Lou’s Views
“Unofficial” Minutes & Comments
BOC’s Regular Meeting 02/17/26
Board of Commissioners’ Agenda Packet » click here
Audio Recording » click here
1. Consent Agenda Items
a) Police Report
Agenda Packet – pages 8 – 13
Police Report » click here
b) Inspections Department Report
Agenda Packet – pages 14 – 17
Inspections Report » click here
c) Finance Department Report
Agenda Packet – pages 18 – 23
Finance Report » click here
d) Public Works Department Report
Agenda Packet – pages 24 – 25
Public Works Report » click here
2. Discussion and Possible Action on Audit Committee Taskers – Commissioner Myers
Agenda Packet – pages 31 – 35
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action on Audit Committee Taskers
Receive the recommendations from the Audit Committee regarding the taskers about occupancy taxes and the BPART fund balance that were assigned to them last August.
Possible Action
Motion to accept the committee’s work, thank them for their efforts, declare the taskers to be complete, and agree to consider the implementation of their recommendations during the 2026/27 budget development process.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Audit Committee met on January 16th to complete the two taskers that were assigned to them last August.
With regards to the tasker to advise the BOC about potential improvements to the collection of occupancy task revenues: the committee recommends a communications campaign combined with a process for people to submit challenges for properties they perceive to be non-compliant.
The communications campaign should be targeted at rental properties not associated with a professional property management firm. The effort should be focused on making sure these rental property owners are fully aware of their responsibilities and know about the materials available from the Town to help them comply with the requirements.
With regards to the tasker to advise the BOC about potential improvements to the management of the BPART fund balance: the committee recommends changes to the Town’s financial reporting practices and the adoption of a fund balance policy.
The committee recommends separation of the primary occupancy tax revenues (3% revenue) that must be used for tourism-related expenditures from the additional occupancy tax revenues (2% revenue) that must be used exclusively for beach nourishment and protection .
The committee also recommends the adoption of a BPART Fund Balance Policy to increase transparency to the public by clearly documenting how the two different occupancy tax revenue streams are collected and spent, enabling citizens to verify the 2% beach-restricted funds are used exclusively for beach projects and the 3% general tourism funds support the broader community tourism infrastructure, and how the unspent revenues that end up in the fund balance retain their designation.
Previously reported – August 2025
Discussion and Possible Action to Task the Audit Committee with Advising the Board Regarding Potential Improvements to the Collection of Occupancy Tax Revenues – Mayor Pro Tem Myers and Commissioner Thomas
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action to task the audit committee with advising the BOC regarding potential improvements to the collection of occupancy tax revenues.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The audit committee met with the auditor on June 26th and identified occupancy tax revenue collection as an issue worthy of further investigation.
TOWN ATTORNEY RECOMMENDATION:
If BOC is acting under 30.27(8)(9) of Town Charter to ask Audit Committee to advise on collection of occupancy tax revenue, then Audit Committee may advise but does not have the ability to enact any policy. lt is advised that any advice or recommendations received be confirmed to be within the confines of the law prior to being acted on in any form by BOC
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Defer to attorney’s opinion on the subject. Any referral to the Audit Committee should take into account the BPART law as they review it.
§30.27 AUDIT COMMITTEE.
(A) Creation, name and number of members. There is hereby established an Audit Committee which shall be comprised of a member of the Board of Commissioners and not less than two or more than four residents or property owners of the town as full members, plus one alternate.
(B) Powers and duties. The Audit Committee shall:
(1) Serve as an advisory committee for the town’s Board of Commissioners (BOC);
(2) Assist and advise the BOC in its oversight responsibilities for the town’s financial reporting process, systems of internal financial controls and the external audit process;
(7) Periodically confirm the suitability of the town’s internal control systems and/or policies, including information technology security and control;
(9) Perform other functions from time to time as shall be delegated or assigned to it by the BOC.
New Hanover County has had a hard time collecting occupancy tax. They have recently started to use software program to track rentals against the receipt of occupancy taxes. The County is buying the software with Towns able to opt in. Brunswick County and the Town of Holden Beach both have a financial stake in making sure the 6% Occupancy Tax is collected. Ocean Isle has been successful in its approach of the collection of Occupancy Tax. They have increased collections and made it more convenient for their property owners to submit the tax. Maybe we should get more creative in our occupancy tax collection efforts too.
Update –
The Audit Committee responded to the two (2) taskers that were assigned to them last August. Commissioner Myers discussed the taskers and the Audit Committees recommendations. Potential improvements to the collection of occupancy task revenues: the committee recommends a communications campaign combined with a process for people to submit challenges for properties they perceive to be non-compliant. Potential improvements to the management of the BPART fund balance: the committee recommends changes to the Town’s financial reporting practices and the adoption of a fund balance policy. The BOC’s thanked the committee for their efforts. The motion was made to declare that the taskers were completed and that they would consider their recommendations during the budget process.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
3. Discussion and Possible Approval of Ordinance 26-01, An Ordinance Amending the Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Section 30.27, Audit Committee – Town Clerk Finnell
Ordinance 26-01 » click here
Agenda Packet – pages 26 – 30
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action on Ordinance 26-01, An Ordinance Amending the Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Section 30.27 Audit Committee
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
At the January meeting, the Board requested staff draft an ordinance removing the requirement for a commissioner to be appointed as a member to the Audit Committee. Ordinance 26-01 which makes the change and corrects a couple of typos is included for the Board’s review. The proposed ordinance also incorporates a clarification to the meetings and attendance section as suggested by Commissioner Pate.
Staff recommends approval of Ordinance 26-01 if the Board would like to remove the requirement for a Board member to serve on the Audit Committee.
Previously reported – January 2026
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED
Discussion and Appointment of Commissioner to Serve on the Audit Committee
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Per §30.27 of the Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, a Commissioner shall be appointed to the Audit Committee in January of each year. The Board can vote by ballot or verbally to fill the position. If ballots are used, please make sure to sign your name on the ballot.
They briefly discussed why a Commissioner serves on the Audit Committee, noting that this is not standard practice for other Boards or Committees. By consensus, they agreed to allow Commissioner Myers the current Board member to continue serving on the committee until the next meeting. The BOC’s requested that staff return with a revised Ordinance removing the requirement for a Commissioner to be a member of the Audit Committee.
No decision was made – No action taken
Update –
BOC’s discussed and considered a number of changes to the Ordinance. They spent a considerable amount of time in what can be described as semantics. Tom lobbied for leaving the Ordinance as is, keeping the safeguards in place and providing valuable oversight, to no avail. The major change was the composition of the Board by eliminating having a Commissioner be part of the Audit Committee. They gave Heather direction to make several changes and bring back the revised Ordinance next month.
A decision was made – Approved (3-1)
Commissioner Myers opposed the motion
Besides making seemingly unnecessary changes they also questioned why we even have an audit committee. Simply stated, why not? Members of the community with financial expertise offer their service at no cost to the community. It’s just another way to monitor our finances to make sure everything is kosher. How is this important and urgent when they still have not addressed Rules of Procedures issues? Once again I question their priorities.
4. Discussion and Possible Action to Direct Advertisement of Tax Liens on Real Property – Fiscal Operations Specialist King
Agenda Packet – pages 36 – 49
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
The governing body must order the tax collector to advertise the tax liens.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
In February of each year, the tax collector must report to the governing body the total amount of unpaid taxes for the current fiscal year that are liens on real property.
Update –
Advertisement of tax liens is required by state statute. Penny asked the Board and was authorized to advertise the property tax liens.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
5. Discussion and Possible Approval of Contract between McGill Associates and the Town for Stormwater Improvement Projects – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 50 – 61
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action on a contract for McGill Associates.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Town issued an RFQ for engineering services for the current stormwater projects. Staff recommends McGill for these services as their submission was thorough and they have a vital understanding of the project areas as they completed the stormwater masterplan. The attached contract is for your consideration.
Previously reported – January 2026
Discussion and Possible Action on Selecting an Engineering Firm for the Town’s Stormwater Project – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action on an engineering firm for the Town’s stormwater project.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Town issued an RFQ for engineering services for the current stormwater projects. The RFQ was sent to several engineering firms and we spoke to some of them over the last couple weeks. Staff recommends McGill for these services as their submission was thorough and they have a vital understanding of the project areas from completing the stormwater masterplan. Staff suggests that a contract be brought back for consideration as soon as possible.
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Accept qualifications of McGill and direct the Manager to secure a contract for consideration.
Staff recommends selecting McGill and authorizing them to secure a contract for their consideration. This is a $2.9 million dollar project funded by the USACE, with 75% reimbursement available if we proceed according to the approved plans. Although there were some objections made during the Public Comments to the proposed plan, any changes at this stage could jeopardize the funding. The project is expected to be completed within nineteen (19) months.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
Update –
BOC’s at the January meeting instructed the staff to secure the stormwater improvement contract and present it for their consideration. The motion was made to approve contract with McGill subject to approval by the town attorney.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
6. Discussion and Possible Selection of Firm to Provide a Comprehensive Design Plan for Jordan Boulevard/Block Q Area – Town Manager Chadwick & Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – page 62, plus separate packets
McGill Block Q Jordan » click here
Pinnacle Block Q Jordan » click here
HDR Block Q Jordan » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action on RFQ’s for Block Q/Jordan Boulevard master plan.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Town issued a RFQ for architect/engineering services for the Block Q/Jordan Boulevard area master plan. Three submissions were received: McGill, HDR, and Pinnacle. Respondents were ranked using the nine criteria outlined in the RFQ (attached). McGill received the most points beating HDR by a score of 455 to 450. The BOC should consider what they want in the master plan final product before a contract comes back before the board.
TOWN MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION:
Board should decide what they want included in the final plan and which firm to complete the product.
Update –
There was discussion on the selection of a firm for a comprehensive design plan for the Jordan Blvd/Block Q Master Plan. Three (3) vendors were scored based on nine (9) criteria. HDR and McGill scores were very close. They chose to select McGill and awarded the contract tonight. A motion was made to accept the RFQ from McGill. They will have the planning department and staff work with the board to narrow the scope of the project.
A decision was made – Approved (3-1)
Commissioner Myers opposed the motion
7. Discussion and Possible Action to Change Paid Parking Enforcement Dates – Town Manager Chadwick
Agenda Packet – pages 63 – 64
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action to Change Paid Parking Enforcement Dates
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
At the January meeting, it was asked that staff bring back information concerning paid parking. Several commissioners requested to discuss the dates paid parking is enforced within Town limits.
Previously reported – January 2026
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Action to Change Paid Parking Enforcement Dates
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
Several commissioners have requested to discuss the dates paid parking is enforced within Town limits.
Alan included this item on the agenda so that the Board could review the parking program and assess whether any relief for the public might be possible. He emphasized that they need to gather information before making any decisions. The topic will be revisited at next month’s meeting.
This is what they consider important and urgent? Yet, filling the Board vacancy and revising the Rules & Procedures apparently are not priorities. At the very least, property owners deserve access to the monthly revenue figures. Why was this information not made available at the meeting? Both costs and revenues play a critical role in determining the Town’s financial position. Recently, expenses have surged with the purchase of new playground equipment (around $200,000) and planned construction of a concert stage (over $400,000), placing additional strain on the Town’s finances. Despite these rising costs, there now seems to be a proposal to reduce a key revenue stream as well. This strategy is difficult to justify, as it remains unclear how such actions would benefit island property owners. Their decisions appear to serve the interests of mainland residents rather than those who own property locally.
Editor’s note –
Holden Beach
Gross revenue: $1,188,392
Total parked vehicles: 66,659
As of Oct. 8, 2025, the town of Holden Beach has generated a total net revenue of $803,148 from its paid parking program, Varner said on Oct. 21. Varner said he expects the town to make $880,000 by the end of the year. This will be a small bump from the nearly $830,000 made in 2024, per Varner’s presentation.
The town of Holden Beach first implemented paid parking in 2022. Originally, the town enacted seasonal paid parking from April 1 to Oct. 31 with rates of $3 per hour, $15 per day, $60 per week, or $125 per year. In 2023 and 2024, the town increased parking rates to $5 per hour, $20 per day, $80 per week and $175 for a single vehicle annual pass and transitioned to year-round paid parking.
OTTO Connect counted a total of 66,659 vehicles parked on the island so far this year, a decrease of nearly 81,000 vehicles counted in 2024. Over 26,000 vehicles were counted in parking spaces in June and July alone.
Brunswick County paid parking programs in 2025
Holden Beach Year-round
Oak Island April 1st to September 30th
Ocean Isle Beach April 1st to October 31st
Sunset Beach April 1st to October 31st
2025 – Paid Parking Revenue
January $54,561
February $49,404
March $81,713
April $100,051
May $105,148
June $137,738
July $127,309
August $96,236
September $50,288
October $27,378
November $23,010
December $27,300
Update –
They discussed potential changes for the parking program. If we planned on suspending paid parking from November through March we are talking about reducing paid parking revenue by $235,988, a 26.81% reduction in revenue from this program, which is pretty significant. I was surprised when Keith suggested a reasonable comprise to just eliminate paid parking in November and December; which would still reduce the revenue by $50,310. He claims that this is to benefit residences and property owners of Holden Beach. After some discussion they decided they would review this item during the budget process.
No decision was made – No action taken
Their main talking point was that this change is intended to benefit the residents and property owners of Holden Beach. “Don’t pee on my leg and tell me it’s raining”! I seriously question whether eliminating paid parking truly benefits property owners. The Town still faces significant costs to provide necessary services. By having Otto handle parking enforcement, our police officers are freed up to focus on more pressing matters. Part of the narrative suggests that owners and their guests want to use paid parking areas without paying, but every property on the island is within walking distance of a beach access. If someone wishes to visit another part of the island, parking is a reasonable $5 per hour. Let’s be clear: are we really willing to forgo $50K in revenue just so a handful of households can avoid parking fees? This strategy is difficult to justify, as it remains unclear how such actions would benefit the majority of island property owners. In reality, it appears to primarily serve the interests of mainland residents rather than those who actually own property on the island.
8. Discussion and Possible Action on Establishing Federal Priorities – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson
Agenda Packet – pages 65 – 66
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action to formulate federal priorities for upcoming year.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
In the early part of each calendar year, the BOC is tasked with formulating the Town’s federal priorities that can be communicated for federal funding purposes and also to advocate for policy change. The attached memo outlines staff recommendations for areas of attention that the board may want to pursue.
Federal Priorities:
After discussion with our federal advocates, Ward and Smith, the following are my recommendations for our federal priorities in this order.
Funding
Lockwood Folly (LWF) Dredging Funding
Exploring Additional Funding Opportunities for Town Projects- stormwater, pier, etc.
Policy
FEMA
. * Advocacy- Cat G recreational beaches remain funded
. * Better understand proposed changes from the legislators’ perspectives
Beneficial Use of Dredged Material Placement
While the board has an additional policy opportunity available, I would suggest leaving this open for other areas of concern that may surface during the year.
Update –
The motion made was to accept the staff recommendations for our federal priorities for the upcoming year.
A decision was made – Approved unanimously
9. Town Manager Report – Town Manager Chadwick
Agenda Packet – pages 67 – 68
Town Manager Report » click here
Bryan reviewed the Town Manager Report
Beginning next month the report will not be distributed in the agenda packet
But it will be included in the THB Newsletter – Board of Commissioners Meeting Recap
Block Q Restrooms & Parking
In process.
Previously reported – November 2025
Grant extension was applied for with the state and timeline has been extended
Ocean Boulevard Stormwater
Contract is included in February agenda packet
Previously reported – January 2026
Considering RFQ’s for engineering services on the January agenda
Previously reported – December 2025
Staff met with the Corps for an initial meeting. Staff is working with them on next steps and to finalize the timeline.
Previously reported – June 2025
The Town was awarded $2.2M in Environmental Infrastructure Disaster Relief Funding for stormwater projects. To get started USACE requires the execution of the Project Partnership Agreement. The Town portion of the 2.2 million dollar project is 25%, which would cost us $550,000. The motion was made to approve the project partnership agreement with the USACE and have the town staff execute the paperwork.
Block Q Master Plan RFQ
Discussion and recommendation for a firm on agenda
Previously reported – January 2026
Proposals due back January 30th by noon
Recommendation for a firm planned for the February agenda
Block Q Stage Area
Final specs are completed for distribution in Request for Proposals
Bids will be returned to staff with a recommendation for approval by commissioners
Previously reported – January 2026
BOC to consider two designs at the January meeting
Pier Site
Future Scope of Work discussion TBD in the future
THB Newsletter (04/15/25)
Work has been completed and the pier parking lot and walkways are now open.
Please be mindful not to stand or sit under the pier structure.
NC Resilient Coastal Communities Program
Previously reported – January 2026
Information has been sent to organizations for dissemination of possible projects for community engagement
Previously reported – December 2025
The working group has been designated by Tim and the Planning staff.
Previously reported – November 2025
Engineer contacted Tim with next steps, which includes forming a working group
Phase 1 of the program is being implemented
They need to select three (3) members of the community as team members
Previously reported – August 2025
The Town was selected to receive a technical assistance award through the program
ESP Associates has been assigned as our engineer firm and will receive $70,000
Staff will have an orientation session regarding our phase of the program on 09/09Â
Previously reported – April 2025
N.C. Resilient Coastal Communities Program » click here
North Carolina Division of Coastal Management is accepting applications from eligible communities for no-cost technical assistance to complete Phases I and 2 of the Resilient Coastal Communities Program. The motion was made to complete an application to Resilient Coastal Communities Program by the deadline of April 25th, if it is at all possible.
Southeastern Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Previously reported – January 2026
Planning and Inspections have been working with Brunswick and Other Counties in the region to update the hazard mitigation plan. Commissioners will be presented a resolution to adopt the updated plan in the coming months.
Previously reported – February 2021
Southeastern NC Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan
This is an update to our regional Hazard Mitigation plan. This plan allows the town to be part of the required regional plan while maintaining autonomy within.
Staff has been involved with the process since the beginning of the update in July 2019. Some portions of the updates are mandatory on an associated regional basis. The only significant changes are those associated with our commitment to a stricter NFIP and the resiliency improvements to the town’s sewer lift station upfits.
FEMA requires that hazard mitigation plans be updated every five years to remain eligible for federal mitigation and public assistance funding. To prepare the 2021 Southeastern NC Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, ESP Associates. Inc. was hired by North Carolina Emergency Management to provide professional mitigation planning services for the plan update. Per the contractual scope of work, the consultant team followed the mitigation planning process recommended by FEMA (Publication Series 386 and Local Mitigation Plan Review Guide) and recommendations provided by North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM) mitigation planning staff. Additionally, for the update, FEMA Community Rating System (CRS) and Community Wildfire Protection Plan requirements were integrated into the plan update.
FEMA definition of Hazard Mitigation – Any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from hazards.
Halstead Park
Contractor will begin work the next couple of weeks
Previously reported – January 2026
Scope of work that was previously advertised needs to be changed to include new piles
Pier is closed due to safety until further notice as previously advertised
Auditor Selection
RFQs have been received for review by Staff and Audit Committee
Board of Commissioners planned selection at March meeting
Lockwood Folly Funding
Congress approved an appropriation of $900,000 for maintenance of the inlet
Canal Dredging
Plans are being made to dredge canals next winter
THB Newsletter (02/05/26)
In anticipation of a potential dredge event next winter, Coastal Geomatics will begin surveying the canals in mid-February. Their trucks will be seen parked on the side streets.
Ocean Isle Borrow Area
Ocean Isle has requested to expand the Shallotte borrow sight
Fran Way is composing a response for the Town
Ocean Isle seeks to modify permit, nourish beach at east inlet
Ocean Isle Beach hopes to pump tens of thousands of cubic yards of sand onto the beach at the easternmost tip of the island by this spring as an erosion stopgap. The Brunswick County town has asked the Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District for authorization to have up to 70,000 cubic yards of sand placed east of its terminal groin where erosion has been chipping away at the shoreline in front of a luxury neighborhood. The Corps announced late last week that it is accepting public comments through March 8 on the town’s application to modify the federal permit it received in 2016 to build the terminal groin at Shallotte Inlet. As it stands, that permit does not allow sand to be placed east of the terminal groin. A terminal groin is a wall-like structure built perpendicular to the shore at inlets to contain sand in areas with high rates of erosion. Proposed modifications to the permit include placing sand along an 1,875-foot stretch of shoreline at The Pointe, a gated community whose oceanfront property owners have been desperately trying to hold back an encroaching sea. Under the terms of the proposed permit changes, this would be a one-time beach nourishment project. The town is also asking for its permitted sand borrow source in Shallotte Inlet to be expanded from about 83 acres to a little more than 117 acres, to add a new borrow area within the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and be allowed to work outside of the environmental window for dredging from April 30 to June 15. Ocean Isle Beach Town Manager Justin Whiteside said on Tuesday that the town wants to get the modified permit as quickly as possible in hopes that the sand placement project would coincide with a federal dredging project. The Corps announced last September it had awarded a nearly $8.5 million contract to maintenance dredge several areas along the Intracoastal, including at the Shallotte Inlet crossing. Whiteside explained that Ocean Isle Beach anticipates receiving 25,000 cubic yards of sand “that the town is paying for” from the Corps through the inlet crossing project. “The hope is to get this permit modified within the timeframe that the Corps’ contractor is here on site and then we could contract with them possibly to dredge more in that federal channel or go into that inlet borrow area to put that additional sand there,” he said. Whiteside said the town does not yet have an approximate cost of its proposal to nourish the beach east of the terminal groin. Ocean Isle’s east end had for decades been losing ground to chronic erosion, the worst of which occurred along about a mile of ocean shoreline beginning near the inlet. An encroaching ocean claimed homes damaged, destroyed public utilities, and prompted the North Carolina Department of Transportation to abandon state-maintained streets there. To stave off further erosion, the town in 2005 was permitted to install a wall of sandbags to protect private properties from getting swallowed up by the sea. In 2011, Ocean Isle Beach was, along with a handful of other beach communities, allowed to pursue the option of installing a terminal groin at an inlet area after the North Carolina General Assembly repealed a law that banned hardened erosion control structures on the state’s ocean shorelines. Five years later, the town received state and federal approval to build a 750-foot terminal groin. But before construction could begin, the Southern Environmental Law Center in August 2017 filed a lawsuit on behalf of the National Audubon Society challenging the Corps’ approval of the project. More than three years passed before the lawsuit, which later included the town, concluded after an appellate court affirmed a lower court’s decision that the Corps fairly considered the alternatives included in an environmental impact statement examining the proposed project. Construction of the $11 million project was completed in the spring of 2022, the same year the final plan for The Pointe, a 44-lot subdivision, was approved for development. By fall 2025, The Pointe’s oceanfront properties were suffering significant erosion. Last November, the North Carolina Coastal Resources Commission unanimously agreed to grant permission to the owners of eight lots in that neighborhood to install larger than typically allowed sandbag structures waterward of their land. Whiteside said Tuesday that those sandbags had not been installed. Sand in the area east of the terminal groin, he said, appears to be “recovering a little bit.” “We think over the past month and a half or so that we’ve gained, just looking at aerial photographs, approximately 5,000 cubic yards of sand that’s deposited east of the groin, so some of the beach is building back up in that area,” Whiteside said. He explained that in 2022 the town’s federal beach nourishment project took place in conjunction with the construction of the terminal groin. “The dredger came through and we had a huge spit on the east end of the island and that contractor came through and just dredged right through that spit and took it down to a negative 15-foot elevation,” Whiteside said. “It’s kind of filled back in now and we’re thinking that’s why we’re seeing the growth back east of the groin. We’re hoping this shows that that’s some of what contributed to it, that it was maybe our own nourishment project through the Corps.” “But, in the meantime, we know this is a short-term solution that we’ve got to figure out some type of long-term solution to, so our engineer firm is going to be doing some modeling to see what kind of modifications, if any, need to take place to the existing groin,” he continued. Comments on the proposed project should refer the permit application number (SAW-2011-01241) and may be submitted to the Corps electronically through the Regulatory Request System at https://rrs.usace.army.mil/rrs or by email to Tyler Crumbley at tyler.a.crumbley2@usace.army.mil . Written comments may be mailed to Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington District, Attention: Tyler Crumbley, 69 Darlington Ave., Wilmington, NC 28403. The Corps will consider written requests for a public hearing to be held to consider the proposed application modifications.
Read more » click here
Commissioner Vacancy
Several commissioners have asked about the vacancy and the process to replace. Recommend you discuss at either a special meeting or the March meeting on process of filling the vacant position.
Update –
BOC’s discussed the various ways that they can proceed to fill the vacancy. They seemed to agree that it needs to be filled sooner rather than later. The decision was made to have the staff call for applications now and instructed them to utilize The Board Membership Application form with a request for a copy of a resume. Once they receive applications they will determine how to move forward
THB Newsletter (02/18/26)
Board of Commissioners’ Vacancy
There is currently a vacancy on the Holden Beach Board of Commissioners. If you are a resident and interested in filling the vacancy, please send your resume, along with a completed Application for Board Membership to Heather Finnell at heather@hbtownhall.com or to 110 Rothschild Street, Holden Beach, NC 28462 by March 11th.
Process for Filling Vacant Commissioner Position
§30.11 TERMS OF OFFICE; FILLING OF VACANCIES.
(A) Commissioner shall be two years, both of which begin on the day of first regular meeting in December following their election, except in case either is elected to serve an unexpired term, in which case the newly elected officers shall qualify and commence serving immediately upon the declaration of the result of the election by the Town BOC.
(B) Vacancies shall be filled as provided for in North Carolina General Statute § 160A-63
§160A‑63. Vacancies.
A vacancy that occurs in an elective office of a city shall be filled by appointment of the city council. If the term of the office expires immediately following the next regular city election, or if the next regular city election will be held within 90 days after the vacancy occurs, the person appointed to fill the vacancy shall serve the remainder of the unexpired term. Otherwise, a successor shall be elected at the next regularly scheduled city election that is held more than 90 days after the vacancy occurs, and the person appointed to fill the vacancy shall serve only until the elected successor takes office. The elected successor shall then serve the remainder of the unexpired term.
Coates’ Canons NC Local Government Law
G.S. 160A- 63says: “A vacancy that occurs in an elective office of a city shall be filled by appointment of the city council.” Does the “shall” in this sentence mean that they are required to fill the vacancy, or does it mean that if it is to be filled, the council is the body to fill it? There appears to be no case interpreting this provision, so it could be read either way. I think the safest and most appropriate reading is that the council must fill the vacancy.
The statute does not set a time frame within which this must be done. In contrast, the statute directing county commissioners to fill vacancies clearly requires them to do it and provides for the clerk of superior court to do it if the commissioners fail to within 60 days after the vacancy occurs. See, G.S. 153A-27. It could be argued that the difference suggests a legislative intent to allow cities an indefinite amount of time to fill the vacancy, but it’s hard to square that with the statute’s provision that city councils “shall” fill a vacancy. If there is no time within which the appointment must be made, in effect, they never have to make it. If the legislature intended this result, it seems that the statute would say they “may” fill the vacancy.
City council members sometimes suggest that they would prefer to leave it to the electorate to choose a new council member – essentially making a decision not to fill the vacancy before the next election. While this may reflect a genuine desire to avoid displacing the public’s opportunity to choose a council member, it opens the process up to manipulation. For example, in the case of an odd-numbered board operating with one less member, a decision not to fill the vacancy increases the role of the mayor in breaking ties. To avoid this, and to provide citizens with the benefit of deliberation and action by the full complement of members called for in the charter, the vacancy should be filled as soon as reasonably possible.
For more information » click here
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Regrettably, we now have an open seat on the Board. The Board needs to fill the vacant seat sooner rather than later since we have just begun the budget process. Coates’ Canons NC Local Government Law interprets shall be filled as mandatory therefore the Board must fill the vacancy. The vacancy should be filled as soon as possible, this is not optional. When Woody resigned they decided that although the statute states that the position is to be filled by appointment by the Board, they decided that they would consider anybody in the Town that wants to be a Commissioner. That Board agreed to request that anybody interested should submit their qualifications. I thought that was the right approach then and still do now.
Employee Updates
Once again, we filled vacant positions by promoting from within
Ryleigh Gleason was promoted to Utility Billing Specialist
Jessica Camara was promoted to Detective
Sergeant Adam Milligan graduated from FBI-Leeda Advance Leadership Institute receiving his Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate. This is the highest level of certification that can be obtained. An Advanced Law Enforcement Certification signifies an officer’s increased expertise beyond basic training, requiring extra education, training points, and experience.
FBI-LEEDA is dedicated to advancing law enforcement leadership through premier training, education, and networking. As an organization, FBI-LEEDA strives to enhance community quality of life by equipping its members with cutting-edge leadership skills and management practices.
Chief Dixon will be leaving at the end of February to take the place of the retiring chief in Shallotte
Chief Dixon addressed the community with a heartfelt emotional farewell message expressing his appreciation for the time that he had spent here.
HBPD Chief Dixon hired as Shallotte PD chief
The town of Shallotte last week announced it has hired current Holden Beach Police Chief Jeremy Dixon to replace outgoing Shallotte Police Chief Adam Stanley, who will retire in February. During the Jan. 6 Shallotte Board of Aldermen meeting, Chief Stanley announced that Chief Dixon had been selected to take his place. “My last day will be Feb. 2 — after 30 years of service, I’m retiring,” Stanley said. “The town has selected Chief Jeremy Dixon [as the new police chief]. He’s currently the chief of Holden Beach [Police Department] and he is a resident of Shallotte, who has been here 20-some years. He will be taking my place in March, and we are glad to have him.” The town of Shallotte in November announced Stanley would be retiring from his role as police chief, which he has held since 2022. The town in December conducted interviews for the police chief position prior to announcing Dixon’s hiring last week. The town of Holden Beach, on Wednesday, Jan. 7, announced it is accepting applications for the Holden Beach Police Chief position. Applications are due to the town by Feb. 2, the announcement noted. The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners is expected to discuss the vacancy during its Jan. 20 meeting.
Read more » click here
In Case You Missed It
Dog Reminders
Please remember that any time your dog is off your premise, they must be on a leash, cord or chain at all times. Also, dog owners must remove dog waste immediately after it is deposited by the dog when on public property or any private property, including vacant lots, without the permission of the private property owner. Dog waste stations are conveniently located throughout the island.
Emergency Operations Center
The EOC building is being used by Tri-Beach Fire Department while they renovate their fire station on Sabbath Home
National Flood Insurance Program: Reauthorization
Congress must periodically renew the NFIP’s statutory authority to operate. On 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
Upcoming Events
THB Newsletter (02/18/26)
Bookmobile
The County’s Bookmobile will be at Bridgeview Park on Wednesday, March 4th, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Visit https://www.brunswickcountync.gov/1066/Bookmobile for more information
Family Nighttime Easter Egg Hunt
The Town will hold its annual nighttime Easter Egg Hunt on Good Friday, April 3rd
10. Closed Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(6), Personnel – Mayor Pro Tem Dyer
No decision was made – No action taken
The agenda did not include Rules of Procedures
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- Why are there no rules of procedure changes/revisions on the agenda?
- Quorum definition now is not in compliance with the Town’s Code of Ordinances
° Huge brouhaha and lawsuit over this last year, where is Lisa Ragland now?
Rules of Procedure
Agenda Packet
DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE DIRECTION ON RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Town Clerk Finnell explained she provided the Board with a couple of versions of the rules. Attachment 1 is the current version, Attachment 2 is the previous version and Attachment 3 is the standard School of Government version.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Dyer to utilize Attachment 2. No second was made.
Commissioner Thomas suggested the Board take the current version and mark it up for the next meeting for discussion.
Motion by Commissioner Smith that we look at the current version, but we suggest changes tonight and implement them in January.
Commissioner Thomas would like the changes to be brought back in January and then adopt them in January. Commissioner Myers agreed it would be good to see the proposed changes before taking action. Commissioner Smith would like to revisit the power of the mayor to be part of quorum, which would also have to be addressed in the ordinance, and his duties. He also would like to look at the rule requiring two Board members to sponsor an item to be added to the agenda. Commissioner Dyer would like to look at Attachment 2 since those items are already addressed in that version. Commissioner Thomas said she believes there are items that are critical in the current version, like the cover sheet and executive session rules. She said the quorum is directly from the ordinance. She said the executive secretary can wait until January. The Board discussed how to move forward.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Dyer to accept Attachment 2 and proceed with that and any changes we can bring to the next meeting; second by Commissioner Smith.
Commissioner Pate asked about the quorum definition since Attachment 2 matches the state statute, not the Town ordinance. Town Clerk Finnell explained if Attachment 2 is adopted, the quorum would need to be changed to match the Town’s Code of Ordinances. Commissioner Myers said there are good additions in Attachment 1, like the quorum and the cover sheet and the conflict-of-interest. Commissioner Smith asked if the Board could take Mayor Pro Tern Dyer’s motion and add some of these items in. Town Clerk Finnell replied if the Board would like to take one of the versions and make changes to it, they can do that. They could also adopt Attachment 2 now, fix the quorum and then make changes in the future. They are the Board’s rules and can be changed however they choose. Using a cover sheet for agenda items was discussed. Commissioner Thomas would like to start with the current version and make changes. How to proceed was discussed.
Previously reported – December 2025
Rules of Procedure » click here
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Discussion and Possible Direction on Rules of Procedure
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
The Board of Commissioners is required to adopt rules of procedure. The current version the Board is using is included for your review (Attachment 1). I have also included the previous version the Board has utilized (Attachment 2) and the standard version from the School of Government (Attachment 3).
The Board may adopt a version of these rules as written or make amendments to them.
The Board is required to adopt some version of the Rules of Procedure each year. The Rules of Procedure were substantially revised in 2020 and again in 2022. The Board were presented with three options; see Rules of Procedure link above. The recommendation was to review the materials, markup the current version and have proposed changes presented at the January meeting. Instead they chose to adopt attachment #2 which is the version used prior to the 2022 changes. The Board may amend the rules at a future meeting if they determine it is necessary.
Summary
Rules of Procedure / 2024 represents a heavily customized and more restrictive version that:
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- Significantly limits the mayor’s voting and participatory powers
- Creates the new Executive Secretary role
- Establishes much more detailed public participation procedures
- Requires extensive documentation and transparency measures
- Imposes stricter procedural requirements throughout
- Tailored to address specific governance concerns or past issues in Holden Beach.
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For those following from home, after considerable outrage regarding the previous Board’s lack of attention to minority perspectives, the new Board proceeded to implement this decision with little regard for those concerns. There was absolutely no reason to force this vote tonight other than to be vindictive.
Hypocrisy – when someone pretends to have virtues, beliefs, or feelings they don’t actually have, often by saying one thing and doing the opposite.
Same As It Ever Was
Holden Beach commissioners revert board rules of procedure
The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners voted 3-2 Dec. 16 to adopt its rules of procedure following a tense discussion over what version it will use moving forward. The commissioners debated three options during the meeting: continuing to use the current rules of procedure, reverting to the version used by the previous board before January 2023 or adopting the standard template from the UNC School of Government. Mayor Pro Tem Page Dyer made a motion to adopt the version used by the prior board, referred to as “attachment two,” with the intent of revisiting the topic to make changes during the next meeting in January. The motion passed by a 3-2 vote with support from Commissioners Keith Smith and Sylvia Pate. Commissioners Tracey Thomas and Tom Myers voted against the motion to adopt attachment two. Both Thomas and Myers had a role in drafting and adopting the version that the board had been using until Dec. 16, referred to as attachment one, which had been amended in January 2023. “I have not had a chance to go through attachment two in detail,” Myers said, “but it seems it eliminates the cover sheet on the agenda topics. … There are some things that are out, that I think were good additions that should stay in there.” Thomas urged the board to instead start with attachment one and mark it up for review. She said she thought there were parts of that version that are critical to the board, such as the agenda topic cover sheets. “I would just like to make a suggestion that we take [attachment one] and mark it up for the next meeting,” Thomas said, “so that we can all see what and discuss line by line, what changes people would like to see in it.” The changes that Thomas and Myers made in 2023 included the creation of an executive secretary position, amended closed session procedures, adding an “agenda topic cover sheet” and more. The board elected Thomas as the executive secretary in January 2023, which gave her the power to create the agendas, assemble the meeting packets and authorize delivery and publication of the agendas, The Brunswick Beacon previously reported. Another key difference between the two versions was the definition of a quorum. Attachment two defined a quorum as the majority of the board plus the mayor, while attachment one allowed for a quorum to consist of three commissioners without the mayor. Commissioner Smith said he wanted to revisit the mayor’s authority, however he noted that changes related to quorum and the mayor’s voting power would require ordinance amendments. The board does not have the power to make ordinance amendments on a whim without holding public hearings. “I would like to revisit as a board,” Smith said, “the power of the mayor to be a part of quorum, … his ability to vote, his ability to lead the meeting, his ability to have a say in how the agenda is put together.” Smith also criticized a provision in attachment one that required two commissioners to sponsor an agenda item before it can be placed on the agenda, arguing that it creates unnecessary barriers for residents. “We are five people among 900 people, approximately, that vote,” Smith said, “If someone has to get a hold of two or more commissioners at the last minute, I think that puts an undue burden on a citizen.” Dyer said the concerns raised by Smith were addressed in attachment two and argued that adopting that version would give the board a clearer starting point before making additional changes during its next meeting. Before the board adopted attachment two, Pate noted that it must change the definition of a quorum to match the code of ordinances. She also said that she was open to making changes in the next meeting that align with some of the rules in attachment one. “There are some things that I’ll admit in attachment one, which is the current version,” Pate said, “that I do think are better than what was in the former version. So, I think we could add some stuff back.” The board then voted 3-2 to adopt attachment two, with a note to change the quorum definition and keep the agenda item cover sheets. It will continue the debate over the rules of procedure during its next meeting at 5 p.m. Jan. 20.
Read more » click here
Previously reported – January 2024
An important point that they made was that the basis of the document is the School of Government template and that all of the proposed changes were in previous versions of this document that we used before.
New Holden Beach commissioners change rules, procedures; add position
The Holden Beach Board of Commissioners during a Friday, Jan. 5, special meeting adopted new rules and procedures, elected an executive secretary and decided to re-work the proposed additional 35-plus budget meetings. During the meeting, tensions between both the board and attendees were high as questions swirled around the amount of time given to the public to review all the proposed changes and the purposes of those changes.
Some of the changes made were:
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- Creating an executive secretary position;
- Closed session procedures concerning purchasing, leasing and exchanging real property: Disclosing the property owner, location and the town’s intent for the property;
- Making all meeting documentation available online;
- Adding an “agenda topic cover sheet,” and more.
There were also numerous wording changes throughout the rules and procedures document, too. Commissioner Rick Smith was not physically at the meeting but joined in via phone call. He could participate in discussions but could not vote because he was not physically present. Since the agenda packet for the special meeting was not published until Wednesday, citizens had only 48 hours before the meeting to review the 40-page document, including the amended rules and procedures. The 24-page amended rules and procedures did not include the 19-page original document for the public to compare the differences. Numerous residents spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting, asking the board to hold off voting on the changes until the new commissioners complete their new commissioner training sessions later in the month. Twelve submitted written public comments requested the board to postpone action, too. Commissioner Page Dyer agreed with the public commenters and urged the board to hold off on the decisions until the new commissioners complete their training, which would also give the public more time to review the changes. Dyer was the only commissioner who voted in opposition to amending the rules and procedures and said she was uncomfortable adopting the changes and questioned if the changes were legal. “… It was approximately 48 hours,” she said. “And for the public to have to be able to go through that much documentation without indication of what was changed, for the average layperson that’s not gone through any municipality training, that’s going to be difficult for them to digest.” Town Attorney Rick Green did not attend the special meeting nor join through a phone call, so commissioners were unable to ask for immediate legal guidance to aid in their decisions. Smith agreed with Dyer, and both suggested waiting to make the amendments until Green is in attendance to address questions and give legal advice. Commissioner Rick Paarfus said all changes were discussed with the Town Manager David Hewett and Town Clerk Heather Finnell before proposing them to the board, noting that many of the amendments were taken from past town rules and procedures. “We are required to get a set of rules and procedures in place,” he noted. “It should’ve been done at the last meeting.” Paarfus also said he believes the newly approved document will make the town more transparent and bring clarity to residents in understanding town projects and plans. Mayor Pro-Tem Tom Myers said the amendments were based on the UNC School of Government template and were heavily scrutinized before being proposed. He said the changes were needed to make Holden Beach stronger in their government as a whole. “Like it or not, we have a weak mayor form of government,” he added. Myers and Paarfus said all the changes were supposed to be made at the December meeting. The new rules will improve the government of the town and will bring back “good practices,” Myers noted. After approving the new rules and procedures, Paarfus motioned for Commissioner Tracey Thomas to serve in the newly added executive secretary position. The motion passed three to one, with Dyer being the only opposing vote. Thomas said the position will add more “control” to agendas and said the commissioners in favor of the changes believe they are the best way to move forward with meetings.
The executive secretary’s role, as stated on pages 11 and 12 of the approved rules and procedures, is to:
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- Create the agenda;
- Assemble the meeting packet;
- And authorize the delivery and publication of the agenda.
Paarfus said Town Clerk Heather Finnell does a great job and that the executive secretary will ensure that agenda items are thorough and filled with sufficient information, noting that the new role does not have the authority to prevent items from getting on the agenda. “[The executive secretary’s] primary function is to make sure that all the information is there and it’s clear so the public can review it,” he said. “That’s it. And it hasn’t been happening, so that’s what we want to do.” Myers said the secretary will serve on the board and that the board could take future action if the position did not work out or if changes are wanted. Thomas said that the position is a collaborative role that will include working with the Town Clerk and making sure all agenda items are completed with the needed materials. Although Thomas stated the position was for collaboration, Dyer, Smith and Mayor Alan Holden said they thought the position was a slap in the face to Finnell’s role and previous and current work with the town, noting she has been awarded as the “top clerk” in North Carolina in the past. “You haven’t had the first training course and you’re deciding that this lady, the number one clerk in the State of North Carolina, doesn’t know what they’re doing,” Holden said, directed towards Thomas, Paarfus and Myers. Dyer said she hasn’t experienced any issues with the agenda before and that the hired staff is able, and has been able, to complete tasks for the board. She and Smith both said the added position is not necessary. Dyer also noted that the town’s charter states the town manager is the person who directs staff and wondered if having a commissioner direct staff would be a violation of the charter. In an earlier discussion in the meeting, Holden also said he sees these actions as changing the town’s charter and questioned if it is a violation. “I’m not directing Heather, I’m just working with Heather,” Thomas replied to Dyers comment. “Like I said, it’s a collaborative effort.” Throughout the meeting, Paarfus and Myers said the changes could be revised, amended or fixed in the future if they are not correct or legal. The three commissioners seeking the changes just want to get a foundation in place they maintained. The board also adopted an “agenda topic cover sheet” to be added to agenda items. The sheet breaks down an issue or action, its potential fiscal impact, associated contracts and agreements and notes different staff recommendations. Smith stated multiple times that he sees these actions as the three newly elected commissioners working together as “a team” to change how the town runs. Holden, during the rules and procedures discussion, called the three commissioners’ steps “a grab of power.” “Why can’t we listen to the people, why can’t we take advantage of the number one clerk in the state of North Carolina,” Holden said. “Why do we throw all of this aside for a power grab? And that is exactly what it is.” One action on the agenda included adding over 35 additional meetings between January and June. The meetings were labeled as budget meetings and were proposed to be held every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:00 a.m. There were occasional special meetings scheduled, too. Several public comment speakers, as well as Dyer, Smith and Holden, said the meetings were at an unrealistic time for residents, and commissioners, with jobs. “Unless I shut down my business, I cannot attend a meeting every other day at 10:00 a.m.,” Dyer said. Dyer also questioned why the two or so additional budget meetings the board has had in the past weren’t enough. Paarfus, Myers and Thomas said that the meetings were set during work hours, so staff did not have to work late and that a lot of the meetings were expected to be brief. They said they felt they needed more time with each department to learn the budget and department needs because they are new to the board. “No votes are going to be taken…,” Myers said. The board agreed to hold off on taking action on a Board of Commissioners budget meeting schedule and work together to create a schedule to ensure all commissioners and the mayor can attend; this was the only unanimous vote. The schedule is supposed to be discussed at the next regular meeting on Jan. 23. “It’s going to be a rough ride,” Mayor Holden said. Town staff stayed quiet throughout the meeting and did not weigh in on discussions, nor did the board request to hear their input. This story only covers some of the information or details discussed and shared at the meeting. The meeting agenda packet, new rules and procedures and video are publicly accessible online. The entire agenda packet with the new amendments can be found on the Town of Holden Beach’s website at https://hbtownhall.com/agendas
Read more » click here
General Comments
BOC’s Meeting
The Board of Commissioners’ next Regular Meeting is scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month, March 17th
Budget Season
They have not established the budget meeting schedule yet.
Budget Calendar
The Town Manager’s proposed budget is due by June 1st
Commissioners must adopt budget no later than June 30th for the next fiscal year
Adopting the annual budget is a primary responsibility of the Board.
It’s not like they don’t have anything to work on …
The following five (5) items are what’s In the Works/Loose Ends queue:
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- 2019 – Dog Park
- 2021 – Pier Properties Project
- 2021 – Rights-of-Way
- 2021 – Block Q Project/Carolina Avenue
- 2023 – Fire Station Project
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The definition of loose ends is a fragment of unfinished business or a detail that is not yet settled or explained, which is the current status of these items. All of these items were started and then put on hold, and they were never put back in the queue. This Board needs to continue working on them and move these items to closure.
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Lost in the Sauce
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From 2025 / Bike Lane
ISSUE/ACTION REQUESTED:
Consideration and possible action to engage in an agreement with NCDOT regarding bike lane maintenance.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
There has been some concern regarding care and maintenance of the bike lanes. NCDOT does not perform that service to the expectation of our needs and we do not have the capacity in-house to accomplish the task. This agreement allows NCDOT to reimburse the town for four events (quarterly) up to the total amount disclosed in the contract.
ASSISTANT TOWN MANAGER’ S RECOMMENDATION:
Direct interim town manager to execute agreement.
After discussion with NCDOT, the attached agreement is for your consideration to allow for maintenance sweeping of the bike lanes. This allows NCDOT to reimburse the town for quarterly maintenance. A budget amendment would be required because we would expend the funds up front and then get reimbursed. Per the NCDOT Assistant Maintenance Engineer, Jessi Leonard, the town could elect to do sweeping more frequently than quarterly but it would be at our expense.
Discussion on the maintenance service agreement for the over six (6) mikes of the bike lane on Ocean Boulevard. This allows the NCDOT to reimburse the town for quarterly maintenance of the bike lane at an annual cost not to exceed $31,480. Motion made was to execute the contract and to approve the budget Ordinance. The Board also requested that Inspections Director Evans look into changing our ordinance to allow impervious material between the driveway and street to prevent gravel from driveways getting into the bike lane.
Bike Lane Maintenance
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A significant number of locations of the bike lane have sand, gravel, rocks, and broken glass from recycling trucks. Therefore, it is UNSAFE especially for young and/or inexperienced bicycle riders. Not a good situation, if someone goes down they could easily slide into the traffic lane, which would have some serious negative consequences. NCDOT only provides maintenance service a few times a year. Standard protocol is for the town to take care of the bike lane with their staff. This is a safety issue that needs to be addressed, sooner rather than later. Do not think that quarterly maintenance is really adequate although it is better than nothing.
Hurricane Season
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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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News from Town of Holden Beach 
Sand is vanishing on east side of Ocean Isles $11M erosion fix
Hurricane Vehicle Decals
THE PROVING GROUND 
THE INTRUDER 
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