Lou’s Views
“Unofficial” Minutes & Comments
BOC’s Special Meeting 05/02/24
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here
Audio Recording » click here
1. Discussion and Possible Action on Division of Water Resources’ Funds for Corps’ Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Study – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
. a) Ordinance 24-09, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 23-11, the Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2023 – 2024 (Amendment No. 6)
Agenda Packet – pages 1 – 4
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on a budget amendment to recognize funds from the State of NC for the Corps’ CSDR study
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The staff previously reported that the General Assembly appropriated $750,000 for Holden Beach to complete the local portion of the study. Through conversations with the state, staff was under the impression funds were going to flow straight from the state to the Corps through the Division of Water Resources. We have been told the Town will oversee fund distribution instead.
The attached budget amendment (attachment 2) is to recognize funds transferred to the Town from the State of North Carolina through the Division of Water Resources . The staff previously reported that the General Assembly appropriated $750,000 for Holden Beach to complete the local portion of the Corps’ CSDR study. This appropriation was a direct result of advocacy efforts with our local representatives. Through previous conversations with the State, staff was under the impression funds were going to flow straight from the State to the Corps through the Division of Water Resources. We have been told the Town will oversee fund distribution instead. This budget amendment recognizes the funds as a lump sum, but for budgeting purposes they will be released over the remaining life of the study when requested by the Corp as the federal match is released by Congress.
Update –
Housekeeping item, they simply need to recognize those funds, approved budget amendment as submitted.
Editor’s note –
Coastal Storm Risk Management (CSRM) Study
The Town has made application to NC Department Wildlife Resources for $750k state budget appropriation for the Town’s CSRM Study contribution match. It is anticipated that the $750k appropriation and pending federal Disaster Relief Act funding that probably will negate the need for any further Town expenditures. All matching funds for the CSRM study are now in place.
2. Budget Workshop
Agenda Packet – pages 5 – 30
. a) Expense Summary
. b) Discussion and Possible Action on an Approach for Balancing the 2024-2025 Budget Prior to its Approval – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas
Agenda Packet – pages 31 – 33
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on an approach for balancing the 2024/25 budget prior to its approval.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Our budget meetings in May will entail the balancing of revenue and expenses. We will need to make some difficult decisions regarding our goals and objectives, such as “do we raise taxes to accomplish this objective, or do we choose not to accomplish it this year”.
This topic will discuss and potentially decide how we will approach these decisions since it will be vitally important that we achieve our objectives in a fiscally responsible manner.
Possible action:
Agreement on an approach for balancing the 2024/25 budget
Update –
Bottom line is that we do not have enough revenue to do everything without raising taxes.
Houston, we have a problem …
Until we pay of debt service we need to accept that we will have to
hold off on a lot of proposed projects
. c) Discussion and Possible Action on Upcoming Budget Meeting Schedule
Agenda Packet – pages 34 – 35
Update –
It was a little confusing since they were juggling cancelling budget meetings with conducting Town Attorney interviews. I believe that they cancelled all of the remaining May budget meetings but were holding the dates open for the interviews.
Mayor Pro Tem Myers was not in attendance
BOC’s Regular Meeting 05/21/24
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet click here
Audio Recording » click here
1. Conflict of Interest Check
2024 Rules of Procedure for the Holden Beach Board of Commissioners
(e) Conflict Check. Immediately after the approval of the agenda, the Presiding Officer shall poll each member to disclose any potential conflicts of interest. In the event that a potential conflict is disclosed, the members will vote on a motion to allow or excuse that member with respect to the agenda item. If excused, the member may not participate in any discussion, debate, or vote with respect to the agenda item.
The Board was polled by Heather our Town Clerk. All of them declared that there was NO conflict of interest with any agenda item at this meeting.
2. Public Comments on Agenda Items
There were comments made by three (3) members of the public at the meeting and additional comments were posted on the Town’s website
For more information » click here
3. Police Report – Chief Jeremy Dixon
Agenda Packet – pages 16 – 22
Police Report » click here
Low Speed Vehicle Safety » click here
Public Service Announcement from Chief Dixon regarding low speed vehicle safety.
Business as usual, normal amount and type of activity for this time of year.
Summer concert series at Bridgeview Park pavilion – crowd and traffic control will be a work in progress
The Ocean Boulevard paving project and bike lanes has been completed. The bike lane is not supposed to be a vehicle parking area, bike lanes are for bicycles. NC law does permit pedestrians to use the bike lanes as well, so they are permitted to share the lane with bikes. They are monitoring the situation.
Editor’s note –
This was not what he said at the meeting but what he informed me in response to my email.
The police department currently has only nine (9) officers of the ten (10) they are budgeted to have.
- Justin Hewett is our new Officer in the Police Department
- Recruiting to fill Police Officer vacancy
Having the full complement of ten (10) police officers seems to be an elusive goal.
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
Review applicable seasonal ordinances
Remind everyone its Hurricane Season – be prepared, have a plan!
Golf carts are considered a motor vehicle and subject to all laws, rules and regulations that govern motor vehicles
THB Newsletter (05/23/24)
Memorial Day Reminders from Chief Dixon
As we kick off the summer season this weekend, let’s do so in a safe and responsible way. To get everyone started on the right foot, here are a few things to keep in mind.
- 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.
- Ocean Boulevard has been recently paved and widened with bike lanes. Enjoy the smooth pavement but watch your speed. The new 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 seatbelt 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. Possession is a class 2 misdemeanor. If you light it, we write it.
- The summer concert series kicks off this weekend at Bridgeview Park. Vehicle access will be restricted beginning Sunday mornings including access to Davis Street. The multi-purpose courts will close at 3:00 p.m. each Sunday. The Town has a good concert lineup for us this summer, and we look forward to seeing you there.
We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend. Expect heavy traffic and do not get in a hurry. Watch for pedestrians, and do not drink and drive.
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
4. Inspections Department Report – Inspections Director Evans
Agenda Packet – pages 23 – 32
Inspections Report » click here
ADA Report » click here
ACTIVE NEW HOME PERMITS = 41
OTHER ACTIVE PERMITS = 316
PERMITS ISSUED OVER $30,000 = 36
* AMOUNT INCLUDED IN ACTIVE TOTAL
PERMITS ISSUED OVER $100,000 = 13
* AMOUNT INCLUDED IN ACTIVE TOTAL
PERMITS ISSUED SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENTS = 4
* AMOUNT INCLUDED IN ACTIVE TOTAL
PERMITS ISSUED WAITING PICK UP = 14
TOTAL PERMITS = 371
PERMITS IN REVIEW = 9
CAMA ISSUED = 3
ZONING ISSUED = 7
PERMITS SERVICED FOR INSPECTIONS FROM 04/10 – 05/10 = 157
TOTAL INSPECTIONS MADE = 632
Previously reported – April 2024
Timbo has an Americans with Disabilities Act/Key Bridge Mediation Agreement meeting scheduled and will report on the status of those items at the next scheduled Regular Meeting.
Update –
Timbo briefly reviewed department activity last month, the department still remains extremely busy. He claims that this was the most inspections that they have ever done in a single month. He also gave the status of the projects agreed to in the Americans with Disabilities Act/Key Bridge Mediation Agreement. They are confident that all of the ADA projects will be completed long before the agreed upon date in 2025.
5. Finance Department Report – Finance Officer McRainey
Agenda Packet – pages 33 – 35
Finance Report » click here
Three graphs were presented, with monthly comparisons of the following funds:
. 1) General Fund
. 2) Water/Sewer Fund
. 3) BPART Fund
BPART Fund – Beach Preservation / Access & Recreation / Tourism
BPART is a Special Revenue Fund authorized by act of the General Assembly which allows the Town to collect six cents of an Accommodations Tax for the purposes of funding beach preservation and tourism related expenses.
Update –
Daniel briefly reviewed the status of each of the three (3) funds.
6. Town Manager Report – Town Manager Hewett
Agenda Packet – page 36
Town Manager Report » click here
Previously reported – April 2024
Discussion and Possible Action on Placing the Town Manager’s Report on the Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Agenda – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on placing the Town Manager’s report on the BOC meeting agenda.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Town Manager typically provides the Commissioners with an update on the status of key projects and programs
This information is typically provided to the Commissioners in written format at the beginning of the BOC meeting and discussed by the Town Manager after the Public Comments towards the end of the meeting. Moving this report up onto the regular agenda similar to the Police Chief, Building Inspector, and Finance Director reports will allow for more discussion and possible action. It will also increase transparency by including the report information in the meeting packet for the public to review prior to the meeting .
Mayor Pro Tem Myers would like to have the Town Manager report be added to the agenda. They danced around the timeliness of the report if it is submitted early enough to be in included in the agenda packet. The Board decided to add Town Manager written report to the monthly agenda starting next month.
Sewer Lift Station #2 / Greensboro Street
Previously reported – March 2024
Preliminary paperwork has been submitted to NC Department of Environmental Quality
Waiting to receive offer “Notice to Fund” which will require BOC’s action to accept
Previously reported – April 2024
No change in status since last month’s report
Update –
Town has received offer “Notice to Fund” which will require BOC’s action to accept. Discussion and Possible Approval of DEQ Offer to Fund Greensboro Street Lift Station is agenda item #10.
Canal Dredging / Harbor Acres
Previously reported – January 2024
$343,800 Department Wildlife Resources grant awarded for Harbor Acres dredging. $257,850 state and $85,950 local which is from the Harbor Acres Canal Special Revenue Fund. Waiting for NC Department Water Quality certification for USACE permit approval. Current Request for Proposal (RFP) is out for a 2,700 cyds bucket to barge project in Harbor Acres. Bids are due back by February 6th. Staff is preparing for BOC consideration of grant acceptance and dredger award in Special Meetings that are scheduled in February.
Previously reported – March 2024
Maintenance dredging bid from T.D Eure was the low bidder at $189,000
Dredge boat on site and has been dredging the entrance canals
So far, so good …
Previously reported – April 2024
Project has been completed, engineer is certifying
Update –
Reimbursement has been applied for, which can take up to thirty (30) days.
Lockwood Folly (LWF) Inlet Dredging
Previously reported – April 2024
Town is working on dredging the inlet using the dredge boat Miss Katie
Grant funding was applied for
Coastal consulting engineer is coordinating with permitting agencies
Update –
The Miss Katie dredging project for Lockwood Folly Inlet has been scrubbed, this plan of action was just too little too late. Currently the dredge boat Merritt is working in the inlet and will be here for the next three (3) weeks. Hopefully it substantially improves the navigation there. They plan on attempting to modify the Town’s SDI-5 permit allowing us more flexibility with the dredging environmental window restrictions.
Pier Beach Access / 441 OBW
Previously reported – April 2024
The walkway, emergency access ramp, and blue matting placement was completed by the Public Works Department. They are still working on refining the handicap parking spaces layout.
Update –
We are in the home stretch; they still have some minor issues to address. Staff has already submitted for grant reimbursement
796 OBW
Previously reported – April 2024
The Town owned home there has been advertised with initial offers in the upset bid process due on Friday
Update –
The Town did not receive any responses to the initial advertisement of the upset bid offering. The plan is to advertise, and they will reassess their approach if needed when the second round is over.
Beach Rangers
They began the patrols on Monday, May 20th. That is the same day that the ordinance takes effect for the summer season with no pets on the strand between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Previously reported – 2017
Target Ordinances –
- Fill holes
- Remove gear
- Stay off dunes
- No glass
- Control pets – leash / waste
Purpose –
Put a friendly face out there to interact with guests
Educate guests about targeted ordinances to get compliance
Explain the purpose of the ordinance and consequences for non-compliance
Goals – keep beach protected, clean and safe
Beach Rangers are out there from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Rangers are on the beach strand during the busiest time frame from roughly 8:30am till 7:30pm. They are out there to educate, provide information and assist folks. Beach strand ordinance compliance is a real quality-of-life issue. They need to be on the beach strand to enforce ordinances and to ensure public safety. Regardless of who or how many patrols the beach strand we need high visibility for them to be effective.
Concerts on the Coast
Previously reported – April 2024
Live performances featuring local musical groups are held at the pavilion on Sunday evenings from late May to early September. The concerts are free of charge.
Update –
Our concert season begins Sunday, May 26th at 6:30 p.m. with The Main Event Band playing in Bridgeview Park. 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.
What he did not say –
Quinton Street Beach Access / 114 OBE
Previously reported – April 2024
Town staff is still working on having bathrooms there
Most responsive bid received at $70,000 and contract has been awarded
This is part of the Key Bridge Mediation Agreement
They are making every effort to complete construction before prime tourist season
Work should be completed by June 28th
Stormwater Project Partnership Agreement (PPA)
Previously reported – March 2024
Town staff met with USACE Program Manager in February to develop a draft PPA
Awaiting draft PPA for about a half dozen projects for an estimated cost of two (2) million dollars
The intent is to position the Town to receive federal stormwater funding for these projects
Federal Funding
Previously reported – March 2024
Staff is preparing funding priorities for Congressionally directed spending projects. Currently the three (3) elements are Coastal Storm Damage reduction Project, Stormwater Project, and Lockwood Folly Inlet dredging.
In Case You Missed It –
THB Newsletter (05/20/24)
Reminders
As we approach the warmer months please remember the following information.
Pets are not allowed on the beach from May 20th to September 10th, except between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. daily. Pets must be on a leash at all times on the island.
It is unlawful to dig into the sand on any part of the beach strand greater than 12 inches deep, without having a responsible person attending the area. Prior to leaving the area, any hole greater than 12 inches deep shall be filled to be level with the surrounding area, leaving the area in the same general condition in which it was found.
All unattended beach equipment must be removed from the beach by its owner or permitted user on a daily basis between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
For a full list of beach regulations visit https://hbtownhall.com/visitors.
Visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwZx9S92OJc to view Chief Dixon’s public service announcement on low speed vehicles.
Click here for information on paid parking.
THB Newsletter (05/08/24)
National Hurricane Preparedness Week
National Hurricane Preparedness Week is May 5th – May 11th.
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 put in place 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.
Annual Beach Monitoring
Survey completed , surveying stakes along the length of the beach strand
Pets on the beach strand
Pets – Chapter 90 / Animals / §90.20
Pets must be on a leash at all times on the island.
From May 20th through September 10th
It is unlawful to have any pet on the beach strand
. * During the hours of 9:00am through 5:00pm
Solid Waste Pick-up Schedule –
starting the Saturday before Memorial Day (May 25th) twice a week
Recycling –
starting after Memorial Day (June 4th) weekly pick-up
Paid Parking
Annual parking passes are now available for purchase
Paid parking begins and will be enforced starting April 1st
THB Newsletter (02/09/24)
Annual Parking Passes Now Available
Annual parking passes are now available for purchase. The Town uses SurfCast by Otto Connect Mobile Solution. This is a mobile app downloadable for Apple and Android devices. You can also visit https://surfcast.ottoconnect.us/pay to purchase a pass. Paid parking is enforced April 1st – October 31st, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Click here for more information on the paid parking program.
Hurricane Vehicle Decals
Property owners will be provided with four (4) decals were included in their April water bills. It is important that you place your decals in 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. https://hbtownhall.com/evacuation-decals
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization
Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On March 22, 2024, the president signed legislation passed by Congress that extends the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP’s) authorization to September 30, 2024.
News from Town of Holden Beach
The town sends out emails of events, news, agendas, notifications and emergency information. If you would like to be added to their mailing list, please go to their web site to complete your subscription to the Holden Beach E-Newsletter.
For more information » click here
Upcoming Events –
Concerts on the Coast Series
The Town’s summer concert series calendar has been released! Live performances featuring local musical groups are held at the pavilion on Sunday evenings from late May to early September. The concerts are free of charge.
For more information » click here
Our concert season begins Sunday, May 26th at 6:30 p.m. with The Main Event Band playing in Bridgeview Park. 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.
7. Discussion and Possible Approval of Ordinance 24-07, An Ordinance Amending Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Chapter 92, Nuisances (Lighting) – Inspections Director Evans
Agenda Packet – pages 37 – 42
Ordinance 24-07 » click here NA
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Amendments to the Town’s Light Ordinance 92.30, 92.32, & 92.33
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Text Amendments
Previously reported – April 2024
Last month Timbo requested that the Board charge the Planning & Zoning Board to review our lighting ordinance. The Board tasked P&Z to address the issues Timbo has with that ordinance. Timbo informed them that what he presented is not a finished product. The Board has the opportunity to make any changes they want before the Public Hearing. We have modified this ordinance several times already without obtaining the desired effect. The primary change that was made this time is that P&Z clarified the difference between holiday lights as opposed to decorative lighting so that ordinance is enforceable. The Board requested that Timbo work on the verbiage of a few items for additional clarity and bring the revised ordinance back to them at the next scheduled Regular Meeting.
Previously reported – October 2021
Commissioner Smith in conjunction with the Turtle Patrol wants to address light pollution and restrict oceanfront lighting. Decision was to have our attorney and our building inspector review the ordinances and make a recommendation for any potential changes to the existing ordinances.
Item was removed from the agenda
Update –
Proposed changes to the lighting ordinance was removed from the agenda because they need more time to get it right this time. This was originally submitted in October of 2021, and we still have not been able to put together a coherent ordinance that actually addresses the issue that initiated the request to amend the ordinance.
8. Discussion and Possible Scheduling of a Date to Hold a Public Hearing on Ordinance 24-10, An Ordinance Amending the Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Section 94.03 Frontal Dune Policies and Regulations and Chapter 157: Zoning Code – Inspections Director Evans
Agenda Packet – pages 43 – 49
Ordinance 24-10 » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Change the frontal dune ordinance from the regulatory section to the land use section and schedule a Public Hearing
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
To allow citizens a pathway for variances for walkways and sections wider than four feet
Update –
Basically, they plan on making some minor changes to clean up the ordinance and then they propose to move it over to Land Use section. Timbo stated that it simplifies things, and it is a good fix to allow property owners to put in walkways. Approval of the Ordinance will need to wait till after the Public Hearing. The motion made was to move forward, approve the language changes as submitted, and schedule a Public Hearing before our June Regular Meeting.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
In June of 2022, Planning & Zoning evaluated our walkway policies. In November 2022, Timbo said that it seems that the general consensus including CAMA on protecting the beach strand is that they believe that it is better not to have these structures going out to the frontal dunes. He thinks that the original concern was that people were cutting pathways through the dunes. He asked the question: Which is better to have people walk through the dunes or walkways that go all the way out. Apparently the staff and the Planning & Zoning Board feel not having walkways is better. So, what changed?
¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Whatevah!
9. Discussion and Possible Action on Demolition of the Pavilion at Jordan Boulevard – Town Manager Hewett
Agenda Packet – pages 50 – 53
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on demolition of the pavilion at Jordan Boulevard.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The staff was instructed to get bids for the demolition of the pavilion and debris removal. The most responsive bid provides demolition and removal at $25,000. The bid discusses concrete repair but based on the way the dance floor was initially constructed that should not be an issue.
The attached bid was submitted by Coastal Carolina Construction for the demolition of the pavilion and debris removal. The cost for the demolition project is quoted at $25,000. There has been subsequent discussion with the contractor regarding the second part of his bid for concrete repair. Based on the initial construction method for the dance floor, staff believes that concrete repair will not be needed or will be minimal if required. Approval/award of the bid by the Board can be funded from within existing resources by staff reprogramming “Block Q” funds to “Jordan Boulevard Maintenance/Operations”.
Previously reported – March 2024
ISSUE/ ACTION REQUESTED:
Board receive evaluation on Holden Beach Pavilion.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Right Angle Engineering has completed the requested updated structural condition evaluation on the HB Pavilion.
As requested, representatives of Right Angle Engineering visited the referenced site in January of 2024 to investigate the existing framing condition as compared to the previous year’s investigation . Since the prior year’s investigation, we were informed that there had been temporary work done on the structure. There were no engineered design plans provided to us for review of this work. The main purpose of this report is to re-evaluate if the previously designed repairs are functioning as intended since installation in 2010.
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on the Pavilion.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Right Angle Engineering Report dated March 4, 2024:
SUMMARY
Based on our investigation, no significant repairs and/or improvements were conducted that would prolong the life of the structure or address the main issues that have been raised by our investigations and prior repair plans. Due to lack of significant improvements to the structure and continued deterioration, we recommend the Pavilion be closed. When coupling the pile repair work with roof truss repairs, framing repairs, soon to be needed decking restoration, likely roofing replacement, and other aesthetic improvements, these costs likely approach or exceed the current value and/or replacement cost of the 15-year-old structure. Based on our two investigations and evaluations, the pavilion has not been constructed, repaired, or improved in accordance with any engineered plans. As the structure continues to deteriorate it becomes more plausible that a wind event and/or gravity alone will result in significant damage and/or collapse of this structure.
Possible Action:
- Instruct staff to rope off entry to pavilion stage and post signs that say, ‘Keep Off’ or ‘Danger.’
- Request that staff send out an RFP to tear down the current pavilion
Update –
Based on two (2) evaluations the engineers recommendation is to tear it down. Discussion was whether we just remove the roof or tear down the entire structure. Town Manager Hewett stated that the pavilion wasn’t built in accordance with an engineered plan. Building Inspector Evans stated that based on the engineers evaluation, the entire structure needs to be torn down. Timbo basically spelled it out for them, they really do not have an option other then to move forward with demolition of the pavilion. The Board authorized the Town staff to send out a request for proposal to tear down the structure.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
A request for proposal (RFP) is a solicitation, often made through a bidding process, by an agency or company interested in procurement of a commodity, service or valuable asset, to potential suppliers to submit business proposals.
Update –
The Town only received one responsive bid for demolition of the pavilion. The motion was made to move forward with a contract between the Town and Coastal Carolina Construction for $25,000 for the demolition of the pavilion.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Holden Beach moving forward with demolition of pavilion
The Town of Holden Beach is moving forward with its plans to demolish the pavilion at 131 Jordan Blvd. At its Tuesday, May 21, meeting, the board of commissioners approved a $25,000 contract between the town and Coastal Carolina Construction for the demolition of the pavilion. “It was poorly, poorly built. That’s why I condemned it the first day I got here,” Timothy Evans, the town’s planning and inspections director, previously said. Holden Beach’s 2024 Summer Concert Series is now being held at Bridgeview Park following the decision to tear down the pavilion.
Read more » click here
10. Discussion and Possible Approval of DEQ Offer to Fund Greensboro Street Lift Station – Town Manager Hewett
. a) Resolution 24-05, DEQ Project No. SRP-W-134-0021
Agenda Packet – pages 54 – 72
Resolution 24-05 » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on DEQ Offer to Fund Greensboro Street Lift Station #2 Hazard Mitigation Upgrade.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The funding offer has been received from DEQ in the amount of $1,940,000. The next steps would be for the BOC to authorize the town manager to accept the offer and to adopt the attached resolution.
Funding Offer / Project No. SRP-W-134-0021
Greensboro Street Lift Station #2 Hazard Mitigation Upgrade
Total Financial Assistance Offer: $1,900,000
Total Project Cost: $4,884,357
Resolution# 24-05
DEQ Project No. SRP-W-134-0021
Whereas, the Town of Holen Beach has received a Directed Projects grant from the 2023 Appropriations Act, Session Law 2023-134, administered through the Drinking Water Reserve and Wastewater Reserve to assist eligible units of government with meeting water/wastewater infrastructure needs, and
Whereas, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality has offered 2023 Appropriations Act funding in the amount of $1,940,000 to perform work detailed in the submitted application, and
Whereas, the Town of Holden Beach intends to perform said project in accordance with the agreed scope of work.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE TOWN OF HOLDEN BEACH:
That the Town of Holden Beach does hereby accept the 2023 Appropriations Act Directed Projects offer at $1,940,000
That the Town of Holden Beach does hereby give assurance to the North Carolina Department of Environment Quality that any Conditions or Assurances contained in the Award Offer will be adhered to.
That David W. Hewett, Town Manager, and successors so titled, is hereby authorized and directed to furnish such information as the appropriate State agency may request in connection with this project; to make the assurances as contained above; and to execute such other documents as may be required by the Division of Water Infrastructure .
Previously reported – March 2024
EPA Grant Component – $2,669.867
State Funding – $1,940,000
Cumulative Funding – $4,609.867
Remaining Financing – forecast a possible need for short-term borrowing
Preliminary paperwork has been submitted to NC Department of Environmental Quality
Waiting to receive offer “Notice to Fund” which will require BOC’s action to accept
Update –
The resolution is necessary to accept funding in the amount of $1,940,000 from the NC Department of Environmental Quality for the Greensboro Street Lift Station #2. The motion made was to adopt the resolution.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
11. Discussion and Possible Action to Direct Staff to Develop a Request for Proposals to Accomplish Tasks in the Adopted Pier Property Development Plan – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Paarfus
Agenda Packet – pages 73 – 80
Pier Property Development Plan » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Direct Town Staff to develop an RFP to accomplish tasks 1 and 2 of the recently adopted Pier Property Development Plan. The RFP should also accomplish task 4 as it applies to the pier only. Once developed, it should be presented to the Board for approval prior to issuance.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The RFP should provide preliminary design information and budgetary (class 3) cost estimates for the four (4) phases to repair the pier and the two (2) phases to replace the pier as outlined in the plan. Life cycle Operating and Maintenance costs for both pier repair and pier replacement are to be developed as well.
Task 1 –
Initiate preliminary design work for repair of the current pier from the deck (in phases similar to that outlined above), to include cost estimates for each phase and a draft Maintenance and Repair Plan with yearly cost estimates.
Task 2 –
Initiate preliminary design and cost estimates for a new wooden pier (in phases as outlined above), to include cost estimates for each phase and a draft Maintenance and Repair Plan with yearly cost estimates.
Task 3 –
Initiate preliminary land site wide conceptual design(s) that comply with PARTF requirements to include initial cost estimates for construction, operation and maintenance.
Task 4 –
Conduct a financial/business case analysis should be performed to determine potential revenue that can offset the development costs. This should include some type of market analysis of any potential commercial/retail facilities that may be on the site.
Previously reported – April 2024
Holden Beach Pier Property.
. b) Discussion and Possible Action on Pier Property Development – Mayor Pro . Tem Myers and Commissioner Paarfus
.
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and possible action on Pier Property Development
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The purpose is to develop a project approach for the pier property based on the attached information
It is imperative that it be understood that the pier is an amenity and will have to compete against critical projects infrastructure and other non-critical for funding. Examples of critical infrastructure projects include water system capacity increases, stormwater projects, tire station replacement (for 24/7 manning), road paving, beach and inlet maintenance, etc.
SUMMARY
The purpose of this document is to initiate discussion concerning development of the pier property by providing a baseline approach to that development. It is not intended to be the final project plan, but to serve as a starting point. Development of the pier property should encompass the entire property, not just the pier and pier building, with priority given to addressing the pier. Phases have been suggested to make the development financially manageable. A notional timeline for preliminary work has been outlined with possible funding scenarios to accomplish it. Last information concerning public private partnerships is provided along with stakeholder information.
Commissioner Parfus discussed a detailed plan for a project approach to develop the pier property. It appears that he really did his homework, was very prepared, knew his stuff, and offered a viable game plan to move the project forward. Motion was made to approve the development plan that he submitted for the pier property.
Update –
The Board expressed their desire to move this project forward. The motion was made to have Town staff develop a Request for Proposals to accomplish tasks in the recently adopted Pier Property Development Plan. They requested that the RFP be presented to the Board for approval prior to it being distributed.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
A request for proposal (RFP) is a solicitation, often made through a bidding process, by an agency or company interested in procurement of a commodity, service or valuable asset, to potential suppliers to submit business proposals
12. Discussion and Possible Action on Instructing the Town Attorney to Investigate the Town of Holden Beach’s Legal Requirements from the Pier Grants – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas
Agenda Packet – pages 81 – 109
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discuss and possible action on instructing the Town Attorney to investigate the Town of Holden Beach’s legal requirements from the Pier grants – the $500k PARTF grant (for tract l) and the$180k Public Beach & Coastal Waterfront Access Program Grant (for Tract 2)
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Town of Holden Beach received a PARTF grant for $500K toward the acquisition of Tract l and also received a$180k Public Beach & Coastal Waterfront Access Program Grant (for Tract 2) when they purchased the Pier property in 2022. It is unclear what the legal requirements are for the grants and before we can finalize a Pier Plan, we need to understand exactly what we are legally required to provide based on the grants.
Update –
Some of the Board members still have questions regarding what the Town is legally required to do by having accepted these grants. Basically, they want to know what can be included and what is required to be included before they approve any plan of action. They simply want to have all our ducks in a row and feel that the prudent thing to do is have our Town attorney review them. The motion was made to have the Town attorney investigate the Town’s legal requirements for the pier grants.
A decision was made – Approved (3-2)
Commissioners Smith and Dyer opposed the motion
13. Discussion and Possible Commitment from the Town’s Leadership on Working Together for the Betterment of the Town – Mayor Holden and Commissioner Dyer
Agenda Packet – page 110
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Commitment from the Town’s Leadership on Working Together for the Betterment of the Town
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
There have been concerns from the public that call for the elected officials to work more in harmony.
Update –
Based on who submitted this agenda item, it seems to me that their intent was to put the blame for not working together on the three (3) new Board members. Mayor Holden got on his soap box to give an angry rant. Alan stated that he is deeply concerned with the way things are headed. He then said that we all need to try and work together for what is best for the Holden Beach community. Just so you know, Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas are on the HBPOA Board. Not to put too fine a point on it, Alan is on the Board of Trustees of the Chapel, the Chapel just revoked the privileges of the HBPOA to use their facility. Does that sound like they are trying to work together to you? He then insinuated that their actions have negatively impacted home sales and rentals. This is just after the Inspections Director reported that this was the busiest month ever for his Planning & Inspections Department. Also, the draft budget that was submitted to the Board has occupancy tax being higher than last year. In my opinion his remarks are just BALDERDASH. Most of the property owners don’t even follow what’s going on here and we are supposed to believe that people that don’t live here do. Mayor Pro Tem Myers agreed at times it’s been embarrassing and that we all share responsibility. Tom said that we need to do something. He suggested that they participate in the League of Municipalities “Commit to Civility” Program which is focused exactly on this issue. In other words, he flipped the script by offering to take a civility course. Three (3) Board members (Tom, Tracy, and Rick) were willing and able and immediately committed to taking the course. The other Board members were unable or unwilling to commit. Alan’s ploy backfired. Despite the agenda item being about working together the discussion unraveled twice. Alan seemed unwilling to accept that it was inappropriate to discuss church business in the Mayor’s Desk newsletter that is sent from the Town. It is a separation of Church and State issue. Then Alan, Page and Rick went down the rabbit hole again regarding conflict of interest. Our Town attorney needed to once again explain to them what constitutes a conflict of interest. After some additional discussion they were able to reach agreement by consensus that they will look into participating in the Commit to Civility program.
League of Municipalities “Commit to Civility” Program
Connect. Respect. Solutions.
“Civility is claiming and caring for one’s identity, needs, and beliefs without degrading someone else’s in the process.”
Program Purpose
NCLM’s Commit to Civility program promotes civility in local government and recognizes those governing boards that dedicate themselves to this approach. It engages and challenges municipal officials to embrace civility throughout the course of their work within their communities. This program equips leaders with the information and skills needed to maintain composure and move through emotionally charged situations with a respectful and solutions-oriented approach.
The objectives are to understand that:
- Civility is about disagreeing without disrespect, seeking common ground as a starting point for dialogue about differences, listening past one’s preconceptions, and teaching others to do the same. Civility is the hard work of staying present even with those with deep-rooted and fierce disagreements.
- Civility is inherently political, not only because it’s a prerequisite for civic action, but because it’s about negotiating interpersonal power such that everyone’s voice is heard.
For more information » click here
That’s rich, it took a lot of chutzpah for them to submit this agenda item. I find it ironic that the two persons that submitted this agenda item were the people who were hostile at the meeting. They are the ones that are not being civil, respectful, out of control, and have not maintained proper decorum during the meetings. They are the ones who complained about everything, no matter how picayune. Board members need to treat one another with civility, dignity, and respect despite their differences. In my opinion, Tom, Tracy, and Rick have been committed to do what is best for all the island property owners and the Town of Holden Beach from the day they registered to run for office. It is the other Board members that have not. In my opinion this agenda item is an insincere act meant to deceive the public, it was not submitted in good faith. They are being total hypocrites.
14. Mayor’s Comments
From the Mayor’s Desk (05/24/24)
Have a safe and relaxing Memorial Weekend!
Here are some things to remember!
- Memorial Day is the day to remember those that gave of themselves for this country and all of us. Bless them and all those who are continuing to serve. Celebrate what we enjoy in this country and be thankful for all that have been a part of making America the best country in the world.
- Hurricane season is upon us again. Predictions are that it will be a more severe season than normal. Make your plans and be prepared.
- Brunswick County’s Ready Brunswick Preparedness Expo is Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. This is a family-friendly event to be held at the Brunswick County Government Center, 30 Government Center Drive NC, Bolivia, NC 28422 (910-253-2589).
- The newly created bike lanes along Ocean Boulevard are open.
- The concert season starts this Sunday, May 26th at 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Bridgeview Park besides the Holden Beach water tank. The Main Event Band will provide the entertainment.
- Your pets are part of the family, and we all appreciate them. Remember that pets are not allowed to be on the beach strand from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. during the days from May 20th – September 10th. Pets must be on a lease and under control of the owner.
- The Lockwood Folly Inlet is being dredged for our boating safety. Be careful and be mindful of the dredge “Merritt”.
- The new public access facility adjacent to the west side of the Holden Beach fishing pier building is open. The new emergency vehicle access is there too!
- The Holden Beach causeway has been resurfaced and looks great. The bumps are gone! Eventually the resurfacing will follow NC 130 all the way to Shallotte in the near future.
- The beach patrol is back in action for the season.
- Turtles are nesting! Thanks to the HB Turtle Patrol for all they do.
- Be sure to use your seatbelts when riding in your golf cart (low speed vehicle). Golf carts must be licensed to be on the streets of Holden Beach. All rules and regulations apply to golf carts that apply to other vehicles.
- The commissioners and the staff are working hard to complete the proposed budget for the 2024/2025 year. The deadline is June 30th.
- Be careful with all the highway and boat traffic this weekend! If the traffic gets backed up trying to get to the island, remember the option to turn right at the ocean end of the HB Bridge and circling under the bridge to get to the east end (this is a time saving alternative).
- Thanks to all owners, volunteers, town staff, etc. for making Holden Beach the wonderful place that we all love!
General Comments –
BOC’s Meeting
The Board of Commissioners’ next Regular Meeting is scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month, June 18th
Budget Calendar –
Local governments must balance their budget
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
Budget Meeting Schedule
- May 2 / Budget Meeting – Expense Summary
- May 7 / Budget Meeting – Budget Revisions (cancelled)
- May 14 / Budget Meeting – Draft Budget (cancelled)
- May 22 / Budget Meeting – Input on Draft Budget (cancelled)
- May 29 / Budget Meeting – Draft Budget (cancelled)
- May 31 / Budget Message Released (No Later Than June 1st)
- June 3 / Budget Meeting – Revisions
- June 7 / Budget Meeting – Revisions
- June 12 / Budget Meeting – Revisions
- June 18 / Budget Public Hearing
- June 20 / Budget Meeting – Final Changes
- June 25 / Budget Meeting – Final Changes
- June 30 / Must adopt Budget (No Later Than June 30th)
Brunswick County staff suggest no property tax rate increase in proposed budget
Brunswick County commissioners will once again review the county’s budget for the 24-25 fiscal year on Monday, May 20. The recommended budget will be in place starting July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. According to the county, it includes the recommended budget ordinance, capital improvement plan, and schedule of fees for FY25. In a bright spot for county residents, county staff are proposing the property tax rate to stay the same for FY25 at 34.20 cents. Chairman Randy Thompson said the reason behind the rate staying the same comes down to controlled measurable growth, allowing for the opportunity to fund needed services within the county. On May 6, County Manager Steven Stone and his team presented a proposed budget detailing the General Fund Draft Recommended Budget and Capital Improvement Plan, Brunswick County Schools Capital Plan, Enterprise Fund Draft Recommended Budget and Capital Improvement Plan, and Rate and Fee Recommendations. A spokesperson for the county highlighted the notable budget items, which pertain to water and wastewater rates for the county. On the proposed budget, there are currently no changes to residential water and wastewater rates. However, county staff has included changes based on the county’s water and wastewater system development fees, which accounts for more developments being built in the county down the road. The county said these are one-time fees for new developments joining either or both of the county’s utilities systems and it will not impact existing Brunswick County Public Utilities water and/or sewer customers. Commissioners are expected to approve the final budget on June 17.
Read more » click here
You have to ask: How were they able to have completed their proposed budget on May 6th and we still haven’t done so?
It’s not like they don’t have anything to work on …
The following twenty-one (21) items are what’s In the Works/Loose Ends queue:
796 OBW Project- Accommodation/Occupancy Tax Compliance
- ADA Mediation Agreement
- Attorney
- Beach Mat Plan
- Block Q Project
- Carolina Avenue
- Dog Park
- Fire Station Project
- Harbor Acres
- ICW/No Wake Zone Enforcement
- Inlet Hazard Areas
- Parking – 800 Block
- Pavilion Replacement
- Pier Properties Project
- Rights-of-Way
- Sewer System/Lift station #2
- Stormwater Management Project
- USACE/Coastal Storm Risk Management Study
- Water System Assessment/Water Tower
- Waste Ordinance Enforcement Policy
- Wetland Delineation/Bulkheading
The definition of loose ends is a fragment of unfinished business or a detail that is not yet settled or explained, which is the current status of these items. All of these items were started and then put on hold, and they were never put back in the queue. This Board needs to continue working on them and move these items to closure.
Hurricane Season
For more information » click here.
Be prepared – have a plan!
Public Service Announcement
Greetings! The National Weather Service has declared May 5-11 as Hurricane Preparedness Week. As the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season draws closer to us, a major question to ask is whether your home and belongings are protected in case a storm hits. The season will begin on June 1, and that date marks the start of a time when a hurricane or a tropical storm is most likely to form in the Atlantic Ocean due to the rise in water temperature.
As a result, North Carolinians may feel the destructive power of high winds, torrential rains and massive flooding. And it’s not just coastal residents. The impact of a major storm can potentially impact everyone in North Carolina, regardless of where you live. Forecasters are predicting that the 2024 hurricane season will be especially busy, dangerous and potentially expensive to home and property owners.
It’s important to not be a victim!
The best time to prepare is now – protect yourself and your valuables before the seasons begins. It is also imperative to understand your home’s vulnerability so you can know how to shore up. Here are some tips:
- Do you have flood insurance? Even if you don’t live in a flood zone, your home may experience flood damage due to rising waters. It takes 30 days for a flood insurance policy to take effect, so contact your agent to enact your policy now.
- Update your insurance. Check your insurance policy ahead of the storm to see what is covered. Know where your insurance documents are located and take them with you in case you need to evacuate.
- Do you have an evacuation plan? Plan your route now and have an alternative. Leave when ordered to do so and communicate your plan with someone who is not in the storm’s path.
- Don’t forget your pets! Most local shelters do not permit them, so make sure there is a safe place for them as well.
- Is your home protected? Keep trees around your home trimmed to prevent damage from broken branches. Have the proper materials in advance to board up your windows to protect them from flying debris. Bring loose outdoor items such as patio furniture inside. Secure all doors on your property. Remember the garage door is usually the most vulnerable. Move your car inside a garage or to another secure location. Know where to take shelter in the interior portion of a well-built structure in case high winds or a tornado suddenly strike.
- Do you know how to access storm information? Tune to your trusted local news source – whether it is television, radio, phone apps or social media – and listen closely to local officials for guidance.
You can also access information from https://www.ready.gov/. - Put together an emergency kit. Check emergency equipment such as flashlights, generators and storm shutters. Have food, water and medicines ready to take with you in case of an evacuation.
- Make a home inventory. Take pictures of your home, valuables and other items to have on hand to show your agent in case of damage.
Remember “preparation time is never wasted time.”
I encourage you to take time now to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, so you won’t be caught off guard and lose the things most precious to you.
For more information, visit https://www.ncdoi.gov/consumers/disaster
Hurricane Preparedness Week: What you need to know
With hurricane season rapidly approaching, Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey urges North Carolinians to use National Hurricane Preparedness Week, which runs May 5-11, as a time to prepare for the potential of extreme weather.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. Forecasters are predicting that the 2024 hurricane season will be especially busy, dangerous, and potentially expensive to home and property owners.
“The best time to prepare for hurricanes is before hurricane season begins,” said Commissioner Causey. “Having an emergency kit in place and making sure you have the appropriate insurance coverage will go a long way in protecting your family and home from dangerous storms and flooding.”
Preparation before a storm is key. Commissioner Causey encourages all individuals and families to have a storm-readiness plan in place. Families should discuss the plan, so everyone knows how to respond once a storm hits. Additionally, homeowners and renters should review their insurance plans to ensure proper coverage if disaster strikes. Residents should also take a home inventory to document what they own. This will help insurance companies examine potential losses and assure proper coverage.
North Carolinians should also be aware of the following:
- Most homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies do not cover damage from floods, although most mobile homeowners’ and comprehensive auto policies do.
- A landlord’s insurance policy likely won’t cover damage to a renter’s personal property.
- The National Flood Insurance Program takes 30 days to take effect. Waiting to take out a flood policy once a storm or hurricane is in motion will be too late.
- Just because there’s no longer a mortgage on a home does not nullify the need for homeowners’ insurance.
Since it takes 30 days for a flood policy to take effect, now is the time to contact your agent to see if you have the proper coverage. Commissioner Causey has approved a statewide private flood insurance program that participating companies can offer to residents living anywhere in the state. The program is separate from the National Flood Insurance Program.
Commissioner Causey has set up free flood insurance conferences across the state to educate the public on the need for flood insurance. Insurance agents, real estate agents, adjusters, engineers, and architects can receive continuing education credits by attending one of these conferences.
Sadly, fraud is very common after a big storm. Commissioner Causey encourages storm victims to avoid roofing and contractor scams by only working with licensed and insured contractors. Our NCDOI Criminal Investigations Division has a staff of Special Agents across the state who investigate reports of insurance fraud daily. For more information about how to report fraud and how to protect yourself and loved ones, visit ncdoi.gov/reportfraud.
For a list of tips and resources to help you prepare before, during, and after a storm, visit ncdoi.gov/disaster.
Read more » click here
The 2024 hurricane season could be busy.
Here’s what to expect in North Carolina.
“This is the highest prediction for hurricanes that (Colorado State University) has ever issued with their April outlook.”
The start of the 2024 hurricane season is sneaking up just as the weather warms, and forecasters are already out with their early-season predictions. But with climate change warming the oceans and air temperatures seemingly hitting new highs every month, with the European Union’s climate service declaring March to be the 10th consecutive month of record worldwide temperatures, is it only a question of how bad things will be this year? Or will Southeastern North Carolina be able to (mostly) dodge the proverbial storm bullet for another year?
What are forecasters saying?
According to forecasters at Colorado State University (CSU), who have been releasing April predictions since 1995, the 2024 season will be “an extremely active Atlantic hurricane season.” The researchers are predicting 23 named storms, with 11 becoming hurricanes and five of those becoming Category 3 or stronger systems. That’s about 170% of the usual storm activity of an average year. “This is the highest prediction for hurricanes that CSU has ever issued with their April outlook,” stated the researchers in a release.
The probability of one of those storms making landfall on the mainland U.S.:
- 62% for the entire U.S. coastline (average from 1880–2020 is 43%).
- 34% for the U.S. East Coast, including the Florida peninsula (average from 1880–2020 is21%).
- 56% probability a hurricane will come within 50 miles of the N.C. coast, 85% for a named tropical storm.
The researchers added that the predicted storm activity is exhibiting characteristics similar to the 2010 and 2020 seasons.
How bad were 2010 and 2020?
For the Wilmington area, the 2010 hurricane season didn’t bring too many impacts − although Tropical Storm Nicole did drop more than 22 inches of rain on the Port City, flooding more than 100 roads in Brunswick County and leaving chunks of Pleasure Island underwater. But for the Atlantic basin as a whole, it was very busy, with some of the more brutal storms, particularly Alex and Karl, hammering the Caribbean and Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. A pair of Category 4 monsters, Danielle and Earl, also luckily stayed out mostly at sea. A decade later, 2020 proved to be the most active hurricane season ever with 30 named storms, 14 of which developed into hurricanes. That list included a record 12 U.S. landfalling storms, including Hurricane Isaias, which raked the Brunswick County beaches and knocked out power to nearly 400,000 customers in the Carolinas.
What about El Niño & La Niña in 2024?
While El Niño conditions have dominated for the past year or so, that should transition into La Niña by the time hurricane season rolls around. Dr. Michael Mann, a meteorologist and scientist at the University of Pennsylvania, said that will mean decreased wind shear in the tropical Atlantic and a more favorable environment for tropical cyclones.
Did we learn anything from the 2023 season?
Unfortunately, Mann said one of the lessons that last season reinforced was that in a world buffeted by climate change forecasters continue to have a tendency to under predict the actual number of named storms. He added that while ocean surface temperatures are somewhat retreating from the record heat we’ve seen recently, his team is still expecting to see abnormally warm water temperatures in the main development region of the Atlantic for storms. In other words, it could be a long, stormy season − so buckle up and be prepared. “It takes only one storm near you to make this an active season for you,” said CSU meteorologist Dr. Michael Bell. Hurricane season starts June 1 and runs through November.
Read more » click here
NOAA predicts above-normal 2024 Atlantic hurricane season
La Nina and warmer-than-average ocean temperatures are major drivers of tropical activity
NOAA National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30, predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal season, a 10% chance of a near-normal season and a 5% chance of a below-normal season. NOAA is forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 8 to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 4 to 7 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). Forecasters have a 70% confidence in these ranges. The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have above-normal activity due to a confluence of factors, including near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation. “With another active hurricane season approaching, NOAA’s commitment to keeping every American informed with life-saving information is unwavering,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “AI-enabled language translations and a new depiction of inland wind threats in the forecast cone are just two examples of the proactive steps our agency is taking to meet our mission of saving lives and protecting property.” “Severe weather and emergencies can happen at any moment, which is why individuals and communities need to be prepared today,” said FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks. “Already, we are seeing storms move across the country that can bring additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding and hail. Taking a proactive approach to our increasingly challenging climate landscape today can make a difference in how people can recover tomorrow.” As one of the strongest El Ninos ever observed nears its end, NOAA scientists predict a quick transition to La Nina conditions, which are conducive to Atlantic hurricane activity because La Nina tends to lessen wind shear in the tropics. At the same time, abundant oceanic heat content in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea creates more energy to fuel storm development. This hurricane season also features the potential for an above-normal west African monsoon, which can produce African easterly waves that seed some of the strongest and longer-lived Atlantic storms. Finally, light trade winds allow hurricanes to grow in strength without the disruption of strong wind shear, and also minimize ocean cooling. Human-caused climate change is warming our ocean globally and in the Atlantic basin, and melting ice on land, leading to sea level rise, which increases the risk of storm surge. Sea level rise represents a clear human influence on the damage potential from a given hurricane.
Enhanced communications in store for 2024 season
NOAA will implement improvements to its forecast communications, decision support and storm recovery efforts this season. These include:
- The National Hurricane Center (NHC) will expand its offering of Spanish language text products to include all Public Advisories, the Tropical Cyclone Discussion, the Tropical Cyclone Update and Key Messages in the Atlantic basin.
- Beginning on or around August 15, NHC will start to issue an experimental version of the forecast cone graphic that includes a depiction of inland tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings in effect for the continental U.S. Research indicates that the addition of inland watches and warnings to the cone graphic will help communicate inland hazards during tropical cyclone events without overcomplicating the current version of the graphic.
- This season, the NHC will be able to issue U.S. tropical cyclone watches and warnings with regular or intermediate public advisories. This means that if updates to watches and warnings for storm surge or winds are needed, the NHC will be able to notify the public in an intermediate advisory instead of having to wait for the next full advisory issued every 6 hours.
New tools for hurricane analysis and forecasting this year
- Two new forecast models developed by NOAA researchers will go into operation this season: The Modular Ocean Model or MOM6 will be added to the Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System to improve the representation of the key role the ocean plays in driving hurricane intensity. Another model, SDCON, will predict the probability of tropical cyclone rapid intensification.
- NOAA’s new generation of Flood Inundation Mapping, made possible through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will provide information to emergency and water managers to prepare and respond to potential flooding and help local officials better prepare to protect people and infrastructure.
- NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center, in partnership with the NHC, will issue an experimental rainfall graphic for the Caribbean and Central America during the 2024 hurricane season. This graphic provides forecast rainfall totals associated with a tropical cyclone or disturbance for a specified time period.
System upgrades in operation
NOAA will upgrade its observing systems critical in understanding and forecasting hurricanes. These projects will provide more observations of the ocean and atmosphere in the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, on the U.S. East Coast and in the tropical Atlantic.
- NOAA’s National Data Buoy Center recently upgraded many coastal weather buoys in the tropical western Atlantic and Caribbean to include time of occurrence and measurements of one-minute wind speed and direction, 5-second peak wind gust and direction and lowest 1-minute barometric pressure to support tropical cyclone forecasting.
- New this year, NOAA will gather additional observations using Directional Wave Spectra Drifters (DWSDs), deployed from the NOAA P-3 hurricane hunter aircraft and in the vicinity of Saildrones, uncrewed surface vehicles which will be deployed at the start of the hurricane season, providing one-minute data in real time. 11-12 Saildrones are planned for deployment in 2024.
- Starting in June, dozens of observational underwater gliders are planned to deploy in waters off the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico and the eastern U.S. coast. Additionally, a new lightweight dropsonde called Streamsonde will be deployed into developing tropical storms, collecting multiple real-time observations to collect valuable wind data.
- The CHAOS (Coordinated Hurricane Atmosphere-Ocean Sampling) research experiment aims to improve the understanding of air-sea interactions, providing sustained monitoring of key ocean features.
About NOAA seasonal outlooks
NOAA’s outlook is for overall seasonal activity and is not a landfall forecast. In addition to the Atlantic seasonal outlook, NOAA also issues seasonal hurricane outlooks for the eastern Pacific, central Pacific and western north Pacific hurricane basins. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center will update the 2024 Atlantic seasonal outlook in early August, prior to the historical peak of the season.
Read more » click here
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