Lou’s Views
“Unofficial” Minutes & Comments
BOC’s Regular Meeting 01/20/26
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here
Audio Recording » click here
1. Consent Agenda Items
a) Police Report
Agenda Packet – pages 9 – 14
Police Report » click here
b) Inspections Department Report
Agenda Packet – pages 15 – 17
Inspections Report » click here
c) Finance Department Report
Agenda Packet – pages 18 – 23
Finance Report » click here
d) Public Works Department Report
Agenda Packet – pages 24 – 25
Public Works Report » click here
Update –
You may have noticed that Bryan our Town Manager has changed the agenda. Apparently the staff will no longer make presentations or entertain any questions from the Board.
2. Discussion and Appointment of Commissioner to the Audit Committee – Town Clerk Finnell
Agenda Packet – pages 26 – 29
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Appointment of Commissioner to Serve on the Audit Committee
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Per §30.27 of the Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, a commissioner shall be appointed to the Audit Committee in January of each year. The Board can vote by ballot or verbally to fill the position. If ballots are used, please make sure to sign your name on the ballot.
Update –
They briefly discussed why a Commissioner serves on the Audit Committee, noting that this is not standard practice for other Boards or Committees. By consensus, they agreed to allow Commissioner Myers the current Board member to continue serving on the committee until the next meeting. The BOC’s requested that staff return with a revised Ordinance removing the requirement for a Commissioner to be a member of the Audit Committee.
No decision was made – No action taken
3. Discussion and Possible Action on Selecting an Engineering Firm for the Town’s Stormwater Project – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 30 – 46
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action on an engineering firm for the Town’s stormwater project.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Town issued an RFQ for engineering services for the current stormwater projects. The RFQ was sent to several engineering firms and we spoke to some of them over the last couple weeks. Staff recommends McGill for these services as their submission was thorough and they have a vital understanding of the project areas from completing the stormwater masterplan. Staff suggests that a contract be brought back for consideration as soon as possible.
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Accept qualifications of McGill and direct the Manager to secure a contract for consideration.
Update –
Staff recommends selecting McGill and authorizing them to secure a contract for their consideration. This is a $2.9 million dollar project funded by the USACE, with 75% reimbursement available if we proceed according to the approved plans. Although there were some objections made during the Public Comments to the proposed plan, any changes at this stage could jeopardize the funding. The project is expected to be completed within nineteen (19) months.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
4. Discussion and Possible Action to Choose a Stage Design for Block Q – Town Manager Chadwick & Inspections Director Evans
Agenda Packet – pages 47 – 51
Stage Design Drawings » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action to Choose a Stage Design for Block Q.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Staff has worked with Architect David Wood for 2 stage designs for Block Q. Staff recommends choosing one of the designs. For the next phase, staff will produce a request for proposals to construct the facility.
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Choose one of the designs presented.
Previously reported – December 2025
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action on stage and RFQ.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Staff promised to bring back two items, one being a recommendation on how to move forward with the stage and the other being the RFQ for the master plan of the Jordan Boulevard/Block Q area.
. a) With board approval, staff will move forward with seeking a design and drafting specifications to attempt to complete construction this budget year
. b) The original RFQ presented in October is also attached for your consideration
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Recommend board approve a path forward to complete these projects.
Previously reported – November 2025
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
The BOC reached a stalemate at the last meeting regarding the RFQ and a vote for moving forward. The staff offered to bring back a revised RFQ and path for moving forward to a stage for this budget year. After much discussion, the staff decided that it is more prudent to wait until the new board is seated to bring something forward so the board does not inherit a project and can discuss their thoughts and ideas on the topic.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
This action item is to update the board on work that was completed on this and how staff reached the above decision.
The staff decided that it would be prudent to wait until the new board is seated to discuss how to proceed.
The Board approved having the staff move forward with seeking a design and drafting specifications for a stage in the Block Q area. His intent is to present plans to the Board with more than one recommendation for the stage area. Staff will also send out a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a comprehensive plan for the Block Q/Jordan Boulevard area.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Previously reported – October 2025
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
At the September BOC meeting, the board directed staff to bring back an RFQ for a master plan for Block Q, Jordan Boulevard, the bridge area and the site of the former pavilion.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The purpose of the RFQ is to solicit professional design firms that can bring their expertise regarding all the property available. The following document is attached for your consideration and further direction.
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Recommend approval to distribute RFQ for a master plan as prepared by staff.
Editor’s note –
A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) 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.
Christy presented the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) document a comprehensive design plan for Block Q, Jordan Boulevard, the bridge area, and the site of the former pavilion for their consideration. Commissioner Paarfus was not ready to support this document as written. The vote to approve the RFQ failed. Mayor Holden attempted to do an end run by proposing that they bring back the previous plans so that they can move forward with a concert venue. After considerable discussion that mostly revolved around protocols the Town Manager intervened. The staff will incorporate comments from the commissioners regarding the RFQ. They will also look at moving forward with the original concert venue plan separately as another option. Staff will have something prepared for them by the next regular BOC’s meeting.
Previously reported – September 2025
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action to direct staff to develop a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for technical services to develop a comprehensive plan for the Jordan Blvd, Block Q, bridge area and former pavilion properties.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
There have been several proposals for the development of Block Q with amenities such as a band stand/pavilion, pickle ball courts, boat parking and vehicle parking. However, a comprehensive plan to develop not only block Q but the surrounding parcels (Jordan Blvd, former pavilion site, bridge area) is needed to make the most efficient use of the available properties to provide these amenities. Subsequent construction of these amenities could then be accomplished in phases according to priorities and budget availability. The intent is to allow a professional design firm to bring their expertise and creativity to bear in developing the master plan, considering all the property available. The BOC should provide some initial guide lines for the RFQ but shall not constrain the firm to those guidelines in developing the master plans.
Possible motion:
Instruct staff to develop an RFQ for a comprehensive design for Block Q, Jordan Blvd, bridge area, and the site of the former pavilion to be reviewed by the BOC.
They want to develop a comprehensive plan not only for block Q but also the surrounding parcels. The Board is trying to approach the development by keeping the end in mind. The plan is to only provide the vendor with guidelines of what they would like to see there. The motion was made to instruct staff to develop an RFQ for a comprehensive design for Block Q, Jordan Blvd, bridge area, and the site of the former pavilion to be reviewed by the BOC.
Update –
Timbo did a nice job explaining the process and the rationale that got us to this point. The presentation of two (2) different stage design options was somewhat misleading since the only distinction was the inclusion of the cupola. The proposed building structure measures 40 x 40 feet, and the dance floor adds another 40 x 40 feet, making it slightly larger than what was previously available at the Pavilion. A motion was made to approve Elevation A and they instructed the staff to proceed with the next step, which is to issue a request for proposal (RFP) for the project.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Editor’s Note –
A request for proposal (RFP) is a solicitation, often made through a bidding process, by an agency or company interested in procurement of a commodity, service or valuable asset, to potential suppliers to submit business proposals.
The previous Board aimed to develop a comprehensive plan not only for Block Q but also for the surrounding parcels. Their approach was to keep the long-term vision in mind throughout the development process. The intention was to create an integrated design encompassing Block Q, Jordan Blvd, the bridge area, and the former pavilion site, to be reviewed by the BOC’s. There was agreement on the need for a concert stage area. However, the decision to pursue an oversized, palatial concert stage exceeded what was actually necessary. Once again, the focus shifted toward wants rather than needs. By moving forward with constructing such a large concert stage, they have significantly limited our flexibility in executing a truly comprehensive plan.
Know the difference between wants and needs?
One of the most basic concepts of economics is want vs. need.
A need is something you have to have.
It’s something you can’t do without.
A want is something you would like to have.
It’s not absolutely necessary, but it would be a good thing to have
5. Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 26-01, Resolution Recognizing the 100th Anniversary of the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 52 – 54
Resolution 26-01 » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action on a resolution commemorating the 100th anniversary of the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA).
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Town works in collaboration with ASBPA and is a member of its Coastal Advocacy Network. The attached resolution presents the commissioners with the opportunity to formally celebrate this milestone with the organization. We look forward to the many ASBPA events planned surrounding the anniversary, which will also draw national attention to the importance of the coast.
American Shore and Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA)
Update –
We are members of the Coastal Advocacy Network which works with American Shore and Beach Preservation Association. The motion was approved as submitted.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
6. Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 26-02, Resolution Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule (2026 Recycling Fee) – Town Clerk Finnell
Agenda Packet – pages 55 – 57
Resolution 26-02 » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action on Resolution 26-02, 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 2026 cost for people participating in the program will be $122.93 per bin. The fee schedule needs to be amended to reflect the new amount.
Staff recommends the Board approve Resolution 26-02, Resolution Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule, if you wish to continue the curbside recycling program.
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Recommend approval of the resolution to update the recycling fee.
Previously reported – December 2025
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action on Fifth Amendment to Solid Waste and Recyclables Collection, Transportation and Disposal Agreement between the Town and GFL Environmental
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
GFL has provided the Town with a proposed amendment to the Solid Waste and Recyclables Collection, Transportation and Disposal Agreement. The current agreement’s term is through December 31, 2025. The amendment would extend the initial term by two years, with the end date being December 31, 2027. Pursuant to the terms of our contract, current rates would be adjusted by 3%.
The term of the contract was extended by two (2) years and rates will be increased by three (3) percent. Motion was made to approve amendment to the current GFL contract. The Board will need to Amend the Fee Schedule at the next scheduled meeting.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Update –
Last month, the Board approved an increase to the GFL rate, which required an amendment to the fee schedule. The Board proceeded to vote, without any discussion, to update the fee schedule at an annual cost of $122.93 per bin for participants in the program.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
THB Newsletter (01/21/26)
2026 Recycling
GFL Environmental offers curbside recycling for Town properties that desire to participate in the service. The 2026 service cost is $122.93 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 and mailing it in with your check payment. If you currently utilize the service, make sure to turn in your 2026 payment.
Waste Industries offers curbside recycling to Town properties interested in participating in the service. This convenient service encourages environmental responsibility among residents. It’s currently the only Town service that requires a user fee. Charging for recycling may seem counterintuitive if the goal is to promote greater participation. So, why does the Town cover the cost of yard debris collection but not recycling services?
7. Discussion and Possible Action to Change Paid Parking Enforcement Dates – Mayor Holden
Agenda Packet – pages 58
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action to Change Paid Parking Enforcement Dates
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Several commissioners have requested to discuss the dates paid parking is enforced within Town limits.
Update –
Alan included this item on the agenda so that the Board could review the parking program and assess whether any relief for the public might be possible. He emphasized that they need to gather information before making any decisions. The topic will be revisited at next month’s meeting.
No decision was made – No action taken
Editor’s note –
Holden Beach
Gross revenue: $1,188,392
Total parked vehicles: 66,659
As of Oct. 8, 2025, the town of Holden Beach has generated a total net revenue of $803,148 from its paid parking program, Varner said on Oct. 21. Varner said he expects the town to make $880,000 by the end of the year. This will be a small bump from the nearly $830,000 made in 2024, per Varner’s presentation.
The town of Holden Beach first implemented paid parking in 2022. Originally, the town enacted seasonal paid parking from April 1 to Oct. 31 with rates of $3 per hour, $15 per day, $60 per week, or $125 per year. In 2023 and 2024, the town increased parking rates to $5 per hour, $20 per day, $80 per week and $175 for a single vehicle annual pass and transitioned to year-round paid parking.
OTTO Connect counted a total of 66,659 vehicles parked on the island so far this year, a decrease of nearly 81,000 vehicles counted in 2024. Over 26,000 vehicles were counted in parking spaces in June and July alone.
Brunswick County paid parking programs in 2025
Holden Beach
Dates: Year-round
Oak Island
Dates: April 1st to September 30th
Ocean Isle Beach
Dates: April 1st to October 31st
Sunset Beach
Dates: April 1st to October 31st
.
This is what they consider important and urgent? Yet, filling the Board vacancy and revising the Rules & Procedures apparently are not priorities. At the very least, property owners deserve access to the monthly revenue figures. Why was this information not made available at the meeting? Both costs and revenues play a critical role in determining the Town’s financial position. Recently, expenses have surged with the purchase of new playground equipment (around $200,000) and planned construction of a concert stage (over $400,000), placing additional strain on the Town’s finances. Despite these rising costs, there now seems to be a proposal to reduce a key revenue stream as well. This strategy is difficult to justify, as it remains unclear how such actions would benefit island property owners. Their decisions appear to serve the interests of mainland residents rather than those who own property locally.
8. Town Manager Report – Town Manager Chadwick
Agenda Packet – page 59
Town Manager Report » click here
Bryan reviewed the Town Manager Report
Block Q Restrooms & Parking
In process.
Previously reported – November 2025
Grant extension was applied for with the state and timeline has been extended
Ocean Boulevard Stormwater
Considering RFQ’s for engineering services on the January agenda
Previously reported – December 2025
Staff met with the Corps for an initial meeting. Staff is working with them on next steps and to finalize the timeline.
Previously reported – June 2025
The Town was awarded $2.2M in Environmental Infrastructure Disaster Relief Funding for stormwater projects. To get started USACE requires the execution of the Project Partnership Agreement. The Town portion of the 2.2 million dollar project is 25%, which would cost us $550,000. The motion was made to approve the project partnership agreement with the USACE and have the town staff execute the paperwork.
Block Q Master Plan RFQ
Proposals due back January 30th by noon
Recommendation for a firm planned for the February agenda
Block Q Stage Area
BOC to consider two designs at the January meeting
Pier Site
Future Scope of Work discussion TBD in the future
THB Newsletter (04/15/25)
Work has been completed and the pier parking lot and walkways are now open.
Please be mindful not to stand or sit under the pier structure.
NC Resilient Coastal Communities Program
Information has been sent to organizations for dissemination of possible projects for community engagement
Previously reported – December 2025
The working group has been designated by Tim and the Planning staff.
Previously reported – November 2025
Engineer contacted Tim with next steps, which includes forming a working group
Phase 1 of the program is being implemented
They need to select three (3) members of the community as team members
Previously reported – August 2025
The Town was selected to receive a technical assistance award through the program
ESP Associates has been assigned as our engineer firm and will receive $70,000
Staff will have an orientation session regarding our phase of the program on 09/09Â
Previously reported – April 2025
N.C. Resilient Coastal Communities Program » click here
North Carolina Division of Coastal Management is accepting applications from eligible communities for no-cost technical assistance to complete Phases I and 2 of the Resilient Coastal Communities Program. The motion was made to complete an application to Resilient Coastal Communities Program by the deadline of April 25th, if it is at all possible.
Southeastern Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Planning and Inspections have been working with Brunswick and Other Counties in the region to update the hazard mitigation plan. Commissioners will be presented a resolution to adopt the updated plan in the coming months.
Previously reported – February 2021
Southeastern NC Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
This is an update to our regional Hazard Mitigation plan. This plan allows the town to be part of the required regional plan while maintaining autonomy within.
Staff has been involved with the process since the beginning of the update in July 2019. Some portions of the updates are mandatory on an associated regional basis. The only significant changes are those associated with our commitment to a stricter NFIP and the resiliency improvements to the town’s sewer lift station upfits.
FEMA requires that hazard mitigation plans be updated every five years to remain eligible for federal mitigation and public assistance funding. To prepare the 2021 Southeastern NC Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, ESP Associates. Inc. was hired by North Carolina Emergency Management to provide professional mitigation planning services for the plan update. Per the contractual scope of work, the consultant team followed the mitigation planning process recommended by FEMA (Publication Series 386 and Local Mitigation Plan Review Guide) and recommendations provided by North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM) mitigation planning staff. Additionally, for the update, FEMA Community Rating System (CRS) and Community Wildfire Protection Plan requirements were integrated into the plan update.
FEMA definition of Hazard Mitigation – Any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from hazards.
Halstead Park
Scope of work that was previously advertised needs to be changed to include new piles
Pier is closed due to safety until further notice as previously advertised
Employee Updates
Megan Hegadore will be leaving to pursue flight school
Chief Dixon will be leaving at the end of February to take the place of the retiring chief in Shallotte
HBPD Chief Dixon hired as Shallotte PD chief
The town of Shallotte last week announced it has hired current Holden Beach Police Chief Jeremy Dixon to replace outgoing Shallotte Police Chief Adam Stanley, who will retire in February. During the Jan. 6 Shallotte Board of Aldermen meeting, Chief Stanley announced that Chief Dixon had been selected to take his place. “My last day will be Feb. 2 — after 30 years of service, I’m retiring,” Stanley said. “The town has selected Chief Jeremy Dixon [as the new police chief]. He’s currently the chief of Holden Beach [Police Department] and he is a resident of Shallotte, who has been here 20-some years. He will be taking my place in March, and we are glad to have him.” The town of Shallotte in November announced Stanley would be retiring from his role as police chief, which he has held since 2022. The town in December conducted interviews for the police chief position prior to announcing Dixon’s hiring last week. The town of Holden Beach, on Wednesday, Jan. 7, announced it is accepting applications for the Holden Beach Police Chief position. Applications are due to the town by Feb. 2, the announcement noted. The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners is expected to discuss the vacancy during its Jan. 20 meeting.
Read more » click here
Strategic Planning
The Board decided to do a Strategic Planning activity in-house rather than travel at a cost of about $6,000.
Budget
Bryan asked the BOC’s to submit five (5) goals for the upcoming year
The first budget meeting will cover expenses and revenue
In Case You Missed It
Dog Reminders
Please remember that any time your dog is off your premise, they must be on a leash, cord or chain at all times. Also, dog owners must remove dog waste immediately after it is deposited by the dog when on public property or any private property, including vacant lots, without the permission of the private property owner. Dog waste stations are conveniently located throughout the island.
Emergency Operations Center
The EOC building is being used by Tri-Beach Fire Department while they renovate their fire station on Sabbath Home
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization
Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On November 12, 2025, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to January 30, 2026.
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
Town of Holden Beach officially established on February 14, 1969
Celebrating our 57th Anniversary!
Town Birthday Celebration
The Town of Holden Beach will hold its annual birthday celebration on Friday, February 13th at noon. Lunch will be served.
Please contact Christy at christy.ferguson@hbtownhall.com to register.
9. Closed Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3), Consult with Attorney and North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(6), Personnel – Town Manager
No decision was made – No action taken
We don’t need no stinking Executive Secretary!
The agenda did not include the following:
Conflict of Interest
-
- Eliminated in the recently adopted Rules of Procedure
- It was put in so they could police themselves
° Consider the pier properties purchase as why we should have it
Rules of Procedures
-
- Why are there no rules of procedure changes/revisions on the agenda?
- Quorum definition now is not in compliance with the Town’s Code of Ordinances°
° Huge brouhaha and lawsuit over this last year, where is Lisa Ragland now?
Vacancies
-
- Why isn’t replacing Commissioner Thomas on the agenda?
- Coates’ Canons NC Local Government Law interprets shall be filled as mandatory
Paid Parking –
-
- Why is there no back up material for discussion
° What are the monthly revenue figures?
- Why is there no back up material for discussion
Budget Calendar
-
- They have not established the budget meeting schedule yet
Board Objectives
-
- They have not established an objectives meeting yet
Vacancies
Letter of Resignation
To the Residents of Holden Beach and the Board of Commissioners:
I hereby submit my resignation as Commissioner of Holden Beach, effective January 1, 2026.
When I joined this Board, I did so with a commitment to integrity and fiscal responsibility. Regrettably, the actions taken during the first meeting of the new Board have made it clear that I can no longer serve in good conscience.
During his campaign, Keith Smith promised to restore “trust, transparency, and teamwork.” Unfortunately, these principles were disregarded at the outset. Revisions to the Rules of Procedure were neither shared with the public nor discussed openly before Commissioners Smith, Pate, and Dyer voted to revert to an outdated version. This outdated version is not only less transparent but also fails to account for modern laws regarding remote participation and directly violates Ordinance 30.15 (A) [Ord. 07-04, passed 5-22-07].
Furthermore, the behavior witnessed at this meeting is a continuation of the hostile working environment fostered by Mayor Holden and Commissioners Rick Smith and Page Dyer over the past two years. This atmosphere of antagonism has consistently undermined the Board’s ability to engage in civil, productive debate. It is deeply troubling to witness the very “backroom” decision-making and predetermined outcomes that were so heavily criticized now being used as primary tools of governance. By “calling the question” to prematurely end deliberation, the new majority has signaled an interest in an agenda of retaliation rather than collaboration.
I have grave concerns regarding the Board’s insistence on “repairing” a pier that both the Town inspector and a reputable engineering firm have deemed a total loss. Disregarding these professional evaluations to pursue a project that is not cost-effective places an undue financial burden on our taxpayers. Furthermore, based on recent public statements, it is apparent that certain members of the Board intend to prioritize the interests of non-residents over the taxpayers of Holden Beach. Any attempt to bypass the November 2025 referendum by leveraging revenue streams like parking fees or occupancy taxes would be disingenuous, unethical, and a violation of the public trust.
I am proud to have prioritized the Sand Fund and eliminated wasteful spending during my tenure. I leave the Town in a significantly stronger financial position than when I began my service. Given the current trajectory, I cannot in good conscience participate in proceedings that I believe undermine the integrity of our local government.
It has been a profound honor to serve the people of Holden Beach, and I remain deeply committed to the future success and well-being of our beautiful community.
Respectfully,
Tracey Thomas Commissioner, Town of Holden Beach
Brunswick town commissioner resigns amid concerns for Board’s future
After two years of tension-filled meetings, one Brunswick County beach town board is left with an empty chair after an elected official resigned. A Holden Beach commissioner has resigned following the Board’s first meeting with newly elected officials. In Tracey Thomas’ resignation letter, she cites concerns with the Board’s new members. During a Holden Beach Board of Commissioners meeting on Dec. 16, the board welcomed new members Keith Smith and Sylvia Pate. The two were elected to fill the expired seats of former commissioners Rick Smith and Rick Paarfus, both who did not file for re-election in 2025. The municipal board has been a focal point of tension and disagreement since December 2023, when Thomas, Tom Myers and Paarfus were sworn in after winning the November 2023 municipal election. Thomas over the past two years strongly supported several changes to capital projects, such as the town’s pier, and was the driver behind various changes and additions to the board’s rules and procedure in December 2023 and January 2024. Many of Thomas’ actions sparked frustration among residents, including commissioner Page Dyer and former commissioner Smith. During the December 2025 meeting, the board voted to reverse Thomas’ edits of the rules and procedures that were put into place January 2024, going back to the town’s previous version. The vote was 3-2 with Myers and Thomas opposing. Just days after the meeting, Thomas announced her resignation from the board via email, which was effective Jan. 1. Her seat is not set to expire for another two years. “When I joined this board, I did so with a commitment to integrity and fiscal responsibility,” Thomas said in the email. “Regrettably, the actions taken during the first meeting of the new board have made it clear that I can no longer serve in good conscience.”
Why did Thomas resign?
In her resignation email, Thomas said potential future attempts to bypass the failed bond referendum by using different town revenue streams, such as parking fees or occupancy taxes, to pay for the pier demolition and rebuild would be “disingenuous, unethical, and a violation of the public trust.” “Given the current trajectory, I cannot in good conscience participate in proceedings that I believe undermine the integrity of our local government,” Thomas said in her email. Thomas further stated the behavior during the Dec. 16 meeting was a “continuation of a hostile working environment” that undermined the board’s ability to participate in “civil, productive” debates. “I was surprised to hear of her resignation and wish her the best moving forward,” Dyer said. “It’s unfortunate she felt like she could not finish her term.” Though Smith did not respond to the StarNews’ request for comment by Jan. 7, the mayor mirrored Dyer’s response. “I and the people of Holden Beach wish her well and thank her for her service,” Holden told the StarNews. In January, the Board of Commissioners is expected to discuss the town’s next steps to fill Thomas’ position, Town Manager Bryan Chadwick told the StarNews.
What are some notable actions Thomas has taken during her tenure?
Thomas was one of three commissioners who voted to award engineering firm HDR Engineering, Inc., of the Carolinas an engineering services contract for the pier structure. When some board members wished to repair the town’s historic pier, Thomas supported demolishing the pier after the town inspector and engineering firm’s shared information about costly repairs needed to fix the aged structure. “Disregarding these professional evaluations to pursue a project that is not cost-effective places an undue financial burden on our taxpayers,” Thomas said. Thomas was also one of three commissioners who voted to terminate former town manager David Hewett, who had been with the town since 2008, in November 2024. After several months without a permanent town manager, the town hired Chadwick.
Read more » click here
HB commissioner resigns, cites hostile work environment, issues with new board
Holden Beach Commissioner Tracey Thomas has resigned from the board of commissioners. In an email sent to town leaders on December 19, Thomas wrote, “When I joined this Board, I did so with a commitment to integrity and fiscal responsibility. Regrettably, the actions taken during the first meeting of the new Board have made it clear that I can no longer serve in good conscience.” She criticized the revision of the outdated rules of procedure, calling them less transparent and a violation of town ordinances. At the meeting, Thomas told other board members she wanted to see changes to the board’s rules and procedures in advance so they could provide feedback. “I’d like to see what changes you have so I have an opportunity to absorb that and then have comments on that before we do it in this type of meeting,” Thomas said. “And that way we can move more efficiently in January.” In an exchange with Commissioner Keith Smith, Thomas said that “everyone was complaining” that the board had only three days to review the changes and that Smith was trying to implement the changes immediately. “When we brought our copy in, everyone was complaining that they only had three days to look at what we were suggesting as changes, and now you’re saying you want to do it immediately and we don’t even know what changes you want,” Thomas told Smith. “So that doesn’t seem like you’re giving us any opportunity to review what changes you want and then discuss in public in January.” Thomas also alleged that a continued hostile work environment and “backroom” decision-making contributed to her decision to resign. WECT reached out to the town for a statement on the allegations listed in the resignation letter. Her resignation letter also raised concerns about the board’s plan to repair the Holden Beach pier. Voters in Holden Beach rejected a $7.3 million bond referendum to replace the existing pier. Her resignation was effective Jan. 1, 2026. Commissioners will have to appoint someone to serve the last two years of her term until the next election.
Read more » click here
Process for Filling Vacant Commissioner Position
§30.11 TERMS OF OFFICE; FILLING OF VACANCIES.
(A) Commissioner shall be two years, both of which begin on the day of first regular meeting in December following their election, except in case either is elected to serve an unexpired term, in which case the newly elected officers shall qualify and commence serving immediately upon the declaration of the result of the election by the Town BOC.
(B) Vacancies shall be filled as provided for in North Carolina General Statute § 160A-63
§160A‑63. Vacancies.
A vacancy that occurs in an elective office of a city shall be filled by appointment of the city council. If the term of the office expires immediately following the next regular city election, or if the next regular city election will be held within 90 days after the vacancy occurs, the person appointed to fill the vacancy shall serve the remainder of the unexpired term. Otherwise, a successor shall be elected at the next regularly scheduled city election that is held more than 90 days after the vacancy occurs, and the person appointed to fill the vacancy shall serve only until the elected successor takes office. The elected successor shall then serve the remainder of the unexpired term.
Coates’ Canons NC Local Government Law
G.S. 160A- 63says: “A vacancy that occurs in an elective office of a city shall be filled by appointment of the city council.” Does the “shall” in this sentence mean that they are required to fill the vacancy, or does it mean that if it is to be filled, the council is the body to fill it? There appears to be no case interpreting this provision, so it could be read either way. I think the safest and most appropriate reading is that the council must fill the vacancy.
The statute does not set a time frame within which this must be done. In contrast, the statute directing county commissioners to fill vacancies clearly requires them to do it and provides for the clerk of superior court to do it if the commissioners fail to within 60 days after the vacancy occurs. See, G.S. 153A-27. It could be argued that the difference suggests a legislative intent to allow cities an indefinite amount of time to fill the vacancy, but it’s hard to square that with the statute’s provision that city councils “shall” fill a vacancy. If there is no time within which the appointment must be made, in effect, they never have to make it. If the legislature intended this result, it seems that the statute would say they “may” fill the vacancy.
City council members sometimes suggest that they would prefer to leave it to the electorate to choose a new council member – essentially making a decision not to fill the vacancy before the next election. While this may reflect a genuine desire to avoid displacing the public’s opportunity to choose a council member, it opens the process up to manipulation. For example, in the case of an odd-numbered board operating with one less member, a decision not to fill the vacancy increases the role of the mayor in breaking ties. To avoid this, and to provide citizens with the benefit of deliberation and action by the full complement of members called for in the charter, the vacancy should be filled as soon as reasonably possible.
For more information » click here
Filling a Vacancy on the Town Council
How to Fill a Vacancy on an Elected Board
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Regrettably, we now have an open seat on the Board. The Board needs to fill the vacant seat sooner rather than later since we have just begun the budget process. Coates’ Canons NC Local Government Law interprets shall be filled as mandatory therefore the Board must fill the vacancy. The vacancy should be filled as soon as possible, this is not optional. When Woody resigned they decided that although the statute states that the position is to be filled by appointment by the Board, they decided that they would consider anybody in the Town that wants to be a Commissioner. That Board agreed to request that anybody interested should submit their qualifications. I thought that was the right approach then and still do now.
Rules of Procedure
Agenda Packet
DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE DIRECTION ON RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Town Clerk Finnell explained she provided the Board with a couple of versions of the rules. Attachment 1 is the current version, Attachment 2 is the previous version and Attachment 3 is the standard School of Government version.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Dyer to utilize Attachment 2. No second was made.
Commissioner Thomas suggested the Board take the current version and mark it up for the next meeting for discussion.
Motion by Commissioner Smith that we look at the current version, but we suggest changes tonight and implement them in January.
Commissioner Thomas would like the changes to be brought back in January and then adopt them in January. Commissioner Myers agreed it would be good to see the proposed changes before taking action. Commissioner Smith would like to revisit the power of the mayor to be part of quorum, which would also have to be addressed in the ordinance, and his duties. He also would like to look at the rule requiring two Board members to sponsor an item to be added to the agenda. Commissioner Dyer would like to look at Attachment 2 since those items are already addressed in that version. Commissioner Thomas said she believes there are items that are critical in the current version, like the cover sheet and executive session rules. She said the quorum is directly from the ordinance. She said the executive secretary can wait until January. The Board discussed how to move forward.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Dyer to accept Attachment 2 and proceed with that and any changes we can bring to the next meeting; second by Commissioner Smith.
Commissioner Pate asked about the quorum definition since Attachment 2 matches the state statute, not the Town ordinance. Town Clerk Finnell explained if Attachment 2 is adopted, the quorum would need to be changed to match the Town’s Code of Ordinances. Commissioner Myers said there are good additions in Attachment 1, like the quorum and the cover sheet and the conflict-of-interest. Commissioner Smith asked if the Board could take Mayor Pro Tern Dyer’s motion and add some of these items in. Town Clerk Finnell replied if the Board would like to take one of the versions and make changes to it, they can do that. They could also adopt Attachment 2 now, fix the quorum and then make changes in the future. They are the Board’s rules and can be changed however they choose. Using a cover sheet for agenda items was discussed. Commissioner Thomas would like to start with the current version and make changes. How to proceed was discussed.
Previously reported – December 2025
Rules of Procedure » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Direction on Rules of Procedure
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Board of Commissioners is required to adopt rules of procedure. The current version the Board is using is included for your review (Attachment 1). I have also included the previous version the Board has utilized (Attachment 2) and the standard version from the School of Government (Attachment 3).
The Board may adopt a version of these rules as written or make amendments to them.
The Board is required to adopt some version of the Rules of Procedure each year. The Rules of Procedure were substantially revised in 2020 and again in 2022. The Board were presented with three options; see Rules of Procedure link above. The recommendation was to review the materials, markup the current version and have proposed changes presented at the January meeting. Instead they chose to adopt attachment #2 which is the version used prior to the 2022 changes. The Board may amend the rules at a future meeting if they determine it is necessary.
Summary
Rules of Procedure / 2024 represents a heavily customized and more restrictive version that:
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- Significantly limits the mayor’s voting and participatory powers
- Creates the new Executive Secretary role
- Establishes much more detailed public participation procedures
- Requires extensive documentation and transparency measures
- Imposes stricter procedural requirements throughout
- Tailored to address specific governance concerns or past issues in Holden Beach.
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For those following from home, after considerable outrage regarding the previous Board’s lack of attention to minority perspectives, the new Board proceeded to implement this decision with little regard for those concerns. There was absolutely no reason to force this vote tonight other than to be vindictive.
Hypocrisy – when someone pretends to have virtues, beliefs, or feelings they don’t actually have, often by saying one thing and doing the opposite.
Same As It Ever Was
Holden Beach commissioners revert board rules of procedure
The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners voted 3-2 Dec. 16 to adopt its rules of procedure following a tense discussion over what version it will use moving forward. The commissioners debated three options during the meeting: continuing to use the current rules of procedure, reverting to the version used by the previous board before January 2023 or adopting the standard template from the UNC School of Government. Mayor Pro Tem Page Dyer made a motion to adopt the version used by the prior board, referred to as “attachment two,” with the intent of revisiting the topic to make changes during the next meeting in January. The motion passed by a 3-2 vote with support from Commissioners Keith Smith and Sylvia Pate. Commissioners Tracey Thomas and Tom Myers voted against the motion to adopt attachment two. Both Thomas and Myers had a role in drafting and adopting the version that the board had been using until Dec. 16, referred to as attachment one, which had been amended in January 2023. “I have not had a chance to go through attachment two in detail,” Myers said, “but it seems it eliminates the cover sheet on the agenda topics. … There are some things that are out, that I think were good additions that should stay in there.” Thomas urged the board to instead start with attachment one and mark it up for review. She said she thought there were parts of that version that are critical to the board, such as the agenda topic cover sheets. “I would just like to make a suggestion that we take [attachment one] and mark it up for the next meeting,” Thomas said, “so that we can all see what and discuss line by line, what changes people would like to see in it.” The changes that Thomas and Myers made in 2023 included the creation of an executive secretary position, amended closed session procedures, adding an “agenda topic cover sheet” and more. The board elected Thomas as the executive secretary in January 2023, which gave her the power to create the agendas, assemble the meeting packets and authorize delivery and publication of the agendas, The Brunswick Beacon previously reported. Another key difference between the two versions was the definition of a quorum. Attachment two defined a quorum as the majority of the board plus the mayor, while attachment one allowed for a quorum to consist of three commissioners without the mayor. Commissioner Smith said he wanted to revisit the mayor’s authority, however he noted that changes related to quorum and the mayor’s voting power would require ordinance amendments. The board does not have the power to make ordinance amendments on a whim without holding public hearings. “I would like to revisit as a board,” Smith said, “the power of the mayor to be a part of quorum, … his ability to vote, his ability to lead the meeting, his ability to have a say in how the agenda is put together.” Smith also criticized a provision in attachment one that required two commissioners to sponsor an agenda item before it can be placed on the agenda, arguing that it creates unnecessary barriers for residents. “We are five people among 900 people, approximately, that vote,” Smith said, “If someone has to get a hold of two or more commissioners at the last minute, I think that puts an undue burden on a citizen.” Dyer said the concerns raised by Smith were addressed in attachment two and argued that adopting that version would give the board a clearer starting point before making additional changes during its next meeting. Before the board adopted attachment two, Pate noted that it must change the definition of a quorum to match the code of ordinances. She also said that she was open to making changes in the next meeting that align with some of the rules in attachment one. “There are some things that I’ll admit in attachment one, which is the current version,” Pate said, “that I do think are better than what was in the former version. So, I think we could add some stuff back.” The board then voted 3-2 to adopt attachment two, with a note to change the quorum definition and keep the agenda item cover sheets. It will continue the debate over the rules of procedure during its next meeting at 5 p.m. Jan. 20.
Read more » click here
Previously reported – January 2024
An important point that they made was that the basis of the document is the School of Government template and that all of the proposed changes were in previous versions of this document that we used before.
New Holden Beach commissioners change rules, procedures; add position
The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners during a Friday, Jan. 5, special meeting adopted new rules and procedures, elected an executive secretary and decided to re-work the proposed additional 35-plus budget meetings. During the meeting, tensions between both the board and attendees were high as questions swirled around the amount of time given to the public to review all the proposed changes and the purposes of those changes.
Some of the changes made were:
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- Creating an executive secretary position;
- Closed session procedures concerning purchasing, leasing and exchanging real property: Disclosing the property owner, location and the town’s intent for the property;
- Making all meeting documentation available online;
- Adding an “agenda topic cover sheet,” and more.
There were also numerous wording changes throughout the rules and procedures document, too. Commissioner Rick Smith was not physically at the meeting but joined in via phone call. He could participate in discussions but could not vote because he was not physically present. Since the agenda packet for the special meeting was not published until Wednesday, citizens had only 48 hours before the meeting to review the 40-page document, including the amended rules and procedures. The 24-page amended rules and procedures did not include the 19-page original document for the public to compare the differences. Numerous residents spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting, asking the board to hold off voting on the changes until the new commissioners complete their new commissioner training sessions later in the month. Twelve submitted written public comments requested the board to postpone action, too. Commissioner Page Dyer agreed with the public commenters and urged the board to hold off on the decisions until the new commissioners complete their training, which would also give the public more time to review the changes. Dyer was the only commissioner who voted in opposition to amending the rules and procedures and said she was uncomfortable adopting the changes and questioned if the changes were legal. “… It was approximately 48 hours,” she said. “And for the public to have to be able to go through that much documentation without indication of what was changed, for the average layperson that’s not gone through any municipality training, that’s going to be difficult for them to digest.” Town Attorney Rick Green did not attend the special meeting nor join through a phone call, so commissioners were unable to ask for immediate legal guidance to aid in their decisions. Smith agreed with Dyer, and both suggested waiting to make the amendments until Green is in attendance to address questions and give legal advice. Commissioner Rick Paarfus said all changes were discussed with the Town Manager David Hewett and Town Clerk Heather Finnell before proposing them to the board, noting that many of the amendments were taken from past town rules and procedures. “We are required to get a set of rules and procedures in place,” he noted. “It should’ve been done at the last meeting.” Paarfus also said he believes the newly approved document will make the town more transparent and bring clarity to residents in understanding town projects and plans. Mayor Pro-Tem Tom Myers said the amendments were based on the UNC School of Government template and were heavily scrutinized before being proposed. He said the changes were needed to make Holden Beach stronger in their government as a whole. “Like it or not, we have a weak mayor form of government,” he added. Myers and Paarfus said all the changes were supposed to be made at the December meeting. The new rules will improve the government of the town and will bring back “good practices,” Myers noted. After approving the new rules and procedures, Paarfus motioned for Commissioner Tracey Thomas to serve in the newly added executive secretary position. The motion passed three to one, with Dyer being the only opposing vote. Thomas said the position will add more “control” to agendas and said the commissioners in favor of the changes believe they are the best way to move forward with meetings.
The executive secretary’s role, as stated on pages 11 and 12 of the approved rules and procedures, is to:
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- Create the agenda;
- Assemble the meeting packet;
- And authorize the delivery and publication of the agenda.
Paarfus said Town Clerk Heather Finnell does a great job and that the executive secretary will ensure that agenda items are thorough and filled with sufficient information, noting that the new role does not have the authority to prevent items from getting on the agenda. “[The executive secretary’s] primary function is to make sure that all the information is there and it’s clear so the public can review it,” he said. “That’s it. And it hasn’t been happening, so that’s what we want to do.” Myers said the secretary will serve on the board and that the board could take future action if the position did not work out or if changes are wanted. Thomas said that the position is a collaborative role that will include working with the Town Clerk and making sure all agenda items are completed with the needed materials. Although Thomas stated the position was for collaboration, Dyer, Smith and Mayor Alan Holden said they thought the position was a slap in the face to Finnell’s role and previous and current work with the town, noting she has been awarded as the “top clerk” in North Carolina in the past. “You haven’t had the first training course and you’re deciding that this lady, the number one clerk in the State of North Carolina, doesn’t know what they’re doing,” Holden said, directed towards Thomas, Paarfus and Myers. Dyer said she hasn’t experienced any issues with the agenda before and that the hired staff is able, and has been able, to complete tasks for the board. She and Smith both said the added position is not necessary. Dyer also noted that the town’s charter states the town manager is the person who directs staff and wondered if having a commissioner direct staff would be a violation of the charter. In an earlier discussion in the meeting, Holden also said he sees these actions as changing the town’s charter and questioned if it is a violation. “I’m not directing Heather, I’m just working with Heather,” Thomas replied to Dyers comment. “Like I said, it’s a collaborative effort.” Throughout the meeting, Paarfus and Myers said the changes could be revised, amended or fixed in the future if they are not correct or legal. The three commissioners seeking the changes just want to get a foundation in place they maintained. The board also adopted an “agenda topic cover sheet” to be added to agenda items. The sheet breaks down an issue or action, its potential fiscal impact, associated contracts and agreements and notes different staff recommendations. Smith stated multiple times that he sees these actions as the three newly elected commissioners working together as “a team” to change how the town runs. Holden, during the rules and procedures discussion, called the three commissioners’ steps “a grab of power.” “Why can’t we listen to the people, why can’t we take advantage of the number one clerk in the state of North Carolina,” Holden said. “Why do we throw all of this aside for a power grab? And that is exactly what it is.” One action on the agenda included adding over 35 additional meetings between January and June. The meetings were labeled as budget meetings and were proposed to be held every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:00 a.m. There were occasional special meetings scheduled, too. Several public comment speakers, as well as Dyer, Smith and Holden, said the meetings were at an unrealistic time for residents, and commissioners, with jobs. “Unless I shut down my business, I cannot attend a meeting every other day at 10:00 a.m.,” Dyer said. Dyer also questioned why the two or so additional budget meetings the board has had in the past weren’t enough. Paarfus, Myers and Thomas said that the meetings were set during work hours, so staff did not have to work late and that a lot of the meetings were expected to be brief. They said they felt they needed more time with each department to learn the budget and department needs because they are new to the board. “No votes are going to be taken…,” Myers said. The board agreed to hold off on taking action on a Board of Commissioners budget meeting schedule and work together to create a schedule to ensure all commissioners and the mayor can attend; this was the only unanimous vote. The schedule is supposed to be discussed at the next regular meeting on Jan. 23. “It’s going to be a rough ride,” Mayor Holden said. Town staff stayed quiet throughout the meeting and did not weigh in on discussions, nor did the board request to hear their input. This story only covers some of the information or details discussed and shared at the meeting. The meeting agenda packet, new rules and procedures and video are publicly accessible online. The entire agenda packet with the new amendments can be found on the Town of Holden Beach’s website at https://hbtownhall.com/agendas
Read more » click here
Quorum
THB Code of Ordinances – Quorum
§30.15 VOTING AND QUORUMS.
(A) Quorum. The Mayor and three Commissioners, or three Commissioners without the Mayor shall constitute a quorum (simple majority) of the Town BOC
Sending the statutory language and town charter section.
Town charter 30.15 Voting and Quorums – Quorum. The Mayor and three Commissioners, or three Commissioners without the Mayor shall constitute a quorum (simple majority) of the Town BOC
GS 160A-74 Quorum
(a) Majority of three actual membership of the council plus the mayor, excluding vacant seats, shall constitute a quorum.
(b) Any member present by means of simultaneous communication GS 166A-19.24 shall be counted as present for purposes of whether a quorum is present only during the period while simultaneous communication is maintained for that member.
GS 160A-82: Nothing in this Part, except GS 160A-77, 160A-78, and 160A-79, shall be construed to repeal any portion of any city charter inconsistent with anything contained herein. (note–they envisioned that charters may differ from this statute so used statutory language to state the charter rules over the statutory language.)
Form of Government
Commissioner-Manager (weak Mayor) form of government
§30.02 FORM OF GOVERNMENT.
(A) The town shall operate under the Commissioner-Manager (weak Mayor) form of government. The legislative authority of the town shall be vested in the Mayor and Town Board of Commissioners, hereinafter referred to as the BOC, which shall consist of a Mayor and five Commissioners chosen as hereafter provided.
§30.04 MAYOR; DUTIES.
The Mayor shall serve as the chief spokesperson for the town and the chief advocate of formally approved and adopted town policy. In addition, the Mayor shall preside at meetings of the BOC; shall be recognized as head of the town government for all ceremonial purposes and by the governor for the purposes of disaster or emergency declarations. The Mayor shall sign ordinances and resolutions only on their passage; shall sign deeds, bonds, contracts and other instruments approved by BOC as required by law. Willful failure by a mayor to discharge their legal duties shall result in those duties being assumed by the Mayor Pro Tem by reason of disqualification, as set forth in § 30.05. Legal remedies for failure to discharge the duties of Mayor may result in legal censure or charges of contempt and may serve as grounds for impeachment. The Mayor shall convene the Town BOC in special called session when deemed necessary by the Mayor. Unless otherwise expressly provided by law or this chapter, the Mayor shall have no vote on any question before the Town BOC except in case of a tie.
North Carolina has created a very limited role for mayors. Our state laws leave many decisions about the management and operation of municipalities to the governing board, or, in jurisdictions operating in a council-manager form of government, to managers.
The council-manager form of government is the system of local government that combines the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of a council or other governing body, with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government manager. The form establishes a representative system where all power is concentrated in the elected council and where the council hires a professionally trained manager to oversee the delivery of public services.
Based on Separation of Functions:
• Governing Board is Legislative and Policy Oriented.
• Administration is responsibility of professional manager.
Characteristics:
• More Businesslike Form of Government
• Pinpoints Authority and Responsibility
Mayor’s Role (N.C. General Statute 160A-151)
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- Very Few Formal Powers.
- Preside at governing board meetings.
- Voting to break a tie.
- Sign documents on behalf of the city.
- Can call special meetings of council.
- Mayor and all council members are ineligible to serve as manager, interim manager, or acting manager.
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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, February 17th
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.
It’s not like they don’t have anything to work on …
The following seven (7) items are what’s In the Works/Loose Ends queue:
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- 2018 – Accommodation/Occupancy Tax Compliance
- 2019 – Dog Park
- 2021 – Pier Properties Project
- 2021 – Rights-of-Way
- 2021 – Block Q Project/Carolina Avenue
- 2023 – Fire Station Project
- 2024 – Pavilion Replacement
- 2018 – Accommodation/Occupancy Tax Compliance
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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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From 2024 / Causeway
Holden Beach Causeway – Facebook
Sometimes change is out of our control but if we recognize it in time, we can help influence change to have a positive outcome. Our community is special and no longer a secret. The area’s population increase is happening at a rapid pace. The Holden Beach Causeway has become insufficient to meet today’s demand. Spend a little time on the Causeway and it is easy to see it is unsafe for pedestrians and vehicles entering and exiting the local businesses. The crash rating on the Causeway is three (3) times higher than the NC state average for similar roads. Since 2018 I have persistently advocated for a study on developing the necessary changes needed on the Holden Beach Causeway. The Holden Beach Causeway Corridor Study was approved and funded in 2019. The study was developed with the influence of the Causeway property owners working with Brunswick County Planning, the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the Grand Strand Area Transportation Study (GSATS). A special thank you to the Causeway Property Owners who were a part of the Causeway Study Steering Committee. Lyn Holden, Gina Robinson, Steven Parish, Joe Shannon, Andrew Robinson and I dedicated a lot of time working on the study. Communicating with other Causeway property owners and representing what is right for our community, to prevent an unwanted outcome. The steering committee involved Tri-Beach Fire Department in the conversations. Including their opinions on the study’s development to assure they had sufficient access through the Causeway and to the island for emergency response. All headed up by the carefully chosen consulting firm, Bolten and Menk. The consulting firm did an amazing job working with all of the obstacles on the Causeway, consulting with the steering committee and business owners about their concerns of any negative impacts from the project. We are proud to present to you the Holden Beach Causeway Corridor Study. Please visit the link below to review the final draft. Considering all of the obstacles and considerations for everyone, the outcome offers a bright future for our community. It also provides a path for sustainability and safety for our Causeway and its businesses, as our area continues to grow.
What happens next?
Chairman to the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners, Commissioner Randy Thompson, has requested an endorsement for the Holden Beach Causeway Project from the Town of Holden Beach. Commissioner Thompson’s position for requesting the Town endorsement is the Causeway is the highway ingress, egress to the island. Next, the study will be presented to the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners for endorsement. Once the study has been endorsed by Brunswick County, the study will go back to the Grand Strand Area Transportation Study for adoption. Once adopted by GSATS, we can begin applying for Funding. It has been a long road to get to this point and we have a long road ahead to receive funding and begin construction. Thank you all for your support for the Holden Beach Causeway Project. We will need your continuous support as we navigate through the next phase of this process. I will keep this page posted as developments are made with the County required endorsements and the road to GSATS adoption.
Jabin Norris president of PROACTIVE Real Estate
For more information » click here
HB Causeway Study Report » click here
THB Newsletter (01/25/24)
Holden Beach Causeway Study
The Grand Strand Area Transportation Study MPO (GSATS) funded a study to improve the Holden Beach Causeway by observing the area and addressing the concerns of Causeway business owners and patrons as well as the community related to vehicular and pedestrian safety, accessibility, right”of”way encroachments, and parking deficiencies. This study provides insight as to how the corridor functions and ideas for future improvements from a transportation and land use perspective.
For more information and to view the study, visit the Brunswick County Planning Department’s website: https://www.brunswickcountync.gov/409/Holden-Beach-Causeway-Transportation-Cor
The Draft Holden Beach Causeway Transportation Study will go to the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners for a public hearing and for their consideration on February 5, 2024, at 3:00 p.m.
Previously reported – February 2023
A popular Brunswick beach road could soon see needed improvements.
Here’s the first step.
A popular Brunswick County road could see much-needed improvements if a project more than four years in the making gets its final go-ahead. Since 2019, Holden Beach residents have pushed local and state leaders to fund a study looking at the Holden Beach Causeway, the business strip on the mainland side of Holden Beach. Now, with a contractor in place and funding squared away, state and local leaders are eager for the study to get underway.
Here’s what to know as officials await the green light to begin.
What will be studied?
The Grand Strand Area Transportation Study (Myrtle Beach Metropolitan Planning Organization) is leading the Holden Beach Causeway Study. The GSATS MPO study area boundary encompasses the northern coast area of South Carolina, including portions of Horry and Georgetown counties, and the southern coastal area of North Carolina including portions of Brunswick County. According to Marc Hoeweler, MPO Director at GSATS, the study will focus primarily on access management by studying existing rights-of-way and driveways and how they can best be structured and ordered for better traffic flow. Hoeweler said the project was prompted by a request from the county. The study would also address pedestrian safety concerns and parking deficiencies. Following its completion, the study would serve as a guide for future road improvements and development along the causeway.
What is the cost?
The $40,000 study will be funded with both federal and local dollars. According to Hoeweler, 80% (or $32,000) will be funded by federal money, while a 20% (or $8,000) local match will be provided by Brunswick County.
What’s the hold up?
According to Brunswick County officials, GSATS is currently working with the North Carolina Department of Transportation to finalize the contract with the consulting firm. Following a “competitive” selection process, Minnesota-based engineering firm Bolton & Menk was selected for the project. Once a final contract is signed by all parties, work on the study will begin. Hoeweler said he expects approval any day now and a kickoff meeting could occur within a week of the contract being signed.
Read more » click here
From 2023 / Bulkheads
The discussion was on whether we want to bulkhead the town properties in the 700 and 800 blocks of OBW. If we do it will require bulkheads on approximately 700 linear feet at a cost of $350 per linear foot. The preliminary cost estimate is $298,925 just for a continuous bulkhead with tiebacks. Pat suggested that we still need to know how many parking spaces could be put there. Brian stated that we have no plans to put parking there now. He also made the point that the area was delineated in order to preserve property, bulkheading is a way to do that. In addition, they pointed out that USACE may require parking in that area, so it is important to minimize erosion and maintain the land there in case it is needed. David said that we will need to submit design in order to get a CAMA permit. Shane was asked to report back additional information regarding the permit process.
Editor’s Note
The Town owns ten (10) parcels in the 800 block which we obtained on 04/21/13 ostensibly to be used for parking.
Hurricane Season
For more information » click here.
Be prepared – have a plan!
No matter what a storm outlook is for a given year,
vigilance and preparedness is urged.
Wishing you a new year filled with health and happiness
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News from Town of Holden Beach 
Sand is vanishing on east side of Ocean Isles $11M erosion fix
Hurricane Vehicle Decals
THE INTRUDER 
