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HomeMy WebLinkAbout19801_COMFORT SUITES_19980402 (2)CAMA -AND DAtEDGE -AND F16L GENERAL PERMIT N`161 019801- G 'as authorized by the State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources and theCoastt I Resources Commission in an area of environmental concern pursuant to 15A NCAC d�%r• gweq `'.:Cb S 5; Applicant Name ��' l'r u' -S a � `� ��� �s) Phone Number �?� N` Address P/e e-Q_s/ rCity __ A441 Zly-11 State Vf,' zip Project Location (County, State Road—Water Body, etc.) 047 f Q • -A3 1% Type of Project Activity r, >+r - .,n rsra /,' ; �• , PROJECT DESCRIPTION I SKETCH Pier (dock) length Groin length max, distance offshore Basin, channel dimensions cubic yards Boat ramps dimensions Other r/vr•�'3 r� l Fiir7 � G„ (SCALE: ?�-G— orf"4Z Ci.�_1 0 z4vllt �� Y- Z CA cf CSS tiSfi7Fd�7 C5'J Q%�i�/��c �r! f a a SC c�'a�ri t ?0- 9;Q. ��� � :j�-tea/ •>lr�•'�<�- /� � , L? u' �ir t` fD �C✓ +c ' . / ! V F6,; This permit is subject to compliance with this application, site Ri drawing and attached general and specific conditions. A'y ) �F violation of these terms may subject the permittee to a fin , �� imprisonment or civil action; and may cause the permit to be- come null and void. This permit must be on the project site and accessible to the t permit officer when the project is inspected for compliance. 1 P P ._ The applicant certifies by signing this permit that 1) this pro- ject is consistent with the local land use plan and all local ordinances, and 2) a written statement has been obtained from h;.ad1acent riparian landowners certifying that they have no objections to the proposed work. issuing date attachments 6 //f ;0'd0 ri In issuing this permit the State of North Carolina certifies that P ' this project is consistent with the North Carolina Coastal application fee S0 ` Management Program. applicant's signature ,.,-_, it officer's signature expiration date Comfort Suites c/o Mr. Dan Foley Foley & Foley Contractors, Inc. P.O. Box 3482 New Bern, NC 28564 Dear Mr. Foley: NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT /,V' March 31, 1998 This correspondence is in reference to CAMA General Permit #018594-C that I issued to the Comfort Suites on February 10, 1998. This permit authorized the reconfiguration of their docking facilities located on the Neuse River, in New Bern, North Carolina. At that time, I was led to believe that proper notification was given to both riparian property owners and proceeded with permit issuance. However, as you may recall from our numerous telephone conversations, it has come to my attention that Mrs. Elizabeth Civils, the upstream property owner was not properly informed. Therefore, I must revoke CAMA General Permit #018594-C. We have discussed this matter over the telephone and you have agreed to stop work on the project. This letter will serve as formal notification that the permit is no longer valid and that any work authorized by the permit must immediately be stopped. I am aware that as of this date you have properly notified Mrs. Civils and have asked that a valid permit be issued authorizing the work. Once I have reviewed the new information provided I will proceed with permit issuance if appropriate. If you have any questions regarding this matter, please don't hesitate to contact me at my Morehead City Office (919-808-2808). Sincerely, M. Ted Tyndall Coastal Management Rep. cc: Charles Jones - Assistant Director, DCM l tI MOREHFAD CITY OFFICE HEBTRON PLAZA II 151-8 HIGHWAY 24 MOREHEAD CITY NC 26557 PHONE 919- 808-2808 FAX 91 S-247-8980 AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY /AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER - 80% RECYCLEO/10% POST -CONSUMER PAPER ai SENDER: v ■Completemitems 1 and/or 2 for additional services. tll ■Coplete items 3, 4a, and 41b. 01 ■ Print your name and address on the reverse of this form so that we can return this 2 card to you. SI > ■Attach this form to the front of the mailpiece, or on the back if space does not d permit. y ■ Write "Return Receipt Requested" on the mailpiece below the artidle number. ■The Return Receipt will show to whom the article was delivered and the date C delivered. 0 o 3. Article Addressed to: 4a. Article Number 0. E �l� \� 4b. Service Type SRN !y ❑ Registered�� /�/-p C ❑ Express Mail rCp ❑ Return Receipt for W andi 7. Date of Deliv M Z p5. Received By: (Print Name) 8. Addressee's dd,`_�l and fee is paid) I also wish to receive the following services (for an extra foe): 4i 1. ❑ Addressee's Address 2. ❑ Restricted Delivery Consult postmaster for fee. -EL g b. signature: (Addressee or Agent) { P X d ified rn Insured c COD w requested PS Form 3811, December 1994 102595-97-6-0179 Domestic Return UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 2 M ccA USP • Print your name, address nd ZIP Code in this box • FOLEY &IOLEY M AR IN E.CONTRACTORS, INC. P.O. Box 3482 New Bern, North Carolina 28564-3482 4131tiltil441f1!l�iftiSfl�E{t{f1 SENDER: ■Complete items 1 and/or 2 for additional services. I also wish to receive the ■Complete items 3, 4a, and 4b. following services (for an ■ Print your name and address on the reverse of this form so that we can return this extra feel: card to you. ■Attach this form to the front of the mailpiece, or on the back if space permit. ■Write'Return Receipt Requested'on the mailpiece below the article ■The Return Receipt will show to whom the article was delivered and delivered. 3.�Article �Addressed to re—A 1 C) \ CC) C Ps f=orm 3811, December 1994 102595-97-8-0179 Domestic Return R ai does not 1. ❑ Addressee's Address 2 number. 2. ❑ Restricted Delivery W the date ., r Consult postmaster for fee. -EL) 'd 4a. Article Number d �� tx E' 4b. Service Type �I ❑mastered 0--CUMed ❑ Express Mail ❑ Insured S r ❑ Return Receipt for Merchandise ❑ COD w. 7. Date of Delivery �i o Addressee's'Address (Only if requested and fee is paid) t i Ps f=orm 3811, December 1994 102595-97-8-0179 Domestic Return R UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE First-CJass Mail Postage & Fees Paid USPS Permit No. G-10 0 Print your name, address, and ZIP Code in this box • Fog,X, AI ARN7RACTORS, INC. P.O. Box 3482 New Bern, North Carolina 28564-3482 /-ASW .Zt,.rY o C•c -� loo tz '" ivsodoad O o o - N O 4 - V t N- P 120 WEST FIRE TOWER ROAD POST OFFICE BOX 8088 GREENVILLE, N.C. 27835-8088 TELEPHONE (919) 355-3030 FACSIMILE (919) 756-3689 UNIVERSITY CORPORATE CENTER 127 RACINE DRIVE POST OFFICE BOX 7068 WILMINGTON, N,C. 28408-7068 TELEPHONE (910) 392-5100 FACSIMILE (910) 392.2333 WARD AND SMITH, P.A. ATTORNEYS AT LAW 1001 COLLEGE COURT POST OFFICE BOX 867 NEW BERN, N.C. 28563-0867 TELEPHONE (919) 633-1000 FACSIMILE (919) 636.2121 February 27, 1998 VIA TELECOPIER ORIGINAL VIA CERTIFIED MAIL RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED N.C. Division of Coastal Management Post Office Box 769 Morehead City, North Carolina 28557 RE: Comments re Comfort Suites Docks and Gazebo Dear Sir: SUITE 2400 TWO HANNOVER SQUARE FAYETTEVILLE STREET MALL POST OFFICE BOX 2091 RALEIGH, N.C. 27602-2091 TELEPHONE (919) 836-1800 FACSIMILE (919) 836-1507 MAR 0 2 1998 With reference to CAMA General Permit No. 018594-C issued February 10, 1998 and the Exemption from CAMA permit issued the same date, notice of which was received February 17, 1998 by Mrs. Harvey Civils and the undersigned, we wish to offer the following comments on behalf of Mrs. Civils. Unnecessarily Endangers Adjoining Property. Our client is strongly opposed to the construction of these two structures on the grounds that they will unnecessarily endanger her property. The facilities are proposed to be constructed at a very vulnerable location on the Neuse River. This site is on the open part of the Neuse facing eastward near Union Point, and is directly in the path of any storm tracking up the Neuse River. As evidenced by the damage caused by Hurricane Bertha in 1996 (see enclosed photos taken immediately after the hurricane), this location on the river is especially vulnerable to storm damage. At that time, several boats that were docked at the Comfort Suites docks, together with large sections of the docks themselves, were blown into Mrs. Civils yard and against her house, causing damage to her dwelling, bulkhead and yard. Similar damage surely would have occurred again during Hurricane Fran in September 1996, but for the WARD AND SMITH, P.A. N.C. Division of Coastal Management February 27, 1998 Page 2 fact that the docks had already been destroyed six weeks earlier during Hurricane Bertha. It is an absolute certainty that there will be other major storms and hurricanes impacting this vulnerable portion of the Neuse River. It is just a matter of time. When such storms occur, Mrs. Civils property, because of its location relative to the Comfort Suites docks, will again be in the direct path of boats and docks from the Comfort Suites, crashing against the shore and into her house and yard. We do not contend that all docks on the Neuse River or elsewhere on the coast inherently endanger adjoining properties. Our contention is that Division of Coastal Management staff must evaluate the location, size, proximity to adjoining properties, and directional relationship to nearby properties of each proposed dock in order to fulfill their regulatory responsibility. The staff should also consider the availability of intervening protective structures or land features, history of damage to adjoining properties, and other relevant factors in making a determination regarding "unnecessary endangerment." This determination is best made in the context of an individual CAMA permit. In fact, the General Permit rules do not authorize issuance of a General Permit and require that an individual permit be obtained if the proposed structure "might" endanger adjoining properties. 15A N.C. Admin Code § 7H .2004(e). We understand that the CAMA staff historically has relied on the fact that a docking facility must obtain a building permit that demonstrates the facility is constructed in conformance with the state building code. While the integrity of the structure is important in minimizing the risk to adjoining properties, we do not believe it is the only factor that should be considered. We contend that no wooden gazebo or small boat dock, no matter how well .constructed, can withstand the forces of a major storm or hurricane in certain particularly vulnerable locations. This fact, together with the existence of residences or other occupied structures immediately downwind from the proposed docking facility, should be sufficient to deny an application for a permit under 15A N.C. Admin. Code § 7H .2000. It is also noteworthy that the permit issued to the Comfort Suites does not include any condition requiring that compliance with the state building code be demonstrated or even that a building permit be obtained. Thus, Division staff has no way of knowing whether WARD AND SMITH, P.A. N.C. Division of Coastal Management February 27, 1998 Page 3 the lone feature of its present "unnecessary endangerment" determination is being fulfilled. Docking Facility Especially Objectionable Mrs. Civils finds the reconstruction of the docking facility nearest her property to be especially objectionable. In addition to the threat posed to her property by this dock, its location and configuration assures .that any boats using the dock must turn in front of her property and enter the slips from the north side. This will have the effect of increasing the noise, fumes and other undesirable impacts associated with boating activity immediately in front of one's property. In Mrs. Civils' case, these facilities will also significantly detract from her view of the river, being positioned directly in her line of site down the river. In short, she does not understand why she must bear the undesirable impacts of a commercial dock constructed for the benefit of an adjoining commercial venture. At the very least, she believes these docks should be incorporated into the pier and gazebo structure or configured so that boats using the docks are not forced to navigate exclusively in front of her home. She also requests that the representation made by the Comfort Suites that it will not rent slips or provide other commercial services at the docking facility or pier/gazebo structure be incorporated into the exemption and/or permit as an express condition. Ouestionable Legal Authority for Exemption We also question the validity of the exemption granted with respect to the docking facility. This exemption was purportedly granted under an emergency policy for which no one in the Division could produce a rule or citation. We ultimately were referred to the Governor's Office for information concerning any emergency declarations following Hurricane Bertha. Unless the Division can provide some legal support for its exemption policy, we question whether the exemption granted to the Comfort Suites to reconstruct the dock is legally valid. In addition to the possible absence of any supporting authority, it is unclear as to whether the Comfort Suites obtained its exemption in a timely manner. We could find no record of an application for an exemption filed prior to the expiration of the exemption policy on July 31, 1997 (which we are informed by CAMA staff was extended until October 31, 1997). WARD AND SMITH, P.A. N.C. Division of Coastal Management February 27, 1998 Page 4 Adequacy of Notice to Adjoining Property Owners Finally, we question the adequacy of the notice provided to adjoining property owners. Mrs. Civils is unable to determine whether she ever received notice of the original permit application in 1991 or the modified permit in 1993. One thing is clear. It is clear that inadequate notice was provided to Mrs. Civils last month regarding the Comfort Suites general permit application for the pier and gazebo structure. On that occasion, a document that did not pertain to the CAMA permit was mailed to Mrs. Civils by certified mail, return receipt requested. According to Ted Tyndall, a green card showing that the item was signed for was provided by the Comfort Suites to the Division. No copy of the documents mailed to Mrs. Civils was provided to the Division. Only after we investigated this permit application further did it come to light that inadequate notice had been provided. The contractor involved quickly offered to apply for a new permit and re -notice Mrs. Civils by providing the correct documents, as required by law. That incident leads us not only to question CAMA's notice requirements generally, where no proof of what documents were mailed to adjoining property owners is required to be submitted to the Division, but also to wonder whether the same faulty notice procedure may have been employed in 1991 and 1993. CAMA file records only show a certified mail receipt in October 1991. Reportedly, a copy of the documents mailed to Mrs. Civils do not appear in the file. Thus, if some unrelated documents are mailed, as was the case in January 1998, how can adjoining property owners learn of their legal right to comment on an application within the specified period? Furthermore, how can the Division be sure its permit is valid if there is no proof that adjoining property owners were served with the correct documents? In summary, there is no proof that adequate notice was ever provided by the Comfort Suites with regard to the original structures and, thus, the exemption for the docking facility would be invalid if the original permit was invalid. We request that the Attorney General's Office review this situation and provide a legal analysis and opinion concerning the adequacy of each notice required in this instance by the rules, the validity of the applicant's certification of notice and the validity of the resulting permits issued to Comfort Suites. In conclusion, we ask that you give serious consideration to Mrs. Civils concerns regarding these facilities. They will unnecessarily endanger her property, as proven by the damage she WARD AND SMITH, P.A. N.C. Division of Coastal Management February 27, 1998 Page 5 sustained in 1996 (without compensation by the Comfort Suites or their boat tenants), and will result in adverse noise and other undesirable impacts. She is particularly concerned about the location and proximity of the docking facility presently being reconstructed. Yours very ruly, Frank H. Sheffie Jr. FHS: fs NBMAIN\315118.1 Enclosures cc: Mrs. Harvey Civils Mrs. Eleanor Civils NA —."C �. � w• .fig', e ' - > �3�-�4rr;:t- ,.sa'�• �,TWO TIt I AN fir.. $... �.. ~ .. _ ."'q�_= f � ' ern• s �II� a 71. rl f - h - tit Acaw JIVAO, f) I it, w z J w CL O W U Z W W L- w w W Z w EL O CL w Z a .f A REFERENCE.' PROPERTY -LINE BEARINGS AND DISTANCES PER CERTIFIED/SEALED DOCUMENTS/DRAWINGS —7 PROPOSAL III GAZEBO O O 110 O O 24.00' NOTE: DIMENSIONS SHOWN ARE SET PARALLEL/PERf ENDICULAR TO 10 90 ANGLE----"'� AILS, w z w CL O Or CL iE O z w U Z w W�W L� W w Z W O cr Q_ Q W 0 FEB 0 5 1998 ►�Z�b%9if1�. °A��N•G ARD •,'' • �E g 1 14 REV.A EDIT/REVISE PLAN PER CUSTOMER COMMENTS/SPECIFICATIONS. BY:RGS:1-20-98 PA 1 n ON CIVIL FENE ENGINEERING ENVIROMMEN AL NEW BERN, NORTH CAROLINA - (919) 637-7571 * COMFORT SUITES * NEW BERN, NORTH CAROLINA DOCK/PIER RECONSTRUCTION, GAZEBO ADDITION SITE/SKETCH PLAN scat. ,a 1/4 m 1'—d' Data. 1-20-98 Appoww Dr. "eat 0 2095 C*dfnw RGQL—B02 ShImL 2 of 4 I 2x8 PT DECK 2x8 PT STRINGERS FINGER PIER ATTACHMENT w/ 1/2 0 THRU—BOLTS 5/8"0 GALV.THRU—BOLT w/ OGEE OR FLAT WASHERS *195'-11 1/2" 5/8"0 GALVANIZED LAG BOLT(s) STRINGER—to—PILING w/ OGEE OR FLAT WASHER (TYP) cn Z J D_ NOTE: ALL HARDWARE TO BE HOT DIPPED GALVANIZED BOARDWALK C ENCE: DETAIL—ANGLE ANCHOR x8 PT BRACE(s) .,r BOARDWALK A, B 5/8"O GALV.LAG BOLTS, PIER—to—STRINGER TOLBOTT MS OFO BE CUT DEC BOARDSSH BOARDWALK D FINGER PIER UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED 5/8"0 GALV.LAG BOLTS, STRINGER—to—PILING-5/8"0 GALV.LAG BOLTS, STRINGER—to—PILING r-5/8"0 GALV.LAG BOLTS. STRINGER—to—PILING r-5/8"0 GALV.LAG BOLTS, STRINGER—to—PILING FINGER PIER I A, fY' nnon 2x8 PT DECKING 6'-0" BOARD 42'-0" 2'-5 1/2"2'-5 1/2" 2x8 STRINGERS 2x8 PT DECKING --Iw 11 • 2x8 PT BRACE(s) 6'-3" 5'-9" INDICATES PILING CENTERLINE MAY VARY t 1" PER PILING DIAMETER USED 5/8"0 GALV.THRU—BOLT EXISTING RIVER BOTTOM 6 —O" BOARD 2'-5 1 2" II -- 2x8 PT RINGERS DOCK/PIER RECONSTRUCTION, GAZEBO ADDITON 4'-3" li *2Ll'-7' �I Prot—tr 2095 QARD" � �..r 3 of 4 II • �IIIIII BOARDWALK A, B 5/8"O GALV.LAG BOLTS, PIER—to—STRINGER TOLBOTT MS OFO BE CUT DEC BOARDSSH BOARDWALK D FINGER PIER UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED 5/8"0 GALV.LAG BOLTS, STRINGER—to—PILING-5/8"0 GALV.LAG BOLTS, STRINGER—to—PILING r-5/8"0 GALV.LAG BOLTS. STRINGER—to—PILING r-5/8"0 GALV.LAG BOLTS, STRINGER—to—PILING FINGER PIER I A, fY' nnon 2x8 PT DECKING 6'-0" BOARD 42'-0" 2'-5 1/2"2'-5 1/2" 2x8 STRINGERS 2x8 PT DECKING --Iw 11 • 2x8 PT BRACE(s) 6'-3" 5'-9" INDICATES PILING CENTERLINE MAY VARY t 1" PER PILING DIAMETER USED 5/8"0 GALV.THRU—BOLT EXISTING RIVER BOTTOM 6 —O" BOARD 2'-5 1 2" 2'-5 1/2- 2"2x8 -- 2x8 PT RINGERS DOCK/PIER RECONSTRUCTION, GAZEBO ADDITON 2x8 PT INGERS 2x -- 4- 2x8PT BRACE(s) • DOCK/PIER RECONSTRUCTION, GAZEBO ADDITON 4'-3" *2Ll'-7' Dot 1-20-98 Prot—tr 2095 3 PT DECKING PRE—APPROVED EQUAL OR FABRICATED PART; GALVANIZED 2 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 1/4" ANGLE(s) ACCESS PIER 1 2" 1 2" BOLT HOLES R RN RN R W) 10 s N CV 9/160 FINGER PIER R BOLT HOLES BEND ANGLE N AS REQUIRED DETAIL - ANGLE ANCHOR 1' REFERENCE SHEET 2of4 FOR SITE SKETCH PLAN, AND SHEET 4of4 FOR GAZEBO PLANS. FEB 0 5 1998 rl �11111Igo,,�I ���•��N CAR01 osia'IlkN '•• a l SE ' 1 08 1 •. ..• PJB REV A q NJ"�,., R ��,�• EDIT/REVISE PLAN PER CUSTOMER COMMENTS/SPECIFICATIONS. BY:RGS:1-20-98 RRAYBON Crm -ENGINEERING ENVIROMENTAL NEW BERN, NORTH CAROLINA — (919) 637-7571 * COMFORT SUITES * NEW BERN, NORTH CAROLINA DOCK/PIER RECONSTRUCTION, GAZEBO ADDITON PLANS, DETAILS ..pR0 ad s,: Dot 1-20-98 Prot—tr 2095 cwdmsm RGQL—DO1 �..r 3 of 4 24'-0" 2x8x8'L FT DECK BOARDS SHOWN DECK PLAN 1/41 = 1'-0■ SECTION A—A 1/4' = 1' - 11 5/ 8'FASCIA/8'OH BLOCKING/Ni Q C] O II ml II I II 0" IF 4'-11" 5, 9., II II II II II II II II II II II it II II II II II " II II II II II II II II II II `� II II II II II II II II M II II II II II II II II II II CJI II II II II II II II II "' II it II II II II II II II II SII II II II II II II II II (D II SII �I II IIS II II II II II II it II II it NII II II II II II II a II II �- II II II II II II II � II II II II II-fl--I�-�4 "' II II 6';,II II II II II it II it II II II II II II II II I `n ,L16;,,1�1 16" 16" 16" 16" „ 16' „ 16" „ 16" „ 16" „ 16" ,.12'jl ., 7'-6 1/2" 7'-6" 7'-6 1/2- 2 2'— 7" 2"22'-7" 24'-0" BOARD FOUNDATION PLAN 1/41 = 1'-0" 2x10 PT GIRDER(s) J z a — REF.10'- PT PILINGS, TOP a CUT FLUSH TO BOTTOM OF DECK BOARDS 8'-0' PENET RATION OF RIVER BOTTOM SECTION B—B 1/4' = 1'-(" REF.10'N PT PILINGS, TOP 0 t9'-0'AFF DECK, ROOF BEARING " 0 I N FLOORROOF PLAN_ 1/4 9 = 17"? FRONT ELEVATION - 1/4' = 1'-0" TRAILING TO MATCH ■ 1NG POOL SIDE, EET SPEC'/CODE. b G ,CWx11\'Lx3/18'T BENT PLATE t WELDED TO POST BASE 2x4xG'L BLOCKING • � 2x6 PT DECK 1/2' GALVANIZED THRU—BOLT POST MOUNTING 02) —2x12 PT BAND 2)-2x12 PT BAND 2x10 PT TRIM/LAP w/ 5/8' 2)-2x12 PT BAND GALVANIZED THRU—BOLT(s) - 5/8' GALVANIZED THRU—BOLT(s) REFERENCE SHEET 2of4 FOR SITE SKETCH PLAN, AND SHEET 3of4 FOR DOCK/PIER PLANS. OPTIONAL _ HANDRAIL MOUNTING BOLTING DETAIL 1/20 CARO FEB 0 5 1998 _�. S , REV.A EDIT/REVISE PLAN PER CUSTOMER COMMENTS/SPECIFICATIONS. BY:RGS:1-20-98 108 ' Aoo / .. 0...... ���,• C ff"11 1is 2/. 13. 98 /t,� �QGt hoA lCa O :t cwaJ- /O cfac/ Tom' �-+a: leaI ,✓/ 7� C"((G�J; �r. �C�n- ��y f w�/o�--.l�Q i� u/at iZt 7`� Cc�aQ¢ �rArcc�okJ FEB -12-98 THU 10:32 120 WEST FIRE'COWER ROAD POST OFFICE BOX 8086 OTELEPHONE(91 1355-30348 FACSIMILE (919) 756-3669 UNIVE13SI.1TTY AORIPO RAATE ENTER POST OFFICE BOX 7069 WILMINGTON, N.C. 234116-70513 TELEPHONE (81 D) 392-5100 FACSIMILE (010) 392-2333 WARD AND SMITH, P.A. 'ATTORNEYS AT LAW 1001 COLLEGE COURT POST OFF E BO% 867 NEW BEEN. N- G. 28683-0867 TELEPHOMF FACSIMILE 199) 9)630-2 21 February 12, 1998 Via Fs��?m__nd U.S Mail Mr. Charles Jones North Carolina Division of Coastal Management Hestron plaza TI, 151•-B .Highway 24 Morehead City, North Carolina.28557 RE: Public Records Request Aggrieved Party: Elizabeth Civils Our File 96-0436(C) Dear Charles: P, 02 SUITE 2409 TWO MANNOVER SQUARE FAyET-TpVILLE STREET LL POST OFFICE BOX 2991 RALEIGH, N -C. 27602-21391 FACSIMIEE(98116)) 838-1 070 Through your kind assistance, we have reviewed and copied portions of the file concerning the original. construction of the dock and pier at the Comfort Suites in New Bern, North Carolina. As you know, the comfort Suites intends to replace those docks following their destruction by Hurricane Bertha. We understand that significant changes in the dock and pier necessitate the issuance of a new LAMA permit. Our client, Mrs_ Elizabeth Civils, who resides adjacent to the Comfort Suites, continues to have strong objections to the project and wishes to monitor closely the development of the dock replacement plans. ecords Act, N.C. Under provisions of the worth Carolina requestingRcopies of any new Gen. Stat. pec. 132-1, �-�•, royals, drawings, or amended permit applications, permit app construction plans or other correspondence received into or issued from your office regarding the dock replacement plans by Comfort Suites. This request applies both to documents presently in hand FEB -12-98 THU 10:32 P.03 WARD AND SMITH, P.A. Mr. Charles Jones February 12, 1998 Page 2 and those received in the future during the permitting/approval process. If your office finds it too burdensome to copy and mail such documents, we will be glad to send personnel to your office to review and copy the documents at our expense. We would ask that you notify us when such documents have been received into or produced by your office. You may call me or, in my absence, my paralegal, Doug Lindeman at the telephone number listed above. Please give me a call if you have any questions or reservations regarding this request. As always, we appreciate your assistance in addressing CAMA issues. Yours truly, �Z� Frank H. Sheffield, Jr. FHS: del NBMAIN\313550.1 cc: Mrs. Elizabeth Civils Airs. Eleanor Civils -CERTIFIED MAIL RERL'CE REQUESTED Dear This letter is to notify you as an adjacent riparian landowner of plans to construct Mr. /Mrs. on their property located at. Ne. The sketch on the reverse in side accurately depicts the proposed construction - Should you have no objections to this proposal, please check the statement below, sigh and -date the blanks below the statement, and return this letter to: as soon as possible. Should you have objections to this proposal, please send your written coments to the NC Division of Coastal. Management, P. 0. Box 769, Morehead City, NC 28557. written comments must be received within ten fXOj da s of receipt of this notice. Failure to respond in either method within ten (10 da s will be interpreted as no objection. sincerely, I have no objection to the project as presently - — and hereby waive. that richt of objection as proposed provided in General Statute 113-229. I have objections to the prosect as predentlY proposed -- and - have enclosed comments. Signature DATE: 15 NCP,C -/H .13D2 has been proposed to be amended as follows: .1102 J'hPF-Rdti>AL PROCEDURLS (b) he applicant must provide: (1) confirmation that a written statement has been obtained signed by the adjacent riparian property owners indicating that they have no objections'to the proposed work, or, (2) confirmation that the ad-acent riparian property owners have been notified by certified mail of the proposed work. Such notice should instruct adjacent property owners to provide any corti-rents on the proposed development in writing for consideration by permitting officials to the Division of Coastal ?fanagement within 10 days of receipt of the notice, and, indicate that no response will be3.Iiterpreted as no objection. DCM staff will review all comments and determine, __based on their relevance to the potential impacts of the proposed—project, - if the proposed project can be approved by a General Permit. If DCM staff finds that the com-nents are worthy _of more in-depth review, the ap2licant will be notified that he must_. submit, an application for a major development permit. History Note: Statutory Authority G.S. 113A -107(a); 113.-107(b); 113A -113(b); 113A-3.18.1; 113A-124; Eff. March 1, 1984; Anianded Eff. January 1, 1990; December 1, 1987. TOTAL F.02 d 120 WEST FIRE TOWER ROAD POST OFFICE BOX 8088 GREENVILLE, N C. 27835.8089 TELEPHONE (919) 355.3030 FACSIMILE (919) 756.3689 UNIVERSITY CORPORATE CENTER 127 RACINE DRIVE POST OFFICE BOX 7068 WILMINGTON, N.C. 28406.7068 TELEPHONE (910) 392-5100 FACSIMILE (910) 392.2333 WARD AND SMITH, P.A. ATTORNEYS AT LAW 1001 COLLEGE COURT POST OFFICE BOX 887 NEW BERN, N.C. 28583.0867 TELEPHONE (919) 833.1000 FACSIMILE 1919) 638-2121 February 27, 1998 N.C. Division of Coastal Management Post Office Box 769 Morehead City, North Carolina 28557 RE: Comments re Comfort Suites Docks and Gazebo Dear Sir: SUITE 2400 TWO HANNOVER SQUARE FAYETTEVILLE STREET MALL POST OFFICE BOX 2091 RALEIGH, N.C. 27802.2091 TELEPHONE (919) 838.1800 FACSIMILE (919) 836-1507 COPY With reference to CAMA General Permit No. 018594-C issued February 10, 1998 and the Exemption from CAMA permit issued the same date,. notice of which was received February 17, 1998 by Mrs. Harvey Civils and the undersigned, we wish to offer the following comments on behalf of Mrs. Cavils. Unnecessarily Endangers Adjoining Property. Our client is strongly opposed to the construction of these two structures on the grounds that they will unnecessarily endanger her property. The facilities are proposed to be constructed at a very vulnerable location on the Neuse River. This site is on the open part of the Neuse facing eastward near Union Point, and is directly in the path of any storm tracking up the Neuse River. As evidenced by the damage caused by Hurricane Bertha in 1996 (see enclosed photos taken immediately after the hurricane), this location on the river is especially vulnerable to store( damage. At that time, several boats that were docked at the Comfort Suites docks, together with large sections of the docks themselves, were blown into Mrs. Ci.vils yard and against her house, causing damage to her dwelling, 'bulkhead and yard. Similar damage surely would have occurred again during Hurricane Fran in September 1996, but for the WARD AND SMITH, P.A. N.C. Division of Coastal Management February 27, 1998 Page 2 fact that the docks had already been destroyed six weeks earlier during Hurricane Bertha. It is an absolute certainty that there will be other major storms and hurricanes impacting this vulnerable portion of the Neuse River. It is just. a matter of time. When such storms occur, Mrs. Civils property, because of its location relative to the Comfort Suites docks, will again be in the direct path of boats and docks from the Comfort Suites, crashing against the shore and into her house and yard. We do not contend that all docks on the Neuse River or elsewhere on the coast inherently endanger adjoining properties. Our contention _s that Division of Coastal Management staff must evaluate the location, size, proximity to adjoining properties, and directional relationship to nearby properties of each proposed dock in order to fulfill their regulatory responsibility. The staff should also consider the availability of intervening protective structures or land features, history of damage to adjoining properties, and other relevant factors in making a determination regarding "unnecessary endangerment.." This determination is best made in the context of an individual CAMA permit. In fact, the General Permit rules do not authorize issuance of a General Permit and require that an individual permit be obtained if the proposed structure "might" endanger adjoining properties. 15A N.C. Admin Code § 7H .2004(e). We understand that the CAMA staff historically has relied on the fact that a docking facility must obtain a building permit that demonstrates the facility is constructed in conformance with the state building code. While the integrity of the structure is important in minimizing the risk to adjoining properties, we do not- believe otbelieve it is the only factor that should be considered. We contend that no wooden gazebo or small. boat dock, no matter how well constructed, can withstand the forces of a major storm or hurricane in certain particularly vulnerable locations. This fact, together with the existence of residences or other occupied structures immediately downwind from the proposed docking facility, should be sufficient to deny an application for a permit under 15A N.G. Admin. Code § 7H .2000. It is also noteworthy that the permit issued to the Comfort Suites does not include any condition requiring that compliance with the state building code be demonstrated or even that a building permit be obtained. Thus, Division staff has no way of knowing whether WARD AND SMITH, P.A. N.C. Division of Coastal Management February 27, 1998 Page 3 the lone feature of its present "unnecessary endangerment" determination .is being fulfilled. Docking F'acil ity Especially Obj ec ti nable. Mrs. Civi.ls finds the reconstruction of the docking facility nearest her property to be especially objectionable. In addition to the threat posed to her property by this dock, its .Location and configuration assures that any boats using the dock must turn in front of her property and enter the slips from the north side. This will have the effect of increasing the noise, fumes and other undesirable impacts associated with boating activity immediately in front of one's property. In Mrs. Civils' case, these facilities will also significantly detract from her view of the river, being positioned directly in her line of site down the river. In short, she does not understand why she must bear the undesirable impacts of a.commercial dock constructed for the benefit of an adjoining commercial venture. At the very least, she believes these docks should be incorporated into the pier and gazebo structure or configured so that boats using the docks are not forced to navigate exclusively in front. of her home. She also requests that the representation made by the Comfort Suites that it will not rent slips or provide other commercial services at the docking facility or pier/gazebo structure be incorporated into the exemption and/or permit as an express condition. • - .�5 9� _733 - ._ .-0 F -M -50113M We also question the validity of the exemption granted with respect to the docking facility. This exemption was purportedly granted under an emergency policy for which no one in the Division could produce a .rule or citation. We ultimately were referred to the Governor's Office for information concerning any emergency declarations following Hurricane Bertha. Unless the Division can provide some legal support for its exemption policy, we question whether the exemption granted to the Comfort Suites to reconstruct the dock is legally valid. In addition to the possible absence of any supporting authority, it is unclear as to whether the Comfort Suites obtained .its exemption in a timely manner. We could find no record of an application for an exemption filed prior to the expiration of the exemption policy on July 31, 1997 (which we are informed by CAMA staff was extended until October 31, 1997). WARD AND SMITH, P.A, N.C. Division of Coastal Management February 27, 1998 Page 4 Adequacy of Notice to Adjoining Property Owners. Finally, we question the adequacy of the notice provided to adjoining property owners. Mrs. Civils is unable to determine whether she ever .received notice of the original permit application in 1991 or the modified permit in 1993. One thing is clear. It is clear that inadequate notice was provided to Mrs. Civils last month regarding the Comfort Suites general permit application for the pier and gazebo structure. On that occasion, a document that did not pertain to the CAMA permit was mailed to Mrs. Civils by certified mail, return receipt requested. According to Ted Tyndall, a green card showing that the item was signed for was provided by the Comfort Suites to the Division. No copy of the documents mailed to Mrs. Civils was provided to the Division. Only after we investigated this permit application further did it come to light that inadequate notice had been provided. The contractor involved quickly offered to apply for a new permit and re -notice Mrs. Civils by providing the correct documents, as required by law. That incident leads us not only to question CAMA's notice requirements generally, where no proof of what documents were mailed to adjoining property owners is required to be submitted to the Division, but also to wonder whether the same faulty notice procedure may have been employed in 1991 and 1993. CAMA file records only show a certified mail receipt in October 1991. Reportedly, a copy of the documents mailed to Mrs. Civils do not appear in the file. Thus, if some unrelated documents are mailed, as was the case in 3anuary 1998, how can adjoining property owners learn of their legal right to comment on an application within the specified period? Furthermore, how can the Division be sure its permit is valid if there is no proof that adjoining property owners were served with the correct documents? In summary, there is no proof that adequate notice was ever provided by the Comfort Suites with regard to the original structures and, thus, the exemption for the docking facility would be invalid if the original permit was invalid. We request that the Attorney General's Office review this situation and provide a legal analysis and opinion concerning the adequacy of each notice required in this instance by the rules, the validity of the applicant's certification of notice and the validity of the resulting permits issued to Comfort Suites. In conclusion, we ask that you give serious consideration to Mrs. Civils concerns regarding these facilities. They will unnecessarily endanger her property, as proven by the damage she WARD AND SMITH, P.A. N.C. Division of Coastal Management February 27, 1998 Page 5 sustained in 199E (without compensation by the Comfort Suites or their boat tenants), and will result in adverse noise and other undesirable impacts. She is particularly concerned about the location and proximity of the docking facility presently being reconstructed. Yours very truly, FHS: fs Frank H. Sheffield, Jr. NBMAIN\315118.1 Enclosures cc: Mrs. Harvey Civils Mrs. Eleanor Civils MISCELLANEOUS PERMIT CITY OF NEW BERN ,, BOX 1129, NEW BERN NC 28563 636--4003 FAX (919) 636-2146 MASTER PERMIT #: - PERMIT #: 98-00169 DATE ISSUED: 02/11/98 PROJECT #- 98--- EA REF #: __------___ PROJECT ADDRESS: LOCATION: 218 EAST FRONT STREET SUBDIVISION: OWNER NAME: REGINALD PO'TEAT ADDRESS: PO BOX 339 CI'T'Y : LALURINBURG LOT #: BLK #: PHONE: (910)-276-2611 STATE: NC ZIP: 28353 CONTRACTOR: FOLEY & FOLEY PHONE: ADDRESS: 1.810 OLD AIRPORT ROAD STATE: NC ZIP: CITY: NEW BERN ENGINEER: ARCHITECT: PROP. USE: RESIDENTIAL WORK: RECONFIGURE THE DOCKING FACILTY AND CONSTRUCT GAZEBO DESC: VALUATION: ` 30000.00 FEES DUE: 65.00 FEES PAID: 65.00 SPECIAL CONDITIONS: _ WORK CLASS: NEW SQ. FTG: FIRE ZONE: OCCP TYPE: R USE ZONE: CNST TYPE: VU APPLICATION ACCEPTED BY PLANS CHECKED BY APPROVED FOR ISSUANCE BV �. N 0 T I C E ** k THIS PERMIT BECOMES NULL AND VOID IF WORK OR CONSTRUCTION AUTHORIZED IS NOT COMMENCED WITHIN 6 MONTHS, OR IF CONSTRUCTION OR WORK IS SUSPENDED, OR ABANDONED FOR A PERIOD OF 6 MONTHS AT ANY TIME AFTER WORK IS STARTED I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT I HAVE READ AND EXAMINED THIS DOCUMENT AND KNOW THE SAME TO BE TRUE AND CORRECT. ALL PROVISIONS OF LAWS AND ORDINANCES GOVERNING THIS TYPE OF WORK WILL BE COMPLIED WITH WHETHER SPECIFIED HEREIN OR NOT. GRANTING OF A PERMIT DOES NOT PRESUME TO GIVE AUTHORITY TO VIOLATE OR CANCEL THE PROVISIONS OF ANY OTHER STATE OR LOCAL LAW REGULATING CONSTRUCTION OR THE PERFORMANCE OF CONSTRUCTION. ----------------- - - ---- ( SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTOR OF AUTHORIZED AGENT) DATE 02-11-98 (APPROVED BY) DATE CITY OF NEW BERN, N.C. DEPARTMENT OF INSPECTION �«►,�..►,- BUILDING INSPECTOR r rye_ rwrt �.yr,. BUILDER MUST REMOVEALL RUBBISH ^^ (40 9 PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED FOR A Y -- Permit To Build 7 . Permit 14615 Date Owner, a 1 l 8 ` Story Units Building on Q V 6 (, (SLA�— 5 i— Street To be used as YLCAti- .t✓ cl acv- G-�d General Contractor G Electrical Contractor Plumbing Contractor Mechanical Contractor Architect/Engineer Estimated Cost d 000 Fee Collected _ G,5- C)D Inspection Made Remarks Y �� 40 This building is to erected or altered in accordance with the Ordinances of the City of New Bern, N.C. and the General Building Laws of the State. HELP KEEP OUR CITY &EAN AND 7 I 1 x.. -� R"11 n1hiG No. 5 i PERM -11. Builder Must Remove All Rubbish_ Dated. -2' I 1 1998 THIS BUILDING IS TO BE ERECTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE OFDTHE STATE F THE CITY OF NEW BERN AND THE GENERAL BUILDING LAWS PLUMBING, WIRING AND INSULATION MUST BE INSPECTED BEFORE WALLS ARE ENCLOSED CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY REQUIRED CITY OF NEW BERN yn` F a ro v / eet�°�a p� lv _-s • _ t of p�a��lri � t en Yee co e zi4�l�'ee� Yee GR)Doov4a1' 9 Y Fee / r eelved .b��b� Fee / �osaeo l F 'a � Yee r 1 _ Yeti K Fee G� rY eek N' •. b1 ,� as of �ocatlon. - � �tYaa u o 11 FEB -27-98 FRI 16:10 WARD AND SMITH NEW BERN FAX N0. 9196362121 P,02 1?0 WEST FIRE TOWER ROAD POST OFFICE SQX Bag GHEENVILI.E, N.0 27031-1006 %j.CPHO>re (0181 885.5030 FAC51MILE. (910) 760-86e6 UNIVERSITY CORPORATP CEN'rr-Ft 127 RACINE DRIV4 POSTOFPIOF 9Qx 1000 vnLMI11rirgN. N.In, 35408-7050 �t ixek1c+na (910) anz-5100 FACSIMILE(910)392-2393 WARD ANU SMITH, P.A. ATTORNEYS AT LAW 1001COLLEGC•COURT POST OFFICH ®OX 047 NEW g�RN, N C 2e6s2•aea>• TELEPHONE (919►683. 1000 FACSIMILE j91 1636.2121 February 27, 7.998 SUIrE 2400 TWO HANNOVER 84U+ARE FAYE.TTEVILLE STREET MALL 0OS7OPPICE Box 2091 RAIale H, NC 27602.2001 TELEPHONE (sig) age -1800 FACSIMILE (ois) 038-1$117 FEB 2 7 1993 QEi .N&T, VIA ZEU'U 'mo i N.C. Division of C:oaszal Management Inst Office Box 769 Morehead City, Norte Carolina 28557 RC: Comments )-e C'amfori: Suites Docks and Gazebo Dear Sir: With ref-'erence to CAMA General Permit No_ ()18'194-C issued rebruary 10, 1998 and the l.Jxemption from CAMA permit issued the same date, notice of Witch was received February 17, 1998 by Mrs. Harvey Civils and the undersigned, we wish to offer ttLe following comments on behalf of Mrs. Civi,ls. U n e C e s,,: aXjj y,_fkXU our client is strongly opposed to the const=:uGtion of these two structures on the grounds that, they will unnecossar-ily endanger her property. Th'a facilities are proposed to be r•onst.ructed at a very vulnerable location on the Neuse River. This site is on the open pAxt of the Neuse Eacing eastward near Union Point, and is directly in the path of any storm tracking up the Neuse River. As evidenced by the damage caused by Htir_ ricane Bertha 11, 1996 ( see enclosed photos taken .urmerliately after the hurricane), this location on the river is especially vulnerable to storm dam -age. At that time, several boat::> that were docked at the Comfort Suites docks, together with large sections of the docks themselves, were blown into Mrs;. Cavils yard and against her house, taus ging damage to her dwelling, bulkhead and yard. Similar damage surely would have occurred agaiii dux tng Hurricane Fran in September 1996, but for the FEE -27-96 FRI 16:10 WARD AND SMITH NEW BERN FAX N0. 9196362121 WARD SAND SMITH, P.A,- 1� .C. Division of Coastal Management February 27, 1.998 Page 2 P. 03 FEB 2 7 1998 CO fact thdv the docks had already been destroy£.d si.x weeks earlier during .Hurricane Bertha, it is ars absolute certainty that there will be, other major storms and hurricanf!$ impacting this vulnerable portion of the Neuse River. It .is just. a matter of time. When such storms occur, Mrs. Civils property, Because of its location relative to the Comfort Soltes docks, will again be. in the direct path of boats and docks trom the Comfort Suites, crashing against the+ shore and into her house and yard. Ula do not contend that al]. docks on the Neuse liver or elsewhere on the coast inherently endanger adjoining properi.ies. Our contention is that Davi �ii.on of Coastal.. Management staff must evaluate the location, sire, proximity to adjoining properties, and direction,al. relationship =.o nearby properties of each proposed dock in order to fulfill their regulatory responsibility. ThE, staff should also consider the a.vaiLab.ility of intervening protective structures or land features, hiutory of damage to adjoining properties, and other relevant. factors in making a determination regarding "unnecessary endangerment_" This determination is beat made in the context of -an individual CPKA permit. In fact, the Genaral Permit rules do not; authorize issuance of a General Permit and require that an individual permit: be obtained Lf the proposed structure "might" endanger adjotninq properties. 15A N.C. Admit; Code § 7H .2004(e)- We 2009(e)_ We understand that the CAMA staff historicai.,.y has relied on the fact that a docking ,facility must obtain a building permit that demonstrates the facility is constructed in conformance with the state building code. While the integrity of the structure is ilnpor_ tan t in minir:i.i z ing the x i ,,3 k to adjoining proper r ties, we do not believe it is the QTL1y factor that should be considered. We ,:;ontend that no wooden gazebo or small boat dock, no matter how well, constructed, can wit.hst<ind the forces r)f a major storm or hurricane in c.e.rtain particularly vulnerable locations. This fact, together with the existence of residences or other occup.led :icructuxes immediately downwind from the proposed docking facility, ihould be sufficient Lo deny an application for a permit under 15A N.C. Admin. Code § 711 .2090. [;_ is also ncd ewot t-hy that the permit issued to the Comfort. Suites does not include any coridit.ion requiring that compliance with the :state building code be demon-strated or even that a building permit be obtained. Thus, Division staff has no wav of knowing whether FEB -27-9B FRI 16:11 WARD AND SMITH NEW BERN FAX N0. 9196362121 P,04 WARD AND SMITH, P.A. N.C. Division of Coastal Management Fp:bruary 27, 1999 Page 3 the lone featuie of its present determination is being fulfilled. M c s. Civ'i 1,-; f -incts tt nearest her property t to the threat posed to configu.i�atior) assures front of hex prouert} This will. have thc, eff undesirable impacts as: front of one's properl will also sigrd,fl.crantl Positioned di.-ectly in she does not understan pit a commercial clock i FEB 2 7 1998 "unnecessary endangerment" ., xeconstruction of ti-te docking :Facility ,a bw especially objectionable. In addition her property by this cloc)c, Its location and that any boats using the dock must turn in and enter the slips from the north side. .c,t of increasing the noise, fumes and other oci,ated with boating activity immediately in y. In Mrs. Civils' cane, these facilities y detract from her view of the river, being her line of site down the river. In short, i why she must bear the undesirable impacts ,onstructed for the benr:fit of an adjoining commercial venture. At the very least, she: believes these docks should be incorporated into the pier and ;azcbo structure or configured so than boats using the docks are not forced to navigate (:,cclusively iii front of her- home. :7iln also req-apsts that the representation shade by the Comfort >ultes that it will not rent slips or provide other commercial aki-rvices at the docking Eaci,li.ty or pier/t.iazebo structure be i.nc:orporated into the exemption, and/or pe-cmit as an express condition. _V Rtign, W(3 also question the validity of the exemption granted with respect to the docking facility. This exemption was purportedly granted ,ruder arc emergency policy for which no one irc the Division could produce a rule oz citation. We ultimately were referred to the Governor's Office for information concerning any emergency declarations Following Hurricane Bertha. Un.1-ass the Division can provide some legal support for its exemption policy, we question whether the exemption granted to the Comfort Suites to reconstruct the dock is legally valid. ]n addition to tho possible absence of auy supporting authority, it is unclear as to whether the Comfort :3u.ttes obtained its exemption in a timely manner. We could find no record of an application for an exemption filed prior to the nxpixation of the exemption policy on July 31: 1991 (which we are informed by CAMA staff was extended until oct,iber 31, 199-Y). FEB -27-98 FRI 16,12 WARD AND SMITH NEW BERN FAX NO. 9196362121 WARD AND SMITH, P.A. Nd C. Divi$ioD of Coastal. Management Tebruary 27, 1996 ?age 4 P. 05 FEB 2 7 1998 14'.inally, we question the adequacy of tho notice provided to adjoining p-roperty owners-, Mrs. Civils is unable to determine whether she ever received notice of the original permit application Ln 1991 or the mo,li f i.ed permit in 1.993. One thing is clear. It is r'.fear that inadecptate notice was provided to Mts. civils last month .(=gaxding the Comfort Suites general permit application for the J)Ler and gaze'.no st.rtict.ure. On that occasion, a document that did not pertain to the (3.W permit was mailed to Mrs. Civils by c.4-artified mail, return receipt requested. According to Ted Tyndall, a green card showing that the item was signed for was provided by the Comfort Suites to the Divi.si.:)n. No copy of the docame5nts mailed to Mrs. Civils was provided tt, the Division. Only a Eter we in.ve.3tigrated this permit application further did it come Lo light that inadequate notice had been provided. The contractor involved quicrkiy offea-ed to apply for a new permit and re --notice Mrs. Civics by providing the correct documents, as required by law. That inciden,- lc!ads us not only to question CAMA' s notice requirements generally, where no proof of what documents were rnalled to adjoining property owners .is required to be submitted to t_he. Division, but x150 t0 wonder whether the same faulty notice pcocedu.re may have been employed in 1991 a,id 1993. LAMA file i:facords only show a certiCied mail receipt-' in October 1991. Reportedly, a copy of the documents mailed tt-1 Pers. Civils do not appear in the file. Thus, if some unrelated documents are mailed, as was the care .in January 1998, how can adjoining property owners Learn of their legal right to comment on an application within the specified per. i.od? Furthermore, how can the Division be sure its permit is valid it: there is no proof that adjoining property owners were served with the correct documents? In summary, there is no iaroof that adequate notice was ever provided by the comfort Suites With regard tc.� the oricli.naL structures and, tht,es, the exemption fox !_tie docking facility would be invalid if the original permit was uval.id. We request that the Attorney Generals Office review this :a.i.tuation and provide a legal analysis and opi.n.i.on concerning the adequacy of_ each notice required in this instae:ce by the rules, the validity of the applicant's cerLificatLon of notice and the staLidity of the resulting permits issued to C,)mfort Suites. rte eanclus,ion f we risk that. YOU give serious c rnsideration to Mrs. k:xvi]_s corncerns rec1ard.ing these facilities. They will lazznecessarily cndanrler• her property, as provFn by the damage she FEB -27-98 FRI 1612 WARD AND SMITH NEW BERN FAX N0. 9196362121 P.06 WARD AND SMITH, P.A. N.C. Division of 'Coastal, Management February 27, 1998 Page 5 :3ustained in 1996 (without compensation by the Comfort Suites or Cheir boat tenants), and will result in adverse noise and other jade;>irable impact -s. She is particularly concerned about the .1ocwat ion and proximity of the docking facility presently being recoristxucted. Yours vary t;rui y, Frank H. Shef£.i,31d, Jr. F }{S : is M11M Ilq\3].5119.1 s�nclosures �c.: Mrs_ Harvey Civils Mrs. Eleanox Ci.vil.s FEB 2 7 1998 FEB 2 7 1998 FEB -27-98 FRf 16:t6 WARD AND SMITH NEW BERN FAX NO. 9196362121 FEB 2 7 jqq8 I zo """"""MMMMMM�1u���b" �'�� � ' X5.1" ` .` � .,r.._ _ !1 c.. .• � FEB 2 7 1998 .j it . ikx.Ar,.- 77- 4-4-w.. ?- 4k!c MAI -7 ��� rte": _n,� _ •' a,. T����'YG�3a �s 'veaA,... _ .'"•.. ?� r __ ■ ` � - _ a�iFl � , t - � sT' "� �s E t, •mer-_..ZL-_=_- IF !�- - ' .^,� .� _ .,+/:•�•�y��r�. ~-y`• `, �, - i� _ .' �!•�.�. .. � ♦ • .may.. - .. .' - _ — - _•, -ice - -*' ,r•� - '� ' -i `. ': _•• y_ �. `+���R`•. _,`�•�•„�s��1.�4 �. 'ls, !'�' .i �•�"_^-�.:-G _t .:b -_56 tit. � f t '•tc - .`ter- '�z _ . •�` 4Lc .. ¢.Yie_ _~ ,c k'z�'_: i'• - }- -ar`..-_.:�i..:�7�sti4iaL-�. :3:::-._. G -s .,y„_~ - `tre�' �Jf�'�`:. rs• ..k}+. _ Ac- t rte": _n,� _ •' a,. T����'YG�3a �s 'veaA,... _ .'"•.. ?� r __ ■ ` � - _ a�iFl � , t - � sT' "� �s E t, •mer-_..ZL-_=_- IF !�- - ' .^,� .� _ .,+/:•�•�y��r�. ~-y`• `, �, - i� _ .' �!•�.�. .. � ♦ • .may.. - .. .' - _ — - _•, -ice - -*' ,r•� - '� ' -i `. ': _•• y_ �. `+���R`•. _,`�•�•„�s��1.�4 �. 'ls, !'�' .i �•�"_^-�.:-G _t .:b -_56 tit. � f t '•tc - .`ter- '�z _ . •�` 4Lc .. ¢.Yie_ _~ ,c k'z�'_: i'• - }- -ar`..-_.:�i..:�7�sti4iaL-�. :3:::-._. G -s .,y„_~ - `tre�' �Jf�'�`:. rs• ..k}+. _ ,,�,t i iii ► �� , FEB 2 7 1998