and USACE organizations are both here to help and each have a place. The difference between them is that the USACE is more of a designed project, build, and maintain whereas FEMA is primarily there to help cover emergencies. The BOC’s decided to fund the $1.5 million study and take the funds from the BPART account instead of the Capital Reserve account.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
We just approved spending $1.5 million to potentially switch to USACE—wait for it—after we just received $45 million for FEMA projects. I have some reservations about making the change and was really disappointed that there was not more serious discussions prior to spending that kind of money. Just to be clear I’m for beach nourishment, but I am generally opposed to moving forward with the federal project due to the uncertainty of the funding. Congressional authorization of a project does not necessarily mean that the project will receive federal construction funds. Project authorizations over the years have far outpaced the level of federal appropriations provided. Our portion is $1.5 million just for the Storm Risk Management study, which is a huge amount of money when we don’t even know if the study will be completely funded let alone whether the project will be approved or funded.
Previously reported – September 2022
The Army Corps of Engineers will be presenting recently communicated proposed changes in the Coastal Storm Risk Management Study duration, scope, costs, and potential funding options (slides included in agenda packet) . The board should consider this as an opportunity to obtain clarity on its options going forward. The board may need to consider a letter of intent regarding changes to study para meters.
Additional scope required for the study
EIS, borrow source investigations, backside waterway flooding analysis
This resulted in an additional 11 months of study and a cost increase of – $1.25 M.
USACE briefly reviewed the process and gave us a status update. Hat in hand, they said they are not able to get it done as presented to us; neither in the time frame three (3) years nor for the budget of three (3) million dollars. Additional work beyond what they planned is needed. They realize that they need to take other variables into consideration, and they need to address it now. Colonel Bennett stated that they were not here to advocate for or against the project but were here to communicate capability. The sooner that they get Board approval the better, it would likely be a greater opportunity to be selected. The Board allowed the public to ask any questions that they had. Town Manager will draft letter of intent and the BOC’s will discuss at the Special Meeting scheduled for September 28th.
No decision was made – No action taken
Let me get this straight we already committed $1.5 million for our portion just over one (1) year ago and now they want us to ante up another 1.25 million? The additional cost prohibits us from doing other things that we planned on doing.
Previously reported – October 2022
Colonel Bennett, representing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, presented proposed changes in the Coastal Storm Risk Management Study duration, scope, costs, and potential funding opportunities at the September board meeting. Attached please find the letter of intent the Wilmington District would like from the Board (Attachment 1) to apply for 2019 Disaster Relief Act funding. Prior to the regular September meeting staff consulted with Ward and Smith /Ferguson Group to develop the attached draft letter of intent at Attachment 2; however, the Wilmington District has communicated “HQ would like to see full acknowledgement of the additional time and costs” (Christine Brayman ). Also included is what we have obtained since the meeting to describe actions/costs to date (Attachment 3).
Christy went over the information presented at the last meeting and the potential options available to us. USACE Wilmington District would like the first letter in the packet to be sent from the Board to apply for the 2019 Disaster Relief Act funding. Board approval of the letter of intent is an acknowledgement of the additional time and costs. Motion was made to send the first letter in the packet to the USACE.
The Town of Holden Beach, NC, supports the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington District’s request for Disaster Relief Act of 2019 (DRA19) funding to complete the Brunswick County Beaches, Holden Beach Portion, General Reevaluation Report (GRR) at 100% Federal cost . We understand the current study cost is $4,250,000 and will now require an additional 11 months to complete the study for a total of 47 months due to additional requirements. If DRA19 funding is approved, the Town understands that no further non-Federal contribution would be required to complete the GRR and the cost sharing agreement would be adjusted to reflect this change to 100% Federal funding requirements.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Commissioner Kwiatkowski recommended that we need to consider revisiting our decision because of all the changes that have been made. She questioned whether this is the best thing to do now. Also, she would like them to consider working together with Oak Island on moving forward together with just one project.
If I understood correctly, they did not agree to ante up any additional funds. They are applying to the federal government to produce the money. In addition, I was not really clear if the USACE was asking us for the full $1.25M or to split this amount with them. For the time being we have not committed any additional funds and have just spent $500,000 for the study so far. Stay tuned …
Update –
Representatives from the USACE gave a presentation. The bottom-line is the government requires that the project BENEFITS be greater than the COST, they are not. The project is not in the national interest, which simply means the analysis does not support a Coastal Storm Risk Management project. USACE plan to wrap up the study, close it out, and transfer data to the town. The motion was made to receive the report and initiate termination of the study.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
The Town has spent a total of $1,775,000. Turns out this was a very costly roll of the dice. Both our lobbyist Mike McIntyre and the USACE both assured us that they wouldn’t propose to move forward if they didn’t think that Holden Beach would qualify for the program. What the termination means to us is that we need to reevaluate and change the game plan. The transfer of funds to the Beach & Inlet Reserve Fund is a good start for us to manage and pay for beach nourishment moving forward.
3. Police Report – Chief Jeremy Dixon
Agenda Packet – pages 26 – 30
Police Report » click here
Jeremy reviewed the actions that were taken by them last month
Business as usual for this time of the year
.
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 –
Public Service Announcement
Requested that we all use caution if driving during the holiday season. There is lots of traffic during the holiday and statistically the country has an average of 119 fatalities a day. Please drive safely!
The National Safety Council estimates 720 people may be killed on U.S. roadways during the upcoming holidays: 345 during the Christmas holiday driving period and an additional 375 during the New Year’s holiday driving period.\\
‘Booze It & Lose It’ underway through holidays
Recognized as one of the nation’s most effective anti-drunk-driving campaigns, Booze It & Lose It has created increased awareness of the dangers and the consequences of drinking and driving through innovative education campaigns and extensive enforcement of impaired-driving laws. During each campaign, law enforcement agencies increase the number of patrols and officers in an area, set up checking stations and use local news media to reach out to drivers. Motorists caught driving while impaired could face jail time, lose their driving privileges and pay an average of $10,000 in fines, towing fees and other expenses associated with a DWI. That’s not a small price, and it doesn’t even count the heftier price: the potential cost of a lost life. Even with the success of Booze It & Lose It, more than 9,000 people have lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes in North Carolina since the program’s introduction in 1994. During enforcement campaigns, law enforcement agencies increase the number of saturation patrols, set up checking stations and use local news media to reach out to all drivers.
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.
4. Inspections Department Report – Inspections Director Evans
Agenda Packet – pages 31 – 33
Inspections Report » click here
ACTIVE NEW HOME PERMITS = 29
OTHER ACTIVE PERMITS = 445
PERMITS ISSUED OVER $30,000 = 47
* 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 = 20
TOTAL PERMITS = 494
PERMITS IN REVIEW = 4
CAMA ISSUED = 3
ZONING ISSUED = 19
PERMITS SERVICED FOR INSPECTIONS FROM 11/07 – 12/06 = 100
TOTAL INSPECTIONS MADE = 219
Update –
Timbo briefly reviewed department activity last month, the department has not been as busy. Right now, they have a steady stream of work, they’ve seen a pickup in construction.
5. Finance Department Report – Finance Officer McRainey
Agenda Packet – pages 34 – 37
Finance Report » click here
Revenues to Watch
AD VALOREM TAX
FY 24 / 1,839,859
FY 25 / 1,030,109
PARKING REVENUE
FY 24 / 423,057
FY 25 / 439,956
OCCUPANCY TAX
FY 24 / 3,254,203
FY25 / 3,314,590
Ad Valorem tax collections through November are still behind from last year but this is not concerning considering bills went out later this year and we should have a better picture of Ad Valorem collection in January/February.
Parking revenue is trending higher as it should being the first year of paid parking through the winter months.
Occupancy tax revenues continue to trend slightly higher than 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
GENERAL FUND – REV / EXP
FY 24 / 2,382,151 / 1,323,474
FY 25 / 1,475,715 / 1,261,172
WATER/SEWER FUND – REV / EXP
FY 24 / 2,010,247 / 1,353,835
FY 25 / 2,085,302 / 1,554,170
BPART FUND – REV / EXP
FY 24 / 4,001,321 / 2,960,723
FY25 / 3,920,667 / 2,438,503
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.
6. Town Manager Report – Interim Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 38 – 39
Town Manager Report » click here
Greensboro Street / Sewer Lift Station #2
Department of Environmental Quality offer to fund signed and returned to the State
Copy of Insurance and Exhibit 8 executed by contractor, updated certificate of insurance
Notice to proceed processed and returned
Previously reported – November 2024
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
Key Bridge Mediation Agreement
Mediation Agreement Quarterly Meetings
Meeting was held on 12/4/24
Ave E – Public/Emergency Beach Access and Restroom Facility
Contractor started work
Previously reported – November 2024
Notice to Proceed issued with due date of February 1st
THB Newsletter (12/12/24)
Advisory
Reminder, the lot at the end of Avenue E is closed to complete ADA improvements until further notice. Access will be impacted in the area during this timeframe. Barriers will be placed in the area to facilitate the work. Work is estimated to last until February.
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
Final inspection was completed
The Town plans to do matting there, although it is not part of the agreement
Previously reported – November 2024
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.
Coastal Storm Risk Management Study
Update in the packet for tonight
Depending on action, follow up required at the federal level 12/18/24
Recycling Program
Action item on agenda this evening
Be mindful to get renewals in
Emergency Operations Center
The EOC building is being used by Tri-Beach Fire Department while they renovate their fire station on Sabbath Home
Congressionally Directed Spending (Senate)
Community Project Funding (House)
Funding formally known as earmarks
BOC’s should begin to consider upcoming requests
Potential January agenda topic
Timing of federal forms release unknown
BOC’s needs to consider things like the 5113 Environmental Infrastructure program, Stormwater, LWF Inlet, and continuation of other policies
Employee Updates
Public Works gained an employee in mid-November.
Replaces the Public Services Supervisor vacancy left when Scott Cunningham retired
The current Fiscal Operations Supervisor Margaret Lancaster is retiring
Agenda item has change in work responsibilities for our Finance Officer
Canal Subdivisions
CAMA permit renewals are staggered and being processed
Ocean Boulevard Bike Lane
Should have maintenance agreement for the January meeting
NCDOT will pick up the tab
Do not think that quarterly maintenance is really adequate although it is better than nothing
Previously reported – November 2024
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.
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.
- #2 ADA Self-Assessment
- #6 ADA bathroom (at block Q)
- #7 Fire station Upgrades
- #8 Improve Audio/Video for Town Meetings
- #14 Block Q Site Plan
- #18 Update Town Website
- #19 Pier Repair/Replacement
- #26 Investigate vacuum bypass system
Christy briefly reviewed the status of each of the eight (8) items listed
The current status is in the Town Manager Report
What she 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 –
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
- Purple streetlights are not part of the
Town Hall Holiday Schedule
Town Hall will be closed December 24th, 25th, 26th and January 1st in observance of the holidays.
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 December 20, 2024, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to March 14, 2025.
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 –
NA
7. Discussion and Possible Approval of 2025 Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Schedule – Town Clerk Finnell (Interim Town Manager Ferguson)
Agenda Packet – pages 39a – 39b
Meeting Schedule » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Approval of 2025 Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Schedule
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Enclosed is the proposed 2025 Board of Commissioners’ Regular Meeting Schedule. All dates reflect the third Tuesday of the month.
2025 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS’ MEETING SCHEDULE
Regular Meetings are held at 5:00pm on the third Tuesday of each month
January 21st
February 18th
March 18th
April 15th
May 20th
June 17th
July 15th
August 19th
September 16th
October 21st
November 18th
December 16th
Update –
The proposed monthly meeting schedule was adopted as submitted.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
8. Discussion and Possible Action on Selection of Mayor Pro Tem – Town Clerk Finnell (Interim Town Manager Ferguson)
Agenda Packet – pages 40 – 41
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action on Selection of Mayor Pro Tem
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Per Section 30.05, Mayor Pro Tempore of the Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, the Board shall elect from one of its members a mayor pro tem. The normal term of office is one year, commencing with the December meeting.
If the Board chooses to elect a new mayor pro tem, you can vote by ballot or verbally, whichever is the Board’s preference. If the Board votes by ballot, please make sure to sign your ballot.
§30.05 MAYOR PRO TEMPORE.
(A) The BOC shall elect a Mayor Pro Tempore. The normal term of office of the Mayor Pro Tempore shall be one year, commencing at the first regular meeting in December; provide, however, that the member shall serve at the pleasure of the
(B) The Mayor Pro Tempore shall discharge the duties and exercise the powers and authority of Mayor in the absence, disability, disqualification of the Mayor and during a vacancy in the office of Mayor; provided his or her rights and duties as BOC shall remain unimpaired; except he or she shall receive the salary or expenses of Mayor when serving in that capacity. No additional oath of office shall be required of the Mayor Pro Tempore upon assuming the duties of the Mayor beyond that oath taken at the time of appointment to Mayor Pro
Update –
The Code of Ordinances reads that the Board shall elect a mayor pro tem from one of its members. Per the ordinance, the Board may choose to extend the current term of Mayor Pro Tem Myers or select another member to serve as the mayor pro tem. Commissioner Thomas made a motion to nominate Tom Myers for Mayor Pro Tem. Commissioner Myers was selected to serve as Mayor Pro Tem again next year.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
9. Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution 24-10, Resolution Approving Truist Signature Card – Town Clerk Finnell (Interim Town Manager Ferguson)
Agenda Packet – pages 42 – 43
Resolution 24-10 » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 24- I 0, Resolution Approving Truist Signature Card
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Historically, the official signatories for the Town’s Truist accounts are the mayor, mayor pro tern and staff. Resolution 24-10 updates the current signature card by designating Mayor Holden, Interim Town Manager Ferguson and Finance Officer McRainey as the official signatories. It will also designate the Board member that is voted to serve as mayor pro tern for 2025.
Update –
Housekeeping item update of signatories, adopted as submitted
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
10. Discussion and Possible Action on Revised Job Descriptions for Finance Department – Town Clerk Heather (Interim Town Manager Ferguson)
Agenda Packet – pages 44 – 48
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action on Revised Job Descriptions for Finance Department
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Our current Fiscal Operations Supervisor is retiring. Staff proposes removing the supervisory duties from the current position and realigning the duties to the Finance Officer. No changes to the salary ranges are recommended at this time.
Update –
The current Fiscal Operations Supervisor Margaret Lancaster is retiring. They revised the job descriptions for both the Fiscal Operations Supervisor and the Finance Officer. The change adds supervisory duties to the work responsibilities of our Finance Officer.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
“No changes to the salary ranges are recommended at this time.” Nor should there be a change to the salary range which is $78K to $119K or his salary of $86K. There is not even one (1) of the finance directors that make the top of the range $119K in the entire state. Daniel’s starting salary in 2020 was just $45,739. He now makes $85,965, that’s a salary raise of +$40,226 or a whopping +88% increase in just four (4) years. There are twenty-six (26) Finance Director’s in North Carolina with a town population below 2,500. The average NC finance director salary for that size community is $82K. So, his $86K salary is already 5% above the average NC finance directors salary. Sheesh!
11. Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution 24-11, Resolution Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule (2025 Recycling Fee) – Town Clerk Finnell (Interim Town Manager Ferguson)
Agenda Packet – pages 49 – 51
Resolution 24-11 » click here
ISSUE/ ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution 24-11, Resolution Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule (Recycling).
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
We have received the updated fees assessed by GFL Environmental for people who utilize the voluntary curbside recycling program.
The annual 2025 cost for people participating in the program will be $119.35 per bin. This is an increase from the current rate of $106.88. The fee schedule needs to be amended to reflect the new amount.
Staff recommends the Board approve Resolution 24-10 Resolution Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule, if you wish to continue the curbside recycling program.
Update –
The Board amended the fee schedule to reflect the increased rate, from $106.88 to $119.35, for the curbside recycling program. Motion was made to approve the resolution amending the fee schedule as submitted.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
The charges were $86.37 in 2022, just three years later they are now $119.35 a 38% increase which are considerably steeper than what inflation would dictate.
THB Newsletter (12/20/24)
2025 Recycling
GFL Environmental offers curbside recycling for Town properties that desire to participate in the service. The 2025 service cost is $119.35 annually paid in advance to the Town of Holden Beach. The service consists of a 96 gallon cart that is emptied every other week during the months of October – May and weekly during the months of June – September. You may apply in person at Town Hall or by clicking here to download the application in and mailing it in with your check payment. If you currently utilize the service, make sure to turn in your 2025 payment.
13. Discussion and Possible Action on Ordinance 24-19, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 24-11, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 24-25 (Amendment No. 4, Beach and Inlet Capital Reserve Fund Transfer) – Finance Officer McRainey (Interim Town Manager Ferguson)
Agenda Packet – pages 52 – 53
Ordinance 24-19 » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Transfer excess unassigned general fund balance over 70% to the Beach and Inlet Capital Reserve Fund.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The town’s fund balance policy sets target fund balance between 40%-70%.
FINANCE RECOMMENDATION:
Recommend transferring an amount less than the full amount taking into account a possible large stormwater project in the near future.
Update –
The original motion made was to transfer the unassigned General fund balance of $2,783,382 to the Beach and Inlet Capital Reserve Fund per our own fund balance policy. Our Finance Officer proposed to not transfer the entire balance at this time. If they put it in this fund they can’t use it for anything else, which is the point of moving it there. After some discussion they agreed to hold back $300,000 for currently unfunded expenses. The motion made was to transfer unassigned General fund balance of $2,483,382 to the Beach and Inlet Capital Reserve Fund
A decision was made – Approved (3-2)
Commissioners Smith and Dyer opposed the motion
13. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposal for Additional Areas of Concern for Stormwater from McGill Associates – Public Works Director Clemmons (Interim Town Manager Ferguson)
a. Ordinance 24-20, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 24-11, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 24-25 (Amendment No. 5)
Agenda Packet – pages 54 – 59
Ordinance 24-20 » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action on the requested proposal from McGill regarding additional areas of concern for stormwater.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
McGill completed a proposal for the board’s consideration after the BOC expressed interest in adding areas of concern to the approved stormwater master plan. If the board chooses to move forward a budget amendment would be needed.
ASSISTANT TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Receive proposal and consider award should BOC want to add additional areas of study to the plan.
The BOC asked that McGill be contacted regarding additional areas of concern for the stormwater master plan. The attached proposal involves survey work and analysis to add three streets at the east end of the island and canal streets. It projects a six-month deliverable following a notice to proceed at a price of $76,100. Michael Norton will be available by phone to answer any questions the board may have during this agenda item .
Previously reported – March 2024
Stormwater Project Partnership Agreement (PPA)
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
Previously reported – June 2024
Representatives from McGill Associates did a slide presentation which was not included in the agenda packet but is available with the link below. They reviewed their analysis for the six (6) areas of concern. They provided a probable construction range of cost estimate based on current construction costs with the overall cost total will be in excess of two (2) million dollars. Scenario A assumes 100% of the projected capital investment needs are funded by user fees generated by the stormwater utility. Based on the project cost of capital stormwater projects and on-going and planned maintenance for the stormwater system they recommend proceeding with implementation of Scenario A with an initial flat rate of $7.20/month for each parcel on the island. The plan is current and incorporated the additional asphalt from the Ocean Boulevard resurfacing and bike lane project in their analysis, so they don’t think it had a significant impact.
No decision was made – No action taken
The Ocean Boulevard resurfacing and bike lane project has eliminated some of the areas of concern and has created some new ones.
Previously reported – August 2024
The proposed resolution is a plan to forward and address our stormwater issues. It is simply a guideline, which we can refine, prioritize, and enables us to apply for funding. David stressed the approval of this plan will allow us to move forward strategically, and that they need to adopt the plan. It’s hard to ask for grants if you don’t have a plan. The motion was made to move forward with the plan as submitted. They stated that this is not a panacea, but just our first step to address stormwater issues.
Previously reported – October 2024
ISSUE/ ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on an amendment to the Stormwater Master Plan
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
At the August BOC meeting, a resolution was passed to adopt the Stormwater Master Plan. The Town is now proceeding to obtain grants and external funding to implement the plan. Once we have applied and been accepted for funding, we will likely be restricted to spending it only on the areas defined in the plan.
There are two additional areas on the island that have significant flooding issues: OBE to the east of the entrance to Dunescape, and the canal streets. We should consider adding these areas to the plan before we apply for any grants or funding that would restrict our scope to only the six identified areas.
Possible Action:
Obtain a quote from McGill and Associates to amend the plan to include these new areas.
The discussion was about adding other locations to the stormwater plan as part of grant application. They agreed to appended the existing stormwater plan to add two (2) projects. The first is OBE to the east of the entrance to Dunescape, and the second is the canal streets. Tom wanted them to consider adding these areas to the plan before we apply for any grants or funding. There was agreement on adding the locations, not so much about applying for funding before they are added. David said that he plans on getting it done as soon as they can, but they may not be able to include them in the grant application. The Board directed the staff to contact McGill Associates for a proposal for the additional locations.
A decision was made – Approved (4-1)
Commissioner Smith opposed the motion
Update –
The Board accepted the submitted proposal from McGill Associates to add additional areas of concern to the Stormwater Master Plan. Motion was made to move forward including approving the budget amendment.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
14. Discussion and Possible Action to Terminate the Agreement for Holden Beach Pier Design Between the Town and Bowman Murray Heminway Architects – Town Attorney Sydnee Moore (Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas)
Agenda Packet – page 60
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Motion/Discussion/Vote to Terminate the 18 April 2023 Agreement for Holden Beach Pier Design between Town of Holden Beach and Bowman Murray Hemingway Architects, PC for convenience and direct Town Attorney to send written notice informing Architect of BOC decision to terminate as Agreement requires.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
It is my understanding that the contract for Holden Beach Pier Design between the Town of Holden Beach and Bowman Murray Hemingway Architects, PC dated 18 April 2023 was never terminated by either side when project was suspended , and it is questionable as to whether the completed portion of the contract rises to “Substantial Completion” threshold needed to automatically terminate the Agreement (Section 9.8). Out of an abundance of caution to avoid future issues under GS 143-64.31 for RFQ respondents and the Town of HB, it is advised that the BOC tem1inate the contract with Bowman Murray Hemingway Architects, PC to allow a blank slate for the RFQ discussion and/or selection for actions potentially taken later in this meeting . Section 9.5 of the Agreement allows Owner (Town of HB) to terminate the agreement with at least seven (7) days’ written notice to the Architect for Owner’s convenience and without cause. This decision to terminate the 18 April 2023 Agreement will not preclude the Town of HB from selecting Bowman Murray Hemingway Architects, PC from the pool of pier RFQ’s to be discussed later in this meeting if the Board wishes to do so.
Update –
The contract with the Bowman Murray Hemingway Architects is still active. The Town needs to terminate the Bowman Murray Hemingway Architects contract before moving forward with the Pier Request for Qualifications, which is the next agenda item. We have already paid for the work that was completed on it. Motion was made to terminate the contract and have the town attorney to send written notice to the architects informing them of the Board’s decision.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
16. Receive Request for Qualifications for Pier and Direct Staff on Next Steps – Interim Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – page 61, plus separate packets
BMH Response » click here
HDR Response » click here
MidAtlantic Response » click here
Greene Response » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Receive RFQ’s for pier and direct staff on next steps.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) was issued with four responses received. The intent is for the BOC to receive proposals at the December meeting and direct staff on next steps and how the BOC would like to evaluate qualifications.
INTERIM TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Receive responses and direct staff on next steps.
Update –
The Town received four (4) responses to the RFQ. The request informed interested parties on what criteria they would use to make their selection. The proposals are for the development of preliminary designs and cost estimates for repair or replacement of the Town pier property. Commissioner Thomas made a motion to direct the staff to award the contract to HDR and move forward as appropriate. Apparently they were ready to move forward, and don’t want to delay this project anymore than it has been already.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Editor’s note –
A request for qualifications is a document that asks potential suppliers or vendors to detail their background and experience providing a specific good or service. In this case, the buyer is only concerned about the vendor’s skills and experience. Professionals responding will be selected solely based on their qualifications and not on price. Once a firm is selected the Town will negotiate a contract for the desired services. Therefore, the response is not a bid.
16. Discussion and Possible Action on Issuing a Request for Proposals for Executive Search Firm – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas
Agenda Packet – pages 62 – 74
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on issuing an RFP for executive search firm services.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
An executive search firm is needed to support the town in identifying and hiring a new town manager.
Typical services include:
- Conducting kick-off meeting(s) to launch the search
- Working with the BOC and key stakeholders to determine goals, objectives, and desired future state
- Creating a marketing brochure describing the Town and the Town Manager position
- Advertising and marketing the position
- Actively recruiting and soliciting candidates
- Pre-screening candidates to identify qualified individuals
- Conducting initial interviews
- Performing background checks and vetting candidates to create a recommended shortlist
- Presenting the shortlist to the BOC for consideration and determination of finalists
- Performing reference checks on finalists
- Facilitating finalist interviews with the BOC and key stakeholders
- Assisting in drafting and presenting an offer and contract to selected candidate
- Facilitating introduction and onboarding of the selected candidate
The NC League of Municipalities has provided an example RFP from the Town of Waxhaw that we can use as a template for our RFP.
Possible Action:
Direct town staff to 1) develop an RFP for the services listed above using the materials from the NCLM as a template; and 2) provide a copy of the RFP to the BOC ASAP. If the BOC doesn’t contact the Town Clerk with concerns by January 3rd, RFP will be issued.
Update –
The decision made was to engage an executive search firm to provide services to help us with the hiring process. The NC League of Municipalities has provided us a template to assist us to develop an RFP. The Board directed the town staff to develop a Request for Proposal as soon as possible.
A decision was made – Approved (3-2)
Commissioners Smith and Dyer opposed the motion
I don’t think we have to necessarily promote Christy and definitely don’t think that it should be a foregone conclusion. We need to search for the best qualified candidate. who meet the specific job requirements we have for our town manager position.
General Comments –
Town Hall Closed
Town Hall will be closed December 24th, 25th, 26th and January 1st in observance of the holidays.
BOC’s Meeting
The Board of Commissioners’ next Regular Meeting is scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month, January 21st
It’s not like they don’t have anything to work on …
The following eight (8) 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
- Accommodation/Occupancy Tax Compliance
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.
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Lost in the Sauce –
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Beach Mat Plan
Previously reported – December 2022
Timbo made a presentation that considers both regulations and policies that needs to be considered in order to develop a plan. Staff made recommendations where mats could be utilized. Let’s just say that it’s a work in progress for now.
Previously reported – September 2022
Request for staff opinion on moving forward with planning for dry sand placement of mats at select THB public accesses to enhance handicap access to the beach based on information in the CRC-22-17 document (provided as background). Request for staff opinion to allow residential use of mats for beach walkways, including consideration as a potential solution to debris concerns arising from construction of long wooden walkways over multiple dunes.
Memo from North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
Last year, the Commission amended the rules that established specific use standards for structural pedestrian accessways (dune crossovers) that allow for public access to the beach. You will recall that the use standards previously limited these accessways to elevated, piled-supported structures terminating on the beach near the seaward toe of the frontal dune. Due to numerous local governments expressing interest in using synthetic or wooden roll-out matting as a handicap-accessible alternative for beach access, the accessway rules were amended to allow the use of these types of mats for public beach access. However, the use these materials was limited to State, federal or local governments due to concerns expressed by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NC WRC) and the U.S . Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) about potential adverse impacts on sea turtle habitat resulting from their use waterward of the frontal dune.
Since the amendments went into effect, Staff has had further discussion regarding the use of beach matting for residential applications as an alternative to structural accessways. As you are aware, during storms, dune crossovers (including stairways) can account for a great deal of the debris that wind up scattered across beaches and in waterways. Staff believes that by limiting matting to the same general standards that apply to structural accessways (six feet wide and no farther waterward than six feet from the toe of the dune), public access and wildlife protection goals will be met while reducing debris on the state’s beach during storm events. Residential application of matting material would adhere to the same standards previously approved including installation at grade and prohibiting extension onto the public trust beach.
In addition, in recent years the Commission has approved three petitions for variances from local governments (Carolina Beach, Topsail Beach and Kure Beach) seeking to install beach mats on the dry sand beach (seaward of the frontal or primary dune and vegetation line) in support of enhanced handicap accessibility. The Division and Commission have supported both variance petitions, and in both cases, efforts were taken to minimize risks to sea turtles, including changes in siteing, size, and orientation of the proposed structures. However, following the Commission’s variance and issuance of a CAMA Minor Permit to the Town for installation of beach mats, the Town still assumes some liability for any “takes” of threatened or endangered species under the federal Endangered Species Act. For this reason, DCM has advised the Towns to consult directly with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to resolve this situation, potentially through the development of “Habitat Conservation Plans” or other formal approvals that can be issued by the USFWS for non-federal entities in accordance with the Endangered Species Act.
Staff are proposing a change to 07H.0308(c)(2)(C) to potentially allow beach mats on the dry sand beach without the need for a variance from the Commission, where they are sponsored by a local government for the purpose of enhanced handicap accessibility and are subject to review by the NC WRC and USFWS. The proposed amendments to 07K .0207 would also add residential use of matting material to the exemption language for beach accessways.
Mobi-Mat » click here
Coastal Resources Commission expands exemptions for beach mats
The NC Coastal Resources Commission approved new guidelines on Thursday that allows beach mats to be used in more ways. In a memo from the NC Department of Environmental Quality, staff says towns like Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Topsail Beach have petitioned to install the mats closer to the water. Additionally, staff says they’ve also had several requests from oceanfront homeowners to install the mats for private beach access instead of a typical wooden walkway. The commission approved an amendment at its meeting in Wilmington on Thursday allowing mats sponsored by local governments to be installed on dry sand without a variance from the commission. The amendment also allows the residential use of the matting for beach walkways.
The NC Coastal Resources Commission approved new guidelines that allows beach mats to be used in more ways. Public Comments speaker pointed out that accessibility is a need not a want. Discussion to allow dry sand placement of mats at some public beach accesses for handicap use and possibly for residential walkways too. Commissioner Kwiatkowski would like to see this done for next season. The motion made was to have staff make recommendation where mats can be utilized.
2023
Rules of Procedure
The Board is required to adopt some version of the Rules of Procedure each year.
Rules of Procedure 2024 » click here
Budget Season
They have not established the budget meeting schedule yet.
Budget Calendar
The Town Manager’s proposed budget is due by June 1st
Commissioners must adopt budget no later than June 30th for the next fiscal year
Adopting the annual budget is a primary responsibility of the Board.
Hurricane Season
For more information » click here.
Be prepared – have a plan!
This year’s Atlantic hurricane season is officially over
The season proved hyperactive, with five hurricanes hitting the United States.
Coastal residents can now take a collective deep breath — hurricane season is now technically over. By the books, Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. While surprises can happen, a hurricane has never hit the Lower 48 outside this window, according to records that date back to 1861. Five hurricanes slammed the United States. Four alone reached at least Florida. According to some estimates, damage exceeded $190 billion. More than 200 people died as a result of Helene, making it the deadliest mainland U.S. storm since Katrina — though thousands died in Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, when Maria hit in September 2017. The season has been a hyperactive one. That’s according to ACE, or Accumulated Cyclone Energy — a metric that estimates how much energy storms churn through and expend on strong winds. A typical hurricane season averages 122.5 ACE units. This season has featured 161.6 units — above the 159.6 unit threshold required for a season to be “hyperactive.” That’s in line with preseason forecasts, which pointed toward anomalously warm ocean waters and a burgeoning La Niña pattern. La Niñas, which begin as a cooling of water temperatures in the eastern tropical Pacific, tend to feature enhanced upward motion in the air over the Atlantic.
Read more » click here
Atlantic hurricane season races to finish within range of predicted number of named storms
2024 season came roaring back despite slowdown during typical peak period
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which officially ends on Nov. 30, showcased above-average activity, with a record-breaking ramp up following a peak-season lull. The Atlantic basin saw 18 named storms in 2024 (winds of 39 mph or greater). Eleven of those were hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater) and five intensified to major hurricanes (winds of 111 mph or greater). Five hurricanes made landfall in the continental U.S., with two storms making landfall as major hurricanes. The Atlantic seasonal activity fell within the predicted ranges for named storms and hurricanes issued by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center in the 2024 August Hurricane Season Outlook. An average season produces 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes. “As hurricanes and tropical cyclones continue to unleash deadly and destructive forces, it’s clear that NOAA’s critical science and services are needed more than ever by communities, decision makers and emergency planners,” said NOAA Administrator, Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “I could not be more proud of the contributions of our scientists, forecasters, surveyors, hurricane hunter pilots and their crews for the vital role they play in helping to safeguard lives and property.” Twelve named storms formed after the climatological peak of the season in early September. Seven hurricanes formed in the Atlantic since September 25 — the most on record for this period. “The impactful and deadly 2024 hurricane season started off intensely, then relaxed a bit before roaring back,” said Matthew Rosencrans, lead hurricane forecaster at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of NOAA’s National Weather Service. “Several possible factors contributed to the peak season lull in the Atlantic region. The particularly intense winds and rains over Western Africa created an environment that was less hospitable for storm development.”
Read more » click here
I respectfully submit My Xmas List
These are the items I would most like to see addressed this year.
. 1. Beach –
. a) Support LWF Inlet waterway maintenance projects, keeping inlet navigable
. b) Work together on beach protection issues with surrounding communities
. c) Increase Beach Strand Ordinance Compliance & Enforcement
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. 2. Parking –
. a) Develop plans for a promenade on Jordan Boulevard
. b) Utilize acquired properties for additional parking
. c) Prohibit rights-of-way parking
. 3. Trash Services –
. a) Offer a suite of services
. b) Charge a user fee for those that want the service
. c) Make policies both fair and consistent
. d) Town should address noncompliance issues
. 4. Budget Season –
. a) Start the budget process earlier
. b) Establish a monthly budget meeting schedule
Lou’s Views –
The views expressed here are simply my opinion based on the facts as I understand them. I have no hidden agenda, no ax to grind, or any political ambition. I’m simply attempting to keep the community informed on what actually is going on here. I just tell it like it is and that is why people read the newsletter. After all it is called “Lou’s Views”! I welcome updates, clarifications or a correction to any fact I have stated which have changed or was inadvertently stated incorrectly.
Website policy –
We have had a number of inquiries about our website policies. We do not have an official policy per se. In general, we do not accept paid ads, associates or links for our website. Approved Vendor List as well as Advertisement – not paid for is based on my personal experience as a homeowner and as a property manager here on Holden Beach. Associates are simply personal friends that have a local business. Links are to websites that provide information that are of public significance. We invite you to share with us anything that you feel our readers would want to know too. We hope you find our website useful.
Request –
We encourage you to pass along this newsletter to anyone else you think would enjoy it. We would like to include other members of the community and are asking for your help in making that happen. To be added to our distribution list send an e-mail to [email protected] or subscribe on our website https://lousviews.com.
Thank you for subscribing!
Disclaimer –
. 1) Not official correspondence from the Town
. 2) Not affiliated with Holden Beach Property Owners Association (HBPOA)
Wishing you and yours a Happy Holiday!
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Lou’s Views . HBPOIN
. • Gather and disseminate information
. • Identify the issues and determine how they affect you
. • Act as a watchdog
. • Grass roots monthly newsletter since 2008