2. Discussion and Possible Action on Amended Fund Balance Policy – Town Manager Chadwick . a. Resolution 26-09, Resolution Amending the Fund Balance Policy
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and possible action approving an update to the Fund Balance Policy.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The current general fund balance policy states the fund balance will be maintained with a balance of 40 to 70 percent. If the audited fund balance is more than 70 percent and the BOC chooses to continue this policy, the funds over 70 percent will be transferred to the Beach & Inlet Capital Reserve Fund.
At the last meeting, I recommended a transfer and explained in the cover sheet that I would be recommending updates to the current fund balance policy.
With an increase in capital needs being discussed, funding trends making it more difficult for federal and state funding to be obtained and some longer wait times to receive reimbursement, there is a definite need to increase fund balance if those needs arise.
I am recommending the following updates to the current policy:
Increase the amount to be maintained in the General Fund Balance at a minimum of 50 percent and a maximum of 100 percent fund balance. Anything over 100 percent will continue to be transferred to the Beach & Inlet Capital Reserve Fund with Board approval.
Remove section “c” in the policy. This has been discussed with the commissioners and you will be deciding once it is refunded. Either way it will be sunset and doesn’t need to remain in the policy. c. Annually, beginning with the adoption and implementation of the 1 July 2019 budget, the refunded PNC surety monies remitted to the Town of Holden Beach from Brunswick County shall be escrowed in the Beach Renourishment and Inlet Management Fund.
Remove “Administrative Authorization” Any authorizations should come from the Board of Commissioners.
Change highlighted portions to maintain consistency throughout the document.
Previously reported – July 2026
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and possible action approving a transfer from the General Fund fund balance to the Beach and Inlet Reserve Fund.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The current general fund balance policy states the fund balance will be maintained with a balance of 40 to 70 percent. If the audited fund balance is more than 70 percent and the BOC chooses to continue this policy, the funds will be transferred to the Beach and Inlet Reserve Fund.
The last audited fund balance amount of the general fund was $3,410,317 which was 82% fund balance. To reduce the fund balance to the 70 percent threshold, the amount to be transferred is $499,070.
Please note I will be recommending a change to the fund balance policy in the future. To account for federal and state funding trends, I will recommend the balance be maintained at 50 to 100 percent. Anything over 100 percent will be transferred to the Beach and Inlet Fund.
Editor’s note – It shall be the Fund Balance Policy of the Town of Holden Beach to maintain a minimum of 40% and a maximum of 70% of unassigned fund balance in the General Fund.
The Fund Balance Policy has been in place for eight years and directs how excess General Fund dollars, including unspent property tax revenue, are to be used. The original policy set aside excess funds for future beach nourishment projects. The current Board requested further discussion with the Town Manager before transferring any funds. A motion was made for Town staff to review the policy and present recommended changes to the Board at the next regular meeting.
Update – The current Fund Balance Policy requires the General Fund to maintain an unassigned fund balance of at least 40% and no more than 70%. The Board agreed to revise the policy to establish a minimum of 50% and a maximum of 100%. Any funds exceeding 100% will be transferred to the Beach & Inlet Capital Reserve Fund.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
3. Discussion and Possible Approval of Amended Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Schedule – Town Clerk Finnell
Agenda Packet – pages 36 – 37
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Approval of Amended Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Schedule
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Due to scheduling conflicts with the October regular meeting date, it is recommended that the Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Schedule be updated . The proposed new date for the regular meeting is October 27th.
The suggested motion is to approve the amended Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Schedule.
Update – The Board rescheduled the BOC’s Regular meeting from October 20th to October 27th.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
4. Discussion and Possible Action on Audit Committee Vacancies – Town Clerk Finnell
Agenda Packet – pages 38 – 40
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Action on Audit Committee Vacancies
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Section 30.27 of the Code of Ordinance requires the Audit Committee to be comprised of a minimum of three full members. The applicant selected at the July meeting did not accept the appointment so currently there are only two members serving on the committee . There are no remaining applicants from the last round of interviews the Board conducted . If the Board agrees, staff can solicit interest from the community and schedule a special meeting for September 15th at 4:45 p.m. to interview applicants.
§ 30.27 AUDIT COMMITTEE.
(A) Creation, name and number of members. There is hereby established an Audit Committee which shall be comprised of not less than three or more than four residents or property owners of the town as full members , plus one alternate.
Update – There are two vacancies on the Audit Committee: one regular member seat and one alternate member seat. The consensus of the Board was to proceed with filling the vacancies. Interviews will be scheduled at a Special Meeting on September 15th prior to the BOC’s Regular Meeting.
THB Newsletter (08/21/26) Volunteers Needed The Town’s Audit Committee has vacancies and is looking for volunteers. Click here to view information on the committee. Interviews for the committee will be held on Tuesday, September 15th at 4:45 p.m. Click here to access an application if you are interested in applying to serve. Completed applications can be emailed to heather@hbtownhall.com or dropped off at Town Hall prior to September 4th.
Ocean Boulevard Stormwater The stormwater project is underway in coordination with NCDOT Project drawings are not yet available
Previously reported – July 2026
Environmental evaluations and design level activities for both project areas continue Field assessments heading toward regulatory confirmation Survey team will pick up environmental flag locations to add to base map Internal construction sheet reviews will begin over the next several days Coordination with NCDOT
Previously reported – June 2025 The Town was awarded $2.2Min 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 Block Q stakeholder meetings have been completed. The BOC’s work session and Parks and Recreation Board input meetings have been scheduled.
Block Q Stage Area The Block Q Stage dedication and ribbon cutting will be held September 4th at 11:00 a.m.
Previously reported – July 2026 Building is completed and in full use They hosted the first concert there on Sunday, July 5th Town staff worked diligently with the contractor to get this completed.
Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP) Meetings have been held with the engineer, grant administrator, and CAT team They are still identifying possible projects that qualify
Previously reported – July 2026 Survey is on Town website to help identify potential projects
Previously reported – June 2026 We are in Phase 2 which includes the following: Planning, Project Identification, and Prioritization
Previously reported – May 2026 The Town is currently participating in the 2025 – 2026 cycle of the North Carolina Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP). The RCCP is a community-based initiative that greatly benefits from involvement, engagement and feedback among local stakeholders. Click here to view details on the program.
Previously reported – April 2025
N.C. Resilient Coastal Communities Program »click here
The RCCP is a four-phase program designed to:
Address local barriers to coastal resilience, including limited capacity, economic constraints, and social inequities .
Assist communities in conducting risk and vulnerability assessments to create a prioritized portfolio of resilience
Advance coastal resilience projects through engineering and design to achieve shovel ready
Link communities with funding sources for project
The four phases are :
Phase 1: Community Engagement and Risk & Vulnerability Assessment
Phase 2: Planning, Project Identification, and Prioritization
Phase 3: Engineering and Design
Phase 4: Project Implementation
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.
Canal Dredging Plans are being made to dredge canals this coming winter Staff is working on alternative disposal site Staff is actively working with the Corps on the cost of dredge spoils disposal
Pier Property Site Mid-Atlantic is supposed to start the pier underwater survey next week
Inlet Hazard Area Staff will be attending the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) meeting on August 26th and proposed changes to the Inlet Hazard Areas is on the agenda
Hot Button Items / Inlet Hazard Areas For more information » click here
Dredging Area Maintenance USACE is still conducting maintenance work at dredge spoil area DA293 which is off Sailfish
Fire Station The Town is preparing an Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for engineering and design services for the new fire station
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.
Previously reported – July 2025 The Planning Department is working on plans for a new fire station. Director Tim Evans talked to the State Fire Marshal and confirmed that the proposed fire station is the appropriate size, is in the appropriate location, and has the right staffing for a community of our size.
Previously reported – August 2025 Timbo gave a slide presentation that reviewed the justifications and requirements for a new fire station on the island at an estimated total cost of $3,375,000. He recommended that we should put the fire station project into the Capital Improvement Plan which will improve our Community Rating System. The improved Community Rating System ratings could get us additional savings on our insurance premium rates. The motion was made to put the fire station project into the Capital Improvement Plan as an unfunded requirement.
Crosswalks The Town is working on crosswalk enhancements and the addition of new crosswalks at other locations. Funding is now available at no cost to the Town.
Editor’s note –
Town has been working with the NCDOT evaluating the situation
Several years ago five crosswalks were approved at four locations with two at Jordan Boulevard
The locations were determined by working with NCDOT on meeting their nine criteria
The Town, based on community feedback, would like substantially more
We currently have twenty-four public beach access points that should have crosswalks
NCDOT indicated that any painting of crosswalks by the Town is considered unauthorized and illegal
Beach Access Points Staff are working on identifying emergency access points on the west end of the island Currently the farthest west emergency access is at the 800 block
Strategic Planning The Strategic Planning session is expected to be held at the end of October or the beginning of November
National Beach Sweep The Town will be participating in the National Beach Sweep on September 18th and 19th
Shag Lessons The Town is accepting names for an interest list for shag lessons beginning October 9th and running for six weeks
Bake-Off Residents are invited to prepare a dessert for the Bake-Off on September 16th
Stuff the Patrol Truck The Police Department will collect school supplies at Sunday’s concert
No Wake Zone The Town had requested a No Wake Zone in the Intracoastal Waterway from Blockade Runner Drive to Roger Street. Wildlife officials indicated they would approve the area from Rothschild Street to Conch Street, which is smaller than requested. Approval from USACE is still needed.
National Day of Service The 25th anniversary of 9/11 is approaching. In remembrance, Town of Holden Beach departments will hold a stair-climbing competition with the Town of Shallotte
In Case You Missed It
Father and son die after ocean rescue at Holden Beach On Sunday morning (August 2, 2026), a father and his son drowned in a swimming incident while vacationing at Holden Beach. The victims were identified as Daniel Jason Roberts, 46, and his son, Dylan Daniel Roberts, 20. Reports indicate the son entered the water to try and save his father who appeared to be in distress. Emergency crews responded to the 1100 block of Ocean Boulevard West after Brunswick County Communications received reports of two people struggling in the water. Both men received advanced life support but were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not confirmed whether a rip current caused the deaths, though weather reports showed moderate to high rip current risk that weekend.
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On February 3, 2026, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to September 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
What He Did Not Say
Remind everyone it’s Hurricane Season – be prepared, have a plan!
Public Service Announcements
Remember that parking ordinances are strictly enforced, including pay-to-park requirements. Do not block the emergency beach accesses located on the far east end, at the pier, the 500 block or the 800 block. These accesses are for emergency response access, not temporary parking to unload passengers or beach equipment. Blocking accesses creates a life threatening time delay to emergency response.
The bike lines are for bikes, not Low Speed Vehicles (LSV) and not for parking. Bicyclists under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet.
LSVs are still required to follow the same traffic laws as every other motor vehicle, including travel lane regulations and very importantly seat belt and child restraint regulations.
Pets are required to be on a leash at all times when off of your property, and no pets are allowed on the beach strand from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Beach equipment must be removed daily and cannot be left overnight. Storage of beach equipment on the frontal dunes is also restricted. Items left unattended will be removed and discarded as trash.
Fireworks and pyrotechnics create a safety risk to the operator and bystanders as well as a fire hazard to the dune vegetation and houses. Fireworks are illegal on the island; possession of fireworks is a Class 2 misdemeanor which carries a maximum penalty of 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. If you light it, we write it.
If you know something, hear something, or see something – call 911 and let the police deal with it.
A reminder of the Town’s beach strand ordinances: …..1) Chapter 90 / Animals / §90.20 / Responsibilities of owners …….a) pets are not allowed on the beach strand except between 5p.m. and 9a.m. daily …….b) dog’s must be on a leash at all times …….c) owner’s need to clean up after their animals …..2) Chapter 94 / Beach regulations / §94.05 / Digging of holes on beach strand …….a) digging holes greater than 12 inches deep without responsible person there …….b) holes shall be filled in prior to leaving …..3) Chapter 94 / Beach regulations / §94.06 / Placing obstructions on the beach strand …….a) all unattended beach equipment must be removed daily by 6:00pm
2026 Concert Schedule The 2026 concert schedule is now available. Enjoy the sounds of summer at our FREE concert series. Concerts are held on Sundays at 6:30 p.m. throughout the summer.
Beginning May 24th and continuing through September 6th
HBPOA Labor Day Meeting HBPOA meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 5that Town Hall
6. Public Comments on General Items
The new public restrooms do not have any clear signage identifying the building or directing people to the facilities. While the parking sign indicates that short-term free parking is available for restroom users, there does not appear to be any other indication of what the building is for. Without signage, it is unclear how the public would know if the restrooms are available. Anecdotally, this seems to be the case, as most activity still appears to be centered around the old bathrooms. At a minimum, I would recommend placing a sign on each side of the building. It may also be prudent to add signs along Jordan Boulevard directing visitors toward the restrooms. Given the significant investment in these facilities, I do not think they should remain underutilized simply because the public is unaware they are there.
General Comments
HBPOA Labor Day Meeting HBPOA meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 5that Town Hall.
BOC’s Meeting The Board of Commissioners’ next Regular Meetingis scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month, September 15th
THB Newsletter (08/17/26)
Brunswick County Moves from Stage 3 to Stage 2 Water Restrictions
Due to encouraging trends in drought conditions, water usage and system demands, Brunswick County has moved from a Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning to a Stage 2 Mandatory Water Conservation Alert. Under Stage 2, some water restrictions are reduced or removed and the automatic irrigation schedule is expanded.
Stage 2 – Key Reminders & Main Restrictions
This is a select list of some of the main differences under a Stage 2 Mandatory Water Conservation Alert. See the full list on the website at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise.
Automated outdoor irrigation days are increased
It’s not like they don’t have anything to work on …
The following five (5) items are what’s In the Works/Loose Endsqueue:
2019 – Dog Park
2021 – Pier Properties Project
2021 – Rights-of-Way
2021 – Block Q Project/Carolina Avenue
2023 – Fire Station Project
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.
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.
Beach Nourishment Need Fire Station Need Water Tank Need/Want Pier Want Captain Pete’s Property Want
.
We do not have sufficient resources to fund all of these projects. If we use the available funds for wants rather than needs, we will be unable to address our essential priorities. If additional funding is needed, a property tax increase will be required—plain and simple.
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Lost in the Sauce
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From 2024 / Blocking Emergency Beach Accesses
Previously reported – June 2024 ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: No Action – Discussion on emergency beach access
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Chief Todd (Tri-Beach Fire) & Chief Dixon have observed emergency access issues
Over the last couple of summers, emergency responders have noticed an increase in people using the areas around the emergency accesses for their beach equipment. More and more often we are seeing canopies, tents, towels, volleyball nets, surfboards, and other beach related equipment directly surrounding the emergency access points. This causes significant emergency response delays. During certain situations, it is not uncommon for some beach equipment to be run over by emergency vehicles as moving the equipment takes too long and no alternate routes are available. This not only increases emergency response times, but it also threatens damage to personal beach equipment and threatens damage to emergency vehicles. We are asking that the Board of Commissioners consider discussing the possibility of enacting ordinances that either prevent beach equipment within a certain distance of emergency access points, and/or ordinances which create emergency vehicle lanes on the beach strand.
They were here tonight presenting an issue that needs to be addressed by the Board. They would like to prohibit blocking emergency access points by not allowing any obstructions there. In addition, they would like to have a travel lane for emergency vehicles on the beach strand. They discussed the issue and decided to benchmark off the surrounding islands policies and have the staff bring back a proposal at the next scheduled Regular Meeting.
We already have verbiage in Ordinance §94.06 that you can’t place items within ten (10) feet of the dunes. That ten (10) feet gives emergency responders a clear path along the dune line for them to go up and down the beach strand. We would just need to modify the Ordinance to prohibit blocking emergency access points.
§ 94.06 PLACING OBSTRUCTIONS ON THE BEACH . (A) All beach equipment must be removed from the beach by its owner or permitted user on a daily basis. All personal items and beach equipment unattended and remaining on the beach between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. will be classified as abandoned property and shall be removed and disposed of by the town .
(B) All beach equipment shall be set at least ten feet from any sea turtle nest or dune vegetation.
Previously reported – August 2024 ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and possible action on amending Town Ordinance§ 94.06 Placing Obstructions on the Beach. Possible action to add clause (C) prohibiting beach equipment from blocking emergency accessways.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: At our last BOC meeting, Chief Dixon and Chief Todd discussed issues they are having getting onto the beach and travelling down the beach due to people setting up their beach equipment. Town Ordinance § 94.06 already establishes a travel lane by the dune, but an additional clause is needed to address emergency vehicle accessways.
Proposed new clause: (C) All beach equipment shall be set at least ten feet from any emergency vehicle accessway. Existing ordinance:
Chief Todd (Tri-Beach Fire) & Chief Dixon previously requested the Board address emergency access issues regarding getting on to the beach strand. Mayor Pro Tem Myers proposed adding a clause prohibiting beach equipment from blocking emergency accessways. Both the fire chief and the police chief do not feel that this will do any good. Commissioner Smith wants input from both the fire chief and the police chief as to their recommendations. The Board wants them to tell us what needs to be done.
Commissioners Dyer said previously they had put on the agenda discussing adjusting the prohibited hours and that still needs to be addressed. David stated that more importantly we need additional beach strand access points and that has to be considered a priority for the Board.
Well, I am disappointed that neither chief offered any viable alternatives nor did they benchmark what the other beach communities are doing to address this issue.
From 2025 / Permanently Close a Portion of Carolina Avenue
Previously reported – May 2022 North Carolina Statute §160A-299, lays out the process to permanently close a street/alley. Attached is a summary of the process (Attachment 1).
A draft resolution of intent is included for your review (Attachment 2). In order for the Board to adopt the resolution of intent to close Carolina Avenue from its intersection with Jordan Boulevard to its intersection with Quinton Street, it would require a property survey of the specific road area proposed to be closed to obtain a metes and bounds description.
Staff seeks direction on if the Board would like to move forward with the process to close a portion of Carolina Avenue and on related Block Q site development actions.
The intent is to close Carolina Avenue from its intersection with Jordan Boulevard to its intersection with Quinton Street. David provided a draft of a proposed Resolution that will have to be adopted by the Board in order to proceed. A Public Hearing will also be required to move forward. He outlined the steps necessary to make this happen. Motion was made to move forward with the process as outlined.
Previously reported – July 2022 At the May 17th meeting, the Board instructed staff to move forward with the process to close a portion of Carolina Avenue between Quinton Street and Jordan Boulevard. A survey for the area has been completed. The metes and bounds description has been added to the draft resolution of intent presented at the May meeting (Attachment 1).
Staff is proposing that the required public hearing be held at the September 20, 2022 meeting. This will allow staff time to advertise the public hearing for four successive weeks, post the property and mail any required notices required per North Carolina Statute §160A-299. Attached is the summary of the process that was presented at the May meeting (Attachment 2).
If the Board would like to move forward with the closure of Carolina Avenue between Quinton Street and Jordan Boulevard, the suggested motion is to approve Resolution 22-07, Resolution of Intent to Permanently Close a Portion of Carolina Avenue and schedule the public hearing for September 20, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
§ 160A-299. Procedure for permanently closing streets and alleys. (a) When a city proposes to permanently close any street or public alley, the council shall first adopt a resolution declaring its intent to close the street or alley and calling a public hearing on the question. The resolution shall be published once a week for four successive weeks prior to the hearing, a copy thereof shall be sent by registered or certified mail to all owners of property adjoining the street or alley as shown on the county tax records, and a notice of the closing and public hearing shall be prominently posted in at least two places along the street or alley. At the hearing, any person may be heard on the question of whether or not the closing would be detrimental to the public interest, or the property rights of any individual. If it appears to the satisfaction of the council after the hearing that closing the street or alley is not contrary to the public interest, and that no individual owning property in the vicinity of the street or alley or in the subdivision in which it is located would thereby be deprived of reasonable means of ingress and egress to his property, the council may adopt an order closing the street or alley. A certified copy of the order (or judgment of the court) shall be filed in the office of the register of deeds of the county in which the street, or any portion thereof, is located. Upon the closing of a street or alley in accordance with this section, subject to the provisions of subsection (f) of this section, all right, title, and interest in the right-of-way shall be conclusively presumed to be vested in those persons owning lots or parcels of land adjacent to the street or alley, and the title of such adjoining landowners, for the width of the abutting land owned by them, shall extend to the centerline of the street or alley.
NCGS 160A-299 state the Protocols for Permanently Closing Streets. The Resolution adopted by the Board is necessary in order to proceed. A Public Hearing is required to move forward and was scheduled.
Previously reported – September 2022 PUBLIC HEARING: Board of Commissioners’ Intent to Permanently Close a Portion of Carolina Avenue from its Intersection with Jordan Boulevard to its Intersection with Quinton Street
Public Hearing was held on their intent to close a portion of Carolina Avenue from its intersection with Jordan Boulevard to its intersection with Quinton Street.
If it is found to the satisfaction of the Board that closure is not contrary to public interest and no individual owning property in the vicinity of the street would be deprived of reasonable ingress or egress to the property, the Board could adopt Ordinance 22-20 (Attachment 1). The ordinance orders that the portion of Carolina Avenue from its intersection with Jordan Boulevard to its intersection with Quinton Street be closed effective immediately and directs that the order be filed in the office of the Register of Deeds.
Commissioner Murdock questioned whether it was necessary for a portion of the street to be closed immediately since we currently do not have a plan in place to utilize the property. Decision was to hold in abeyance until they have a plan in place.
Editor’s note – Ordinance 22-20, which closed Carolina Avenue, was passed in 2022. We currently block Carolina Avenue on both Saturday and Sunday, the two busiest paid parking days of the week. The question is: why have we not closed the street yet?
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.
NOAA maintains prediction for below-normal Atlantic hurricane season Need for U.S. residents to prepare remains With the climatological peak of hurricane season approaching in early September, NOAA’s prediction for below-normal activity in the Atlantic basin remains. Forecasters from NOAA’s National Weather Service updated today the number of expected named storms to 7-13 (with winds of 39 mph or greater), of which 2-6 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater), including 0-2 major hurricanes (winds of 111 mph or greater). These ranges cover the entire season from June 1 through November 30 and are inclusive of the two tropical storms that have already formed. NOAA forecasters predict a 75% chance for below-normal activity, with a 20% chance of a near-normal season, and just a 5% chance of above-normal activity. This updated prediction is similar to the initial outlook issued in May. In the Atlantic basin, a typical hurricane season will yield 14 named storms, of which seven become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes.
Only Gulf storms in the Atlantic Basin so far To date, the 2026 season has produced two named tropical storms, Arthur and Bertha, and no hurricanes. Tropical Storm Arthur was the first named storm of the Atlantic season. Forming in mid-June in the warm Gulf of America waters off the Texas coast, Arthur brought record rainfall to portions of Louisiana and spawned tornadoes along the Gulf coast. Bertha also formed in the Gulf, originating south of the Florida panhandle before making landfall in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana. “Inland rainfall is a major cause of damage from tropical storms and hurricanes, as Arthur demonstrated,” said NOAA’s National Weather Service Director Ken Graham. “That’s why it’s important to prepare for every storm that’s projected to impact your area, even if it never reaches hurricane strength.”
Factors influencing the Atlantic hurricane season outlook For the remainder of the season, tropical storm activity in the Atlantic basin is expected to be tempered by El Nino conditions, which first emerged in the equatorial Pacific in June. El Nino increases wind shear, which tends to prevent tropical storms from forming or from getting stronger once formed. Other less influential factors include temperatures near average in the Atlantic Ocean and a neutral west African monsoon. “When El Nino emerges, it usually becomes the dominant factor in total hurricane season activity, and this El Nino continues to get stronger every month,” said Matt Rosencrans, lead hurricane season forecaster with NOAA’s National Weather Service.“Compared to a mature El Nino, other mechanisms play a smaller role in determining the number and intensity of tropical storms in the Atlantic basin.”
Hurricane outlooks in other ocean basins Although El Nino tends to limit tropical activity in the Atlantic, it can enhance storm development in the Pacific. NOAA’s outlook for the Eastern Pacific hurricane season remains unchanged with 15-22 named storms, which is above average. So far there have been seven named storms, of which two became hurricanes, including one major hurricane. An above-normal season is also expected in the Central Pacific basin, with 5-13 named storms and tropical depressions.
About NOAA’s Hurricane Season Outlook NOAA’s Hurricane Season Outlook is for overall seasonal activity and is not a landfall forecast. Landfalls are largely determined by short-term weather patterns, which are only predictable within about a week of a storm potentially reaching land. NOAA’s National Hurricane Center (NHC) provides tropical weather outlooks out to seven days in advance, provides track and intensity forecasts for individual storms and issues watches and warnings for specific tropical storms, hurricanes and the associated storm surge.
Why the 2026 hurricane season is so quiet; what it means for NC coast So far the 2026 hurricane season, which started June 1, has been very slow. How slow? It’s the quietest start to a hurricane season this century. Why? For most of this hurricane season, the National Hurricane Center’s online map of the Atlantic basin has been showing a surprising image and message. Nothing with this text superimposed on the map: “Tropical cyclone activity is not expected during the next 7 days.” So far the 2026 season, which started June 1, has been the quietest start to a hurricane season this century. There have only been three named storms so far, and they’ve lasted a combined four days. Tropical Storm Arthur brought significant rain to parts of the Gulf coast and Southeastern United States in mid-June, but only after it dissipated. Tropical Storm Bertha in mid-July also brought rain to parts of the Gulf but didn’t cause much of a ruckus. And Tropical Storm Cristobal in August hung around for about a day in the middle of the Atlantic before petering out. Even a pair of tropical disturbances that held the possibility of forming into something or even combining into a bigger system before hitting the Caribbean in mid-August fizzled out. So what’s going on, and how soon could we see Dolly and Edouard?
The 2026 season is both normal and unusual According to the hurricane center, things aren’t actually that unusual this year. “The first named storm typically forms in mid- to late June, the first hurricane tends to form in early to mid-August, and the first major hurricane forms in late August or early September,” the agency states on its website. The busiest part of hurricane season also runs roughly from mid-August into early October, with the peak day for activity being Sept. 10. But according to another factor, this season is a strange one. The Weather Channel reports that the accumulated cyclone energy, which measures how long storms last and how strong they get, for this hurricane season is unusually low. According to the weather site, the 2026 season is the slowest-starting hurricane season in terms of accumulated cyclone energy since 1998.
Enter El Niño Across the board, meteorologists say the strengthening El Niño in the equatorial Pacific is playing a large role in squashing tropical activity in the Atlantic basin. El Niño is a natural climate pattern in which surface seawater temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific are warmer than normal. Meaning Little Boy in Spanish, El Niño was originally recognized by fishermen off the coast of South America with the appearance of unusually warm water in the Pacific around Christmas. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there’s a nearly 70% chance it could develop into a “super” El Niño, meaning its impacts could be greater than normal. If a super El Niño does develop, it could supercharge weather events across the world. For the U.S. South, which could mean wetter conditions with more heavy rainfall events this fall and winter − bringing much-needed relief to the ongoing drought situation in much of the Tar Heel State. In a world already cooking hotter than normal thanks to climate change, the weather pattern also could amplify extreme heat already baking much of the world. According to the World Meteorological Organization, 2025 was the third warmest year on record, only trailing 2024 and 2023, with sea-surface temperatures also setting records despite cooling La Niña weather patterns. El Niño can have a significant impact on the severity of the hurricane season in both the Atlantic and the Pacific. In the Atlantic, the weather pattern tends to reduce activity in the tropical Atlantic by bringing on stronger upper-level wind shear and sinking air, hindering the formation of tropical weather systems, while having the opposite effect and boosting activity in the Pacific. The Northwest Pacific has already seen three Category 5 storms this season, and in the Central Pacific Hurricane Lala just finished lashing Hawaii with 90 mph winds.
What happens now? The latest forecast from Colorado State University is only calling for nine named storms this season, which would be an exceptionally low total, especially given how warm most of the tropical Atlantic is right now. In effect, the Caribbean has largely become a no-go zone for hurricane formation. “That’s a great indication of the power of El Niño, that it can develop in the Pacific, but still have a controlling role in weather patterns half a world away,” said N.C. Assistant State Climatologist Corey Davis. While North Carolina missing out on tropical weather might sound good on paper, it also comes with some other impacts. One of those is a loss of the rainfall such a system would bring to Eastern North Carolina, an area that largely remains in drought or a very dry state as of late August. The region relies on passing tropical weather for much of its summer precipitation that helps farmers and recharges underground aquifers. According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, the Port City had seen 25.3 inches of rain in 2026 as of Aug. 18. That compares to a normal average of nearly 36 inches. “Wilmington averages more than 8 inches of rain in both August and September, and it’s hard to get that much from the sort of spotty showers and storms we’ve seen in recent weeks,” Davis said. “While we certainly don’t wish for anything tropical, some areas could definitely use the rain to make a dent in this drought.” But on the flip side, El Niño normally brings above-average rainfall to the U.S. Southeast in the fall and winter. During the last strong El Niño in 2015, Wilmington has its wettest October on record and fourth-wettest winter, Davis said. “This all feels like a be-careful-what-you-wish-for sort of situation,” he said. “We need the rain now, but we’ll probably be sick of it in a few months.” Tim Armstrong, a meteorologist with the weather service’s Wilmington office, said even with El Niño hindering storm development across much of the tropics, which doesn’t mean Southeastern N.C. is out of the woods for storm development. “There’s still the subtropical Atlantic we have to watch closely,” he said. “El Niño doesn’t affect shear as much outside of the tropics, so a locally grown storm could more easily develop this fall and bring impacts to the Carolinas.” Past examples of these types of storms include Ophelia in 2005 and Diana in 1984. And the unnamed storm that swamped southern New Hanover County and parts of Brunswick County with 20 inches of rain in 2024 was another one of these storms, he added. Officials also continue to stress to coastal residents that even if it appears to be a relatively quiet season, it only takes one storm arriving on your doorstep to make it a terrible hurricane season. “And our own work suggests that it is very difficult to predict that quantity on a year-to-year basis since you are dealing with the statistics are very small numbers,” said Dr. Michael Mann, a meteorologist and scientist at the University of Pennsylvania. “But we do know that there is an increase over time in the maximum intensity of these storms driven by human-caused warming.” Read more » click here
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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
U.S. Open King Mackerel Fishing Tournament October 1st thru 3rd Southport
The U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament has taken place since 1979and is held annually the first week in October. The U.S. Open is one of the largest king mackerel tournaments on the East Coast and part of the SKA (Southern Kingfish Association) Tournament Trail. The tournament now attracts almost 400 boats annually. For more information » click here
Riverfest October 3rd & 4th Wilmington
. . Wilmington’s Riverfest is celebrated in October since 1979 and runs from the foot of Market Street to Cape Fear Community College over a half mile of free familyentertainment. For more information » click here
Sunset at Sunset October 3rd Sunset Beach
Held the first Saturday in October each year, Sunset at Sunset is the Town of Sunset Beach’s Community Block Party. The annual autumn event has been celebrated since 2007, and is scheduled to happen again this year, in front of Ingram Planetarium on Sunset Boulevard in Sunset Beach. For more information »click here
Brunswick County Agricultural Fair and Expo October 21st thru 25th Ash
The first annual agricultural fair and expo. Experience thrilling amusement rides and enjoy our vibrant agricultural and livestock exhibits. For more information » click here
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N.C. Oyster Festival October 17th & 18th Ocean Isle Beach
. .The annual North Carolina Oyster Festival has been taking place since 1978. Come celebrate everything Oyster witha variety of foods, crafts, contests, children’s activities,and musical performances at Mulberry Park in Shallotte. Signature Festival events include theOyster Shucking Contest, Oyster Eating Contest, and Oyster Stew Cook-off. For more information » click here
N.C. Festival by the Sea October 24th & 25th Holden Beach
Hosted by the Holden Beach Merchants Association this annual two-day festival which started in the 1980’s occurs on the last full weekend in October. The festival is kicked off with a parade down the Holden Beach causeway. There is a fishing tournament, horseshoe tournament, and a sandcastle building contest. Vendors provide food, arts and crafts, amusement rides and other activities. There is live musical entertainment both days at the Holden Beach’s Pavilion. For more information » click here
Discover a wide range of things to do in the Brunswick Islands for an experience that goes beyond the beach. For more information » click here.
Calendar of Events Island
HBPOA Labor Day Meeting HBPOA meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 5that Town Hall
Concerts on the Coast Series The Town’s summer concert series calendar has been released! Live performances featuring local musical groups will be held at the Block Q concert venue. It will be on Sunday evenings at 6:30pm from May 24th to September 6th. The concerts are FREE of charge.
Beginning May 24th and continuing through September 6th
Pets are not allowed on the beach strand during the hours of 9am through 5pm
Dog’s need to be on a leash
Owner’s need to clean up after their animals
A Second Helping
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Program to collect food Saturday mornings(8:00am to 10:30am) during the summer at the Beach Mart on the Causeway. . 1) Twenty-second year of the program . 2) Food collections have now exceeded 317,000 pounds . 3) Collections will begin on Memorial Day weekend . 4) Food is distributed to the needy in Brunswick County For more information »click here . Hunger exists everywhere in this country; join them in the fight to help end hunger in Brunswick County. Cash donations are gratefully accepted. One hundred percent (100%)of these cash donations are used to buy more food. You can be assured that the money will be very well spent.
Mail Donations to: A Second Helping
% Sharon United Methodist Church 2030 Holden Beach Road
Supply, NC 28462
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
Paid Parking
Paid parking in Holden Beach Paid parking will be enforced from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily with free parking before and after that time. All parking will use license plates for verification.
Rates Parking rates for a single vehicle in all designated areas will be:
$5 per hour for up to four hours $20 per day for any duration greater than four hours $80 per week for seven consecutive days
Handicap Parking A vehicle displaying a handicap license plate and/or hang tag parked in a designated handicap space is free. Any other parking space will require a parking permit via the app.
Annual Passes Annual permits for the calendar year allow vehicles (this includes low-speed vehicles and trailers) access to designated parking.
$175 for a single vehicle
Passes can be purchased via the app, website or by telephone.
Where to Park Per ordinance, there is no parking on the streets or rights-of-way except in designated parking spaces identified by Pay-to-Park signs. Click here to view an interactive map. The table with authorized parking can be viewed below.
Citations will be issued for:
Parking without an active paid permit in a designated parking area
Parking within 40 feet of a street intersection
Parking in a crosswalk, sidewalk, or pedestrian access ways
Parking blocking a driveway or mailbox
Parking facing opposing traffic
Parking in a no parking zone, or within right-of-way
Parking on any portion of the roadway or travel lane
Parking a non-LSV vehicle in an authorized LSV location
How Do I Pay to Park The Town uses the SurfCAST by Otto Connect Mobile Solution. This is a mobile app downloadable for Apple and Android devices. Download the app today. Users will setup their account, enter their license plate details and pay for parking directly on the app. Alternatively, users can scan the QR Code located on the parking signs to access a secure website.
The Otto Connect customer service team will be available to help via phone and email.
THB Newsletter (06/18/26) OttoView by Otto Connect Just in time for peak beach season, Otto Connect, Inc. has launched a new feature designed to make parking along the coast easier and less stressful for visitors and residents alike. “OttoView by Otto Connect,” is part of the SurfCAST parking system and allows users to check parking availability in real time before heading to the beach. The feature is now available in Holden Beach. For many drivers, finding parking during busy summer weekends can be one of the most frustrating parts of a beach trip. OttoView aims to reduce congestion and save time by showing which lots have open spaces—and which do not—before users arrive. “Instead of circling for a spot, people can now see their options ahead of time and go directly to available parking,” Jim Varner (CEO) said in a statement.
Know before you go: OttoView can be accessed through the SurfCAST website
(https://park.surfcast.ottoconnect.us/), the QRcode link, and will be available soon via mobile app update (“SurfCAST by Otto”) making it easy for visitors to plan from home or on the go.
What OttoView Shows:
A map of the area and locations of all parking lots
Real-time parking availability by location
Estimated availability based on permit turnover
Directions to nearby parking areas
Filters for amenities such as restrooms, handicap spaces, and LSV parking
OttoView is fully integrated into the SurfCAST system and is available at no additional cost.
Solid Waste Pickup Schedule GFL Environmental change in service, the Saturday before Memorial Day till the end of September, trash pickup will be twice a week.
Please note:
Trash carts must be at the street by 6:00 a.m. on the pickup day BAG the trash before putting it in the cart Carts will be rolled back to the front of the house
GFL Refuse Collection Policy GFL has recently notified all Brunswick County residents that they will no longer accept extra bags of refuse outside of the collection cart. This is not a new policy but is stricter enforcement of an existing policy. While in the past GFL drivers would at times make exceptions and take additional bags of refuse, the tremendous growth in housing within Brunswick County makes this practice cost prohibitive and causes drivers to fall behind schedule.
Solid Waste PickupSchedule
starting the Saturday before Memorial Day (May 23rd)twice a week
Recycling
starting after Memorial Day (June 2nd) weekly pick-up
Curbside Recycling – 2026 GFL Environmental is now offering curbside recycling for Town properties that desire to participate in the service. The service cost per cart is $122.93 annually paid in advance to the Town of Holden Beach. The service consists of a ninety-six (96) gallon cart that is emptied every other week during the months of October – May and weekly during the months of June – September. Curbside Recycling Application » click here Curbside Recycling Calendar »click here
Trash Can Requirements – Rental Properties GFL Environmental – trash can requirements Ordinance 07-13, Section 50.08
Rental properties have specific number of trashcans based on number of bedrooms.
*One extra trash can per every 2 bedrooms ..
§ 50.08 RENTAL HOMES. (A) Rental homes, as defined in Chapter 157, that are rented as part of the summer rental season, are subject to high numbers of guests, resulting in abnormally large volumes of trash. This type of occupancy use presents a significantly higher impact than homes not used for summer rentals. In interest of public health and sanitation and environmental concerns, all rental home shall have a minimum of one trash can per two bedrooms. Homes with an odd number of bedrooms shall round up (for examples one to two bedrooms – one trash can; three to four bedrooms – two trash cans; five – six bedrooms – three trash cans, and the like).
Upon Further Review
South Carolina advances parkway project as North Carolina lags A new highway extension planned to add another route connecting North Carolina and South Carolina continues to move ahead, but only for one state department. While the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is facing hurdles on the project, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is making way to begin construction of the Carolina Bays Parkway Extension project. The NCDOT, SCDOT and Federal Highway Administration are working to extend S.C. 31, known as Carolina Bays Parkway, from S.C. 9 in Horry County, South Carolina, to U.S. 17 in Brunswick County. If constructed, the proposed project will result in a new multi-lane full access freeway connecting the states. The SCDOT is responsible for extending the parkway from its current boundary at S.C. 9 in Horry County to the North Carolina state line, roughly five miles. Nearly 15 miles is in Brunswick County, to be funded and built by the NCDOT. Seven different design alternatives have been mulled over for several years. Alternative map 4, which crosses through Hickman’s Crossroads and the Longwood area, was the chosen preferred route in Brunswick County that would eventually dump onto U.S. 17. All seven of NCDOT’s alternative maps for the highway route can be viewed on NCDOT’s website. A NCDOT news release in April 2026 announced Brunswick County residents’ negative feedback and funding challenges pushed the NCDOT to reroute. Project Manager Brian Harding said the NCDOT is crafting new options for the Carolina Bays Parkway Extension project. He previously told the StarNews that existing alternative maps — not including alternative 4 — remain on the table for consideration. “We’re trying to make something that works a little better for the project as a whole, and for the public,” Harding said. SCDOT Director of Media Relations Jennifer Timmons said the SCDOT is also working on a new alternative route to bring the road to a destination near the state line. The route will likely be presented during a public meeting this fall, said Timmons, noting the SCDOT and Horry County remain strongly committed to completing their portion of the project. “At this point, we do not anticipate any significant delays resulting from NCDOT’s decision,” Timmons said. The SCDOT is now working with the Federal Highway Administration to get advanced right of way acquisition approved to expedite and streamline the project. While finalizing required environmental permits, the department will use a $22 million federal earmark dedicated to the right-of-way acquisition. South Carolina’s timeline remains set to complete environmental documents in 2027, begin right of way acquisition in 2027 and start construction in 2029, said Timmons. Though the project schedule is not substantially changed, Timmons said early acquisition ensures funds are obligated before expiring and allows the department to purchase some necessary right of way in advance. “The remainder of the right of way acquisition is expected to begin in 2027, as was always the plan,” Timmons said. “Again, we want to reiterate that this is not unusual and that the project is not experiencing delays.” Unlike South Carolina, Harding said the NCDOT does not have right-of-way or construction funding. This also means no construction or right-of-way acquisition timeline exists for the North Carolina side of the project. “Our funding only carries us through the environmental document planning portion of the project in North Carolina, which doesn’t include the final design,” Harding said. Harding could not say how long it would take to catch up to the SCDOT if the NCDOT were to receive funding for the project, noting the timeline will be dependent on the selected final design. Asked how much longer the alternative route will take, Harding replied they are still working through the process. The public will have a chance to review and provide input on the new design once completed, Harding added. Read more » click here
Corrections & Amplifications
Ocean Isle Beach Terminal Groin
Ocean Isle Beach completed construction of a terminal groin on its east end in April 2022 to help protect the beach immediately behind it. However, this structure has contributed to significant erosion at the east end near Shallotte Inlet by interrupting natural longshore drift, prompting ongoing efforts such as sandbag use to prevent ocean encroachment on properties in that area.
On Holden Beach, the recent volume change rates (May 2024 to November 2024) along the oceanfront shoreline indicated erosion at 12 of the 21 monitoring stations. Similarly, the MHW shoreline change rates indicated a shoreline retreat at 15 of the 21 monitoring stations. The long-term post-construction linear shoreline changes along the Holden Beach oceanfront shoreline indicated landward retreat. However, volumetric changes indicated slight accretion (0.2 cy/ft./yr.) within this area over the long-term period. The shoreline threshold analysis results along the Holden Beach oceanfront shoreline show that the post-construction shoreline change threshold was exceeded at only one monitoring station. This is the first time a threshold has been exceeded at Holden Beach since this annual analysis started in 2022. In addition, the analysis of May 2024 aerial imagery-derived wet/dry line revealed an 885 ft. section of Holden Beach’s inlet shoreline that exceeded the inlet shoreline threshold by a maximum distance of 100 feet. The inlet shoreline threshold on Holden Beach was also exceeded in Year-2. This marks two straight years where this threshold was exceeded.The inlet shoreline recession is believed to likely be attributed to a combination of morphological changes within Shallotte Inlet including the position and orientation of the main channel through Shallotte Inlet and the formation of a flood channel on the inlet shoulder of Holden Beach. Regardless, as stated in the Plan, because the shoreline changes in this area exceeded the threshold over the entire 2-year confirmation period, an assessment of the proper responsive measures will be made through coordination with State and Federal regulatory officials.
East End/Terminal Groin Short Term Mitigation As required by State and Federal permits associated with the Town’s Shoreline and Inlet Management Plan, annual shoreline monitoring identified erosion east of the terminal groin that exceeded established management thresholds. To maintain permit compliance and address localized erosion concerns, the Town implemented a short-term mitigation project consisting of targeted beach nourishment east of the terminal groin.
Project Update
Project completed: May 24, 2026
Sand placed: Approximately 45,000 c/y
Engineer: Coastal Protection Engineering
Contractor: Southwind Construction
Total project cost: $667,696.61
This project, along with the US Army Corps of Engineers – Shallotte Inlet Crossing & Widener Project, placed 70,000 cy of sand east of the terminal groin with another 35,000 cy west of the terminal groin. With this short-term mitigation measure in place, the Town has engaged with Coastal Protection Engineering (CPE) to investigate long-term mitigation plans to prevent any further erosion adjacent to the terminal groin.
Saving homes or beaches? NC faces tough call on seawall ban A new report says placing hardened structures along the N.C. oceanfront could help with chronic erosion woes. But they come with plenty of risk. North Carolina’s love-hate relationship with hardened structures along the oceanfront is heating up. From the Outer Banks in the north to Ocean Isle Beach in the south, many portions of North Carolina’s 320 miles of oceanfront are dealing with erosion woes that are threatening homes, infrastructure and coastal economies. Coastal officials have long complained that the state’s ban, although softened in recent years, on hardened structures along the oceanfront like seawalls and jetties leaves them with few options beyond expensive beach nourishment to deal with the shifting sands. Environmentalists and others say the ban protects the natural beauty and feel of North Carolina’s beaches while reinforcing that there are simply some places that we shouldn’t be developing. They also note that hardened structures often do little but move the erosion woes to other parts of the beachfront. In June 2026, the N.C. Coastal Resources Commission’s Science Panel released its draft report on the effects of hardened structures on the coast. The report, while not taking sides on the state’s four-decade-long ban on permanent structures along the beachfront, is meant to provide guidance for regulators and policymakers as they debate the emotionally charged issue.
How did we get here? North Carolina’s existing rules on oceanfront construction are largely based on using a 30-year setback rule. The thinking was that a 30-year window of sand and dunes in front of a structure would give homeowners and local communities a chance to come up with a long-term solution if the ocean started encroaching on oceanfront properties. But structures these days often last longer than 30 years, and the environmental conditions of the 1970s aren’t the same as those the coast is facing today. Storms are bigger and more powerful than those of last century thanks to climate change, and sea-level rise is increasing. Sea level is expected to rise by a foot or more by 2050 from today’s levels, amplifying the impacts of tidal flooding and storms that aren’t even tropical in nature. As environmental conditions grow more challenging, oceanfront homes are tumbling into the water. In Rodanthe and Buxton on the Outer Banks, more than 30 homes have collapsed since 2020. Closer to Wilmington, sandbags now line stretches of beachfront in North Topsail Beach, Figure Eight Island and Ocean Isle Beach, offering the last line of protection for million-dollar homes.
‘Maintain a cautious approach’ With pressure mounting on officials to come up with some solutions to disappearing beaches, the science panel was asked to look into shoreline management, both in N.C. and other states, and examine the pros and cons of different measures − particularly the use of oceanfront hardened structures. “Recent erosion impacts in several North Carolina oceanfront communities have brought shoreline management issues back to the forefront, prompting questions about whether alternatives to beach nourishment should be considered to address chronic erosion,” states the report. But the science panel makes it crystal clear that hardening the shoreline to prevent the natural movement of beaches and dunes landward will likely lead to, first, a narrower and then likely a disappearing beach in front of the structure. Groins and jetties, while helping the beach adjacent to them, also end up “starving” beach areas downdrift of the structures. The volunteer panel, however, also noted that securing the shoreline could offer coastal communities an economic lifeline. “The panel therefore recommends that North Carolina maintain a cautious approach to any expansion of the use of hardened structuresand that any major reconsideration of the state’s oceanfront management policies include a broad and comprehensive assessment of the physical, ecological, recreational, and economic consequences of expanded use, including consideration of who will likely benefit and who will likely suffer adverse effects, prior to policy modification,” the report states.
Legislators getting involved As erosion threatens more oceanfront properties, infrastructure, and the coast’s vital tourism industry, legislators are taking notice and proposing solutions. A bill working its way through the N.C. General Assembly could permanently change the face of the state’s coast. Senate Bill 1009, would lift the state ban on hardened structures, including seawalls, jetties and terminal groins, low-slung structures built perpendicular to the shoreline that helps trap sand in areas of high erosion, such as near inlets. Proponents of the legislation say times along the coast have changed, and state policy needs to match the new realities that residents, visitors and local officials are dealing with along the oceanfront. While current rules push beach communities to favor nourishment, enhanced dune systems, and other “natural” approaches to shoreline management, some say more permanent and immediate solutions are sometimes required. Beach nourishment isn’t cheap, with even small projects costing millions, and can be a regulatory challenge if you have to find compatible beach sand that is often in short supply. In places like the Outer Banks, officials have said trying to maintain more than 80 miles of beachfront simply isn’t feasible under current rules and regulations. And to be truly effective, nourishments have to be repeated every few years due to natural erosion and storm-related events − heaping more pressure on state and local budgets that already face a lot of funding priorities. Environmentalists and coastal advocates say installing hardened structures to control erosion means picking winners and losers along the oceanfront, since they will end up taking sand from other parts of the beachfront. There also can be environmental impacts, such as the loss of habitat and beaches for nesting sea turtles and shorebirds. Greg “Rudi” Rudolph, a member of the science panel, said there’s no “magic bullet” for North Carolina’s oceanfront erosion issues, with each possible solution carrying pros and cons. He also said many of the shoreline management tools need to be done in conjunction with each other to offer a truly effective long-term solution, such as a groin and periodic nourishment. “There are trade-offs, there are benefits, and there are costs,” Rudolph said. “That’s what makes this so challenging.” Read more » click here
‘150 years of negative impacts’ to New Jersey coast: Corbett In the last six years the Atlantic Ocean has demolished nearly three dozen privately owned oceanfront homes in Buxton and Rodanthe. These collapsed houses represent a broader coastal management challenge, even pushing the commission that makes coastal development rules to reconsider a decades long ban on hardened structures built for erosion control, Dr. Reide Corbett said during a recent talk at Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center on Harker’s Island. A coastal oceanographer and geochemist, Corbett, as of July 16, is the new interim dean of the Thomas Harriot College of Arts and Sciences on East Carolina University’s main campus. He spent the last 14 years as head of the Coastal Studies Institute, or CSI, in Wanchese, led by ECU. His talk was one of five in the “Water/Ways” speaker series last month organized to complement the Smithsonian traveling exhibit with the same name that was on display at the time. “There’s no doubt that we are seeing changes along our shoreline,” and because there’s not just one thing driving coastal change, there’s not one simple solution, Corbett said early in the presentation. “I’ll go ahead and put quotes around ‘solution’ now because I might not do it throughout the entire talk, because a solution to many of these challenges we face is likely only temporary. It’s not going to solve the problem. The process that is driving many of these changes won’t be solved by one thing.”
The process North Carolina’s coast is protected by low-lying sand deposits called barrier islands. These mobile landforms that separate the mainland from the ocean are in constant but slow motion toward the mainland. This natural process is how these islands maintain elevation and width. This is nothing new, “barrier islands have always changed,” Corbett said, but now these mobile landforms are developed. “For better or worse, it is where we are. These coastlines have been changing since there were coastlines. The difference is we have a lot of infrastructure today in the same areas where these coastlines are changing.” The natural process of erosion on the oceanside and growth on the sound side of the island is being exacerbated by increasing sea levels, development associated with population growth, and storm impacts. The National Oceanographic Atmospheric Administration reported a few years ago that sea level is expected to rise 1 to 1.5 feet by 2050. “To put that in perspective, it took the last almost 100 years for sea levels to change 1 foot in coastal North Carolina,” Corbett said. “And from roughly 2000 to 2050, we’ll expect at least an additional 1-to 1.5-foot rise.” That is a significant amount, and “When you look at what sea level is doing based on tide gauges up and down our coast, we are right on track to meet that if not surpass that” projection that he said has a 95% chance of happening. To illustrate, when a house on the Outer Banks gets taken by the ocean, Corbett said the “narrative is ‘often why did people build here? Why would they put their house right there? It’s so vulnerable,’” but when the houses were built in Buxton, for example, in the 1970s and 1980s, there was 100 to 300 feet of beach, or a few dunes, in front at the time. Now, the ocean is on their doorstep. It’s because these shorelines have been eroding for decades, some at 5, 10 or 15 feet per year every year. Then put a storm on top of that, or this past fall, three storms “one after another after another without any time for recovery, and what you end up doing is deflating the beach, dropping the elevation of that beach, removing significant amount of sand because of the energy in the system.” There has been roughly a 1-foot rise in sea level since 1975 at this location, and erosion has continued anywhere from 4 to 8 feet per year there. “You put those two things together and this is what you have,” he said. As Corbett said early in the program, “there’s not going to be a single simple solution for any community” and what may work for one won’t necessarily work for another.
Community questions Communities need to ask themselves what they are trying to protect. “Is it an individual home? Is it a way of life? Is it an economy? Where are we acting? Where is it most vulnerable? What are we trying to protect? And where is that? You can ask ‘why are we trying to protect that?’ as well if you like. How far are we looking out into the future? Because I think that’s important to consider when acting on a potential solution.” What can a community do once it decides on a path forward? There are a handful of options, starting with nothing, which Corbett said isn’t really a response. Some areas can be protected. For example, a living shoreline in an estuary could protect infrastructure. Accommodate the change and that might look like houses being raised or a bridge around a very vulnerable location or leave. “Nobody likes to hear the word ‘retreat’ because it seems like you’re giving up. And I don’t disagree with that,” he said, but the idea is to move out of those most vulnerable locations. Corbett said that hardened structures are “being pointed to a lot today as a way of protection, a solution to the problem. And I think it’s important to recognize the tradeoffs.” In North Carolina, hardened structures have not been used to control erosion in decades, because of a policy in the 1980s and then a law in the early 2000s. Corbett noted on the presentation slide that the state law “prohibits the construction of a permanent erosion control structure in an ocean shoreline, including breakwater, bulkhead, groin, jetty, revetment, seawall or any similar structure. This ban was based on extensive studies and technical data documenting the detrimental impacts of erosion control structures, including 150 years of documented negative impacts of shoreline stabilization on the barrier islands of New Jersey.” The different kinds of hardened structures come with their own sets of problems. A vertical structure like a seawall might protect what’s behind it but will lead to higher erosion rates on either side of the structure and a total loss of recreation beach in front of it, Corbett said. The houses actively crumbling have pressed the Coastal Resources Commission to consider potential changes to its laws on hardened structures and charged its science panel, on which he serves, in February to draft a report on the various types of hardened structures for oceanfront and the advantages and disadvantages of each type. The report was first presented during the commission’s June meeting. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Coastal Management, which carries out the development rules established by the commission, announced that the commission is to hear an update on the report during the Aug. 26-27 meeting in Manteo. But with all those responses, “I think it’s important to recognize that the processes aren’t changing,” Corbett said. Buxton has three terminal groins that were built in the 1960s that have deteriorated, and the narrative suggests that the deterioration and large holes in the structure farthest south has led to significant erosion. “My argument is, it’s not just that. It’s an erosional system. There’s a lot of data to show that even with these groins, there’s a reason we moved the lighthouse,” said Corbett, referring to the Cape Hatteras Light, which was moved in 1999 a distance of 2,900 feet from where it was built in 1870 because of its proximity to the waves. “It wasn’t a stable system. And those groins have been there since the late ’60s. And so, this is an eroding system. And it’s been eroding regardless of whether those groins were there or not. And it will continue to erode whether we rebuild those groins or not.” Nourishment does protect but is a temporary solution. It’s not changing the process causing the erosion. Beach nourishment is when sand is taken from a borrow area and pumped onto the beach. The amount of time the new sand lasts on the shoreline is no longer projected to be seven years. Now the project planners are calculating for five years. But that’s not long enough either. The sand from a 2022 beach nourishment in Buxton only lasted two years until more was needed. Corbett’s hypothesis is that nourishment projects are causing the shoreface to steepen 15 to 20 feet from the shoreline. He said he was considering looking further into this untested theory to see if the nourishment areas are becoming more vulnerable. Data available on coastsat.space, which uses satellite imagery to map ocean shorelines, shows how the beach is changing and responding to a beach nourishment project. For south Nags Head, the first nourishment project was in late 2011 or 2012, and data shows that after nourishment, the erosion rate became significantly faster. “You place a lot of sand on the beach, it’s unnatural. Yes, it provides a wider beach, but you also increase that erosion rate,” Corbett said. “I’m not saying this isn’t protecting infrastructure” but it doesn’t stop the process. “Nourishment is a Band-Aid for that real physical process of erosion. It hasn’t slowed the process. It is a temporary solution that has to continue. You don’t do a single nourishment, you develop a nourishment program,” he said. “It’s $20 million today. It’s $20 million in five years.” Ultimately, Corbett said communities need to decide what they want to protect and if they’re willing to accept the tradeoff. Read more » click here
Odds & Ends
Contiguous US breaks its record for hottest month ever, NOAA says The contiguous United States sizzled to its hottest month ever last month, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. July averaged 76.89 degrees Fahrenheit (24.94 degrees Celsius) across the Lower 48 states, eclipsing the Dust Bowl’s July 1936 by an eighth of a degree. Records go back to 1895. “It’s not good when you’re breaking records from the Dust Bowl, which we are in this case,” said meteorologist Jeff Masters of Yale Climate Connections. “And that was a crazy sort of situation where you put tens of millions of people in motion. You had this great migration because of the drought and the heat that hit the center of the U.S. — just a cataclysmic event in U. S. history. If we’re exceeding records from The Dust Bowl, that says that we’re in deep trouble.” Although it was unusually cool in Alaska, hotter-than-normal conditions blanketed the Lower 48, with the most excessive heat in the Mountain West, Southwest, Northern Plains and Southeast. The heat was so widespread that every one of the Lower 48 states was at least 1 degree Fahrenheit (nearly 0.6 degrees Celsius) warmer than the 20th century average, said Russ Vose, chief of monitoring at NOAA’s National Center for Environmental Information. The heat in the Dust Bowl years was more concentrated in parts of the Midwest and was aggravated by agricultural practices at the time, Vose said. What’s happening now is due to the burning of coal, oil and gas, scientists said. “Extremely high temperatures across the continental U.S. this summer, along with intense drought and fire conditions, are absolutely consistent with the climate change signal,’ said Katharine Jacobs, a climate scientist at the University of Arizona. The biggest driver of the record heat was nighttime lows that smashed the old mark for hottest minimums by 0.7 degrees, NOAA said. Hotter nights are a classic sign of human-caused climate change, according to scientists and several studies in peer-reviewed literature. NOAA’s calculation is based on averaging 24 hours of temperature, not just highs or lows. “If you’re talking heat waves, that nighttime low is incredibly important for determining total heat stress,” Masters said. “So if it doesn’t cool off at night, your body doesn’t have time to readjust to all the heat.” As nighttime temperatures increase, more people die and lose sleep, studies show. The years 2021 and 1936 tie for America’s hottest summer, which is June through August. Through July, 2026 is a shade cooler than 2021, which was powered by record heat in June. Because of climate change, Masters said, “this may be one of the coolest years we’re gonna experience for the rest of our lives.” What’s needed, Masters said, is “to stop burning so many fossil fuels. We also need to be spending money to adapt to the new climate that we’ve put in place.” Read more » click here
July was the hottest month in the US since records began in 1895 July was the hottest month ever recorded in the United States, according to data released Monday by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The month featured long, intense heat domes that led to record hot temperatures from the East Coast to the Plains and Southwestern states. NOAA’s temperature records date back to 1895. By the end of the month, large wildfires were burning in the Pacific Northwest and Canada, mirroring what has been taking place in Europe, which is having its hottest summer on record. July’s average temperature in the Lower 48 states was 3.3 degrees Fahrenheit above the 20th-century average, NOAA reported. This was about 0.1 to 0.2 degrees warmer than July 1936 and July 2012 — the previous record holders — NOAA stated. July tends to be the hottest month of the year in most of the US. More than 600 monthly records for highest maximum and minimum temperatures have been set this year in July across the US. There were fewer than 50 monthly records set on the cool side for temperatures. In any given month those should average out to be even. Climate change due to the burning of fossil fuels has altered this pattern. One feature of the July weather pattern in the US was a seemingly endless series of heat domes that popped up in different parts of the country depending on the contortions of the jet stream. Heat domes act like a lid on a pot, trapping and enhancing hot air beneath them. The jet stream is a narrow corridor of fast-moving air at about 30,000 feet above the Earth’s surface, and it plays a key role in steering and providing energy for weather systems. Long-term, human-caused climate change is making heat waves more intense, longer-lasting and more likely to occur. Last month saw an intense heat wave that enveloped the eastern half of the country through the July 4th holiday weekend, with subsequent rounds of extreme heat that hit after that as well. Above average temperatures stretched across the entirety of the Lower 48 states, with 13 states having monthly average temperatures that ranked in their top-5 warmest Julys. Wyoming had its hottest July and hottest month of any month on record. No state had a ranking near or below average for the month, NOAA found. July has been warming especially rapidly during the past few decades. According to Climate Central, a research and communications nonprofit, in 229 US cities, July temperatures have climbed an average of 2.6 degrees since 1970, with the highest rates of warming occurring in cities in the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest. Cities that had their warmest Julys include Denver and Salt Lake City, as the Intermountain West had the most significant heat compared to average last month. But many cities across the country had a month that ranked in the top-5 warmest, including Miami, L.A. and Minneapolis. In addition to long-term climate change, a rapidly intensifying El Niño event in the tropical Pacific Ocean is also beginning to be a factor in elevating global average sea and air temperatures and may have played a supporting role in increasing July’s air temperatures across the US. However, studies showed that individual heat waves that struck the country were more connected to climate change plus the natural variability of weather systems than El Niño. July’s extreme heat was not limited to the US, as much of Europe saw multiple heat waves that led to wildfire outbreaks at the end of the month and into early August in Spain, France, the UK, Greece and other countries. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, Western Europe has had its hottest first two months of summer on record so far. Read more » click here
This and That
Water Alert
THB Newsletter (07/17/26)
Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions
Due to the Exceptional Drought conditions, Brunswick County will remain under the Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning but will make slight changes to the MANDATORY restrictions list to allow for the use of automated irrigation systems once a week only (see below). This limited schedule would apply to automatic sprinkler systems for residential and commercial lawn and landscape irrigation.
Brunswick County will continue to monitor the drought conditions and water use to determine whether any changes to the Stage 3 Mandatory Restrictions (including the new limited irrigation schedule) may become necessary.
Stage 3 MANDATORY Water Restrictions Now In Effect — Use Water Wisely
Current Water Conservation Alert Level:
Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions
As of July 10, 2026, Brunswick County has moved to a Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions until further notice due to worsening drought conditions. Under Stage 3, all automated outdoor irrigation is prohibited. There are certain exemptions for commercial power washing and commercial car washing. Full details about all restrictions and fees are outlined on this webpage.
Nearly a third of Brunswick County is now under an Exceptional Drought (D4), which is the highest tier of drought possible.Under the Stage 3 alert level, Brunswick County Public Utilities water customers are required to adjust their water usage habits by following the MANDATORY water usage adjustments.
Brunswick County is monitoring water usage for all water customers using the County’s public water system and is issuing penalties for violations.This applies to all water customers, including wholesale customers, residents, businesses, new developments, etc. Learn more about the Stage 3 non-compliance penalties and fees below.
Brunswick County is actively monitoring the drought conditions and customers’ water usage to determine whether a Stage 4 Water Shortage Warning with Mandatory Restrictions may become necessary. In Stage 4, most outdoor irrigation methods are prohibited and penalties for non-compliance will increase.
Stage 3 Water Shortage Alert: Addressing Water Usage Questions
PUBLIC NOTICE Brunswick County appreciates the cooperation and commitment of our water customers who have taken diligent steps to follow the Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions and the local burn ban while Exceptional Drought (D4) conditions are affecting our county. Exceptional Drought (D4) is the highest tier of drought possible on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale.
Your efforts to limit irrigation and other non-essential uses of water in and around your property are making a significant impact on protecting our water resources and public safety during this Exceptional Drought period. Thank you for helping spread out the demands on our public water system.
Addressing Questions About Water Usage Under Stage 3 Restrictions Brunswick County has received some questions about allowed water usage under Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions that we wish to clarify for customers. Thank you for your questions and patience as we work together to help conserve water during this Exceptional Drought period.
Can I fill my pool under Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions? The filling of family, public, or private swimming pools, including wading pools, hot tubs, spas, and whirlpool tubs, is prohibited, except for:
Health and rehabilitative purposes as prescribed by a medical doctor or administered by a medical facility (documentation of fill dates to be provided upon request);
The minimal amount of make-up water necessary to maintain a pool’s structural integrity and filtration system (documentation to be provided upon request); and
The minimal amount of water required to initially fill a pool to meet the manufacturer’s or designer’s requirements for structural integrity. The filling of the pool must be scheduled with Brunswick County Utilities during a minimal demand time. Contact Brunswick County Public Utilities to schedule via email at utilityadmin@brunswickcountync.gov.
Can irrigation companies and licensed inspectors test irrigation systems under Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions? Yes, irrigation companies and licensed inspectors performing home irrigation inspections can run irrigation systems for up to five (5) minutes for testing. Please provide an invoice or other documentation (inclusive of the inspection date) to the property owner in the event their account is flagged for non-compliant irrigating.
Can I irrigate recently installed sod under Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions? Automated outdoor irrigation can be used for maintaining newly installed landscapes, lawns, and erosion control projects that are under a written warranty and that were initiated prior to the issuance of the Extreme Drought Advisory on June 26, 2026, not to exceed the minimum rate necessary on the day of installation and for 28 days following installation, by means designed and operated to maximize water use efficiency and to prevent run-off and excessive watering. Documentation verifying the installation date (inclusive of digitally date-stamped photos, the warranty, receipts with installation address, name, and phone number, etc.) must be provided via email to Brunswick County at utilityadmin@brunswickcountync.gov, and an approval email from Brunswick County must be received and kept in possession prior to irrigating.
Who is affected by these Stage 3 MANDATORY Water Restrictions? This Stage 3 MANDATORY Alert affects all customers of the following public water systems:
Brunswick County Public Utilities Customers (see paragraph below for more details)
Bald Head Island Utilities Customers
Holden Beach Utilities Customers
Oak Island Utilities Customers
Ocean Isle Beach Utilities Customers
Brunswick County Public Utilities provides water service in unincorporated portions of Brunswick County as well as the following communities: Boiling Spring Lakes, Bolivia, Calabash, Carolina Shores, Caswell Beach, Navassa, Northwest, Sandy Creek, Shallotte, Southport, St. James, Sunset Beach, and Varnamtown.
Utilities customers of Bald Head Island, Holden Beach, Oak Island, and Ocean Isle Beach are under the same restrictions since these utilities receive their water from Brunswick County Public Utilities.
Who is NOT affected by these Stage 3 MANDATORY Water Restrictions? This Stage 3 MANDATORY Alert does NOT apply to properties that use water sources outside of the County’s public water system.
Brunswick County Public Utilities does NOT have the authority to restrict, meter, or penalize water usage from private water sources such as:
Private groundwater wells
Retention ponds
Brunswick Regional – H2GO’s water system. Customers of Brunswick Regional – H2GO should check their website for information about any water conservation or best practices they may have issued for their customers: h2gonc.gov
Note: Many new developments, businesses, and golf courses irrigate using highly treated reclaimed water and other water sources outside of the County’s public water system. (St. James, Winding River, Sea Trail, and Sandpiper Bay golf courses use reclaimed water. Other golf courses use wells and ponds for irrigation.)
Why is Brunswick County Public Utilities under more strict restrictions than other utility systems? Every utility system has their own Water Shortage Response Plan that they follow to determine when to issue voluntary or mandatory water alerts. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor map released on July 9, 2026, Brunswick County is currently under Exceptional Drought (D4) conditions, which is the highest tier possible on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale.
When Brunswick County issued a Stage 2 Mandatory Water Conservation Alert on June 26, 2026, a majority of Brunswick County was under Extreme Drought (D3) conditions. Nearly a third of Brunswick County is now under Exceptional Drought (D4) conditions, which is contributing significantly to the increase in irrigation demands and may impact the availability of source water from the Cape Fear River.
Where can I find more information about Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions? A full list of MANDATORY water usage adjustments and any exceptions can be found online at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise.
Community members and property owners who have questions should contact their water service provider directly or Brunswick County Public Utilities at utilityadmin@brunswickcountync.gov or through our temporary call center. Call center information can be found at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise. For more information » click here
Due to this drought classification, Brunswick County remains under the Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning but has updated the MANDATORY restrictions list to allow for the use of automated irrigation systems twice a week only.
Properties with odd-numbered addresses (ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) and non-addressed facilities may irrigate anytime during the following 8-hour periods:
From 8 PM on Tuesday through 4 AM Wednesday
From 8 PM on Saturday through 4 AM Sunday
Properties with even-numbered addresses (ending in 2, 4, 6, 8, 0) may irrigate anytime during the following 8-hour periods:
From 8 PM on Wednesday through 4 AM Thursday
From 8 PM on Friday through 4 AM Saturday
This limited schedule would apply to automatic sprinkler systems for residential and commercial lawn and landscape irrigation.
Brunswick County is monitoring several factors to determine when changes to the current water restriction stage might be applied. These factors include the overall daily water usage, weather forecasts, rainfall amounts, drought conditions, and the future drought designation from the U.S. Drought Monitor.
With Brunswick in extreme drought, what it’ll take to ease water woes Despite multiple rainfalls over the last month, data shows Brunswick County’s critical drought conditions remains with the sizzling summer heat. Brunswick County is staying in the highest level of drought according to the most recent update from the North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council (NCMDAC), according to a recent news release from the county. Brunswick has been classified as an Exceptional Drought (D4) county since July 9, the highest tier on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale. The county first announced a stage one water conservation alert on June 9. County officials moved to a mandatory stage two water conservation alert on June 26, restricting irrigation from specific days and times for residents using public water. By July 10, the county jumped to stage three water shortage warning with mandatory restrictions due to nearly a third of Brunswick being classified under an Exceptional Drought. That day, county officials began prohibiting automated outdoor irrigation and pool filling for Brunswick County Public Utilities water customers.
Where Brunswick compares to other counties in North Carolina Most of the state is still in moderate to severe drought, with Brunswick experiencing the worst drought conditions, according to a Aug. 6 North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) news release. Rain was hit or miss in the Wilmington area during the first week of August, with just above three inches of rainfall in Wilmington but only 0.71-inches around Longwood, as stated in a Aug. 4 drought update on the NCMDAC website. As of Aug. 6, most of Brunswick remains under severe and exceptional drought conditions. “A rainy July brought steady improvements in drought conditions across most of North Carolina. Groundwater and reservoir levels have been slower to recover. It’s only the beginning of August so we expect higher temperatures and increased water demand for at least another month,” said Klaus Albertin, chair of the NCMDAC and NCDEQ Water Resources engineer.
Nearly 20 inches of rain is needed to catch up This is the driest the county has been in 15 years, according to the Drought scale. The NOAA Drought Termination and Amelioration map shows the Wilmington area, including Brunswick, needing roughly 17 more inches of rainfall to end the drought by Sept. 9. National Weather Service Meteorologist Jordan Baker said the Wilmington area has a daily rainfall average of .24 inches during this time of year — typically because of tropical systems. Though the Wilmington area has had roughly 11.35 inches of rain in the last month, Baker said southern Brunswick has only had 4.17 in the last month and is already running in a water deficit. A deficit can increase quickly when there is no rain for one or more days at this time of year, Baker said. “We definitely need the rain, but when it comes in thunderstorms and scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon, it misses a lot of different places,” Baker said.
Water restrictions still stand for Brunswick Under the county’s Stage 3 limited irrigation schedule, water customers may only water lawns and landscaping with automatic irrigation systems less than one inch of water per week, between the hours of 8 p.m.-4 a.m. on designated days. There are certain exemptions for commercial power washing and commercial car washing. Full details about the restrictions and fees can be found on the county website. Residents who have questions should contact their water service provider directly or Brunswick County Public Utilities at 910-253-2657 or utilityadmin@brunswickcountync.gov.
Funding available for impacted small businesses The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in North Carolina to offset economic losses caused by a drought beginning on April 28. The disaster declaration covers numerous counties, including Brunswick, Columbus, New Hanover and Pender counties. Dillon and Horry counties in South Carolina were also listed. Under the declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and private nonprofit organizations — including faith-based organizations — with financial losses directly related to the drought. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises. The loan amount and terms are on each applicant’s financial condition. Loans can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for private nonprofit organizations, with terms of up to 30 years. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills which could not be paid due to the drought. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Jan. 19, 2027. To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services. Read more » click here
THB Newsletter (08/17/26)
Brunswick County Moves from Stage 3 to Stage 2 Water Restrictions
Due to encouraging trends in drought conditions, water usage and system demands, Brunswick County has moved from a Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning to a Stage 2 Mandatory Water Conservation Alert. Under Stage 2, some water restrictions are reduced or removed and the automatic irrigation schedule is expanded.
Stage 2 – Key Reminders & Main Restrictions
This is a select list of some of the main differences under a Stage 2 Mandatory Water Conservation Alert. See the full list on the website at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise.
Automated outdoor irrigation days are increased. Under this Stage 2 Irrigation Schedule, water customers may only water lawns and landscaping with automatic irrigation systems (spray irrigation, drip irrigation, etc.) less than one inch of water per week, between the hours of 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. on their designated days.
Properties with odd-numbered addresses (ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) and non-addressed facilities may irrigate anytime during the following 8-hour periods:
From 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday through 4:00 a.m. Wednesday
From 8:00 p.m. on Thursday through 4:00 a.m. Friday
From 8:00 p.m. on Saturday through 4 a.m. Sunday
Properties with even-numbered addresses (ending in 2, 4, 6, 8, 0) may irrigate anytime during the following 8-hour periods:
From 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday through 4:00 a.m. Thursday
From 8:00 p.m. on Friday through 4:00 a.m. Saturday
From 8:00 p.m. on Sunday through 4:00 a.m. Monday
The installation of sod is not recommended while under the Stage 2 mandatory irrigation schedule and water restrictions.
Power Washing: The use of water for power washing buildings and other structures is prohibited except by licensed commercial businesses and when necessary to meet federal, state, and local public health and safety requirements.
Washing Impervious and Paved Surfaces: The use of water for washing impervious and paved surfaces is prohibited, except for using the minimum rate necessary for sanitation and public health purposes; and prewashing in preparation for painting, recoating, or sealing.
Washing or cleaning mobile equipment including automobiles, trucks, boats and fleet vehicles with a hand-held hose with an automatic shutoff device using less than five gallons per vehicle is allowed. See the full list of requirements for Buildings, Vehicles, and Pavement on the county’s website at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise.
The filling of family, public, or private swimming pools, including wading pools, hot tubs, spas, and whirlpool tubs, is prohibited, except for:
Health and rehabilitative purposes as prescribed by a medical doctor or administered by a medical facility (documentation of fill dates to be provided upon request);
The minimal amount of make-up water necessary to maintain a pool’s structural integrity and filtration system (documentation to be provided upon request); and
The minimal amount of water required to initially fill a pool to meet the manufacturer’s or designer’s requirements for structural integrity.
A full list of MANDATORY water usage adjustments and any exceptions, as well as penalties (fees) for violations, can be found online at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise.
Turtle Watch Program –
Turtle Watch Program – 2026
. .
The first nest of the 2025 season was on May 21st
Average annual number of nests is 45
Current nest count –(75) as of 08/22/26
Members of the patrol started riding the beach every morning on May 1 and will do so through October looking for signs of turtle nests. For more information » click here.
Record turtle nesting season underway at Holden Beach — if the heat doesn’t derail it
Volunteers say rising temperatures could affect sea turtle sex ratios over time Volunteers with the Holden Beach Turtle Watch Patrol are seeing record-setting nest counts this summer even as relentless July heat raises concerns about hatchling survival and the people spending nights on the sand to protect them. Much of the work happens while most beachgoers sleep. On a recent overnight shift, a small patrol crew raked the beach smooth and posted nest signage, routine prep that helps volunteers spot fresh tracks at first light and identify new nests that need to be marked and monitored.
Nest numbers up sharply from last year Steve McNeil, the patrol’s project coordinator, said the season has already eclipsed last year’s total. “Last year we had 35-26 nests, this year, we’re already up to 69,” McNeil said. The heat is taking a toll across the beach, McNeil said — including on volunteers and visitors. “The heat impacts a lot of people, even the vacationers, a lot of people saying it’s just too hot to be out here,” he said.
Heat can shift turtle sex ratios Patrol members say the temperature of the sand does more than make the work uncomfortable: It can influence the sex of the hatchlings. Sand above 85 degrees increases the likelihood of female hatchlings, a concept volunteers sum up with a beachside saying: “Hot chicks, cool dudes.” Deva Tucker, the patrol’s president, said prolonged heat without rain could skew those ratios over time. “It’s gonna be hotter, deeper without the rain to bring some cool air and bring some cooler temperatures in, it can definitely sway the ratio of male to female and over the years that definitely could be a problem if you have more females,” Tucker said.
Cooked eggs a documented concern Donna McGowan, who has volunteered with the patrol for 17 years, said extreme heat could produce troubling findings during nest excavations. “It’s very troublesome when you go in to excavate and inventory, and you see some unhatched eggs, and you open it, and it looks like it’s been cooked,” McGowan said. She said the patrol has not seen that so far this season. Volunteers sometimes relocate nests if they are laid in vulnerable areas — such as below the tide line — or if a turtle cannot clear a steep escarpment, patrol members said. Otherwise, they leave nests in place and monitor them through the incubation period.
Volunteers say turtles are resilient Volunteer Beth Baker says the turtles’ instincts help them manage conditions that are harder on the humans monitoring them. “Their intuition, their instinct tells them what to do. So they manage somehow. I would say we suffer more than the turtles do, that’s my guess,” Baker said. To learn more about the mission of the Holden Beach Turtle Watch Patrol and how to get involved, click here. Read more » click here
How you can protect sea turtles at NC beaches during nesting season People aren’t the only folks flocking to North Carolina’s beaches as the weather warms up. In the coming weeks, beachgoers could find themselves sharing the sand with mamma sea turtles and shorebirds looking for a spot to start a new family. Already, skimmers, oystercatchers and other birds are vying for space on the sandy spits at the tips of barrier islands like Wrightsville Beach, and North Carolina has already seen one false crawl by a sea turtle even though sea turtle nesting season doesn’t generally start until May 1, according to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. But sharing the beach can be a challenge, with the deck largely stacked against coastal wildlife as the lure of sand and the ocean keeps attracting more and more people to the N.C. coast − never mind the other challenges the animals face in the wild off the beach. Still, officials say following a few simple rules can give the critters a flipper and wing up during their beach visit. “Seeing a sea turtle on the beach is a wonderful, rare experience,” said Terry Meyer, deputy and conservation director at the Karen Beasley Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City. “But just keep a respectful distance while enjoying it.”
One in 1,000 Sea turtle nesting season in North Carolina occurs from May through September. Female sea turtles emerge from the ocean at night, and using their flippers, dig an 18-inch-deep hole that will serve as the nest where she will deposit 80 to 120 eggs. After laying the eggs, she covers the nest and returns to sea. After about a 60-day incubation period, the hatchlings emerge and make their way to the ocean. Only about one in 1,000 hatchlings will live to reproduce. In 2025 North Carolina recorded 1,088 nests, with the first one recorded on Topsail Island on May 8, 2025. The first nest to emerge was a Kemp’s Ridley nest on Ocean Isle Beach on July 10, 2025. The vast majority of North Carolina nests were laid by loggerheads. Green sea turtle nest numbers are slowly increasing in the state, with Tar Heel beaches seeing 58 last year. There also were 10 Kemp’s Ridley nests.
Range of threats Both in the water and on land, sea turtles face a range of threats. In the ocean, dangers range from entanglement in fishing gear to boat strikes to ingesting plastics and other trash. But that’s if the hatchlings even make it off the beach to have a life at sea. “Our No. 1 greatest threat by far is artificial lighting,” Meyer said. She said it’s the biggest concern because the lights can not only disorientate the nesting female as she comes ashore, but also hatchlings as they move toward the brightest light they see when they come out of their nest. In a perfect world, that’s the moon or the stars as they make their way toward the ocean. And it isn’t just exterior lighting that is a problem. Meyer said a recent study found 57% of the light pollution along the Topsail Island beachfront was from interior lights − a major concern since many oceanfront homes don’t have shades or curtains on their ocean-facing windows. Factor in a rotating mix of residents as vacationers cycle on and off the island almost weekly and it’s a constant battle for the turtle volunteers and others to get the message about lighting out there. “We just can’t stay ahead of the light situation,” Meyer said, noting volunteers hand out door hangers warning about the danger of keeping lights on at night and promote the use of turtle-friendly ambient light bulbs for exterior uses instead of traditional bulbs. “It’s definitely a challenge.” Predators like foxes and raccoons along with overanxious tourists eager to see and get selfies with a giant marine reptile that predates the dinosaurs are other challenges nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings can face. Climate change also is a growing concern. On the beach, the warming weather is increasing sand temperatures, which helps determine the sex of hatchlings as the buried eggs incubate. If the beach is warmer than 89 degrees, most of the hatchlings will be female; if it’s cooler more will be male. For a long time, researchers have believed that the cooler beaches in the Carolinas produced males to mate with the female-heavy hatchlings produced by the warmer beaches in Florida and along the Gulf Coast. But what will happen if all the country’s beaches get so warm that the vast majority of hatchlings are female? A warming climate, which scientists are predicting for North Carolina in the coming years, also could impact when sea turtles nest, prompting turtles to lumber ashore earlier than the traditional May start date.
‘Fill in those holes’ The Topsail Turtle Project, run by the sea turtle hospital, monitors the beaches in Topsail Beach, Surf City and North Topsail Beach. With volunteer groups in other beach towns along with federal and state agencies, officials monitor all 330 miles of ocean-facing sandy beaches in N.C. for sea turtle nests, stranded animals and even signs of false crawls. “We want them all counted, all documented,” Meyer said. “We want to know how many turtles we have.” If an injured or stressed sea turtle is found, it often ends up at the sea turtle hospital. As of April 21, the turtle hospital was treating 45 patients − most cold-stun victims from this winter that were slowly being nursed back to health. Kathy Zagzebski, the hospital’s executive director, said during the busy fall and winter season the facility sometimes deals with more than 100 turtles at a time, many cold-stunned animals brought down from New England for treatment. Recovery times can often take several months per turtle. As the weather warms up, the hospital sees fewer turtles being brought in suffering from hypothermia or other temperature-related issues. But the animals that are brought in are often those that have been accidently hooked by a fishermen or hit by a boat. “We usually see fewer turtles, but those that we do see probably require more treatment,” Kathy said. Like Meyer, Zagzebski said just taking a few steps and being considerate can help people and sea turtles better share the state’s coastal environment. “And fill in those holes,” she said, noting that holes dug on the beach can deter mother sea turtles from nesting and prevent hatchlings from reaching the ocean after they emerge from the nest. Read more » click here
The N.C. Sea Turtle Project works with 20 different volunteer groups. Contact information for each is available at nc-wild.org/seaturtles/contacts, or call the statewide sea turtle hotline at 252-241-7367.
How North Carolina sea turtles are faring this summer As the weather warms and the summer season heats up, people and turtles are crowding N.C. beaches. Here are some tips on how everyone can share the coast The height of summer along the N.C. coast means several things: People hitting the beach for a vacation; steaming and sticky temperatures; the occasional pop-up afternoon shower; and female sea turtles lumbering ashore looking for a place to nest. But sharing the beach can be a challenge, with the deck largely stacked against coastal wildlife as the lure of sand and the ocean keeps attracting more and more people to the N.C. coast − never mind the other obstacles sea turtles face in the wild off the beach. While adapted to dealing with soaring temperatures, climate change is another growing challenge the marine reptiles face that could have significant impacts on the species’ future. Here’s a mid-season look at sea turtle nesting in North Carolina, which represents just about the northern range of the animal’s nesting habitat.
Nesting so far in 2026 Sea turtle nesting season in North Carolina occurs from May through September. Female sea turtles emerge from the ocean at night, and using their flippers, dig an 18-inch-deep hole that will serve as the nest where she will deposit 80 to 120 eggs. After laying the eggs, she covers the nest and returns to sea. After about a 60-day incubation period, the hatchlings emerge and make their way to the ocean. Only about one in 1,000 hatchlings will live to reproduce. Through July 2, 2026, North Carolina beaches had been busy,with sea turtles laying 1,054 nests, representing an estimated 36,107 eggs, according to statistics compiled by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. As usual, the vast majority of nests are from loggerheads, with a handful of green and leatherback nests thrown in there. Areas with the most nests were Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Cape Lookout National Seashore, Oak Island, Topsail Island and Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. The first nest, surprisingly a leatherback, was recorded April 28 in Atlantic Beach, Carteret County. In 2025 North Carolina recorded 1,088 nests, with the first one recorded on Topsail Island on May 8, 2025. The first nest to emerge was a Kemp’s Ridley nest on Ocean Isle Beach on July 10, 2025. The state saw 1,385 nests in 2024, and 1,723 nests in 2023. That means 2026 is off to a generally strong start for the turtles, which have federal and state protections − although nest numbers can be highly variable from year to year.
Challenges mother and baby sea turtles face Natural predators and excited, curious humans are some of the challenges turtles face while trying to nest. Officials recommend viewing a sea turtle on the beach from a respectful distance. Nests also are marked to keep humans a safe distance away and often covered in anti-predator cages to prevent foxes, coyotes and raccoons from digging them up. Occasionally, nests also are relocated if they are buried in areas suffering from severe erosion or if threatened from over wash by storms. Even if a mother successfully nests and the hatchling emerge from the sand, the challenges aren’t over. One of the biggest threats baby sea turtles on the beach face is beach lighting. Lights can not only disorientate the nesting female as she comes ashore, but also hatchlings as they move toward the brightest light they see when they come out of their nest. In a perfect world, which should be the moon or the stars as they make their way toward the ocean. And it isn’t just exterior lighting that is a problem. A recent study on Topsail Island found 57% of the light pollution came from interior lights − a major concern since many oceanfront homes don’t have shades or curtains on their ocean-facing windows. Factor in a rotating mix of residents as vacationers cycle on and off the island almost weekly and it’s a constant battle for the turtle volunteers and others to get the message about lighting out there.
How rising temperatures could impact sea turtles Climate change also is a growing concern among turtle researchers. On the beach, the warming weather is increasing sand temperatures, which helps determine the sex of hatchlings as the buried eggs incubate. If the beach is warmer than 89 degrees, most of the hatchlings will be female; if it’s cooler more will be male. For a long time, researchers have believed that the cooler beaches in the Carolinas produced males to mate with the female-heavy hatchlings produced by the warmer beaches in Florida and along the Gulf Coast. But what will happen if all the country’s beaches get so warm that the vast majority of hatchlings are female? A warming climate, which scientists are predicting for North Carolina in the coming years, also could impact when sea turtles nest, prompting turtles to lumber ashore earlier than the traditional May start date.
Tips if you see a nesting sea turtle Here are some recommendations by the state wildlife commission on how beach visitors can help protect sea turtles during nesting season.
Minimize beachfront lighting by turning off, shielding or redirecting lights away from the beach.
Close blinds and curtains in oceanfront rooms at night to keep indoor lighting from reaching the beach.
Remove chairs, umbrellas, beach toys and boats from the beach at night so they don’t interfere with nesting sea turtles or hatchlings.
Use your natural vision and moonlight when walking the beach at night.
If you encounter a sea turtle on the beach, remain quiet and still and observe from a respectful distance.
If you encounter tracks on the beach, leave them alone. Researchers use them to determine the species of nesting turtle and to locate nest sites.
If you come across a sea turtle or a nest, contact the beach’s local sea turtle monitoring organization.
Contact information for the groups is available at nc-wild.org/seaturtles/contacts, or call the statewide sea turtle hotline at 252-241-7367. Read more » click here
North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox » click here
Fauna & Flora » click here Holden Beach recommended plant list – deer resistant & salt tolerant
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ENSO Alert System Status: El Niño Advisory El Niño is strengthening, with a greater than 90% chance of a very strong event during the Northern Hemisphere fall and winter 2026-27. El Niño strengthened over the past month, with sea surface temperature anomalies exceeding +2.0°C in the eastern equatorial Pacific. The July Niño index values were +1.4°C in Niño-3.4, +1.7°C in Niño-3, and +2.9°C in Niño-1+2. The equatorial subsurface temperature index (average from 180°-100°W) increased during July, reflecting a deeper-than-average thermocline. Subsurface temperature anomalies were significant, reaching +10.0°C at depth. Low-level westerly wind anomalies and upper-level easterly wind anomalies extended from the western to east-central equatorial Pacific. Convection and rainfall were enhanced from the central to eastern Pacific and were suppressed over Indonesia. The traditional and equatorial Southern Oscillation indices were significantly negative, with values near 2 standard deviations during July. Collectively, the coupled ocean-atmosphere system reflected a strengthening El Niño. The CPC Official ENSO outlook, which synthesizes multiple models from North America and abroad, indicates El Niño will continue to strengthen through the end of the year. During the October-December 2026 season, there is a 69% chance of a historic event that would exceed the strength of previous El Niño events dating back to 1950 (+2.5°C or more for a 3-month RONI value). With an event of this magnitude, the chances of experiencing impacts consistent with El Niño are larger, but they are not guaranteed (see CPC outlooks for probabilities of seasonal anomalies). In summary, El Niño is strengthening, with a greater than 90% chance of a very strong event during the Northern Hemisphere fall and winter 2026-27. This discussion is a consolidated effort of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), NOAA’s National Weather Service, and their funded institutions. Oceanic and atmospheric conditions are updated weekly on the Climate Prediction Center web site (El Niño/La Niña Current Conditions and Expert Discussions). A probabilistic strength forecast is available here. The next ENSO Diagnostics Discussion is scheduled for 10 September 2026. To receive an e-mail notification when the monthly ENSO Diagnostic Discussions are released, please send an e-mail message to: ncep.list.enso-update@noaa.gov. Read more » click here
El Niño could become strongest on record. What it means for North Carolina A potentially record-breaking El Niño is changing the forecast for the months ahead in North Carolina — including hurricane season and winter. A rapidly strengthening El Niño could become the strongest on record, potentially suppressing Atlantic hurricanes this fall while increasing North Carolina’s chances of a wetter winter after months of drought strained water supplies across the state. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center said Thursday there is a greater than 90% chance of a “very strong” El Niño developing during the fall and winter. Forecasters say there is nearly a 70% chance it reaches an intensity not seen in NOAA records dating to 1950. “We never know exactly what’s going to occur, but in North Carolina during an El Niño, we tend to see wetter weather,” said Lindsey Long, a meteorologist with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “So we can expect more rainfall over North Carolina this winter.”
What is El Niño? El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern that begins in the tropical Pacific Ocean but can alter weather thousands of miles away. Normally, trade winds near the equator push warm surface water westward across the Pacific. During El Niño, those winds weaken, allowing warm water to shift eastward and changing atmospheric circulation. Long said weakening trade winds and pulses of warm water moving across the Pacific are helping this year’s El Niño intensify. NOAA measures El Niño using the Relative Oceanic Niño Index, or RONI, which compares temperatures in a key region of the equatorial Pacific with temperatures across the broader tropical oceans. The measure is designed to better account for the background warming of the world’s oceans. The strongest El Niño in NOAA’s record reached a RONI value of 2.5 degrees Celsius above normal during the 1982-83 event. Long said forecasts indicate this event could reach 2.5 to 2.6 degrees Celsius this winter, potentially setting a new record. July already had the second-highest sea surface temperatures NOAA has recorded in the Niño 3.4 region, Long said.
What could El Niño mean for hurricane season? For the East Coast, a strong El Niño can come with an unusual benefit during hurricane season. El Niño typically increases vertical wind shear over the Atlantic. Those changing winds at different levels of the atmosphere can disrupt developing tropical systems, making it harder for hurricanes to organize and strengthen. “For hurricanes, that’s kind of a killer,” Long said. “The winds in upper levels just destroy the structure of the hurricane, and so they can’t really get going.” Long said that effect is already contributing to relatively quiet Atlantic activity this August, despite very warm Atlantic waters that would otherwise be favorable for storms. El Niño does not eliminate the threat of hurricanes or guarantee North Carolina will avoid a landfall. It shifts the odds toward less overall Atlantic activity.
Could El Niño help North Carolina’s drought? The effects could continue long after hurricane season ends. El Niño tends to favor wetter-than-normal conditions across the southern United States during winter, including North Carolina. That could be particularly significant this year. North Carolina experienced its second-driest January through June on record, with rainfall nearly 9 inches below normal. Earlier this summer, low reservoirs and other water supply concerns prompted mandatory conservation measures in several communities. Long said a wetter winter could help ease some of that pressure, although there is no guarantee. “I know that you guys have had a very severe drought that’s been long-lasting, so hopefully this will help decrease that burden on the water supply,” Long said. “But again, no guarantee, but it does greatly increase the odds that we’ll see some wetter weather.” More precipitation could also mean more opportunities for snow or ice if storms coincide with sufficiently cold temperatures. “I would say the odds are higher for winter weather, just because of increased chances for precipitation,” Long said.
Record strength doesn’t guarantee record impacts Even if this El Niño becomes the strongest measured by NOAA, that does not mean North Carolina will experience record impacts. Each El Niño develops differently, and the phenomenon changes the probability of certain weather patterns rather than determining exactly what will happen in a particular place. Long said NOAA’s forecast should be viewed as an opportunity to prepare for a potentially wetter season while continuing to follow shorter-term forecasts as winter approaches. The event is also developing amid unusually warm oceans globally, but scientists are still studying exactly how human-caused climate change may alter El Niño and La Niña. NOAA expects El Niño to continue strengthening through the fall and peak during the coming winter. Read more » click here
Storm Events
Hurricane Vehicle Decals Property owners were provided with four (4) decals that were included in there water bill.It is important that you place your decalsin your vehicle or in a safe place. A $10 fee will be assessed to anyone who needs to obtain either additional or replacement decals. Decals will not be issued in the 24-hour period before an anticipated order of evacuation.
The decals are your passes to get back onto the island to check your property in the event that an emergency would necessitate restricting access to the island. Decals must be displayed in the driver side lower left-hand corner of the windshield, where they are not obstructed by any other items. Officials must be able to clearly read the decal from outside the vehicle.
Property owners without a valid decal will not be allowed on the island during restricted access. No other method of identification is accepted in an emergency situation. Click here to visit the Town website to find out more information regarding decals and emergency situations.
NC General Statute 166A-19.22 Power of municipalities and counties to enact ordinances to deal with states of emergency.
Synopsis – The governing body may impose by declaration or enacted ordinance, prohibitions, and restrictions during a state of emergency. This includes the prohibition and restriction of movements of people in public places, including imposing a curfew; directing or compelling the voluntary or mandatory evacuation of all or part of the population, controlling ingress and egress of an emergency area, and providing for the closure of streets, roads, highways, bridges, public vehicular areas. All prohibitions and restrictions imposed by declaration or ordinance shall take effect immediately upon publication of the declaration unless the declaration sets a later time. The prohibitions and restrictions shall expire when they are terminated by the official or entity that imposed them, or when the state of emergency terminates.
Violation – Any person who violates any provisions of an ordinance or a declaration enacted or declared pursuant to this section shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.
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Flood Insurance Program For more information » click here
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On February 3, 2026, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to September 30, 2026.
Congress must now reauthorize the NFIP
by no later than 11:59 pm on September 30, 2026.
Homeowners Insurance For more information » click here
Homeowners are paying much more for insurance —
and keeping coverage is getting harder Homeowners insurance costs are swelling rapidly for consumers — and even for those able to pay, policies are getting harder to keep as insurers drop customers at a higher rate, according to a new industry report. Average premiums for homeowners insurance rose faster than inflation across all major regions of the country from 2018 to 2024, according to a report released Wednesday by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, a group that represents state insurance regulators. Consumers saw their average premiums rise by 18% in the Northeast, 25% in the Midwest, 27% in the Southeast and 43% in the West over that seven-year period, even after accounting for inflation, according to the report, which broke out data across four regional zones. Average premiums were highest in the Southeast, at $1,818 per year in 2024, while those in the Northeast were lowest at $1,396, NAIC said. Premiums have risen another 7% since the beginning of 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ producer price index. The index doesn’t necessarily reflect consumers’ out-of-pocket costs, but provides a proxy for the movement of premiums over time, according to the National Association of Realtors. The report, compiled with data from state insurance agencies, was the group’s first comprehensive data analysis of the homeowners insurance market in several years, NAIC officials said. Climate change, rising home rebuilding costs and other factorshave driven up financial risk for insurers, who are passing that financial burden on to consumers, at least in part, insurance experts said. Meanwhile, the dynamic is straining homeowners amid a broader affordability crunch and a U.S. inflation rate that has been above policymakers’ target for more than five years. People’s ability to afford a home is about 10% lower than it would otherwise be if insurance costs had remained stable since the late 1990s, according to NAR. The expense disproportionately burdens low-income households, who are more likely to drop their coverage altogether — and put their house, often their largest financial asset, at risk if disaster strikes, said Peter Kochenburger, an insurance expert and a visiting professor of law at Southern University Law Center. “It’s a big problem,” Kochenburger said of rising costs for consumers. The NAIC analysis also showed that insurers are dropping customers at elevated rates, opting not to renew their policies when their terms expire. This generally happens when an insurer thinks the risk outweighs their profit potential, Kochenburger said. Nonrenewal rates per 1,000 in-force policies have increased across the country since 2018, by anywhere from 96% in the Southeast to 216% in the West, NAIC found. These nonrenewals are those initiated by insurance companies. There were 103 million homeowners insurance policies in force in the U.S. as of 2024, according to NAIC. “The data tells the story of a homeowners insurance market that is overall operationally robust but nonetheless under pressure and exhibiting signs of stress,” the report’s co-authors, Jeffrey Czajkowski and Paula Harms, wrote. “These trends support consumer sentiment that coverage is becoming more expensive and harder to find or keep in some places,” they wrote.
Why homeowners insurance costs are rising The report’s findings broadly echo those of other analyses in recent years. The U.S. Treasury Department, for example, said in a report last year that average premiums per policy increased 8.7% faster than the rate of inflation from 2018 to 2022. A poll conducted this year by the Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan research group, found that 42% of homeowners said their costs had gone up “a lot” in recent years. Consumers generally buy homeowners insurance as a form of financial protection against unexpected physical damage to their house. Mortgage lenders also often require prospective homebuyers to buy such an insurance policy to secure a loan. If homeowners insurance becomes too pricey for consumers, there could be a “cascading or domino effect” in the U.S. economy — for example, if fewer people choose to buy homes, Kochenburger said. He said he thinks climate risk is the main driver of rising premiums. Climate change has fueled an increase in the number — and intensity — of severe weather events like wildfires, hurricanes, droughts and floods. The dynamic increases the likelihood that policyholders will need to file insurance claims and the odds that those claims will be for higher amounts, experts said. The number of weather and climate disasters that caused more than $1 billion in damage increased more than fivefold from 2018 through 2022, compared with the 1980s, after adjusting for inflation, according to the Treasury Department. “Catastrophic risk — these hurricanes, wildfire, severe convective storms, winter storms — these are events that are happening more and more frequently,” Czajkowski, director of the NAIC Center for Insurance Policy and Research, told CNBC in an interview. “And they’re impacting consumers.” The elevated risk comes as the Trump administration has moved to dismantle the federal government’s efforts to fight climate change and reduce planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions. While those natural disasters are more obvious in certain parts of the country — wildfires in the West and hurricanes in the Southeast, for example — weather-related risks are growing throughout the country, Kochenburger said. “Hail is a significant source of property damage, and that occurs in a number of states that don’t have much coastal exposure,” he said, as an example. However, factors beyond climate risk also contribute to higher insurance costs. For example, inflation has increased the cost of repairing and rebuilding homes, thereby raising the amount insurers pay out when policyholders file an insurance claim, experts said. Replacement costs for property and casualty-related losses increased by 45%, on average, between 2020 and 2023, according to the Treasury Department. Homeowners insurance is a type of property and casualty insurance. The NAIC data may even undersell the scope of the issue. For one, since the report only breaks out costs by regional zones, it’s “likely” that there are smaller, local areas where premiums have risen much faster than a particular region, according to the NAIC report. It’s also “quite possible” policyholders reduced coverage to blunt the impact of rising premiums, “which would likely show up in the data as a decrease or no change in premium,” it said. Insurers have also generally made their policies less comprehensive over the years, perhaps by removing certain risks from a general homeowners policy or reducing the dollar limits for certain coverage, Kochenburger said. Read more » click here
Hurricane Season For more information » click here
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30
NOAA maintains prediction for below-normal Atlantic hurricane season Need for U.S. residents to prepare remains With the climatological peak of hurricane season approaching in early September, NOAA’s prediction for below-normal activity in the Atlantic basin remains. Forecasters from NOAA’s National Weather Service updated today the number of expected named storms to 7-13 (with winds of 39 mph or greater), of which 2-6 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater), including 0-2 major hurricanes (winds of 111 mph or greater). These ranges cover the entire season from June 1 through November 30 and are inclusive of the two tropical storms that have already formed. NOAA forecasters predict a 75% chance for below-normal activity, with a 20% chance of a near-normal season, and just a 5% chance of above-normal activity. This updated prediction is similar to the initial outlook issued in May. In the Atlantic basin, a typical hurricane season will yield 14 named storms, of which seven become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes.
Only Gulf storms in the Atlantic Basin so far To date, the 2026 season has produced two named tropical storms, Arthur and Bertha, and no hurricanes. Tropical Storm Arthur was the first named storm of the Atlantic season. Forming in mid-June in the warm Gulf of America waters off the Texas coast, Arthur brought record rainfall to portions of Louisiana and spawned tornadoes along the Gulf coast. Bertha also formed in the Gulf, originating south of the Florida panhandle before making landfall in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana. “Inland rainfall is a major cause of damage from tropical storms and hurricanes, as Arthur demonstrated,” said NOAA’s National Weather Service Director Ken Graham. “That’s why it’s important to prepare for every storm that’s projected to impact your area, even if it never reaches hurricane strength.”
Factors influencing the Atlantic hurricane season outlook For the remainder of the season, tropical storm activity in the Atlantic basin is expected to be tempered by El Nino conditions, which first emerged in the equatorial Pacific in June. El Nino increases wind shear, which tends to prevent tropical storms from forming or from getting stronger once formed. Other less influential factors include temperatures near average in the Atlantic Ocean and a neutral west African monsoon. “When El Nino emerges, it usually becomes the dominant factor in total hurricane season activity, and this El Nino continues to get stronger every month,” said Matt Rosencrans, lead hurricane season forecaster with NOAA’s National Weather Service.“Compared to a mature El Nino, other mechanisms play a smaller role in determining the number and intensity of tropical storms in the Atlantic basin.”
Hurricane outlooks in other ocean basins Although El Nino tends to limit tropical activity in the Atlantic, it can enhance storm development in the Pacific. NOAA’s outlook for the Eastern Pacific hurricane season remains unchanged with 15-22 named storms, which is above average. So far there have been seven named storms, of which two became hurricanes, including one major hurricane. An above-normal season is also expected in the Central Pacific basin, with 5-13 named storms and tropical depressions.
About NOAA’s Hurricane Season Outlook NOAA’s Hurricane Season Outlook is for overall seasonal activity and is not a landfall forecast. Landfalls are largely determined by short-term weather patterns, which are only predictable within about a week of a storm potentially reaching land. NOAA’s National Hurricane Center (NHC) provides tropical weather outlooks out to seven days in advance, provides track and intensity forecasts for individual storms and issues watches and warnings for specific tropical storms, hurricanes and the associated storm surge.
Why the 2026 hurricane season is so quiet; what it means for NC coast So far the 2026 hurricane season, which started June 1, has been very slow. How slow? It’s the quietest start to a hurricane season this century. Why? For most of this hurricane season, the National Hurricane Center’s online map of the Atlantic basin has been showing a surprising image and message. Nothing with this text superimposed on the map: “Tropical cyclone activity is not expected during the next 7 days.” So far the 2026 season, which started June 1, has been the quietest start to a hurricane season this century. There have only been three named storms so far, and they’ve lasted a combined four days. Tropical Storm Arthur brought significant rain to parts of the Gulf coast and Southeastern United States in mid-June, but only after it dissipated. Tropical Storm Bertha in mid-July also brought rain to parts of the Gulf but didn’t cause much of a ruckus. And Tropical Storm Cristobal in August hung around for about a day in the middle of the Atlantic before petering out. Even a pair of tropical disturbances that held the possibility of forming into something or even combining into a bigger system before hitting the Caribbean in mid-August fizzled out. So what’s going on, and how soon could we see Dolly and Edouard?
The 2026 season is both normal and unusual According to the hurricane center, things aren’t actually that unusual this year. “The first named storm typically forms in mid- to late June, the first hurricane tends to form in early to mid-August, and the first major hurricane forms in late August or early September,” the agency states on its website. The busiest part of hurricane season also runs roughly from mid-August into early October, with the peak day for activity being Sept. 10. But according to another factor, this season is a strange one. The Weather Channel reports that the accumulated cyclone energy, which measures how long storms last and how strong they get, for this hurricane season is unusually low. According to the weather site, the 2026 season is the slowest-starting hurricane season in terms of accumulated cyclone energy since 1998.
Enter El Niño Across the board, meteorologists say the strengthening El Niño in the equatorial Pacific is playing a large role in squashing tropical activity in the Atlantic basin. El Niño is a natural climate pattern in which surface seawater temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific are warmer than normal. Meaning Little Boy in Spanish, El Niño was originally recognized by fishermen off the coast of South America with the appearance of unusually warm water in the Pacific around Christmas. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there’s a nearly 70% chance it could develop into a “super” El Niño, meaning its impacts could be greater than normal. If a super El Niño does develop, it could supercharge weather events across the world. For the U.S. South, which could mean wetter conditions with more heavy rainfall events this fall and winter − bringing much-needed relief to the ongoing drought situation in much of the Tar Heel State. In a world already cooking hotter than normal thanks to climate change, the weather pattern also could amplify extreme heat already baking much of the world. According to the World Meteorological Organization, 2025 was the third warmest year on record, only trailing 2024 and 2023, with sea-surface temperatures also setting records despite cooling La Niña weather patterns. El Niño can have a significant impact on the severity of the hurricane season in both the Atlantic and the Pacific. In the Atlantic, the weather pattern tends to reduce activity in the tropical Atlantic by bringing on stronger upper-level wind shear and sinking air, hindering the formation of tropical weather systems, while having the opposite effect and boosting activity in the Pacific. The Northwest Pacific has already seen three Category 5 storms this season, and in the Central Pacific Hurricane Lala just finished lashing Hawaii with 90 mph winds.
What happens now? The latest forecast from Colorado State University is only calling for nine named storms this season, which would be an exceptionally low total, especially given how warm most of the tropical Atlantic is right now. In effect, the Caribbean has largely become a no-go zone for hurricane formation. “That’s a great indication of the power of El Niño, that it can develop in the Pacific, but still have a controlling role in weather patterns half a world away,” said N.C. Assistant State Climatologist Corey Davis. While North Carolina missing out on tropical weather might sound good on paper, it also comes with some other impacts. One of those is a loss of the rainfall such a system would bring to Eastern North Carolina, an area that largely remains in drought or a very dry state as of late August. The region relies on passing tropical weather for much of its summer precipitation that helps farmers and recharges underground aquifers. According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, the Port City had seen 25.3 inches of rain in 2026 as of Aug. 18. That compares to a normal average of nearly 36 inches. “Wilmington averages more than 8 inches of rain in both August and September, and it’s hard to get that much from the sort of spotty showers and storms we’ve seen in recent weeks,” Davis said. “While we certainly don’t wish for anything tropical, some areas could definitely use the rain to make a dent in this drought.” But on the flip side, El Niño normally brings above-average rainfall to the U.S. Southeast in the fall and winter. During the last strong El Niño in 2015, Wilmington has its wettest October on record and fourth-wettest winter, Davis said. “This all feels like a be-careful-what-you-wish-for sort of situation,” he said. “We need the rain now, but we’ll probably be sick of it in a few months.” Tim Armstrong, a meteorologist with the weather service’s Wilmington office, said even with El Niño hindering storm development across much of the tropics, which doesn’t mean Southeastern N.C. is out of the woods for storm development. “There’s still the subtropical Atlantic we have to watch closely,” he said. “El Niño doesn’t affect shear as much outside of the tropics, so a locally grown storm could more easily develop this fall and bring impacts to the Carolinas.” Past examples of these types of storms include Ophelia in 2005 and Diana in 1984. And the unnamed storm that swamped southern New Hanover County and parts of Brunswick County with 20 inches of rain in 2024 was another one of these storms, he added. Officials also continue to stress to coastal residents that even if it appears to be a relatively quiet season, it only takes one storm arriving on your doorstep to make it a terrible hurricane season. “And our own work suggests that it is very difficult to predict that quantity on a year-to-year basis since you are dealing with the statistics are very small numbers,” said Dr. Michael Mann, a meteorologist and scientist at the University of Pennsylvania. “But we do know that there is an increase over time in the maximum intensity of these storms driven by human-caused warming.” Read more » click here
Inlet Hazard Areas For more information » click here
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Lockwood Folly Inlet For more information » click here.
Seismic Testing / Offshore Drilling For more information » click here.
Offshore Wind Farms For more information » click here
Things I Think I Think
Eating out is one of the great little joys of life.
Restaurant Review: The Dinner Club visits a new restaurant once a month. Ratings reflect the reviewer’s reaction to food, ambience and service, with price taken into consideration. ///// July 2026 Name: Savorez Cuisine: Latin American Location: 402 Chestnut St, Wilmington, NC 28401 Contact: 910.833.8894 / https://savorez.com/ Food: Average / Very Good / Excellent / Exceptional Service:Efficient / Proficient / Professional / Expert Ambience:Drab / Plain / Distinct / Elegant Cost: $21Inexpensive <=20 / Moderate <=26 / Expensive <=35 / Exorbitant <=60 Rating: Two Stars Chef Sam Cahoon opened Savorez in 2018, blending Latin flavors with Southern cooking through fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients. The name says it all: “Savorez” means “flavors” in Spanish. Located just off the beaten path, Savorez is a very small, unpretentious spot with limited seating for only thirty guests. The atmosphere is comfortable, friendly, casual, nothing fancy in this cozy restaurant. The same menu is served at lunch and dinner, and it is fairly limited, offering only seven entrée options. The venue feels too small for its popularity, and because reservations are not accepted, dining there can be a challenge. Despite being ranked #2 out of 699 Wilmington restaurants, our experience did not match the praise. Frankly, we were not impressed, and it did not live up to that kind of rating.
Chianti South set to re-open in Little River under new ownership A popular Little River Italian restaurant is returning with a new look and feel.Chianti South, located just before the North Carolina state line on Highway 17, is planning to re-open soon under new ownership. The restaurant originally opened back in 1997 and was known for its Italian cuisine and award-winning wine list. It closed down in 2024 after a property sale, but new ownership — led by popular North Carolina restaurateur James Lane — will re-open the restaurant under the same name.“There will be remodeling, for sure,” a spokesperson with Lane’s organization told MyHorryNews. “You’ll see some updates in the building, but it will be a similar menu and dining experience. I think we will open back up with the same nostalgic feeling that people have always had at Chianti South.”Lane owns several restaurants over the state line in Brunswick County, including Lucca Italian Chophouse in Shallotte, Maria’s Pizzeria in Ocean Isle Beach and Oak & Palm in Sunset Beach.The next step for Lane and the business will be crossing over into South Carolina; the re-opened Chianti South will be similar to what locals remembered the restaurant to be.“The menu will reflect a remembrance of Chanti South,” the spokesperson said. “All of our pastas will be house-made, including ravioli and we will have great high-quality steaks and chops, as well.”No date was given on when the restaurant expects to open, although progress and renovations are already being made at the location. Management says they are looking forward to giving back to the Horry County community and putting on events that benefit the area and local charities. Read more » click here
Editor’s note – Lane’s organization owns Sorellarestaurant in Holden Beach too
///// Name: Sorella Cuisine: Italian Restaurant Location: 3219 Holden Beach Road, Supply NC Contact: 910.842.2177 / https://www.sorellapizzapasta.com/ Food:Average / Very Good / Excellent / Exceptional Service: Efficient / Proficient / Professional / Expert Ambience: Drab / Plain / Distinct / Elegant Cost: $22 Inexpensive <=$20 / Moderate <=$26 / Expensive <=$35 / Exorbitant <=$60 Rating: Two Stars Sorella means sister in Italian, they are the sister restaurant of Maria’s Pizzeria in Ocean Isle Beach and Lucca in Shallotte. Located on the causeway to Holden Beach, they are open daily at 11:00 am. A local authentic Italian restaurant, a casual atmosphere, with a limited menu, serving a wide variety of pizzas, pastas, and some traditional Italian dishes. This is one of the better restaurant offerings in the area.
///// Name: Lucca Italian Chop House Cuisine: Italian Location: 4924 MainStreet, Shallotte NC Contact: 910.754.2334 / https://www.luccachophouse.com/ Food: Average / Very Good / Excellent/ Exceptional Service: Efficient / Proficient /Professional / Expert Ambience: Drab/ Plain / Distinct / Elegant Cost: $26Inexpensive<=20 / Moderate <=26 /Expensive <=35 / Exorbitant <=60 Rating: Two Stars Lucca is a local Italian restaurant, dining in a casual relaxed atmosphere with a menu that offers something for everyone. An exceptional value, the food is very good, the portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. All in all, we had a nice meal there, but it really wasn’t anything special.
Book Review: Read several books from The New York Times best sellers fiction list monthly Selection represents this month’s pick of the litter
THE HUNTER by Tana French A divorced American retired detective tries to blend into rural Ireland in this sequel to the 2015’s The Searcher. At the heart of the story is Cal who moved to rural Ireland looking for peace. He’s built a relationship with a local woman, Lena, and he’s gradually turning Trey from a half-feral teenager into a good kid going good places. But then Trey’s absentee father, Johnny, comes back to town intent on perpetrating a swindle on the townsfolk. His cockamamie scheme sets in motion a series of crimes, including a murder, and suddenly everything the three of them have been building is under threat.
THE KEEPER by Tana French In the final installment of the Cal Hooper trilogy, retired Chicago detective Cal Hooper tries to preserve the quiet life he has built in a remote Irish village. But when a young woman is found dead in the river, Cal and his fiancée are drawn into a dangerous investigation that exposes local tensions, long-buried secrets, and a corrupt land-development scheme threatening both the town and the fragile new life he has worked so carefully to create.
That’s it for this newsletter
See you next month
Lou’s Views . HBPOIN
Gather and disseminate information
Identify the issues and determine how they affect you
2. Discussion and Possible Approval of the Contract with MidAtlantic Engineering Partners to Perform an Underwater Study for the Holden Beach Pier – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 31 – 39
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and possible action approving the contract with MidAtlantic Engineering Partners.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: At the June 16th meeting, the BOC approved engaging with MidAtlantic Engineering Partners for engineering services to perform an underwater inspection of the below substructure elements of the Town pier. The proposed contract price is $47,144.50 for these services. MidAtlantic anticipates completing the underwater inspection, engineering evaluation, cost estimating, and final inspection report within forty-five (45) calendar days of Notice to Proceed, subject to weather conditions and site accessibility.
The base scope of work, consisting of Tasks I through 4 as described in the RFQ and our technical proposal (project preparation/administration, mobilization/demobilization, field work, and preparation of the underwater inspection report), is proposed at a total fee of$47,144.50
Previously reported – March 2025 HDR Executive Summary » click here
Previously reported – April 2025 HDR Condition Assessment » click here
After reviewing the qualifications, the Board selected MidAtlantic Engineering Firm to assess the underwater structure, including the pilings, of the pier. Commissioner Myers noted that this represents a shift from the previous plan to build a new pier to repairing the existing pier. He reminded the Board that HDR Engineering Firm had previously advised that, over the long term, repairs could be more costly. Commissioner Smith stated that the objective is to determine the condition of the pier pilings and the estimated cost of repairs so the Board can decide how to proceed.
A decision was made – Approved (4-1) Commissioner Myers opposed the motion
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.
The HDR report clearly concludes that repairing the existing pier is not cost-effective. The structure has reached the end of its useful life, so any repairs would be temporary while still requiring substantial upfront and ongoing maintenance costs. From a fiscal responsibility standpoint, investing significant funds in a structure that will need continual repairs and eventual replacement is difficult to justify and risks throwing good money after bad. HDR made a strong effort to explain to the Board why repairs are not in the Town’s best interest. This is not only a financial issue: on five separate occasions, public input has shown insufficient support for a pier. Ignoring both the financial realities and repeated public feedback raises serious concerns about priorities and decision-making. Although other funding sources continue to be discussed, no funding has been identified to repair or replace the pier under either option.
Holden Beach solicits underwater pier study The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners is taking another step in evaluating the future of the town pier, voting April 21 to move forward with an underwater study of the structure’s pilings. The pier property has been one of if not the most contentious topic of debate in town hall since the town bought it in 2022. It currently sits bare of any building, and the pier is closed to the public because of its instability. While some residents want to have a functioning pier back at all costs, others would rather focus on public safety and infrastructure projects, like building a fire station on the island. The current board is now tasked with navigating those competing priorities while trying to determine what is both financially and structurally feasible. The board during its April 10 special meeting discussed the project with staff, HDR Senior Engineer Bill Kincannon and HDR Project Manager Will Fuller. Some commissioners expressed desire to solicit realistic cost estimates of both repair and replacement options. HDR had been contracted in early 2025 to evaluate both repair and reconstruction options, including preliminary designs and cost estimates. However, after an initial structural inspection, the firm recommended against pursuing repairs, stating they were unlikely to be cost-effective compared to rebuilding, Fuller said. “Not that it is not possible,” Fuller said, “but it is not going to be cost-effective.” That recommendation led the town to halt further repair analysis at the time and focus instead on reconstruction concepts. It asked HDR to give a not-to-exceed cost estimate for the purpose of a referendum, which came out to $7.3 million. However, the engineers cautioned that the not-to-exceed estimate was partially based on speculation because of several unknowns that remain. Typically, those estimates are made much further along in the design process. Most importantly, the town has no credible study that tells what type of wood the pilings are made of, or what the condition the existing pilings are in. “You’re not really going to have a good handle on your final design until we have the underwater testing done,” Kincannon said, “and until we’ve validated the material that is out there.” Kincannon noted that even details such as how deep the pilings were driven during past repairs are unclear, which raises concerns about their structural reliability. Without that information, engineers cannot determine how much of the pier could realistically be reused or what additional work would be required, he said. Commissioner Keith Smith said that he senses an unequivocal desire for a fishing pier in the town. He wants to find out what it would cost the town for a repair and compare it to what it would realistically cost the town to replace, he said. “Until we know what the repair number is,” Smith said, “we can’t really make an educated decision that repair is better than rebuild.” Inspections Director Tim Evans echoed that concern, pointing to the possibility that some pilings could be made of green heart wood, a highly durable material commonly used in marine construction. However, he said that cannot be confirmed without testing. “Without the actual testing of the piles,” Evans said, “without us actually knowing what’s there, I think the town is risking too much.” He added that the condition of the underwater foundation is likely to be the most significant factor in determining the overall project cost. Following that discussion, the board on April 21 considered how to best obtain that information. Town Manager Bryan Chadwick presented two options: re-engaging HDR under a new contract that would include the underwater study as part of the broader scope or issuing a separate request for qualifications (RFQ) to hire an engineering firm directly for the inspection. Chadwick said using HDR would involve subcontracting the work, which could add 5% to 10% in administrative costs. Issuing an independent RFQ, he said, would allow the town to obtain the study more directly and potentially move faster. “My recommendation would be to go with the second one,” Chadwick said. Smith agreed, saying pursuing the study independently would allow the town to determine whether repairs are even feasible before committing to additional engineering work. Commissioner Tom Myers raised concerns about costs even if the pilings are found to be in good condition, noting that bringing the pier up to code could still require significant investment. “If the piles are bad, it’s no go,” Myers said. “But if piles are good, I’m still not convinced we don’t have a lot more costs involved to do all the hardware repairs and build it to code.” Ultimately, Smith made a motion to issue the RFQ for an underwater study. The motion passed by a 3-1 vote, with Myers opposed. Read more » click here
Previously reported – June 2026 Proposals Pier Underwater Study » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and possible action on responses for an engineering firm to perform an underwater study for the pier.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The Town issued an RFQ for engineering services to perform an underwater inspection of the below substructure elements of the Town pier. The RFQs were submitted on June I 0, 2026 and are included with the agenda packet. Staff will review and have a recommendation at the meeting.
Update – A motion was made to approve the contract with MidAtlantic Engineering for the pier underwater inspection, subject to Town Attorney edits. The underwater study is necessary to determine whether the Town can proceed with repair options.
A decision was made – Approved (4-1) Commissioner Myers opposed the motion
3. Discussion and Possible Selection of Members to Serve on Town Boards – Town Clerk Finnell
Agenda Packet – pages 40 – 46, plus separate packet
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Selection of Members to Serve on Boards
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Interviews are scheduled for 4:45 p.m. on July 21st. Attached is a memo that details the terms and people who are interested in filling them.
Interviews for people interested in serving on various Town boards are scheduled for July 21st at 4:45 p.m. Just a reminder that current members are not normally interviewed again, so I did not ask them to be at the meeting. Below is a breakdown of the vacancies on each board.
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board:There are four terms expiring. Candace Vick is eligible and willing to serve another term. The other current members are not eligible to serve another term.
Planning & Zoning Board:There are two alternate member terms and one regular member term expiring. Regular member Aldo Rovito and alternate member Tina Page are willing and eligible to serve another term. Mark Francis has decided not to serve again.
Board of Adjustment: There are three regular member terms and three alternate member terms that needs to be filled. Current alternate member Rick Mcinturf has expressed interest in moving to the regular member position and is eligible to do so. The other current members are not eligible to serve additional terms.
Audit Committee:There are three vacancies on the Audit Committee. These positions are typically filled in January, however the vacancies occurred outside of the normal timeframe and there are only two remaining members of the committee. The minimum membership for this committee is three members.
I have received new applications as follows:
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board – Martie Arrowood, Ronald Bristol II, Fordham Britt, Julie Lopez, Steve O’Brien, Martha Spires
Planning & Zoning Board – no new applicants
Board of Adjustment – Mike Pearson, Marvin Rollins, Michael Williams
Audit Committee – Michael Williams (also applied for BOA)
Ballots will be supplied at the meeting if the Board desires to vote by ballot.
Previously reported – June 2026 ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Scheduling of a Date to Hold Interviews for Town Boards
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: There are terms expiring on Town boards in July, I recommend the Board hold interviews on Tuesday, July 21st at 4:45 p.m. for people interested in filling the vacant terms. Attached are the lists of current members and their terms.
Heather indicated that some Boards would have vacancies and they will need to hold interviews. The Board agreed by consensus to hold interviews to fill the vacancies before the next BOC’s Regular July meeting.
Volunteers needed Are you interested in serving on a Town board? The Town has vacancies on the Board of Adjustment, Planning & Zoning Board, the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board and the Audit Committee. Click here to view information on these boards. Interviews for vacancies will be held on Tuesday, July 21st at 4:45 p.m. Click here to access an application if you are interested in applying to serve. Completed applications can be emailed to heather@hbtownhall.com or dropped off at Town Hall prior to July 10th.
Update – The Board selected the following candidates to fill the vacancies:
Parks & Recreation Candace Vick Martie Arrowood Julie Lopez Martha Spires
Board of Adjustment Rick McInturf Mike Pearson Marvin Rollins Michael Williams – alternate Steve O’Brien – alternate
Audit Committee Ronald Bristol
4. Discussion and Possible Action Approving a Transfer from the General Fund Balance to the Beach & Inlet Capital Reserve Fund – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson . a. Ordinance 26-05, An Ordinance Amending 26-03, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2026 – 2027 (Amendment No. 1)
Agenda Packet – pages 47 – 48
Ordinance 26-05 »click hereNA
The Board approved the consent agenda items ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and possible action approving a transfer from the General Fund fund balance to the Beach and Inlet Reserve Fund.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The current general fund balance policy states the fund balance will be maintained with a balance of 40 to 70 percent. If the audited fund balance is more than 70 percent and the BOC chooses to continue this policy, the funds will be transferred to the Beach and Inlet Reserve Fund.
The last audited fund balance amount of the general fund was $3,410,317 which was 82% fund balance. To reduce the fund balance to the 70 percent threshold, the amount to be transferred is $499,070.
Please note I will be recommending a change to the fund balance policy in the future. To account for federal and state funding trends, I will recommend the balance be maintained at 50 to 100 percent. Anything over 100 percent will be transferred to the Beach and Inlet Fund.
Editor’s note – It shall be the Fund Balance Policyof the Town of Holden Beach to maintain a minimum of 40% and a maximum of 70% of unassigned fund balance in the General Fund.
Update – The Fund Balance Policy has been in place for eight years and directs how excess General Fund dollars, including unspent property tax revenue, are to be used. The original policy set aside excess funds for future beach nourishment projects. The current Board requested further discussion with the Town Manager before transferring any funds. A motion was made for Town staff to review the policy and present recommended changes to the Board at the next regular meeting.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
5. Discussion and Possible Action on Submission of an Application to the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to Create a No Wake Zone in the Intracoastal Waterway from Blockade Runner Drive to Roger Street – Mayor Holden . a. Resolution 26-08 – Resolution to Approve a No Wake Zone in the Intracoastal Waterway from Blockade Runner Drive to Roger Street
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Action on Submission of an Application to the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to Create a No Wake Zone in the Intracoastal Waterway from Blockade Runner Drive to Roger Street
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The Intracoastal Waterway from Blockade Runner Drive to Roger Street has become a safety hazard. In order to establish a no wake zone and make it enforceable in the area, the Town needs to submit a D-1 application to the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. As part of the application, a resolution must be adopted requesting the rulemaking; and affirmation must be given that the Town agrees to purchase and place markers that conform to the US Aids to Navigation standards. If the Town purchases the buoys from the commission the cost would be $166.75 per 9-inch buoy and $442.75 per 14-inch buoy.
The suggested motion is to approve Resolution 26-08 and to make affirmation that the Town will agree to purchase and place markers to implement the rule.
THB Newsletter (07/14/26) Public Notice – Application to NC Wildlife Resources Commission Public notice is hereby given that the Holden Beach Board of Commissioners will receive public input on the Town’s consideration of submitting an application to the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to request a no wake zone in the Intracoastal Waterway from Blockade Runner Drive to Roger Street. Comments can be made under the Public Comments on Agenda Items portion of the Board of Commissioners’ meeting scheduled for Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Public Assembly. Please email Heather Finnell, Town Clerk at heather@hbtownhall.comwith questions.
Legislation –
GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF NORTH CAROLINA / SESSION 1999 SESSION LAW 1999-92 / HOUSE BILL 649 AN ACT TO ESTABLISH A NO-WAKE SPEED ZONE IN HOLDEN BEACH.
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
Section 1. It is unlawful to operate a vessel at greater than a no-wake speed in the Intracoastal Waterway within the Town of Holden Beach between the island area designated as Rogers Street and the eastern line of the L.S. Holden subdivision. No wake speed is idle speed or a slow speed creating no appreciable wake.
Section 2. With regard to marking the no-wake speed zone established in Section l of this act, the Town of Holden Beach, Brunswick County, or their designees may place and maintain the markers in accordance with the Uniform Waterway Marking System and any supplementary standards for such system adopted by the Wildlife Resources Commission. All markers of the no-wake speed zone shall be buoys or floating signs placed in the water and must be sufficient in number and size as to give adequate warning of the no-wake speed zone to the vessels approaching from various directions.
In the General Assembly read three times and ratified this the 25th day of May1999.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF NORTH CAROLINA / SESSION 2007 SESSION LAW 2008-100 / HOUSE BILL 2155
AN ACT TO ESTABLISH A NO‑WAKE SPEED ZONE Near the Towns of Holden Beach and Oak Island.
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
Section 1. It is unlawful to operate a vessel at greater than a no‑wake speed in the Intracoastal Waterway adjacent to the Town of Holden Beach and the Town of Oak Island within 1,000 feet of the center of the intersection of the inlet at the Lockwood Folly River. No‑wake speed is idle speed or a slow speed creating no appreciable wake.
Section 2. With regard to marking the no‑wake speed zone established in Section 1 of this act, the Town of Holden Beach, Town of Oak Island, Brunswick County, or their designees may place and maintain the markers in accordance with the United States Aids to Navigation System (USATONS) and any supplementary standards for such system adopted by the Wildlife Resources Commission. Markers of the no‑wake speed zone shall be buoys, floating signs, or fixed signs, as appropriate, placed in the water and must be sufficient in number and size as to give adequate warning of the no‑wake speed zone to the vessels approaching from various directions.
In the General Assembly read three times and ratified this the 15th day of July 2008.
Previously reported – November 2021 MAYOR’S COMMENTS The No Wake Zone, which was made legal a number of years ago, which goes from the west end of the Yacht Watch subdivision down to just past Loulou’s Restaurant, is not being enforced and is not marked. Hopes that sometime in January, no later than February, we can have an invitation sent to enforcement agencies. We need to get everyone on board and find out all the legalities that the Town and enforcement people need to satisfy to see if we can get control of the safety problems we are having in and around the bridge. Asked the Board if there is anything that needs to be brought to their attention on why they shouldn’t move forward with getting the group together before something bad happens. The Board agreed to address it at a regular meeting.
Previously reported – December 2021 Alan stated that laws are not being abided by and there are daily violations. No Wake Zone not being enforced, which is a safety issue. He asked the Board to make it an agenda item at the regular board meeting at the beginning of next year. That meeting would include as many government officials and representatives as possible for an in-depth discussion.
Previously reported – January 2022 Alan described where the NO-Wake Zone area is located. Several government officials were present. They said that it is a NC sanctioned area but has not been recognized by the USACE. However, after doing some research they found that we do have the necessary legislation, it has been previously recognized and approved by the USACE. They will work with the USACE to make them aware of this and request a No-Wake Zone be enforced.
Update – Mayor Holden summarized the issue, noting that necessary legislation is in place but enforcement remains a concern. The Board is submitting an application to the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to request a No Wake Zone in the Intracoastal Waterway from Blockade Runner Drive to Roger Street. The Town would need to place buoys at both ends of the designated area for enforcement. Although enforcement responsibility is still unclear. A motion was made to approve Resolution 26-08 and affirm that the Town will purchase and place the required markers to implement the rule.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
6. Discussion and Possible Action on a Water Shortage Response Plan – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 54 – 68
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Consideration and possible action on a water shortage response plan.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Our 2021 Wholesale Bulk Water Service Agreement with Brunswick County states that during a water shortage we must “enforce the County’s Water Shortage Response Plan and Water Ordinance, or similar Plan and Ordinance no less stringent, for its own ratepayers.” We have spoken to the attorney and plan to adopt the fees associated with the County’s plan. We will reference the County’s plan in the fee section of our plan so if the County’s plan changes, our plan will not need to be updated. The County’s plan is attached as a reference document to the mandated fee schedule. We will be beginning the assessment of fees that correlate to the current level of water shortage immediately upon our plan’s adoption. Additionally, the fees in the plan will be added as an addendum to the current fee schedule to allow fee collection by the Town.
THB Newsletter (07/17/26) Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions
Due to the Exceptional Drought conditions, Brunswick County will remain under the Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning but will make slight changes to the MANDATORY restrictions list to allow for the use of automated irrigation systems once a week only (see below). This limited schedule would apply to automatic sprinkler systems for residential and commercial lawn and landscape irrigation.
Brunswick County will continue to monitor the drought conditions and water use to determine whether any changes to the Stage 3 Mandatory Restrictions (including the new limited irrigation schedule) may become necessary.
MANDATORY Schedule — Penalties for Non-Compliance Apply
Under this Stage 3 Limited Irrigation Schedule, water customers may only water lawns and landscaping with automatic irrigation systems (spray irrigation, drip irrigation, etc.) less than one inch of water per week, between the hours of 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. on their designated day (see below).
Properties with odd-numbered addresses (ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) and non-addressed facilities may irrigate during the consecutive 8-hour period from 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday through 4:00 a.m. Wednesday
Properties with even-numbered addresses (ending in 2, 4, 6, 8, 0) may irrigate during the consecutive 8-hour period from 8:00 p.m. on Friday through 4:00 a.m. Saturday
Holden Beach is monitoring water usage for all water customers and will be issuing penalties for violations. A full list of MANDATORY water usage adjustments and any exceptions can be found online at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise.
Update – The Board approved the Water Shortage Response Plan, requiring the Town to enforce the County’s plan and ordinance, or comparable measures, and align non-compliance fees with the County under the Wholesale Bulk Water Service Agreement. A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Town Manager Chadwick was not in attendance Assistant Town Manager Ferguson presented the report
Ocean Boulevard Stormwater Environmental evaluations and design level activities for both project areas continue Field assessments heading toward regulatory confirmation Survey team will pick up environmental flag locations to add to base map Internal construction sheet reviews will begin over the next several days Coordination with NCDOT
Previously reported – June 2026 McGill has finalized exiting condition survey Hydraulic modeling information and base stormwater assessment have been completed They have also done a preliminary evaluation of outlet structures
Previously reported – May 2026 Meeting is being coordinated with McGill, the USACE, and the Town
Previously reported – February 2026 Contract is included in February agenda packet
Previously reported – June 2025 The Town was awarded $2.2Min 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 Electronic Survey is posted on Town website July 29th & 30th Stakeholder Meetings July 31st Community Drop-In Event from 2pm – 7pm September BOC’s Work Session
Previously reported – June 2026 Held kickoff meeting yesterday, June 15th Survey, stakeholder meeting, and BOC’s focus group are all scheduled
At the BOC’s September work session they will be presented with two options
Previously reported – May 2026 Contract with McGill in agenda packet, contract approved tonight
Previously reported – April 2026 Draft contract with McGill in agenda packet
Previously reported – March 2026 Staff met with McGill to narrow the scope for inclusion in contract
Previously reported – February 2026 Discussion and recommendation for a firm on agenda
Block Q Improvements The Town of Holden Beach is in the initial stages of planning for development of a master plan of the Block Q area. As part of this effort, the Town will host a series of small focus group sessions to gather detailed input from stakeholders on key topics related to the future design and improvements of the Block Q project area.
Participation Opportunity The Town is offering stakeholders the opportunity to participate in small focus group discussions. Each group will meet one time. Participants may attend the prescheduled focus group meeting in-person at Town Hall or join the meeting via Microsoft Teams. The following is a list of the three (3) open focus group sessions, along with the specific areas of interest and the meeting schedule.
Focus Group Topics Focus Group A – Family / Youth July 29th – 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. Focus Group B – Boating / Outdoor Enthusiasts July 29th – 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Focus Group C – Business / Commercial Interests July 30th – 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Participation Guidelines
A limit of eight (8) participants per focus group
One participant per household
Participants may register for only one focus group
If you are interested in participating, please submit your name, contact information, and the specific focus group of interest to the following email address (jennifer.nash@mcgillassociates.com). The Town will accept the first eight (8) qualifying respondents for each group. Before submitting, please review the meeting schedule to ensure your availability for the focus group you select.
Additional Opportunities for Community Input A community engagement drop-in session will be held at Town Hall on Friday, July 31st from 2-7 p.m. There will also be a questionnaire available through a Town website link.
Block Q Stage Area Building is completed and in full use They hosted the first concert there on Sunday, July 5th Town staff worked diligently with the contractor to get this completed.
Previously reported – June 2026 Construction in progress
Previously reported – April 2026 Work started last week on the site
Previously reported – March 2026 Request for Proposals are out for bid Bids will be returned to staff with a recommendation for approval by commissioners
Previously reported – February 2026 Final specs are completed for distribution in Request for Proposals Bids will be returned to staff with a recommendation for approval by commissioners
Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP) Survey is on Town website to help identify potential projects
Previously reported – June 2026 We are in Phase 2 which includes the following: Planning, Project Identification, and Prioritization
Previously reported – May 2026 Survey is on the Town website to help identify potential projects
The Town is currently participating in the 2025 – 2026 cycle of the North Carolina Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP). The RCCP is a community-based initiative that greatly benefits from involvement, engagement and feedback among local stakeholders. Click here to view details on the program.
Previously reported – April 2025 ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Action regarding an application to the N.C. Resilient Coastal Communities Program for Phases 1 and 2.
Possible Action: Direct town staff to complete and submit an application for Phases 1 and 2.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP) is a component of the North Carolina Resilient Communities Program, developed through the 2020 North Carolina Climate Risk Assessment and Resilience Plan. The North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM) administers the RCCP with funding from the NC State Legislature and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF).
DCM is accepting applications from eligible communities for no-cost technical assistance to complete Phases I and 2 of the RCCP.
Phase 1: Community Engagement and Risk & Vulnerability Assessment
Phase 2: Planning, Project Identification, and Prioritization
There is no cash or in-kind match requirement from community applicants. DCM will contract directly with third-party contractors to assist communities in completing Phases 1 and 2.
The application involves responses to 14 questions. Applications are due at 5PM on April 25th,
N.C. Resilient Coastal Communities Program »click here
The RCCP is a four-phase program designed to:
Address local barriers to coastal resilience, including limited capacity, economic constraints, and social inequities .
Assist communities in conducting risk and vulnerability assessments to create a prioritized portfolio of resilience
Advance coastal resilience projects through engineering and design to achieve shovel ready
Link communities with funding sources for project
The four phases are :
Phase 1: Community Engagement and Risk & Vulnerability Assessment
Phase 2: Planning, Project Identification, and Prioritization
Phase 3: Engineering and Design
Phase 4: Project Implementation
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. A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Canal Dredging No change, still working Staff is working on alternative disposal site
Previously reported – April 2026 Staff is actively working with the Corps on the cost of Dredge spoils disposal
Previously reported – March 2026 Plans are being made to dredge canals next winter
Pier Property Site Contract with Mid-Atlantic approved earlier at this meeting
Previously reported – June 2026 RFQ responses on agenda tonight
Previously reported – May 2026 RFQ will be coming out shortly
Previously reported – April 2026 BOC at the Special Meeting asked him to review the HDR contract and see if it covers them evaluating the condition of the pilings. Bryan presented them with two options to move forward. This is a necessary step if the piles are bad the entire project would be a NO GO. The Board voted to have the Town rather than HDR send out a Request for Qualifications for an underwater engineering study of the pier pilings. A decision was made – Approved (3-1) Commissioner Myers opposed the motion
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.
Inlet Hazard Area Staff attended the recent Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) meeting and are actively involved in the discussion of possible changes to the Inlet Hazard Area. The next meeting is at the end of August.
Previously reported – June 2026 Staff will be attending another Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) meeting this week
Inlet Hazard Area changes is on the agenda
Previously reported – April 2026 Staff attended the recent Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) meeting and are actively involved in the discussion of possible changes to the Inlet Hazard Area
Hot Button Items / Inlet Hazard Areas For more information » click here
Dredging Area Maintenance The Corps is conducting maintenance at DA293 which is off Sailfish. Please be aware there may be work occurring in this dredge spoil area.
Previously reported – March 2026 USACE maintenance work in the inlets utilizing dredge spoil area on Sailfish
Restroom Maintenance and Cleaning Still having problems with the restroom vandalism
Previously reported – June 2026 Staff continues to monitor and implement changes as necessary
Previously reported – May 2026 Analyzing, trying to work it out
Previously reported – April 2026 Staff is making changes and proposing other changes to help mitigate damages and maintenance of restroom facilities
Unattended Beach Equipment Monitoring and reinforcement will continue
Previously reported – June 2026 Items are being left on beach strand overnight. Staff is contacting the rental property companies requesting that they educate their guests about the Ordinance.
Chapter 94 / Beach Regulations / §94.06 / Placing obstructions on the beach strand
All unattended beach equipment must be removed from the beach on a daily basis between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Here’s a crazy idea –
Why don’t we try enforcement of our existing Ordinance?
Misc. Staff attended the state Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) meeting. The new state budget funded an update to the Beach and Inlet Management Plan (BIMP), which is expected in 2027. Funding that supports dredging and beach management was cut from the budget. Oak Island may choose not to proceed with the Bend Widener project this winter, which could make that sand available. The Merritt is scheduled to be in the inlet from September 2–13 for dredging. They are meeting with the County on the 27th regarding water monitoring issues.
In Case You Missed It
THB Newsletter (06/18/26) OttoView by Otto Connect Just in time for peak beach season, Otto Connect, Inc. has launched a new feature designed to make parking along the coast easier and less stressful for visitors and residents alike. “OttoView by Otto Connect,” is part of the SurfCAST parking system and allows users to check parking availability in real time before heading to the beach. The feature is now available in Holden Beach. For many drivers, finding parking during busy summer weekends can be one of the most frustrating parts of a beach trip. OttoView aims to reduce congestion and save time by showing which lots have open spaces—and which do not—before users arrive. “Instead of circling for a spot, people can now see their options ahead of time and go directly to available parking,” Jim Varner (CEO) said in a statement.
Know before you go: OttoView can be accessed through the SurfCAST website
(https://park.surfcast.ottoconnect.us/), the QRcode link, and will be available soon via mobile app update (“SurfCAST by Otto”) making it easy for visitors to plan from home or on the go.
What OttoView Shows:
A map of the area and locations of all parking lots
Real-time parking availability by location
Estimated availability based on permit turnover
Directions to nearby parking areas
Filters for amenities such as restrooms, handicap spaces, and LSV parking
OttoView is fully integrated into the SurfCAST system and is available at no additional cost.
THB Newsletter (07/06/26) DOT Seeks Transportation Project Input The N.C. Department of Transportation is asking the public to provide input on what transportation projects they would like to see prioritized in the N.C. Department of Transportation’s next 10-year transportation plan for 2028-2037.
Throughout July, people can provide input that will help local transportation leaders understand what transportation projects matter to them and should be prioritized in their area. People can indicate their priorities and submit comments on NCDOT’s interactive prioritization map. They can also participate in open house public meetings set to take place across the state over the coming weeks. These will be informal gatherings in which citizens can share their interests in transportation projects and ask questions of local NCDOT staff. Locations and times for these meetings can be found on the NCDOT website.
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On February 3, 2026, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to September 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
What He Did Not Say
Remind everyone it’s Hurricane Season – be prepared, have a plan!
Public Service Announcements
Remember that parking ordinances are strictly enforced, including pay-to-park requirements. Do not block the emergency beach accesses located on the far east end, at the pier, the 500 block or the 800 block. These accesses are for emergency response access, not temporary parking to unload passengers or beach equipment. Blocking accesses creates a life threatening time delay to emergency response.
The bike lines are for bikes, not Low Speed Vehicles (LSV) and not for parking. Bicyclists under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet.
LSVs are still required to follow the same traffic laws as every other motor vehicle, including travel lane regulations and very importantly seat belt and child restraint regulations.
Pets are required to be on a leash at all times when off of your property, and no pets are allowed on the beach strand from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Beach equipment must be removed daily and cannot be left overnight. Storage of beach equipment on the frontal dunes is also restricted. Items left unattended will be removed and discarded as trash.
Fireworks and pyrotechnics create a safety risk to the operator and bystanders as well as a fire hazard to the dune vegetation and houses. Fireworks are illegal on the island; possession of fireworks is a Class 2 misdemeanor which carries a maximum penalty of 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. If you light it, we write it.
If you know something, hear something, or see something – call 911 and let the police deal with it.
A reminder of the Town’s beach strand ordinances: …..1) Chapter 90 / Animals / §90.20 / Responsibilities of owners …….a) pets are not allowed on the beach strand except between 5p.m. and 9a.m. daily …….b) dog’s must be on a leash at all times …….c) owner’s need to clean up after their animals …..2) Chapter 94 / Beach regulations / §94.05 / Digging of holes on beach strand …….a) digging holes greater than 12 inches deep without responsible person there …….b) holes shall be filled in prior to leaving …..3) Chapter 94 / Beach regulations / §94.06 / Placing obstructions on the beach strand …….a) all unattended beach equipment must be removed daily by 6:00pm
2026 Concert Schedule The 2026 concert schedule is now available. Enjoy the sounds of summer at our FREE concert series. Concerts are held on Sundays at 6:30 p.m. throughout the summer.
Beginning May 24th and continuing through September 6th
Tide Dyed Program The Tide Dye program will be held on Tuesdays between 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at Bridgeview Park picnic pavilion. Participants must be in line by 2:00 p.m. to participate because the process takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Fee is $7 per shirt for youth sizes through Adult XL and $10 per shirt for 2XL. Payment via cash or check only.
.Beginning June 9th and continuing through August 11th
Turtle Talk Two programs both are held every Wednesday during the summer at the Holden Beach Chapel. Children’s Turtle Time is at 4:00 p.m. with crafts, stories and activities for children ages 3 – 6. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Turtle Talk is an educational program at 7:00 p.m. for everyone else.
Beginning June 24th and continuing through August 12th
8. Mayor’s Comments
From the Mayor’s Desk (06/01/26) Hurricane Season June 1st is the official start to the hurricane season in the Atlantic. Would your family be prepared in the event of a hurricane? Click here to visit the Emergency Information section of our website. You will find helpful tips to implement now, before the threat of a storm. Please make sure you have your vehicle decals in place now. Do not wait! These decals are necessary for re-entry to the island in the event of an emergency situation that restricts access to the island. Click here for more information on decals.
From the Mayor’s Desk (07/07/26) The USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards crowned the tranquil, low-density Holden Beach as the best beach in North Carolina.
BOC’s Special Meeting 07/24/26
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here
1. Closed Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(5), To Establish or Instruct Staff or Agent Concerning the Negotiation of the Price and Terms of a Contract Concerning the Acquisition of Real Property Located at 101 South Shore Drive, Owned by Captain Pete’s Seafood Inc.
General Comments
BOC’s Meeting The Board of Commissioners’ next Regular Meetingis scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month, August 18th
It’s not like they don’t have anything to work on …
The following five (5) items are what’s In the Works/Loose Endsqueue:
2019 – Dog Park
2021 – Pier Properties Project
2021 – Rights-of-Way
2021 – Block Q Project/Carolina Avenue
2023 – Fire Station Project
The definition of loose ends is a fragment of unfinished business or a detail that is not yet settled or explained, which is the current status of these items. All of these items were started and then put on hold, and they were never put back in the queue. This Board needs to continue working on them and move these items to closure.
.
Lost in the Sauce
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From 2021 / Rights-of-Way
Rights-of-Way
Previously reported – June 2021 §95.05 STREET RIGHTS-OF-WAY.
(A)The purpose of this regulation is to establish what may be placed in street rights-of-way which are cleared by installation or repair of utilities, streets, or walkways. This regulation is not intended to remove or destroy landscaping or structures which are presently in place. Landscaping in street rights-of-way:
(1) Must not present a safety hazard; (2) Must not impede traffic; (3) Is placed at the risk of the individual; and (4) Is encouraged.
Timbo had pictures and a video to show what property owners have put up in the rights-of-way. Many were not in compliance with the ordinance.
Question: So, why hasn’t he enforced any ordinance noncompliance?
The ordinance as written states: . 1) “must not present a safety hazard” so we can address any safety issues without any changes . 2) “post and rope not to exceed 24 inches from grade” so we can enforce any noncompliance
The Ordinance is vague, if it stands as is written then perhaps, we should clarify exactly what can be done: . 1) Size of posts used . 2) Minimum setback from the street
Previously reported – June 2022 Pat presented some proposed changes to the current Post and Rope ordinance. This was simply a discussion of the variables that need to be considered. All these things need to be worked out in order to put together an ordinance. They agreed that it needs to be standardized, and easily understood by the public. The Town Manager will get feedback from the League of Municipality before they proceed.
Update – Well, it’s over five (5) years later and all things are as they were … We identified properties that were not in compliance, and nothing was done I’m not an attorney, but this goes from being a liability to negligence
Liability – the state of being responsible for something, especially by law
Negligence– failure to take proper care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in like circumstances
Maybe we should try getting ordinance compliance at least on safety hazards.
Do ya think?
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.
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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
Discover a wide range of things to do in the Brunswick Islands for an experience that goes beyond the beach. For more information » click here.
Calendar of Events Island
Concerts on the Coast Series The Town’s summer concert series calendar has been released! Live performances featuring local musical groups will be held at the Bridgeview Park picnic pavilion across from Town Hall. It will be on Sunday evenings at 6:30pm from May 24th to September 6th. The concerts are FREE of charge.
Beginning May 24th and continuing through September 6th
The park will be blocked from vehicular access beginning Saturday evening. The splash pad will be closed on Sundays and the multipurpose court will close at 3:00 p.m. each Sunday. No seating will be provided so everyone should bring their own chair for the event.
Meet the Holden Beach Police Dept. and the Tri-Beach Fire Dept. before the concert.
Tide Dye Tuesday Program The Tide Dye program will be held on Tuesdays between 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at Bridgeview Park picnic pavilion. Participants must be in line by 2:00 p.m. to participatebecause the process takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. The fee is $7 per shirt for youth sizes through Adult XL and $10 per shirt for 2XL.
Payment via cash or check only.
Please check Facebook on the day of the event for any inclement weather updates
Beginning June 9th and continuing through August 11th
Turtle Talk Two programs both are held every Wednesday during the summer at the Holden Beach Chapel. Children’s Turtle Time is at 4:00 p.m. with crafts, stories and activities for children ages 3 – 6. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Turtle Talk is an educational program at 7:00 p.m. for everyone else.
Beginning June 24th and continuing through August 12th
Parks & Recreation / Programs & Events For more information » click here
Pets are not allowed on the beach strand during the hours of 9am through 5pm
Dog’s need to be on a leash
Owner’s need to clean up after their animals
Bird Nesting Area NC Wildlife Commission has posted signs that say – Bird Nesting Area The signs are posted on the west end beach strand around 1335 OBW. People and dogs are supposed tostay out of the area from April through November . 1) It’s a Plover nesting area . 2) Allows migrating birds a place to land and rest without being disturbed
A Second Helping
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Program to collect food Saturday mornings(8:00am to 10:30am) during the summer at the Beach Mart on the Causeway. . 1) Twenty-second year of the program . 2) Food collections have now exceeded 317,000 pounds . 3) Collections will begin on Memorial Day weekend . 4) Food is distributed to the needy in Brunswick County For more information »click here . Hunger exists everywhere in this country; join them in the fight to help end hunger in Brunswick County. Cash donations are gratefully accepted. One hundred percent (100%)of these cash donations are used to buy more food. You can be assured that the money will be very well spent.
Mail Donations to: A Second Helping
% Sharon United Methodist Church 2030 Holden Beach Road
Supply, NC 28462
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
Paid Parking
Paid parking in Holden Beach Paid parking will be enforced from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily with free parking before and after that time. All parking will use license plates for verification.
Rates Parking rates for a single vehicle in all designated areas will be:
$5 per hour for up to four hours $20 per day for any duration greater than four hours $80 per week for seven consecutive days
Handicap Parking A vehicle displaying a handicap license plate and/or hang tag parked in a designated handicap space is free. Any other parking space will require a parking permit via the app.
Annual Passes Annual permits for the calendar year allow vehicles (this includes low-speed vehicles and trailers) access to designated parking.
$175 for a single vehicle
Passes can be purchased via the app, website or by telephone.
Where to Park Per ordinance, there is no parking on the streets or rights-of-way except in designated parking spaces identified by Pay-to-Park signs. Click here to view an interactive map. The table with authorized parking can be viewed below.
Citations will be issued for:
Parking without an active paid permit in a designated parking area
Parking within 40 feet of a street intersection
Parking in a crosswalk, sidewalk, or pedestrian access ways
Parking blocking a driveway or mailbox
Parking facing opposing traffic
Parking in a no parking zone, or within right-of-way
Parking on any portion of the roadway or travel lane
Parking a non-LSV vehicle in an authorized LSV location
How Do I Pay to Park The Town uses the SurfCAST by Otto Connect Mobile Solution. This is a mobile app downloadable for Apple and Android devices. Download the app today. Users will setup their account, enter their license plate details and pay for parking directly on the app. Alternatively, users can scan the QR Code located on the parking signs to access a secure website.
The Otto Connect customer service team will be available to help via phone and email.
THB Newsletter (06/18/26) OttoView by Otto Connect Just in time for peak beach season, Otto Connect, Inc. has launched a new feature designed to make parking along the coast easier and less stressful for visitors and residents alike. “OttoView by Otto Connect,” is part of the SurfCAST parking system and allows users to check parking availability in real time before heading to the beach. The feature is now available in Holden Beach. For many drivers, finding parking during busy summer weekends can be one of the most frustrating parts of a beach trip. OttoView aims to reduce congestion and save time by showing which lots have open spaces—and which do not—before users arrive. “Instead of circling for a spot, people can now see their options ahead of time and go directly to available parking,” Jim Varner (CEO) said in a statement.
Know before you go: OttoView can be accessed through the SurfCAST website
(https://park.surfcast.ottoconnect.us/), the QRcode link, and will be available soon via mobile app update (“SurfCAST by Otto”) making it easy for visitors to plan from home or on the go.
What OttoView Shows:
A map of the area and locations of all parking lots
Real-time parking availability by location
Estimated availability based on permit turnover
Directions to nearby parking areas
Filters for amenities such as restrooms, handicap spaces, and LSV parking
OttoView is fully integrated into the SurfCAST system and is available at no additional cost.
Solid Waste Pickup Schedule GFL Environmental change in service, the Saturday before Memorial Day till the end of September, trash pickup will be twice a week.
Please note:
Trash carts must be at the street by 6:00 a.m. on the pickup day BAG the trash before putting it in the cart Carts will be rolled back to the front of the house
GFL Refuse Collection Policy GFL has recently notified all Brunswick County residents that they will no longer accept extra bags of refuse outside of the collection cart. This is not a new policy but is stricter enforcement of an existing policy. While in the past GFL drivers would at times make exceptions and take additional bags of refuse, the tremendous growth in housing within Brunswick County makes this practice cost prohibitive and causes drivers to fall behind schedule.
Solid Waste PickupSchedule
starting the Saturday before Memorial Day (May 23rd)twice a week
Recycling
starting after Memorial Day (June 2nd) weekly pick-up
Curbside Recycling – 2026 GFL Environmental is now offering curbside recycling for Town properties that desire to participate in the service. The service cost per cart is $122.93 annually paid in advance to the Town of Holden Beach. The service consists of a ninety-six (96) gallon cart that is emptied every other week during the months of October – May and weekly during the months of June – September. Curbside Recycling Application » click here Curbside Recycling Calendar »click here
Trash Can Requirements – Rental Properties GFL Environmental – trash can requirements Ordinance 07-13, Section 50.08
Rental properties have specific number of trashcans based on number of bedrooms.
*One extra trash can per every 2 bedrooms ..
§ 50.08 RENTAL HOMES. (A) Rental homes, as defined in Chapter 157, that are rented as part of the summer rental season, are subject to high numbers of guests, resulting in abnormally large volumes of trash. This type of occupancy use presents a significantly higher impact than homes not used for summer rentals. In interest of public health and sanitation and environmental concerns, all rental home shall have a minimum of one trash can per two bedrooms. Homes with an odd number of bedrooms shall round up (for examples one to two bedrooms – one trash can; three to four bedrooms – two trash cans; five – six bedrooms – three trash cans, and the like).
Upon Further Review
Fire Service Funding
Brunswick County fire committee officially established The Brunswick County Board of Commissioners, during its June 15 meeting officially moved to establish a committee to review the fire service situation in Brunswick County and work to develop a path forward for a new fire service funding mechanism. County commissioners during their June 1 meeting verbally agreed to establish such a committee and tasked county administration with bringing back an official recommendation for the creation of the committee as an item on the June 15 meeting agenda. The recommendation was first proposed this spring by Brunswick County Fire Chief’s Association President Charles Drew, who is also the Southport Fire Department chief, but Brunswick County Commissioner Frank Williams on June 1 recommended the creation of the committee to the rest of the board. That recommendation states the purpose of the committee, titled the Brunswick County Fire Contract Administration and Funding Committee, will be “to recommend a stable, long-term funding mechanism for the fire service in Brunswick County, including a contract form that assures financial accountability and appropriate performance management.” The recommended make-up of the committee was “a representative from the [Brunswick County] Fire Chiefs’ Association, the board of commissioners, a mayor, the county manager’s office and the county tax office, with other appropriate county staff participating as their expertise is needed.” Commissioner Williams on June 15 asked that the make-up be slightly tweaked. “I would like to move that we create a committee that has two commissioners, two mayors (one that has a municipal department and one that does not) two chiefs (one from a municipal department, one from a non-profit), … two citizen representatives on it and then I’d say up to three staffers, and I’ll leave that general so that [county administration] can decide who the staffers would be,” he said. The committee was officially established on June 15, but no member appointments were made. Brunswick County for nearly two years has been exploring moving away from its current fire fee funding model that both county and local fire service leadership have called inadequate at meeting the needs of the rapidly growing county. Fire fees are imposed by the county on real property owners to fund the furnishing of fire protection services, per state law. Fire fees for improved properties are calculated based on a building’s heated square footage; fire fees for vacant land are calculated based on property acreage. Fire fees are not based on tax value. A funding model change is not planned for fiscal year 2026-2027 that began July 1, though county officials have previously said they are working towards enacting a change in FY 2027-2028 that starts next July 1. In lieu of a funding mechanism change in FY 26-27, the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners on May 4 voted to ratify a resolution requesting the North Carolina General Assembly amend local fire fee legislation to increase fire fee caps by 50% total over the next two fiscal years. The cap increase, originally requested by local fire departments through the Brunswick County Fire Chiefs’ Association, would allow fire departments to increase maximum collectable fire fee amounts by a total of 50% by fiscal year 2027-2028, with a maximum 25% cap increase in FY 2026-2027 beginning July 1. The cap increase would not require local fire departments to increase fire fee rates but rather will allow them to do so if demand requires it. This is a developing story. The Brunswick Beacon will continue reporting updates on this situation as it progresses. Read more » click here
Previously reported – June 2026 Brunswick County to form fire service committee The Brunswick County Board of Commissioners on June 1 voted unanimously to form a committee to review the fire service situation in Brunswick County and work to develop a path forward for a new fire service funding mechanism. Commissioner Frank Williams made the recommendation for the establishment of the committee, first proposed earlier this spring by Brunswick County Fire Chief’s Association President Charles Drew, who is also the Southport Fire Department Chief. Drew on April 20 asked the commissioners to form a committee including fire chiefs, county commissioners, mayors and citizens to study a new funding fire service mechanism to be established in Brunswick County by the 2027-28 fiscal year, beginning July 1, 2027. Williams on June 1 noted Drew’s recommendation was for the proposed committee “to review the fire situation and, specifically, to help develop a path forward for a new funding mechanism, review and agree on a contract, and possibly discuss capital oversight.” “[Drew’s] proposed structure was two commissioners, two chiefs (one from a municipal and one from a nonprofit department), two mayors (one a town with a municipal department, one from a town without), and two citizen members,” Commissioner Williams said last week. “I would like to see us form a committee, but with a couple of additional people on it. One being the county fire administrator, one being a member of our county management team, and then other county staff, whether it be finance or legal, in an advisory capacity as needed.” The board of commissioners unanimously agreed with Williams’ recommendation and instructed county staff to add the official creation of the committee as an item on the board of commissioners’ June 15 meeting agenda. Brunswick County for over a year has been exploring moving away from its current fire fee funding model that both county and fire service leadership have called inadequate at meeting the needs of the growing county. Fire fees are imposed by the county on real property owners to fund the furnishing of fire protection services, per state law. Fire fees for improved properties are calculated based on a building’s heated square footage; fire fees for vacant land are calculated based on property acreage. Fire fees are not based on tax value. A funding model change is not planned for fiscal year 2026-2027 that begins July 1, though county officials have previously said they are working towards enacting a change in FY 2027-2028 that starts next July 1. Primary fire service in Brunswick County jurisdiction is typically provided by nonprofit volunteer fire departments — most of which now are primarily staffed by paid firefighters — with nearby municipal fire departments, and other nonprofit departments, providing secondary response. Municipal departments also often cover areas in county jurisdiction within their respective fire districts that also include areas within municipal jurisdiction. Many local nonprofit departments, which operate entirely on fire fees and grants, fundraising and donations, are facing challenges stemming from exploding call volume, declining volunteer firefighter numbers, increasing costs for fire apparatus and other equipment and the need for new or updated facilities due to ongoing growth. Some municipal departments, funded partly by fire fees supplemented by property taxes collected by their respective municipalities, are facing similar struggles related to growth and increased costs. In lieu of a funding mechanism change in FY 26-27, the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners on May 4 voted to ratify a resolution requesting the North Carolina General Assembly amend local fire fee legislation to increase fire fee caps by 50% total over the next two fiscal years. The cap increase, originally requested by local fire departments through the Brunswick County Fire Chiefs’ Association, would allow fire departments to increase maximum collectable fire fee amounts by a total of 50% by fiscal year 2027-2028, with a maximum 25% cap increase in FY 2026-2027 beginning July 1. The cap increase would not require local fire departments to increase fire fee rates but rather will allow them to do so if demand requires it. This is a developing story. The Brunswick Beacon will continue reporting updates on this situation as it progresses. Read more » click here
Brunswick County formally requests fire fee cap increase The Brunswick County Board of Commissioners on May 4 voted to ratify a resolution requesting the North Carolina General Assembly amend local fire fee legislation to increase fire fee caps by 50% total over the next two fiscal years. Fire fees are imposed by the county on real property owners to fund the furnishing of fire protection services, per state law. Fire fees for improved properties are calculated based on a building’s heated square footage; fire fees for vacant land are calculated based on property acreage. Fire fees are not based on tax value. The cap increase, originally requested by local fire departments through the Brunswick County Fire Chiefs’ Association, would allow fire departments to increase maximum collectable fire fee amounts by a total of 50% by fiscal year 2027-2028, with a maximum 25% cap increase in FY 2026-2027 beginning July 1. The requested cap increase, if approved, will not require local fire departments to increase fire fee rates, but rather will allow them to do so if demand requires it. For example, Calabash Fire Department in a social media statement last week said it does not plan to raise fire fees in FY 2026-27. Primary fire service in Brunswick County jurisdiction is typically provided by nonprofit volunteer fire departments — most of which now are primarily staffed by paid firefighters — with nearby municipal fire departments, and other nonprofit departments, providing secondary response. Municipal departments also often cover areas in county jurisdiction within their respective fire districts that also include areas within municipal jurisdiction. Many local nonprofit departments, which operate entirely on fire fees and grants, fundraising and donations, are facing challenges stemming from exploding call volume, declining volunteer firefighter numbers, increasing costs for fire apparatus and other equipment and the need for new or updated facilities due to ongoing growth. Some municipal departments, funded partly by fire fees supplemented by property taxes collected by their respective municipalities, are facing similar struggles related to growth and increased costs. The current fire fee schedule was last adjusted in 2017, and the resolution notes in-county growth and fire service demand has necessitated another adjustment. The existing fee schedule, the resolution states, has “become further outdated” and is “insufficient to keep up with inflation as well as the growing population and needs of Brunswick County.” The resolution asserts that the requested cap increase will “enhance the ability of Brunswick County to meet the fire protection needs of its citizens.” During the May 4 meeting, Calabash Fire Department Chief and Fire Chiefs’ Association Vice President Keith McGee requested commissioners support for the resolution. Read more » click here
Previously reported – February 2026 County proposes new fire service contract focused on performance, accountability While Brunswick County continues working out how it will fund local fire service in the future, county commissioners on Jan. 20 were presented with an updated fire services agreement draft aimed at establishing performance standards and improving financial reporting standards for local nonprofit fire departments. The board did not vote on adopting the updated agreement on Jan. 20, instead providing county administration with feedback on the proposed changes. The primary changes outlined in the updated service contracts related to establishing performance standards for local fire departments and increasing financial accountability for departments that plan to accept additional funding the county plans to provide in the upcoming fiscal year, county staff explained. For over a year, Brunswick County has been investigating how to sufficiently fund in-county fire service following concerns about the existing fire fee funding model adequacy. Fire fees are imposed by the county on real property owners to fund the furnishing of fire protection services, per state law. Fire fees for improved properties are calculated based on a building’s heated square footage; fire fees for vacant land are calculated based on property acreage. Fire fees are not based on tax value. Many local nonprofit departments are facing challenges stemming from declining volunteer numbers necessitating most departments to hire paid staff, increasing costs and delivery time for fire apparatus and equipment, increased call volume and the need for new or updated facilities due to growth. These departments operate entirely on fire fees, grants, fundraising and private donations. Municipal departments are facing similar struggles related to growth and increased costs. These departments are funded partly by fire fees supplemented by ad valorem (property) taxes collected by each department’s municipality. As a potential solution, the county has been exploring moving away from its fire fee funding model to a fire tax funding model. With a fire tax model, counties can charge a 10-cent fire tax per $100 property value in each fire district or between 11- and 15-cents per $100 value with a voter-approved referendum. If the county moves to a fire tax system, citizens would no longer pay fire fees. Though this change is not planned for fiscal year 2026-2027, which begins July 1, county officials are working to prepare for a possible change in FY 2027-2028. In lieu of the funding model switch in FY 26-27, County Manager Steve Stone in November recommended the county revise its fire service funding contracts with local nonprofit departments to clarify its service expectations and require more financial accountability aimed at improving service across the county. The county is also considering providing between $10 million and $12 million in one-time supplemental funding to local departments to help meet service demands while a permanent solution is worked out. Stone said the $10-$12 million estimate is based on funding needed for minimum staffing levels at each department. The final subsidy funding figure will be calculated as part of the FY 26-27 budget process, he added. “It could be more. It could be less.” The county manager also explained fire departments would need to sign the finalized new services agreement “to be eligible to receive supplemental funding.” Brunswick County Spokesperson Meagan Kascsak said the current agreements between local fire departments and the county do not expire for another two fiscal years, and departments can continue operating under those agreements if they so choose. “However, if a department chooses this route, they will not be able to request subsidized funding for particular projects or purchases that their current fire fee allotment may not be able to cover,” Kascsak said. The new agreement contains a proposed stipulation requiring any equipment fire departments purchase with county-subsidized funds to be titled to Brunswick County and leased to respective fire departments, Kascsak confirmed. “Any existing equipment a fire department owns that was purchased in the past from their general fund/fire fees allocation, grant funding, donations, etc. will continue to belong to that fire department and will not be titled to the county,” she added. County staff has met with the Brunswick County Fire Chief’s Association to discuss the updated agreement and its provisions, Stone said. County officials following the Jan. 20 meeting were also set to meet with the municipal fire departments, he added, though these departments’ contracts differ and will apply to areas outside municipal fire departments’ corporate limits. The county manager during the Jan. 20 meeting explained the major changes in the proposed new agreement. “What we have here essentially are for the really the first time in the past 26 or 27 years or more, whereby we have some specific department performance standards which are based on national standards from the National Fire Protection Association for rural areas,” Stone said. “We also are moving towards more financial accountability with this agreement, but we would not really require additional financial work on the part of the departments. The additional auditing, we would propose that the county actually engage an auditor to do that work.” The proposed agreement also adds requirements related to response times, staffing, operational capabilities, required data collection and reporting that data to the county Fire Oversight Committee. Concerning response times, the proposed agreement requires fire departments to “make reasonable efforts to deliver the first-arriving unit and the minimum Effective Response Force (ERF) to emergency incidents within” 14 minutes or less from dispatch to arrival on-scene for structural fire suppression, and eight minutes or less from dispatch to arrival on-scene for single unit response. Departments would be expected to achieve these response times in “at least 80% of all emergency incidents occurring within the contract service area, measured annually.” If a department’s performance falls below the outlined 80% threshold, it would be required to: conduct a root-cause analysis with the county fire administrator and submit a written corrective action plan within 60 days identifying the deficiency and outlining corrective measures. Regarding response staffing, the proposed agreement would require a total of six “qualified firefighters” on the scene for fire suppression incidents requiring an initial attack capability within the required response times. Four of the six qualified firefighters would be required to be from the primary responding department. The proposed agreement defines “qualified firefighters” as “individuals of the department who meet the training and certification standards recognized by the department and applicable state and federal regulations for their assigned role.” Additionally, each department would be required to maintain records of dispatch times, turnout times, travel times, personnel counts upon arrival on scene, incident types and locations and any factors resulting in delayed or impaired response. Departments would also need to submit quarterly performance reports to the Brunswick County Fire Oversight Committee. Information contained in those reports include the percentage of incidents in which the departments met the 14-minute performance objective, staffing compliance data, analysis of deficiencies and contributing factors and performance improvement recommendations. The county would provide the software to each department for aforementioned data and records collection, Stone told the board. Brunswick County Fire Chiefs Association Vice President Keith McGee, who is also the Calabash Fire Department Chief, said the proposed agreement “represents several fundamental shifts in how fire service governance, performance expectations, and accountability are structured in Brunswick County,” noting the chief’s association is “not at this time expressing agreement with the contract as currently written.” McGee asked the county to continue conservation and collaboration with local fire departments and allow departments more time to review the agreement before bringing it to a vote. “We believe that this approach will help ensure a final agreement that is clear, workable, and supported by both the county and the fire departments that are responsible for delivering emergency services to our citizens,” he said. County administration is expected to bring an updated draft, incorporating board feedback and additional feedback from local fire departments to the board of commissioners during its Monday, Feb. 16 meeting at 6 p.m. Read more » click here
Corrections & Amplifications
Ocean Isle Beach Terminal Groin
Ocean Isle Beach completed construction of a terminal groin on its east end in April 2022 to help protect the beach immediately behind it. However, this structure has contributed to significant erosion at the east end near Shallotte Inlet by interrupting natural longshore drift, prompting ongoing efforts such as sandbag use to prevent ocean encroachment on properties in that area.
On Holden Beach, the recent volume change rates (May 2024 to November 2024) along the oceanfront shoreline indicated erosion at 12 of the 21 monitoring stations. Similarly, the MHW shoreline change rates indicated a shoreline retreat at 15 of the 21 monitoring stations. The long-term post-construction linear shoreline changes along the Holden Beach oceanfront shoreline indicated landward retreat. However, volumetric changes indicated slight accretion (0.2 cy/ft./yr.) within this area over the long-term period. The shoreline threshold analysis results along the Holden Beach oceanfront shoreline show that the post-construction shoreline change threshold was exceeded at only one monitoring station. This is the first time a threshold has been exceeded at Holden Beach since this annual analysis started in 2022. In addition, the analysis of May 2024 aerial imagery-derived wet/dry line revealed an 885 ft. section of Holden Beach’s inlet shoreline that exceeded the inlet shoreline threshold by a maximum distance of 100 feet. The inlet shoreline threshold on Holden Beach was also exceeded in Year-2. This marks two straight years where this threshold was exceeded.The inlet shoreline recession is believed to likely be attributed to a combination of morphological changes within Shallotte Inlet including the position and orientation of the main channel through Shallotte Inlet and the formation of a flood channel on the inlet shoulder of Holden Beach. Regardless, as stated in the Plan, because the shoreline changes in this area exceeded the threshold over the entire 2-year confirmation period, an assessment of the proper responsive measures will be made through coordination with State and Federal regulatory officials.
East End/Terminal Groin Short Term Mitigation As required by State and Federal permits associated with the Town’s Shoreline and Inlet Management Plan, annual shoreline monitoring identified erosion east of the terminal groin that exceeded established management thresholds. To maintain permit compliance and address localized erosion concerns, the Town implemented a short-term mitigation project consisting of targeted beach nourishment east of the terminal groin.
Project Update
Project completed: May 24, 2026
Sand placed: Approximately 45,000 c/y
Engineer: Coastal Protection Engineering
Contractor: Southwind Construction
Total project cost: $667,696.61
This project, along with the US Army Corps of Engineers – Shallotte Inlet Crossing & Widener Project, placed 70,000 cy of sand east of the terminal groin with another 35,000 cy west of the terminal groin. With this short-term mitigation measure in place, the Town has engaged with Coastal Protection Engineering (CPE) to investigate long-term mitigation plans to prevent any further erosion adjacent to the terminal groin.
Saving homes or beaches? NC faces tough call on seawall ban A new report says placing hardened structures along the N.C. oceanfront could help with chronic erosion woes. But they come with plenty of risk. North Carolina’s love-hate relationship with hardened structures along the oceanfront is heating up. From the Outer Banks in the north to Ocean Isle Beach in the south, many portions of North Carolina’s 320 miles of oceanfront are dealing with erosion woes that are threatening homes, infrastructure and coastal economies. Coastal officials have long complained that the state’s ban, although softened in recent years, on hardened structures along the oceanfront like seawalls and jetties leaves them with few options beyond expensive beach nourishment to deal with the shifting sands. Environmentalists and others say the ban protects the natural beauty and feel of North Carolina’s beaches while reinforcing that there are simply some places that we shouldn’t be developing. They also note that hardened structures often do little but move the erosion woes to other parts of the beachfront. In June 2026, the N.C. Coastal Resources Commission’s Science Panel released its draft report on the effects of hardened structures on the coast. The report, while not taking sides on the state’s four-decade-long ban on permanent structures along the beachfront, is meant to provide guidance for regulators and policymakers as they debate the emotionally charged issue.
How did we get here? North Carolina’s existing rules on oceanfront construction are largely based on using a 30-year setback rule. The thinking was that a 30-year window of sand and dunes in front of a structure would give homeowners and local communities a chance to come up with a long-term solution if the ocean started encroaching on oceanfront properties. But structures these days often last longer than 30 years, and the environmental conditions of the 1970s aren’t the same as those the coast is facing today. Storms are bigger and more powerful than those of last century thanks to climate change, and sea-level rise is increasing. Sea level is expected to rise by a foot or more by 2050 from today’s levels, amplifying the impacts of tidal flooding and storms that aren’t even tropical in nature. As environmental conditions grow more challenging, oceanfront homes are tumbling into the water. In Rodanthe and Buxton on the Outer Banks, more than 30 homes have collapsed since 2020. Closer to Wilmington, sandbags now line stretches of beachfront in North Topsail Beach, Figure Eight Island and Ocean Isle Beach, offering the last line of protection for million-dollar homes.
‘Maintain a cautious approach’ With pressure mounting on officials to come up with some solutions to disappearing beaches, the science panel was asked to look into shoreline management, both in N.C. and other states, and examine the pros and cons of different measures − particularly the use of oceanfront hardened structures. “Recent erosion impacts in several North Carolina oceanfront communities have brought shoreline management issues back to the forefront, prompting questions about whether alternatives to beach nourishment should be considered to address chronic erosion,” states the report. But the science panel makes it crystal clear that hardening the shoreline to prevent the natural movement of beaches and dunes landward will likely lead to, first, a narrower and then likely a disappearing beach in front of the structure. Groins and jetties, while helping the beach adjacent to them, also end up “starving” beach areas downdrift of the structures. The volunteer panel, however, also noted that securing the shoreline could offer coastal communities an economic lifeline. “The panel therefore recommends that North Carolina maintain a cautious approach to any expansion of the use of hardened structuresand that any major reconsideration of the state’s oceanfront management policies include a broad and comprehensive assessment of the physical, ecological, recreational, and economic consequences of expanded use, including consideration of who will likely benefit and who will likely suffer adverse effects, prior to policy modification,” the report states.
Legislators getting involved As erosion threatens more oceanfront properties, infrastructure, and the coast’s vital tourism industry, legislators are taking notice and proposing solutions. A bill working its way through the N.C. General Assembly could permanently change the face of the state’s coast. Senate Bill 1009, would lift the state ban on hardened structures, including seawalls, jetties and terminal groins, low-slung structures built perpendicular to the shoreline that helps trap sand in areas of high erosion, such as near inlets. Proponents of the legislation say times along the coast have changed, and state policy needs to match the new realities that residents, visitors and local officials are dealing with along the oceanfront. While current rules push beach communities to favor nourishment, enhanced dune systems, and other “natural” approaches to shoreline management, some say more permanent and immediate solutions are sometimes required. Beach nourishment isn’t cheap, with even small projects costing millions, and can be a regulatory challenge if you have to find compatible beach sand that is often in short supply. In places like the Outer Banks, officials have said trying to maintain more than 80 miles of beachfront simply isn’t feasible under current rules and regulations. And to be truly effective, nourishments have to be repeated every few years due to natural erosion and storm-related events − heaping more pressure on state and local budgets that already face a lot of funding priorities. Environmentalists and coastal advocates say installing hardened structures to control erosion means picking winners and losers along the oceanfront, since they will end up taking sand from other parts of the beachfront. There also can be environmental impacts, such as the loss of habitat and beaches for nesting sea turtles and shorebirds. Greg “Rudi” Rudolph, a member of the science panel, said there’s no “magic bullet” for North Carolina’s oceanfront erosion issues, with each possible solution carrying pros and cons. He also said many of the shoreline management tools need to be done in conjunction with each other to offer a truly effective long-term solution, such as a groin and periodic nourishment. “There are trade-offs, there are benefits, and there are costs,” Rudolph said. “That’s what makes this so challenging.” Read more » click here
Odds & Ends
This beach ranks No. 1 in NC. Here’s what makes it an ‘idyllic’ getaway spot A coastal destination has a peaceful setting — and was named the best beach in North Carolina. Holden Beach ranks No. 1 on a list of the state’s top places for sun and surf. And in a state that boasts hundreds of miles of coastline, plenty of popular beach destinations earned spots in the top 10. “Sandy expanses in the Tar Heel State are often remote and rarely crowded, and a charming Southern coastal town is seldom far away,” USA Today’s 10Best wrote in its May 27 report. To create the list, 10Best said it asked travel experts to nominate top-notch beaches across the state. Editors narrowed down the list of nominations before readers could spend a month voting on their favorites.
What makes Holden Beach special? On the resulting list of readers’ choice award winners, Holden Beach rose to the top. The town is in Brunswick County, near the South Carolina border and a roughly 40-mile drive from Wilmington. “With a particularly idyllic atmosphere thanks to its low population, Holden Beach is perfect for a relaxed seaside getaway,” 10Best wrote in its report. “Golfing is a popular hobby across the area, while visitors gather along the town’s shores to scour the tide for shells and even watch hatching sea turtles during the summer months.” Holden Beach has fewer than 1,000 year-round residents but can swell with tourists. The town boasts roughly 8 miles of beachfront and calls itself a family-friendly destination, according to its website and the holdenbeachnc.com tourism guide. “Holden Beach is proud of what we do not have,” the town wrote. “We are primarily a residential community, with a small commercial area. Holden Beach is a great place to relax, enjoy the beach and the natural wildlife that surrounds us.”
Which other NC beaches rank high?
Here are the other North Carolina destinations that earned spots on the 10Best list:
Surf City at No. 2
Atlantic Beach at No. 3
Topsail Beach at No. 4
Carolina Beach at No. 5
Cape Lookout National Seashore at No. 6
Corolla at No. 7
Indian Beach at No. 8
Wrightsville Beach at No. 9
Kure Beach at No. 10
Holden Beach was crowned the winner after it landed at No. 3 in last year’s rankings. More recently, other North Carolina getaway spots have surged into the spotlight. The Outer Banks barrier islands ranked among the nation’s best places for family vacations. And the town of Beaufort was named a fan-favorite coastal destination, The Charlotte Observer and The News & Observer previously reported. In the past, 10Best has told The N&O it doesn’t share the number of people who vote in its contests. Read more » click here
This Brunswick County beach is a top summer ‘playcation’ destination A Brunswick County beach is emerging as a popular vacation destination this summer, according to Airbnb. The rental agency says several North Carolina coastal towns are seeing an increase in summer travel, exemplifying a growing vacation trend across the country. Airbnb released a report on May 8, 2026, that revealed how people in the United States are traveling this summer. The report says that Airbnb has seen a noticeable increase in domestic travel so far. It also highlighted several trends, including a rise in what Airbnb calls “playcations.” Airbnb says that Holden Beach has been swept up in this trend as the town is shaping up to be one of the top destinations for summer.
What is a playcation? True to its name, a playcation is a vacation centered around play. According to Airbnb, “Action-packed adult ‘playcations’ are defining summer travel in the US, with travelers seeking out nearby destinations to partake in their favorite activities.” As a result, Airbnb said that listings near golf courses, lakefronts, and surf spots have seen some of the highest booking growth for this summer. Simply put, Airbnb says that adults are traveling to places with lots of activities available. As far as Holden Beach goes, Airbnb says “mellow surfing conditions and a laid-back vibe” are putting the town on the map for travelers. And while Airbnb didn’t specifically take note of it, Holden Beach is also in close proximity to several golf courses, another popular element of playcations. Two other coastal towns in North Carolina — Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head — were also highlighted in Airbnb’s summer trends report.
Things to do in Holden Beach
Even if you aren’t surfing, there’s plenty to do in and around Holden Beach.
Olden Holden Bike Tour: Learn a bit about the island’s history and take in the natural beauty with this bike tour. Visit the town’s parks and recreation webpage for a downloadable map.
Magic Mountain Fun Park: Kids and adults can cool off on the water slides. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 3399 Holden Beach Road S.W., 910-842-2727.
Treasure Island Mini Golf and Arcade: A miniature golf course, an indoor arcade, and more than 30 flavors of ice cream await. Open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., 3445 Holden Beach Road SW, 910-212-6838.
Despite not having a pier we still managed to be a top summer destination
Hmm!
The beaches are the economic engine of our tourism-based economy.
Beach Access Trash Receptacles
Previously reported – April 2026 Staff will be moving receptacles to the roadside of the beach accesses. This will be easier to maintain even in the middle of the day when beach access is difficult. Despite objections from Commissioner Myers the majority of the Board decided to allow them to try this.
I strongly oppose this decision. I walk the beach strand four days a week and routinely pick up trash. Even though trash cans are out there, I typically pick up one to two bags per day this time of year, and more than three bags daily during peak tourist season. Based on this firsthand experience, I can say with confidence that reducing or removing trash cans will make an existing problem significantly worse.When trash cans are full, people leave their garbage next to them. When cans are removed, due to storm events, people continue to leave trash where the cans used to be. This behavior is consistent and predictable, and it is unlikely to change. Expecting the public to walk off the strand and up to street-level disposal points is unrealistic—they simply don’t or won’t do it. If anything, we should be making disposal easier, not more difficult. The practical solution is clear: more trash cans and more frequent pickups, especially during peak seasons. This service is currently funded through the BPART account, so cost should not be a barrier to maintaining or improving it. There are also logistical inconsistencies that need to be addressed. For example, some trash cans on the strand are located in front of oceanfront homes where there is no public beach access. What is the plan for locations like this? As it stands, this approach gives the impression that operational convenience is being prioritized over maintaining a clean and safe public environment. Additionally, the suggestion that mid-day pickups are too difficult does not reflect operational reality. Trash collection should occur early each morning on a daily basis to prevent overflow issues. With proper enforcement of ordinance (§94.06), including maintaining the required ten-foot corridor adjacent to the dunes, there should be adequate access for collection vehicles—even if a mid-day schedule is required. In short, reducing or removing trash cans will result in more trash on our beach.
Editor’s note – If you would like to share your perspective on this matter, I encourage you to reach out to the Town Manager and the Board of Commissioners. Your input is valuable and can help inform their decisions.
THB Newsletter (06/26/26) MANDATORY Water Conservation Alert Issued Brunswick County has moved to a Stage 2 MANDATORY Water Conservation Alert that encourages compliance through both warnings and fees. Residents are urged to follow best practices to help ensure water is available for essential needs and to prevent the need for additional measures or restrictions.
Under a Stage 2 MANDATORY Water Conservation Alert, water system customers are required to make adjustments to their water usage habits to appreciably reduce peak demands by at least 10%. It requires water customers to only use their irrigation systems between the hours of 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. on their respective days:
All address numbers: No irrigation on Mondays
Odd address numbers and non-addressed facilities: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday (only between 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.)
Even address numbers: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
(only between 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.)
Brunswick County issues mandatory water restrictions Brunswick County Public Utilities customers must restrict the times and days in which they use irrigation systems or face possible fines. The county is now under extreme drought conditions, according to the most recent update from the North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council. Drought conditions are “contributing significantly” to rising irrigation demands and “the availability of source water from the Cape Fear River,” according to a county release. To prevent the need for additional water restrictions, particularly as the Fourth of July holiday weekend approaches, the county announced it has moved to a stage 2 mandatory water conservation alert. The alert applies to residents in unincorporated areas of the county, Boiling Spring Lakes, Bolivia, Calabash, Carolina Shores, Caswell Beach, Navassa, Northwest, Sandy Creek, Shallotte, Southport, St. James, Sunset Beach, and Varnamtown. Customers of Bald Head Island, Holden Beach, Oak Island and Ocean Isle Beach utilities, which receive their water from Brunswick County Public Utilities, are under the same restrictions. “Brunswick County asks these customers to diligently use water wisely,” according to a county release. “Demand for water has exceeded 90% of the available production and distribution capacity. As Independence Day approaches, water demands are expected to increase.” Water customers may not use their irrigation systems on Mondays. Customers with odd address numbers and non-addressed facilities may irrigate on Tuesday, Thursdays and Saturdays. Those with even address numbers may use their irrigation systems on Wednesday, Fridays and Sundays. Irrigation systems may only be used between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. This includes irrigation for residential lawns, landscaping, athletic fields, and golf courses that do not use private groundwater wells or reclaimed water. A complete list of prohibited uses of water is available online. Brunswick County Public Utilities will notify properties that may be out of compliance with the mandatory irrigation schedule “or other required actions” through the ReadyBrunswick notification system or contact information associated with the property’s utility account. Calls or messages through the BrunswickReady system will be made from 910-253-1977. Those who do not comply may be assessed with fees up to $300 and disconnection of their water service. Habitual offenders of the alert may receive penalties of up to $5,000 and water disconnection. County officials will continue monitoring drought conditions and water usage to determine whether to move to the next water shortage warning stage. A stage 3 water shortage warning prohibits the use of automatic sprinkler systems for residential and commercial lawn and landscapes. The alert does not apply to customers of Brunswick Regional – H2GO, private groundwater well users, or those using highly treated reclaimed wastewater. Residents may directly contact their water service provider with questions or Brunswick County Public Utilities at 910.253.2657 or utilityadmin@brunswickcountync.gov. Additional information and updates may be found at brunswickcountync.gov/WaterWise. Read more » click here
County under mandatory water conservation alert as drought conditions worsen As drought conditions continue to worsen and Independence Day weekend approaches, Brunswick County has moved to a Stage 2 mandatory Water Conservation Alert that encourages compliance through both warnings and fees. This mandatory alert was issued after the C section of this edition of The Brunswick Beacon was printed. On pages C8 and C11, it is noted the county was recommending residents take action to limit water use. Those recommendations are now mandatory. Residents are urged to follow best practices to help ensure water is available for essential needs and to prevent the need for additional measures or restrictions. Drought conditions are exacerbating demands on water, particularly related to irrigation use. Irrigation demands represent the bulk of non-essential water use, so a primary way that customers can reduce water usage is to limit irrigation. The North Carolina Drought Management Council has classified the drought in Brunswick County as an Extreme Drought (D3) condition, which is contributing significantly to the increase in irrigation demands and the availability of source water from the Cape Fear River. Extreme Drought is the second-highest tier on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale and North Carolina statutes mandate that water systems implement significant water conservation measures. When Brunswick County issued a Stage 1 Voluntary Water Conservation Alert on June 9, parts of Brunswick County were only under Severe Drought (D2) conditions. Now, a majority of the county is under Extreme Drought (D3) conditions.
In accordance with the original voluntary water usage adjustments updated on June 25, the Stage 2 mandatory Water Conservation Alert requires water customers to only use their irrigation systems between the hours of 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. on their respective days (this includes irrigation for residential lawns, landscaping, athletic fields, golf courses that do not use private groundwater wells or reclaimed water, etc.):
All address numbers: No irrigation on Mondays.
Odd address numbers and non-addressed facilities: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday (only between 8 p.m. to 4 a.m.).
Even address numbers: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday (only between 8 p.m. to 4 a.m.).
A key difference between the Stage 1 Voluntary Water Conservation Alert and the Stage 2 mandatory Water Conservation Alert is that non-compliance may result in the assessment of significant fees and possible discontinuation of water service. Brunswick County will be monitoring irrigation use as long as the Stage 2 Water Conservation Alert is in place. Brunswick County Public Utilities will notify properties that may be out of compliance with the mandatory irrigation schedule or other required actions through the ReadyBrunswick notification system and/or using the contact information associated with the property’s utility account. Phone calls or messages issued through the ReadyBrunswick notification system will come from the phone number (910) 253-1799 (this phone number is automated and cannot receive incoming calls). Brunswick County will continue to monitor the drought conditions and water usage to determine whether a Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning with Mandatory Restrictions may become necessary. In Stage 3, any use of automatic sprinkler systems for residential and commercial lawn and landscape irrigation is prohibited.
Who Is Affected by This Mandatory Water Conservation Alert?
This water conservation alert affects all customers of the following public water systems:
Brunswick County Public Utilities Customers (see below for more details).
Bald Head Island Utilities Customers.
Holden Beach Utilities Customers.
Oak Island Utilities Customers.
Ocean Isle Beach Utilities Customers.
Brunswick County Public Utilities provides water service in unincorporated portions of Brunswick County as well as the following communities: Boiling Spring Lakes, Bolivia, Calabash, Carolina Shores, Caswell Beach, Navassa, Northwest, Sandy Creek, Shallotte, Southport, St. James, Sunset Beach and Varnamtown. Brunswick County asks these customers to diligently use water wisely. Demand for water has exceeded 90% of the available production and distribution capacity. As Independence Day approaches, water demands are expected to increase. Utilities customers of Bald Head Island, Holden Beach, Oak Island, and Ocean Isle Beach are under the same restrictions since these utilities receive their water from Brunswick County Public Utilities.
Who is NOT Affected by This Water Conservation Alert?
This alert does not apply to customers of Brunswick Regional — H2GO. Check Brunswick Regional — H2GO’s website for information about any water conservation or best practices they may have issued for their customers at h2gonc.gov.
This alert does not affect the use of private groundwater wells or those using highly treated reclaimed wastewater (St. James, Winding River, Sea Trail and Sandpiper Bay golf courses use reclaimed water; other golf courses use wells and ponds for irrigation).
The cooperation of all water customers is essential during a Stage 2 mandatory Water Conservation Alert. Failure to comply may result in the assessment of the non-compliance fees up to $300 and water disconnection for standard non-compliance. If allowed to reconnect after disconnection, reconnection fees would also apply. Habitual and/or gross offenses of the mandatory Stage 2 Water Conservation Alert may receive penalties of up to $5,000 and water disconnection. This is not a water quality advisory, it is a mandatory water conservation alert. There is no need to boil water for potable use unless you receive a low-pressure advisory notice for your specific area due to other conditions in the water distribution system. Residents will be notified if any other conservation measures are needed and when conditions dictate that restrictions are no longer required. Residents who have questions should contact their water service provider directly or Brunswick County Public Utilities at (910) 253-2657 or utilityadmin@brunswickcountync.gov. A full list of the county’s best water usage practices is included on page C11 of this paper. Information and any updates can be found at brunswickcountync.gov/WaterWise. Read more » click here
Brunswick County warns of total lawn watering ban if drought doesn’t ease Brunswick County is warning residents that a complete ban on automatic lawn and landscape irrigation could be coming if extreme drought conditions do not improve. The county is currently under a Stage 2 Mandatory Water Conservation Alert, driven by Extreme Drought, designated D3 on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale, the second-highest tier. If conditions worsen, officials said a Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning would prohibit all automatic sprinkler use for residential and commercial properties. The Stage 2 designation carries legal weight. Unlike the previous Stage 1 voluntary alert, residents who do not follow the mandatory irrigation schedule can face significant fees and water service termination. Brunswick County Public Utilities said it is actively monitoring irrigation use. Properties found out of compliance will be contacted through the ReadyBrunswick notification system or via the utility account on file. Automated calls will come from 910-253-1799, which cannot receive incoming calls, officials said.
Under the mandatory schedule, irrigation is limited to less than one inch of water per week and may only run between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. on designated nights, determined by address number:
Odd-numbered addresses (ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9) and non-addressed facilities: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
Even-numbered addresses (ending in 2, 4, 6, 8, or 0):
Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays — plus midnight to 4 a.m. on Mondays
No irrigation is permitted for odd addresses on Mondays
The restrictions apply to residential lawns, landscaping, athletic fields, and golf courses not using private groundwater wells or reclaimed water. Residents can find updates here. Read more » click here
Worst drought in 15 years strains water system Brunswick County’s extreme drought condition has prompted mandatory water conservation measures as high demand pushes the county’s water system beyond its normal operating capacity. The North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council (DMAC) recently classified most of Brunswick County as being in extreme drought, the second highest category on the U.S. Drought Monitor. It marks the first time the county has reached the classification since 2011. Based on precipitation from January through May, 2026 is already the third driest year in the past 132 years in the county, according to the National Integrated Drought System. Following another week of below-average rainfall, streamflow’s in the lower Cape Fear basin reached daily record lows, according to the DMAC’s June 23 update. Those conditions on June 26 triggered Brunswick County’s Stage 2 Mandatory Water Conservation Alert, which requires customers served by Brunswick County Utilities and the municipalities that purchase county water to limit irrigation to designated days between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. Brunswick County Code of Ordinances Sec. 1-13-142 lists all the activities that are prohibited during a stage 2 water shortage emergency. This list includes washing the exterior of homes, filling newly constructed swimming pools and intentionally wasting water. Brunswick County Public Utilities Director John Nichols said the current problem is demand. It is not that there is a lack of available water supply for our system to distribute, but rather that irrigation demand because of this year’s dryness has spiked the watering of grass. “While water levels have been lower during the drought,” Nichols said, “we haven’t seen them get to a point that really affected the amount of water that we could take in from the Cape Fear River.” The county draws water from the Cape Fear River at its Northwest Water Treatment Plant and supplements that supply with groundwater from the Castle Hayne aquifer. Nichols said the groundwater plant has so far been able to supply sufficient water and that he has not yet seen a significant decline in the aquifer. Instead, the challenge is the sheer volume of water customers are using at the same time. Demand has exceeded 90% of the county’s permitted treatment capacity. While the county’s treatment facilities are capable of temporarily producing more than their permitted capacity, doing so can reduce water pressure throughout the distribution system, Nichols said. “It’s not a good situation for us to be in,” Nichols said, “and we try to avoid that through conservation measures.” Lower water pressure is more likely to occur in areas served by smaller water mains, though those locations are scattered throughout the county. Maintaining adequate pressure is critical for essential services, and that includes fire protection, Nichols said. Before the restrictions took effect, the county’s highest water demand typically occurred between about 4 a.m. and 11 a.m., when many irrigation systems automatically turned on. Since the stage 2 alert went into effect June 26, Nichols said that peak has shifted to around 8 p.m., when irrigation is first allowed under the mandatory schedule. He thanked customers who are meeting the requested schedule. “That spreads out our peak on the system,” Nichols said, “and allows us to maintain essential water in our storage tanks for firefighting capabilities.” The county is currently giving customers time to adjust before issuing penalties. Using its advanced metering infrastructure, Brunswick County monitors irrigation use and sends daily notices to customers whose watering schedules appear to be out of compliance, Nichols said. “We do recognize it takes some time to change your irrigation schedule,” Nichols said, “but there will be a time when we will assess [fees].” Under the stage 2 mandatory conservation alert, customers who repeatedly fail to comply may face fees or possible water service disconnection. Municipalities that have their own water systems may also monitor irrigation and assess fees, Nichols said. Brunswick County is experiencing a residential development boom that has caused many residents to question whether rapid development led to this water shortage. Nichols acknowledged that development is increasing the need for water but said that the county is prepared. It has a “comprehensive and robust master plan” that has more than $1 billion in water system upgrades scheduled over the next 20 years, he said. “We recognize what needs to be done,” Nichols said, “and we’re taking steps to do it. … I think the key thing is we’re having a really significant drought right now, but also our Northwest Water Treatment Plant has been delayed, so that’s had a significant impact on the production.” The plant upgrade is scheduled to finish in September, according to the contractor’s latest schedule, Nichols said. The new plant will have roughly double the production capacity and provide reverse-osmosis treatment. While the North Carolina Supreme Court has prohibited counties from imposing many types of impact fees on developers, Brunswick County does impose system development fees. Those fees are used only for expansion projects, Nichols said. Some of the cost incurred by development, however, does fall on existing taxpayers. Read more » click here
THB Newsletter (07/10/26) Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions
As of July 10, 2026, Brunswick County has moved to a Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions until further notice due to worsening drought conditions. Under Stage 3, all automated outdoor irrigation is prohibited. Full details about all the restrictions are outlined at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise.
Nearly a third of Brunswick County is now under an Exceptional Drought (D4), which is the highest tier of drought possible. Under the Stage 3 alert level, water customers are required to adjust their water usage habits by following the MANDATORY water usage adjustments.
Holden Beach is monitoring water usage for all water customers and will be issuing penalties for violations.
THB Newsletter (07/17/26) Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions
Due to the Exceptional Drought conditions, Brunswick County will remain under the Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning but will make slight changes to the MANDATORY restrictions list to allow for the use of automated irrigation systems once a week only (see below). This limited schedule would apply to automatic sprinkler systems for residential and commercial lawn and landscape irrigation.
Brunswick County will continue to monitor the drought conditions and water use to determine whether any changes to the Stage 3 Mandatory Restrictions (including the new limited irrigation schedule) may become necessary.
MANDATORY Schedule — Penalties for Non-Compliance Apply
Under this Stage 3 Limited Irrigation Schedule, water customers may only water lawns and landscaping with automatic irrigation systems (spray irrigation, drip irrigation, etc.) less than one inch of water per week, between the hours of 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. on their designated day (see below).
Properties with odd-numbered addresses (ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) and non-addressed facilities may irrigate during the consecutive 8-hour period from 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday through 4:00 a.m. Wednesday
Properties with even-numbered addresses (ending in 2, 4, 6, 8, 0) may irrigate during the consecutive 8-hour period from 8:00 p.m. on Friday through 4:00 a.m. Saturday
Holden Beach is monitoring water usage for all water customers and will be issuing penalties for violations. A full list of MANDATORY water usage adjustments and any exceptions can be found online at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise.
Stage 3 MANDATORY Water Restrictions Now In Effect — Use Water Wisely
Current Water Conservation Alert Level:
Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions
As of July 10, 2026, Brunswick County has moved to a Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions until further notice due to worsening drought conditions. Under Stage 3, all automated outdoor irrigation is prohibited. There are certain exemptions for commercial power washing and commercial car washing. Full details about all restrictions and fees are outlined on this webpage.
Nearly a third of Brunswick County is now under an Exceptional Drought (D4), which is the highest tier of drought possible.Under the Stage 3 alert level, Brunswick County Public Utilities water customers are required to adjust their water usage habits by following the MANDATORY water usage adjustments.
Brunswick County is monitoring water usage for all water customers using the County’s public water system and is issuing penalties for violations.This applies to all water customers, including wholesale customers, residents, businesses, new developments, etc. Learn more about the Stage 3 non-compliance penalties and fees below.
Brunswick County is actively monitoring the drought conditions and customers’ water usage to determine whether a Stage 4 Water Shortage Warning with Mandatory Restrictions may become necessary. In Stage 4, most outdoor irrigation methods are prohibited and penalties for non-compliance will increase.
Stage 3 Water Shortage Alert: Addressing Water Usage Questions
PUBLIC NOTICE Brunswick County appreciates the cooperation and commitment of our water customers who have taken diligent steps to follow the Stage 3 Water Shortage Warning MANDATORY Restrictions and the local burn ban while Exceptional Drought (D4) conditions are affecting our county. Exceptional Drought (D4) is the highest tier of drought possible on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale.
Your efforts to limit irrigation and other non-essential uses of water in and around your property are making a significant impact on protecting our water resources and public safety during this Exceptional Drought period. Thank you for helping spread out the demands on our public water system.
Addressing Questions About Water Usage Under Stage 3 Restrictions Brunswick County has received some questions about allowed water usage under Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions that we wish to clarify for customers. Thank you for your questions and patience as we work together to help conserve water during this Exceptional Drought period.
Can I fill my pool under Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions? The filling of family, public, or private swimming pools, including wading pools, hot tubs, spas, and whirlpool tubs, is prohibited, except for:
Health and rehabilitative purposes as prescribed by a medical doctor or administered by a medical facility (documentation of fill dates to be provided upon request);
The minimal amount of make-up water necessary to maintain a pool’s structural integrity and filtration system (documentation to be provided upon request); and
The minimal amount of water required to initially fill a pool to meet the manufacturer’s or designer’s requirements for structural integrity. The filling of the pool must be scheduled with Brunswick County Utilities during a minimal demand time. Contact Brunswick County Public Utilities to schedule via email at utilityadmin@brunswickcountync.gov.
Can irrigation companies and licensed inspectors test irrigation systems under Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions? Yes, irrigation companies and licensed inspectors performing home irrigation inspections can run irrigation systems for up to five (5) minutes for testing. Please provide an invoice or other documentation (inclusive of the inspection date) to the property owner in the event their account is flagged for non-compliant irrigating.
Can I irrigate recently installed sod under Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions? Automated outdoor irrigation can be used for maintaining newly installed landscapes, lawns, and erosion control projects that are under a written warranty and that were initiated prior to the issuance of the Extreme Drought Advisory on June 26, 2026, not to exceed the minimum rate necessary on the day of installation and for 28 days following installation, by means designed and operated to maximize water use efficiency and to prevent run-off and excessive watering. Documentation verifying the installation date (inclusive of digitally date-stamped photos, the warranty, receipts with installation address, name, and phone number, etc.) must be provided via email to Brunswick County at utilityadmin@brunswickcountync.gov, and an approval email from Brunswick County must be received and kept in possession prior to irrigating.
Who is affected by these Stage 3 MANDATORY Water Restrictions? This Stage 3 MANDATORY Alert affects all customers of the following public water systems:
Brunswick County Public Utilities Customers (see paragraph below for more details)
Bald Head Island Utilities Customers
Holden Beach Utilities Customers
Oak Island Utilities Customers
Ocean Isle Beach Utilities Customers
Brunswick County Public Utilities provides water service in unincorporated portions of Brunswick County as well as the following communities: Boiling Spring Lakes, Bolivia, Calabash, Carolina Shores, Caswell Beach, Navassa, Northwest, Sandy Creek, Shallotte, Southport, St. James, Sunset Beach, and Varnamtown.
Utilities customers of Bald Head Island, Holden Beach, Oak Island, and Ocean Isle Beach are under the same restrictions since these utilities receive their water from Brunswick County Public Utilities.
Who is NOT affected by these Stage 3 MANDATORY Water Restrictions? This Stage 3 MANDATORY Alert does NOT apply to properties that use water sources outside of the County’s public water system.
Brunswick County Public Utilities does NOT have the authority to restrict, meter, or penalize water usage from private water sources such as:
Private groundwater wells
Retention ponds
Brunswick Regional – H2GO’s water system. Customers of Brunswick Regional – H2GO should check their website for information about any water conservation or best practices they may have issued for their customers: h2gonc.gov
Note: Many new developments, businesses, and golf courses irrigate using highly treated reclaimed water and other water sources outside of the County’s public water system. (St. James, Winding River, Sea Trail, and Sandpiper Bay golf courses use reclaimed water. Other golf courses use wells and ponds for irrigation.)
Why is Brunswick County Public Utilities under more strict restrictions than other utility systems? Every utility system has their own Water Shortage Response Plan that they follow to determine when to issue voluntary or mandatory water alerts. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor map released on July 9, 2026, Brunswick County is currently under Exceptional Drought (D4) conditions, which is the highest tier possible on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale.
When Brunswick County issued a Stage 2 Mandatory Water Conservation Alert on June 26, 2026, a majority of Brunswick County was under Extreme Drought (D3) conditions. Nearly a third of Brunswick County is now under Exceptional Drought (D4) conditions, which is contributing significantly to the increase in irrigation demands and may impact the availability of source water from the Cape Fear River.
Where can I find more information about Stage 3 Water Shortage restrictions? A full list of MANDATORY water usage adjustments and any exceptions can be found online at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise.
Community members and property owners who have questions should contact their water service provider directly or Brunswick County Public Utilities at utilityadmin@brunswickcountync.gov or through our temporary call center. Call center information can be found at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/WaterWise. For more information » click here
Turtle Watch Program –
Turtle Watch Program – 2026
. .
The first nest of the 2025 season was on May 21st
Average annual number of nests is 45
Current nest count –(71) as of 07/25/26
Members of the patrol started riding the beach every morning on May 1 and will do so through October looking for signs of turtle nests. For more information » click here.
.Turtle Talks The Holden Beach Turtle Watch Program conducts weekly educational programs on selected Wednesday evenings in June, July and August. Please check our Events Calendar for details on dates, times and locations. Seating is limited.
Children’s Turtle Time Special programs for younger turtle enthusiasts are held at 4 p.m. on Wednesday afternoons in June, July and August on select dates.
Both programs arefree of charge and will be held at the Holden Beach Chapel.
How you can protect sea turtles at NC beaches during nesting season People aren’t the only folks flocking to North Carolina’s beaches as the weather warms up. In the coming weeks, beachgoers could find themselves sharing the sand with mamma sea turtles and shorebirds looking for a spot to start a new family. Already, skimmers, oystercatchers and other birds are vying for space on the sandy spits at the tips of barrier islands like Wrightsville Beach, and North Carolina has already seen one false crawl by a sea turtle even though sea turtle nesting season doesn’t generally start until May 1, according to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. But sharing the beach can be a challenge, with the deck largely stacked against coastal wildlife as the lure of sand and the ocean keeps attracting more and more people to the N.C. coast − never mind the other challenges the animals face in the wild off the beach. Still, officials say following a few simple rules can give the critters a flipper and wing up during their beach visit. “Seeing a sea turtle on the beach is a wonderful, rare experience,” said Terry Meyer, deputy and conservation director at the Karen Beasley Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City. “But just keep a respectful distance while enjoying it.”
One in 1,000 Sea turtle nesting season in North Carolina occurs from May through September. Female sea turtles emerge from the ocean at night, and using their flippers, dig an 18-inch-deep hole that will serve as the nest where she will deposit 80 to 120 eggs. After laying the eggs, she covers the nest and returns to sea. After about a 60-day incubation period, the hatchlings emerge and make their way to the ocean. Only about one in 1,000 hatchlings will live to reproduce. In 2025 North Carolina recorded 1,088 nests, with the first one recorded on Topsail Island on May 8, 2025. The first nest to emerge was a Kemp’s Ridley nest on Ocean Isle Beach on July 10, 2025. The vast majority of North Carolina nests were laid by loggerheads. Green sea turtle nest numbers are slowly increasing in the state, with Tar Heel beaches seeing 58 last year. There also were 10 Kemp’s Ridley nests.
Range of threats Both in the water and on land, sea turtles face a range of threats. In the ocean, dangers range from entanglement in fishing gear to boat strikes to ingesting plastics and other trash. But that’s if the hatchlings even make it off the beach to have a life at sea. “Our No. 1 greatest threat by far is artificial lighting,” Meyer said. She said it’s the biggest concern because the lights can not only disorientate the nesting female as she comes ashore, but also hatchlings as they move toward the brightest light they see when they come out of their nest. In a perfect world, that’s the moon or the stars as they make their way toward the ocean. And it isn’t just exterior lighting that is a problem. Meyer said a recent study found 57% of the light pollution along the Topsail Island beachfront was from interior lights − a major concern since many oceanfront homes don’t have shades or curtains on their ocean-facing windows. Factor in a rotating mix of residents as vacationers cycle on and off the island almost weekly and it’s a constant battle for the turtle volunteers and others to get the message about lighting out there. “We just can’t stay ahead of the light situation,” Meyer said, noting volunteers hand out door hangers warning about the danger of keeping lights on at night and promote the use of turtle-friendly ambient light bulbs for exterior uses instead of traditional bulbs. “It’s definitely a challenge.” Predators like foxes and raccoons along with overanxious tourists eager to see and get selfies with a giant marine reptile that predates the dinosaurs are other challenges nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings can face. Climate change also is a growing concern. On the beach, the warming weather is increasing sand temperatures, which helps determine the sex of hatchlings as the buried eggs incubate. If the beach is warmer than 89 degrees, most of the hatchlings will be female; if it’s cooler more will be male. For a long time, researchers have believed that the cooler beaches in the Carolinas produced males to mate with the female-heavy hatchlings produced by the warmer beaches in Florida and along the Gulf Coast. But what will happen if all the country’s beaches get so warm that the vast majority of hatchlings are female? A warming climate, which scientists are predicting for North Carolina in the coming years, also could impact when sea turtles nest, prompting turtles to lumber ashore earlier than the traditional May start date.
‘Fill in those holes’ The Topsail Turtle Project, run by the sea turtle hospital, monitors the beaches in Topsail Beach, Surf City and North Topsail Beach. With volunteer groups in other beach towns along with federal and state agencies, officials monitor all 330 miles of ocean-facing sandy beaches in N.C. for sea turtle nests, stranded animals and even signs of false crawls. “We want them all counted, all documented,” Meyer said. “We want to know how many turtles we have.” If an injured or stressed sea turtle is found, it often ends up at the sea turtle hospital. As of April 21, the turtle hospital was treating 45 patients − most cold-stun victims from this winter that were slowly being nursed back to health. Kathy Zagzebski, the hospital’s executive director, said during the busy fall and winter season the facility sometimes deals with more than 100 turtles at a time, many cold-stunned animals brought down from New England for treatment. Recovery times can often take several months per turtle. As the weather warms up, the hospital sees fewer turtles being brought in suffering from hypothermia or other temperature-related issues. But the animals that are brought in are often those that have been accidently hooked by a fishermen or hit by a boat. “We usually see fewer turtles, but those that we do see probably require more treatment,” Kathy said. Like Meyer, Zagzebski said just taking a few steps and being considerate can help people and sea turtles better share the state’s coastal environment. “And fill in those holes,” she said, noting that holes dug on the beach can deter mother sea turtles from nesting and prevent hatchlings from reaching the ocean after they emerge from the nest. Read more » click here
The N.C. Sea Turtle Project works with 20 different volunteer groups. Contact information for each is available at nc-wild.org/seaturtles/contacts, or call the statewide sea turtle hotline at 252-241-7367.
How North Carolina sea turtles are faring this summer As the weather warms and the summer season heats up, people and turtles are crowding N.C. beaches. Here are some tips on how everyone can share the coast The height of summer along the N.C. coast means several things: People hitting the beach for a vacation; steaming and sticky temperatures; the occasional pop-up afternoon shower; and female sea turtles lumbering ashore looking for a place to nest. But sharing the beach can be a challenge, with the deck largely stacked against coastal wildlife as the lure of sand and the ocean keeps attracting more and more people to the N.C. coast − never mind the other obstacles sea turtles face in the wild off the beach. While adapted to dealing with soaring temperatures, climate change is another growing challenge the marine reptiles face that could have significant impacts on the species’ future. Here’s a mid-season look at sea turtle nesting in North Carolina, which represents just about the northern range of the animal’s nesting habitat.
Nesting so far in 2026 Sea turtle nesting season in North Carolina occurs from May through September. Female sea turtles emerge from the ocean at night, and using their flippers, dig an 18-inch-deep hole that will serve as the nest where she will deposit 80 to 120 eggs. After laying the eggs, she covers the nest and returns to sea. After about a 60-day incubation period, the hatchlings emerge and make their way to the ocean. Only about one in 1,000 hatchlings will live to reproduce. Through July 2, 2026, North Carolina beaches had been busy,with sea turtles laying 1,054 nests, representing an estimated 36,107 eggs, according to statistics compiled by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. As usual, the vast majority of nests are from loggerheads, with a handful of green and leatherback nests thrown in there. Areas with the most nests were Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Cape Lookout National Seashore, Oak Island, Topsail Island and Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. The first nest, surprisingly a leatherback, was recorded April 28 in Atlantic Beach, Carteret County. In 2025 North Carolina recorded 1,088 nests, with the first one recorded on Topsail Island on May 8, 2025. The first nest to emerge was a Kemp’s Ridley nest on Ocean Isle Beach on July 10, 2025. The state saw 1,385 nests in 2024, and 1,723 nests in 2023. That means 2026 is off to a generally strong start for the turtles, which have federal and state protections − although nest numbers can be highly variable from year to year.
Challenges mother and baby sea turtles face Natural predators and excited, curious humans are some of the challenges turtles face while trying to nest. Officials recommend viewing a sea turtle on the beach from a respectful distance. Nests also are marked to keep humans a safe distance away and often covered in anti-predator cages to prevent foxes, coyotes and raccoons from digging them up. Occasionally, nests also are relocated if they are buried in areas suffering from severe erosion or if threatened from over wash by storms. Even if a mother successfully nests and the hatchling emerge from the sand, the challenges aren’t over. One of the biggest threats baby sea turtles on the beach face is beach lighting. Lights can not only disorientate the nesting female as she comes ashore, but also hatchlings as they move toward the brightest light they see when they come out of their nest. In a perfect world, which should be the moon or the stars as they make their way toward the ocean. And it isn’t just exterior lighting that is a problem. A recent study on Topsail Island found 57% of the light pollution came from interior lights − a major concern since many oceanfront homes don’t have shades or curtains on their ocean-facing windows. Factor in a rotating mix of residents as vacationers cycle on and off the island almost weekly and it’s a constant battle for the turtle volunteers and others to get the message about lighting out there.
How rising temperatures could impact sea turtles Climate change also is a growing concern among turtle researchers. On the beach, the warming weather is increasing sand temperatures, which helps determine the sex of hatchlings as the buried eggs incubate. If the beach is warmer than 89 degrees, most of the hatchlings will be female; if it’s cooler more will be male. For a long time, researchers have believed that the cooler beaches in the Carolinas produced males to mate with the female-heavy hatchlings produced by the warmer beaches in Florida and along the Gulf Coast. But what will happen if all the country’s beaches get so warm that the vast majority of hatchlings are female? A warming climate, which scientists are predicting for North Carolina in the coming years, also could impact when sea turtles nest, prompting turtles to lumber ashore earlier than the traditional May start date.
Tips if you see a nesting sea turtle Here are some recommendations by the state wildlife commission on how beach visitors can help protect sea turtles during nesting season.
Minimize beachfront lighting by turning off, shielding or redirecting lights away from the beach.
Close blinds and curtains in oceanfront rooms at night to keep indoor lighting from reaching the beach.
Remove chairs, umbrellas, beach toys and boats from the beach at night so they don’t interfere with nesting sea turtles or hatchlings.
Use your natural vision and moonlight when walking the beach at night.
If you encounter a sea turtle on the beach, remain quiet and still and observe from a respectful distance.
If you encounter tracks on the beach, leave them alone. Researchers use them to determine the species of nesting turtle and to locate nest sites.
If you come across a sea turtle or a nest, contact the beach’s local sea turtle monitoring organization.
Contact information for the groups is available at nc-wild.org/seaturtles/contacts, or call the statewide sea turtle hotline at 252-241-7367. Read more » click here
North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox » click here
Fauna & Flora » click here Holden Beach recommended plant list – deer resistant & salt tolerant
5 native plants to transform your hot, dry Wilmington-area garden Wilmington has sandy soils and periods of intense heat and prolonged dry spells. Not everything grows well here, but these trees, shrubs and flowers do Wilmington isn’t New England, Ohio, Florida or even California. That’s one of the reason’s the Cape Fear region attracts so many new residents every year who might be looking for something a bit different from where they’ve previously lived. But for those newcomers looking to practice their green thumb, the region’s largely sandy soils mixed with stretches of intense heat and extended periods of dry weather can make maintaining a yard a challenge, because trees, shrubs and flowers that might grow well in the dark, rich soils of Pennsylvania will likely struggle down here. Choosing native greenery not only offers you a better chance of success, but also appeals to native wildlife, birds and pollinators. Climate change is another reason coastal homeowners might want to go native when it comes to their gardens. With natives often more drought- and heat-tolerant than non-native plants, and with longer periods of dry, hot weather forecast for North Carolina in coming decades, they could be a hardier bet than exotics from another part of the country or world. Native coastal plants are also generally better able to withstand salt water, which can make them a better alternative for waterfront homeowners with sea levels projected to keep rising in coming decades and tide surges set to increase. Here are five native and popular trees, shrubs and flowers that can offer gardeners a colorful kaleidoscope of choices that appeal to everyone and everything that might frequent your garden.
Yaupon holly An evergreen shrub common in the state’s coastal plain, Yaupon holly is a colorful, fast-growing plant that brings color to any garden in the form of while flowers in spring and red berries in the fall and winter. Yaupon holly comes with several built in advantages for homeowners, including that it is deer-resistant, quite drought tolerant, and can stomach even brackish water − making it perfect for coastal shoreline plantings. One thing to be cautious about, though, is that it’s highly flammable, so avoid planting close to homes or other structures.
Southern magnolia A large, broadleaf evergreen tree, the Southern magnolia is native to the American South, especially coastal areas from the Carolinas to Texas. The tree is popular among homeowners and landscapers thanks to its glossy green leaves and large, fragrant flowers. It is a common plant in many public area in the Wilmington area, including around Greenfield Lake and at Airlie Gardens. The tree, which can grow quite tall, up to 80 feet, and up to 40 feet wide, prefers a moist − but not overly wet − environment and partial shade, which makes it a popular understory tree. The tree also is popular with butterflies and other pollinators, although it is known to be susceptible to pests and its leaf droppings can be a nuisance in the fall.
Black-eyed Susan The black-eyed Susan is a fast-growing, native flower that thrives in North Carolina’s coastal climate and well-drained, dry soils. Quite drought-tolerant and loving full sun, the flower blooms from summer into fall. Extremely popular with pollinators, and unfortunately slugs and snails, too, the Susans can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. The flowers are often planted with other plants and flowers to produce a mix of size and colors that add a distinct feature to any garden.
Carolina jessamine A vine native to the South, the Carolina jessamine is often found climbing up fences, porch columns and trellises. Best grown in rich, well-drained soils in full sun, the vine is loved for its canary-yellow flowers and glossy evergreen foliage in the spring. The foliage then generally bronzes in winter. The jessamine is moderately tolerant of salt and can survive short droughts and has a moderate growth rate until well-established. Two concerns to note, though, are that the vine is highly flammable, so it shouldn’t be planted near structures, and its pollen is toxic to honeybee colonies.
Sweet pepperbush Another shrub that can add something special to summer garden, sweet pepperbush’s leaves turn golden brown in the fall. Once established the plant can withstand short periods of drought and flooding, and it is fire-resistant. The shrub’s flowers produce high quality nectar and pollen that supports hummingbirds, butterflies, bees and other pollinators.
NC coast is state’s greatest investment; new budget treats it so North Carolina’s coast is one of our state’s greatest assets. It is an economic engine, a source of food and livelihoods, a natural defense against storms, and an irreplaceable part of our heritage. That is why the budget recently approved by the North Carolina General Assembly deserves recognition. It makes meaningful investments that will benefit the coast, and the entire state, for years to come. At a time when bipartisan accomplishments can seem increasingly rare, legislators came together to protect our waters, strengthen coastal communities, and ensure that future generations inherit a healthier, more resilient coast. Among the important achievements is the establishment of permanent funding for the removal of abandoned and derelict vessels. These boats are more than eyesores. Left unattended, they pollute coastal waters, damage marshes and oyster habitat, threaten navigation and become even more hazardous after hurricanes. For the past several years, the North Carolina Coastal Federation has partnered with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, N.C. Department of Environmental Quality, and other organizations to build the state’s largest abandoned vessel removal program. Hundreds of vessels have been removed from public waters in the years following Hurricane Florence. That work has relied on a patchwork of temporary state, federal and private funding. Without a permanent solution, the program was in jeopardy. The General Assembly changed that in this year’s budget by providing recurring funds to remove abandoned and derelict vessels. With stable funding, North Carolina can respond more quickly after storms, attract additional federal dollars and keep dangerous vessels out of our coastal waters for years to come. Sen. Michael Lee of New Hanover County deserves special recognition for his sustained efforts and support for this funding. The budget also supports projects that improve water quality, strengthen coastal resilience and help preserve the natural resources that sustain both our economy and our quality of life. Healthy coastal waters and habitats support commercial and recreational fishing, tourism, military readiness, property values and local jobs throughout coastal North Carolina. Taken together, these investments recognize that protecting the coast is not simply an environmental priority, it is an economic one. These accomplishments did not happen by accident. They reflect years of collaboration among legislators, state agencies, local governments, conservation organizations, fishermen, business leaders and coastal residents who understand that good stewardship and a strong economy go hand in hand. Sen. Norm Sanderson and Rep. Celeste Cairns, both representing Carteret County, also deserve particular praise for their leadership on the Coastal Federation’s budget requests this year. And I want to recognize the many members and supporters of the North Carolina Coastal Federation. Our ability to advocate effectively — in coastal communities and in the halls of the Legislative Building in Raleigh — is possible only because thousands of citizens, businesses, foundations, and other partners invest in our mission. Their support gives us the expertise, credibility and persistence to work across party lines and help turn good ideas into public policy. Advocacy is often measured by what makes headlines. More often, however, it is built through patient relationship-building, sound science, practical problem-solving, and a willingness to find common ground. This year’s budget demonstrates what can happen when those ingredients come together. Of course, our work is far from finished. North Carolina continues to face growing challenges from storms and flooding, aging infrastructure, development pressures and changing coastal ecosystems. Meeting those challenges will require continued partnership, innovation, and sustained investment. This budget reminds us that protecting North Carolina’s coast is not a partisan issue. It is an investment in our economy, our communities and the natural legacy we will leave to future generations. That’s something every North Carolinian can celebrate. Read more » click here
Beach Strand
Most rip current deaths are preventable. Yet people keep drowning. Beach-safety experts are frustrated by the mounting fatalities despite awareness campaigns and improved forecasts Rip-current deaths in the United States are running ahead of last year’s pace – at least 29 since the beginning of the year – with peak beach season yet to come. Experts are warning the public to be aware of this largely hidden hazard ahead of Memorial Day weekend, traditionally one of the busiest beach weekends of the year. The risk of dangerous rip currents is expected to be particularly high this weekend along portions of the Southeast coast where a storm could produce heavy rain, gusty winds and rough seas. Experts say most rip-current fatalities can be prevented. Still, the number of annual rip-current deaths has steadily climbed since the National Weather Service began tracking them in 2010, reaching a record of 130 in 2021, then dipping to 85 last year. Rip currents were the third-leading cause of weather-related deaths from 2012 to 2021, behind only heat and flooding, according to the Weather Service, and in a typical year they kill more people than lightning, hurricanes or tornadoes. Rip currents are strong, narrow streams of water that flow away from the shoreline and can suddenly sweep swimmers out to sea. They can form on almost any beach with breaking waves, especially near low spots or breaks in sandbars, and near jetties or piers. Predicting where and when a rip current will form is difficult because of the many weather and ocean factors involved. The Weather Service cautions that “rip currents often form on calm, sunny days.” The Weather Service lists 26 rip-current deaths this year through April 27, not including three deaths believed to be caused by rip currents on April 28 in Destin, Fla., May 6 in Ocean City, Md., and May 12 at Cannon Beach, Ore. At this point last year, there were 19 total such deaths. Beach-safety experts are expressing frustration as fatalities trend higher again this year despite annual awareness campaigns, such as the United States Lifesaving Association’s National Beach Safety Week held every year during the week before Memorial Day, and recent improvements to rip current forecasts. “It is frustrating when we produce videos and graphics and educational information and release it at the beginning of each beach season, and it still misses so many people,” Scott Stripling, a senior meteorologist at the National Hurricane Center in Miami, said in an email. “The problem seems to be one of communication and/or lack of attention by the general public.” Rip-current forecasts and warning signs The Weather Service issues daily rip-current forecasts for beaches on the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf Coast, Southern California, Great Lakes, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The forecasts categorize the rip-current risk as low, moderate or high, and are informed by a rip-current model recently developed by NOAA that has made it possible to differentiate the risk between adjacent beaches. Previously the same forecast could span 100 miles or more. However, the model doesn’t enable reliable forecasts of the exact location and time of rip currents. These are influenced by a number of factors including wave characteristics, water levels, winds and the shape of a beach. Advances in artificial intelligence could help with rip-current detection – NOAA is partnering with the Southeast Coastal Ocean Observing Regional Association on a project using AI to detect rip currents in webcam imagery – but such efforts are still in their infancy. In some cases, there are visible clues to the existence of a rip current, such as a break in the waves, foamy water or objects being carried offshore, or darker water that is due to a break in a sandbar. Often, though, rip currents are difficult to see, or are best seen from a high point such as a dune line or the top of a beach access. Rip currents are particularly hard to spot in South Florida, where, the Weather Service says, they “consistently rank at or near the top of the list of deadliest weather-related hazards,” because there is not much sediment to darken or muddy the current at the shoreline. In Brevard County alone, home to nearly 72 miles of sandy beaches, there have been eight apparent rip-current drownings since November, all at beaches without lifeguards. “We have clear-water rips, so these offshore-flowing currents are very hard to detect,” Stephen Leatherman, a professor in the department of earth and environment at Florida International University, said in an email. “The best thing is to have lifeguards and for people to swim close to lifeguards. But lifeguards are very expensive, and Florida has 825 miles of good quality sandy beaches which are swimmable for most of the year.” Warnings and tips for surviving a rip current Rip currents flow at speeds up to 5 miles per hour. That may not sound fast, but it’s faster than many Olympic swimmers. If you are caught in a rip current, experts say not to swim directly back to shore against the current, which can quickly exhaust and drown you. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, which is typically no wider than about 50 to 100 feet. You might also escape by floating or treading water, allowing the current to take you out just past the breaking waves where many rip currents tend to dissipate, and then circulate you back toward the shore. However, some rip currents can extend hundreds of yards offshore. If you see someone caught in a rip current, experts urge you not to risk your own life to attempt a swimming rescue unless you have been trained to do so and have a flotation device to assist you and the person in distress. Instead, you should get help from a lifeguard or call 911 if no lifeguard is present. You should also throw the victim something that floats, such as a lifejacket, body board, cooler or a ball, and yell instructions on how to escape. Experts agree that the best way to survive a rip current is to avoid it in the first place. That means checking the rip-current forecast before you enter the water, heeding warnings for rip currents or rough surf, and only swimming close to a lifeguard. The United States Lifesaving Association estimates the chance of someone’s drowning at a beach with a lifeguard at 1 in 18 million. “Lifeguards are trained to spot rip currents and other beach hazards and intervene as and when needed,” Chris Houser, a professor at the University of Windsor School of Environment and a longtime beach-safety researcher, said in an email. “While there is some evidence that individual beach users can be trained to spot rips, most beach users are not aware of what to look for.” U.S. lifeguards make an estimated 80,000 or more rip-current rescues each year, which suggests that education and warning messages are not reaching or are not resonating with as many people as experts would like. “If the lifeguards are flying precautionary flags, and there are signs on the lifeguard stand identifying the potential for rips in that area, and the National Weather Service and media have advertised that there is at least a moderate risk for rip currents to be present at your local beach, what else can we do?” the Weather Service’s Stripling said. Read more » click here
Think Urinating on a Jellyfish Sting Is Helpful? Think Again. Jellyfish myths and misconceptions abound. Here’s how to stay safe this beach season around these gelatinous wonders. Is urinating on a jellyfish sting helpful? Can jellyfish still sting when they are beached? And what should you do if you find one in the water or the sand? With beach season upon us, here are some things to keep in mind about these boneless tentacled creatures, which populate all the oceans, from tropical waters to freezing depths.
They have been around for more than 500 million years. “Jellyfish are some of the most resilient creatures on Earth,” said Yana Yanovsky, who recently founded the Jellyfish Museum in Pompano Beach, Fla., about 12 miles north of Fort Lauderdale, with her husband, Alex Yanovsky. To researchers, jellyfish are fascinating not only for their colorful and bulbous shapes but also because they play important roles in the marine ecosystem and are a key source of food for some fish and sea turtles. Scientists estimate that there are at least 1,000 species of jellyfish and that they have survived for more than 500 million years. Jellyfish lack backbones, heart, blood or gills and are more than 95 percent water, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. They are known to drift with the currents, but they occasionally swim by pulsing their umbrella, or bell, at the top of their bodies, according to the commission. “Their movement is mesmerizing, almost meditative,” Ms. Yanovsky said. “While they lack a brain, they maintain a simple nerve net that allows them to respond to their environment.”
Jellyfish don’t ‘go after’ people. “Any contact with jellyfish is incidental,” the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said on its website, noting that humans are not on their menu. “They eat a variety of prey using their tentacles,” including plankton, fish, shrimp and even other jellyfish,” said Heather Bracken-Grissom, a professor of biological sciences at Florida International University in Miami. But when people swim in a jellyfish’s environment, humans can get in the way of their tentacles, which have stinging cells.
Don’t urinate on a sting. You may have heard that urinating on a jellyfish sting is a useful remedy to relieve the pain. “There’s something, like ammonia in that, that kills the pain,” Chandler (Matthew Perry) tells Monica (Courteney Cox) and Joey (Matthew LeBlanc) in a 1997 episode of “Friends” after Monica is stung by a jellyfish. But urinating on a jellyfish sting can actually cause more pain than it provides relief, Dr. Thomas Waters said in a 2024 article published by the Cleveland Clinic. “The logic is based upon the idea that ammonia, urea and other compounds found in your urine can break down the stinging cells and get them to detach from your skin,” according to the article. “But the truth is that your urine is made up of mostly water, so there isn’t enough ammonia and other chemicals to have the desired effect of stopping the stinging cells and their barbs,” he wrote.
What should you do if you are stung? “A saltwater wash is the best first step for all species of jellyfish and their look-alikes because it will not stimulate further ‘firing’ of stingers, or further release of their venom,” Dr. Christopher Bazzoli of the Cleveland Clinic said in an interview. Vinegar can also help. “Vinegar rapidly halts the thousands of tiny unfired stinging cells left on the surface of the skin after tentacle contact,” according to University of Florida Health. Dr. Bazzoli suggested that people apply ice to the affected area to help reduce inflammation. Someone who has been stung should also consider taking an antihistamine to reduce itching and skin reactions, or an anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen, to reduce pain and swelling.
Don’t touch them. Although they may look like small balloons on the sand, avoid stepping on jellyfish and don’t touch or pop them. Even if you are wearing shoes or sandals, washed-up jellyfish — no matter the size — can still pose a risk because of their tentacles, according to the Cleveland Clinic. “The stinging cells on small jellyfish can be just as potent as the stinging cells on large jellyfish, so it’s possible to get a painful sting even from a microscopic jellyfish,” James Douglass, a professor of marine science at Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, Fla., said in an interview. “The thing about large jellyfish, though, is that they have more and longer tentacles with more stinging cells overall, so they can get you with a lot of stinging cells at once,” he added.
Can stings be fatal?
Yes, though fatal stings are “very rare” and are “associated with allergic reactions,” Dr. Bracken-Grissom said. Dr. Douglass said that while there are many species “that sting quite painfully,” there are a few species, such as the box jellyfish, whose stings can be life-threatening. Box jellyfish live in tropical areas and are commonly found on the northern coast of Australia and the Indo-Pacific Ocean, according to the Cleveland Clinic, which noted that the Australian box jellyfish is the most venomous jellyfish in the world. Read more » click here
Staying safe at the beach: Rip currents, jellyfish, sharks, and other hazards A trip to the beach can turn deadly (or painful) due to natural hazards but being aware of risks and mitigating hazards is a good way to prevent problems. Picture this: warm weather, blue skies, and your toes in the sand – it sounds like a perfect lazy summer day at the beach. Maybe you decide to cool down in the ocean and find yourself bobbing around when suddenly you realize you are a little too far out. As panic sinks in and you start to swim towards dry land you realize your efforts are in vain and your whole body is getting tired, all the while you are drifting further into the Atlantic – you have gotten stuck in a rip current. It’s not the only potential danger in the ocean, though. There are also sharks. And, of course, there are some things on shore that ruin your day at the beach, too, including stepping on jellyfish and, of course, good old-fashionedsunburn.
Rip currents According to the U.S. Lifesaving Association (USLA), 80 percent of all ocean rescues are related to rip currents and annually more than 100 fatalities across the countryare due to rip currents. While it is obvious that swimming at a beach with lifeguards is one of the safer options, there are plenty of area beaches that lack lifeguards or maybe ocean rescue season has not started just yet. So, what is the best course of action for surviving a rip current? According to the National Weather Service, there are several things swimmers should keep in mind when dealing with these often-unseen dangers.
Relax. Rip currents don’t pull you under.
A rip current is a natural treadmill that travels an average speed of 1-2 feet per second but has been measured as fast as 8 feet per second – faster than an Olympic swimmer. Trying to swim against a rip current will only use up your energy; energy you need to survive and escape the rip current.
Do NOT try to swim directly into to shore. Swim along the shoreline until you escape the current’s pull. When free from the pull of the current, swim at an angle away from the current toward shore.
If you feel you can’t reach shore, relax, face the shore, and call or wave for help. Remember: If in doubt, don’t go out!
If at all possible, only swim at beaches with lifeguards.
If you choose to swim on beaches without a lifeguard, never swim alone. Take a friend and have that person take a cell phone so he or she can call 911 for help.
Sharks Sharks are a fear on most every swimmer’s mind, regardless of the actual dangers posed by the large predatory fish. “NOAA states that while shark attacks are rare, they are most likely to occur near shore, typically inshore of a sandbar or between sandbars where sharks can be trapped by low tide, and near steep drop-offs where sharks’ prey gather. While the risks are small, it’s important to be aware of how to avoid an attack,” according to previous reporting.
Suggestions from NOAA for reducing the risk of a shark attack include:
Don’t swim too far from shore.
Stay in groups – sharks are more likely to attack a solitary individual.
Avoid being in the water during darkness or twilight when sharks are most active.
Don’t go in the water if bleeding from a wound – sharks have a very acute sense ofsmell.
Leave the shiny jewelry at home – the reflected light resembles fish scales.
Avoid brightly-colored swimwear – sharks see contrast particularly well.
Sunburns Most everyone has experienced a sunburn at one point in their life and while not often thought as a major concern for many, overexposure to UV light can cause serious long-term problems including skin cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using at least S.P.F. 15 sunscreen at least 15 minutes prior to sun exposure. Wearing a hat, long sleeves, and other protective clothing is also recommended to keep skin protected.
Jellyfish Jellyfish and Portuguese Man of War have been spotted along the beaches of New Hanover County and surrounding area beaches already this season and the little floating creatures can pack a punch. Often times beachgoers will spot them washed up on shore and other times they can be spotted in the water, but it is best to avoid them when you can. “While all jellyfish sting, not all contain poison that hurts humans. Be careful of jellies that wash up on shore, as some can still sting if tentacles are wet. NOAA recommends that if you are stung by a jellyfish to first seek a lifeguard to give first aid. If no lifeguards are present, wash the wound with vinegar or rubbing alcohol,” NOAA suggests. And what about that … other method of treating stings? Turns out, it’s a myth. In fact, urine can actually aggravate the stinging cells of jellyfish, making things worse. These cells, which detach and stick into the skin of prey, can continue to inject venom. Urine, as well as fresh water, can cause an imbalance to the salt solution surrounding the stinging cells, causing them to continue to fire. According to Scientific American, if you don’t have vinegar or rubbing alcohol, rinsing with salt water may be your best bet. Read more » click here
Hurricane Vehicle Decals Property owners were provided with four (4) decals that were included in this month’s water bill.It is important that you place your decalsin your vehicle or in a safe place. A $10 fee will be assessed to anyone who needs to obtain either additional or replacement decals. Decals will not be issued in the 24-hour period before an anticipated order of evacuation.
The decals are your passes to get back onto the island to check your property in the event that an emergency would necessitate restricting access to the island. Decals must be displayed in the driver side lower left-hand corner of the windshield, where they are not obstructed by any other items. Officials must be able to clearly read the decal from outside the vehicle.
Property owners without a valid decal will not be allowed on the island during restricted access. No other method of identification is accepted in an emergency situation. Click here to visit the Town website to find out more information regarding decals and emergency situations.
NC General Statute 166A-19.22 Power of municipalities and counties to enact ordinances to deal with states of emergency.
Synopsis – The governing body may impose by declaration or enacted ordinance, prohibitions, and restrictions during a state of emergency. This includes the prohibition and restriction of movements of people in public places, including imposing a curfew; directing or compelling the voluntary or mandatory evacuation of all or part of the population, controlling ingress and egress of an emergency area, and providing for the closure of streets, roads, highways, bridges, public vehicular areas. All prohibitions and restrictions imposed by declaration or ordinance shall take effect immediately upon publication of the declaration unless the declaration sets a later time. The prohibitions and restrictions shall expire when they are terminated by the official or entity that imposed them, or when the state of emergency terminates.
Violation – Any person who violates any provisions of an ordinance or a declaration enacted or declared pursuant to this section shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Hot Button Issues
Subjects that are important to people and about which they have strong opinions
There’s something happening here What it is ain’t exactly clear
Flood Insurance Program For more information » click here
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On February 3, 2026, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to September 30, 2026.
Congress must now reauthorize the NFIP
by no later than 11:59 pm on September 30, 2026.
Homeowners Insurance For more information » click here
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Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30
Inlet Hazard Areas For more information » click here
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Lockwood Folly Inlet For more information » click here.
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Trump Administration to Pay $765 Million to Cancel 4 More Wind Projects It’s the third such deal the Interior Department has struck to pay firms to abandon plans for offshore turbines, spending roughly $2.5 billion to get companies to abandon their wind projects. The Interior Department said on Wednesday that it would pay the energy developer Invenergy hundreds of millions of dollars to abandon plans to build wind farms in the Atlantic and Pacific, in the third such deal struck by the Trump administration to cancel offshore wind leases. Under the agreement Invenergy will voluntarily surrender four leases in federal waters for wind farms that would have been located in the New York Bight, off the Central Coast of California and in the Gulf of Maine. All of those projects were in the early stages of development and had little chance of moving forward under the Trump administration, which has halted all federal permitting for offshore wind. The government will then reimburse Invenergy $765 million, or somewhat less than what the company had paid for the leases under the Biden administration. In exchange, Invenergy said it would put that money toward the development of at least five new natural gas-fired power plants in the Midwest, as well as in geothermal projects in the Western United States. The agreement is similarto deals that the Trump administration has struck since March with other companies, including French energy giant TotalEnergies, to abandon wind farms off California, New Jersey, New York and North Carolina in exchange for investing in fossil fuel projects. The announcement means the government has so far spent roughly $2.5 billion to get companies to terminate their offshore wind leases. Wind power generates far fewer planet-warming emissions than using fossil fuels. But President Trump has criticized the technology as ugly and inefficient and has sought to block new wind turbines. Last year, the Interior Department ordered work to stop on five wind farms already under construction off the East Coast, but federal judges struck down all of those moves. The Pentagon has also sought to halt approvals of wind farms on land. The agreements with companies to forfeit their offshore leases are a new strategy and represent a highly unusual use of taxpayer dollars. Seven Democratic-controlled states, including New York, have already sued the Trump administration over the Interior Department’s deal with TotalEnergies. Invenergy is the nation’s largest privately held developer of energy projects, with a broad array of solar, wind, battery and natural gas plants. The company had originally paid roughly $800 million for its four offshore leases during the Biden administration and had spent additional funds on development. The largest lease, in the New York Bight between New Jersey and Long Island, covered nearly 84,000 acres and was purchased in a 2022 auction. Daniel Runyan, Invenergy’s senior vice president for development, said in a statement that the company would refocus its efforts on “projects that can be delivered on a commercially reasonable timeline” in order to meet the nation’s growing demand for electricity. The company said it planned to use the funds to develop additional natural gas plants in Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. While previous deals had committed companies to investing only in fossil fuels like natural gas, Invenergy said it was also planning to invest in geothermal energy projects. Geothermal plants, which can run at all hours and emit few greenhouse gas emissions, are one of the few renewable energy sources that have found favor with the Trump administration. Trump administration officials indicated that more such agreements could be in the works. “The Department of Justice looks forward to continued cooperation from companies that are re-evaluating their energy investments,” Stanley Woodward, an associate attorney general, said in a statement. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said in a statement that offshore wind projects made more financial sense under the Biden administration, which offered lucrative tax credits for wind turbines, solar panels, electric cars and other green technologies. The Republican-controlled Congress eliminated those incentives last summer. “The offshore wind leases were sold under the assumptions that taxpayers would indefinitely subsidize costly, unreliable projects,” Mr. Burgum said. Mr. Burgum also repeated his claim that offshore wind projects pose national security risks. Last year, the Interior Department cited national security concerns in ordering a halt to construction of the five offshore wind projects on the East Coast. But the agency has not detailed those concerns in public, and, earlier this year, several federal judges said they were unconvinced by the administration’s arguments. Proponents of offshore wind projects criticized the deals, pointing out that regions like the Northeast were counting on the wind farms to meet rising electricity demand and could now face future shortages. “Replacing coastal offshore wind with geothermal or natural gas infrastructure in another region does nothing to address rising ratepayer affordability concerns, reliability challenges or potential gaps in power supply in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic,” said Hillary Bright, the executive director of Turn Forward, an offshore wind advocacy group. Read more » click here
Feds pay Duke Energy $129M for Brunswick County wind lease termination After paying out a French energy company $1 billion for its Carolina Long Bay wind lease in Brunswick County earlier this spring, the feds have settled on a similar agreement with one of the nation’s largest electric holding companies, central to North Carolina. Duke Energy is receiving more than a hundred-million dollars to terminate its wind lease in Carolina Long Bay as well. “Under the agreement, Duke Energy will reinvest nearly $129 million in additional generating capacity, which may include advancing new nuclear and natural gas generation, and grid enhancements to strengthen reliability, support continued growth in the Carolinas and keep costs as low as possible,” Kodwo Ghartey-Tagoe, executive vice president and chief executive officer of Duke Energy Carolinas, said in a release from the Department of Interior. The federal government’s $129-million reimbursement is less than Duke paid for the lease. In 2022, the company forked out $155 million in an Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf renewable energy auction held by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. The Duke wind lease was expected to generate around 1.6 GW of energy by 2032, to power roughly 375,000 homes. Both Duke and TotalEnergies wind leases also were poised to support 37,000 jobs, $3 billion in annual wages, $233 million in tax revenue, and $44 billion in capital investment during construction. The wind leases would have been located roughly 20 miles off the shore of the Southport and Bald Head Island areas. Last year Duke Energy Renewables halted its plans, citing excessive costs. While clean energy was a target goal under the Biden administration, which wanted to deploy 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030, the Trump administration has gone in the opposite direction, shifting investment to oil, natural gas, and coal. The president, who has called the turbines too expensive and an eye sore, has sheared wind farm tax credits and signed an executive order to pause federal wind permits. However, the move was taken up by the courts and dismissed as beyond the president’s authoritative scope. So to thwart its decision, the administration began buying out wind leases instead — though this move is also finding its way into the judicial system. After signing a $1-billion deal with TotalEnergies in March to cancel its two leases in North Carolina and New York, a group of attorneys general filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration at the beginning of June. The AGs from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont and New York claim their states’ economies and climate goals are negatively impacted by the lease termination. In Brunswick County beach towns, leaders from Bald Head Island, Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach have expressed dismay over potential wind farms off their shorelines. Three years ago many spoke in opposition to unpleasant visuals of turbines in Carolina Long Bay and some wildlife groups also worried over protecting avian populations, particularly the Bald Head Eagle. “President Trump’s vision of unleashing affordable, reliable American energy for our country’s communities and using common sense to put the American people first is being implemented,” Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said in the department’s settlement announcement Monday, June 29, calling Duke’s buy-out a “win-win.” However, Pasha Feinberg, offshore wind strategist at Natural Resources Defense Council, a U.S.-based advocacy group, called it a “lose-lose.” “We need more electricity, not less,” she said. “Canceling clean energy projects is self-defeating. Paying off companies so they will abandon them is just ludicrous. The Trump administration is wasting our money paying companies not to produce energy. It’s long past time for the Trump administration to end its war on new energy so that customers’ bills won’t keep rising and our nation can meet its growing electricity demands.” It’s the fourth wind farm lease the Trump administration has bought out this year totaling around $2.7 billion. The fed agreed to pay Invenergy $765 million for four leases located in the New York Bight, the Central Coast of California, and the Gulf of Maine. Another $765 million will go to a division of BlackRock for a New Jersey lease and $120 million will be funneled to Ocean Winds for a California lease. Duke Energy’s reimbursement comes as the company’s 2025 Resource Plan also indicates the utility will build half as much wind and solar over the next decade than previously projected. The change matches the a shift from North Carolina’s GOP-led legislature, which ditched plans for the state to reduce its carbon emissions by 70% between 2005 and 2030. Duke’s 2025 Resource Plan — being evaluated by North Carolina Utilities Commission, with the final order expected by Dec. 31, 2026 — also includes delaying new nuclear generation into the next decade, developing more natural gas units and battery storage, and extending the lifespan of aging coal plants. It all comes as electricity demands increase and impact customers further by rising fuel costs. Some of those costs are already being considered by the Utilities Commission: Duke wants to recover $800 million in fuel and power costs incurred during a winter cold snap, to be passed on to ratepayers. The move has been denounced by Governor Josh Stein. Burgum claimed in Monday’s settlement that the Duke deal “will lower the costs for its customers in North Carolina and surrounding states.” This comes as Duke is in the midst of requesting the North Carolina Utilities Commission also approve additional rate increases. Duke first requested an 18% rate increase over the next two years. After North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson and customers at numerous public hearings brought a fury of complaints against the move, Duke has scaled back to an 11.6% increase; it is proposing a 7.5% increase in 2027 and 4.2% increase in 2028. The Utilities Commission is scheduled to begin evidentiary hearings on the proposed rate changes on July 7, 2026. Regulators will decide to approve, reject, recommend modifications in the fall. Read more » click here
Duke Energy takes nearly $130 million to kill its wind project Duke Energy has agreed to ax its wind lease off the coast of Brunswick County, instead pledging to reinvest funds into grid enhancements and additional power generation. The U.S. Department of Interior announced Monday that the Charlotte-based company will terminate its offshore wind lease in the Carolina Long Bay wind area roughly 22 miles offshore, south of Bald Head Island. “This settlement allows Duke Energy to refocus $129 million in ways that directly benefit our customers and communities in the Carolinas,” Duke Energy Carolinas’ Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer Kodwo Ghartey-Tagoe stated in a release. “Under this agreement, Duke Energy will reinvest nearly $129 million in additional generating capacity, which may include advancing new nuclear and natural gas generation, and grid enhancements to strengthen reliability, support continued growth in the Carolinas and keep costs as low as possible.” The company’s decision leaves the more than 110,000-acre Carolina Long Bay wind energy area now tenant-free, as driven by President Donald Trump’s push to dismantle renewable energy projects and replace them with fossil fuel and nuclear power. In March, TotalEnergies accepted a $1 billion federal buyout of its wind energy leases off the New York and North Carolina coasts, including roughly half of the Carolina Long Bay wind energy area. The France-based global energy company said it would invest the refunded money in a liquefied natural gas export terminal in Texas and other fossil fuel projects. Duke Energy paid $155 million in May 2022 to lease the other half of the offshore wind area. “President Trump’s vision of unleashing affordable, reliable American energy for our country’s communities and using common sense to put the American people first is being implemented,” Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated in Monday’s announcement. “Duke Energy will now be able to convert a national security concern into projects that will lower the costs for its customers in North Carolina and surrounding states.” Projects in the Carolina Long Bay wind energy area were estimated to generate up to 3 gigawatts of electricity, enough to power about 657,000 homes, and provide more than $4 billion in net economic impacts. Though the now-dead projects were years away from providing offshore-generated electricity to land-based power grids, advocates of wind energy argue it is a stable, predictable source of energy. “We are disappointed to see another offshore wind farm opportunity taken off the table for North Carolina,” Southeastern Wind Coalition President Katharine Kollins said in a release. “At a time when electricity demand is surging and grid reliability is under increasing strain, we need to add energy options, not remove them. It is unfortunate that the federal government continues to pick winners and losers in the energy space, especially when we’ve seen strong performance from the four existing offshore wind farms currently operations in U.S. waters.” There are still active offshore wind leases along North Carolina’s northern coast, off the shores of Kitty Hawk. Those leases were purchased a few years ago by Avangrid Renewables and Dominion Energy, the latter of which is wrapping construction of a 2.6-gigawatt project nearly 30 miles east of Virginia Beach. Courts have recently overturned the Trump administration’s actions to quell offshore wind development in the United States, including an order last December to stop work in five offshore wind energy areas on the East Coast, including Dominion Energy’s Hampton Roads, Virginia-based project. But those rulings have not hampered the administration from continuing to target offshore wind projects. Since announcing its deal with TotalEnergies, the Interior Department has solidified similar agreements with a handful of other companies to terminate their leases off the coasts of California, Maine, New Jersey and New York. In early June, New York’s attorney general was joined by state attorneys general from Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Vermont in challenging TotalEnergies’ federal buyout. Chris Herndon, chapter director of the North Carolina Sierra Club Chapter, in a statement urged state Attorney General Jeff Jackson to “review the legality of this ‘deal,’ and consider joining other states in challenging the Trump administration in court.” “Duke Energy and Donald Trump are worsening the energy affordability crisis that’s plaguing North Carolina families and small businesses throughout the state,” Herndon said in a release. “It’s a disgrace that Duke Energy would walk away from an affordable, reliable offshore wind project that our state was counting on to create family-sustaining wages for workers and fixed-price clean electricity to power our state’s economy.” Pasha Feinberg, an offshore wind strategist with the international nonprofit Natural Resources Defense Council, called Duke Energy’s agreement with the federal government a “lose-lose proposition.” “We need more electricity, not less,” Feinberg stated in a release. “Canceling clean energy projects is self-defeating. Paying off companies so they will abandon them is just ludicrous. The Trump administration is wasting our money paying companies not to produce energy. It’s long past time for the Trump administration to end its war on new energy so that customers’ bills won’t keep rising and our nation can meet its growing electricity demands.” Read more » click here
Things I Think I Think
Eating out is one of the great little joys of life.
Restaurant Review: The Dinner Club visits a new restaurant once a month. Ratings reflect the reviewer’s reaction to food, ambience and service, with price taken into consideration. /////
If you like pub grub,
then you may want to consider these local restaurants:
///// May 2026 Name: Duffer’s Bar & Grill Cuisine: American Location: 5051 Main Street, Shallotte NC Contact: 910.754.7229 / https://duffersbargrill.net/ Food:Average / Very Good / Excellent / Exceptional Service:Efficient / Proficient / Professional / Expert Ambience: Drab / Plain / Distinct / Elegant Cost: $15Inexpensive <=20 / Moderate <=26 / Expensive <=35 / Exorbitant <=60 Rating: Two Stars This popular, family-owned restaurant has been serving generous portions of simple, bar food since 1997. The lunch and dinner menus are the same, offering a broad selection with something for everyone. The food is quite good, reasonably priced, and served in a casual, easy-going atmosphere.
///// May 2026 Name: Wings & Fish Company Cuisine: American / Pub Grub Location: 4764 Main Street, Shallotte NC Contact: 910.754.9858 / https://www.wingandfishco.com/ Food:Average / Very Good / Excellent / Exceptional Service:Efficient / Proficient / Professional / Expert Ambience: Drab / Plain / Distinct / Elegant Cost: $18Inexpensive <=20 / Moderate <=26 / Expensive <=35 / Exorbitant <=60 Rating: Two Stars This locally owned McMullan family eatery and sports bar has been serving bar food favorites since 2013. The lunch and dinner menus offer the same reasonably priced selections, including fresh local fish sourced through the family’s Ocean Isle Fishing Center fleet. With big-screen TVs throughout and twenty-five American beers on tap, it’s a welcoming spot where the game is always on.
///// May 2026 Name: Salty Cow Tavern Cuisine: American / Comfort Food Location: 4812 Main Street, Shallotte NC Contact: 910.762.1373 / https://www.saltycowtavern.com/ Food:Average / Very Good / Excellent / Exceptional Service:Efficient / Proficient / Professional / Expert Ambience: Drab / Plain / Distinct / Elegant Cost: $19Inexpensive <=20 / Moderate <=26 / Expensive <=35 / Exorbitant <=60 Rating: Two Stars Located along the Shallotte River, this laid-back local sports bar offers casual indoor and outdoor dining, with TVs visible from nearly every angle. The lunch and dinner menus are the same and include reasonably priced bar food, smoked meats, ribs, and a separate sushi menu. Opened in 2026 by the McMullan family, owners with several area restaurants, it delivers good food in a relaxed casual setting.
Book Review: Read several books from The New York Times best sellers fiction list monthly Selection represents this month’s pick of the litter
MAD MABEL by Sally Hepworth
The story follows Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick, an 81-year-old Melbourne curmudgeon determined to keep her past buried. Decades earlier, she was known as “Mad Mabel,” Australia’s youngest convicted murderer. But when a neighbor dies and a nosy seven-year-old girl moves in across the street, Elsie’s carefully guarded life begins to unravel. Told across two timelines, the novel shifts between the present and the past, gradually revealing the secrets that shaped her.
That’s it for this newsletter
See you next month
Lou’s Views . HBPOIN
Gather and disseminate information
Identify the issues and determine how they affect you
1. Legal Services – Mayor Pro Tem Dyer . a) Interview with Interested Firm . b) Discussion and Possible Direction
Previously reported – May 2026 The RFQ for our Town Attorney had only one response.
Previously reported – March 2026 ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Action on Legal Services
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Attorney Moore submitted her resignation effective May 1st. In order to solicit new legal counsel, the Board would need to accept the resignation and determine the process for selection of the new attorney/firm. Staff recommends the Board direct staff to issue a Request for Proposals for Legal Services unless a different method is preferred to move forward.
The Board accepted attorney Moore’s resignation A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Previously reported – June 2025 ISSUE/ ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Selection of Town Attorney
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Three firms applied to provide legal services to the Town. All the firms have been interviewed
They interviewed three (3) law firms and chose to select the Town Attorney by ballot. They selected Moore Law firm was selected to provide legal services to the Town. Sydnee Moore our interim Town Attorney will remain as the Town Attorney.
Update – The Board interviewed Brough Law Firm to review its proposal for legal services. During the discussion, it was noted that the firm had also interviewed with the Board approximately two years earlier. The firm stated that it currently represents Southport and Oak Island and expressed the view that those representations would not create a conflict of interest. Brough Law Firm emphasized that it would provide access to a team of attorneys, offering the Board a broader range of legal support and availability. It was also encouraging that all Board members participated in the discussion. By consensus, the Board directed staff to bring back a letter of engagement for consideration at the next regular meeting.
BOC’s Special Meeting 06/04/26
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here
Proposed Budget by Fund 2023 2024 2025 2026 General $5,169,737 $4,736,246 $4,802,398 $6,350,726 Water & Sewer $8,007,682 $7,665,209 $2,873,651 $2,929,275 Water & Sewer Capital Charge NA $1,482,145 $1,352,662 $3,529,111 BPART $6,274,144 $6,239,679 $5,757,489 $5,079,590 Canal Dredging $3,370,912 $3,553,603 $4,889,843 $5,252,474 FEMA Capital Projects Fund $73,644,019 NA NA NA Water Capital Reserve Fund $212,571 $244,674 $303,056 $363,056 Sewer Capital Reserve Fund $358,063 $579,461 $675,440 $805,440 Beach & Inlet Reserve Fund $1,375,110 $1,744,053 $6,507,152 $9,456,538 Capital Project NA NA $4,581,336 NA Total All Funds $98,412,238 $26,245,070 $31,743,027 $33,766,210
The General Fund budget serves to fund daily and long-term operations and infrastructure of the town. This includes administration, police department, building and inspections as well as sanitation and streets.
The Water and Sewer Fund is an Enterprise (business type) fund that finances the daily administration and operations of the water and sewer department.
The Beach, Parks, Access and Recreation Tourism Fund (BPART) is a special revenue fund enabled by local legislation for the purpose of providing for beach nourishment and tourism related expenses.
The Canal Dredging Fund is also a special revenue fund authorized by local legislation. Its purpose is to maintain navigability of the islands’ twenty-five thousand linear feet of canals
The FEMA Capital Projects Fund serves to provide pass through federal grant reimbursements for debt service on storm damage repairs performed during the winter of 2021/2022 along the central portion of the island’s beach
The Water Capital Reserve and the Sewer Capital Reserve Funds were established in accordance with the Water and Sewer System Development Fee Act of2017 as amended and will be used to fund capital improvements to the Town’s water /sewer infrastructure in the coming years.
The Beach Re-nourishment and Inlet Management Capital Reserve Fund provides funding for future year beach and inlet maintenance projects.
The Capital Project Fund/Sewer Lift Station Project Fund is required to be established by the grants that will remain open across budget years until the project is complete.
Main Points
The total budget is $33,766,210 and provides for the following initiatives to improve or maintain service delivery:
Proposed tax rate is fourteen cents: no change from prior year
Satisfies all debt service and capital obligations
Focuses on high quality infrastructure
Continues the annual streets resurfacing program
Plans for a canal dredging event
Allocates 3% COLA/2.5% merit for personnel
The proposed budget sets forth four main governmental funds (General; Water & Sewer; Beach, Parks, Access, and Recreation Tourism (BPART); and Canal Dredging). Additionally, it outlines three Capital Reserve Funds and one Capital Project Fund. Each fund is represented in the following pages with detailed revenues and expenditures proposed for the upcoming fiscal year.
The following document presents the proposed annual budget for the upcoming fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027, in accordance with the Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act. The document shows a balanced budget that totals $33,766,210. It is meant to serve the public in understanding the Town’s spending plan for next fiscal year and the process by which it was developed.
Conclusion
The proposed budget is the Town’s spending plan for the next fiscal year that specifically aligns with the targeted budget priority areas outlined earlier in this document and with the commissioners’ stated Goals and Objectives for the fiscal year. It requires collaboration and open communication between staff, elected officials, and the public. The plan positions us to face the unknown challenges that come from market variability. The budget is balanced with revenues equaling expenditures as required by the Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act and focuses on meeting obligations while advancing goals. Administration thanks all involved in its preparation and looks forward to moving toward adoption.
Update – The Board reviewed and reached agreement on the submitted budget. The next step is the Public Hearing.
Editor’s note –
Part-Time Police Officer Positions
The proposed budget would add four part-time police officer positions at no additional cost by shifting funds from overtime.
Holden Beach is an approximately 8-mile barrier island with about 2,486 housing units and 917 permanent residents. Its Police Department is staffed with 12 full-time officers, no part-time officers, and 7 beach rangers.
Ocean Isle Beach is an approximately 7- to 8-mile barrier island with about 3,200 housing units and 903 permanent residents. Its Police Department has a stronger staffing model, with 16 full-time officers, 3 part-time officers, and more than 10 seasonal beach patrol officers, giving it broader coverage and greater flexibility to serve residents and visitors.
Given these differences in staffing and coverage, which department appears better equipped to provide the safest and most welcoming environment for everyone?
For those keeping score at home,
HB has 19 staff members, while OIB takes the lead with 29.
Holden Beach maintains tax rate in proposed budget The town of Holden Beach has set a public hearing date of June 16 at 5 p.m. for its proposed $33,766,210 fiscal year 2026-2027 budget, which will keep the property tax rate at $.14 per $100 value and increase the base rate for water usage by $3.50.The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners met for budget workshops four times this spring to determine goals, objectives, revenues and expenditures. During its June 4 special meeting, Town Manager Bryan Chadwick presented the budget message. “Your goals are to address Block Q area planning and construction,” Chadwick said, “to evaluate parking options, to further explore stormwater project construction, to explore future capital improvement spending and to focus on employee retention. The budget priority areas were high-quality infrastructure, community improvements, accessibility and strategic capital investment.” The proposed FY 26-27 budget includes, among other expenditures, a new part-time police officer program, funding for pier property planning and a 3% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for town employees. The town’s general fund revenue for the next fiscal year is expected to match general fund expenditures at $6,350,726, which is $1,548,328 more than in the fiscal year 2025-2026. Of that revenue, $3,421,653 is projected to come from ad valorem (property) taxes, an $86,375 increase from the FY 25-26 budget. The largest chunk of the town’s general fund expenditures, $2,199,323, is allocated for public works. The department has allocated $1.5 million for a phased stormwater initiative. The federal government will cover 75% of that project’s cost through a grant. This $1,125,000 in revenue from the federal government accounts for the majority of the increase in the general fund revenue compared to FY 25-26. The second largest general fund expenditure, $1,840,965, is for the police department. The proposed budget adds four part-time police officer positions, which Police Chief Steven Barger said would help cover special events, holidays and staffing shortages without relying as heavily on overtime. Chadwick said the positions can be funded within the department’s existing budget by shifting funding from overtime. The proposed FY 26-27 budget allocates $65,000 for overtime pay, down from $105,951 in FY 25-26. “All of our folks who were supposed to be off were forced to work the [NC Festival by the Sea],” Barger said, “because we had a couple thousand extra people here. It’s creating burnout.” Barger said the part-time officers would provide additional staffing during busy periods like festivals and holiday weekends, helping reduce employee burnout and allowing the department to maintain coverage when officers are on leave. The proposed budget also accounts for a reduction in parking revenue compared to the current fiscal year. The board came to the consensus that the town will not charge for parking during the months of November and December, resulting in an $89,755 projected decrease in revenue. Revenue from paid parking goes to the beach, parks, access and recreation tourism (BPART) fund. BPART fund revenues, designated for beach preservation and tourism related expenses, are projected to match expenditures at $5,079,590. The projected FY 26-27 BPART revenue is $677,908 less than last fiscal year’s total of $5,757,489. Projected BPART expenditures include $308,000 for operations, maintenance and repair of the Tri-Beach Fire Department substation on Starfish Drive. It also includes a $500,000 transfer to the beach and inlet capital reserve fund, and $85,000 for Block Q projects and professional services. Finance Director Daniel McRainey said the town currently owes roughly $2.8 million in total debt service on the pier property. The board decided to allocate $250,000 in the FY 26-27 budget for pier-related professional services. The town recently issued a request for proposals to conduct an underwater study of the pier structure. With a due date of June 10, the board will likely review the proposals and approve a contract soon after. The $250,000 will cover the underwater study and any future work stemming from its findings, Assistant Town Manager Christy Ferguson said. Planning and inspections department expenditures, $529,757, are projected to increase $21,271 from last fiscal year’s total of $508,489. This is due to incentive increases for achieving training certificate levels and an increase in the gas, oil and tires line to account for market fluctuations, the budget message states. Sanitation expenses are projected to cost $242,147 in FY 26-27, a $5,305 increase from FY 25-26’s projected cost of $236,842. The base rate for monthly water usage will increase from $26.62 in FY 25-26 to $30.12 in FY 26-27. Read more » click here
BOC’s Public Hearing / Regular Meeting 06/16/26
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here
THB Newsletter (05/29/26) TOWN OF HOLDEN BEACH OFFICIAL NOTICE FY – 2026/2027 BUDGET / JUNE 16, 2026
Notice is hereby given that the Budget proposed for the Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027, has been submitted to the Board of Commissioners and is available for public inspection online at https://hbtownhall.com/.
A public hearing on the proposed Budget will be held by the Board of Commissioners at 5:00 p.m. or shortly thereafter on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 in the Holden Beach Town Hall Public Assembly, 110 Rothschild Street. Oral and written comments will be received at the hearing from any interested person.
The Town of Holden Beach does not discriminate on the basis of disability. If you need an auxiliary aid or service or other accommodation in order to attend or fully participate at this meeting, please contact the Town Hall as far in advance of the meeting as is possible so that your request may be considered.
A public hearing on the proposed budget for 2026 – 2027 was held. Highlights include: maintaining the current tax rate of 14 cents per $100; purchasing three patrol vehicles for the Police Department and one vehicle for the Water/Sewer Department; funding for 3% cost of living adjustment and 2.5% merit pool for personnel; plans for a canal dredging event; engineering designs and construction for a phased stormwater initiative; a base rate increase on the water side of $3.50 for future capital project spending; and funding to begin design of a fire department and work at the pier property.
Update – The Board is required to hold a Public Hearing prior to adopting the budget. The $33.8million dollar budget as presented reflects budget meeting dialogues, is balanced as required by the Local Government Budget & Fiscal Control Act and is scheduled to be considered by the BOC’s later on tonight’s agenda. Town Manager Chadwick briefly presented the highlights of the proposed budget and is scheduled to be considered by the BOC’s later on tonight’s agenda.. The public was given an opportunity to comment but there were no comments made.
2. Discussion and Possible Action on Ordinance 26-03, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2026 – 2027 – Town Manager Chadwick
Agenda Packet – pages27 – 56
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Approval of Ordinance 26-03, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2026- 2027
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Ordinance 26-03 is presented for the Board’s consideration. Highlights of the proposed budget include an ad valorem tax rate of fourteen cents per one hundred dollars; a part time officer program for the Police Department; and a $3.50 increase on the water base rate to plan for future needs. The budget also takes into account a reduction in parking revenue predicated on the Board’s discussion of allowing two months of free parking . An amendment to the fee schedule and a contract amendment with Otto Connect will be presented at a future meeting for the Board’s consideration.
Update – The Board is required to hold a Public Hearing prior to adopting the budget. A public hearing on the budget for fiscal year 2026 – 2027 was held prior to the BOC’s Regular Meeting. State law defines an annual budget as “a proposed plan for raising and spending money for specified programs, functions, activities or objectives during a fiscal year.” Local governments must balance their budget. Ensuring that government commitments are in line with available resources is an essential element of good governance. The proposed budget balanced with revenues equaling expenses. Commissioners must adopt the budget no later than July 1st for the next fiscal year. Adopting the annual budget is a primary responsibility of the Board. BOC’s approved the amended town’s budget ordinance for the upcoming fiscal year. The BOC’s approved the town’s $33,766,210 budget ordinance as submitted for the upcoming fiscal year.
A decision was made – Approved (4-1) Commissioner Myers opposed the motion
The average Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for North Carolina municipal and local government employees is 2.9% for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. This figure represents a slight decrease from previous years, continuing a downward trend toward pre-pandemic norms. Additionally, only 41.7% of the municipalities plan to offer both a COLA and merit increases, with a combined total average of 6.06%.
Holden Beach budgeted for a 4% COLA and a 2.5% merit increase for a total of6.5%
Following discussion regarding the need to recognize the approximately $1.2 million expected to be returned by Brunswick County for Central Reach during the fiscal year, Commissioner Myers expressed concern that the proposed budget did not account for those funds. Commissioner Myers, a retired CPA, stated that he could not support a budget that knowingly omits the anticipated return of the Central Reach Interlocal Agreement deposit, which he believed should be reflected in the Town’s FY 2026/27 budget. He considered the intentional omission of more than $1 million, together with the apparent disregard for North Carolina’s Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act, to be a serious concern that could place his CPA license at risk—a risk he was unwilling to accept. Since he is the only financial professional on the Board, it was disappointing that the Board did not give greater weight to his concerns.
Budget Treatment of Central Reach Interlocal Agreement Deposit The anticipated return of the Central Reach Interlocal Agreement deposit from Brunswick County should have been included in the Town’s FY 2026/27 budget. In 2016, the Town borrowed approximately $12 million to help fund the Central Reach beach nourishment project. Because the project involved placing sand on the beach, there was no traditional physical collateral for the loan. To support the financing, Brunswick County agreed under an Interlocal Agreement to guarantee the Town’s annual debt service. In return, the Town deposited $1,461,600 with the County, an amount equal to the largest single year’s debt service payment, to be held as security in the event of a missed payment. The money has remained a Town asset and has been reported in audited financial statements as “Deposit – Brunswick County Interlocal Agreement.” As the debt has been paid down, the County has returned excess amounts to the Town. The current remaining balance is approximately $1.18 million. The final debt payment is due in October 2026. Once that payment is made, the loan will be retired, the County’s guarantee obligation will end, and the remaining reserve will be contractually required to be returned to the Town under the Interlocal Agreement. The Interlocal Agreement Section 4.3 states: Any of the Reserve Amount remaining on the date that the Town is required to make the final payment on the Special Obligation Bonds will be returned by the County to the Town for the Town’s use in making such a final payment. Brunswick County has approved this payment in their 2026-27 budget, adding even more certainty that the money will be sent to the Town. The Holden Beach FY 2026/27 budget does not reflect receipt of these funds. That omission is difficult to justify because the funds are the Town’s own money, are already identified in audited financial statements, and are expected to become available during the fiscal year. The receipt is also more certain than grant revenues already included in the budget. Under North Carolina’s Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act (G.S. Chapter 159), the budget ordinance must include all anticipated revenues and appropriations for the fiscal year.Excluding a known, material receipt creates a transparency concern, particularly when less certain grant revenues are already included in the budget. A budget that knowingly omits a near-certain, material cash receipt, one that is already an identified asset on our audited balance sheet, is an incomplete budget. The Town can address this issue by including the anticipated return of the deposit in the FY 2026/27 budget as a revenue line, such as “Return of Restricted Deposit – Central Reach Interlocal Agreement.” A corresponding appropriation should also show how the Board intends to use the funds. The Capital Improvement Plan already identifies these funds for the Beach and Inlet Reserve Fund in FY 2027/28. Because the receipt is expected in FY 2026/27, the related revenue and appropriation should be moved into the FY 2026/27 budget. If timing changes, the budget can be amended accordingly. Including the anticipated return of the Central Reach deposit would provide the public and the Board with a complete view of expected resources and ensure the budget accurately reflects the Town’s financial position.
3. Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 26-06, Resolution Amending the Town of Holden Beach Fee Schedule– Town Clerk Finnell
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 26-06, Resolution Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule (Water Base Rate and other fees)
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Increased water revenues are needed to offset increased expenses. Based on research, comparative analysis of neighboring municipalities and feedback from the Board, an increase of $3.50 is proposed, increasing the water base charge to $26.22 per month. Other service fees as attached are proposed to be amended. The Holden Beach Fee Schedule needs to be updated to reflect the proposed changes.
Update – The Resolution updates the Holden Beach Fee Schedule to reflect the new water base rate charge. The increase in the water base rate charge was approved as submitted.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
4. Discussion and Possible Approval of Ordinance 26-04, An Ordinance Amending the Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Title VII: Traffic Code – Town Manager Chadwick
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Approval of Ordinance 26-04, An Ordinance Amending the Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Title VII: Traffic Code
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
To address concerns received from Otto Connect and observed by the police department about individuals taking advantage of the new parking spaces at the Block Q restroom for beach
To make a change in the ordinance to accommodate Board of Commissioners’ future actions on when paid parking is required, based on an annual
In preparing this update, additional items where identified that should also be updated. Explanations are included in line with each recommendation.
SHORT-TERM PARKING AREA. A parking lot, space or other area designated by the Town as a location for short-term fee free parking. A designation for these purposes shall be indicated with installation of official signage indicating the allowed term and/or time restriction.(Allows designation of parking areas fee free for restroom facilities, etc.)
Update – The proposed changes primarily address the short-term parking spaces at the Block Q restroom facility. Additional wording was also cleaned up and modified for clarity. Overall, this is primarily a housekeeping item. The Board approved the item as submitted.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
5. Discussion and Possible Scheduling of a Date to Hold Interviews for Vacancies on Town Boards – Town Clerk Finnell
Agenda Packet – pages69 – 73
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Scheduling of a Date to Hold Interviews for Town Boards
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: There are terms expiring on Town boards in July, I recommend the Board hold interviews on Tuesday, July 21st at 4:45 p.m. for people interested in filling the vacant terms. Attached are the lists of current members and their terms.
Update – Heather indicated that some Boards would have vacancies and they will need to hold interviews. The Board agreed by consensus to hold interviews to fill the vacancies before the next BOC’s Regular July meeting.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Volunteers needed Are you interested in serving on a Town board? The Town has vacancies on the Board of Adjustment, Planning & Zoning Board, the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board and the Audit Committee. Click here to view information on these boards.
Interviews for vacancies will be held on Tuesday, July 21st at 4:45 p.m. Click here to access an application if you are interested in applying to serve. Completed applications can be emailed to heather@hbtownhall.com or dropped off at Town Hall prior to July 10th.
6. Discussion and Possible Approval of Memorandum of Understanding Between the Town and Brough Law Firm – Town Clerk Finnell
Agenda Packet – pages74 – 79
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Approval of Memorandum of Understanding Between the Town and Brough Law Firm
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The Brough Law Firm has provided a Memorandum of Understanding as a result of their interview with the Board at the June 4th meeting. They are proposing that Brady Herman will serve as Deputy Town Attorney, rather than Bob Hornik, who was originally identified as the Deputy Town Attorney in their initial RFP response. If the Board would like to select the Brough Law Firm as the Town’s attorney, the suggested motion is to approve the Memorandum of Understanding.
Update – Approval of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Town and Brough Law Firm. Town Manager Chadwick requested that we retain our current Town Attorney until several loose ends have been resolved.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
This Board pushed out Town Attorney Sydnee Moore because she did not give them the answers they wanted. With only one interested law firm, the Town will move from paying $250 per hour to $1,350 per meeting. Therefore, we will be raising our annual professional services costs by roughly $10,000.Brilliant!
7. Discussion and Possible Action on Responses for an Engineering Firm to Perform an Underwater Study for the Holden Beach Pier – Town Manager Chadwick
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and possible action on responses for an engineering firm to perform an underwater study for the pier.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The Town issued an RFQ for engineering services to perform an underwater inspection of the below substructure elements of the Town pier. The RFQs were submitted on June I 0, 2026 and are included with the agenda packet. Staff will review and have a recommendation at the meeting.
Previously reported – March 2025 HDR Executive Summary » click here
Previously reported – April 2025 HDR Condition Assessment » click here
Update – After reviewing the qualifications, the Board selected MidAtlantic Engineering Firm to assess the underwater structure, including the pilings, of the pier. Commissioner Myers noted that this represents a shift from the previous plan to build a new pier to repairing the existing pier. He reminded the Board that HDR Engineering Firm had previously advised that, over the long term, repairs could be more costly. Commissioner Smith stated that the objective is to determine the condition of the pier pilings and the estimated cost of repairs so the Board can decide how to proceed.
A decision was made – Approved (4-1) Commissioner Myers opposed the motion
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.
The HDR report clearly concludes that repairing the existing pier is not cost-effective. The structure has reached the end of its useful life, so any repairs would be temporary while still requiring substantial upfront and ongoing maintenance costs. From a fiscal responsibility standpoint, investing significant funds in a structure that will need continual repairs and eventual replacement is difficult to justify and risks throwing good money after bad. HDR made a strong effort to explain to the Board why repairs are not in the Town’s best interest. This is not only a financial issue: on five separate occasions, public input has shown insufficient support for a pier. Ignoring both the financial realities and repeated public feedback raises serious concerns about priorities and decision-making. Although other funding sources continue to be discussed, no funding has been identified to repair or replace the pier under either option.
Holden Beach solicits underwater pier study The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners is taking another step in evaluating the future of the town pier, voting April 21 to move forward with an underwater study of the structure’s pilings. The pier property has been one of if not the most contentious topic of debate in town hall since the town bought it in 2022. It currently sits bare of any building, and the pier is closed to the public because of its instability. While some residents want to have a functioning pier back at all costs, others would rather focus on public safety and infrastructure projects, like building a fire station on the island. The current board is now tasked with navigating those competing priorities while trying to determine what is both financially and structurally feasible. The board during its April 10 special meeting discussed the project with staff, HDR Senior Engineer Bill Kincannon and HDR Project Manager Will Fuller. Some commissioners expressed desire to solicit realistic cost estimates of both repair and replacement options. HDR had been contracted in early 2025 to evaluate both repair and reconstruction options, including preliminary designs and cost estimates. However, after an initial structural inspection, the firm recommended against pursuing repairs, stating they were unlikely to be cost-effective compared to rebuilding, Fuller said. “Not that it is not possible,” Fuller said, “but it is not going to be cost-effective.” That recommendation led the town to halt further repair analysis at the time and focus instead on reconstruction concepts. It asked HDR to give a not-to-exceed cost estimate for the purpose of a referendum, which came out to $7.3 million. However, the engineers cautioned that the not-to-exceed estimate was partially based on speculation because of several unknowns that remain. Typically, those estimates are made much further along in the design process. Most importantly, the town has no credible study that tells what type of wood the pilings are made of, or what the condition the existing pilings are in. “You’re not really going to have a good handle on your final design until we have the underwater testing done,” Kincannon said, “and until we’ve validated the material that is out there.” Kincannon noted that even details such as how deep the pilings were driven during past repairs are unclear, which raises concerns about their structural reliability. Without that information, engineers cannot determine how much of the pier could realistically be reused or what additional work would be required, he said. Commissioner Keith Smith said that he senses an unequivocal desire for a fishing pier in the town. He wants to find out what it would cost the town for a repair and compare it to what it would realistically cost the town to replace, he said. “Until we know what the repair number is,” Smith said, “we can’t really make an educated decision that repair is better than rebuild.” Inspections Director Tim Evans echoed that concern, pointing to the possibility that some pilings could be made of green heart wood, a highly durable material commonly used in marine construction. However, he said that cannot be confirmed without testing. “Without the actual testing of the piles,” Evans said, “without us actually knowing what’s there, I think the town is risking too much.” He added that the condition of the underwater foundation is likely to be the most significant factor in determining the overall project cost. Following that discussion, the board on April 21 considered how to best obtain that information. Town Manager Bryan Chadwick presented two options: re-engaging HDR under a new contract that would include the underwater study as part of the broader scope or issuing a separate request for qualifications (RFQ) to hire an engineering firm directly for the inspection. Chadwick said using HDR would involve subcontracting the work, which could add 5% to 10% in administrative costs. Issuing an independent RFQ, he said, would allow the town to obtain the study more directly and potentially move faster. “My recommendation would be to go with the second one,” Chadwick said. Smith agreed, saying pursuing the study independently would allow the town to determine whether repairs are even feasible before committing to additional engineering work. Commissioner Tom Myers raised concerns about costs even if the pilings are found to be in good condition, noting that bringing the pier up to code could still require significant investment. “If the piles are bad, it’s no go,” Myers said. “But if piles are good, I’m still not convinced we don’t have a lot more costs involved to do all the hardware repairs and build it to code.” Ultimately, Smith made a motion to issue the RFQ for an underwater study. The motion passed by a 3-1 vote, with Myers opposed. Read more » click here
8. Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 26-07, Resolution Approving Conveyance of Personal Property to a Nonprofit Organization Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 160A-280 – Town Manager Chadwick
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 26-07, Resolution Approving Conveyance of Personal Property to a Nonprofit Organization Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 160A-280.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The Town would like to donate a 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 truck and a Coleman light tower that are no longer in use to the Tri-Beach Fire Department. The fire department will use the items to further their response capabilities for beach rescue and other emergency operations. The donation is allowed per NCGS 160A-280.
G.S. 160A-280 — Donations of Personal Property to Other Governmental Units Authorizes certain North Carolina cities to donate surplus, obsolete, or unused personal property to other governmental units, sister cities, or qualifying nonprofit organizations.
Update – A motion was made to donate a truck and other equipment to the Tri-Beach Fire Department for use in enhancing its beach rescue response capabilities and other emergency operations.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
9. Town Manager Report – Town Manager Chadwick
Agenda Packet – background information was not provided
July is Parks & Recreation Month Check social media for activities scheduled throughout the month
Ocean Boulevard Stormwater McGill has finalized exiting condition survey Hydraulic modeling information and base stormwater assessment have been completed They have also done a preliminary evaluation of outlet structures
Previously reported – May 2026 Meeting is being coordinated with McGill, the USACE, and the Town
Previously reported – February 2026 Contract is included in February agenda packet
Previously reported – June 2025 The Town was awarded $2.2Min 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 Restrooms & Parking There will be short-term free parking there Changes to parking Ordinance on agenda tonight
Previously reported – May 2026 Restrooms are finally open
Previously reported – April 2026 Certificate of Compliance has been issued
Previously reported – November 2025 Grant extension was applied for with the state and timeline has been extended
Block Q Master Plan RFQ Held kickoff meeting yesterday, June 15th Survey, stakeholder meeting, and BOC’s focus group are all scheduled
At the BOC’s September work session they will be presented with two options
Previously reported – May 2026 Contract with McGill in agenda packet, contract approved tonight
Previously reported – April 2026 Draft contract with McGill in agenda packet
Previously reported – March 2026 Staff met with McGill to narrow the scope for inclusion in contract
Previously reported – February 2026 Discussion and recommendation for a firm on agenda
Block Q Stage Area Construction in progress
Previously reported – April 2026 Work started last week on the site
Previously reported – March 2026 Request for Proposals are out for bid Bids will be returned to staff with a recommendation for approval by commissioners
Previously reported – February 2026 Final specs are completed for distribution in Request for Proposals Bids will be returned to staff with a recommendation for approval by commissioners
Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP) We are in Phase 2 which includes the following: Planning, Project Identification, and Prioritization
Previously reported – May 2026 Survey is on the Town website to help identify potential projects
The Town is currently participating in the 2025 – 2026 cycle of the North Carolina Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP). The RCCP is a community-based initiative that greatly benefits from involvement, engagement and feedback among local stakeholders. Click here to view details on the program.
Previously reported – April 2025 ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED: Discussion and Possible Action regarding an application to the N.C. Resilient Coastal Communities Program for Phases 1 and 2.
Possible Action: Direct town staff to complete and submit an application for Phases 1 and 2.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: The Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP) is a component of the North Carolina Resilient Communities Program, developed through the 2020 North Carolina Climate Risk Assessment and Resilience Plan. The North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM) administers the RCCP with funding from the NC State Legislature and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF).
DCM is accepting applications from eligible communities for no-cost technical assistance to complete Phases I and 2 of the RCCP.
Phase 1: Community Engagement and Risk & Vulnerability Assessment
Phase 2: Planning, Project Identification, and Prioritization
There is no cash or in-kind match requirement from community applicants. DCM will contract directly with third-party contractors to assist communities in completing Phases 1 and 2.
The application involves responses to 14 questions. Applications are due at 5PM on April 25th,
N.C. Resilient Coastal Communities Program »click here
The RCCP is a four-phase program designed to:
Address local barriers to coastal resilience, including limited capacity, economic constraints, and social inequities .
Assist communities in conducting risk and vulnerability assessments to create a prioritized portfolio of resilience
Advance coastal resilience projects through engineering and design to achieve shovel ready
Link communities with funding sources for project
The four phases are :
Phase 1: Community Engagement and Risk & Vulnerability Assessment
Phase 2: Planning, Project Identification, and Prioritization
Phase 3: Engineering and Design
Phase 4: Project Implementation
Update – 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. A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Canal Dredging No change, still working
Previously reported – April 2026 Staff is actively working with the Corps on the cost of Dredge spoils disposal
Previously reported – March 2026 Plans are being made to dredge canals next winter
Pier Property Site RFQ responses on agenda tonight
Previously reported – May 2026 RFQ will be coming out shortly
Previously reported – April 2026 BOC at the Special Meeting asked him to review the HDR contract and see if it covers them evaluating the condition of the pilings. Bryan presented them with two options to move forward. This is a necessary step if the piles are bad the entire project would be a NO GO. The Board voted to have the Town rather than HDR send out a Request for Qualifications for an underwater engineering study of the pier pilings. A decision was made – Approved (3-1) Commissioner Myers opposed the motion
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.
Inlet Hazard Area Staff will be attending another Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) meeting this week
Inlet Hazard Area changes is on the agenda
Previously reported – April 2026 Staff attended the recent Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) meeting and are actively involved in the discussion of possible changes to the Inlet Hazard Area
Hot Button Items / Inlet Hazard Areas For more information » click here
Dredging Area Maintenance The Corps is conducting maintenance at DA293 which is off Sailfish. Please be aware there may be work occurring in this dredge spoil area.
Previously reported – March 2026 USACE maintenance work in the inlets utilizing dredge spoil area on Sailfish
Restroom Maintenance and Cleaning Staff continues to monitor and implement changes as necessary
Previously reported – May 2026 Analyzing, trying to work it out
Previously reported – April 2026 Staff is making changes and proposing other changes to help mitigate damages and maintenance of restroom facilities
Unattended Beach Equipment Items are being left on beach strand overnight. Staff is contacting the rental property companies requesting that they educate their guests about the Ordinance.
Chapter 94 / Beach Regulations / §94.06 / Placing obstructions on the beach strand
All unattended beach equipment must be removed from the beach on a daily basis between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Here’s a crazy idea –
Why don’t we try enforcement of our existing Ordinance?
Tax Laws Monitoring the proposed changes, letter sent to our representatives
Previously reported – April 2026 Staff was directed to draft a letter opposing proposed changes to property tax laws at the state level
Town Attorney Engagement letter on agenda tonight
Previously reported – May 2026 The RFQ for our Town Attorney had only one response.
Employee Updates Alyse Wade is now a Senior Patrol Officer
Public Safety Center Some Town staff attended the Alan Holden Public Safety Center dedication ceremony at Brunswick Community College
In Case You Missed It
THB Newsletter (06/18/26) OttoView by Otto Connect Just in time for peak beach season, Otto Connect, Inc. has launched a new feature designed to make parking along the coast easier and less stressful for visitors and residents alike. “OttoView by Otto Connect,” is part of the SurfCAST parking system and allows users to check parking availability in real time before heading to the beach. The feature is now available in Holden Beach. For many drivers, finding parking during busy summer weekends can be one of the most frustrating parts of a beach trip. OttoView aims to reduce congestion and save time by showing which lots have open spaces—and which do not—before users arrive. “Instead of circling for a spot, people can now see their options ahead of time and go directly to available parking,” Jim Varner (CEO) said in a statement.
Know before you go: OttoView can be accessed through the SurfCAST website
(https://park.surfcast.ottoconnect.us/), the QRcode link, and will be available soon via mobile app update (“SurfCAST by Otto”) making it easy for visitors to plan from home or on the go.
What OttoView Shows:
A map of the area and locations of all parking lots
Real-time parking availability by location
Estimated availability based on permit turnover
Directions to nearby parking areas
Filters for amenities such as restrooms, handicap spaces, and LSV parking
OttoView is fully integrated into the SurfCAST system and is available at no additional cost.
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On February 3, 2026, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to September 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
What He Did Not Say
It’s the beginning of the busy season on Holden Beach
Memorial Day is the official kickoff for the 100 fun days of summer
Memorial Day is the unofficial start to summer and Labor Day is the unofficial end, from May 25th to September 7th, this year delivers the earliest and latest possible dates for both holidays.
Remind everyone it’s Hurricane Season – be prepared, have a plan!
Public Service Announcements
Remember that parking ordinances are strictly enforced, including pay-to-park requirements. Do not block the emergency beach accesses located on the far east end, at the pier, the 500 block or the 800 block. These accesses are for emergency response access, not temporary parking to unload passengers or beach equipment. Blocking accesses creates a life threatening time delay to emergency response.
The bike lines are for bikes, not Low Speed Vehicles (LSV) and not for parking. Bicyclists under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet.
LSVs are still required to follow the same traffic laws as every other motor vehicle, including travel lane regulations and very importantly seat belt and child restraint regulations.
Pets are required to be on a leash at all times when off of your property, and no pets are allowed on the beach strand from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Beach equipment must be removed daily and cannot be left overnight. Storage of beach equipment on the frontal dunes is also restricted. Items left unattended will be removed and discarded as trash.
Fireworks and pyrotechnics create a safety risk to the operator and bystanders as well as a fire hazard to the dune vegetation and houses. Fireworks are illegal on the island; possession of fireworks is a Class 2 misdemeanor which carries a maximum penalty of 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. If you light it, we write it.
If you know something, hear something, or see something – call 911 and let the police deal with it.
A reminder of the Town’s beach strand ordinances: …..1) Chapter 90 / Animals / §90.20 / Responsibilities of owners …….a) pets are not allowed on the beach strand except between 5p.m. and 9a.m. daily …….b) dog’s must be on a leash at all times …….c) owner’s need to clean up after their animals …..2) Chapter 94 / Beach regulations / §94.05 / Digging of holes on beach strand …….a) digging holes greater than 12 inches deep without responsible person there …….b) holes shall be filled in prior to leaving …..3) Chapter 94 / Beach regulations / §94.06 / Placing obstructions on the beach strand …….a) all unattended beach equipment must be removed daily by 6:00pm
2026 Concert Schedule The 2026 concert schedule is now available. Enjoy the sounds of summer at our FREE concert series. Concerts are held on Sundays at 6:30 p.m. throughout the summer.
Beginning May 24th and continuing through September 6th
Tide Dyed Program The Tide Dye program will be held on Tuesdays between 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at Bridgeview Park picnic pavilion. Participants must be in line by 2:00 p.m. to participate because the process takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Fee is $7 per shirt for youth sizes through Adult XL and $10 per shirt for 2XL. Payment via cash or check only.
.Beginning June 9th and continuing through August 11th
Turtle Talk Two programs both are held every Wednesday during the summer at the Holden Beach Chapel. Children’s Turtle Time is at 4:00 p.m. with crafts, stories and activities for children ages 3 – 6. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Turtle Talk is an educational program at 7:00 p.m. for everyone else.
Beginning June 24th and continuing through August 12th
10. Mayor’s Comments
From the Mayor’s Desk (06/01/26) Hurricane Season June 1st is the official start to the hurricane season in the Atlantic. Would your family be prepared in the event of a hurricane? Click here to visit the Emergency Information section of our website. You will find helpful tips to implement now, before the threat of a storm. Please make sure you have your vehicle decals in place now. Do not wait! These decals are necessary for re-entry to the island in the event of an emergency situation that restricts access to the island. Click here for more information on decals.
Building Numbers Safety issue Building Numbers Ordinance needs to be enforced
Alan stated that there are oceanfront homes without the required house numbers visible from the beach strand. Ocean front homes are required to have house numbers visible from the beach strand.
§157.087 BUILDING NUMBERS.
(A) The correct street number shall be clearly visible from the street on all buildings. Numbers shall be block letters, not script, and of a color clearly in contrast with that of the building and shall be a minimum of six inches in height.
(B) Beach front buildings will also have clearly visible house numbers from the strand side meeting the above criteria on size, contrast, etc. Placement shall be on vertical column supporting deck(s) or deck roof on the primary structure. For buildings with a setback of over 300 feet from the first dune line, a vertical post shall be erected aside the walkway with house numbers affixed. In all cases the numbers must be clearly visible from the strand. Other placements may be acceptable with approval of the Building Inspector.
Beach Strand Trash Receptacles Alan stated that trash on the beach strand was the WORST he had ever seen. His disappointment is understandable, but the outcome was predictable after trash cans were removed from the beach strand. The Town should reconsider this policy and restore trash cans to help keep the beach clean.
Previously reported – April 2026 Staff will be moving receptacles to the roadside of the beach accesses.This will be easier to maintain even in the middle of the day when beach access is difficult. Despite objections from Commissioner Myers the majority of the Board decided to allow them to try this.
The beaches are the economic engine of our tourism-based economy.
I strongly oppose this decision. I walk the beach strand four days a week and routinely pick up trash. Even though trash cans are out there, I typically pick up one to two bags per day this time of year, and more than three bags daily during peak tourist season. Based on this firsthand experience, I can say with confidence that reducing or removing trash cans will make an existing problem significantly worse. When trash cans are full, people leave their garbage next to them. When cans are removed, due to storm events, people continue to leave trash where the cans used to be. This behavior is consistent and predictable, and it is unlikely to change. Expecting the public to walk off the strand and up to street-level disposal points is unrealistic—they simply don’t or won’t do it. If anything, we should be making disposal easier, not more difficult. The practical solution is clear: more trash cans and more frequent pickups, especially during peak seasons. This service is currently funded through the BPART account, so cost should not be a barrier to maintaining or improving it. There are also logistical inconsistencies that need to be addressed. For example, some trash cans on the strand are located in front of oceanfront homes where there is no public beach access. What is the plan for locations like this? As it stands, this approach gives the impression that operational convenience is being prioritized over maintaining a clean and safe public environment. Additionally, the suggestion that mid-day pickups are too difficult does not reflect operational reality. Trash collection should occur early each morning on a daily basis to prevent overflow issues. With proper enforcement of ordinance (§94.06), including maintaining the required ten-foot corridor adjacent to the dunes, there should be adequate access for collection vehicles—even if a mid-day schedule is required. In short, reducing or removing trash cans will result in more trash on our beach.
Editor’s note – If you would like to share your perspective on this matter, I encourage you to reach out to the Town Manager and the Board of Commissioners. Your input is valuable and can help inform their decisions.
BOC’s Meeting The Board of Commissioners’ next Regular Meetingis scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month, July 21st
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 five (5) items are what’s In the Works/Loose Endsqueue:
2019 – Dog Park
2021 – Pier Properties Project
2021 – Rights-of-Way
2021 – Block Q Project/Carolina Avenue
2023 – Fire Station Project
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 / Emergency Beach Access
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Chief Todd (Tri-Beach Fire) & Chief Dixon have observed emergency access issues
Over the last couple of summers, emergency responders have noticed an increase in people using the areas around the emergency accesses for their beach equipment. More and more often we are seeing canopies, tents, towels, volleyball nets, surfboards, and other beach related equipment directly surrounding the emergency access points. This causes significant emergency response delays. During certain situations, it is not uncommon for some beach equipment to be run over by emergency vehicles as moving the equipment takes too long and no alternate routes are available. This not only increases emergency response times, but it also threatens damage to personal beach equipment and threatens damage to emergency vehicles. We are asking that the Board of Commissioners consider discussing the possibility of enacting ordinances that either prevent beach equipment within a certain distance of emergency access points, and/or ordinances which create emergency vehicle lanes on the beach strand.
Update – They were here tonight presenting an issue that needs to be addressed by the Board. They would like to prohibit blocking emergency access points by not allowing any obstructions there. In addition, they would like to have a travel lane for emergency vehicles on the beach strand. They discussed the issue and decided to benchmark off the surrounding islands policies and have the staff bring back a proposal at the next scheduled Regular Meeting.
We already have verbiage in Ordinance §94.06 that you can’t place items within ten (10) feet of the dunes. That ten (10) feet gives emergency responders a clear path along the dune line for them to go up and down the beach strand. We would just need to modify the Ordinance to prohibit blocking emergency access points.
§94.06 PLACING OBSTRUCTIONS ON THE BEACH. (A) All beach equipment must be removed from the beach by its owner or permitted user on a daily basis. All personal items and beach equipment unattended and remaining on the beach between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. will be classified as abandoned property and shall be removed and disposed of by the town. (B) All beach equipment shall be set at least ten feet from any sea turtle nest or dune vegetation
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.
Prepare now as hurricane season begins, NC officials urge With this year’s Atlantic hurricane season beginning Monday, which is forecast to have below-normal activity, state officials are urging residents to prepare now for tropical weather impacts because “North Carolinians know that it takes only one storm to affect communities statewide.” Gov. Josh Stein said Monday in a press release marking the start of hurricane season that this time of year brings uncertainty for families across the state. “I encourage all North Carolinians to make a plan now to keep themselves and their families safe in case of a storm,” he explained. “Just as you prepare your family for hurricane season, the state emergency management team is preparing by closely monitoring forecasts, updating response plans, and coordinating with federal and local partners.” TheState Emergency Response Team has been preparing for the hurricane season that ends Nov. 30 by reviewing lessons learned from past storms, updating response procedures, meeting with all levels of government, coordinating with the private sector and nonprofit organizations, and conducting exercises. “Preparation is the key to resilience during hurricane season. We encourage all North Carolinians to take time to develop plans and take proactive steps with their loved ones before a storm impacts our state,” N.C. Emergency Management Director Will Ray said Monday. Ray added that preparation includes “creating evacuation plans in case you must leave your home, securing all important documentation in a waterproof container, and checking your insurance policies to make sure you are properly covered. Home and flood insurance are especially important resources in returning to normalcy after a disaster.”
Officials recommend taking the following steps to be prepared before disaster strikes:
Put together an emergency kit with up to a week’s supply of nonperishable food, including one gallon of water per person per day, and prescription and over-the-counter medication.
Be aware of any unique needs for babies, elderly, or disabled members of the household, as well as pets.
Have multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings such as a weather alert app on your phone, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio or other device and extra batteries to listen to NOAA Weather Radio, or app or radio access to local news outlets.
If you live along the coast or are planning to visit the beach this season, Know Your Zone! This is how local governments order evacuations along the coast when storm surge is a threat. Visit KnowYourZone.NC.Gov to search by address.
Establish an emergency evacuation plan and meeting point if your group becomes separated.
Have a printed list of family member’s phone numbers, social media handles, email addresses, and medical information in case mobile devices lose power or otherwise become disabled.
Have copies of important papers such as birth and adoption certificates, driver licenses, or military IDs.
Meet with your insurance agent so you know what is covered should a storm affect your neighborhood.
Prepare a full list of personal items, along with photos and videos of every room in your home, to help with insurance settlements or tax deductions.
Be sure you know how to shut off your utilities safely. Water, electricity, and gas are key services that can also cause special problems during an emergency. Do not try to turn the gas back on yourself. Call a trained expert.
The N.C. Flood Inundation Mapping and Alert Network, or FIMAN, features access over 700 flood gauges across the state. Visit Fiman.NC.Gov to search for the flood gauges closest to your home and to sign up for alerts.
To become involved in preparedness efforts where you live, officials recommend learning about schools, workplace, and neighborhood emergency plans and join in preparedness exercises and drills. Other ways include volunteering with a Community Emergency Response Team, or CERT, to learn about disaster preparedness and receive training in basic disaster response skills or contacting N.C. Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster at ncvoad.org for more ways to help.
For more information on how to prepare for hurricane season, visit ReadyNC.Gov. Read more » click here
Brunswick County reminds community to prepare for 2026 Atlantic hurricane season June marks the start of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts below-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. Brunswick County encourages all community members to start preparing now. For the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, NOAA is forecasting a range of 8 to 14 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, three to six are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including one to three major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA has a 70% confidence in these ranges. An average season has 14 named storms with seven hurricanes, including three major hurricanes. The alphabetical list of 2026 Atlantic hurricane names can be found at hurricanes.gov/aboutnames.shtml#atl.
Prepare for Hurricane Season with Brunswick County
To be ReadyBrunswick is to be responsible for your personal and household preparedness efforts, and to stay alert for any events that could impact you and your loved ones. During the month of June, Brunswick County will be doing a weekly countdown for hurricane preparedness. Each week will focus on different actions you and your household can take to prepare for any tropical activity that may impact the area.
Week 1 (June 7-13): Make a plan. Create and practice a Family Emergency Communication Plan that includes all members of your household and pets. Discuss your household evacuation plan for every member of the household and pets. Review your insurance policies (including flood insurance) to ensure your property is covered for any flooding or natural disasters that could occur.
Week 2 (June 14-20): Build a kit. An emergency kit is vital for your survival in situations where help might not be easily accessible due to power outages and road damage. When preparing an emergency kit, it is recommended to prepare three to seven days’ worth of medicine, water, and non-perishable food for each person and pet in your home. Make sure you store important documents physically and digitally in secure locations.
Week 3 (June 21-27): Stay informed. It’s important to plan for multiple ways you will receive credible and accurate information before, during, and after a tropical event. To get updates from Brunswick County, sign up for the ReadyBrunswick Emergency Notification System and follow Brunswick County on social media. Know the terms and categories used by weather professionals and public safety officials for tropical cyclones.
Week 4 (June 28-July 4): Practice resilience. Take time to learn how to prepare your home/property before, during, and after a storm. Know who maintains roads and how residents play a part. Practice home safety skills to protect your family and property.
For more hurricane preparedness tips from Brunswick County, visit BrunswickCountyNC.gov/hurricanes. Find information on emergency planning and hurricane safety online at ReadyNC.gov or Ready.gov. View updates from the National Hurricane Center, a real-time emergency weather map, and additional online resources at nhc.noaa.gov. Read more » click here
Brunswick County – Hurricanes Overview Hurricanes are tropical cyclones that rotate counterclockwise with wind speeds in excess of 74 mph. Most hurricanes form over warm seas near the equator. They are created when the sun heats the ocean surface, causing heated water vapor to rise, condense, and form clouds. These clouds begin to spiral as the earth rotates. More air is pulled underneath and a large vortex is formed.
On average, six Atlantic hurricanes develop each year. When a hurricane moves toward coastal areas it often causes severe damage. Strong winds create storm surges, floods, rip tides, and can even spawn tornadoes. As the hurricane moves forward, its right front quadrant is typically where the most devastation occurs.
Hurricane season begins June 1 and continues through November 30. Be sure to practice hurricane preparedness and learn about hurricane safety and survival.
To assist in being prepared before, during, and after a storm, review the following links for helpful information.
Hurricane Preparedness Tips We would like to encourage you to start preparing for emergencies and stay #ReadyBrunswick by reviewing the following tips.
NOAA predicts below-normal 2026 Atlantic hurricane season Early preparation essential to staying safe all season Forecasters with NOAA’s National Weather Service are predicting a below-normal hurricane season for the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs June 1 to November 30, predicts a 35% chance of a near-normal season, a 10% chance of an above-normal season, and a 55% chance of a below-normal season. The agency is forecasting a total of 8-14 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 3-6 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 1-3 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5 with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA has a 70% confidence in these ranges. An average season has 14 named storms with seven hurricanes, including three major hurricanes.
“With the most advanced forecast modeling and hurricane tracking technologies, NOAA and the National Weather Service are prepared to deliver real-time storm forecasts and warnings,” said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. “Our experts are integrating cutting-edge tools to ensure communities in the path of storms receive the earliest, most accurate information possible.” “NOAA’s rapid integration of advanced technology, including AI-based weather models, drones, and next-generation satellite data will deliver actionable science to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of the American people,” said NOAA Administrator Neil Jacobs, Ph.D. “These new capabilities, combined with the unmatched expertise of our National Weather Service forecasters, will produce the most accurate forecasts possible to protect communities in harm’s way.”
Key factors driving NOAA’s forecast The Atlantic season is expected to be below-normal due to competing factors. El Niño is expected to develop and intensify during the hurricane season, while ocean temperatures in the Atlantic are expected to be slightly warmer than normal and trade winds are likely weaker than average. El Niño conditions tend to support less tropical storms and hurricanes, while warmer ocean temperatures and low winds support a more active year.
“Although El Niño’s impact in the Atlantic Basin can often suppress hurricane development, there is still uncertainty in how each season will unfold,” said NOAA’s National Weather Service Director Ken Graham. “That is why it’s essential to review your hurricane preparedness plan now. It only takes one storm to make for a very bad season.” NOAA’s outlook is for overall seasonal activity based on large-scale weather and climate patterns. It does not indicate where or when any storms may affect land as that is determined by short-term and variable weather patterns is not a landfall forecast. “Preparing now for hurricane season — and not waiting for a storm to threaten — is essential for staying ahead of any storm. Visit weather.gov/safety and Ready.gov for important preparedness information,” added Graham.
New and enhanced communication products this season
NOAA’s National Hurricane Center (NHC) will implement an improved version of the tropical cyclone forecast cone graphic that will now include tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings for inland areas for the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
NHC will begin testing an experimental version of the tropical cyclone track forecast cone that will capture a greater range of possibilities for the track of the storm by incorporating uncertainties for both direction of movement and timing.
NHC will provide new products and services for the Hawaiian Islands to include storm surge watches and warnings, and a peak storm surge graphic. These will be publicly available for the main Hawaiian Islands on gov.
Advancements to hurricane analysis and forecasts
NOAA, in collaboration with the Unified Forecast System community, is testing an experimental high-resolution Seasonal Forecast System that utilizes the latest modeling technology and new methods to assess the evolution of the global ocean-atmosphere system. The system is helping forecasters better simulate tropical storms and hurricanes, and more effectively predict the number of hurricanes and major hurricanes.
NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (AOML) is using machine learning to quality-control data collected from tail Doppler radar — a specialized radar system mounted on the back of NOAA’s “Hurricane Hunter” aircraft. This new method gathers more than 25% more meteorological data than the current method and leads to more high-quality data to support structure and wind analysis by forecasters.
Innovative technologies for this year
NOAA’s Office of Water Prediction high-resolution Flood Inundation Mapping (FIM) services provide emergency managers visualizations of those streets and neighborhoods likely to go underwater. FIM covers 60% of the U.S. population and will expand to nearly 100% by late September 2026.
Don’t get complacent with tropical outlook; ‘it only takes one’ The below-normal activity predicted for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season doesn’t give North Carolinians a pass on preparation this year. “For the Atlantic hurricane season, NOAA is predicting a below-normal season for 2026, with roughly a 55% chance of being below normal, a 35% chance of near normal, and a 10% chance of above normal,” National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association Administrator Dr. Neil Jacobs said during a media conference Thursday morning from NOAA’s Aircraft Operations Center at Lakeland Linder International Airport in Lakeland, Florida. “This equates to eight to 14 named storms with winds at or above 39 miles an hour. Of these, three to six hurricanes with winds at or above 74 miles an hour, and one to three major hurricanes, that’s your Category 3 to 5 with winds at or above 111 miles an hour,” he added. Jacobs is referring to the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale, which categorizes maximum sustained wind speeds for tropical storms. Categories 1 and 2 are windspeeds between 74 and 110 mph, categories 3 to 5 are major hurricanes with speeds from 111 to 157 or higher, according to NOAA. Hurricane season begins Monday, June 1, and ends Nov. 30. “Even though we’re expecting a below-average season in the Atlantic, it’s very important to understand that it only takes one,” Jacobs said, adding there have been Category 5s that made landfall in the past during below-average seasons. During the news conference Thursday morning, Jacobs said that “what’s driving this forecast is largely an El Niño event. There’s a 98% chance of El Niño conditions occurring later this season, and an 80% chance that this El Niño will be moderate to strong.” NOAA National Weather Service Director Ken Graham, who spoke after Jacobs, reiterated that “it just takes one,” and urged the public during the press conference not to “let words like ‘below average’” change the way you prepare.“Now’s the time to start thinking about your hurricane preparedness,” Graham said. “Early preparedness is absolutely everything. Period. End of story. The actions that you take today really get you ready for the hurricane season.” Especially a season like this, “there’ll never be a Hurricane Just-a. We’ll never make that a name. There’s no such thing as just a Cat 1, just a tropical storm, just a Cat 2. That is absolutely not the case,” Graham said. “It doesn’t matter what it is, you got to look at the size, the forward motion, little wiggles matter on the impacts. Even the smallest storm, if it’s slow enough and big enough, it’s going to create catastrophic flooding and storm surge.” Graham said that the public needs to pay attention to every single one of the storm “systems, and the actual impacts, not the category, not the name, but the actual impacts associated with that storm, and that includes the tornadoes, heavy rain, damaging winds, even the high surf and rip currents, as well, including storm surge.” Erik Heden, warning coordination meteorologist in the National Weather Service’s Newport office, said in an interview with Coastal Review that just because the forecast calls for a below-normal season, residents shouldn’t let their guard down. “Just because the outlook says it’s going to be a low year doesn’t mean we won’t be impacted,” he said, adding “It just takes one storm. The graphic says a 55% chance below-normal year, but if we get one storm, it really doesn’t matter what the prediction was, it could be a big deal for us.” Heden also warned in the interview against making decisions based on the category of the storm. “Categories are only wind,” he said. Wind is to be respected, but the other storm impacts are more likely to be more frequent in terms of issues in our area. “Water is what kills people. About 85% of people that die in hurricanes, it’s water related — nothing to do with the wind. but it’s, it’s things like rip currents, storm surge, and flooding. Those are the three things that would get us if we get a storm.” Two years ago, the Southeast faced a potential tropical cyclone that didn’t have a name. No. 8 resulted in almost 20 inches of rain in the Wilmington area, and last year Tropical Storm Chantal produced six to 10 inches of rain in Raleigh. Steven Pfaff, meteorologist-in-charge for the National Weather Service’s Wilmington office, in an email to media partners Thursday morning, also expressed concern that the forecast for below-normal activity can cause messaging challenges because people may misinterpret what it means for any potential local impacts. “All it takes is one storm to define a hurricane season regardless of the outlook,” his emphasis, “Given southeast NC’s and northeast SC’s hurricane history our communities must prepare the same way every year,” Pfaff continued. “Now is the time to prepare for hurricane season and remain vigilant this summer and fall.” Jacobs said during the press conference that for official forecast guidance, go to hurricanes.gov. “June 1 is almost here. Be ready, have a plan, listen to your state and local emergency managers. Preparation is essential. You can learn more at ready.gov,” Jacobs added. Heden told Coastal Review that the best way to stay informed in eastern North Carolina is to remember “if it’s the weather you love, it’s weather.gov,” where there’s up-to-date information, as well as on the office’s website, Facebook or X. Read more » click here
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Lou’s Views . HBPOIN
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The new public restrooms do not have any clear signage identifying the building or directing people to the facilities. While the parking sign indicates that short-term free parking is available for restroom users, there does not appear to be any other indication of what the building is for. Without signage, it is unclear how the public would know if the restrooms are available. Anecdotally, this seems to be the case, as most activity still appears to be centered around the old bathrooms. At a minimum, I would recommend placing a sign on each side of the building. It may also be prudent to add signs along Jordan Boulevard directing visitors toward the restrooms. Given the significant investment in these facilities, I do not think they should remain underutilized simply because the public is unaware they are there.
We already have verbiage in Ordinance §94.06 that you can’t place items within ten (10) feet of the dunes. That ten (10) feet gives emergency responders a clear path along the dune line for them to go up and down the beach strand. We would just need to modify the Ordinance to prohibit blocking emergency access points.
Brunswick County Agricultural Fair and Expo
News from Town of Holden Beach 
South Carolina advances parkway project as North Carolina lags
THE HUNTER 
