Land Use Plan Update-1992

BRUNSWICK COUNTY LAND USE PLAN
1992 UPDATE
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Kelly Holden, Chairman
Jerry W. Jones, Vice -Chairman
L. Eugene Pinkerton
Frankie B. Rabon
Marvin Donald Shaw Jr.
PLANNING BOARD
John L. Barbee, Chairman
Troy L. Price, Vice Chairman
Thomas F . Gray
John W. Thompson
Marion R. Warren
Jerry W. Jones, Ex-Officio
BRUNSWICK COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT
John Harvey, AICP, Planning Director
Don Eggert, AICP, Planner II
GLENN HARBECK ASSOCIATES
Planning and Public Involvement
Wilmington, NC
This plan was prepared in accordance with T15A: 076.100 Land Use Planning Guidelines under the
Coastal Area Management Act of 1974, as amended.

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lease do not remove!!!!!
1992 Update
October 29, 1992 Draft

Land Classification Map
Municipal (Not in Planning Area)
Developed
IIV
Urban Transition
Ilk
Y
Limited Transition
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� I `Y
t1 Iw - O 1 0 �-� J•� 1M Rural Industrial
20
• 11•I V
�'�� 1• V - Y Inl 1 t n�• ���� �y
(Rural
100
Chiµ!
® Community
Conservation
Note: Due to map scale, this land classification map is necessarily generalized in
nature, and is intended for general planning purposes only. Within some classifica-
tions, for example, there may be pockets of land which should be considered Con-
servation. Conversely, within the Conservation class there may be pockets of high
and dry, non -sensitive land. In these situations, more detailed, site specific informa-
tion will take precedence over the more generalized map, and the appropriate poli-
cies of the land use plan document will apply.
Brunswick County
LAND USE PLAN
1992 Update
Glenn Harbeck Associates
Planning and Public Involvement
SCALE IN MILES
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1
1. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
8
1.1 Establishment of Information Base
8
1.2 Present Conditions
9
1.2.1 Population and Economy
9
1.2.2 Existing Land Use Analysis
28
1.2.3 Current Plans, Policies and Regulations
34
1.3 Constraints, Land Suitability
48
1.3.1 Physical Limitations for Development
48
1.3.2 Fragile Areas
52
1.3.3 Areas With Resource Potential
58
1.4 Constraints, Carrying Capacity Analysis
62
1.4.1 Potable Water System
62
1.4.2 Sewer and Storm Drainage
65
1.4.3 Transportation
66
1.4.4 Law Enforcement
69
1.4.5 Fire and Rescue
69
1.4.6 Schools
70
1.4.7 Library System
75
1.4.8 Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Access
76
1.4.9 Solid Waste Management
77
1.5 Anticipated Demand
78
1.5.1 Permanent and Seasonal Populations
78
1.5.2 Future Land Use Needs
80
1.5.3 Community Facilities Demands
83
2. POLICIES FOR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
84
Introduction to the Policies
84
2.1 Resource Protection Policies
86
2.1.1 Constraints To Development
86
2.1.2 Areas of Environmental Concern
86
2.1.3 Other Hazardous or Fragile Land Areas
89
2.1.4 Hurricane and Flood Evacuation
94
2.1.5 Protection of Potable Water Supply
94
2.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants
95
2.1.7 Stormwater Runoff
96
2.1.8 Marina and Floating Home Development
97
2.1.9 Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
97
2.1.10 Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands
98
2.1.11 Development Near Sea Level
99
2.1.12 Upland Excavation for Marina Basins
100
2.1.13 Marsh Damage from Bulkhead Installation
100
2.2. Resource Production And Management Policies
102
2.2.1 Productive Agricultural Lands
102
2.2.2 Commercial Forest Lands
102
2.2.3 Mineral Production Areas
102
2.2.4 Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
103
2.2.5 Off Road Vehicles
104
2.2.6 Development Impacts
104
2.2.7 Peat or Phosphate Mining Impacts
104
2.3 Economic And Community Development Policies
105
2.3.1 Types and Locations of Industries Desired
105
2.3.2 Provision of Services to Development
106
2.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired
107
2.3.4 Redevelopment, including Relocation of
Threatened Structures
107
2.3.5 Commitment to State and Federal Programs
108
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2.3.6 Channel Maintenance and Beach
Renourishment
2.3.7 Energy Facilities
2.3.8 Tourism
2.3.9 Coastal and Estuarine Beach Water Access
2.3.10 Residential Development
2.3.11 Commercial Development
2.3.12 Beautification
2.3.13 Airports
2.3.14 Education
2.3.15 Retirees
2.3.16 Waste Management
2.3.17 Growth and Development Controls
2.4 Public Participation Policies
2.5 Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery
and Evacuation Plan
2.5.1 Storm Hazard Mitigation
2.5.2 Post Disaster Reconstruction
3. LAND CLASSIFICATION
3.1 Purpose of Land Classification and Relationship
to Policies
3.2 Overview of Land Classification System
3.3 Descriptions of Individual Land Classes
3.3.1 Developed
3.3.2 Urban Transition
3.3.3 Limited Transition
3.3.4 Community
3.3.5 Rural
3.3.6 Rural -Industrial
3.3.7 Rural with Services.
3.3.8 Conservation
4. INTER -GOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND
MUNICIPAL LAND USE PLANS
4.1 Inter -governmental Coordination
4.2 Municipal Land Use Plans
5. SUMMARY OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
6. ACTION AGENDA FOR THE BRUNSWICK COUNTY
LAND USE PLAN
APPENDICES
109
109
110
111
113
113
114
114
115
116
117
118
120
122
124
127
135
135
135
136
136
137
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After Page 176
Brunswick County Planning Board Glenn Harbeck Associates

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Executive Summary
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I Executive Summary
R Need For
Brunswick County's growth rate continues to outpace most areas of
Planning
the country. The attractiveness of the county's natural features,
combined with higher levels of disposable income in the nation as a
whole, greater emphasis on the importance of leisure time, and
growing elderly population, has created a tremendous boom in
growth and development in the county.
As the county becomes more generally developed, however, new
problems must be faced, including: land use conflicts, traffic
congestion, ever-growing public expenditures for the services and
facilities required by this new growth; and possible degradation of
the very features that have been so instrumental in attracting large
numbers of people to Brunswick County.
The intent of the Land Use Plan is to anticipate and plan for this
growth. Such planning should work to protect and enhance the
quality of life of area residents and should also wisely manage the
natural resources with which the county has been blessed. At the
same time, advanced planning and foresight can help minimize
increases in the local tax burden, through sound public and private
investment decisions. The North Carolina General Assembly
recognized these issues when it passed the Coastal Area
Management Act of 1974, which requires local governments in the
coastal area to develop land use plans and update them every five
years. The first Brunswick County Land Use Plan was adopted in
1976, with updates following in 1981 and 1987. This update refines
the 1987 plan to address current conditions, issues and trends in the
county.
Functions of the The Land Use Plan performs several important functions for local
Plan governing bodies and the general public; these functions are briefly
described below:
- Source of Information - The plan's technical studies provide
information on a number of topics, including the local economy,
population, environmental features, land use trends and community
facility needs.
- Guidance for Government Decisions - Once the governing body
adopts the plan, it then has a foundation for guiding future decisions
on budgets and ordinances, including zoning and subdivision
regulations.
• Preview of Government Action - Decisions of the public in general,
and developers in particular, are easier to make when the probable
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Brunswick County Planning Board page 1 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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outcome of governmental decisions is understood; the adoption of a
land use plan increases the predictability of government actions.
• Public Participation in Managing Growth - Public meetings and
hearings held during the plan's preparation help to insure that the
plan reflects, to the extent possible, the specific nature of the current
growth issues facing the county.
Ingredients of Several major steps were involved in preparing the Brunswick
the Plan County Land Use Plan. First, a number of technical studies were
made of past and present conditions in the county. From these initial
studies, forecasts for future growth and development of the area were
summarized. Finally, policies and a land classification map were
devised to address present and future needs.
Technical Studies
A number of basic studies are required so that a solid information
base can be established for sound policy decisions. These basic
studies include the following subjects:
• Population and Economy
• Impact of Seasonal Population
• Existing Land Use Analysis
• Current Plans, Policies and Regulations
• Evaluation of Previous Land Use Plan Effectiveness
• Physical Limitations for Development
• Fragile Areas
• Areas with Resource Potential
• Water Supply
• Sewage Treatment and Storm Water Runoff
• Transportation Facilities
• Police
• Fire and Rescue
• Schools
• Parks and Recreation
• Solid Waste
• Population and Economic Projections
• Future Land Use Needs
• Community Facility Demands
Collectively, these studies summarize past and present conditions,
while providing the basis for estimating future conditions. The results
of these studies are contained in full in Section 1 of the Brunswick
County Land Use Plan. In addition, detailed mapping of existing land
use is available for inspection at the offices of the Brunswick County
Planning Department.
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Highlights of the Technical Studies
Population
During much of the 1950's, the population of Brunswick County was
less than 20,000 and growth was negligible. During the 60's, the
county's population increased by about 20% to a little over 24,000.
During the 1970' and 80's, however, the population exploded by
48% and 43% respectively. The 1990 Census counted over
50,000— up from 36,000 just a decade earlier. The year round
county population is expected to reach approximately 66,000
persons by the year 2000, and 80,000 by 2010.
Economy
The economic analysis included the following trends for Brunswick
County:
• A continued decline in agriculturally -based employment.
• A continued decline in seafood and fisheries -based employment.
• A relative decline in manufacturing employment as a percentage of
total employment, compared to service and trade employment.
• A continued increase in the volume of travel and tourism related
expenditures as a percentage of the total local economy.
• A continued increase in the so-called "mailbox" economy of the
county's rapidly growing retirement population; i.e., transfer
payments.
Land Use
The analysis of existing land use revealed several significant land
use trends and problems:
• Scattered, unattractive development along beach roads creating a
poor image.
• Sprawling subdivision activity which is difficult to serve.
• Initiatives underway to create small area sewage treatment
systems.
• Continued rapid growth along the county's water -oriented edges.
Water Supply
The main source of water for the County system was changed in the
early 1980s from groundwater to the Cape Fear River. Since the
system was established, over 100 subdivisions have installed and
dedicated water distribution systems to the County. Some 10,000+
lots in the county are currently served by the water system. In
September of 1990, work was completed on a new Water
Distribution System Master Plan which analyzed the current
distribution system, projected future water consumption, and
recommended improvements to the system for action by 1991, 1995
and 2010. This plan is being carried out.
Glenn Harbeck Associates
Brunswick County Planning Board page 3
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Waste Water Disposal
The suitability of area soils for septic tanks continues to be one of the
primary constraints on the future growth and development of the
county. Despite the apparent need for centralized sewage treatment,
the county's sparse development patterns make the provision of a
single, central sewage treatment system unworkable. Areas where
there are concentrations of small lots or higher density development
(such as near the beach communities) offer some possibilities,
however. As a result, there are several local area initiatives
underway which would seek to address this need.
Transportation Facilities
The four-laning of US 17 through the county is doing much to
alleviate congestion on this major traffic artery. In addition, the
completion of a by-pass around Shallotte and another by-pass
around Bolivia will further enhance the flow of traffic through the
county. Secondary roads and bridges leading to several of the
county's ocean beaches continue to present a problem on peak
summer weekends.
Policies For The technical reports described above were geared to gathering and
Growth and summarizing information related to the growth of the planning area.
Development Building upon this information, a number of policies were prepared
by the County Planning Board for consideration by the Brunswick
County Board of Commissioners.
The policies presented in this document are the result of weighing
factual information with public input about growth issues; as officially
adopted policies of the County, they will serve as the basis for future
decisions on capital improvements, ordinances, zoning decisions,
subdivision approvals, and other similar matters.
Land Classification Map
Some of the policies make reference to specially mapped areas; the
Land Classification Map contained in the Land Use Plan illustrates
these areas. The seven land classification categories (Developed,
Urban Transition, Limited Transition, Community, Rural, Rural -
Industrial, and Conservation) were adapted from the Coastal Area
Management Act's land use planning guidelines. By assigning the
land classes to specific parts of the county, the map shows visually
where and at what density growth should occur, and where
significant natural resources are to be carefully managed. In addition,
incorporated communities not included in the County's land
classification system are simply shown as Municipal on the land
classification map. The various mapped areas may be summarized
as follows:
Brunswick County Planning Board page 4 Glenn Harbeck Associates

iMunicipal
The towns of Belville, Bolivia, Boiling Spring Lakes, Calabash,
Caswell Beach, Holden Beach, Leland, Long Beach, Navassa, Oak
Island, Ocean Isle Beach, Shallotte, Southport, Sunset Beach, and
Yaupon Beach are covered by plans prepared independently of the
County Plan. For the purpose of the County plan, all are shown on
the land classification map as Municipal. The reader is referred to
each Town's plan for specifics on each community's land
classification system.
Developed
The purpose of the Developed class is to provide for continued
intensive development and redevelopment of existing cities, towns
and their urban environs. The three communities of Sandy Creek,
Varnamtown and Bald Head Island, while not part of the
unincorporated area of Brunswick County, are included under the
general purview of the County Plan until such time as they may
prepare their own plan. Of the three, Bald Head Island and
Varnamtown have been designated in the Developed class. (Sandy
Creek is addressed under the Community Classification).
Urban Transition
The purpose of the Urban Transition class is to provide for future
urban development on lands that are most suitable and that will be
scheduled for the provision of a full range of public utilities and
services within the ensuing 10 years. Included in the Urban
Transition class are areas generally within the vicinity of an existing
municipality and/or areas being considered for the provision of some
form of centralized sewer facility.
Limited Transition
The purpose of the Limited Transition class is to provide for future
development on lands that are suitable and that will be scheduled for
the provision of a limited range of public utilities and services within
the ensuing 10 years. Included in the Limited Transition class are
areas generally not likely to see the provision of centralized sewer
facilities for the foreseeable future. They are, however, either
currently being served or planned to be served by the County water
distribution system.
Community
The purpose of the Community class is to provide for clustered land
development to help meet housing, shopping, employment, and
public service needs within the rural areas of the county. This class
includes, for example, the communities of Maco, Mill Creek,
Ash/Waccamaw, Bell Swamp/Winnabow, Grissettown, Sandy Creek,
Supply, and Piney Grove.
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Rural
The purpose of the Rural class is to provide for agriculture, forest
management, mineral extraction, and other low intensity uses.
Residences may be located within Rural areas where urban services
are not required and where natural resources will not be
permanently impaired. This land class occurs extensively on the
north and west sides of US 17.
Rural -Industrial
This is a special subclass of the more general Rural classification. It
is designed to recognize areas currently developed for large scale
industrial type uses, and lands that have been identified as
particularly appropriate for future industrial development. Generally,
industries locating to these areas might be considered inappropriate
for location in a more densely developed, mixed use urban setting.
The rural -industrial land classification has been applied, for the most
part, to several relatively large land areas with convenient access to
the shipping channels of the Cape Fear River. Other land areas are
largely adjacent to these existing industrial operations.
Conservation
The purpose of the Conservation class is to provide for effective,
long-term management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas.
This management may be needed because of its natural, cultural,
recreational, productive or scenic values. By definition, this class
includes but is not limited to all Areas of Environmental Concern
(AECs), all 404 wetlands, and all critical habitat areas.
Major Changes Transition Area Redrawn and Divided Into Two New
From the 1987 to Categories
the 1992
Updated Plan The boundaries of Transition areas identified on the Land
Classification Map have been redrawn to reflect the most up to date
information on the probability of providing water and sewer services
to development in the next 10 years.
Two new sub -categories of the general Transition class have been
created as described above: Limited Transition and Urban
Transition.
New Industrial Land Class Established
The new rural -industrial land class was created to allow for special
recognition of areas in the unincorporated county either currently in
use for industrial purposes or particularly well suited for such use.
(See description above)
Brunswick County Planning Board page 6 Glenn Harbeck Associates

New, freestanding section on implementation actions
created.
A new section of the land use plan has been created which brings
together in one place all suggested implementation actions designed
to carry out the policies. Rather than scattering these actions
throughout the text of the Policies, this section provides an
appropriate means of clearly organizing all potential actions for
convenient review and use. A further benefit of this approach is that
the action section may be updated on a regular basis (e.g. annually
in conjunction with the County's budget process) without changing
the policy portion of the plan. If the document is maintained in a
three ring binder for frequent users of the plan, the previous year's
action agenda may be simply removed and a new section inserted.
This approach should make monitoring of the plan's implementation
easier as well.
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1 e Data Collection
and Analysis
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IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
1 1. Data Collection and Analysis
1.1 Establishment of Information Base
Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) guidelines for preparing land use plans in the
coastal area of North Carolina require that an analysis of existing conditions and future
trends be performed prior to policy development. The intent of this requirement is to
insure that the policies as developed respond as closely as possible to current
problems and issues facing the county. Key components of the analysis may be
described in four categories:
1) present conditions, including population, economy, existing land use, and current
plans and regulations;
2) land suitability constraints, including physical limitations for development, fragile
areas, and areas with resource potential;
3) community facility and service constraints, including water, sewer, transportation,
police, fire, schools, parks and recreation, and solid waste; and
4) anticipated demand, including population and economic projections, future land
use needs, and community facility demands.
iCollectively, these studies establish the information base necessary to make policy
choices about future land use and development in the county. The following Sections
1.2 through 1.5 set forth the findings of this information base in greater detail.
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
1.2 Present Conditions
1.2.1 POPULATION AND ECONOMY
1.2.1(a) Population
From the time of the first US Census in 1790 until the 1960 Census, Brunswick County
grew at a relatively slow rate. In fact, during this 170 year period, the population grew
by a total of only about 17,000 people (3,000 to 20,000). Beginning in the 1960's,
however, the county began a period of unprecedented growth. During the 1960's, for
example, the County's growth rate was nearly twice that of the State of North Carolina.
In the 1970's, the County grew at a rate three times faster than that of the State. And,
during the 1980's, Brunswick County grew at more than triple the State's growth rate.
According to statistics compiled by the Office of State Budget and Management,
Brunswick County continues to be the second fastest growing county of all 100
counties in the State of North Carolina.
POPULATION GROWTH
Brunswick County
State of North Carolina
Year
Population
% Increase
Population
% Increase
per decade
per decade
1930
15,815
—
—
—
1940
17,125
13.4
—
—
1950
19,238
12.3
4,052,795
—
1960
20,278
5.6
4,556,155
12.4
1970
24,223
19.5
5,084,411
11.6
1980
35,777
47.7
5,881,766
15.7
1990
50,985
42.5
6,628,637
12.7
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Population levels change in three different ways: natural increase (births minus
deaths), in -migration (people moving into the area), and out -migration (people moving
out of the area). Before 1960, nearly all the county's population increase could be
attributed to natural increase. In fact, the county experienced net out -migrations during
the 30's, 40's and 50's.
From sometime in the 1960's to the present, the county has witnessed steady
increases in the number of newcomers. During the 1960's, newcomers accounted for
only about one third of the total population increase of the county. By the decade of
the 80's, newcomers represented almost 85% of the total population increase.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 9 Glenn Harbeck Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
POPULATION GROWTH DYNAMICS
Decade +or- Natural Net
Increase migration
1930-40 +1,310 2,709 -1,399
1940-50 +2,113 3,509 -1,396
1950-60 +1,040 3,752 -2,712
1960-70 +3,945 2,524 +1,421
1970-80 +11,554 2,897 +8,657
1980-90 +15,208 2,499 +12,709
Source: US Census and NC Dept. of Human Resources, Division of Vital Statistics
Population Distribution
As the followingtable indicates not all arts of Brunswick Count 'have grown at an
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equal rate. During the 1980's, the Shallotte and Lockwood Folly townships in the
south and central portions of the county, respectively, grew at rates which exceeded
the county average. This continues a trend established during the 1960's and 70's-
that of large numbers of people being drawn -by the ocean and intracoastal-oriented
areas of the county south and east of U.S. 17.
POPULATION GROWTH BY TOWNSHIP
1980-1990
INCREASE
Township 1980 1990 Number Percent
Lockwood Folly 7,361 10,705 3,344 45%
Northwest 6,136 7,454 1,318 21
Shallotte 6,542 11,818 5,276 81
Smithville 6,838 9,488 2,650 39
Town Creek 6,878 9,269 2,362 35
Waccamaw 2,022 2,260 238 12
TOTAL 35,777 50,985 15,208 43
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990
The population growth statistics for the county's census tracts provide a slightly
different perspective on the distribution of the county's population growth. The
county's three census tracts which front on the ocean and intracoastal waterway, tracts
203, 204, and 205, grew at rates substantially higher than the non -water oriented
tracts of the county.
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IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
POPULATION GROWTH BY COMPARABLE CENSUS TRACT
1980-1990
INCREASE
Tract 1980 1990 Number Percent
201 7,297 8,879 1,582
22
202 4,510 5,926 1,416
31
203 6,895 9,623 2,728
40
204 4,746 7,263 2,490
52
205 7,061 12,404 5,343
76
206 5,261 6,917 1,656
31
TOTAL 35,777 50,985 15,208
43
Source: US Censuses , 1980 and 1990
A review of population changes at the municipal level provides yet another
perspective on where the county's population growth is headed. The beach
communities, for the most part, continued on a consistent, fast paced growth trend. Of
the non -oceanfront communities, the town of Calabash grew at an astounding
845%
during the 1980's. Much of this growth can be attributed, however, to the
reorganization of that town's government and area of jurisdiction during the
1980's. At
the same time, Shallotte grew at a very respectable 42% during the decade, a
reflection of the overall attractiveness of this part of the county to new development.
MUNICIPAL POPULATION GROWTH
1980-1990
CHANGE
Municipality 1980 1990 Number Percent
Bald Head Island* N/A 78 N/A
N/A
Belville 102 46 (56)
(55)
Boiling Springs Lakes 998 1,672 674
68
Bolivia 252 226 (26)
(10)
Calabash** 128 1,189 1,061
829
Caswell Beach 110 155 45
41
Holden Beach 232 642 410
177
Leland* N/A 1,785 N/A
N/A
Long Beach 1,844 3,816 1,972
107
Navassa 439 433 (6)
Ocean Isle Beach 143 534 391
(1)
273
Sandy Creek* N/A 271 N/A
N/A
Shallotte 680 976 296
44
Southport 2,824 2,359 (465)
(16)
'
Sunset Beach 304 321 17
6
Varnamtown* N/A 434 N/A
N/A
Yaupon Beach 569 764 195
34
TOTALS 8,625 15,701 7,076
82
*Incorporated between 1980 and 1990.
**During this period, the incorporated area of Calabash was significantly enlarged by a major
restructuring
of the town's municipal government including the town limits.
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990
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Brunswick County
Census Tracts
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IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
The municipal growth rates noted above are also reflected in the overall percentages
of total county population in incorporated versus unincorporated areas. In 1980, over
75% of the total county population was living in the unincorporated parts of the county.
By 1990, this ratio dropped to about 70%. It remains to be seen how the introduction
of centralized sewage treatment systems and the continued expansion of the County's
water distribution system may effect this overall growth distribution pattern.
POPULATION IN INCORPORATED VERSUS UNINCORPORATED AREAS
1980-1990
Numbers % of County
Population
1980 1990 1980 1990
Incorporated Areas 8,615 15,644 24% 30%
Unincorporated Areas 27,109 35,341 76 70
TOTAL COUNTY 35,777 50,985 100 100
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990
Census Tracts and Block Groups
Brunswick County and the US Census Bureau together developed splits of certain fast
growing 1980 Census Tracts for the purposes of conducting the 1990 Census. In
addition, a series of Block Groups were developed within each Census Tract. A
significant amount of information is being made available from the 1990 Census at this
block group level.
Further, the Census Bureau then divided each Block Group into numerous blocks.
Again, significant information has been made available at the block level.
This detailed information has been used in projecting future needs of the County water
system and in revision of the electoral districts for the County Commission and the
Board of the Elections, to achieve proportionate representation.
Population and Housing
Numbers of housing units in Brunswick County have increased at a faster rate than the
overall population growth. This is to be expected, given the continued national
declines in average household size during the 1980's and the relatively large
numbers of seasonal housing units built in the county. (For more information on
seasonal units, see Section 1.2.1 (c) Impact of Seasonal Population.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 12 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
HOUSING GROWTH BY TOWNSHIP
1980-1990
HOUSING UNITS
INCREASE
Township
1980
1990
Number
Percent
Lockwood Folly
5,636
10,084
4,448
79%
Northwest
2,451
2,917
466
19
Shallotte
4,701
10,826
6,125
130
Smithville
5,450
8,506
3,056
56
Town Creek
2,574
3,844
1,270
49
Waccamaw
747
937
190
25
TOTALS
21,559
37,114
15,555
72
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990
HOUSING GROWTH BY COMPARABLE CENSUS TRACT
1980-1990
HOUSING UNITS
INCREASE
Census Tract
1980 1990
Number
Percent
201
2,881 3,495
614
21 %
202
1,709 2,548
839
49
203
5,919 9,198
3,279
55
204
4,240 8,082
3,842
91
205
4,902 11,065
6,163
126
206
1,900 2,726
826
43
TOTALS
21,559 37,114
15,555
72
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990
Age Breakdown
Age characteristics are important because they give an indication of likely future
school enrollments, future housing needs, and the anticipated market for certain retail
goods and various other community facilities. Overall, the table below indicates the
following trends:
From 1950 to 1990 there was a continued decline in the pre-school, early school,
and teen years population sub groups of the county as a percent of the total.
-At the same time, the primary labor age group and the mature labor age group
showed steady increases, reflecting the movement of the baby boom generation
through the life cycle.
-Most significant, however, is the overall increase in the retirement population of the
county. From 1940 until 1990, the percentage of the total population 65 years and
over more than tripled. This is especially significant when compared with the same
age group percentages for the state of North Carolina. Brunswick County continues
to draw a significant share of elderly as new residents to the area.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 13 Glenn Harbeck Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
'
AGE GROUPS IN BRUNSWICK COUNTY AS A PERCENT OF TOTAL POPULATION
1940-90
Age Group 1940 1950 1960
1970 1980
1990
Under 5 (Preschool) 11.6% 13.1 % 12.0%
9.6% 7.3%
6.5%
5 through 14 (Early School) 24.8 23.2 24.1
21.5 17.4
12.9
15 through 19 (Teen Years) 11.4 9.9 9.5
9.6 9.0
6.8
20 through 24 (College & New 9.0 7.3 5.5
7.6 7.6
6.0
'
Labor)
25 through 44 (Primary Labor) 25.0 25.9 23.7
22.7 27.0
28.8
45 through 64(Mature Labor) 13.7 14.7 18.0
20.6 21.0
24.4
65 and over (Retirees) 4.5 5.9 7.2
8.4 10.8
14.7
TOTAL 100% 100% 100%
100% 100%
100%
POPULATION 17,125 19,238 20,238
24,223 35,777
50,985
Source: US Censuses
PERCENT OF COUNTY POPULATION 65
YEARS & OVER
Brunswick County and the State of North Carolina
1970, 1980, and 1990
% OF TOTAL POPULATION
Year No. of Persons 65 In Brunswick
Compared to the
years & over in County
State of North
Brunswick Co
Carolina
1970 1,728 7.1 %
8.1 %
1980 3,835 10.8
10.2
1990 7,494 14.7
12.1
Source: US Censuses, 1970, 1980 and 1990
I
Brunswick County Planning Board page 14 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
Racial Composition
The continued rapid influx of primarily White residents, is reflected in the consistent
decline of the Black population as a percentage of total county population from 1950 to
1990. While more than 1 in 3 residents were Black in 1950, at present there are fewer
than 1 in 5 Blacks in the total county population.
RACIAL COMPOSITION OF BRUNSWICK COUNTY
AS A PERCENT OF TOTAL POPULATION
1950-90
1950 1960 1970
White 63.4% 64.6% 69.3%
Black 36.6 35.4 30.7
Other — — —
1980 1990
76.3% 81.1%
23.7 18.1
.8
TOTAL 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Source: US Censuses
Education
Changes in the educational characteristics of Brunswick County residents are
available statistically, but are not easy measures from which to draw conclusions. This
is because the rapid in -migration of new residents provides no baseline from which to
measure educational improvement.
In the area of "median years of school completed", for example, the statistics would
seem to indicate that Brunswick County has improved in this category quite
significantly. However, given the fact that 85% of the county's population increase is
attributable to new residents moving in from outside the area, this figure may be
misleading.
Further, improvements in the drop -out rate also receive mixed reviews from some
educators. While some educators argue that keeping students in school is a very
important objective, others argue that keeping unmotivated students in school is
disruptive and counterproductive to those students who really do want to learn.
MEDIAN YEARS OF SCHOOL COMPLETED
Selected Counties
1970, 1980
1970
1980
% Increase
Brunswick
9.7
12.0
23.7%
New Hanover
12.0
12.5
4.2
Columbus
9.6
11.3
17.7
Wake
12.2
12.9
5.7
North Carolina
10.6
12.2
15.1 %
Source: Statistical Abstract of NC Counties, 1991
Brunswick County Planning Board page 15 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
AVERAGE DROP -OUT RATE
(% OF TOTAL ENROLLMENT)
Selected Counties, Region O
1981 and 1988
' 1981-82 1987-88 AVERAGE
1981-88
Brunswick 11.70% 8.70% 8.72%
' New Hanover 8.65 6.81 7.91
Columbus 11.06 10.91 10.62
Pender 9.92 7.52 9.17
State of NC NA NA NA
Source: NC Dept. of Public Instruction
' An evaluation of local expenditures for schools can also be misleading, but is
presented below for the purpose of providing some insights into the County's overall
commitment to education. The table indicates that despite the County's concerted
efforts to improve the educational system over past years, the percentage of total local
financial resources allocated to local schools is the lowest of a 4-county region in
Southeastern North Carolina. It should be also noted that from a local contribution
' standpoint, Brunswick County ranks below the average for the State and for New
Hanover County, but ahead of Bladen, Columbus and Pender Counties.
LOCAL EXPENDITURES FOR SCHOOLS
Selected Counties and State of NC
1987-88
% of Local Total Expenditures, Local per pupil cost
Financial Resources 1987-1988 1989-90
(Millions of $'s) _ ($'s)
Bladen 31.26% $3.3m $725
New Hanover 33.78 18.7 947
Columbus 37.78 5.6 575
Pender 27.82 2.8 586
Brunswick 24.74 .9 870
State of NC 42.78 — 931
Source: Brunswick County Schools Survey Report, 1990-91, NC Department of Instruction
I
Brunswick County Planning Board page 16 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
1.2.1(b) Economy
Economic Sectors and Employment
Consistent with trends across the nation and in Western Europe, employment levels in
the manufacturing sector of the local economy have stagnated compared to the rapid
increases in non manufacturing employment. Much of the manufacturing base of the
United States has shifted to third world countries, where low labor rates, working
conditions and environmental standards are less stringent. The impact of this shift in
the economy of Brunswick County can be seen in the following tables.
MANUFACTURING VERSUS NON -MANUFACTURING EMPLOYMENT
BRUNSWICK COUNTY
Selected Years 1970-90
Year
Total
Manufacturing
Non -
manufacturing
1970
5,130
1,690
3,440
1975
8,830
3,320
5,510
1980
11,250
3,210
8,040
1985
13,960
2,770
11,190
1989'
17,020
2,680
14,000
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
For 1989, the most current year for which figures were available, total employment was counted according to county
of residence, while manufacturing employment was counted by place of work As such, the estimates of non -
manufacturing employment and manufacturing employment may not add to the total.
The above noted trend away from manufacturing and toward services is further refined
in the tables below. While the percentage of employment in manufacturing has
steadily declined since 1979, employment in trade has increased markedly. At the
same time, the continued rapid growth and development of the county has nearly
doubled the percentage of the workforce involved in construction.
PERCENT OF WORKERS IN MAJOR EMPLOYMENT CATEGORIES
BRUNSWICK COUNTY
1979,1984,1989
Year
Total Insured
Manufacturing
Transportation,
Trade
Construction
Workers
(%)
Communication,
(%)
(%)
and Utilities (%)
1979
6,228
52%
21%
21%
6%
1984
7,571
34
26
26
9
1989
8,302
32
24
34
11
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
Brunswick County Planning Board page 17 Glenn Harbedk Associates

Brunswick county Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
It is significant that those sectors of Brunswick
g na swlck County's economy that pay the highest
' wages have stagnated in terms of employment (manufacturing and TCU), while
employment categories that pay the lowest wages have increased most in terms of
overall numbers. This trend does not bode well forthe economic health of the county.
The leadership interviews, conducted for this plan, suggest strategies for turning this
' situation around. These will be discussed later in this document.
AVE. WEEKLY WAGE BY MAJOR EMPLOYMENT CATEGORY
BRUNSWICK COUNTY
1979, 1984, 1989
' Year Average Wage Manufacturing Transportation, Trade Construction
Overall Communication,
and Utilities
1979 $244 $341 $227 $121 $154
1984 347 493 552 160 228
1989 394 601 644 179 272
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
A comparison of Brunswick County's employment by major category with that of the
state reveals several noteworthy points. First, the dominant influence of the Carolina
Power and Light Company Nuclear Plant and the Sunny Point Military Terminal are
reflected in the high percentage of the county's employment in Transportation,
' Communication and Utilities. If either of these operations should ever be eliminated or
scaled back, the impact on the county's economy could be dramatic.
I. Secondly, the lower percentages of employment in wholesale and retail trade, and
services compared to the state of North Carolina, reflects the leakage of purchasing
dollars to commercial and service centers in Wilmington, Myrtle Beach and Whiteville.
While continued commercial growth in Shallotte may act to reduce this leakage, it may
take several years for the full impact to be realized.
I
Brunswick County Planning Board page 18 Glenn Harbedk Associates
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
INSURED EMPLOYMENT BY MAJOR CATEGORY
BRUNSWICK COUNTY AND NORTH CAROLINA
1983 AND 1990
1983
1990
Category
County
State
County
State
Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing
0.3%
0.7%
0.6%
1.0%
Construction
5.9
4.7
7.0
5.3
Mining
-
0.2
-
0.3
Manufacturing
33.7
33.7
18.0
28.3
Transportation, Communications and
15.5
4.8
14.8
4.9
Utilities
Wholesale & Retail
14.1
21.6
20.3
23.0
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate
2.4
4.0
5.3
4.3
Services
7.8
13.9
14.1
17.4
Government
20.3
16.4
19.8
15.5
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
Brunswick County has consistently exhibited a higher unemployment rate than both
neighboring New Hanover County and the State of North Carolina. The leadership
interviews conducted for this plan provided some insights into the reasons why
Brunswick County's unemployment rate is so high. Those reasons included:
The presence of an "underground economy which does not lend itself to traditional
reporting by state/federal employment and taxing agencies.
-The influx of a large retirement population entering the labor force after arriving in
the area.
The county's fast rate of population growth outpacing the ability of the local economy
to provide jobs.
-The apparent myth that because Brunswick County is growing so fast, there must be
jobs for the taking. As a result, many people move in with the belief that they'll find a
job once they get here.
It should also be noted that a large number of jobs in the county are held by residents
of New Hanover County. For example, there are a high number of workers at the
CP&L Plant in Southport who commute daily from the Wilmington area.
' As used in this report, the term "underground economy" refers to a variety of business activities, both legal and
illegal, which involve the exchange of money for goods and services for which no records of the transaction are kept
for tax purposes. Activities may include, for example, part-time commercial fishing (legal, except for non-payment of
taxes) and the importation and distribution of drugs (illegal). In discussions with the planning board, it was noted that
while the board does not condone such illegal activities, they are nonetheless an economic reality in many coastal
areas today.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 19 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
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1
UNEMPLOYMENT RATES
Brunswick and New Hanover Counties, and State Averages
1987-1991
1987 1988 1989 1990
Brunswick County 9.4% 7.6% 7.6% 8.0%
New Hanover Cty. 6.2 4.6 4.0 4.2
State of NC 4.5 3.6 3.5 4.6
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
1991
Per capita incomes in Brunswick County have been well below state and national
averages for the past several decades. Differences in per capita incomes also may be
attributed to several of the factors mentioned above, including especially the
underground economy. Those factors aside, there is no denying that wage rates in
Brunswick County are not on a par with wage rates in other parts of the state and
nation. The mere fact that the County's industry hunters are still using low wage rates
as a drawing card for new industry confirms this situation.
PER CAPITA INCOME
Brunswick County
1970, 1980, and 1989
1970
1980
1989,
Brunswick County.
$2,363
$5,981
$11,303
State of NC
3,220
7,780
15,287
United States
3,943
9,919
17,592
County Income as a
73.4%
76.9%
73.7%
% of State Income
County Income as a
59.9%
60.3%
64.3%
% of U.S. Income
Source: US Dept. of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis
Percentage changes in gross state sales and use tax collections fluctuate more widely
in Brunswick County when compared to the state of North Carolina. This is to be
expected when comparing a smaller economy with a larger economy. It is significant
to note, however, that beginning around 1980, Brunswick County's annual increases
in state sales and use tax collections consistently outpaced percent increases at the
state level.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 20 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis_
GROSS STATE SALES AND USE TAX COLLECTIONS
Selected Periods 1970-90
% CHANGE
Period
Brunswick
State of North
County
Carolina
1969-70
8.48%
10.69%
1974-1975
(9.14)
6.67
1979-1980
26.69
9.42
1984-1985
26.18
17.03
1989-1990
3.67
2.45
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
Agriculture
The table following illustrates the continuing decline of agriculture in Brunswick
County's overall economy. While the amount of acreage in cropland has fluctuated
somewhat from year to year, the overall trend toward declining acreage is quite clear.
Even more dramatic is the decrease in total income derived from agriculture. This is
especially significant given the increases in the price of agricultural products over the
same period of time.
It should be noted that the overall decrease in farms is part of a national trend. This is
due in some measure to the consolidation of smaller farms into larger farming
operations. Also, in coastal -oriented Brunswick County, there continues to be
substantial conversions of former agricultural land into more profitable residential
development. In addition, the United States is increasingly becoming an importer of
foods and other farm products, such as fibers and wood.
AGRICULTURAL INCOME AND HARVESTED CROPLAND
Brunswick County
1980-1989
TOTAL CROPLAND
TOTAL INCOME
1000 s of Acres
Millions of $'s
1980
28.5
33.0
1981
30.3
36.3
1982
34.1
25.4
1983
23.4
'20.3
1984
25.3
19.0
1985
30.1
20.8
1986
25.8
17.4
1987
21.7
19.0
1988
18.6
17.9
1989
21.1
20.2
Source: USDA and Brunswick County Extension Service
Brunswick County Planning Board page 21 Glenn Harbeck Associates

1 Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
Another traditional, resource -based element of Brunswick County's economy is the
seafood industry. The table below shows the dramatic decline in finfish landings from
' 1975 to 1991. Shellfish landings, on the other hand during this same period, seem to
be holding fairly constant. As will be seen in Section 1.2.1 (c) Impact of Seasonal
Population, seafood is nonetheless being outpaced by tourism -related industries in
terms of its overall significance to the economy of Brunswick County.
SEAFOOD LANDINGS
POUNDAGE AND VALUE
Brunswick County
1975-1991
FINFISH SHELLFISH
Poundage Value Poundage Value
(Millions of (Millions of (Millions of (Millions of
Pounds) Dollars) Pounds) Dollars)
1975 59.0 $1.0 1.1 $0.6
1980 70.8' 3.8 1.7 2.7
1985 1.0 1.3 0.8 1.8
1990 1.9 2.4 1.1 2.2
1991 1.7 2.1 1.0 1.7
Source: NC Division of Marine Fisheries, Morehead City, NC
Finfish figures for 1975 and 1980 reflect large volume catches of Menhaden, a non-food fish
used for fertilizer and other commercial purposes.
The rapid growth of Brunswick County is reflected well in the tax base figures during
the period from 1970 to 1990. During this twenty year period, the county's tax base
increased by a factor of nearly thirty times. At the same time, the county's tax rate
dropped by approximately two thirds. It should be noted that increases in property
values during this period may also be attributed to the tremendous inflationary
pressures present in the national economy during the 70's and 80's.
BRUNSWICK COUNTY REAL PROPERTY TAX BASE
'
1965-90
Year
Tax Base
Tax Rate
Tax Base
(Millions of $ s)
(per $100
(per capita)
valuation)
1965
$76.6
$1.600
—
'
1970
135.1
1.800
$5,577
1975
730.5'
0.700
1980
1,683.4'
0.470
47,053
1985
1990
2,213.2`
3,976.3'
0.595
0.685
—
77,990
Source: Brunswick County Tax Department and
Glenn Harbeck Associates
I*Assessment ratio increased from 50% to 100% of value for 1975 and all subsequent years.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 22 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
In the table below, note the impact that Brunswick County's rather substantial tax base
has on the ability of the County to generate considerable property tax revenues while
holding the tax rate well below area norms.
COUNTY -WIDE TAX RATES
Selected Counties
1989
County -wide Tax Rates
County -wide levy
Bladen
$.7150
6.2
New Hanover
.7200
34.4
Columbus
.6800
8.7
Pender
.6500
7.2
Brunswick
.5950
24.6
Source: Statistical Abstract of North Carolina Counties, 1991 p. H-28 and 29
Brunswick County Planning Board page 23 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
1.2.1(c) Impact of Seasonal Population
Clearly, the impact of a large seasonal population has a profound impact on the
' county. Community facilities and services must be designed and operated to meet
peak seasonal demand, in addition to the demand created by the permanent
population. The first table below compares Census counts of the county's permanent
population with estimates of the county's peak seasonal population during the 1980's.
The second table shows the relationship between year round and seasonal housing
units during the same period. Most significant, perhaps, is that the number of seasonal
housing units as a percentage of total housing units declined slightly during the
decade. This may be a reflection of the number of retirees moving to the county on a
permanent basis.
YEAR ROUND AND SEASONAL POPULATION GROWTH
Brunswick County
' 1980-1990
Year Year Round Peak Season Ratio of Peak
Population Population Season to
(Estimate) Permanent
Population
1980 35,777 107,000 3:1
1990 50,985 153,000 3:1
1980-90 15,208 46,000 —
Increase
' 1980-90 42.5% 43.0% —
% Increase
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990, Brunswick County Planning Department and Glenn Harbeck
Associates
YEAR ROUND AND SEASONAL HOUSING GROWTH
' Brunswick County
1980-1990
Year Total Housing Units Year Round Seasonal Housing Seasonal % of all
Housing Units Units housing units
1980 21,565 12,411 9,154 42%
1990 37,114 22,000 15,114 40%
1980-90 15,549 9,539 5,960 —
Increase
1980-90 72% 77% 65% —
' % Increase
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990
Brunswick CountyPlanning Board page 24 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
Another way of looking at Brunswick County's dependence on tourism is to compare
the volume of dollars spent on tourism relative to the total county population. The table
below shows that four counties in the state, Dare, Moore, Carteret and Brunswick, are
among the top twelve counties in terms of tourism dollars spent. These same four
counties, however, do not appear among the top twelve counties in terms of
population. Thus, these counties have a high volume of tourism expenditures when
compared to the other ninety-six counties in the state of North Carolina.
TOURISM DOLLARS SPENT VERSUS POPULATION
Leading Tourism Counties
County
Tourism
Rank
Population
Ranked in
Dollars
1000's of
Top 12 in
1000 s of $'s
People
Population
(1988)
(1990)
Mecklenburg
1,049,550
1
511
1
Wake
565,585
2
423
2
Guilford
455,086
3
347
3
Dare
440,921
4
23
NO
Buncombe
361,061
5
175
8
Forsythe
350,813
6
266
5
Durham
274,019
7
182
6
New Hanover
252,588
8
120
11
Moore
224,584
9
59
NO
Carteret
171,326
10
53
NO
Cumberland
166,443
11
275
4
Brunswick
145,695
1 2
51
N O
Source: NC Division of Travel and Tourism and US Census
Brunswick County Planning Board page 25 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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1

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
' The table following illustrates how increases in travel expenditures during the mid
1980's dramatically outpaced increases in total manufacturing wages in the county.
' This is especially significant given the rapid expansion of the U.S. economy following
the recession of 1982. If these trends continue, Brunswick County's reliance upon
travel and tourism will soon far exceed any "traditional" economic and employment
activities.
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF TRAVEL EXPENDITURES
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, 1982-1986
' Year Travel Expenditures' Total Manufacturing
Wages"
' 1982 23,480,000 68,870,444
1983 35,083,000 72,861,498
1984 98,429,000 74,482,039
1985 104,212,000 74,491,363
1986 121,117,000 73,858,873
1987 134,287,000 73,316,849
1988 145,695,000 77,277,060
1989 75,320,000"t 82,137,077
Sources: 'Travel and Tourism Division, NC Dept. of Commerce
' "Resources Development Commission of Brunswick County
"'In 1989, the method of computing travel expenditures was
changed, resulting in considerably lower figures for all counties
in the state.
' Please note that there is no intent in this table to offer a direct dollar for
dollar comparison between travel expenditures and manufacturing
wages. Rather, emphasis should be placed on the relative magnitude
' of increase in dollar amounts between the two categories.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 26. Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
The following table illustrates the highly seasonal nature of the retail economy of
t
Brunswick County. From a seasonal low of approximately $20 million during the
months of December, January, February and March, the retail economy explodes to
levels in excess of $30 million during the peak summer season. Thus, retail
merchants in Brunswick County are far more sensitive to sales volume during the peak
summer season, for example, than the more typical pre -Christmas season sales
period associated with more traditional economies. In fact, Christmas sales are more
apt to go to the regional commercial centers of Wilmington and Myrtle Beach.
GROSS RETAIL SALES BY MONTH
'
1990
Month Sales in Millions of Millions of Dollars
'
Dollars Above or Below
Monthly Ave
January $22.0 $(1.2)
'
February 20.5 (2.7)
March 20.5 (2.7)
April 25.9 2.7
May 30.6 7.4
June 25.2 2.0
July 32.7 9.5
August 35.6 12.4
'
September 31.7 7.5
October 25.3 2.1
November 23.6 .4
December 20.0 3.2
'
Difference 15.1 —
between
February and
'
August
Monthly 23.2 —
Average
Changes in Seasonal Population I
For a full discussion regarding the methodology employed to estimate changes in
seasonal as well as permanent population levels in Brunswick County, the reader is
directed to Section 1.5.1 (a) and (b) Permanent and Seasonal Population Estimates.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 27 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
7
1
[J
1.2.2 EXISTING LAND USE ANALYSIS
1.2.2(a) Current Conditions
Purpose:
An existing land use survey and analysis serves a number of useful functions. The
primary function is to provide a "snapshot" of development patterns, and a basis for
determining growth trends overtime. The survey, in map form, identifies where
development has occurred, and what kind of development it is. When conducted at a
high level of detail, the survey can also show the relationships between different kinds
of land use and whether or not they are compatible.
Up to date information on existing land use is fundamental to the preparation of a land
use plan. Not only is the survey helpful in preparing growth and development policies,
but it is also useful in identifying, for example, where it may be cost effective to provide
public services, such as water and sewer. Accurate information on existing land use
can also be helpful in making changes to an existing zoning ordinance, or in providing
new zoning where there was none before. Because Brunswick County is presently in
the process of preparing its first ever zoning ordinance, information on existing land
use is particularly important at this time.
Data provided by the survey is also useful to both the public and private sectors in
considering specific development proposals. Forthe public sector, the land use
survey can assist in siting a school or a park, while in the private sector, the
information might be helpful in locating sites for future shopping centers or residential
developments.
Methodology:
Since 1985, the Brunswick County Planning Department has conducted a number of
surveys of existing land use in Brunswick County. Periodically, information on existing
land use in all of the municipalities in the County (Calabash, Shallotte, Bolivia,
Navassa, Boiling Spring Lakes, Belville, and Sunset Beach) has also been collected.
Municipal level land use information, however, is not included on the existing land use
map found on the following page. For such information, the reader is directed to the
individual land use plans of each of these municipalities. Also, for more specific
information than is presented on the generalized land use map in this report, the
reader is directed to the Brunswick County Planning Department, where existing land
use maps at a scale of 1" = 400' are kept on file.
Geographic Areas of Analysis
Due to the relatively large size of Brunswick County (approximately 855 sq. miles) this
analysis divides Brunswick County into six geographic sub -areas:
Shallotte to the State Line
Shallotte River to Lockwood Folly
The Southport Oak Island Area
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis_
The Leland Area
Town Creek/Winnabow/Mill Creek
Ash/Waccamaw
These six areas were selected due to their regional significance within the county, as
well as their general level of name recognition by county residents.
Area 1 Shallotte to the State Line
During the decade of the 1980's, this area was the fastest growing part of Brunswick
County. The area continued to experience the spillover effects from continued rapid
growth in the Grand Strand/Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina. Before the 1980's,
most development in this part of the county was either at the beaches, or immediately
adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway opposite the beach areas.
During the past decade, however, this area has witnessed the introduction of
numerous large scale golf course communities, which have collectively consumed a
great deal of land. Examples of such large scale developments include: The Pearls,
Sea Trails, Lion's Paw, Ocean Harbor, and Brick Landing. Accompanying this
increase in large scale development has been a variety of convenience and specialty
shopping as well as the introduction of mainstream commercial shopping. Examples
of this include the Food Lion grocery store and Revco drug store at Seaside. Also,
during the course of preparing this plan, a new South Brunswick Branch of the Postal
Service opened at the Seaside location.
Over the past ten years, the Town of Shallotte has continued to strengthen its position
as a regional sub -nuclei of economic activity for this end of the county. Commercial
services and office developments have clustered in the Shallotte area. Despite the
recession of the past two years, demand for office developments stems from the
growing employment ranks of realtors, medical personnel, attorneys, and insurance
agents in the Shallotte area. Finally, there has been a continuation of the long
standing strip commercial development along NC 179 across from Ocean Isle Beach.
Area 2 Shallotte River to Lockwood Folly River
During the 1980's, this centrally located, coastal oriented area was the second fastest
growing section of Brunswick County. Similar to the Shallotte to State Line area,
growth was initially concentrated, for the most part, at Holden Beach and along the
Intracoastal Waterway immediately opposite the beach. Unlike Area 1, however, this
area has historically been developed with very small (e.g. 50) lots and less expensive
houses and manufactured homes. And, unlike the mixture of year round and seasonal
homes of Area 1, this area has a heavy predominance of vacation and weekend
homes.
While the trend toward manufactured housing in this part of the county has continued,
the last five years have seen the first planned golf course development arrive in the
area: Lockwood Links. It remains to be seen whether this is a foretelling of the
character of future development in the area, or merely an exception to the rule.
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Scattered commercial development can be found at various locations in the area.
Especially significant concentrations of commercial development are in the
Varnamtown area along the west shore of the Lockwood Folly River, and at Supply, an
unincorporated village located at the intersection of US 17 and NC 211. There is also
a strip of commercial development dispersed along NC 130 immediately across from
Holden Beach. Finally, for more substantial shopping needs, commercial services and
retail outlets in the Town of Shallotte also draw from this area.
Area 3 Southport/Oak Island
This area has perhaps the most diverse collection of land uses of anywhere in the
county. The area includes several major industrial uses, including the Carolina Power
and Light Nuclear Plant, the former Pfizer Plant, and the recently added Cogentrix
Cogenerating Facility. In addition, the Sunny Point Ocean Military Terminal consumes
a large amount of acreage along the Cape Fear River.
Residential development ranges from permanent housing concentrated in the Town of
Southport to more seasonal housing at Long Beach and Caswell Beach. To the
interior of the area lies the sparsely developed City of Boiling Spring Lakes, with some
2,000 people living within this 17,000 acre planned community. Also added to this
area in the past five years is the new St. James Plantation, which opened in the Fall of
1991.
Unlike the beaches closer to South Carolina, the beaches in the Southport/Oak Island
area are not as commercially oriented. Most commercial services are located on the
mainland side on the Intracoastal Waterway. In addition, a moderate amount of
commercial development is located within the Town of Southport and its extraterritorial
jurisdiction (ETJ). Many of these are "mom and pop" type small businesses.
Significant within the past five years has been the commitment of Yaupon Beach to a
new sewage treatment system. Active planning is also underway for the creation of a
sewer system by the Southeastern Sanitary District west of Southport and to the
mainland side of Yaupon Beach. The possibility of an additional bridge to Oak Island
toward the west central end of the beach is another infrastructure improvement which
could radically alter development patterns in this part of the county. Prospects for the
bridge currently remain unresolved.
Finally, Long Beach Road (NC 133) from its intersection with NC 211 to the Oak Island
bridge continues to present problems regarding commercial strip development and
multiple driveway accesses onto this roadway. This problem is most pronounced
during peak summer periods, when demand for travel to the beach is at a premium.
Area 4 The Leland Area
The general Leland Area actually encompasses the three communities of Leland,
Navassa and Belville as well as significant development and land outside these
municipalities.. In some respects, this area serves as a bedroom community for New
Hanover County just across the river. In other respects, the presence of the Dupont
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manufacturing plant on the Brunswick County side of the river draws large numbers of
employees from the Wilmington area.
Recent developments in the Leland area include: the Old Forte Golf Course (reported
to be a non -real estate, purely commercial course), a nursing home, condominiums
and single family homes in the vicinity of Olde Towne, and Jackey's Creek
Plantation —a golf course community in the Belville vicinity. Brunswick County's only
industrial parks are also located in this part of the county. These industrial parks are
served by the County's first sewage treatment plant, which has been open and
operating for about five years.
Other factors significantly affecting this area include the possibility of a sewer system
serving the Leland Sanitary District and further progress on a sewage treatment plant
for the Town of Belville. Area transportation planners also continue to consider the
$$outer loop" as part of the Greater Wilmington Area Transportation Plan. If constructed,
this major new roadway would pass above (and thus bypass) this part of Brunswick
County, accommodating significant traffic flows around Wilmington as a new US 17.
Area 5 Town Creek/Winnabow/Mill Creek
This is essentially an ex urban, interior part of Brunswick County, split by US. 17.. The
area draws its development strength from its reasonable proximity to the employment
base of New Hanover County. The area has the advantages of low taxes, open
country and some beautiful, undulating terrain —atypical of the broad, flat, pine -
covered coastal plain of southeastern North Carolina. Most development in this area
appears to be springing up in the form of subdivisions either with direct access to US
17 or within a short distance of the US 17 corridor. There is no industrial activity in this
part of the county, and very little office or retail development. Residents who live in this
area typically travel to New Hanover County, Shallotte, or Myrtle Beach for their
shopping needs.
Area 6 Ash/Waccamaw Area
This rural part of Brunswick County has experienced the slowest growth rate of any
area of the county for the past several decades. It is largely a resource -based area,
meaning that it depends largely on farming and timber related activities for its
economic sustenance. Population levels and development densities in this part of the
county tend to be very low. As a result, little activity is seen in this area. New
subdivisions established in this area during the 1980's tended to be quite small, and
with few public or private improvements and little, if any, amenities.
One exception to the relatively dormant development character of this area is the
presence of the Brunswick Community College, located on U.S. 17 in this part of the
County. Since the time the last land use plan was prepared, the College has
continued to grow with the addition of two new buildings and a new auditorium. The
College is a significant land use activity and traffic generator in this part of the county.
As plans for the continued growth of this important institution are refined, it will be
important that such plans be coordinated as to their impact in this part of the county
and on U.S 17, in particular.
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1.2.2(b) Land Use Trends and Problems
Based upon the foregoing discussion of development patterns in the six geographic
areas of Brunswick County, several land use trends and problems can be readily
identified. These problems include:
rScattered, unattractive development along beach roads creates a poor
image.
Commercial development which has been scattered along the major roads from
U.S.17 to the county's ocean beaches, foretells of the kind of commercial development
that could consume much of the road frontage in the county at some point in the future.
This was identified as a major concern by residents at the public workshops and,
fortunately, is something that can be addressed to some degree by a zoning
ordinance. In addition to a poor image, such development results in multiple,
uncoordinated driveway cuts, reducing the traffic carrying capacity and safety of the
very roads most in demand for efficient traffic movement during peak summer periods.
1 Scattered subdivision activity is difficult to serve.
Brunswick County has experienced a wide range of relatively small-scale, scattered
subdivisions in the past. Such scattered subdivision activity tends to disperse the
population and makes the provision of services expensive and inconvenient, whether
by the public or by the private sector. Examples include refuse collection and disposal
and school buses. Also, the relatively large lots and homogeneous land uses
associated with these developments encourage large lot sprawl, isolated from
commercial services. As a result, all trips for personal services must be by individual
automobile, to the exclusion of alternative transportation modes. Ultimately, this form
of development overloads the county's road systems, especially during peak season
summer months.
Sewage problems/sewage solutions.
' The county is wrestling with what many local leaders see as the number one constraint
to development— that of sewage treatment and disposal. The county's relatively
sparse development patterns make the provision of a single, centralized sewage
treatment system unworkable. Areas where there are concentrations of smaller lots or
higher density development (such as near the beach communities) offer some
possibilities, however. As a result, there are several local area initiatives underway
which would seek to address this problem. For an overview of these activities, the
reader is directed to the section of this plan which addresses Sewage Treatment,
Section 1.4.2.
Growth along the county's water -oriented edges.
Just as the population of the United States has been moving steadily towards the
coastal margins of the country for the past several decades, the new population of
Brunswick County is also being drawn to the water edges of the county. These edges
include, particularly, all of the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway, and those
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sections of the Cape Fear River within a reasonable commuting distance of the City of
Wilmington. While newer developments in the form of large scale golf communities
have been moving inland to a degree, even these developments continue to reflect a
strong bias toward proximity to the Intracoastal Waterway, the beaches and the river.
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1 1.2.3 CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
As a means of coordinating the various planning activities of Federal, State and Local
governments in Brunswick County, a summary of important plans, policies and
regulations is included here.
1.2.3(a) Local Government
Plans, Policies, and Regulations
1976 Brunswick un Land Use Plan —This was the first county -wide land use Ian
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prepared under the guidelines of the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). The
plan established the initial land classification system for the county, as well as a series
of growth policies and implementation actions.
1981 and 1987 Brunswick County Land Use Plan Updates —These five-year updates
to the original 1976 plan offered refinements to the growth policies and established a
more systematic basis for decision making by both local government and the private
sector.
1988 Brunswick County Thoroughfare Plan —In March of 1988, shortly after adoption
of the last Land Use Plan Update, a Thoroughfare Plan for Brunswick County was
adopted by the NC. Board of Transportation following local adoption by the County
and its municipalities. This was a cooperative effort involving staff of the Thoroughfare
Planning Unit, Planning and Research Branch, Division of Highways, NC Department
of Transportation, and a County -wide Thoroughfare Plan Coordinating Committee,
made up of representatives of numerous local governments and Chambers of
,t Commerce in Brunswick County. A summary of the findings and recommendations of
this plan is included in Section 1.4.3 of this report.
1991 Water System Distribution Master Plan —In September of 1990, work was
completed on a new Water Distribution System Master Plan. Prepared for Brunswick
County by the engineering firm of William G. Daniel and Associates, the report was
based o the 1987 Land Use Plan and projections made jointly by the Planning Board
and Utility Operations Board for a twenty year period. The report analyzed the current
distribution system, projected future water consumption, and recommended
improvements to the system for action by 1991,1995 and 2010. A summary of the
findings and recommendations of this plan is also included in Section 1.4.3 of this
report.
Subdivision Regulations —Brunswick County has had a subdivision ordinance in
place since 1974; it was subsequently updated in June of 1980. This ordinance had
few requirements or standards for development. Private, unpaved roads were
' permitted; no minimum lot size was specified.
In early 1992, a new subdivision ordinance became effective, after a long, protracted
process of review and approval. The new ordinance includes a requirement for paved
roads in major subdivisions —according to North Carolina Department of
Transportation standards. There is also more involvement by the County planning
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
staff in the review process and an earlier examination of subdivisions at the sketch
plan stage. In this manner, the staff is in a position to give feedback to applicants
before preliminary plat review. The ordinance also establishes minimum lot widths
and setback lines, and a new 7,500 square foot minimum lot size.
7_onin2:--Despite the fact that Brunswick County is the second fastest growing county'
of all 100 counties in the state of North Carolina, there is no zoning in areas of the
county under the County government's jurisdiction. The lack of a zoning ordinance
may change in the near future, however. In November of 1991, the zoning issue was
put before the voters of Brunswick County in a non -binding referendum. The motion in
favor of instituting zoning passed by a margin of 2-1 at the voting booth. As a result of
this and other factors, the Brunswick County Commissioners gave a directive to the
County's
planning department to present a proposed zoning ordinance by June of
1992. At the time of this writing, the draft ordinance is under review by the Planning
Board and County Commissioners.
It should be noted that the need for zoning was identified at all the public workshops
P P
held during the early stages of the land use plan process, and was also mentioned
consistently during the leadership interviews
several forthe land use plan.
Site Plan Review —Since 1981, the Planning Board has had a policy calling upon
persons who plan to construct larger commercial facilities or higher density/large scale
residential projects to voluntarily submit their site plans for review and comment. This
policy has not changed since the 1987 Land Use Plan. Submission of site plans is up
to the discretion of the builder or developer; under this arrangement, only a building
permit is necessary to begin construction. Despite the purely voluntary nature of this
process, it is estimated that about 85% of all of these types of development proposals
go through such review and comment. '
State Building Code Enforcement —In April of 1985, the Board of County
Commissioners adopted ordinance No. 62 calling for a full program of administration
and enforcement of all volumes of the state building code. This function was initially
charged to the County Planning Department. In October 1987, a separate Building
Inspections Department was created and there have been several Building Directors ,
since that time. Responsibility for building code enforcement has subsequently been
transferred to the County Engineer. At the present time, carrying out the program of
building code enforcement involves four inspectors and two clerical support people, in
addition to overall direction received from the County Engineer.
Waste Water Treatment Regulation —The Environmental Health section of the County
Health Department administers and enforces state law regarding septic tank systems.
The Environmental Management Division of the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Health exercises authority over other waste water treatment systems.
t According to the US Census Bureau, Brunswick County's population increased from 35,777 in 1980 to
50,985 in 1990, for a percentage increase of 42.5%. This was second in the state only to Dare County
(the Outer Banks), which had a 70.0% increase over the same period. (Office of State Management and
Budget) '
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Federal Flood Insurance Program —Also in April of 1985, Ordinance No. 62, passed by
the Board of County Commissioners, started the County's administration of the Federal
Flood Insurance Program regulations. Enforcement began in March of 1986, following
receipt of an acceptable set of Flood Insurance Rate Maps from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency. This program is administered and enforced by the
Building Inspection Department, with the Planning Board serving as the appeal
agency from decisions of the Building Director. If the structure is located in a flood
prone area, certification of the structure's ground floor elevation is required.
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1.2.3 (b) Federal and State Licenses and Permits
In addition to the local plans, policies, and regulations identified above, there are a ,
number of other regulatory programs administered at the Federal and State level
which also exercise control over certain types of development activities. The following
is a list of some of these regulatory programs and permits. For a more complete listing,
and description of the specific activities controlled and permitting requirements, the
reader is directed to the publication entitled NC Environmental Permit Directory, by the
NC Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources, Division of Planning
and Assessment, 1991.
For each item which follows, the regulatory program or permit is first identified by its
official name, the responsible agency name is then given, followed by a brief
description of the activities controlled. A statutory reference is also provided.
State Licenses and Permits
AIR QUALITY PERMIT
Division of Environmental Management, Air Quality Section, Air Permits Branch (or the
appropriate Regional Office).
Required for any person who establishes or operates any air contaminant source;
equipment which may result in emissions of air contaminants or is likely to cause air
pollution; or construction or installation of any air cleaning device. (15A NCAC
2H.0600-.0610; 15A NCAC 2D.0500-.1108)
CAMA MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
NC Division of Coastal Management
The Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) stipulates that permits are required for all
development or land disturbing activities within designated Areas of Environmental
Concern (GEC's) throughout the 20-county coastal area. Areas of Environmental
Concern include marshlands, tidelands, shoreline and waters of the estuarine system;
beaches, dunes, and inlets of the ocean hazard area; public fresh water supply areas;
and fragile natural and cultural resource areas. Development other than major,
termed ". minor development", requires a permit from the local government for work in
an AEC. (15A NCAC 7H permit standards; 7J permit procedures; 7M general policies;
7K permit exemptions)
COASTAL AREA MANAGEMENT ACT (CAMA) MINOR DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
administered by Brunswick County under authority granted by the Coastal Area
Management Act and standards adopted by the Coastal Resources Commission.
Single family, oceanfront houses usually require a CAMA minor permit. Other
examples of development requiring a minor CAMA permit would be single family
houses along the shores of sounds and rivers, small private and commercial
structures, and minor high ground grading or filling. (15A NCAC 7H permit standards;
,
7J permit procedures; 7M general policies; 7K permit exemptions.) Brunswick County
has two Minor CAMA Permit Officers.
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FEDERAL CONSISTENCY DETERMINATION
NC Division of Coastal Management (DCM)
Required for: 1) Federal agency activities, 2) activities requiring federal licenses or
permits, 3) activities requiring Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Licenses, and/or 4)
activities involving federal assistance to state or local governments. (North Carolina
General statute 113A-100 et seq.. and Section 307 of the Federal Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972, as amended.)
STATE DREDGE AND FILL PERMIT
Division of Coastal Management
Any project involving excavation and /or filling activities in estuarine waters, tidelands,
marshlands, or state-owned lakes requires a permit. (15A NCAC 7J permit
procedures)
PERMIT FOR AQUACULTURE OPERATIONS
Division of Marine Fisheries
A permit is required for any aqua culture operation involved in the propagation of
saltwater/marine species of fish, shell fishing and crustaceans. (15A NCAC 31 .0011)
OIL REFINING FACILITY PERMIT
Division of Environmental Management
Required for construction or operation of an oil refining facility. (15A NCAC IE .0014)
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PERMIT
Division of Solid Waste Management
Established for the proper management of solid waste, these facilities are categorically
defined as Treatment and Processing, Transfer, and/or Disposal Facilities. In addition
to these types of facilities, specific rules are established for the management of special
waste types, i.e. septage, yard waste, medical waste, etc. Permits are issued in two -
parts; a permit to construct the facility precedes a permit to operate. (15A NCAC 1313)
INJECTION WELL CONSTRUCTION/USE PERMIT, Division of Environmental
Management, Ground water Section.
Required of any person proposing to construct, alter, repair or abandon any injection
well or owning, using, operating or proposing to use or operate any well for the
purpose of injecting any substance to the subsurface or ground waters of the state.
(15A NCAC 2C .0201 - .0214)
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UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK NOTIFICATION
Division of Environmental Management Ground water Section
North Carolina's Underground Storage Tank (UST) Rules, became effective on
January 1, 1991. These rules establish performance standards and notification
requirements for new and existing UST systems, set for release detection and
reporting requirements, and establish procedures for the closure of UST systems and
cleanup of releases. (15A NCAC 2N .0101 - .0805)
WELL CONSTRUCTION PERMIT
Division of Environmental Management Ground water Section
Required for any person constructing a well with a design capacity of 100,000 gallons
per day or greater, or of any well added to an existing well system if the combined
system is 100,000 gallons per day or greater. (15A NCAC 2C .0100 - .0119) It should
be noted that Brunswick County has no ordinance governing private wells.
IMPOUNDMENT PERMIT
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources, Division of Environmental
Health
,
A permit is required prior to the construction or excavation of a basin or the obstruction
of stream flow that would result in any body of water of 100 acres or more except when
formed under natural conditions. (15A NCAC 18B .0300 - .0309)
LOCATION AND PROTECTION OF PUBLIC WATER SUPPLIES
Public Water Supply Section
A public water supply system is any system which provides piped water for human
consumption and the system has at least 15 service connections or regularly serves at
least 25 individuals daily at least 60 days out of a year. (15A NCAC 18C, .0202, .0202,
.0203)
WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS APPROVAL
Public Water Supply Section, Department of Environment, Health, and Natural
Resources
Required for construction, alteration, or expansion of a public water supply system.
(15A NCAC 18C, .0300, .0400, .0500, - .1000)
DAM SAFETY PERMIT
Division of Environmental Health
Any person proposing to construct, repair, modify or remove a dam must file a
statement concerning the proposed activity. A permit will be required prior to the
initiation of such activity if the dam is 15 feet or greater in height (from top of dam to
lowest point at downstream toe) and the impoundment capacity is 10-acre-feet or
greater at the top of the dam. (15A NCAC 2K .0100 - .0408) I
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GEOPHYSICAL EXPLORATION PERMIT
Director of the Division of Land Resources
A permit is required to conduct geological, geophysical, and other surveys and
investigations including seismic methods for the discovery of oil, gas, or other mineral
prospects. (15A NCAC 5C .0001 - .0028)
MINING PERMIT
Division of Land Resources, Land Quality Section
A mining permit is required for any land disturbing activity that affects one or more
acres of land and is conducted to accomplish one or more of the following: breaking
surface soil to extract or remove minerals, ores, or other solid matter; any activity or
process to remove or to extract, minerals, ores, soils, and other solid matter from its
original location; or the preparation, washing, cleaning or other treatment of such
materials so as to make them suitable for commercial, industrial, or construction use.
(15A NCAC 513.0001 - .0012)
PERMIT TO DRILL EXPLORATORY OIL OR GAS WELL
Division of Land Resources, Geological survey Section
A permit is required to conduct any exploratory drilling for oil and gas at any location in
the state. (15A NCAC 5D .0001 - .0011)
SEDIMENTATION CONTROL PLAN
Division of Land Resources, Land Quality Section
An approved erosion and sedimentation control plan is required for any land
disturbing activity which uncovers one or more contiguous acres of land. (15A NCAC
46 .0001 - .0027) In Brunswick County, written approval of any such sedimentation
control plan must be verified before any local building permit may be issued.
STATE CLEARINGHOUSE: INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS (IRP)
State Clearinghouse, Department of Administration
The State Clearinghouse primarily functions to maintain a state and local level review
and comment system for the following:
A. Notifications of intent to apply for federal assistance
B. Direct Federal Development Activities
C. Environmental Impact Statements (State and National)
(1 NCAC 9.500, 1 NCAC 25)
NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT
State Clearinghouse, Department of Administration
Any activity which involves the expenditure of public moneys, state actions
1 (approvals), and which may significantly affect the quality of the environment, must
comply with the provisions of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. (1 NCAC
25, 15A NCAC 1 C)
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
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ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION - PERMIT REVIEW
Environmental Review Coordinator, Division of Archives and History, Department of
Cultural Resources
Under state and federal regulations, the Division's Archaeology and Historic
Preservation Section operates an environmental review and compliance program
which reviews permit applications to determine If Issuance will affect significant
terrestrial or submerged archaeological, historical, or architectural resources. (NCAC
T07: 04R .0200 - .0206) It should be noted that this review process is generally not
required for projects not involving state or federal permits or financial assistance.
PERMIT FOR EXPLORATION: RECOVERY OR SALVAGE
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Office of State Archaeology, Division of Archives and History
Any person wishing to explore, recover or salvage an abandoned shipwreck or any
underwater archaeological artifacts in state-owned bottoms of navigable waters must
apply for a permit. (7 NCAC 413 .1000 - 1013)
BRIDGE (OR OTHER STRUCTURES) EASEMENT OR LEASE (over navigable waters)
Department of Administration, State Property Office
Bridge (or other structures) easement over navigable waters and leases for oil and gas
exploration and minerals. (1 NCAC 6B .0601 - .610, .0306)
CABLE OR PIPELINE EASEMENTS (lands below navigable waters)
Department of Administration, State Property Office
Cable and /or pipeline corridors in or on lands below navigable waters. (I NCAC 66
.0601 - .0610)
EASEMENT TO FILL (lands below navigable waters)
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Department of Administration, State Property Office
Easements to fill are required for all filling activities in navigable waters where land is
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raised above the normal high water mark. The State claims title to all lands below the
mean high water mark. Easements to fill are not required if the applicant has lost the
area due to erosion during his period of ownership. (I NCAC 6B .0501 - .0512, .0601 -
.0610)
401 CERTIFICATION
Division of Environmental Management, Water Quality Section
Any person engaged in an activity which may result in a discharge to navigable
waters, defined as waters of the United States, and requires a federal permit, must
obtain a certification that such discharge will be in compliance with applicable state
water quality standards. (15A NCAC 2H .0500 - .0502, and 15A NCAC 213 .0109 and
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.0201 (b)).
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' NPDES (NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM PERMIT
Division of Environmental Management, Permits and Engineering Unit, Water Quality
Section.
Permit is required for any project involving the construction, alteration, and/or
operation of any sewer system, treatment works, or disposal system and certain storm
twater runoff which would result in a discharge into surface waters. (15A NCAC 2H
.0100)
PERMIT FOR WASTE NOT DISCHARGED TO SURFACE WATERS (SANITARY
SEWAGE SYSTEMS)
Note: This type of activity is controlled by one of two agencies, depending upon the
1 specific nature of the waste discharge:
(1) Division of Environmental Management Permits and Engineering Unit, Water
Quality Section
Permits are required for review involving the following project types: sewers and
1 sewer extensions; pumping stations, sludge disposal systems, ground absorption
systems; spray irrigation or land application disposal systems and treatment works;
and closed system or recycle disposal systems and treatment works. (15A NCAC 2H
.0200)
(2) Division of Environmental Health
IPrior to the construction of any residence, business, or place of public assembly, a
permit must be obtained from the local health department for an approved sanitary
' sewage system unless the system is designed to discharge to the surface waters or
land surface or unless the system is owned and operated as a public or community
system. These on -site sewage permits, issued by the local health departments, consist
' of improvement permits and system approval prior to construction. (15A NCAC 18A,
.1934 to .1968)
STORMWATER CERTIFICATION
Division of Environmental Management, Water Quality Planning Section
Storm water certification is required for all development in the 20 coastal counties that
involves land disturbing activities on more than one acre of land and requiring a
CAMA major permit or a sedimentation/erosion control plan. (15A NCAC 2H .1000 and
26 .0200)
' SURFACE WATER SUPPLY WATERSHED PROTECTION
Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources, Division of Environmental
Management
This is a relatively new, cooperative program of water supply watershed management
and protection administered by local government consistent with minimum statewide
management requirements as established by the Environmental Management
Brunswick County Planning Board page 42 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
Commission (EMC) (15A NCAC 2B .0100, .0200, and .0300) No such watersheds
'
have been identified in Brunswick County.
Federal Licenses and Permits
,
PERMITS TO CONSTRUCT IN NAVIGABLE WATERS
The Army Corp of Engineers
These are permits required under Sections 9 and 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of
1899
DREDGING AND FILLING ACTIVITY
The Army Corp of Engineers
These are permits required under Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act of 1972.
PERMITS
FOR BRIDGES, CAUSEWAYS, PIPELINES OVER NAVIGABLE WATERS
The US Coast Guard
These are permits required under the General Bridge Act of 1946 and the Rivers and
Harbors Act of 1899.
ENERGY RELATED PERMITS
The Geological Survey, Bureau of Land Management (Department of Interior)
These are permits required for off -shore drilling and approvals of outer continental
shelf pipeline corridor rights of way.
OTHER ENERGY RELATED PERMITS
'
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission issues licenses for siting, construction and
operation of nuclear power plants; required under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, Title
II of the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974. 1
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission issues permits for construction '
operation, and maintenance of interstate pipelines facilities required under the Natural
Gas Act of 1938. The Commission also issues: orders for interconnection of electric
transmission facilities under Section 202 (b) of the Federal Power Act; permits for
abandonment of natural gas pipeline and associated facilities under section 7C (b) of
the Natural Gas Act of 1938; and licenses for non-federal electric projects and ,
associated transmission lines under Sections 4 and 15 of the Federal Power Act.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 43 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
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1.2.3 (c) Evaluation of Previous Land Use Plan Effectiveness
The last update of the Brunswick County Land Use Plan was certified by the Coastal
Resources Commission in December of 1987. The following is an evaluation by the
County Planning Department as to how that plan addressed the major issues it
identified and how successful the County has been in implementing the policies
recommended. Also included are highlights of several specific implementation actions
carried out in support of the 1987 Update —organized under each of the plan's major
policy sections. As will be seen in the paragraphs which follow, some of these items
are supportive of policies in more than one section of the plan.
Section 2.0 Overall Guiding Policy
Policy 2.0 of the 1987 update set the overall tone for the plan by stating the County's
overall support for positive growth and development. In all activities of the County
government, this basic policy has been the overriding factor in decision making. Thus,
the County's action in support of, for example, road improvements, expansions to the
County's water supply system, development of the County's industrial park, and better
management of new development through improved development regulations, are all
consistent with this objective.
Actions in Support of Section 2.1 Resource Protection Policies
Since the adoption of the last plan update in December 1987, the County has taken
several specific steps in furtherance of resource protection within the county:
New Subdivision Regulations —In October 1991, the County adopted a new, more
stringent subdivision ordinance after a lengthy period of public debate.
Zoning Ordinance Being Prepared —In November of 1991, the voters of Brunswick
County went to the polls to decide upon a non -binding referendum for zoning. The
motion passed by a better than 2-1 vote. The Board of County Commissioners then
directed the County Planning Director to present a draft ordinance by June of 1992.
The draft is presently under review.
Lockwood Folly River Basin Studies and Water Quality Monitoring —Due to the critical
importance and strategic location of the Lockwood Folly River to the central part of
coastal Brunswick County, the County has urged state and federal governments to
undertake necessary studies to address the challenges of growth and development
within this watershed basin. Water quality monitoring has been an on -going part of
these studies.
Reviews of Changes in Navigational Channels and Marina Proposals —The County
has worked in conjunction with the State in commenting upon various proposals for
changes in navigational channels and for marina proposals in various parts of the
county.
Each of the above actions demonstrate tangible efforts to improve the County's ability
to direct growth, and thus better manage the area's valuable environmental resources.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 44 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
Actions in Support of Section 2.2 Resource Production and Management
Policies
r
n Going Programs —Brunswick County has continued to fund various county level
programs in support of agriculture, forestry, mineral production and mining and
fisheries.
Consideration of Resource Production Issues in New Zoning Ordinance —
As the new zoning ordinance is developed, consideration is being given to the
necessary conservation of key resource areas in the county for long term management
and use. It is significant that the preparation of the ordinance will be occurring during
the same period of time that the land use plan update is being prepared. It is the ,
intention of the County that these two documents will work hand in hand.
Actions in Support of Section 2.3 Economic and Community Development
ment
Policies
Brunswick County fully endorses state planning guidelines emphasizing the close
relationship between necessary infrastructure and growth. The County's industrial
recruitment program is fully related to the necessary infrastructure for such land use
activities. Some examples follow:
Waste Water Treatment Plant —The County government's first waste water treatment
plant is now open and directly supports the development of the two industrial parks in
the Leland area.
Zoning Ordinance —A primary consideration of the County's new zoning ordinance will
t
be a close relationship between proposed zoning districts and the availability or
proposed availability of necessary infrastructure. The ordinance will also serve to
reinforce the economics of that infrastructure once put in place.
Water Access Plan —Since the adoption of the 1987 land use plan, the County has
seen to it that a water access plan was develop and adopted. This plan is considered
important to plan for access to the county's estuarine waters by area citizens.
Navigation Needs —The navigation needs of the county's residents have been
emphasized to the State and the Corps of Engineers over the past five years, in
studies related to Lockwood Folly in particular. The County also supports continuing
and periodic improvements to the Cape Fear River channel for its regional economic
development benefits as well as national security concerns.
Energy Facilities —A relatively new cogenerating facility in the Southport/Oak Island
area provides steam and surplus power to CP&L and the Archer, Daniels, Midland
facility in that part of the county. The project is a major addition to the county tax base.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 45 Glenn Harbeclk Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
Subdivision Ordinance The County's new subdivision regulations follow through on
the commitment of the County to encourage better streets (especially paved) and
' better standards for development in general.
Clean County Program —Also since 1987, a clean county program has been
established and staffing provided.
Actions in Support of Section 2.4 Public Participation Policies
With the most recent update to the County's land use plan, the County has continued
its commitment to public involvement in plan development. In keeping with this policy,
the County has again sought to hold public meetings in numerous locations in the
county rather than requiring residents to travel, for example, to the county government
center in Bolivia. In addition to the land use plan public involvement, there have also
been numerous workshops, hearings and other types of public work sessions held in
' the various parts of the county on issues such as the subdivision regulations, solid
waste management, parks and recreation, planning for the County water system, etc.
Even so, the spread out nature of the county presents particular challenges for
meaningful public involvement, and efforts must continue to find more and better ways
to garner additional input.
Actions in Support of Section 2.5 Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post Disaster
Recovery and Evacuation Plan
Since 1985, and for the first time in the history of Brunswick County, the County has
actively enforced flood plain regulations, all volumes of the state building code, and
has adopted the previously mentioned new subdivision regulations. In addition, it is
' expected that the new county zoning ordinance will work to guide new, intensive
development away from hazardous locations in the county.
Section. 3.0 Land Classification
In keeping with the intent of the land classification system, the vast majority of all new
development in the county since 1987 has occurred within the municipal, developed,
transitional, and community land classification areas. While there are examples of
several small subdivisions which have occurred outside these areas, particularly in the
Ash-Waccamaw area, these developments have had little impact on regional
population shifts or needs for infrastructure improvements. They are also generally
well removed from any impacts on the fragile environmental resources of the county.
' In addition, the expansion of the County's public water supply system has been
entirely consistent with the growth policies implied by the land classification map. It
should be noted that in the time frame since the last land use plan update was
adopted (November 1987 through calendar year 1991), the County has reviewed
some 193 subdivision plats totaling 12,077 lots and has issued a total of 8,155
building permits in the unincorporated county, as follows:
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Brunswick County Planning Board page 46 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
Single Family Residential 813 ,
Manufactured Housing Units (Mobile Homes) 4,135
Multi -family Units 50 '
Commercial 283
Industrial 5
Other 2,869 1
Improvements to the 1992 Update
Improvements to the 1992 Brunswick Count Land Use Plan have y e focused primarily In
three areas:
1. The Land Classification Ma has been refined carefully examining the new
P y g e land
classification categories suggested by the state guidelines for their application in
Brunswick County.
2. Policy statements have been refined, more accurately reflecting what are believed
to be the prevailing wishes of the citizens in Brunswick County. This refinement ,
required a careful examination of the issues identified at public meetings, as well as
consensus building among the board members responsible for drafting and adopting
the plan.
3. The County continues to emphasize and refine the relationship between
infrastructure improvements and planned areas for growth and development.
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Brunswick County Planning Board page 47 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
1.3 Constraints; Land Suitability
The State CAMA guidelines require that three factors be considered in land use plans
regarding land suitability constraints. The factors are: (1) physical limitations for
development, (2) fragile areas, and (3) areas with resource potential. While much of
the information contained in this section is unchanged from the 1987 Land Use Plan, it
has been updated where appropriate.
1.3.1 PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT
Physical limitations for development involve areas where development would be
costly or cause undesirable consequences. Included are hazard areas, areas with soil
limitations, water supply sources, and areas where the slope exceeds 12%.
1.3.1(a) Natural Hazard Areas
In Brunswick County, natural hazard areas are areas of shallow flooding as well as
areas which are subject to wave velocity. The only ocean erodible area under County
jurisdiction is the area of the Baptist Assembly Grounds. That particular area has
experienced historical and unusual accretion rather than erosion of ocean front lands.
It should also be noted that there is a seawall at this location.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has designated flood hazard
areas in Brunswick County. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has prepared a map of
Storm Surge Inundation Areas for Brunswick County. This map is based on the
Special Program to List the Amplitude of Surge from Hurricanes (SPLASH) model.
These maps are acceptable for general planning purposes. However, if a specific
parcel of land is in doubt as to its location with regard to a flood hazard area, a ground
elevation certification from a registered land surveyor is required before a building
permit may be issued.
A composite Hazardous Areas Map is presented on the following page.
1.3.1(b) Man -Made Hazard Areas
In the Southport -Oak Island area there are several manmade hazards including the
Carolina Power and Light nuclear facility, the Sunny Point Ocean Terminal and its
associated railroad corridor, and the Archer Daniels Midland Chemical facility. In the
northeast area of the county is the Dupont Chemical facility. The three general
purpose airstrips within the County also are potentially hazardous.
These land uses are of significant economic benefit to Brunswick County and to all of
southeastern North Carolina; even so, land uses locating near these facilities need to
be sensitive to potential associated hazards.
These manmade hazard areas are identified on the composite Hazardous Areas Map.
Airstrip locations are shown on the Community Facilities Map.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 48 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
Inadequate and unsafe road conditions, which generated considerable public
,
comment in the 1987 Plan, did not receive the same level of attention in the 1992
round of public meetings. One exception is the new bypass around Shallotte, where a
considerable number of serious accidents have occurred since the opening of this
,
new roadway. The four-laning of US 17 is also expected to reduce traffic hazards on
this major facility, especially at Grissettown and Supply. Also, NC Highway 133 is
being widened and has had several bridges replaced since the last land use plan
update.
1.3.1(c) Soil Limitations
Soil limitations are characterized by poor drainage, foundation hazards, and septic
tank
unsuitability. Distinctions can be made between areas which are characterized
t
as generally unsuitable, but within which small pockets of favorable soils do exist, as
well as areas where serious limitations are common to most of the soils present.
'
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Soil Conservation Service completed a
detailed soil survey of Brunswick County several years ago. This soil survey is useful
in providing easily accessible, detailed information on soils in the county. Unlike
development patterns, soil types are not subject to change, except over considerable
periods of time.
Basic rating categories of soil associations found in Brunswick County are defined as
follows:
Slight: Soil properties are generally favorable for the stated uses, or limitations
,
are minor and can be easily overcome.
Moderate: Some soil properties are unfavorable for development but limitations can
,
be overcome or modified by special planning, good design, and careful
management.
,
Severe: Soil properties are unfavorable and resulting limitations are too difficult to
correct or overcome. Soil will require major soil reclamation or special
design for stated uses. This rating, however, does not imply that the soil
'
cannot be used.
For more detailed descriptions of specific soil types in Brunswick County, including
their suitability for septic tanks, roads, and building development, the reader is directed
to the Brunswick County Soil Survey, available from the US Soil Conservation
Service. '
The County has employed a staff person, based in the County Engineering
Department, to serve as a Soil Scientist/Hydrologist. This person's duties include ,
determination of soil characteristics in relation to development proposals and required
permits.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 49 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Hazardous Areas Map
® Floodprone Areas
Sunny Point Buffer Zone
Ocean Hazard Areas
Municipal (Not in Planning Area)
Note: Due to map scale, this hazardous areas map Is necessarily generalized in
nature, and Is intended for general planning purposes only. Within some land areas,
for example, there may be pockets of land which should be considered floodprone.
Conversely, within the floodprone areas identified there may be pockets of high and
dry land. In these situations, more detailed, site specific information will take prece-
dence over the more generalized map, and the appropriate policies of the land use
plan document will apply.
Brunswick County
LAND USE PLAN
1992 Update
Glenn Harbeck Associates
Planning and Public Involvement
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iBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
' Causes of Septic Tank Failure
One of the most common causes of septic tank failures in Brunswick County is the
' installation of septic tank systems in soils which have seasonally high water tables.
Another cause of failure is from the presence of an impervious soil layer which can
become saturated following rainfall and retard the vertical movement of water. These
layers may be hardpans, clays, sandpans, or organic soil horizons. In Brunswick
County, these impervious layers are scattered in haphazard fashion and it is difficult to
predict their spatial arrangement. Organic soil horizons are a particularly difficult soil
structure to pinpoint because of uneven organic decomposition. As soil types, sub -soil
types, and such factors as ground water tables vary, different sized lots or different
dimensions of lots are necessary to address particular situations.
A third cause of failures are those numerous instances where septic tanks and their
' filter fields have, over the years, been permitted for developments on inadequately
sized lots (taking into consideration both total square footage and the outside
dimensions of such lots).
Prior to the NC Ground Absorption and Sewage Treatment Act of 1981 and resulting
Administrative Law, many very small lots were platted in the county. That process
' changed materially following the 1981 law. The County's new subdivision ordinance
now requires a minimum of 17,000 square feet of lot acreage if County water is
available and an absolute minimum of 7,500 square feet, regardless of what utilities
may be available.
Land Suitability Analysis
Of the County's total 558,720 acres of land (approximately 855 square miles) the
following breakdowns have been tabulated from the land suitability analysis of the
Brunswick County Soil Survey:
CATEGORY ACRES % OF TOTAL
i1. Soils with Limitations for 305,120 54.6%
Septic Tank Systems
' 2. Soils with Limitations for the 233,520 41.8
Support of Building
Foundations
3. Soils well suited for 247,000 44.3
Development
4. Soils well suited for 139,940 25.1
Agricultural Development
' 5. Soils well suited for 325,200 58.2
Forest Protection
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
It should be noted that this analysis is very broad brush in nature; soils may be
modified through site engineering, improved drainage, etc., thereby dramatically
altering their suitability for development. Also, the percentages shown do not add to
100%, due to the applicability of more than one category to a given parcel of land.
Even so, the figures do give some indication of the general character of much of the
land in coastal Brunswick County.
1.3.1(d) Potable Water Supply
The County is a major provider of potable water, with an expanding piped water
supply system serving both unincorporated and incorporated areas. Details of this
piped water supply system are further outlined in Section 1.4.1 of this Plan. The piped
water supply system is fed by a combination of treated surface and ground water.
Even so, the majority of Brunswick County residents continue to rely on non -regulated,
individual groundwater wells as a major source of potable water. Among problems
associated with wells in low lying coastal areas are salt water intrusion, brackish water
in heavy use areas, reliance upon septic tanks on the same small lots with individual
wells, and competition for such ground water among industrial, agricultural, and
residential users.
Some engineering studies have predicted that salt water infiltration of the county's
groundwater resources may occur as soon as the year 2000 in the area from the
ocean to at least U.S. 17, and along the Cape Fear River north to the general area of '
the Dupont Plant. As a result, continued expansion of the County system would
appear to be a prudent and necessary course of action.
In the five years since the 1987 Land Use Plan was adopted, the County has provided e
water distribution lines to over 10,000 lots in the more developed, unincorporated
areas of the county. ,
1.3.1(e) Areas Which Exceed 12% Slope
There are no known areas in the unincorporated area of Brunswick County with slopes i
as extreme as 12%, excepting a ravine which is undevelopable near the Cape Fear
River.
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1 Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
1 1.3.2 FRAGILE AREAS
' Fragile areas are those areas which could be easily damaged or destroyed by
inappropriate or poorly planned development. Some of these sensitive lands have
been designated by the Coastal Resources Commission as Areas of Environmental
Concern (AEC's). Special consideration is to be given regarding their use.
This section of the Plan describes the significance and location f g o fragile areas located
within Brunswick County's planning jurisdiction. These sensitive areas are identified
on the Fragile Areas Map, which is presented on the next page. Policies regarding
land use in, or adjacent to, fragile areas are outlined in Sections 2.1.2 and 2.1.3.
' Of special note in this round of land use plan updates is the availability of cost -share
matching grant funds which may be available to local governments in North Carolina
to finance inventories of natural areas and rare species. The funds are available
through the North Carolina Heritage Program, administered by Planning Division,
Division of Parks and Recreation, Raleigh. (Contact: Frank Boteler at [phone].
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In addition, owners of fragile land areas may wish to take advantage of the tax benefits
of donating land for conservation purposes. Senate Bill 405, ratified in 1989,
increased the maximum income tax credit to 25% of the fair market value of the
donated interest in the land, up to a maximum of $25,000. (previously limited to a
maximum of $5,000). Complete information is available from the Wilmington regional
office of the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (919) 395-
3900.
Areas of Environmental Concern (AFC's)
The Coastal Area Management Act of North Carolina calls for the identification of
certain environmentally fragile and important land and water areas that are judged to
be of greater than local significance. The Coastal Resources Commission, in
cooperation with local governments in the 20-county coastal area, has developed a
program of permit review and coordination within areas of environmental concern
(AEC's). Essentially, special CAMA permits are required of all developments within
designated AEC's. The intent of the regulatory program is not to stop development,
but rather to insure compatibility of development with the continued productivity and
value of certain critical land and water areas.
There are four broad categories of AEC's:
- Estuarine Systems
- Ocean Hazard Areas Systems
- Public Water Supplies
- Natural and Cultural Resource Areas
Each of these broad AEC categories is discussed in greater detail in the paragraphs
that follow.
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
1.3.2(a) Estuarine Systems AEC's
The estuarine system of Brunswick County consists of all estuarine waters, coastal
wetlands, public trust areas and estuarine shorelines. In general, the estuarine system
is defined by all of the salt and brackish inland waters and adjacent land areas of the
County.
Coastal Wetlands AEC's
These are the marshes, subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including
normal wind tides. Brunswick County contains numerous salt water marshes and
brackish marshes along its rivers and along the Intracoastal Waterway. It is the
objective of the State and County to safeguard and perpetuate the biological, social,
economic, and aesthetic value of these marshes as a natural resource essential to the
functioning of the estuarine system. Accordingly, State administrative law defines
suitable and unsuitable uses.
Estuarine Water AEC's
Estuarine waters have previously been defined as "all the water of the Atlantic Ocean
within the boundary of North Carolina, and all the water of the bays, sounds, rivers,
and tributaries thereto, seaward of the dividing line between coastal fishing waters and
inland fishing waters." (15 NCAC3F.0200) Another way of defining estuarine waters is
to say that estuaries are semi -enclosed coastal water bodies having free connection
with the open sea and within which seawater is measurably diluted with fresh water
drained from the adjacent land. The estuarine water AEC's of Brunswick County are
associated with the Intracoastal Waterway and the southern sections of the Cape Fear,
Shallotte, and Lockwood Folly rivers.
Public Trust AEC's
Public trust AEC's are all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder, from
the mean high water mark to the seaward limit of State jurisdiction; all natural bodies
of water subject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean high
water mark; all navigable natural bodies of water and lands thereunder to the mean
high water level or mean water level, as the case may be, except privately owned
lakes, to which the public has no right of access; all water in artificially created bodies
of water containing significant public fishing resources or other public resources which
are accessible to the public by navigation from bodies of water in which the public has
rights of navigation; and all waters in artificially created bodies of water in which the
public has acquired rights by a prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other
means.
In considering development on any body of water in Brunswick County, it is best to
presume that the water is in the public trust unless otherwise specifically documented.
The Intracoastal Waterway is the major Public Trust AEC in Brunswick County.
Development which would block or impair existing navigation channels, increase
shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide, cause adverse water
Brunswick County Planning Board page 53 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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Fragile Areas Map
Estuarine & Freshwater Systems
Green Swamp
Wildlife Management Areas
Bear Sanctuar
y
Ocean Hazard Areas
Municipal(Not in Planning Area)
Note: Due to map scale, this map is necessarily generalized in nature, and is Intended
for general informational purposes only.
Brunswick County
LAND USE PLAN
1992 Update
Glenn Harbeck Associates
Planning and Public Involvement
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
circulation patterns, violate water quality standards, or cause degradation of shellfish
waters is considered incompatible with public trust areas.
' Estuarine Shorelines
Estuarine shorelines, although treated ostensibly as dry land, are considered a
' component of the estuarine system because of the close association with the adjacent
estuarine waters. Estuarine shorelines are those non -ocean shorelines which are
especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse effects of wind and water,
' and are intimately connected to the estuary. This area extends from the mean high
water level of normal water level along the estuaries, sounds, bays, and brackish
waters for a distance of 75' landward. It is useful to emphasize that where the range of
saltwater influence on freshwater streams ends is also the approximate location where
the estuarine shoreline AEC also ends.
' Because of the direct proximity, development in this area has a great influence on the
quality of the estuaries and is also subject to the damaging processes of shoreline
erosion and flooding. Accordingly, the State has defined standards for development
' which take into consideration the dynamics of the shoreline and the resources
associated with estuarine waters. These standards are to insure that development
does not have an adverse impact on the estuarine system.
1.3.2(b) Ocean Hazard Area AEC's
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These are natural hazard areas along the ocean shoreline where, because of their
special vulnerability to erosion or other adverse effects of sand, wind, and water,
uncontrolled or incompatible development could unreasonably endanger life or
property. Such areas include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas
where there is a substantial possibility of excessive erosion or flood damage.
It is the objective of the State and County to provide management policies and
standards for such areas that serve to eliminate unreasonable danger to life and
property. A balance must also be achieved among the financial, safety, and social
factors involved in this type of development.
Types of Ocean Hazard Areas Are:
Ocean erodible areas —these are areas in which there exists a substantial possibility
of excessive erosion and significant shoreline fluctuation.
High hazard flood areas —this is the area subject to high velocity waters in a storm
having a one percent chance of being equalled or exceeded in any given year, as
identified as Zone VI-30 on federal flood insurance rate maps.
Inlet hazard areas —these are areas with a substantial possibility of excessive erosion,
located adjacent to inlets. The State sets use standards for ocean hazard areas by
administrative law. The State further: requires erosion control activities, dune
establishment and stabilization, sets standards for structural accessways, and
new/substantial construction standards in ocean hazard areas.
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
The Ocean Hazard Areas designated within Brunswick County are, for the most part,
within the municipalities' jurisdictions. The only exception to this is the extreme
eastern tip of Oak Island. This area contains Fort Caswell and is owned by the North
Carolina Baptist Assembly. Only limited public access is allowed.
1.3.2(c) Public Water Supply AEC's
Small Surface Water Supply Watershed AEC's
Small surface water supply watersheds are catchment areas situated entirely within
the coastal area, classified by the North Carolina Environmental Management
Commission as Class A -II, which means that the maximum beneficial use is that of a
public water supply.
Classification of streams and rivers is an ongoing process by the State. When a
stream is Class A -II, no ground absorption sewage disposal systems may be located
within 100 feet of the water, a National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) is required, and the standards of the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution
Control Act of 1973 must be met. There are no such designated areas in Brunswick
County.
Public Water Supply Well Field AEC's
Public water supply well fields are areas of well -drained sands that extend downward
from the surface into shallow ground water supplies. The North Carolina Department
of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources has identified such areas. There are
standards to be met on any development over such a well field. There are no such
designated areas in Brunswick County.
1.3.2(d) Natural and Cultural Resource AEC's
This fourth category of AEC's covers areas containing environmental, natural, or
cultural resources of more than local significance. State Administrative Law (15 NCAC
7H.0503) provides a nomination and designation process for any site to be declared
this type of AEC.
Coastal Complex Natural Areas and Coastal Areas that Sustain Remnant
Species AEC's
Coastal complex natural areas are lands that support native plant and animal
communities and provide habitat qualities which have remained essentially
unchanged by human activity. These areas function as key biological enclaves for a
variety of natural species. They may be surrounded by landscape that has been
modified but does not drastically alter conditions within the natural area.
Coastal areas that sustain remnant species are areas that support native plants or
animals determined to be rare or endangered. The objective is to protect habitat
Brunswick County Planning Board page 55 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
conditions necessary to the continued survival of threatened and endangered native
plants and animals.
Although no areas in Brunswick County have been officially designated in this
category of AEC, there are many such areas in the County. Several years ago the
' North Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Community Development, (now
the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources) Division of Parks and
Recreation, National Heritage Program compiled detailed information on these areas,
a summary of which is available at the Brunswick County Planning Department.
Unique Coastal Geologic Formation AEC's
' No unique coastal geological formations have been identified by State geologists in
Brunswick County.
' Significant Coastal Archaeological Resource AEC's
Significant coastal archaeological resources are sites, objects, or features evaluated
' by the NC Historical Commission that have more than local significance to history or
prehistory.
' Brunswick County has a large number of archaeological sites. The great majority of
these sites have not been excavated nor has the county been systematically surveyed.
However, 172 prehistoric sites have been identified and entered into the State's
prehistoric file inventory maintained by the Department of Cultural Resources and the
Archeology Branch section.
The majority of these sites consist of surface scatters whose cultural affiliation has not
been identified. A number of midden mounds, which were areas of discard and
refuse, have also been noted.
In addition to the prehistoric sites, there are a number of known shipwrecks in the
Cape Fear River.
' Significant Coastal Architectural Resources
' The following inventory includes a description of the more significant historic sites
found throughout Brunswick County (not including Southport, for which a separate
inventory has been compiled).
HISTORIC SITES/FRAGILE AREAS
1. Williams House
' 2. Belvedere Plantation
3. Railroad Hotel
4. Winnabow Plantation
5. Clarendon Plantation
6. Olde Town Plantation
7. Pleasant Oaks Plantation
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8. Orton Plantation
9. Brunswick Town (Fort Anderson, St. Phillips Church)
10. Battery Lamb and Saltworks
11. Price's Creek Lighthouse
12. "The Rock's" (structure gone)
13. Quarantine Station (structure gone)
14. Fort Caswell
15. Gause's Tomb
16. Hickory Hall
17. Bald Head Lighthouse
18. Cape Fear Lighthouse Complex
19. Goodman Family House
20. W. H. Walker House
21. Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery
22. Concord Methodist Church
23. Sunny Side School
24. Bethel United Methodist Church
25. USCG Station at Oak Island
Many of these structures no longer stand. The old USCG Station at Oak Island is
presently scheduled to be demolished. Some of the plantations ceased activities 150
years ago. Detailed descriptions of some of the more significant sites are available
from the Brunswick County Planning Department.
1.3.2(e) Fragile Land Areas
Areas listed in this section include important natural or manmade sites which do not
conveniently fit into previously listed AEC categories, yet are still deemed to be
development constraints because of their importance. The County regards these
areas to be no less significant than those officially designated.
Freshwater Swamps and Marshes
Brunswick County has thousands of acres of private and public freshwater swamps
and marshes. Most notable is the Green Swamp, which is the predominant land/water
feature in the north central area of the county. Other important swamp and marsh
areas which should be protected are the Big Cypress Bay and Ponds, Orton Pond,
Spring Creek Pond, and numerous swamps and marshes associated with the Cape
Fear, Town Creek, Lockwood Folly, Shallotte, Calabash and Waccamaw Rivers.
Maritime Forest
While there are no traditional maritime -'forests located in that portion of the
unincorporated area under Brunswick County's jurisdiction, some sections of land on
the north side of the intracoastal waterway have elements of maritime forest, related
perhaps, to the period of time before the intracoastal waterway separated these areas
from their adjacent oceanfront land areas.
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1.3.3 AREAS WITH RESOURCE POTENTIAL
' Areas with resource potential include productive and unique agricultural land,
valuable mineral sites, private sanctuaries, public recreation lands, and other non -
intensive recreational uses.
' 1.3.3(a) Productive and Unique Agricultural Land
The Governor's Executive Order 96, Conservation of Prime Agricultural and Forests,
' sets forth the State's policy of providing for the conservation of soil to promote the
efficient production and utilization of soil ... and to conserve natural resources. The
order directed each county's Soil and Water Conservation Commission to work closely
with the respective county Soil and Water Conservation Districts to develop a map of
prime agricultural and forest lands in their respective jurisdictions.
' Soils that should be considered prime farmland, soils which are locally important, and
soils that are unique to specific locations have been identified for Brunswick County;
this information is available from the S & W Conservation District Soil Scientist in map
form.
Prime farmland contains soils best suited for producing food, feed, fiber, forage and
oilseed crops. They are economically productive for all major crops common to the
county. They are not excessively erodible or saturated with water for long periods of
time. Soils categorized as prime in Brunswick County are Foreston, Goldsboro, Johns,
' Norfolk, and Onslow.
Locally important farmland has characteristics which cannot meet the requirements of
prime soil designation but may produce economically satisfactory results, depending
on their setting and the management practices employed. These soils may be
naturally wet and lack adequate internal drainage. Soils falling into this category are
' Baymeade, Blanton, Croatan, Grifton, Lynchburg, Pactolus, Pantego, Rains,
Tomahawk, Torhunta, Wando, and Woodington.
' In addition, certain soils have been designated as unique. This farmland is sometimes
used for the production of a specific crop that may not be produced on a general basis
in the area. Blueberries are a crop with special soil requirements that are unique to
' the county. The soils with these qualities are Leon Fine Sand and Murville Mucky Fine
Sand.
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AGRICULTURAL LANDS
PRIME FARMLAND SOILS
'
Foreston 26,692 acres
Goldsboro 29,830 acres
Johns 3,116 acres
Onslow 3,439 acres
'
Norfolk 12,521 acres
75,598 acres
,
LOCALLY IMPORTANT FARMLAND SOILS
Baymeade 55,973 acres
'
Blanton 16,127 acres
Croatan 3,533 acres
Grifton 22,023 acres
Lynchburg 19,991 acres
'
Pactolus 47,771 acres
Pantago 8,305 acres
Rains 35,619 acres
Tomahawk 4,975 acres
'
Torhunta 3,994 acres
Wando 12,176 acres
Woodington 29,703 acres
260,190 acres
UNIQUE LAND SOILS
'
Leon Fine Sand 45,611 acres
Murville Mucky Fine Sand 39,490 acres
Q
Total 85,101 acres
It should be noted that these figures tend to exaggerate the amount of land actually
,
available for farming in Brunswick County. Many of these soils are located in areas
which are impractical to farm because of access, high water table levels, or other
reasons.
,
1.3.3(b) Valuable Mineral Sites
,
No known valuable mineral deposits exist in Brunswick County. Sand is sometimes
extracted for construction applications. There are some scattered deposits of gravel
and Coquina, but the feasibility of mining is not known.
1.3.3(c) Private Sanctuaries
The Nature Conservancy owns 15,814 acres of land within the Green Swamp. The
Conservancy is a private organization dedicated to the preservation of unique natural
areas. It is the intent of the Conservancy that the area will remain free from
development .
'
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Various large private landholdings are 'de facto" gamelands by virtue of their isolation
and general inaccessibility. (These areas are mainly owned by timber companies).
The Orton Plantation and Pond is another major private landholding in Brunswick
County which contains natural areas uniquely suited for wildlife habitat.
While clearly not a private sanctuary, the community of Boiling Spring Lakes (17,000+
acres) has much of its territory taken up by land which is not suited for development.
The State has also designated a Game Land/Bear Sanctuary within Brunswick
County. The Bear Sanctuary is one of 28 designated areas within the State designed
to promote the preservation of the species. Bear hunting is prohibited inside the
Sanctuary. Major private sanctuaries are identified on the Fragile Areas Map.
1.3.3(d) Public Recreation Land
The area north of the municipal limits of Bald head Island to the New Hanover County
line is owned entirely by the State of North Carolina. This land form separates the
Cape Fear River from the Atlantic Ocean. (The word "land" is somewhat misleading as
the areas consists of marsh, water, and small islands).
Within this area are several different management and administrative jurisdictions.
The area adjacent to the New Hanover County line is now part of the National
Estuarine Sanctuary Program. This is a federal program (Section 315 of the Coastal
Zone Management Act) which provides the acquisition, development or operation of
areas "to serve as natural field laboratories in which to study and gather data on the
natural and human processes in the coastal region and man's effect on them."
The Zeke's Island sanctuary is located in New Hanover and Brunswick Counties,
encompassing approximately 1,165 acres of upland, intertidal, and shallow water
areas. 178.8 upland acres of the site were donated to the State of North Carolina in
1981 as the initial component of North Carolina's National Estuarine Sanctuary. The
area is managed primarily as an educational and research site, though compatible
recreational uses are allowed.
For further information regarding the Zeke's Island sanctuary, contact the Marine
Sanctuary Program, Division of Coastal Management in Raleigh.
The area south of Zeke's Island sanctuary consists of about 10,000 acres of marsh and
approximately 1,000 acres of upland. At last report, this area was being administered
by several State agencies. The majority of this area is administered by the
Department of Parks and Recreation. The Wildlife Resources Commission and the
Division of Marine Fisheries combine regulatory and enforcement jurisdiction.
Battery Island and Striking Island have been leased by the State to the Audubon
Society for fifty year periods.
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The spit of land above New Inlet is located in Brunswick County and is part of the Fort
Fisher State Historic Site. This area is administered by the Department of Cultural
Resources and regulations are enforced by the Division of Parks and Recreation.
1.3.3(e) Other Non -intensive Recreational Uses
All of the navigable waters in the county are publicly owned. (Hence, their designation
as Public Trust Waters.) They are used for commercial and recreational fishing,
swimming, and boating.
Also, all the beach below mean high tide is owned by the State, as is any land raised
through beach nourishment projects.
In recent years, numerous semi -private and private golf courses have been developed
in Brunswick County. Nearly all of these courses are being built in the area of the
county between U.S. 17 and the intracoastal waterway. Most have been built in
conjunction with single family residential developments. There are currently twenty or
more 18-hole or larger golf courses in Brunswick County, with more under
construction.
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1.4 Constraints; Carrying Capacity Analysis
As discussed in the preceding section, the suitability of land for development presents
one set of constraints on the future growth of Brunswick County. These mostly natural
constraints are largely beyond the control of man, without considerable and often
costly modification of the land resource.
A second set of constraints, however, has to do with local governments' ability to
provide and pay for community facilities and services in the face of continued growth.
While such ability is linked to some degree to the natural systems upon which certain
facilities (such as water) depend, the provision of such facilities and services is more a
function of conscious decisions on the part of local governments as to whether such
services are needed, who will pay for them, how and when.
1 1.4.1 POTABLE WATER SYSTEM
After years of study, the County entered the water business on a fairly large scale in
1974, establishing a water treatment plant served by a well field, located about two
miles west of the Southport -Oak Island area, on NC 211. Trunk mains were provided
so that this plant served the Southport area, the rapidly developing unincorporated
area related both to Southport and to Oak Island, and Caswell Beach, Long Beach
and Yaupon Beach on Oak Island, and then via trunk main under the Lockwood Folly
Inlet to Holden Beach.
That system was upgraded in 1980 so that the so-called "NC 211" plant is today
capable of producing six million gallons of potable water per day.
Starting in 1981, a major expansion of the system began, funded by a $37 million
general obligation bond approved by the County's voters. Initially trunk mains, with
necessary booster pumping stations and water tanks, were extended northerly from
Holden Beach via NC 130 through the heavily developed area between the Lockwood
Folly and Shallotte Rivers to and through Shallotte. From Shallotte, the lines continued
on via NC 179 through the rapidly developing southwestern sector of the County all
the way through Calabash to a point just shy of the South Carolina state line. Today,
the County system serves the Towns of Shallotte, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach,
Holden Beach, Yaupon Beach, Long Beach and Caswell Beach.
It should be noted that the main source of water for the County system was changed in
the early 1980s. The County made an "up front" loan of $7,000,000 to the Lower Cape
Fear Water and Sewer Authority to permit that agency to undertake a regional project.
As a result, the principal source of water became the Cape Fear River, from an intake
located above Lock No. 1 in Bladen County. From there, raw water is pumped through
a 48" trunk main through Columbus County into Brunswick County, where it connects
with the main water treatment plant in the northwest area of the County. This 24 million
gallon per day water treatment plant opened at Hoods Creek in 1989 with an
extensive additional network of trunk mains.
From this 24 MGD plant (capable of expansion to 48 MGD), 48" trunk mains extend,
then 42", then 36", and in some cases, then down to 24", running in varying directions.
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These trunk mains cut through the northeastern portion of the county and provide a
connecting point for the Leland Sanitary District on Mount Misery Road. They then run
via the Sunny Point Railroad right-of-way, then southwesterly on U.S. 17 to connect
into the system in Shallotte, and southerly to connect into the original plant on NC 211
in the Southport -Oak Island area.
In addition, the County adopted a Water Distribution Systems Policy regarding new
developments in 1984. As a result, over 100 subdivisions have installed and
dedicated to the County, water distribution systems to serve these new areas. Some
10,000+ lots in
the County are currently served by the Water System.
In July of 1989, the total median daily demand from all customers tied into the County
system was 3.7 million gallons (p. 6, Water Distribution System Master Plan,
Brunswick County, 1990).
Plans for Expansion
In September of 1990, work was completed on a new Water Distribution System
Master Plan. Prepared for Brunswick County by the engineering firm of William G.
Daniel and Associates, the report analyzed the current distribution system, projected
future water consumption, and recommended improvements to the system for action
by 1991, 1995 and 2010. The following are relevant excerpts from the System Master
,
Plan, for each of the target years, in reverse order:
Year 2010 System Recommendations
For the year 2010, a 24" line is recommended along NC 133 from Leland Industrial
Park to NC 87 just above the Sunny Point Pump Station. It should connect to the
existing 36" line below the Leland tank via US 74/76.
A line along NC 211 between the 211 Water Plant and US 17 is proposed. This line's
diameter is 24" at the plant but can be reduced to 16" at Midway Road (SR 1500). A
16" line connecting NC 211 with Long Beach is also recommended. A 12" line along
Stone Chimney Road (SR 1115) from NC 211 to the existing line in Sabbath Home
Road (SR 1120) is necessary. The final waterline proposed for this portion of the
County is a 16" line from US 17 to NC 130 storage tank near the intersection of NC
130 (Holden Beach Road) and Sabbath Home Road will be needed to supplement the
existing Holden Beach tank.
The portion of the County below Shallotte will require several new waterlines. One is a
24" main along US 17 from Shallotte to Ocean Isle Beach Road (SR 1184) which
continues on down US 17 to Thomasboro as a 20" diameter line. South from
Thomasboro along SR 1165 to Clariday Road (SR 1164), a 20" line is recommended.
From there a 16" line is proposed for Clariday Road, where it will connect with the
existing main in NC 179. It is also recommended that a new 12" line be installed
parallel to the existing 8" line in NC 179 down to Pump Station No. 5. Finally, two
connections between US 17 and NC 179 will also be necessary, a 20" line along
Ocean Isle Beach Road (SR 1184) and a 12" one down NC 904.
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In addition to the proposed lines through this portion of the County, a 0.5 million gallon
elevated tank should be erected in the vicinity of the NC 904/NC 179 intersection.
1995 System Recommendations
If Brunswick County's population increases as anticipated, the following portions of the
proposed 2010 improvements will be required by 1995:
The 12" line down Stone Chimney Road (SR 1115) from NC 211 to the existing 12"
waterline in Sabbath Home Road (SR 1120).
—That portion of the 16" waterline down NC 211 from US 17 to the above line in
Stone Chimney Road.
The 16" line from US 17 to NC 130 via Mt. Pisgah Road (SR 1130) and Civietown
Road (SR 1132), and
—A 20" waterline between US 17 and NC 179 along Ocean Isle Beach Road (SR
1184).
No new booster pump stations or storage tanks will be required in 1995.
Please note that the above recommendations assume that those facilities in the
Shallotte to Calabash area (proposed for construction in 1991) are already in service.
These will be discussed in the following section.
The proposed US 17 line will become the main artery for serving the beach front areas
via connections to NC 179 along Ocean Isle Beach Road, NC 179, and Thomasboro
Road. If Pump Station No. 4 is left in operation, it will reduce the amount of water
carried down NC 904 and Ocean Isle Beach Road by raising the pressure along NC
179. The additional water which will be conveyed down NC 179 from Shallotte as a
result of No. 4 remaining in operation will create large friction losses above No. 4 and
cause significantly lower pressures through that reach. Therefore, system performance
will be enhanced by Pump Station No. 4 being off-line.
The engineers then considered several different scenarios for system improvements in
conjunction with the above recommendations. The proposed "Alternate 5" was then
selected and is described as follows:
Construct the US 17 line to Thomasboro, continue with a line to Calabash along
Thomasboro Road, also install the line from US 17 to NC 179 down NC 904, and
reverse Pump Station No. 5, but do not build an elevated tank.
Construction of the recommended 1991 improvements is underway.
Major water system trunk lines, both existing and proposed, are shown on the
Community Facilities Map found at the end of this section (page 77a).
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
1.4.2 SEWER AND STORM DRAINAGE
Brunswick County is wrestling with what many local leaders see as the number one
constraint to development, that of sewage treatment. The county's relatively sparse
development patterns make the provision of a single, centralized sewage treatment
system unworkable. Areas where there are concentrations of small lots or higher
density
development (such as near the beach communities) offer some possibilities,
however. As a result, there are several local area initiatives underway which would
seek to address this problem.
At Calabash, for example, work is nearing sewage on a completion stud for a
p 9 Y
centralized facility to serve that town. The Town of Sunset Beach is also nearing
completion
on a sewage study and it hopes to move forward within the next couple of
years toward a system to serve that community. The Town of Shallotte also expanded
its sewage treatment capacity in the past five years. At Ocean Isle Beach, a relatively
new sewer is
system currently in service. Holden Beach has studied the issue for
several years but has apparently not been able to reach a consensus on the subject.
Yaupon Beach recently developed its own system which is reportedly under
construction.
The Town of Southport expanded its sewage treatment plant during the past five years
and has plenty of capacity available at the present time. Just west of Southport, the
Southeastern Sanitary District is moving actively toward a centralized sewage system
for that part of the county and is in pursuit of loans and grants from FmHA. In the
northeast part of the county, the towns of Leland and Belville are each working toward
sewage treatment systems for their respective areas. Finally, the County undertook its
first activity in the provision of a public waste water treatment plant and service about
five years ago. This was in connection with a new county -owned industrial park. The
plant was completed and placed in service in 1987.
It should be noted that the County sewer system at the Leland Industrial Park is a
modular, package system capable of easy expansion. The treatment plant is located
adjacent to the receiving stream, the Cape Fear River, provides 24-hour hydraulic
detention time for the 250,000 gpd design flow, and is capable of meeting the 30
mg/effluent limits for biochemical oxygen demand and suspended solids respectively.
The system has a 4.5 mile 8" sewer main. It is currently (1992) operating at about ten
percent of capacity. Each of the various sewer service areas, whether existing or
proposed, is shown on the Community Facilities Map, found at the end of this section
(page 77a).
Through its water management program and, more particularly, through its newly
revised subdivision review and approval program, the County has recently improved
its capabilities regarding the proper design of new storm drainage facilities. However,
no storm water management master plan has been prepared for the County and none ,
is being considered. As certain portions of the County become more densely
developed, and adverse impacts on the County's estuarine waters increase, a
comprehensive storm water master plan may be necessary.
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1.4.3 TRANSPORTATION
1.4.3(a) Public Roads
Brunswick County had 620 miles of paved public roads and 156 miles of unpaved
L public roads as of January 1991 (the most recent date for which figures were
available). For comparison, at the time of the last Land Use Plan Update in 1987, there
were 587 miles of paved public roads and 166 miles of unpaved public roads in the
County. There is a considerable undetermined amount of unpaved private subdivision
roads that have yet to be upgraded and added to the state secondary road system.
During public meetings, a continuing concern voiced by County residents was the
numerous inadequate and unsafe roadways within the County. Because of the high
volume of seasonal visitation to the beach areas, certain roads are carrying excessive
amounts of traffic.
In October and November of 1987, just prior to certification of the last Land Use Plan
Update by the CRC, a new Thoroughfare Plan for Brunswick County was adopted by
the County and its municipalities. Following local adoption, the plan was then adopted
by the NC DOT in February of 1988. Preparation of the plan involved a cooperative
effort of the Thoroughfare Planning Unit, Planning and Research Branch, Division of
Highways, NC Department of Transportation, and a County -wide Thoroughfare Plan
Coordinating Committee, made up of representatives of numerous local governments
and Chambers of Commerce in Brunswick County. The following are excerpts of the
major findings and recommendations of the Thoroughfare Plan:
Major Objectives
The highway system in Brunswick County has primarily two important functions; they
are as follows:
1. To serve the ever increasing north -south traffic through the county.
2. To serve the increasing demand for access to the beach areas.
Road Capacity Problems:
1 An analysis of highways in Brunswick County was made to determine if the projected
traffic (year 2005) would exceed the practical capacity of the system. Comparing the
projected traffic to available capacities, it was anticipated that the following roads
would be experiencing capacity related problems within the design period (1988-
2005):
1. US 17 - from NC 87 (Bell Swamp) to NC 211 (Supply).
2. US 17 - from Supply to South Carolina County Line.
3. US 17-74-76 - from New Hanover County Line to Brunswick River.
4. NC 133 - from Oak Island Bridge to NC 211.
5. NC 133 - from NC 211 to NC 87.
6. NC 87 - from NC 211, 87 (Southport) to Sunny Point Access Road.
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Beyond simple capacity deficiencies, the Thoroughfare Plan also evaluated roads in
the county according to a variety of economic, environmental, cost, and overall system
contribution factors. As a result of this full analysis, the Plan recommended fifteen road
improvement projects, as listed in the table which follows. These fifteen were then
placed in three priority groups in order of probable need. By way of an update, the
status of each project is shown in the column to the far right of the table.
ROAD IMPROVEMENT PRIORITIES AND COST ESTIMATES (1987 DOLLARS)
1988 THOROUGHFARE PLAN
BRUNSWICK COUNTY
ROUTE AND SECTION
RECOMMENDED CROSS
TOTAL
Transportation
SECTION
COST
Improvement
($1,000)
Plan
STATUS'
1993-1999
PRIORITY
1. US 17 ---Bell Swamp to Supply
4 Lanes Divided, Rural ____2_f_,300.
om lete
2. US 17 - US 74, 76 to Bell
4 Lanes Divided, Freeway
12,80
Complete
Swam
3. US 17 - Supply to ha Otte
4 Lanes Divided, Rural
8,400.
Under Contract
Bypass
4. US 17 - Shallotte Bypass
4 Lanes Divided, Freeway
13,300.
Complete
5. US 17 - Bolivia ass
4 Lanes Divided, Freeway
19,500.
om lete
6. US 17 - Shallotte Bypass to
4 Lanes Divided, Rural
15,300.
Under Contract
S.C. Line
7. US 74, 76 - New Hanover Co.
6 Lanes Divided, Rura
15,000.
Not in TIP
Line to US 17
Freeway
8. -40 Loop Extension
4 Lanes Divided, Freeway
39,800.
Construct Start
1996
PRI IT 2
9. NC 211 - NC 133 to NG 211/87
4 Lanes Divided, Urban
21700.
Not in TIP
Junction
Boulevard
10. NC 133 - Dosher uto
4 Lanes Divided, Urban
2,000.
Not in TIP
Relocation
Boulevard
11. NC 87 - SPAT. Access Rd. to
5 Lanes, Urban
3,800.
Not in TIP
NC 211/87 Junction
PRIORITY 3
12. SR 1122 Connector to
2 Lanes, Rural
15,000.
Not in TIP
South ort
13. SR 1500 Connector to SR
2 Lanes, Rural
8,900.
Not in TIP
1190, Long Beach
14. S R 1163 Connector to 1 9
2 Lanes, Rural
4,9007
of in TIP
15. NC 179 Realignment
2 Lanes,-Flural
800.
Not in TIP
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rvum* v.osi vawes are estimates used in the pianrnng stage and are not to be used as actual construction costs. e
'Source: Annual Report, NC DOT Transportation Improvement Program 1993-99, plus personal and telephone
interviews with DOT officials in Wilmington and Raleigh, September 4,1992.
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BRIDGE DEFICIENCIES AND REPLACEMENT PRIORITIES
Factors which are indicative of bridge sufficiency include, structural design adequacy
and safety, traffic safety, serviceability, location of structure, functional obsolescence
and essentially for public use.
The 1988 Thoroughfare Plan identified some 46 deficient bridges located on routes
included in the plan (pp. 39-40). Of these 46 bridges, the Plan identified 15 for priority
improvement. The locations, estimated costs and status of each of these projects is
shown in the table following.
IMPROVEMENT PRIORITIES FOR DEFICIENT BRIDGES IN BRUNSWICK COUNTY
IDENTIFIED IN 1988 THOROUGHFARE PLAN
PRIORITY I
ESTIMATED
REPLACEMENT COST
(in 1987 dollars)
—Transportation
Improvement Plan
STATUS*
1993-1999
1. SR 1435 9 Sturgeon Creek
7,000
Construct in 1998
2. SR 1426Hook Greek
310,000
Construct in 1998
3. NC 130 @ Bear Branch
157,000
Construct in 1995
4. SR 15219 Rice's Creek
193,000
onstruct in 1993
5. NC 211 9 Branch of Biq SwamD172,000
Not in TIP
6. NC 130 Wet Ash Swamp
183,000
Construct in 1997
7. SR 1500 9 Br. River Swamp
158,000
Not in TIP
8. SR 1500 CED River Swamp Creek
286,000
Not in TIP
9. NG 904 9 Scippeo Swa-mp
249,000--Construct
in 1997
10. SR 1432 Mill Creek
202,000
Not in TIP
11. SR 1411 @ Br. Town Creek
267,000
Not in TIP
12. SR 141 T-9 Town reek
267,000
Not in TIP
13. SR 1410 Lewis Greek
112,000
Not in TIP
14. SR 1518 @ Mills Creek
162,000
Not in TIP
15. NC 2119 Branch of Juniper Creek
172,000
Not in TIP
TOTAL
,337,600
'Source: Annual Report, NC DOT Transportation Improvement Program 1993-99, plus personal and telephone
interviews with DOT officials in Wilmington and Raleigh, September 4,1992.
OTHER ISSUES
In addition to the above mentioned bridge replacement priorities, discussions continue
regarding: (1) the need for a new high-rise bridge at Sunset Beach to replace the
existing older bridge and (2) the need for an additional bridge serving the South/West
end of Oak Island. Also, at the time of this writing, (9/22/92) design modifications and
improvements to the new bypass around Shallotte have been approved, due to a
number of accidents having occurred there since the facility was opened.
The County has consistently supported these three needs.
The Community Facilities Map shows existing thoroughfares within the County as well
as proposed major thoroughfare improvements recommended in the 1988
Thoroughfare Plan.
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1.4.3(b) Air Transportation
There are two publicly owned general aviation airports in the county. One is known as
the Brunswick County Airport. It is operated by the Airport Commission, whose
membership is named by the County Commissioners and several municipal Town
Boards. This facility is situated on the mainland across from Oak Island.
During the early 1980's, a Master Plan for this airport was developed, and approved
by the County, by the North Carolina Aeronautics Council, and by the US Federal
Aviation Administration. Significant improvements have been provided with County
funding, and a new terminal building has been built. Also in the early 1980s, the
County Planning Department prepared an Airport Zoning Ordinance, which was
adopted and is being enforced through joint actions of the Airport Manager and the
County's Building Inspections Division.
The Ocean Isle Beach Airport, owned by that municipality, is located on the mainland
d
across from that island. During the 1980s, an Airport Zoning Ordinance was prepared
by the County Planning Department and is in effect, being enforced jointly by the Town
Airport Commissioner and the County's Building Inspections Division. An updated
Master Plan for that facility was completed in 1987-88.
There are several privately owned airstrips in different locations around the County,
the largest being the "Winnabow International Airport." It has less than ten home -
based aircraft, and a large paved and lighted runway. Most other airstrips are grassed
'
rather than paved facilities.
The County is an active supporter of the two publicly owned general aviation facilities
in the County, both by financial participation and through the development of plans
and ordinances. The locations of the three major airstrips within the County are shown
on the Community Facilities Map.
1.4.4 LAW ENFORCEMENT
Law enforcement for Brunswick County is provided by the County's Sheriff's
Department and local municipal police forces. The Sheriff's Department currently has
24 hour service with 49 personnel and 37 vehicles. As the county's population
continues to increase, it is anticipated that the resources of this vital public service will
also be increased.
1.4.5 FIRE AND RESCUE
For many years, the County has been the prime source of funds for operation and
maintenance of some 20 fire departments and 9 rescue squads, both in the
unincorporated areas and also in municipalities.
For example, as early as the 1960s, the County underwrote the mortgages these
agencies took on for purposes of erecting buildings.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 69 Glenn Harbeck Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
The current FY 91-92 County budget provides further evidence of this commitment.
For each of the 20 fire departments totally within the county, whether they limit their
service to their municipality, provide service only to a specified unincorporated area, or
provide a combined service, a $13,500 direct grant is provided (up from $10,000"In 87-
88). In addition, on the basis of the five Electoral Districts, $50,000 in each of the five
such Districts is set aside for fire and/or rescue services, individual judgments to be
made during the course of the fiscal year by the Board of County Commissioners as to
distribution of those funds.
An additional fire department, whose service area is 90% in Columbus County and
10% in Brunswick County, was granted $2,500 and also is eligible to seek some share
of the $50,000 set -aside funds in that Electoral District.
Further, each of the 10 rescue squads in the county received a $13,500 appropriation
(also up from 10,000 in 87-88), and they also are eligible to seek some share of the
set -aside funds.
Fire and rescue services, service areas, and operations are coordinated by the County
■ Fire Marshal, who is also the Emergency Management Coordinator. The result is a
s coordinated, unified network, all of which is related to and part of the
communication/telephone system at the County Government Center. It should be
noted that as of April, 1992 a new 911 system came on line, with all major emergency
service communications housed in a single new building.
The County continues to work with these various departments and squads towards
possible future adjustments, all with the idea of providing improved service. In 1987,
service area distances officially acknowledged at the State level for fire departments
ranged from 1.5 miles to 3.0 miles. With the County water system in place, however,
some of these service areas have been extended to serve a five mile radius, and
consolidation/merger of some of these departments is a long-range goal. It should
also be noted that some developing areas, such as St James plantation, for example,
will require the establishment of a new fire station in the future.
1.4.6 SCHOOLS
In most land use plans, coverage of "schools" normally focuses on the condition and
need for improvements to school facilities. However, during the initial round of public
input meetings for this update to the Brunswick County Land Use Plan, concern over
the quality of the county's overall educational system was identified very strongly. In
fact, the quality of education in the county's schools was among the highest concerns
identified in three out of five regional meetings held for the plan. In addition, the
Leadership Interviews conducted for the plan also gave heavy emphasis to doing
something about education. Therefore, this land use plan will go beyond coverage of
school facilities only, and will seek to address the quality of education in the county
from a broader perspective.
l In September 1991, the "Brunswick County Schools Survey Report" was completed by
the North Carolina Department of Instruction, Division of School Planning. While the
Report gives greatest treatment to the condition and capacity of the County's school
Brunswick County Planning Board page 70 Glenn Harbeclk Associates
I

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
facilities, it also includes findings and statistics regardingthe County's overall
commitment to education, y relative to other counties in the region and state. Excerpts of
some of the report's findings and recommendations follow:
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS (Excerpts)
Community i
—The 0-18 population in Brunswick County increased from 11,430 in 1980 to 12,671
in 1990.
There are three primary indicators by which the wealth of a county*can be measured:
(1) Per Capita Income —In 1989, Brunswick County's per capita income was
$11,303 or 73.9 percent of the North Carolina average.
(2) Per Capita Retail Sales— In 1989-90, Brunswick County's per capita retail sales
was $6,594 or 72 percent of the state average.
(3) Per Pupil Property Valuation— In 1989-90, Brunswick County had a per pupil
valuation of $491,763 or 226 percent of the state average.
School System
—The Brunswick County School System operated 11 schools in 1990-91.
—According to pupil population projections, the total school -age population will
increase by 10.5 percent from 1989-90 to 1994-95.
School Finance
—During the 13-year period 1973-74 through 1985-86, Brunswick County spent over
$12.6 million on capital improvements to schools. This represents an investment of
local moneys of 6.31 percent of all the dollars available to the county during that
period. This is lower than the four surrounding counties.
—The quality of the educational programs in a school system is dependent upon the
amount of local funds that the
unit received from the county. Local current expense
funds are used to employ staff members above the state allocation. There is
generally a relationship between the number of locally paid teachers and the
strength of art, music, guidance, media and vocational programs. In 1989-90, the
Brunswick County School System employed 31 teachers from local funds
representing 5.7 percent of their total staff. The state average percentage of local
staff employed from local funds for the same year was 6.1.
—In comparing the local efforts to support schools through the local per pupil costs for
current it
expense, should be noted that the North Carolina average for 1989-90
was $931.43 while Brunswick County's was $870.20.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 71 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
L
After analyzing the data regarding grade organization, pupil population projections,
geographic distribution of students, facility evaluations and economic capability of the
Brunswick County school district, the following long-range plan was developed for
consideration by the board of education.
Bolivia Elementary
—Work to reduce the membership at Bolivia Elementary School to within its capacity
of 432 students.
Lincoln Primary
—Convert Lincoln Primary from a K-3 school to a K-5 elementary school and reduce
the membership to approximately 700. Phase out building 07 which is currently
used for special programs; however, the committee recommends that as soon as
possible the regular first grade classroom housed in building 07 should be located
into the main building and if students have to be housed in building 07 that it be
used as a resource facility. Additionally, the kindergarten classes at Lincoln should
be relocated into the purpose designed kindergarten classrooms.
Southport Elementary
—Reduce the student population of Southport Elementary to a 700-student school to
fully accommodate the Basic Education Plan once the new elementary school at
Supply is completed. Construct a new dining facility and convert existing dining
facility/kitchen into instructional space. Remove mobile units.
Union Primary
—Convert this facility to a K-5 school and reduce the membership to approximately
700. Phase out and replace building 04 classrooms and building 05 music modular
building. Remove mobile units. Provide additional toilet facilities in media/cafeteria
building. Combine kindergarten classrooms to provide adequately -sized
classrooms and/or build additional kindergarten classrooms.
Waccamaw Elementary
—Convert from a K-8 to a K-5 school. Adjust the attendance line to assign additional
K-5 students to bring the membership up to approximately 450.
Leland Middle
—Convert this school from a 4-8 to a 6-8 facility. Adjust the attendance lines to bring
membership in line with recommended size standards.
Shallotte Middle
—Convert Shallotte Middle School from a 4-8 to a 6-8 school and bring membership
in line with recommended size standards.
South Brunswick Middle
—Construct eight additional teaching stations and remove mobile units.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 72 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
West Brunswick High r
—Build eight additional teaching stations and remove mobile units.
New Elementary Schools
—Construct an additional K-5 elementary school in North Brunswick County with a
capacity of 700 students.
—Incorporate into long-range planning a new K-5 elementary school in the Calabash t
area to house between 600 to 700 students.
New Central Office Complex
—Construct a new central facility at the county office complex.
Facility Improvements and Costs
Subsequent to the preparation of the Brunswick County Schools Survey Report, ort, a
specific Long Range Plan for Brunswick County Schools was prepared, dated
November 22, 1991. The specific improvements along with their estimated costs are i
as follows:
LONG RANGE PLAN
BRUNSWICK COUNTY SCHOOLS
SOUTHPORT PRIMARY SCHOOL:
Construct new cafeteria and kitchen wing. Renovate existing kitchen to provide
additional instructional spaces and EMH/TMH spaces. Convert existing EMH/TMH
areas to resource rooms.
Construction budget: $681,000
Survey, borings 6,000
Professional fees 56,000
TOTAL COST: 743,000
NEW CENTRAL OFFICE:
Construct new central office on land in the County Complex in Bolivia. Include central
offices, AV suite, and public meeting space.
Projected area:
16,000 sq. ft.
Projected cost/sq. ft. (w/parking) $70
Construction budget 1,120,000 ,
Survey, borings 10,000
Professional fees 80,000
Contingencies (2.5% of budget) 28,000
TOTAL COST: 1,238,000
WEST BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL:
Construct 9 additional teaching stations with support areas, new administration area,
art, band room, and computer room. Renovate existing offices.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 73 Glenn Harbeck Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
Projected area: 24,206
Projected cost/sq. ft. $68
New Construction budget 1,646,008
Renovation of existing offices (lump sum) 50,000
Total construction budget 1,696,008
Survey, borings 15,000
Professional fees 110,240
Contingencies (2.5% of budget) 42,400
TOTAL COST: 1,863,648
NORTH BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL:
Construct 6 additional teaching stations with support areas, new administration area,
art, band room, and computer room. Renovate existing offices.
Projected area:
20,696
Projected cost/sq. ft.
$68
New construction budget
1,407,328
Renovation of existing offices (lump sum)
50,000
Total construction budget
1,457,328
Survey, borings
15,000
Professional fees
96,183
'
Contingencies (2.5% of budget)
36,433
TOTAL COST:
1,604,944
NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: WEST AREA
Construct new elementary school in north area of county
for 600 students.
Projected area:
75,000
Projected cost/sq. ft.
$65
Construction budget
4,875,000
Survey, borings
15,000
Professional fees (repeat North school)
200,000
Contingencies (2.5% of budget)
121,875
COST:
Land acquisition costs:
40 acres 9 2,500/acre
100,000
TOTAL COST:
5,311,875
NEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL; NORTH AREA
Construct new elementary school in north area of county for 600 students.
Projected area:
75,000
Projected cost/sq. ft.
$65
Construction budget
4,875,000
Survey, borings
15,000
Professional fees
273,000
Contingencies (2.5% of budget)
121,875
Land acquisition costs:
40 acres C) 2.500/acre
100,000
Brunswick County Planning Board page 74
Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
40 acres @ 2.500/acre
100,000
TOTAL COST:
5,384,875
SOUTH BRUNSWICK MIDDLE SCHOOL:
,
Add 8 new teaching stations, special ed. facilities, and resource rooms.
Projected area:
18,000
Projected cost/sq. ft.
$68
Construction budget
Survey,
1,224,000
borings
15,000
Professional fees
83,232
Contingencies (2.5% of budget)
30,600
TOTAL COST:
1,352,832
i
RECAP:
Southport Primary School
$743,000
New Central Office
1,238,000
West Brunswick High School Addition
1,863,648
North Brunswick High School Addition
1,604,944
New Elementary School: West
5,311,875
New Elementary School: North
5,384,875
South Brunswick Middle School Addition
1,352,832
GRAND TOTAL PROJECTED COST
$17,499,174 ,
1.4.7 LIBRARY SYSTEM
Until recently, library facilities in the county were administered by a Library
Commission made up of volunteers (appointees) from each of the small towns in the
county. During the course of preparing this plan, the County established a new
department within County government and the County Commissioners appointed a
newly structured Board of Trustees specifically to take over several existing libraries.
Permanent library buildings exist at Southport and Shallotte. There is also a trailer
type facility in Leland. During 1993, it is expected that new libraries will be constructed
on Oak Island and in Leland. While there is no master plan on the books, a potential
future library site has been discussed for location in Calabash.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 75 Glenn Harbeck Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
r1.4.8 PARKS, RECREATION, AND WATERFRONT ACCESS
On the basis of a plan prepared by the County Planning Department as an addendum
to the 1976 CAMA Land Use Plan, the County has implemented a program of
providing recreational parks and services at various sites throughout the county.
During the decade of the 1980s, the County built a series of area parks— one in the
general Leland area, one in the Southport -Oak Island area, one in the Mill Creek-
Winnabow-Town Creek area, one at Shallotte, one at Supply, and one in the Ash-
Waccamaw area. Community ceners have been built in two of these parks, and three
other centers have been built as separate operations in the Cedar Grove -Holden
Beach area, the Northwest Community -Sandy Creek area, and in the Town of Leland.
Each of these County park facilities is shown on the Community Facilities Map, found
on page 77a. Major amenities at each of the above -mentioned county parks are as
follows:
I BRUNSWICK COUNTY AREA PARKS
CURRENT AMENITIES
1�
11
1
Supply
Shallott
Ash-
Southport
Mill Creek-
Leland
Waccamaw
Oak Island
Winnabow.
area
Town Cr.
)
( Lockwood
(Shallotte
(Waccarnaw
(Smithville
(Town Cr.
Northwest
Folly
Township)
Township)
Township)
Township)
Township)
Township)
Concession
1
1
1
1
1
1
Stand w/Rest
rooms
Little League
2
1
Fields
Tennis Courts
2
2
2
2
2
4
Picnic Shelters
2
3
1
2
1
4
Softball Field
1
1
2
2
4
Basketball
1
1
1
2
Court
Multi -purpose
1
1
1
1
Field
Community
1
1
1
Building
Playground
1
1
1
1
1
Area
In addition, the County Parks and Recreation Department maintains and operates a
number of other smaller park and recreation facilities, and has maintenance service
agreements for certain facilities within the County school system.
Brunswick CountyPlanning Board page 76
9 p 9 Glenn Harbedc Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis I
r
A new major park in the Shallotte area, specifically oriented for the senior citizen
population of the area, was requested but not included in the County budget for the
1992-93 fiscal year.
1.4.9 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
Brunswick Count recent) implemented a move Y y p o e to a privatized soled waste collection
system. As of March 1, 1992, Waste Management Industries assumed responsibilities
for waste collection and hauling previously handled by the County. It is a 5 year
contract.
Brunswick County has been moving steadily toward improvements in the way in which
trash collection and disposal is handled. The former 53-acre County landfill, for
example, recently underwent a major expansion in acreage, effectively extending the
life of the facility for many years. It is centrally located just off U.S. 17 near NC 211,
and is shown on the Community Facilities Map found on the next page.
An effort has been underway for several years to reduce the number of green boxes
scattered around the county. From a total of about 200 such boxes in 1987, there are
today only about 75-80 located at an estimated 65 sites in the county.
The County has three transfer stations, located in the Ocean Isle/Shallotte,
Southport/Oak Island, and Leland/Navassa vicinities, respectively.
There has also been a concerted effort to create convenience centers, where recycling
can occur. At the time of this writing, there is one active convenience center at the
intersection of Mount Pisgah Road and Highway 130. A second convenience center is
under construction on Highway 904, and a third is planned for the near future on
Highway 211. All three are to be manned facilities to encourage recycling and
facilitate proper use. All three are to have compactor boxes for efficient handling of
waste materials.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 77 Glenn Harbeck Associates
r

'r
Community Facilities Map
®
Sewage Service Areas
Trunk Lines
Water System
Future Water Trunk Lines
Parks
County
Airstrip
Hospital
Sanitary Landfill
Municipal (Not in Planning Area)
Brunswick County
LAND USE PLAN
1992 Update
Glenn Harbeck Associates
Planning and Public Involvement
SCALE IN MILES
WORTH 0 1 2 3 4

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
I
1.5 Anticipated Demand
The purpose of this section is to anticipate how future population projections may
impact upon the need for additional developable land and community facilities in
Brunswick County. These projections have a direct bearing on the amount of land
allotted, for example, to the Transition and Developed Classes of the Land
Classification Map. This is more fully explained in the paragraphs that follow.
1.5.1 PERMANENT AND SEASONAL POPULATIONS
1.5.1 (a) Permanent Population
As noted earlier under Section 1.2.1, the population growth of Brunswick County was
fairly modest until about 1970. During the decade of the 70's, however, the County's
population increased by almost 48 percent. During the 1980's, this growth pattern
continued at only a slightly less rapid rate, adding another 43 percent to the County's
population. As a result, the permanent population of Brunswick County more than
doubled (from 24,223 to 50,985) in just two decades, 1970 to 1990.
The Office of State Budget and Management is charged with responsibility for making
future population projections for all counties in North Carolina. The Coastal Area
Management Act land use planning guidelines further require that these projections
be accepted and employed in preparing land use plans, unless better evidence and
information can be provided by the local government. The following compares the
State's population projections as prepared in 1987 with those prepared in October of
1991.
Population Projections
PROJECTED POPULATION
Year Estimate prepared in 1987 Estimate prepared in1991
2000 75,471 66,171
2010 86,755 79,866
2020 N/A 92,623
Source: Mr. Bill Tillman, Office of State Budget and Management, and 1987
Brunswick County Land Use Plan.
Follow up discussions with the representative of the Office of State Budget and
Management revealed that the above projections are based primarily on trend lines
from the recent past. Thus, the lower than expected 1990 census count for the County
' had the effect of dampening previous, larger estimates of future population. The
representative also indicated that any special demographic studies prepared for the
County might very well be more accurate than those of the State. The explanation
given was that the State's projections must rely upon known, factual information from
the past and extrapolations therefrom, as opposed to more locally specific conditions
and trends. Finally, the representative also indicated that the more recent projections
Brunswick County Planning Board page 78 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
may, in his opinion, be /argerthan what is reasonable to expect, based on the
probability that Brunswick County will not be able to sustain the rate of growth
(percentage -wise) experienced during the 70's and 80's.
At the same time, local officials are of the opinion that the 1990 Census resulted in an
undercounting of the permanent population (i.e. they believe that at least 4,000
residents were not counted). The County's experience in reviewing subdivision plats,
issuing building permits, water taps, etc. leads local officials to believe that the latest
projections may be too conservative.
In light of these differing views, and in recognition that the State feels that the current
projections may in fact be larger than justified, this plan recommends that the most
recent projections be accepted and employed in the 1991 Land Use Plan Update, as a
suitable compromise between State and Local government.
1.5.1 (b) Seasonal Population
As was the case for the 1987 Land Use Plan Update, peak seasonal population is
projected at two overnight visitors for each permanent resident, on the basis of
experience to date and volume of tourist housing. By the year 2000, therefore, a peak
day total population of about 200,000 is expected and, by 2010, that figure is projected
to grow to about 240,000.
ESTIMATED PEAK DAY
TOTAL POPULATION
Brunswick County
Year 2000 198,513
Year 2010 239,598
It should be noted that no estimate for year 2020 Peak Day population is provided,
given the unpredictability of the permanent resident/seasonal resident split some 30
years hence.
1.5.1(c) Economic Projections /Prospects
The economic analysis included as part of Section 1.2 of this Plan documents the
following economic trends for Brunswick County.
1. A continued decline in agriculturally -based employment.
2. A continued decline in seafood and fisheries -based employment.
3. A relative decline in manufacturing employment as a percentage of total
employment, compared to service and trade employment.
4. A continued increase in the volume of travel and tourism related expenditures as a
percentage of the total local economy.
5. A continued increase in the so-called "mailbox" economy of the county's rapidly
growing retirement population; i.e., transfer payments.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 79 Glenn Harbeck Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
In addition, the Leadership Interviews conducted as part of the early public input for
this Land Use Plan offered several important insights into the future of Brunswick
County's economy. These insights describe several variables within the control of
Brunswick County residents that can have a marked impact on the future course of the
local economy. These variables include:
1. Education: The greater the commitment to improved elementary/high school
education, the greater the chances of attracting new business and industry to the
County for the benefit of local residents.
2. Infrastructure: While not a panacea, the County's continuing commitment to provide
potable water for urban and urbanizing areas and, perhaps equally important, a
multi -jurisdictional commitment to centralized sewage treatment systems, can have
a positive influence on new economic development.
3. Image: The ability of the County to institute new or improved development controls
' (zoning, subdivision regulations, sign control, landscaping, buffering and tree
preservation, etc.), especially long the County's major roadways, will influence the
quality of development (and hence people —particularly tourists and wealthy
retirees) coming to the area.
1
4. High Caliber Tourism: The County needs to encourage high caliber tourism over
tourism which involves lower per capita tourism expenditures. By this strategy, the
tourism industry can provide higher paying visitor industry jobs, rather than
minimum wage, lower paying service jobs.
Summary Finding
As stated in the Summary of Leadership Interviews, Section on Economic
Development: "The future of real economic development, outside the tourism industry,
remains unclear. So long as the County's infrastructure and services are limited, and
the educational system remains poor, it may be an uphill battle getting attractive, clean
industry to locate in the county".
1.5.2 Future Land Use Needs
The State's coastal land use planning guidelines require that estimates be prepared
showing how the land classification map compares with projected land use needs of
the county over the planning period. In the case of Brunswick County, this requirement
rests primarily with the needs and projections of the Limited Transition and Urban
Transition areas. (The Community Class simply reflects existing enclaves of residents,
the Developed Class is confined to the incorporated municipalities, the Conservation
Class recognizes areas which should receive little or no growth, and the Rural Classes
are essentially the residual areas not assigned to any other class.)
Brunswick County Planning Board page 80 Glenn Harbeck Associates
I

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis_ I
Calculating Land Use Needs
This plan uses a combination of population and housing projections, both permanent
and seasonal, to determine the need for future land in the Urban and Limited
Transition Land Classes. The methodology for this determination follows.
Population Projections
1980
1990
2000
% 1980
%1990
%2000
8,615
15,644
19,851 *
24%
30%
30%
-Municipalities
Uninc. Area
27,109
35,341
46,320*
76%
70%
70%
Total
35,777
50,885
66,171
100%
100%
100%
*Population projection applies to areas within 1990 municipal/unincorporated boundaries —does not i
account for population shifts due to new incorporations or annexations.
Source: U.S. Census, Office of State Budget and Management and Glenn Harbeck Associates.
The above table assumes that the percentage of new dwelling units within the
County's 1990 municipal/unincorporated areas will hold constant. This can be
justified due to the fact that the apparent municipal population gains during the 1980's
were due, in large measure, to new incorporations rather than appreciable in -
migrations to existing towns.
Housing Projections
1980
1990
2000
% 1980
%1990
%2000
Permanent
12,411
15,644
33,086
58%
60%
60%
Seasonal
9,154
15,114
22,057
42%
40%
40%
Total
21,559
37,114
55,143
100%
100%
100%
Year 2000 Housing Units By ncor orated Versus Unincorporated Areas
Totals
Within
Within
%
%
%
Munici-
Uninc.
alities
Area
Permanent
33,086
60%
Within
9,926
30%
Municipalities
Within Uninc.
23,160
70%
Area
Seasonal
22,057
40%
Within
11,029
50%
Municipalities
Within Uninc.
11,029
50%
Area
Totals
55,143
20,955
34,189
100%
100%
100%
County Planning Board page 81 Glenn Harbecc Associates I
Brunswick Co ty g P 9

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
Therefore, there will be a need to accommodate a total of 34,189 existing and new
housing units within the unincorporated area by the year 2000. Assuming that:
(1) 90% of these units would be located in Transition areas, and
(2) that Brunswick County's dispersed development patterns continue at an average
net density of 2 units per acre (half acre lots) this would require an estimated 17,100
total acres of developed land within the Urban and Limited Transition areas. Major
factors contributing to this low overall density include the previously mentioned
dispersed development patterns, the preponderance of golf course communities in the
County, and to a large extent, the widespread occurrence of wet soils, Carolina Bays,
' etc. throughout the County.
The Land Classification Map for Brunswick County proposes the following distributions
' of land into each of the several land classes as follows:
1
n
G
Land Class
Number of
Square
Miles
Percentage
of Total
County
Land Area
Developed/Municipal
93.5
10.9%
Urban Transition
68
8.0%
Limited Transition
71
8.3%
Community
11
1.3%
Rural Industrial
35
4.1 %
Rural
497.5
58.2%
Conservation'
79
9.2%
Total
855
100%
'This figure is actually a small percentage of the total land area allocated to the Conservation Class. This is
because this number does not include the extensive areas of the County in public trust and estuarine
system waters as well as all 404 wetland areas scattered throughout the County, and incorporated by
reference into the Conservation Class.
LIMITED TRANSITION ACREAGE CALCULATIONS
For the Limited Transition area, an estimated 80% of the total acreage assigned to this
class will be either undeveloped, in golf courses, or within the County's extensive
wetlands in the year 2000. Of the remaining developed acreage, some 25% will be
consumed by streets and utility easements. This results in the following calculations:
71 miles x 640 acres per sq. mile =
Less 80% undeveloped
Less 25% in streets and utilities
Net acreage developed in lots
45,440 acres
-36,352
9,088
-2.272
6,816 acres
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Data Collection and Analysis
URBAN TRANSITION ACREAGE CALCULATIONS
In the case of the Urban Transition area, some 65% of the total acreage assigned to
this class will be either undeveloped, in golf courses, or within the County's extensive
wetlands in the year 2000. Of the remaining developed acreage, some 25% will be
consumed by streets and utility easements. This results in the following calculations:
68 miles x 640 acres/sq. mile = 43,520 acres
Less 65% undeveloped-28.288
15,232
Less 25% in streets and utilities 3.808
Net acreage developed in lots 11,424 acres
Total land developed in lots within Limited and Urban Transition areas: 18,240 acres
Reconciling projected land needs with the land classification map:
Thus, the land classification map anticipates a total of 18,240 acres of developed land
within the two transition land classes of the unincorporated area. This compares with
the estimated need for about 17,100 acres of developed land necessary to
accommodate the projected housing needs within the same area over the same
period of time. The approximate 1000 acre difference between the two numbers is
deemed inconsequential given the magnitude of the acreages involved and the
assumptions made.
1.5.3 COMMUNITY FACILITIES DEMANDS
For the sake of uninterrupted analysis and continuity of presentation, a discussion of
community facilities demands is included in each of the community facility evaluations
conducted in Section 1.4 of this Plan.
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1 Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
1 2. Policies for Growth and
1
INTRODUCTION
1 TO THE
POLICIES
Development
The data collection and analysis described in Section 1 of this plan
was geared to gathering and summarizing information related to the
growth of Brunswick County. Building upon this information, a series
of official local government policies are hereby set forth. As officially
adopted policies of the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners,
they serve as the basis for future decisions on land use, development
and capital improvements.
In addition, Section 6 of this Plan, entitled the Action Agenda,
includes a number of Implementation Actions designed to carry
out the Polices of the Land Use Plan over the next five years.
' It is important to understand that the narrative (discussion) is not
policy, and does not carry the same degree of importance as the
actual policy statements. The narrative is designed to provide
background and rationale for the ensuing policy statement. In most
instances, the discussion serves to identify a problem or issue, and
may present a summary of findings from other technical studies.
' There is no intent to establish policy within any discussion section.
More detailed discussions of issues related to policies are found in
the earlier information sections of the Plan.
' The policy statements, on the other hand, must be viewed in a wholly
different light. As statements of local government principle, the
policies should remain substantially unchanged during the five year
planning period. Frequent changes to the polices would undermine
their effectiveness in achieving intended goals and objectives.
1 Indeed, the policies are designed to maintain a consistent and
predictable direction for local government decisions affecting local
growth and development during the planning period. In reviewing the
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
pages that follow, the reader is asked to focus greatest attention on
the policies, while relying upon the discussion primarily as
explanations as to intent.
As in the 1987 Plan, Brunswick County feels it would be appropriate
to begin the policy section by affirming the County's overall guiding
policy regarding future growth and development. It is recognized that
rapid growth has occurred and will continue to occur in Brunswick
County due to its coastal location. This growth is predominantly in the
form of a growing tourism economy, rapidly rising seasonal and
permanent populations and related residential and commercial
development. This growth, if properly guided, is deemed to be
beneficial and, in most respects, is encouraged.
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
' 2.1 RESOURCE
PROTECTION
POLICIES
' 2.1.1 Development activities in Brunswick County are constrained by a
Constraints To variety of natural and manmade limiting factors, as discussed in
' Development Sections 1.3 and 1.4 of this plan. Of the various natural limitations on
development in the County, the suitability of soil for septic tanks is, by
consensus, the single most significant constraint presently facing the
' area. Citizen comments at all five public input meetings for the land
use plan, as well as input received during the leadership interview
process, confirmed the analytical findings of the soils evaluation. In
both instances, the public felt that if the county is going to be able to
sustain additional growth and development, concerted efforts toward
the provision of centralized sewage'treatment systems would be
necessary. (More on this in sections 2.1.6 and 2.3.2.)
' Another natural constraint to development in Brunswick County,
though less pervasive than the septic tank suitability problem, is the
occurrence of areas prone to flooding. Flood prone areas have been
identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA),
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAPS (FIRMs). and the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers Special Program (SPLASH). The composite natural
hazards map found in the back of this plan, identifies flood prone
areas in Brunswick County. Considering the total amount of acreage
' in unincorporated Brunswick County, there is a relatively large
percentage of land area in the County that is free from the effects of
flooding.
2.1.2 Areas of The Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) of North Carolina calls for
Environmental the identification of certain environmentally fragile and important land
Concern and water areas that are judged to be of greater than local
significance. The Coastal Resources Commission (CRC), in
cooperation with local governments in the 20-county coastal area,
has developed a program of permit review and coordination within
these Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's ). The intent of the
regulatory program is not to stop development, but rather to insure the
compatibility of the development with the continued productivity and
value of certain critical land and water areas.
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
Detailed descriptions of all eight AEC's found in Brunswick County
are located in Section 1.3.2 of this plan. Each AEC category is briefly
summarized below with the applicable policy statement immediately
following. The reader is urged to consult with the full definition and
state -promulgated use standards of each AEC category before
contemplating development in these areas.
2.1.2(a) Coastal These are marshes, subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides,
Wetland AEC's including normal wind tides. In Brunswick County, these are
predominantly salt water marshes and brackish marshes along the
county's rivers and the intracoastal waterway.
2.1.2(b) Estuarine waters are found in semi -enclosed water bodies having
Estuarine Water free connection with the open sea and within which sea water is
AEC's measurably diluted with fresh water drained from the adjacent land.
In Brunswick County, estuarine waters are found in the intracoastal
waterway and in the southern sections of the Cape Fear, Shallotte,
and Lockwood Folly Rivers.
2.1.2(c) Public Public trust waters are all ocean and inland waters from the mean
Trust Waters high water mark to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction. Unless the
AEC's body of water is a private lake with no public access, it is safe to
assume that the water is in the public trust, unless otherwise
specifically documented. One issue of special concern in Brunswick
County is the trend toward longer piers extending out into the
County's estuarine waters. As prime waterfront sites— those with
deep water close to shore —have become developed, remaining
waterfront sites must build longer piers to reach water of adeqate
depth for boat dockage. While state regulations require that such
piers do not block stream channels, the net effect in many instances is
to inhibit the movement of watercraft in the estuary. This is particularly
evident at high tide when small boats, which would normally have
free movement through the estuary, must constrain their navigation to
limited pockets of open water, essentially fenced in by these long pier
lengths. In the case of small sailing craft, the presence of these long
piers may totally prevent the craft from sailing through the affected
body of water. The County recognizes that this is a complex issue,
requiring a careful balance between the rights of the public and the
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
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rights of the waterfront property owner. Nonetheless, the County
recognizes that the weight of the argument must rest ultimately in
favor of the rights of the public to the reasonably unobstructed use of
public trust waters.
2.1.2(d) Estuarine shorelines are non -ocean shorelines extending from the
Estuarine mean high water level along the county's estuarine sounds bays and
Shoreline AEC's brackish waters for a distance of 75 feet land ward. Where the range
of salt water influence on fresh water streams ends is also the
approximate location where the estuarine shoreline AEC also ends.
2.1.2(e) Ocean These are natural hazard areas along the ocean shoreline which are
Hazard Area especially vulnerable to the effects of sand, wind, water and erosion.
AEC's Nearly all ocean hazard areas in Brunswick County are located within
the incorporated beach communities. The only exception is the
extreme eastern tip of Oak Island.
2.1.2(f) Public This category consists of small surface water supply watersheds and
Water Supply public water supply well fields. There are no such designated areas
AEC's in Brunswick County.
2.1.2(g) Natural Within the system of Natural And Cultural Resource AEC's there are
and Cultural five distinct sub -categories:
Resource AEC's
1. Coastal Areas That Sustain Rare Species —areas that support
native plants or animals determined to be rare or endangered.
2. Coastal Complex Natural Areas —lands that support native plant
and animal communities and provide habitat qualities which have
remained essentially unchanged by human activity.
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3. Unique Coastal Geological Formations —sites that contain
geological formations that are unique or otherwise significant
components of coastal systems, or that are especially notable
examples of geologic formations or processes in the coastal area.
4. Significant Coastal Archaeological Resources —these are areas
that contain archaeological remains (objects, features, and or sites)
that have more than local significance to history or pre -history.
5. Significant Coastal Historic Architectural Resources —defined as
districts, structures, buildings, sites or objects that have more than
local significance to history or architecture. Currently, there are no
natural or cultural AEC's located in the unincorporated area of
Brunswick County. Nonetheless, there are many such areas county
which may be deserving of such designation. (See section 1.3 for
details)
It should be noted that the protection of wildlife and natural resources
was identified as a priority issue at all five public meetings held early
in the planning process for the land use plan.
2.1.3 Other
According to a June 1991 article in North Carolina Wildlife ("Stew in
Hazardous or
Brunswick", by Lawrence S. Earley) Brunswick County is one of the
Fragile Land
most biologically diverse areas in the State of North Carolina. The
Areas
article quotes Alan Weakley of the North Carolina Heritage Program
as saying "Brunswick County has, by far, more records of rare plants,
Introduction
animals and significant natural communities than any other county in
the state". More specifically the article continues, Brunswick County
has..."more than 500 'natural heritage elements', or populations of
rare plants and animals and high quality natural communities. Only
three other counties have more of these elements of natural diversity.
Brunswick County is the only county with more than 100 rare plant
records."
In addition Brunswick County is the only county with more than 20
natural areas of national and statewide significance. As compiled by
the State's Heritage Program, several of the most notable natural
areas include the following:
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Orton Pond Millpond and surrounding uplands provide breeding habitat for ,
anhinga, osprey, fox squirrels, alligators, red -cockaded woodpeckers
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and a rare snail (Planorbella magnifica). The Natural Heritage
Program rates this site as having national significance.
Boiling Spring
The largest group of pocosins, Carolina bays and savannas in private
'
Lakes Wetland
ownership. Several rare plants have been found here, including the
Complex
rough -leaf loosestrife. National significance.
Military Ocean
The 12,000-acre military base contains a large number of limesink
Terminal Sunny
ponds, longleaf pine forests and pocosins which provide habit for
' Point
many rare and endangered plant and animals species. National
significance.
Waccamaw River
The habitats associated with the Waccamaw River contain rare plants,
Aquatic Habitat
including the disjunct Plymouth gentian, and several rare fish and
shellfish. National significance.
Bald Head
Diversity of high -quality maritime communities, including the largest
Island
remaining maritime forest in the county. The island also hosts the
state's only locations of cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto). Large
numbers of loggerhead sea turtles nest on the island's beaches.
National significance.
Green Swamp Owned by The Nature Conservancy, the 15,700-acre Green Swamp
Preserve Preserve consists of an extensive pocosin wetland system associated
with probably the best remaining longleaf pine savannas in the state.
' Provides unique habitat for 14 insectivorous plants and a variety of
wildlife, including the black bear, American alligator and red -
cockaded woodpecker. National significance.
Battery Island The maritime forests on this natural island in the lower Cape Fear
River host the state's largest breeding colony of herons, egrets and
' ibises. More than 5,500 nests have been counted. National
significance.
Brunswick/ -Cape
The extensive freshwater tidal marshes in this area support one of the
Fear River
largest populations of alligators of any North Carolina river or estuary.
Marshes
Statewide significance.
Sunset Beach,
In late summer, these ponds are visited by post -breeding wood storks
Wood Stork
from Florida and Georgia. The ponds are the northernmost localities
Ponds
on the Atlantic coast used by wood storks. Statewide significance.
Bryant Mill
Located along the southern shore of the Cape Fear River, this bluff
(Greenbank)
contains a variety of wet and dry habitats sheltering several unusual
'
Bluff
plant species, including large -leaved grass -of -Parnassus. National
significance.
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
Zeke's Island Complex of islands, marshes, tidal flats and shallow estuarine water
Estuarine on the northern end of Bald Head Island. An important nesting site for
Sanctuary loggerhead sea turtles and colonial nesting waterbirds. Statewide
significance.
The article notes that most of the county's 20 significant sites are
either privately owned or have extremely limited access. Most of the
areas identified fall into one or more of the following specific fragile
land area categories suggested by the Coastal Area Management Act
Land Use Planning Guidelines.
2.1.3 (a)
According to generalized soils mapping, Brunswick County contains
Freshwater
literally thousands of acres of fresh water swamps and marshes,
Swamps,
including pocosins and 404 wetlands. While many of these areas
Marshes,
have been specifically identified as described in the introduction
Pocosins, and
above, there are many thousands more throughout the length and
404 Wetlands
breadth of the county. This situation goes hand in hand with the
county's problems in identifying suitable lands for septic tank use.
This land use plan seeks to direct urban level development to specific
geographic areas of the county where adequate services can be
provided. Even within the designated growth areas, the county
recognizes that there may be extensive areas of fresh water wetlands
that cannot be developed without great economic and environmental
costs. Therefore the County has adopted a policy of directing
development first, to general geographic areas and secondly, to
specific "dryer sections" within the borders of these areas.
2.1.3(b) According to a report published by the North Carolina Division of
Maritime Forests Coastal Management in November of 1988 (An Assessment Of
Maritime Forest Resources On The North Carolina Coast,
Michael J. Lopazanski, et al) maritime forests are the woody plant
communities that develop as an end result of primary succession on
coastal dune systems. The report further notes that maritime forests
are generally restricted to the coastal barrier islands.
(Lopazanski, p. 1)
For Brunswick County, this means that most maritime forests fall
within the planning jurisdiction of the incorporated beach
communities along the county's ocean shore.
In their 1988 report, Lopazanski, et al compiled "a complete inventory
of all maritime forest tracts remaining in North Carolina greater than
20 acres in size". According to the report, the only remaining maritime
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
' forest areas in southeastern North Carolina meeting this size
requirement are located on Bluff Island, Middle Island, and Bald Head
Island. Middle and Bald Head are within the planning jurisdiction of
the Village of Bald Head Island, while Bluff is a publicly owned nature
preserve within the planning jurisdiction of Brunswick County.
L
Even so, at least one other source (Earley, 1991) has noted the
presence of some maritime forest habitats along the tidal creeks and
ridges on the northern bank of the Intracoastal waterway in Brunswick
County.
2.1.3.c)
There are currently no Outstanding Resource Waters identified within
Outstanding
the planning jurisdiction of Brunswick County. Lockwood Folly River
Resource Waters
was at one time up for consideration as an ORW, but was removed
(ORW)
from the list of potential ORW's due to periodic high bacterial levels.
The NC Division of Environmental Management has reported that
failing septic tanks and storm water runoff from subdivisions along the
river are the most likely causes of high counts of fecal coliform in the
river. High fecal coliform counts have required the closing of shell
fishing beds over widespread portions of the river. As recently as
1988, for example, it was reported that 71 % of the shell fishing areas
in the river had to be closed, the largest percentage of waters of any
shell fishing area in the state. In June of 1989 the State published a
report on Lockwood folly which documented many of these findings.
Since that time, the State has continued to monitor fecal coliform
levels in the river on a weekly basis. Funding in support of the
monitoring program is expected to run out before the end of 1992.
While no specifics were offered, a State official involved in the
program indicated that major sources of fecal coliform contamination
were being identified. Recommended actions to be taken to correct
these problems would be the next logical step. Brunswick County
officials have continued to express their support for a specific
management plan to restore the river's water quality, including
possible future reconsideration as an ORW.
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
2.1.3(d) Water As noted in sections 1.3 and 1.4 of this report, Brunswick County is
Supply Areas. moving rapidly away from well water as its primary source of potable
water. The County's relatively new piped water system relies
primarily upon surface water from the Cape Fear River upstream of
the area of salt water influence. While the County's water system
continues to draw from a series of ground water wells west of
Southport, plans are in place to phase out this element of the county's
water supply. There is some concern that if present trends continue,
saltwater intrusion will become a major problem for wells located
anywhere generally east of US 17 in the County. In fact, engineering
studies prepared as early as the late 1970's, first identified saltwater
intrusion as a real threat to the long term potable water supply of
County residents. Nonetheless, for many rural area residents, ground
water is the only source of potable water for their homes.
At the same time, the County is aware of the vulnerable position in
which it has placed itself when relying upon a surface water supply
source whose quality is dependent upon the duty and care of
upstream water users. This issue has become particularly evident
with the advent of major hog slaughtering facilities upstream, the
possibility of inter basin water transfers, and increasing levels of
upstream development. Therefore, the only prudent course of action
is to see that both sources of water receive careful attention and
protection for their long term use.
2.1.3(e) Cultural As noted in section 1.3.2, the State Division of Archives and History
and Historic has stated that there are no fewer than 172 prehistoric sites and 25
Resources significant historic architectural structures and sites in the
unincorporated areas of Brunswick County. The State has also noted
that there are in all likelihood other properties and sites of prehistoric,
architectural and/or historical significance of which they are unaware.
Further, the State office has observed that areas along the county's
sound shorelines, stream and river shorelines, and some high ground
areas within or around low lying marsh land have a higher than
average probability for containing archeological sites.
Support for the protection and enhancement of cultural and historic
resources has been strong among some segments of Brunswick
County society, as evidenced by historic preservation efforts in
Shallotte, Southport, Brunswick Town and elsewhere.
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2.1.3(f) As discussed more fully under section 1.3.1(b), Brunswick County
Manmade contains several sizable manmade hazards including: Carolina
Hazards Power and Light Nuclear Facility, the Sunny Point Ocean military
terminal (and its associated railroad corridors), the Archer Daniels
Midland Chemical Facility and the DuPont Chemical facility. In
addition, the two general purpose airports within the county are also
potentially hazardous. Each of these facilities is an important
economic asset to the County and, therefore, deserve all due
consideration in avoiding the placement of new development which
would lead to immediate or long term land use conflicts. As the areas
impacted directly by these facilities involve the planning jurisdictions
of the Town of Ocean Isle Beach and the Southeastern Sanitary
District, continued inter -local coordination will be necessary. Through
the County's Planning Department and Emergency Services
Department, the mechanisms are already in place to achieve this
coordination.
2.1.4 Hurricane Section 2.5 of this plan deals exclusively with the subject of storm
and Flood hazard mitigation, post disaster recovery and evacuation. The reader
Evacuation is referred to that section, which includes several policy statements on
hurricane and flood evacuation.
2.1.5 Protection 1981 marked the first year of a major commitment by Brunswick
of Potable Water County to develop a regional water supply system for the County.
Supply Since that time, the County has been moving aggressively away from
ground water and toward surface water as its primary source of
potable water supply. Engineering studies have predicted that
saltwater intrusion will become a growing problem in the county's
groundwater, especially in the increasingly populated areas near the
county's ocean coastline.
The County's system draws its raw water supply (through the Lower
Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority) from a point just above Lock
and Dam Number One on the Cape Fear River. This location is
above the point of estuarine salt water influence reaching up the river
from the mouth of the Cape Fear.
In recent years, considerable concern has focused on the impact of
upstream developments and uses on the quality of the water in the
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
Cape Fear. By the time it reaches the Authority's water intake, the
river has received urban and agricultural area runoff, various
pollutants, and effluent discharges from an area which encompasses
a large area of the interior of the State of North Carolina. At the same
time, there is a continuing concern that interbasin transfers could
occur upsteam, thereby diminishing the flow volume of the river, and
further concentrating pollutants in the stream.
In other words, Brunswick and New Hanover Counties are at the end
of the pipe, in a manner of speaking, with regard to the quantity and
quality of the water in the Cape Fear River. More particularly, the
recent development of a large hog slaughtering facility on a site in
Bladen County within the Cape Fear basin has served to amplify the
issue.
Protection of the County's raw water supply therefore ranks as a very
high priority concern for the future growth and development of
Brunswick County, and the whole lower Cape Fear region. The
County is vitally interested in seeing applicable state and federal
agencies carefully monitor and control upstream development
activities so as not to irreparably damage the very future of the
County.
2.1.6 Package As discussed previously, extensive areas of soils unsuited for septic
Sewage tanks are a major constraint on future growth and development in
Treatment Plants Brunswick County. Until such a time as centralized sewage treatment
facilities are put in place, new developments in the county will have to
rely upon either septic tanks or package sewage treatment plants for
their sewage disposal needs.
Several trends have emerged which lead the County to be supportive
of the use of package sewage treatment plants. These trends include:
Brunswick County Planning Board page 95 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
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1. newer development occurring increasingly on marginally
suitable soils.
2. a tightening of regulations concerning the siting and
operation of conventional septic tanks.
3. an identified need for a greater variety of housing types in
the county —including multi -family cluster development and
other forms of innovative residential development.
4. the scarcity of state and federal funding sources for the
construction of municipal sewage treatment facilities.
Currently, Brunswick County has no plans to build publicly financed
and operated sewage treatment plants in the foreseeable future.
While several other smaller area initiatives are underway, there is
little doubt that the private sector will have to play an increasing role
in the provision of sewage treatment facilities in the county. For all of
the reasons outlined above, package sewage treatment plants will
continue to present a viable option for domestic and commercial
sewage disposal in unincorporated Brunswick County.
2.1.7 Noted North Carolina hydrogeologist Ralph C. Heath, when speaking
Stormwater about the coastal area of North Carolina, has stated that the...
Runoff "construction ... of multi -story condominiums, motels and other vacation
facilities, with their parking lots, tennis courts, and swimming pools, is
resulting in the creation of large expanses of impervious areas.
Disposing of the runoff from these areas during storms in a manner
that is not detrimental to the adjacent sounds and ocean is among the
most pressing water management problems now confronting the
developer and the public officials in this area." (News: Water
Resources Research Institute of the University of North Carolina,
November 1986).
The construction of large, impervious surfaces associated with major
commercial and residential development, accelerates the rate at
which rain waters reach the estuarine sound waters. This rapid influx
I of fresh water can change the natural -salinity of the sound water and
disrupt the biological balance of the natural system. The water can
also carry higher than normal levels of nutrients and other
biodegradable materials that can create excessive oxygen demand
for decomposing the material.
Much of what is described above can be witnessed in the continued
rapid development of the unincorporated area of Brunswick County.
The widespread closing of the county's estuarine waters for
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development I
shellfishing is but one symptom of a much larger problem. While it
may be too late to turn matters completely around, it is commendable
that Brunswick County currently requires a storm water management
plan be submitted as part of any development proposal. The county
intends to give greater attention to this element of plan review, with
the intent of more carefully controlling storm water runoff into the
estuary.
2.1.8 Marina According to CAMA guidelines, a floating structure is..."any structure
and Floating not a boat, supported by a means of floatation designed to be used
Home without a permanent foundation, which is used or intended for human
Development habitation or commerce. A structure will be considered a floating
structure when it is inhabited or used for commercial purposes for
more than 30 days in any one location. A boat may be deemed a
floating structure when its means of propulsion has been removed or
rendered inoperative and it contains at least 200 square feet of living
space area."
Floating home development is not seen by the Brunswick County
Planning Board as having any significant benefit to the county. The
environmental, aesthetic and public trust area problems associated
with such development are deemed to far outweigh any potential
economic benefits gained.
Regarding marina development, the County believes that the state's
use standards for marinas as specified in T15A:07H.0200 offer
sufficient standards and safeguards for future development of such
facilities.
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2.1.9 Industrial The topic of industrial impacts on fragile areas brings to the forefront r
Impacts on two major growth issues in Brunswick County. First, the majority of all
Fragile Areas land in the county is environmentally fragile, and is therefore readily
susceptible to destruction. Second, the county has a strong industrial
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tax base for a resident population of its size and, from an economic
development perspective, would like to encourage more industry.
Of course, the county would prefer that industrial development not
locate in fragile areas; however the county recognizes that the
locational needs of many industries are dependent upon proximity to
rail, air, and highway transportation and the availability of utilities.
The county's land classification map, which is an integral part of the
policy section of this plan, has identified several areas of the county
that are suitable for industrial development. The map also reserves a
large area in the general "Rural" class which may also be appropriate
for certain types of industry.
At the same time, the map identifies several areas that are clearly not
suitable for industrial development. These areas include, for
example, the Green Swamp, certain large Carolina bays, and most of
the county's regularly flooded wetlands.
Even so, the county will consider all industrial location decisions on a
case by case basis. When the economic benefits of a new industry
outweigh their potential environmental impacts, the county will work
with the industry to see that such impacts are mitigated to the
maximum extent possible.
2.1.10 There are many small sound and estuarine system islands in
Development of Brunswick County which are privately owned. Among these, the most
Sound and well known include Bird Island, which falls primarily (95%) within the
Estuarine extra -territorial planning jurisdiction of the Town of Sunset Beach, and
System Islands Sheep Island, near the Town of Long Beach.
Plans and discussions regarding the fate of the 85 acre Bird Island
are continuing as this land use plan is being prepared. In mid 1992,
the owner submitted plans to the State to build a bridge and
causeway to the island, plus a pier with space for six boats, and a 15-
lot subdivision. Officials with various state and federal agencies have
been reviewing the request, which has generated considerable
interest among local area residents.
Concerning Sheep Island, the Town Board of Long Beach in April of
1992, made an official determination that Sheep Island not be part of
the Town; rather the island is to be considered part of unincorporated
Brunswick County, and therefore under the County's planning
jurisdiction.
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While these islands (and other smaller, unnamed ones similar to
them) have extremely fragile environmental conditions, it is the
County's position that so long as these islands are under private
ownership, they should be allowed to develop in accordance with
private property rights enjoyed by other property owners in the county.
At the same time, if the owner(s) of these islands should decide to
build upon them, the County would strongly encourage the property
owner to develop such islands in an environmentally sensitive
manner.
2.1.11 There has been considerable discussion and debate over the past
Development decade about the influence of sea level rise on beach and shoreline
Near Sea Level erosion along North Carolina's coast. In the case of Brunswick
County, all areas subject to this debate fall within the planning
jurisdictions of the incorporated beach municipalities along the
county's ocean coast.
Nonetheless, there are some developments occurring along the
northern shore of the intracoastal waterway, within the unincorporated
area, that could eventually be effected by sea level rise. For this
reason, some discussion is in order. The County's flood plain
regulations typically require that development in floodprone areas be
elevated above the 100 year flood plain. In addition, the estuarine
shoreline AEC standards discourage new development from
occurring too close to a threatened shoreline. Generally, the County
supports a policy of prudent initial development with full recognition of
the risks and consequences of building in such areas; that failing,
structures should be required to retreat when threatened —rather than
hardening the shoreline.
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2.1.12 Upland As the immediate coastal area of Brunswick County, indeed the State
Excavation for of North Carolina, has become more intensively developed for
Marina Basins shoreline uses, natural sites for deep water marinas have become
increasingly scarce. State regulations which justifiably discourage or
prohibit the destruction of wetland habitats, primary nursery areas and
other important, environmentally sensitive estuarine areas, have
made opportunities for new marina developments difficult.
Nonetheless, as the coastal population of Brunswick County grows,
demand for marina facilities grows commensurately.
State CAMA standards (15-NCAC 7H.0208(6)(5) set forth the
following four alternatives, in order of priority, for the development of
new marinas:
1. upland site, no wetland/habitat alteration, good water
circulation.
2. upland site, dredging only for access, minimal damage to
fisheries or wetlands.
3. deep water site, not in primary nursery area, not requiring
excavation or wetland alternation.
4. open water site, excavation of unproductive areas no
deeper than depth of connecting channels.
Thus, the State has declared upland sites to be the preferred
alternative for new marina development. As a result, excavation for
marina basins in upland sites becomes an attractive option from a
permitting perspective, especially where no wetlands/habitat
alteration is involved and where good water circulation can be
achieved.
2.1.13 Marsh Generally, Brunswick County supports the standards for bulkheads
Damage from and rip rap as identified in T1 5A:07H.1 100 regarding the general
Bulkhead permit for the construction of such structures in estuarine and public
Installation trust waters. To meet the requirements of the general permit,
proposed bulkheads and/or rip rap can be placed only along
shorelines either (1) void of wetland vegetation —including marsh
grass and wooded swamp, or (2) where all construction is to be
accomplished landward of such vegetation. (.1105 specific
conditions)
While Brunswick County supports these standards, it also recognizes
(as does the State) that in some instances it may be necessary to use
bulkheading or rip rap materials to stabilize a channel leading from
an upland marina to a deep water channel. In such instances, the
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County supports applicable state and federal regulations concerning
the minimization of such channels and the mitigation of such impacts
on wetlands destroyed by such structures.
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2.2. RESOURCE
PRODUCTION
AND
MANAGEMENT
POLICIES
2.2.1 Productive Statistics compiled for Section 1.2.1(b) of this plan (Economy), reveal
Agricultural a continuing decline for agriculture in Brunswick County's overall
Lands economy. While the amount of acreage and cropland has fluctuated
somewhat from year to year, the overall trend toward declining
acreage is quite clear and, compared to some inland counties,
Brunswick County's sandy, low nutrient coastal soils have not
traditionally generated high agricultural yields.
During the leadership interviews conducted for this plan, the term
"subsistence level. farming" was used frequently to describe the
historic character of farming in Brunswick County. Over the past ten
years, the County has experienced the conversion of substantial
amounts of agricultural lands into more profitable residential and
commercial development.
olilc 2 2 The contnuedIgrtculturs! use of fhb>::Brinswlok County`s
r talll art m A11t 5: ...................::..
2.2.2 While there are no official current estimates of commercial forest
Commercial acreage available, the Brunswick County Planning Board in 1987
Forest Lands estimated that approximately two thirds of all land in Brunswick
County was in commercial forest land. Forest lands for paper
production are a very important land use in the county.
The most significant environmental impact regarding commercial
forestry activities centers on the large drainage ditches oftentimes
employed on such lands. The construction of major systems of
drainage can radically alter the environmental character and wildlife
habitat of these extensive land holdings. Further, such ditches can
accelerate the speed at which storm water reaches the estuary,
thereby changing the salinity of the estuary. At the same time,
drainage can reduce the amount of rain water being recharged to the
ground water resource, potentially increasing the speed at which salt
water intrusion effects the potable ground water supply.
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2.2.3 Mineral Mineral production and mining activities in Brunswick County involve
Production primarily borrow pits for the extraction of sand and gravel. There are
Areas known deposits of sand and gravel and coquina scattered throughout
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the county. At the present time, extensive borrow pits are located
along Todd Road and in the Shallotte point area. The County's
proposed zoning ordinace is expected to contain provisions which
would offer a greater measure of local control over such activities.
2.2.4 Commercial and recreational fishing are an integral part of the
Commercial and economic, social and cultural heritage of Brunswick County. As
Recreational discussed in section 1.2.1(b) Economy, levels of commercial fishing
Fisheries activity have remained steady or declined slightly over the past 25
years. At the same time, interest in recreational fishing has increased
enormously.
Commercial fish landings, however, are not the sole indicators of the
impact of the fisheries resource on the overall economy of Brunswick
County. Much of the county's tourism -driven economy is derived from
both the real and perceived image of an area with close ties to sea.
During the early public meetings held for the land use plan, this
concern was most apparent in the amount of support given to the
protection of wildlife habitats and the proper management of the
county's natural resources, including the fisheries resource.
State law prohibits local governments from regulating the marine
fisheries resource, which is considered to be held in the public trust.
The Marine Fisheries Commission and Division of Marine Fisheries,
however, welcome the input of local governments and residents in
decisions regarding marine fisheries regulations. Also, the County
does have the ability to control land side development to minimize
adverse impacts on water quality in the estuary, and particularly
primary nursery areas and shell fish areas.
In addition to naturally occurring fisheries resources, aquaculture,
(which may be defined as the controlled growth of fish, shell fish or
marine plants for economic benefit) has gained interest in coastal
North Carolina in recent years. Such aquaculture facilities can
include both landside containments as well as open water marine
sites. Principle species with high potential for aquaculture
development in the coastal waters of North Carolina include hard
clams, soft shell crabs and oysters (Aquaculture Development Plan
for North Carolina, Governors Task Force on Aquaculture, December
1988). The relatively poor quality of the county's estuarine resources,
however, may preclude open water marine sites.
Public concern continues that the county's waters are being over -
fished and that the fisheries resource is being rapidly depleted. The
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County would therefore like to see better fisheries management and
enforcement occur in its waters.
2.2.5 Off Road Concern for the environmental impacts of off -road vehicles in coastal
Vehicles North Carolina is primarily oriented toward beach and near beach
dune areas. Such beach areas in Brunswick County occur within the
incorporated beach communities along the county's ocean shore.
Nonetheless, off -road vehicles have been known to traverse the
county's wetlands and other fragile areas at locations further inland.
In such areas, off -road vehicle traffic can easily destroy fragile
wetland vegetation as well as other natural habitats upon which the
county's wildlife depends.
2.2.6 All of the county's major development impact issues, such as
Development industrial development, expanding residential development, and
Impacts storm water runoff, etc. are covered under specific policy headings in
various parts of this plan. The table of contents provides a means of
quickly identifying the location of policies concerning particular
development types.
2.2.7 Peat or While peat and phosphate mining have been an issue in other
Phosphate coastal counties of North Carolina, opportunities for peat or
Mining Impacts phosphate excavation in Brunswick County are speculative at best
and would have to be considered at the time any such proposal
should arise. For this reason, the reader is referred to the general
mining policy set forth previously under section 2.2.3.
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SECTION 2.3
ECONOMIC AND
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
POLICIES
Introduction This policy section is concerned with those issues associated with the
development and redevelopment of Brunswick County. Among the
several issues discussed are the types and locations of desired
development, the willingness of the County to provide public services
for development, the desired pattern of development, local support for
state and federal programs influencing development, and the
provision of access to public open space and land and water
recreational areas.
2.3.1 Types and The leadership interviews conducted early in the planning process,
Locations of combined with discussions at the Planning Board level, provided
Industries useful insights into the challenges concerning economic development
Desired in Brunswick County. Much of the area's present attitudes about
growth stem from the economic history of the county over the past 100
years. Prior to the 1960's, most Brunswick County residents lived
under a basic, subsistence -level, resource -based economy (i.e.
farming and fishing). And, despite the tremendous industrial growth
experienced during the 60's and 70's, the county continues to have
an unemployment rate consistently higher than surrounding areas.
Thus, many residents continue to place a high priority on economic
growth and better paying jobs.
At the same time, the educational system remains behind state norms,
causing local area workers to have a difficult time competing for job
openings. As a result, there is concern among county residents that
new industries brought to the county will simply bring employees from
outside the area to fill the new positions created. There is a strong
feeling among local residents that new industries brought in should
use local talent (or re-trained local talent) rather than hiring people
from outside the county. Otherwise, the new industry does not
represent economic development, but rather, just economic growth for
growth's sake.
Regarding the issue of "clean" vs. "dirty" industry, Planning Board
members felt that such industries were difficult to characterize in
today's rapidly changing national and global economy. The point
was also made that Brunswick County presently generates a large
amount of waste from its existing industrial base, and it therefore has
a responsibility to address the difficult issues of disposal of hazardous
waste materials.
Finally, the issue of tourism as an industry is discussed later under
section 2.3.8.
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2.3.2 Provision Brunswick County supports CAMA's renewed emphasis on the
of Services to relationship between future growth and the provision of services to
Development support that growth. This relationship is reflected most specifically in
the land classification map which accompanies this plan. The land
classification map clearly identifies those parts of Brunswick County
that the County believes can be adequately serviced within the next
ten years. Services provided to these areas will include, first and
foremost, the county's piped water system. Since 1981, Brunswick
County has been aggressively pursuing the development of a central
piped water supply system to all developing parts of the county.
Due to the large geographic size of Brunswick County and its
relatively scattered, sparse development pattern, a large centralized,
interconnecting sewage collection and treatment system would not be
feasible for many years to come. For this reason, it is more likely that
several smaller systems could be developed to serve, in particular,
the barrier island beach communities and the near shore mainland
' areas just across the intracoastal waterway. The county remains
flexible as to whether these sewer service districts might be handled
by the municipalities themselves, by sanitary districts or by some
combination of the two. In any event, the County would lend its
support in coordinating the efforts of the various authorities or
municipalities in setting up such sewage service districts.
Regarding other services, the County's commitment to law
enforcement through the Sheriffs Department, and to emergency
services through the Emergency Services Department, and through
financial and other support for the volunteer fire departments and
rescue squads, is quite clear (See Sections 1.4.4 and 1.4.5). Also,
the County's substantial dollar investments in water system
infrastructure, and the fairly significant investment in parks facilities, is
the best evidence of the County's strong commitment to providing the
necessary services to support new growth.
Solid waste management, including recycling and disposal, another
key service of the County, is discussed specifically in Section 2.3.16
of this plan.
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2.3.3 Urban Brunswick County's urban growth pattern is strongly influenced by its
Growth Pattern relationship to the Atlantic Coast, the Intracoastal Waterway and, to a
Desired lesser extent, the Cape Fear River. The growth tendencies for various
parts of the county are documented in some detail in section 1.2.2 of
this report. Suffice it to say that the strongest urban level growth has
been occurring and continues to occur in that part of the county
between US 17 and the intracoastal waterway. This is particularly
evident at the end of the county closest to the South Carolina State
line, within striking distance of the Grand Strand.
The location of distribution lines for the County's piped water system
in future years will serve to reinforce this pattern. At the same time,
Section 1.3.2 documented the many fragile natural areas of the
county and their general distribution in relation to these growth areas.
It is therefore in the best economic and environmental interest of the
county to reinforce the existing urban growth pattern. In fact, a review
of the entire plan will reveal that the various actions of the county are
all designed to reinforce this pattern, whether it be the County water
system, road improvements, solid waste recycling centers, fire
protection, or initiatives to develop sewer treatment districts.
The combination of all the factors noted above is clearly reflected in
the land classification map. The land classification map, in turn, is to
be further reinforced by the proposed county zoning ordinance. It is
through the effective use of policies and the land classification map,
combined with growth management tools like the new zoning
ordinance and the updated subdivision regulations, and with a
commitment to provide services to these areas, that the desired
overall urban growth pattern of the county can be achieved.
2.3.4 The 1987 update to the land use plan noted that... "beyond scattered
Redevelopment, historic home restoration, there is little restoration or redevelopment
including activity occurring in the unincorporated areas of Brunswick County"
Relocation of (page 86). For the 1992 update, Planning Board members noted that,
Threatened as the county is maturing, there are a high number of substandard
Structures houses throughout the county in need of rehabilitation.
The County believes that the best way to insure that these structures
will be either removed or rehabilitated is to provide for good jobs and
higher incomes to the permanent residents of the county.
With regard to structures which may be threatened by major storm
events or shore line or beach erosion, most of these situations occur
Brunswick County Planning Board page 107 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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within the incorporated beach municipalities of the county. The
County's policies concerning such situations are presented fully in
Section 2.5 concerning Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster
Recovery, and Evacuation.
2.3.5 CAMA guidelines suggest that local governments address local area
Commitment to commitment to state and federal programs including items such as
State and erosion control, public access, highway improvements, port facilities,
Federal dredging, and military facilities. Brunswick County acknowledges and
Programs supports all such applicable state and federal programs which work to
improve the quality of life and economic development opportunities
for county residents. The County attempts to cooperate and assist in
the implementation of these programs whenever possible.
As identified elsewhere in this plan, many roads and bridges in the
county are in need of improvement. At the same time, the protection
and enhancement of the county's estuarine water resources and
waterborne transportation systems are vital to the long term interests
of the County from both an economic and tourism standpoint.
For these reasons, programs of greatest significance to Brunswick
County include those federal and state programs which would
support improvements to the county's road system and to the county's
water transportation system. Protection and enhancement of water
quality and the fisheries resource are also considered to be top
priorities. The County especially supports the efforts of the US Army
Corps of Engineers for the maintenance of the intracoastal waterway
and the Cape Fear River channel, as well as proposed demonstration
work on the eastern channel of the Lockwood Folly River (More on
this under 2.3.6 below). Obviously, the North Carolina Department of
Transportation's ongoing transportation improvement program is also
of considerable significance to the County.
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2.3.6 Channel As noted immediately above, Brunswick County's waterways are vital
Maintenance to the long term vitality of the county's commercial commerce as well
and Beach as recreational economy. Efforts to maintain the county's waterways
Renourishment are therefore supported to the maximum extent possible, including
activities necessary to provide for the provision of borrow and spoil
areas and the provision of easements when necessary to accomplish
the work. The maintenance dredging of the Shallotte River and the
Lockwood Folly Rivers, in particular, continue to be a priority.
One project of particular interest to the County is the proposed
"demonstration work" related to the opening of the eastern channel of
the Lockwood Folly River. Discussions with a representative of the
US Army Corps of Engineers' revealed the following summary and
status report: The Water Resources Development Act of 1992
included a demonstration project to dredge a 100 foot wide (bottom
width), six foot deep (8 foot overdepth) channel for this location.
However, no specific funding was attached to the project. Rather, the
project must compete nationally with other projects included in the
same bill. At the time of this writing (October 26,1992), the Wilmington
office of the ACOE was within one week of submitting a "study plan
and cost estimate" for the preparation of environmental work and
engineering design for the dredging. Preliminary cost figures for the
initial dredging , exclusive of the engineering work, have been
estimated at one to two million dollars. The ACOE representative
could offer no specifics on the probability that even the preliminary
engineering work would be funded, or when. A specific
implementaion action is included in this plan calling upon the Federal
government to pursue this project with all due speed.
Telephone consultation with Tom Jarret, Chief, Coastal Engineering Branch, US Army Corps
of Engineers, Wilmington, NC Office, October 23,1992.
Brunswick County's beaches, while located entirely within the
incorporated areas of the beach towns, nonetheless have a spill over
economic impact to the balance of the county. Regarding beach
renourishment activities, the county recognizes that there can be a
reciprocal and supporting relationship between beach renourishment
and channel creation and maintenance. The County therefore
supports efforts to coordinate the disposal of spoiled materials, if
appropriate, on to area beaches in their renourishment.
2.3.7 Energy CAMA guidelines suggest that each local government include specific
Facilities policies related to energy facility siting and development. Specific
subjects under this heading include electric generating plants,
inshore and outer continental shelf exploration or energy
development, possibilities for onshore refineries, storage, and trans -
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
shipment, and the potential negative environmental effects from
potential blowouts, spills, etc.
There are currently two major energy producing industries in
Brunswick County --Carolina Power Light and Company and the
Cogentrix Co -generating Plant near Southport. Both of these
industries are valuable economic assets to the county. Future energy
facilities locating in Brunswick County, whether onshore or offshore,
will be required to meet or exceed the standards of design and
operation being used by existing energy facilities. It will be the
burden of any such energy facilities as well as any other major
industries, to prove that their design and operations will have no
significant adverse impacts on the environment or the County's
communities and people.
2.3.8 Tourism The subject of tourism as an economic development industry was a
focal point of discussions during the leadership interviews, as well as
during Planning Board discussions in the early stages of land use
plan preparation. The central issue of discussion revolved around the
type of tourism that the County wishes to promote. Fundamentally, it
was agreed that the County needs to encourage tourism that
generates higher expenditures per tourist visitor. The benefit of such
a strategy is that more dollars will be injected into the local economy
for the benefit of year round residents, while minimizing the number of
visitors it takes to generate a similar level of economic impact.
Ultimately, "wear and tear" on the county's natural environment will
be minimized, while the economic benefits of tourist dollars will
continue to flow into the county.
Contrary to conventional wisdom, the tourism industry can offer high
paying jobs if the tourism market sought after is of high caliber. This
requires restaurants and accommodations offering higher value
services. In turn, the amenities developed (e.g. golf courses, marinas,
ocean front resorts, equestrian facilities, etc.) must be of a quality to
enhance the tourism potential of the county.
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2.3.9 Coastal Brunswick County has in place a recent (1990) Shoreline Access
and Estuarine plan which is comprehensive in scope. As stated in the Plan's
Beach Water introduction, ..."[t]he primary purpose of the plan is to identify sites, set
Access priorities for possible site development, and clarify County policy on
shoreline access, taking into consideration a need to balance
provision of shoreline access by both the public sector and private
sector". (1990 Brunswick County Shoreline Access Plan, Brunswick
County, NC, page 2.)
The following is a summary of the policy section as set forth in the
shoreline access plan:
Waters covered —
In addition to ocean and estuarine waters, access should also
be provided to fresh water rivers and lakes.
Jurisdictional coverage —
The plan addresses all unincorporated areas of the county plus
the Town of Sunset Beach, which agreed to be included in the
plan's provisions, inaddition to creating their own access plan.
Government involvement in providing shoreline access —
The plan acknowledges that the private development sector
oftentimes provides the greatest measure of shoreline access.
The plan suggests that the county's "bigger" needs, not met by
the private sector, should be addressed by the state and
federal government. The County's involvement, at least from a
financial standpoint, will be considered on a case by case
basis.
No Exercise of Eminent Domain —
Powers of eminent domain shall not be used to acquire any
interest in land necessary for shoreline access.
User Fees —
The County supports the employment of user fees to recover
the cost of providing shoreline access facilities and for their
operation and maintenance.
Forms of Shoreline Access —
The plan listed the following forms of shoreline access for
which no need was identified, at least within the County's
unincorporated jurisdiction: oceanfront, swimming, pedestrian,
sailing, and bicycle access.
Forms of shoreline access for which the County felt the private
sector should be responsible included: boat berthing and
dock/pier access.
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Shoreline access facilities for which a need was identified and
for which the County should actively support financially or
otherwise, included: fishing reefs, visual access (especially to
rivers), and boat ramps, including specific recreational
amenities such as picnic benches and tables, shelters, and
playground equipment.
The plan further stated that while each of the first mentioned
specific access facilities were ruled out for County support, the
County did feel that such amenities might be developed in
conjunction with boat ramp sites as an incidental recreational
use.
No Publicly Owned Shorelines To Be Sold or Leased —
All current publicly owned shoreline lands should be retained
for some form of public use and enjoyment, rather than being
sold off for private development.
Maintenance/Policing of Shoreline Access Facilities —
The plan calls upon various involved state agencies to do a
better job of maintaining their existing boat ramp facilities in the
County.
Better Utilization of Existing Access Grounds —
The plan calls for the expansion of existing boat ramp facilities
within existing sites where adequate space is available.
Shoreline Plan as an Element of the County's Comprehensive Plan —
The 1990 Brunswick County Shoreline Access Plan is one
element of Brunswick County's Comprehensive Plan, of which
the CAMA land use plan is also a part.
rNeed for Flexibility —
The plan emphasizes the need for flexibility with regard to
specific sites or future access opportunities not yet identified.
Relationship to Major Thoroughfare Plan —
The plan suggests that access opportunities be sought as all
elements of the major thoroughfare plan are executed.
The plan also includes a total of 43 existing or potential shoreline
access sites identified in map form.
On January 25, 1990, a work session was held with the County
Commissioners and County Planning Board to discuss 14 of the sites
for possible first phase development access. The previously
mentioned policy statements for the access plan were adopted by the
County on February 5, 1990 with adoption of the entire draft occurring
on February 19, 1990.
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2.3.10 As noted in section 1.2, Brunswick County issued approximately
Residential 5,000 building permits for residential structures between November
Development 1987 and the end of calendar year 1991. Of this total, over 4,000
permits were issued for the placement of manufactured housing
(mobile homes). At the same time, the County reviewed some 193
subdivision plats involving over 12,000 lots. While these numbers do
not include permits issued within the incorporated municipalities of
the county, they reveal the magnitude of growth, especially regarding
new mobile home placements in the county.
The County therefore supports efforts to diversify its housing stock to
include more single family and multi family homes in a variety of
development densities and types. The County is especially interested
in seeing such development directed toward areas where urban
services are presently in place or can be in place within the next 10
years. These areas are identified on the land classification map as
urban transition and limited transition areas. (See Section 3 for more
details.)
2.3.11 Section 1.2.2 summarized the situation regarding commercial
Commercial development in Brunswick County. As residential development has
Development spread throughout the County, so too has commercial development.
This is most evident along the more highly traveled roads leading
from US 17 to the County's ocean beaches. Such stripping of the
roadway provides maximum exposure to the traveling public and
allows developers to pick scattered sites where real estate prices are
less competitive. Unfortunately, strip commercial development has
many public costs:
(1) The use and efficiency of the highway is diminished by the
number of driveway cuts and turnouts onto the highway. This can
cause an unpredictable flow of traffic, resulting in congestion and
increased accidents. In most instances, it eventually results in the
loss of the highway for its originally intended purpose, that of moving
traffic through the County. Parallel roads must then be built at
additional public expense —at a time when public coffers are straining
to meet competing demands.
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(2) This strip commercial development pattern is also more costly to
service with regard to the extension of water and sewer lines, police
and fire protection, and trash collection.
(3) Strip commercialization inevitably leads to visual blight due to a
proliferation of signs, variable setbacks, unplanned parking areas
with minimal landscaping, etc.
Such strip commercialization was identified as a major concern by
residents at the public workshops. Fortunately, it is also something
that can be addressed by a zoning ordinance— if adequate and
enforceable provisions controlling strip commercialization are
provided. It remains to be seen how effective the County's upcoming
zoning ordinance may be in this regard after it emerges from the
public and political review process.
2.3.12 Closely related to controlling commercial strip development along the
Beautification county's highways, is the issue of beautification. In large measure,
Brunswick County's highways, whether US 17 North and South or the
several highways leading to the county's beach communities, are
what most travelers see when visiting the county. If the county is to be
successful in recruiting a higher caliber visitor to the area, thereby
increasing the economic condition of county residents providing
services to the visitor, then the issue of highway beautification must
take on a high level of importance.
2.3.13 Airports Brunswick County has two general purpose airports, (identified on the
community facilities map) with no commercial carrier service. Ocean
Isle Beach Airport is located within the extraterritorial planning
jurisdiction of The Town of Ocean Isle Beach. Brunswick County
Airport is located within the planning jurisdiction of the Southeastern
Sanitary District; the County's previously prepared airspace zoning
will continue to be enforced by the County. Both facilities have
prepared Master Airport Plans which have been accepted by the FAA
and the State aeronautics board. Air service expansion is seen as
necessary to improve both traditional industrial development as well
as tourist and second home visitation. It is essential that land uses
adjacent to airport development and expansion areas be compatible
with this most important service.
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2.3.14 Education Of all the policy categories contained in this plan, education is the
category least related, in a traditional planning sense, with the
preparation of a land use plan. In fact, in most land use plans,
education would not even be included as a subject for policy
development. In the broadest context of Brunswick County, however,
education is at the very heart of the community's future. Few other
factors, including transportation, utilities, land suitability, etc. can
compare with the influence that education has over the area's
prospects for positive economic development.
In today's industrial recruitment world, it comes as no surprise that a
strong educational system is critical in attracting new industries to an
area. One of the major factors that a company considers when
making a relocation or expansion decision is not only the work ethic
of the local labor force, but also the level of educational attainment
and perceived trainability of area workers. With rapidly changing
technologies, it is important that employees be able to adapt to these
situations and to progress as technologies change.
As first noted in the leadership interviews conducted during the early
stages of this plan, Brunswick County's hopes for economic
development are being stymied by a labor force which lacks the basic
educational skills necessary to survive in the increasingly technical
workplace of the 1990's. Despite efforts to improve the local school
system over the past decade or more, leaders interviewed were
discouraged that Brunswick County ranks near the bottom of the state
which, in turn, ranks at the bottom of the nation in terms of education.
Generally, the County's school facilities (i.e. buildings) are good, and
the County has shown a commitment to maintaining its rapid pace of
new facility construction to keep up with Brunswick County's
incredible growth rate. Unlike many other counties also ranked
poorly in education, Brunswick County does not appear to be lacking
the financial resources necessary to support a quality school system.
(See Section 1.2.1)
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2.3.15 Retirees The influence of retirees on the economy and quality of life in
Brunswick County was a central item of discussion during the
leadership interviews conducted for the land use plan. The explosion
of the retiree population in Brunswick County in recent years brings
certain blessings to the area. For example, retirees oftentimes bring
sizable bank accounts, and increase the tax base by the cost of the
real estate assets they secure. The money they spend is also less
sensitive to recessions, in that they tend to be on fixed incomes
unaffected by swings in the national economy. Retirees also bring
many talents with them which have the potential for great
social/cultural impact if brought to bear.
On the other hand, there are some potential downside factors which
can also be associated with retirees. First, while many retirees do
bring sizable monetary assets with them, others may come with
relatively limited resources— being able to afford only modest
housing on a relatively inexpensive lot. As a result, the limited
property assets of some retirees may simply require more in County
services than they can provide in local tax dollars.
Second, relatively wealthy retirees are retiring younger in the belief
that they have sufficient nest eggs available to carry them through
their retirement years; unfortunately, many of these retirees have not
been able to anticipate the exorbitant increases in medical costs
which can quickly consume their savings. It is known, for example,
that as the County's retirement population has grown, so too has the
number of retirees applying for aid from the County's Social Service
programs.
Third, it has been mentioned that retirees bring many talents with
them; retired executives could offer their talents, for example, to the
development of small businesses. They could also help out in the
public schools, at hospitals, libraries, etc. In light of these needs,
more area retirees should come forward to apply their talents in
Brunswick County.
Finally, while retirees place no strain on the local schools, this
population group is also not quick to support measures to improve the
schools, particularly when it involves taxes. They may feel as if they
have already paid for the education of their own grown children, and
do not wish to pay for the education of yet another generation. A
county that has a very large retirement population may, therefore, find
itself in a situation where it is very difficult to get a school bond
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referendum passed. Over the next ten years, Brunswick County may
approach a retirement population which could exact such pressure on
Brunswick County's already much -maligned school system.
2.3.16 Waste Waste Management, including all forms —human, animal, solid,
Management industrial, construction materials, etc. was identified as one of the
highest priority issues during the public input meetings held during
the early stages of plan preparation. Residents of the County
apparently recognize that the manner in which wastes are collected
and disposed will have a long term impact on the quality of life in
Brunswick County.
Several specific waste management issues deserve special attention.
First, the issue of sewage treatment, previously addressed under its
own section, is foremost in the minds of many residents. So long as
the County is primarily dependent upon individual septic tanks for its
sewage treatment and disposal, many feel that economic
development prospects for the County and environmental quality of
the County's water resources will continue to suffer.
Second, animal waste has been identified as a concern, due to the
emergence of livestock operations of increasingly large scales in
many parts of the state.
Third, solid waste continues to be a big issue, given the
environmentally fragile nature of most of the county's land area.
Opportunities for regional cooperation in solving the solid waste
management issue may be especially beneficial to Brunswick County,
particularly if the County continues to grow at the rapid pace of the
last two decades.
Brunswick County industries generate huge amounts of industrial
waste, the disposal needs for which are handled largely by the
industries themselves. As such they are less apt to be a subject of
general public knowledge, but the waste is being generated and
disposed of nonetheless.
Finally, the disposal of construction related materials is a problem
which is somewhat unique to Brunswick County, given the high levels
of construction activity occurring in this rapidly growing county. The
County's collection stations, for example, have in the past been
overwhelmed by the actions of contractors unloading huge amounts
of construction materials at a single collection point, thereby usurping
the ability of local residents to dispose of household trash at that
location.
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2.3.17 Growth For the past several years, Brunswick County has been in the process
and of revising, improving and, in some instances, creating new land use
Development controls. Several development trends in the area are causing the
Controls County to reassess the adequacy of its existing regulations to guide
and control future development. For example, the rate of placement
of mobile homes in the County has exploded in recent years, far
outdistancing the pace of conventional single family construction in
the area.
Whereas early development in the County was most often
concentrated on the best available soils in terms of the septic tank
suitability and drainage, newer developments have been moving into
marginally suitable soils. There is also increasing recognition of the
problem of previously platted lots in private ownership. Many of these
lots are known now to be unsuitable for development.
At the early public meetings regarding the development of the land
use plan, the need for improvement in the County's existing land use
controls, particular the need for zoning, was evident from the
comments received from area residents. Comments included the
need to require larger lot sizes, to adopt stricter design criteria, to
prevent objectionable commercial uses from moving in immediately
next door to residences, to better manage mobile home placements,
and to halt the hodge podge of commercial strip development which
has proliferated along the County's major roadways.
As noted during the leadership interviews, Brunswick County's
economic future is based in no small measure on the kind of physical
environment and image which, ultimately, will determine the quality of
industries and the caliber of tourist and retiree drawn to the area. US
17 and the roads leading to the County's beaches are especially
important corridors which will require careful land use planning and
zoning controls.
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From another perspective, people are unwilling to invest sizable
dollars in real estate with little or no assurance that an old mobile
home, junkyard, or repair garage, for example, could move in next
door. The County Commissioners, through their directive to the
County Planning Director to prepare a new zoning ordinance, have
expressed their desire to institute some form of zoning in the near
future. It will not be an easy task, and there will no doubt be pressure
to water down or discard the proposed zoning ordinance altogether.
For all of the reasons identified above, this plan recommends that
every effort be made to establish zoning and that a deliberate,
extensive public education program be initiated to make the public
aware of its advantages.
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2.4 PUBLIC
PARTICIPATION
POLICIES
The public participation plan and program for the Brunswick County
land use plan is discussed fully in section 5 of this document. For the
sake of completeness, however, a summary of the importance of
public participation in the Brunswick County land use plan is included
here.
Since its inception, North Carolina's Coastal Area Management Act
land use planning program has placed a high level of emphasis on
public participation in the development of local use plans and
policies. The intent is to insure that the resulting plan and policies
reflect, as closely as possible, the will of the people in the community.
Two key elements must be included in any effective public
participation program: (1) public education, and (2) public
involvement. The most effective format for public participation
involves two way communication between citizens and local planning
officials.
The public participation strategy employed in the development of the
Brunswick County land use plan involved a variety of activities.
Included were a series of town meetings held in five different
locations in the County for the convenience of the attending public.
Numerous meetings with the County Planning Board, all advertised
and open to the public, focused the Board's attention on the plan and
its policies. It should also be noted that the Planning Board was
pleased at the level of newspaper coverage given to the development
of the plan including, particularly, frequent articles appearing in the
Brunswick Beacon, the Myrtle Beach Sun News, the State Port Pilot
and the Wilmington Star News. Random feedback received during
the course of the plan's preparation revealed that several of these
well written and timely news articles were effective in catching the
attention of the interested public.
CAMA planning guidelines suggest that public participation policies
be discussed in three categories; (1) public education, (2) citizen
input in developing policy and (3) ongoing public participation and
planning. The following policies are designed to address these
suggested headings.
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' 2.5 STORM
HAZARD
MITIGATION,
POST -
DISASTER
RECOVERY AND
EVACUATION
PLAN
' Introduction Brunswick County, like so many other coastal counties, is especially
vulnerable to the damaging effects of hurricanes Because of this
vulnerability, the county must devise means by which development
can be managed to mitigate the hazards associated with hurricanes.
To achieve this objective, hazardous areas must. be mapped to
assess the county's vulnerability to damage. Further, existing
mitigation measures must be reviewed and periodically improved.
' Description of
the Effects of
Coastal Storms
Flooding Flooding is a hazard along the many rivers in unincorporated
' Brunswick County, as well as in the area immediately adjacent to the
Intracoastal Waterway. Since much of this area is attractive for
residential development, there is considerable private investment in
these flood prone areas.
FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps identify those areas of land with a
one percent chance of flood inundation in any given year. Flooding in
areas closest to the ocean can be the result of high waters associated
with storm surge, i.e. water that is pushed upstream by strong winds
off the ocean. Some flooding on small tributaries, however, can also
be attributed to heavy rainfall over a short period of time.
Storm Surge The potential for storm surge flooding in Brunswick County has been
and Wave Action studied by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Developed areas
in Brunswick subject to the destructive effects of storm surge and wave action are
County located within the incorporated beach communities of the county. The
Special Program to List the Amplitude of Surge from Hurricanes
(SPLASH) model was used to map Storm Surge Inundation Areas so
that evacuation studies could be made. The SPLASH map shows
surge levels based on class one through five hurricanes. By using
these maps, local emergency management authorities can plan
' evacuation routes based on anticipated inundation levels. The
SPLASH map is available for inspection at the Brunswick County
Planning Office.
The most populated unincoroorated areas of the county are generally
not subject to flooding or storm surge. These areas include: the
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
Leland area, the area between Southport and Oak Island, and much
of the area near the Intracoastal Waterway from the Lockwood Folly
River westward to the South Carolina state line. Lands immediately
abutting the waterway are subject to flooding, however, as identified
on the "Existing Development at Risk" map. These comprise a small
percentage of the total developed area of the unincorporated county
(See Map).
Winds Hurricane force winds and wind blown debris can cause serious
damage to buildings and other possessions as well as damage to
overhead utilities. Brunswick County is located in a zone identified by
the State Building Code as having a reasonable expectation of
having 100 mph winds from a hurricane. The State Building Code
requires that any new structure built in the county be able to withstand
winds of 100 mph. The Building Code sets standards for design,
anchorage and tie downs for structures.
Composite The Composite Hazards Map includes areas identified on the FEMA
Hazards Map Flood Insurance Rate Map as being within the 100 year flood zone
and areas identified by the Storm Surge Inundation Areas Map. It
serves as a general guide as to where flooding could occur; however,
it should not be used for site specific land use interpretation since
detailed elevation information is not provided.
Existing Development in Brunswick County has historically taken place in a
Development at sweeping pattern that runs east of NC 87 in the northeast, and south
Risk of US 17 along the ocean shore of the county. For the past ten years,
the greatest amount of development has been occurring in those
areas adjacent to the beach communities, the Intracoastal Waterway
and the rivers. This growth is reflected, in large measure, by
summertime populations rather than permanent populations.
As stated earlier, there is considerable development at risk located
within the flood hazard areas of the incorporated beach communities.
There are, however, no recurring flooding problems on the mainland.
Highway 17 in the Winnabow area has in the past, been subject to
flooding during extreme rainfalls. It is hoped that recent
improvements to this road will have alleviated the problem. There are
other isolated drainage problems that usually are associated with
small area drainage basins.
None of the potentially hazardous industries located in Brunswick
County (Sunny Point Army Terminal, which stores and transfers
hazardous materials, Carolina Power and Light nuclear facility, and
Arthur, Daniels, Midland Company which produces citric acid) are
located in flood hazard areas. These facilities are all located on
Highways 87 and 133 near Southport.
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' In terms of residential development, it is no coincidence that the same
environmental conditions and geographic locations that make the
County so susceptible to hurricanes, also make the County very
' attractive for seasonal, second home and permanent populations.
Land development in flood prone areas will continue to occur as the
tourism/retirement economy of Brunswick County continues to
' expand. The County estimated that in 1985 there were residential
structures valued at approximately $41.2 million within flood prone
areas. By 1987 Planning Department estimates indicated the value of
' all structures within flood prone areas to be nearly $58 million. By
simple extrapolation, it could be estimated that the total value of such
structures in 1992 is over $100 million.
2.5.1 Storm Storm hazard mitigation involves "activities which reduce the
Hazard probability that a disaster will occur, and minimize the damage
Mitigation caused by a disaster. Such activities can range from the
' establishment of a nationwide hurricane tracking system to the
adoption of local land use regulations which discourage residential
construction in flood prone areas. Mitigation activities are not geared
to a specific disaster; they result from a long-term concern for avoiding
the damages of future natural disasters". (McElyea, et al, Before The
Storm: Managing Development to Reduce Hurricane Damages,
1982).
Current Regarding applicable land use and building regulations, current
Measures storm hazard mitigation measures are incorporated in various County
and State ordinances and guidelines including the following:
- Brunswick County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
- Brunswick County Building Code Ordinance.
- Brunswick County Subdivision Ordinance.
' - Brunswick County Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
- CAMA Guidelines for Areas of Environmental Concern.
- NC Residential Building Code.
Flood Damage Brunswick County regulates development in flood hazard areas
Prevention primarily through the flood plain management regulations which are
Ordinance outlined in Article 5, Articles A-E in Ordinance No. 62, An Ordinance
Enacting a Building Code for Brunswick County, North Carolina.
CAMA All development occurring in AEC areas must conform to state
Guidelines for guidelines, which serve to discourage inappropriate development
AEC's forms in these areas.
Brunswick The Brunswick County Building Code Ordinance, enacted April, 1985,
County Building contains an element entitled "Provisions for Flood Hazard Reduction,
Code Ordinance (Article 5). This section cites the requirements for new construction or
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substantial improvements in areas of special flood hazard. A
summary of these requirements follows:
General Standards:
All structures shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or
lateral movement.
Construction materials and utility equipment must be resistant
to flood damage.
Construction shall be by methods and practices that minimize
flood damage.
All new replacement water supply systems shall be designed
to minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the
system.
New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be
designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters
into the systems and discharges from the systems into flood
waters.
On -site waste disposal systems (e.g. septic) shall be located
and constructed to avoid impairment to them or contamination
from them during flooding.
Specific Standards:
Residential structures shall have the lowest floor, including
basement, elevated no lower than (1) foot above flood
elevation.
Non-residential structures shall be either elevated no lower
than (1) foot above the 100 year base flood elevation or be
flood proofed. A registered professional engineer or architect
must certify compliance with these standards.
No mobile home shall be placed in a floodway or coastal high
hazard area, except in an existing mobile home park or
existing mobile home subdivision.
All mobile homes shall be anchored to resist flotation, collapse,
or lateral movement by providing over -the -top and frame ties to
ground anchors.
In new mobile home parks and subdivisions, stands or lots
must be elevated on compacted fill or on pilings so that the
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lowest floor of the mobile home will be at or above the base
flood level.
' The design and installation of anchorings and pilings must be
certified by a registered professional engineer or architect.
' No alteration of frontal dunes or use of fill for structural support
shall occur in the V zone, except as may be specifically
allowed under applicable CAMA regulations.
' Open space or breakaway walls (e.g. lattice work) must be
used below base flood elevations in V and A zones.
' Brunswick The Brunswick County Subdivision Ordinance, which was first
County adopted in 1980, was until recently little more than a registration
Subdivision ordinance for new divisions of land. It contained few specific design
Ordinance criteria for the approval or disapproval of new subdivisions. Only
streets that were to be dedicated to the State required design and
construction standards. In 1991, however, the ordinance was
substantially revised to include specific development standards,
including specific requirements for drainage. The ordinance does not
include any specific language concerning flood hazard concerns,
' other than a requirement that the 100-year flood level be shown on
the plat.
NC Uniform The North Carolina Uniform Residential Building Code is the tool that
Residential the County uses to manage development to minimize potential wind
Building Code damage. The County does not have the authority to modify the
' Building Code to better meet its needs. Under the laws of the State,
each county must enforce these uniform regulations.
Zoning and Brunswick County does not yet have a zoning ordinance in effect in
Growth the unincorporated area. Without a zoning ordinance, the County
Management does not possess the primary means available to local governments
for controlling the location and design of different land uses and
development forms.
It is apparent that the zoning ordinance is a major remaining need of
the County, in relation to storm hazard mitigation, as well as a number
of other development issues. County -wide zoning could serve as an
effective tool to guide growth and development to areas which would
' be less susceptible to storm hazards.
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Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
Storm Hazard
Mitigation
Policies
2.5.2 Post Post disaster reconstruction policies are required as part of the land
Disaster use plan to guide development during the reconstruction period
Reconstruction following a disaster so that the community, as it is rebuilt, is less
vulnerable to coastal storms than it was before the disaster.
In accordance with CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines, this section
discusses post disaster reconstruction policies according to the
following five categories:
1- The County Emergency Management Plan, especially the
preparation and response sections.
2- Local policies which will direct reconstruction over a longer
period of time.
3- The establishment of a "recovery task force" to oversee the
reconstruction process and any policy issues which might
arise after a storm disaster.
4- The establishment of a schedule for staging and permitting
repairs, including the imposition of moratoria, according to
established priorities assigned to the restoration of central
services, minor repairs, major repairs and new development.
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5- The establishment of policies for repair and or replacement
of public infrastructure including relocation to less hazardous
areas.
Emergency Given the large number of incorporated towns in Brunswick County, a
Management primary concern immediately following a major storm event is county -
Plan wide coordination of post disaster reconstruction activities. This is
especially important for the beach communities, given the
vulnerability of their position along the oceanfront. To insure that
there is coordination between the various municipalities and county
government, the County Emergency Management Coordinator acts
as a liaison between the County and other local governments on
emergency preparedness matters.
As noted in the CAMA guidelines, it should not be the intent of this
plan to reiterate Brunswick County's Emergency Management Plan.
However, it may be useful to review current procedures for assessing
damages immediately following a storm. These procedures provide
the framework within which officials must carry out recovery activities.
The major federal legislation geared towards disasters is the Disaster
Relief Act of 1974. The steps to be taken after a major storm event are
as follows:
1- Local damage assessment teams survey the effected areas
to determine the extent of storm damage within the
community.
2- Damage information is compiled and the nature and extent
of damage is reported to the North Carolina Division of
Emergency Management.
3- The DEM evaluates the damage information and advises the
governor of the seriousness of the situation.
4- The Governor may declare a state of emergency and put the
state's Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan into effect, as
well as direct state resources as needed.
5- If it is determined by the governor that the severity of the
situation exceeds the capabilities of state and local
government, the Governor may ask the President, via FEMA
to declare an "emergency" or "major disaster'.
6- Federal relief assistance given to a community after a
declaration of an emergency usually ends one month after
the initial Presidential declaration. Federal assistance for
emergency work after a major disaster has been declared
typically ends six months after the declaration and federal
assistance for permanent work ends after eighteen months.
From the County's perspective, one of the most important local
government responsibilities is the coordination of a local damage
assessment team. This team must necessarily be comprised of
individuals capable of giving reliable estimates on the original value
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of structures, the value amount of damages sustained, and an
account of repairs. Due to the vast amount of land and structures
found in the unincorporated area, this calls for the organization of
several assessment teams. The following are recommended team
members as delineated in the Brunswick County Disaster Relief and
Assistance Plan.
1- Plan Property Survey Team
Building and Grounds
Parks and Recreation Department Representative
Building Standard and Code Enforcer
Architect
2- Business and Industry Survey Team
Tax Collector
Building Inspector
Realtor
Volunteer Fireman
3- Private Dwellings Survey Team
Tax Supervisor
Volunteer Fireman
Realtor
Architect
4- Private Dwellings Survey Team
Building Contractor
Civil Engineer
Realtor
Architect
It is extremely important that the status of damage assessment teams
be updated on a frequent basis to maintain an accurate file.
Damage Damage assessment is a rapid means of determining, to the best
Assessment extent possible, an estimate of the amount of damage caused by
Procedures and either a natural or man made disaster. In the event of a major storm, it
Requirements is expressed in terms of:
1- The total number of structures damaged
2- The extent of damage by type of structure
3- The estimated total dollar loss
4- The estimated total dollar loss covered by insurance.
During the assessment, damaged structures should be classified in
accordance to the following suggested state guidelines:
Destroyed repairs that would cost more than 80% of the structures
value.
Major repairs that would cost 30% of the structures value.
Minor repairs that would cost less than 30% of the structures
value, but the structure is presently uninhabitable.
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Habitable minor damage, with repairs less than 15% of the
structures value.
' The damage assessment team will color code tax maps according to
the damage classification scheme outlined in the preceding
paragraph.
Destroyed red;
Major orange;
' Minor yellow;
Habitable green.
' In the second phase of the damage assessment operation, estimates
of the value of sustained damages would be calculated. This phase
would be completed in the Office of Emergency Management under
the supervision of the Emergency Management Coordinator.
The information on the value of damages sustained should be
derived through the following recommended methodology.
' 1- The number of businesses and residential structures that
have been damaged within unincorporated areas of the
' county should be summarized by damage classification
category.
2- The value of each damaged structure should be obtained
from a market set of tax maps and multiplied by the following
percentages for appropriate classification category.
Destroyed - 100%; major damage - 50%; minor damage -
' 25% and habitable - 10%.
3- The total value of damages for unincorporated areas of the
county should then be summarized.
4- The estimated value loss covered by hazard insurance
' should then be determined (a) estimating full coverage for all
damage structures where the average value of such
coverage exceeds the amount of damage to the structure
and (b) multiplying the number of structures where damage
exceeds the average value of insurance coverage by the
average value of such coverage.
5- Damage to public roads and utility systems should be
estimated by utilizing current construction costs for facilities
by linear foot (e.g. 10' water line replacement cost = xs/I.f.)
The procedures recommended above provide a relatively time
efficient and uncomplicated means by which to estimate overall
property damage. For this method to be used, however, it is
necessary that flood insurance information be obtained and that the
value of each structure be placed on tax maps.
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Local Policies to William D. McElyea, et al, in their booklet "Before the Storm:
Direct Managing Development to Reduce Hurricane Damages" discuss
Reconstruction many of the issues that local governments must confront in setting
policies for reconstruction following a major storm event. The authors
note that reconstruction strategies pursued by community are too
often poorly defined. For this reason, it is suggested that each
community ask itself a series of questions when planning for long
term reconstruction:
1- Should there be changes in land use?
When particular sections of a community are severely damaged by a
disaster, land use decisions are the most important ones a local
government can face. For this reason it is suggested that the local
government prepare a set of post disaster land development
guidelines before disaster strikes to help the community resolve these
issues beforehand, make quick and sound decisions immediately
after the disaster, and recover smoothly from the damages.
2- Should there be changes in the building code?
A natural disaster provides the opportunity for testing whether or not
the community's building code is adequate to reasonably protect
residential, commercial, and public structures. As with land use
changes, building code decisions need to be made quickly (or if
possible, before the disaster) if they are going to have any effect on
the community's future safety.
3- Should there be a concerted effort to make the community more
efficient and more attractive?
This issue is closely related to the land use and building code issue
and arises where extensive damages create the possibility for
relocating or redesigning transportation and utility networks and
residential and commercial structures. Because such post disaster
improvements will take place incrementally and will be molded by
compromise, large scale master plans in advance are not
recommended.
4- Should there be compensation or special financial assistance for
private property losses? -
In most instances, guidelines and stipulations for reconstruction
grants and low interest loans are controlled by the federal, state, and
other outside agencies providing the funds; the local government is
not typically heavily involved in this aspect of reconstruction.
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5- How should increased local public expenditures be financed?
The repair and reconstruction of damaged roads, utilities and public
' buildings after a disaster will substantially increase local government
expenditures while property damages and reduced business activity
will decrease the flow of local tax revenues. This situation may
require a wholesale reconsideration of revenue generating sources,
including special assessments, special tax districts, user fees, etc.
' Also regarding land use controls, most communities already have
guidelines for reconstruction in their land use regulations and
building codes. These guidelines apply to "non -conforming" land
uses and to structures which were built before the building code was
adopted. Communities need to pay more attention to such common
tools in adopting measures to reduce future damages.
' In summary, the author's note that recovery efforts will be enhanced if
key issues are resolved before the disaster strikes.
Establishment of State guidelines suggest that a recovery task force be appointed to
Recovery Task guide restoration and reconstruction activities during the post
Force emergency phase. This task force may be active from a period of a
' few weeks up to one year. The responsibilities of this group will be as
follows:
' 1. Develop a restoration schedule.
2. Set priorities concerning restoration.
3. Obtain a pre -disaster agreement between the localities and
t the County that covers the role of local officials and County
officials during a disaster.
4. Determine the need for outside assistance and request such
assistance when it is needed.
5. Keep state officials abreast of conditions through the use of
Situation and Damage Reports.
' 6. Maintain accurate records of activities and expenditures
through the use of standardized forms that will be available
at the Office of Emergency Management.
' 7. Pronounce a local "State of Emergency" if such a
determination is warranted.
8. Authorize debris removal and restoration of public utilities.
' (In the case of private utility companies, the Task Force will
act as coordinator for restoration activities.)
9. Commence the repair and restoration of public facilities and
services in order of need.
10. Keep an up-to-date listing of various types of federal and
state assistance that may be available to private businesses
and individual property owners.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 132 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
11. Organize personnel to assist disaster victims in
understanding the different types of assistance available and
in applying for such assistance.
Because of the variety of duties that this Task Force must perform, it is
necessary that it be composed of a cross section of the public. The
Task Force should include the following persons:
Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners
Brunswick County Manager
Emergency Management Coordinator
County Tax Appraiser
County Finance Director
County Building Inspector
County Engineer
Minor CAMA Permit Officer
Finally, State and Federal agencies will need to confer with the State
Major CAMA Permit Officer during local recovery planning efforts.
Schedule for It is not possible to devise a rigid schedule for local recovery
Staging and decisions before a storm occurs due to the unpredictability of those
Permitting events. The amount of time that it takes to assess storm damages and
Repairs make reconstruction decisions directly correlates with the level of
damage caused in the community.
It is possible, however, to establish a sequence of activities that the
County will need to follow in assessing damages and granting
permits for repairs and reconstruction. The sequence of activities that
follows should be reviewed by the recovery task force and be
adjusted as necessary after damage assessment operations have
been completed. The larger the storm, the more likely the time frame
will have to be extended.
ACTIVITY
1. Complete Initial Damage
Assessment
2. Begin repairs to Critical Utilities
and Facilities
3. Assess, Classify and Map Damages
4. Summarize Reconstruction
Priorities and Develop Master
Reconstruction Schedule
TIME FRAME
Immediately after storm is
over
As soon as possible
after storm is over
Complete by second
week after the storm
Complete one week after
second phase damage
assessment is completed
Brunswick County Planning Board page 133 Glenn Harbeck Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Policies For Growth and Development
Repairs/Replace Following a major storm event, damages to public infrastructure may
Mont
of Public
be extensive. This may require the replacement and or relocation of
Infrastructure
roads, water and sewer facilities, and other utilities. Relocation of
'
these capital facilities may be necessary to place the facilities in a
less hazardous location, or to better serve a land area which has
been re configured by storm erosion or accretion. In any event, the
provision, extension and timing of public utilities such as piped water
and sewer can be an effective growth management and storm hazard
mitigation tool by encouraging redevelopment to occur on lands
better suited for urban level growth.
Post -Disaster
Reconstruction
Policies
0
F
1
irl
Brunswick County Planning Board page 134 Glenn Harbeck Associates
0

1
I
3. Land Classification
7
I
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1

1 3. Land Classification
I
3.1 Purpose of A land classification system has been developed to assist in the
Land implementation of the policies set forth in Section 2 of this Plan. By
Classification delineating land classes on a map, areas can be identified where
and Relationship certain policies (local, state and federal) will apply. The land
to Policies classification system is intended to be supported and complemented
by zoning, subdivision and other local growth management tools;
these local tools should be consistent with the classification system as
much as possible. Although specific areas are outlined on a land
classification map, it must be remembered that land classification is
merely a tool to help implement policies and is not, in the strict sense
of the term, a regulatory mechanism.
The land classification map for Brunswick County is provided at the
back of this document. The general geographic application of each
land class in the county is also provided as a part of each categorical
description below. The designation of land classes allows the County
to illustrate its policy statements as to where and at what density
growth should occur, and where natural and cultural resources
should be conserved by guiding growth.
3.2 Overview of The basic land classification system (as presented in the State
Land guidelines for land use planning) includes seven classes: Developed,
Classification Urban Transition, Limited Transition, Community, Rural, Rural with
System Services, and Conservation. The guidelines allow local governments
to subdivide these classes into more specific subclasses if they
choose. In keeping with this provision, Brunswick County has elected
to create a special sub -class of the Rural classification entitled Rural -
Industrial, as explained later in this section.
Some classes may not apply to each local government. For example,
in the case of unincorporated Brunswick County, no Developed areas
are designated. Rather, these areas are more properly reserved to
the more densely developed and serviced incorporated municipalities
of the County. Similarly, the Community or Rural class, used
extensively in the unincorporated area, may not apply in several of
the incorporated municipalities.
The State guidelines also encourage local governments to make
some distinction between Urban Transition areas, which are intended
to reflect intensely developing areas with the full range of urban
services anticipated, and Limited Transition areas that are less
intensely developed, may have private services, and are frequently
Brunswick County Planning Board page 135 Glenn Harbeck Associates

located in a rural landscape. Both of these classes have been
employed in Brunswick County. ,
In creating the land classification map, this plan has given particular
attention to how, where and when certain types and intensities of
development will be encouraged or discouraged. As stated
previously, urban land uses and higher intensity uses requiring the
full range of urban services (i.e. Developed areas) have been
reserved to the planning areas of the county's incorporated
municipalities. Areas developing or anticipated to develop at urban
densities, eventually requiring urban services, have been classified
as Urban Transition or Limited Transition. Low density development
in settlements which will not require sewer services has been
classified as Community. Agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction and
other similar low intensity uses, including very low density, dispersed
residential uses, have been classified Rural.
Additionally, certain land areas, which would otherwise qualify under
the general Rural classification, have been specifically earmarked as
Rural -Industrial, in recognition of their general use or suitability for
industrial development. Finally, areas generally known to be regularly
flooded or containing areas of significant or valuable natural
resources, have been designated Conservation. Detailed
descriptions of each land class, in accordance with the general
guidelines found in T15A: 07B .0200 of the North Carolina
Administrative Code, follow.
3.3 Descriptions
of Individual
Land Classes
3.3.1 (A) Purpose.
Developed: The purpose of the Developed class is to provide for continued
intensive development and redevelopment of existing cities, towns
and their urban environs.
(B) Description and Characteristics.
Areas meeting the intent of the Developed classification are currently
urban in character where minimal undeveloped land remains and
have in place, or are scheduled for the timely provision of, the usual
municipal or public services. "Urban in character" includes mixed land
uses such as residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and
other uses at high to moderate densities. Services generally include
water, sewer, recreational facilities, streets and roads, police and fire
protection. In some instances, an area may not have all the traditional
urban services in place, but if it otherwise has a developed character
and is scheduled for the timely provision of these services, it still
meets the intent of the Developed classification. Areas developed for
Brunswick County Planning Board page 136 Glenn Harbeck Associates

predominantly residential purposes meet the intent of this
classification if they exhibit:
1. a density of 3 or more dwelling units per acre; or
2. a majority of lots of 15,000 square feet or less, which are
provided or scheduled to be provided with the traditional urban
services; and/or
3. permanent population densities which are high and
seasonal populations which may swell significantly.
(C) Application in Brunswick County
This land class is reserved to the incorporated municipalities of the
County. With three exceptions (Bald Head Island, Sandy Creek, and
Varnamtown), all incorporated communities located in Brunswick
County have their.own land use plans, and therefore, make their own
policy decisions regarding the use of this land class. Of the three
incorporated communities within the jurisdiction of the County's land
use plan, Bald Head Island and Varnamtown have been designated
in the Developed class. (Sandy Creek is addressed elsewhere
under the Community Classification).
3.3.2 Urban (A) Purpose.
Transition: The purpose of the Urban Transition class is to provide for future
intensive urban development on lands that are suitable and that will
be provided with the necessary urban services to support intense
urban development.
(B) Description and Characteristics.
Areas meeting the intent of the Urban Transition classification are
presently being developed for urban purposes or will be developed in
the next five to ten years to accommodate anticipated population and
urban growth. These areas are in, or will be in an urban "transition"
state of development, going from lower intensity uses to higher
intensity uses and, as such, will eventually require urban services.
Other specific characteristics of Urban Transition areas include the
following:
1. Areas classified Urban Transition will provide lands for
intensive urban development when lands in the Developed
class are not sufficient to accommodate growth. Urban
transition lands must be able to support urban development by
being generally free of physical limitations and currently served
or readily served by urban services. Urban development
includes mixed land uses such as residential, commercial,
institutional, industrial and other uses at or approaching high to
moderate densities. Urban services include water, sewer,
I
Brunswick County Planning Board page 137 Glenn Harbeck Associates

streets and roads, police and fire protection that will be made
available at the time development occurs or soon thereafter.
Permanent population densities in this class will be high and
the seasonal population may swell significantly.
2. In choosing land for the Urban Transition class, such land
should not include: areas with severe physical limitations
which would make the provision of urban services difficult or
impossible, lands which meet the definition of Conservation,
lands of special value (unless no other alternative exists) such
as productive and unique agricultural lands, forest lands,
potentially valuable mineral deposits, water supply -
watersheds, scenic and tourist resources including
archaeological sites, habitat for important wildlife species,
areas subject to frequent flooding, areas important for
environmental or scientific values, lands where urban
development might destroy or damage natural systems or
processes of more than local concern, or lands where intense
development might result in undue risk to life and property from
natural or existing manmade hazards.
3. It should be understood that even though AEC standards
occasionally permit Urban Transition type development on a lot
by lot basis within the various AEC's, this classification should
generally not be applied to any AEC.
4. Areas that are predominantly residential meet the intent of
this class if:
a. they are approaching three dwelling units per acre, or
b. a majority of the lots are 15,000 square feet or less
and will be provided with essential urban services to
support this density of development, or
c. are contiguous to existing developed municipal areas.
(C) Application in Brunswick County
The Urban Transition classification has been applied to those parts of
the unincorporated area where either: (1) authorization for centralized
sewer service is already in place or (2) where initiatives are underway
which have a significant probability of establishing authority for
centralized sewer service within the next five years. These areas
include, principally, developable areas adjacent to the incorporated
areas or extraterritorial jurisdictions of the Towns of Leland, Navassa,
Belville, Southport, Long Beach, Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach,
Sunset Beach, and Calabash.
3.3.3 Limited (A) Purpose.
Transition: The purpose of the Limited Transition class is to provide for
development in areas that will have some services, but are suitable
Brunswick County Planning Board page 138 Glenn Harbeck Associates

ul emu!. *M Iand• Classilication
'
for lower densities than those associated with the Urban Transition
class, and/or are geographically remote from existing towns and
municipalities.
A Description and Characteristics.
Areas meeting the intent of this class will experience increased
development during the planning period. They will be in a state of
development necessitating some municipal type services. These
areas are of modest densities and often suitable for the provision of
closed water systems rather than individual wells.
Areas classified Limited Transition willprovide controlled
development with services, but may not be on lands that are suitable
for traditional higher intensity urban development normally associated
with sewers or other services. These may be lands with physical
limitations or areas near valuable estuarine waters or other fragile
natural systems. Sewers and other services may be provided
because such services are already in the area or readily available
nearby, because the lands are unsuitable for septic tanks or the
cumulative impact of septic tanks may negatively impact significant
public resources.
The Limited Transition class is intended for predominately residential
development with densities of three units per acre or less, or the
majority of lots 15,000 square feet or greater. In many areas, lower
densities may be in order. Clustering or development associated with
planned unit developments may be appropriate in the Limited
Transition class.
Areas which meet the definition of the Conservation class should not
be classified Limited Transition.
(C) Application in Brunswick County
The Limited Transition classification has been applied to those parts
of Brunswick County that exhibit three main characteristics: (1) they
are currently serviced by the County's centralized, piped water
distribution system, (2) they are in areas that are either developed or
are developing at a density and character not in keeping with the
L
character of a rural area and, (3) they are not presently authorized nor
anticipated for centralized sewer service in the next ten years.
The County has several specific objectives in applying this class
within certain parts of the unincorporated area. First, there is a need
to recognize the availability of the County water distribution system,
and the beneficial impact this system can have in relieving pressure
on the County's ground water aquifers. Second, the presence and
continued trend toward the development of numerous large, planned
golf course communities is an economic force in the county that must
be acknowledged. Third, the County recognizes that these same
Brunswick County Planning Board page 139 Glenn Harbec k Associates

areas will not likely receive centralized sewer service within the 10
year planning period, and are therefore not candidates for the Urban
Transition classification.
3.3.4 Community (A) Purpose.
The purpose of the Community class is to provide for clustered, mixed
land uses at low densities to help meet the housing, shopping,
employment and other needs in rural areas. Due to the small size of
most communities, they will appear as small areas in a dispersed
pattern on the County's land classification map. This class illustrates
small, dispersed groupings of housing and commercial land uses in a
rural landscape.
(B) Description and Characteristics.
Areas meeting the intent of the Community class are usually
associated with crossroads in counties. They may be developed at
low densities which, are suitable for private septic tank use. These
areas are clustered residential and/or commercial land uses which
provide both low intensity shopping and housing opportunities and
provide a local social sense of a "community'. Very limited municipal -
type services, such as fire protection and community water, may be
available, but municipal type sewer systems are not to be provided as
a catalyst for future development. In some unusual cases, sewer
systems may be possible, but only to correct an existing or projected
public health hazard. Areas developed in a low density fashion in
small, dispersed clusters in a larger rural landscape with very limited
or no water and sewer services meet the intent of this class.
(C) Application in Brunswick County
The Community classification has been applied to those relatively
small, predominately unincorporated communities in Brunswick
County that exhibit many or all of the characteristics described above.
Included in the classification are several small communities that,
while they may or may not be incorporated, are commonly recognized
as having some sense of identity and association with a particular
part of the county. This class includes but is not limited to the
communities of: Northwest, Sandy Creek (incorporated), Maco,
Clarendon, Bell Swamp/Winnabow, Mill Creek, Piney Grove,
Kingtown, Ash/Waccamaw, Longwood, Grissettown, and Hickman's
Crossroads.
3.3.5 Rural: (A) Purpose.
The Rural class is to provide for agriculture, forestry, mineral
extraction and other allied uses traditionally associated with an
agrarian region. Very low density dispersed residential uses on large
lots with on -site water and sewer are consistent with the intent of the
Rural class. Industries may also locate in the Rural area or, in the
case of especially large industries, may wish to seek special
Brunswick County Planning Board page 140 Glenn Harbedk Associates

JL]Ws Co= Land Use Plan Land Classif ication
designation as a Rural -Industrial area. Generally, development in this
class should be as compatible with resource production as possible.
(B) Description and Characteristics.
Areas meeting the intent of this classification are appropriate for or
presently used for agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction and other
similar uses, plus industries not wishing to locate in an urban setting.
Very low density dispersed, single family residential uses are also
appropriate within Rural areas where lot sizes are large and where
densities do not require the provision of urban type services. Private
septic tanks and wells are the primary on -site services available to
support residential development, but fire, rescue squad and sheriffs
rvery
protection may also be a available. Population densities are generally
low.
(C) Application in Brunswick County
The Rural class is the broadest of the several general land classes
and thus constitutes the major land class on the Brunswick County
Land Classification Map. The vast majority of all interior land areas,
away from the ocean and intracoastal waterway, have been
designated Rural.
3.3.6 Rural- (A) Purpose.
Industrial The CAMA Guidelines allow local governments to subdivide the
program's general land classes into sub -classes to better illustrate
' where certain specific activities might best occur. For Brunswick
County, this plan has created a special Rural -Industrial sub -class of
the general Rural classification. Its purpose is to accommodate and
encourage industrial development on appropriate sites within
specially designated land areas.
'
(B) Description and Characteristics.
Lands designated for the Rural -Industrial sub -class include areas
currently developed for large scale industrial type uses, and lands
containing sites that are particularly appropriate for future industrial
development'. Generally, industries locating within these areas might
be considered inappropriate for location in a more densely
1
developed, mixed use urban setting.
(C) Application in Bnmswick County
The Rural -Industrial land classification has been applied, for the most
part, to several relatively large land areas with convenient access to
the shipping channels of the Cape Fear River. Existing industries
located within these areas include, for example, Dupont, the Sunny
Point Military Terminal, the Archer Daniels Midland Plant, the CP&L
*As is the case with virtually all lands in Brunswick County, there will be areas unsufted
for development within the broader geographic areas designated for Rural -Industrial.
This requires site specific investigation in relation to corcrete development
proposals.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 141 Glenn Harbedk Associates

Nuclear Power Plant, and the Cogentrix Cogenerating Plant. Other
land areas which have been included are largely adjacent to these
existing industrial operations. It should be noted, however, that the
County would seek to employ the Rural -Industrial class in the future
as may be advantageous to recruit new industry to other appropriate
locations within the broader Rural land area.
3.3.7 Rural with (A) Purpose.
Services. The Rural with Services class is intended to provide for very low
density land uses including residential uses where limited water
services are provided to avert an existing or projected health problem.
Development within this class should be low intensity in keeping with
a rural character. Rural water systems, such as those funded by
Farmers Home Administration, may be appropriate in these areas due
to the need to avert poor water quality problems. These systems,
however, should be designed to serve a limited number of customers
and should not serve as a catalyst for future higher intensity
development.
(B) Description and Characteristics.
Areas meeting the intent of this class are appropriate for very low
intensity residential uses, where lot sizes are large, and where the
provision of services will not disrupt the primarily rural character of the
landscape. Private wells and septic tank services may exist, but most
development is supported by a closed water system. Other services
such as sheriffs protection and rural or volunteer fire protection and
emergency rescue etc. may also be available.
(C) Application in Brunswick County
This class is intended to be applied when and if the County (or other
agency) ever provides very limited water services to avert a known or
anticipated health problem in a predominantly larger agrarian region.
Currently, no such situation is known to exist in Brunswick County;
however, the Rural with Services land class is included here so that in
the event need arises, prompt action can be taken to address the
problem area.
3.3.8 (A) Purpose.
Conservation The purpose of the Conservation class is to provide for the effective
long-term management and protection of significant, limited, or
irreplaceable areas. Management is needed due to the natural,
cultural, recreational, scenic or natural productive values of both local
and more than local concern. As such, the Conservation class should
be applied to areas that should be either not developed at all
(preserved), or if developed, done so in an extremely limited and
cautious fashion.
Urban services, public or private, should not be provided in these
areas as a catalyst to stimulate intense development. In most cases,
Brunswick County Planning Board page 142 Glenn Harbeck Associates

limited on -site services will adequately support any limited
development within this class and will also protect the very features
which justify the area's inclusion in the Conservation classification. It
should be understood that even though AEC standards occasionally
permit urban type development on a lot by lot basis within the various
AEC's and that services are occasionally provided, this is the
exception rather than the rule; the primary intent of the Conservation
class is to provide protection for the resources it contains.
(B) Description and Characteristics.
Areas meeting the intent of this classification include:
1. AEC's, including but not limited to, public trust waters,
estuarine waters, coastal wetlands etc. as identified in 15A
NCAC 7H.
2. other similar lands, environmentally significant because of
their natural role in the integrity of the coastal region and which
include, but are not limited to: bottom land hardwoods,
pocosins, swamp forests, areas that are or have a high
probability of providing wildlife habitat, forest lands that are
essentially undeveloped and lands which otherwise contain
significant productive, natural, scenic, cultural or recreational
resources.
(C) Application in Brunswick County
For Brunswick County, the Conservation class includes:
1. all AEC's as defined in 15A NCAC 7H and as further
summarized in Section 2.1 of this Plan,
2. all wetland areas under the jurisdiction of the US Army
Corps of Engineers' 404 wetlands Permit Program and
3. any existing and future critical wildlife habitat areas as may
be designated by the State Natural Heritage Program.
For further information on the specific distinctions among the various
uses allowed within each AEC group, the reader is referred to Section
2.1 of this Plan, and more particularly, 15A NCAC 7H (North Carolina
Administrative Code for Areas of Environmental Concern).
With regard to use standards for critical habitat areas, the County will
support the specific state management plans for each area, provided
that any such plan is prepared with considerable input and in close
coordination with area residents and County government.
Mapping of AEC's, 404 wetlands, and critical habit areas in the
Conservation class on the Land Classification Map is accomplished
r
Brunswick County Planning Board page 143 Glenn Harbeck Associates

with the understanding that these areas are more accurately defined
by their characteristics in their respective management policies and
plans, and therefore, the map only indicates approximate locations of
these areas. Oftentimes, the scattered, widespread nature of such
areas (e.g. 404 wetlands) precludes their mapping except at a very
generalized level of detail. In such instances, the standards of the
Conservation class and its three primary components shall be applied
in accordance with the site specific information made available during
the land development process.
As with the 1987 update to the County's Land Use Plan, the County
specifically reserves the option to assist industry in accommodating
their access needs to the shipping channels of the Cape Fear River.
Due to the presence of fragile land and water areas along most of the
River's shoreline, the unavoidable need for industrial access through
Conservation areas along the Cape Fear is acknowledged. The
County will encourage desired industries to develop such access
facilities in a manner which mitigates, to the extent possible,
environmental impacts.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 144 Glenn Harbec k Associates

1
[1
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11
4e Inter -Governmental
Coordination and
Municipal
Land Use Plans
♦ ram'

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Intergovernmental Coordination and Municipal Land Use Plans
� 4. Intergovernmental Coordination
! and Municipal Land Use Plans
4.1 Inter- The Brunswick County Land Use Plan, including the policies for
governmental growth and development and the land classification map, will serve to
Coordination coordinate numerous policies, standards, regulations, and other
governmental activities at the local, State and Federal levels. Such
coordination is achieved in three ways:
1. State and Federal government agencies are required to review
local land use plans when considering any actions or activities
under their jurisdiction. Their actions are to be consistent,
whenever possible, with the intent of the local land use plan.
2. The policies and land classification system described in the land
use plan provide a basis for planning and budgeting for the
provision of public facilities and services such as water and sewer
systems, roads and schools.
3. The County land use plan can serve as a coordinating instrument
in helping to bring together the various regulatory policies and
decisions of the local government into one document.
The preparation of the Brunswick County Land Use Plan and Policies
has proceeded in a manner which recognizes the planning activities
of other local government jurisdictions, and State and Federal
agencies. In preparing the plan, copies of other local government
land use plans (in the County and adjacent to it) were reviewed. In
addition, certain relevant State plans and studies, such as the NC
DOT Transportation Improvement Program were reviewed. State
representatives involved in population projections, marine fisheries,
water quality monitoring, and historic and archaeological preservation
were also consulted. Federal authorities in charge of channel
maintenance and flood insurance were contacted and interviewed.
Further, within Brunswick County government, representatives of the
following local government functions were consulted: county
manager's office, economic development, emergency services,
engineering, health, parks and recreation, planning, and social
services.
Need for intra- Within Brunswick County there are seventeen incorporated
county local
municipalities; having more towns than any other county in North
government
Carolina. These towns are also scattered over a broad geographic
planning and
area, given that Brunswick County is the eighth largest county of the
coordination
State's one hundred counties. Citizen comments received at more
than one public input meeting held for the land use plan reflected on
the difficulty in reaching consensus among so many fragmented
Brunswick County Planning Board page 145 Glenn Harbeck Associates
IP

jurisdictions. Even the fact that the County is located in several
different telephone calling zones makes convenient communication
from one end of the county to the other challenging.
The difficulty in accomplishing necessary change in such an
environment came to the forefront during public discussion of the
need for county -wide coordination of sewage treatment planning and
implementation. There was general consensus that in addition to
concerns about sewage treatment, there is also need for continued
improvements in coordinating the "delivery" of emergency services,
education, solid waste management, and planning services, to name
just a few. This plan therefore includes a specific implementation
action calling upon the area's legislative delegation to the NC
General Assembly to sponsor a special study to determine the most
effective form of local government for intra-county cooperation.
4.2 Municipal Of the seventeen towns in the County, fourteen have prepared or are
Land Use Plans preparing their own independent CAMA land use plan. This is in
accordance with 113A-110 of the Coastal Area Management Act.
These municipalities are as follows:
Belville
Boiling Springs Lakes
Bolivia
Calabash
Caswell Beach
Holden Beach
Leland
Long Beach
Navassa
Ocean Isle Beach
Shallotte
Southport
Sunset Beach
Yaupon Beach
The reader should consult with the appropriate local government land
use plan on matters involving activities within each of the
communities identified above. As noted previously, these
municipalities are shown on the County's land classification map in
the municipal land class, with an accompanying note to review their
independent plans for matters involving these areas.
The three remaining municipal governments in Brunswick County, not
having their own independent land use plans, are listed below, along
with certain basic statistics describing their size and character:
Brunswick County Planning Board page 146 Glenn Harbeck Associates

LI!Ipi
L, 17�L!. O q :�.� - _ o �• - „c� ** a �. t .a• •. .�• .�
Community
1990
Total
Lacking
Civilian
Percent
Per
Median
Name
Population
Housing
Complete
Labor
Un-
Capita
Household
(Year
Units
Plumbing
Force
employed
Income
Income
Incorporated)
ril '90
Bald Head
78
398
0
35
0.0%
$57,148
$108,616
Island
1985
Sandy Creek
271
90
0
136
5.9%
$10,339
$33,250
1988
Varnamtown
434
253
2
184
8.2%
$10,224
$25,714
1988
Source: 1990 census
For CAMA land use planning purposes, the communities of Bald
Head Island and Varnamtown are shown on the County's land
classification map in the developed land class. In the case of Sandy
Creek, that community's incorporated area has been shown as
community on the land classification map. In all three communities,
any Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) that exist within these
municipalities are considered to be in the conservation land class. As
is the case throughout the county, the conservation land class
acknowledges that the use and performance standards developed by
the North Carolina Coastal Resources Commission for AEC's, as well
as all applicable regulations for wetland protection, will be applied to
development proposals within each area so designated. As such,
these minimum standards for AEC and wetland protection will be
used by the appropriate permitting authority in issuing CAMA
development permits.
Also, in the case of Bald Head Island, the Village enacted a zoning
ordinance in 1991 which largely reflects the overall Land Use Plan of
the developer on the Island. The Village has considered the
possibility that a portion of the maritime forest could be sold and/or
donated to the State of North Carolina to be preserved in its natural
state. It is the policy of the Village to support and encourage this
acquisition by the State.
Accordingly, the Village adopted an overlay district in the 1991
Zoning Ordinance to identify the Bald Head Island Maritime Forest in
' its entirety and set standards for its development compatible with the
environmentally sensitive nature of the Bald Head Island and Middle
Island Forests.
Each of these communities received a draft of this section of the
County land use plan and was asked to comment. Official letters of
concurrence were subsequently received from Bald Head Island and
Varnamtown, and are included in the appendix to this plan.
While Sandy Creek did not respond in writing, the County Planning
i Director indicated that the community agreed at the beginning of the
planning process to allow the County to exercise planning authority
for the land use plan within it's planning jurisdiction.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 147 Glenn Harbeck Associates

1
5. Summary of
Public Participation
11

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Summary Of Public Participation
5. Summary Of Public Participation
Introduction Since its inception, North Carolina's Coastal Area Management Act
Program has placed a high level of emphasis on public participation
in the development of local land use plans and policies. The intent is
to insure that the resulting plan and policies reflect, as closely as
possible, the will of the people in the community.
Meaningful public involvement was an important element in
preparing an updated land use plan for growth and development in
Brunswick County. For the public involvement program to be
effective, two key factors were included:
1) public education and
2) public input.
' The most effective format for public involvement includes this two-
way communication between citizens and local officials.
The public involvement strategy employed for the Brunswick County
Land Use Plan provided numerous opportunities for effective
communication. First and foremost was the appointment of the
County Planning Board as the Steering Committee for the Plan. This
6-member board (5 regular members plus 1 County Commissioner)
is appointed by the County Commissioners and represents various
interests and geographic areas of the county.
The Planning Board had an active, leadership role throughout the
preparation of the Land Use Plan. The Committee's role was
particularly critical during the formulation of the Growth Policies and
the Land Classification Map. In this capacity, the Planning Board
offered local perspectives, providing input on the accuracy of
information gathered, and feedback on the recommendations given.
All Planning Board meetings were open to the public and several,
jointly hosted with the County Commissioners, were designed
specifically to garner public input in an organized, constructive
fashion.
The following is a summary of program phases and key meetings for
public involvement in the preparation of the Brunswick County Land
Use Plan:
1. StrategyThe first priority in carrying out the public participation strategy for the
P Y
Development/ Land Use Plan was to meet with key local officials to discuss and
Public receive approval of the planning process for citizen involvement.
Participation During this phase, the planning consultant, the County Staff, the
1
Plan Planning Board and the County Commissioners each had a constructive role in preparing, reviewing, and approving the
proposed planning and public involvement strategy.
' Brunswick County Planning Board page 148 Glenn Harbeck Associates
1

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Summary Of Public Participation
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
September 18, 26, October 16, County Planning Board
November 20, and December 18, 1991
October 7, December 2, 10, and 16, 1991 Board of County
Commissioners
2. Issue Issue identification for the Brunswick County Land Use Plan
Identification by consisted of a series of five public meetings held at strategic
the Public locations in various parts of the county. A concerted effort was made
to cluster the meeting dates within a two week period to maximize
public exposure and media attention. Each of these meetings was
jointly hosted by one member of the Planning Board and one
member of the Board of County Commissioners. A mailing list was
compiled and special invitations and announcements were prepared
and mailed to over 100 residents of the county, known to represent a
wide cross section of interests. Announcements were also sent to
local news media.
The purpose of these meetings was to provide the public with the
opportunity to make their concerns known about growth and
development issues facing the county. The intent was to accomplish
this task as early as possible in the planning process, so that these
concerns might be recorded and used as a foundation for the
preparation of the Plan.
The specific involvement technique used to solicit public input was a
modified nominal group process using index cards and display
sheets. Following the identification of issues, the relative priority of
each issue was identified by a simple voting process. After the entire
series of meetings was completed, all growth issues were typed up
exactly as recorded and sorted into policy categories consistent, to
the extent possible, with categories suggested in the CAMA
guidelines. The complete listing and ranking of all issues as
identified at the meetings was then presented to the Planning Board
for discussion and review. This written tabulation of growth issues
was also made available for public inspection and review.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
January 7, 1992 Public Input Meeting No. 1
January 9, 1992 Public Input Meeting No. 2
January 14, 1992 Public Input Meeting No. 3
January 15, 1992 Public Input Meeting No. 4
Jones Byrd
Clubhouse
Southport -Oak
Island Chamber of
Commerce
Town Creek
Community Building
Leland Community
Building
wic County Planning Board page 149 Glenn Harbeck Associates I
Brunswick ty g p 9
n
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IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Summary Of Public Participation
January 16, 1992 Public Input Meeting No. 5 Lockwood Folly
Community Building
January 21, 1992 Discuss public input County Planning
Board
3. Leadership During this phase, the consulting planner, working in cooperation
Interviews with the County Planning Director, conducted a series of personal
interviews with several local leaders from various walks of life and
areas of knowledge in Brunswick County. The purpose of the
interviews was to gain in-depth insights into prospects for future
growth and development in the county. Each person interviewed
was asked two questions:
'
1) What are Brunswick County's' greatest assets? and
2) What are the county's liabilities, or things that are holding the
'
county back?
In addition, each an specific
person was encouraged to focus on
P 9 Y P
issue they cared to amplify. Specific comments were not attributed to
'
any one individual so as to encourage candidness and assure
anonymity.
Following the interviews, a summary of several of the common
threads running throughout the interviews was prepared for review
by the Planning Board.
Interviews were conducted on Tuesday, January 28 and Wednesday,
January 29, 1992, with the following individuals:
Mr. P.R. Hankins Superintendent of Public Instruction,
Brunswick County Schools;
Mr. Eugene Tomlinson Member, Coastal Resources
Commission for some 15 years, Mayor
of Southport, 18 years;
Mr. Bill Rabon Veterinarian, Chairman, Brunswick
County Health Board;
Mr. Mike Reeves President, Brunswick Community
College;
Mr. Jamie Orrock Director of Social Services, Brunswick
County and
Mr. Ed Gore former Chairman of the County
Planning Board, developer of. Sunset
Beach and environs.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
January 22 and February 19, 1992 County Planning Board
IBrunswick County Planning Board page 150 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Summary Of Public Participation
4. Discussion of Based in part on the issues identified during Phases 2 and 3 above,
Public Input and and in keeping with the data collection and analysis requirements of
Growth Factors the CAMA land use planning guidelines, a growth factors analysis
was prepared for initial review by the Planning Board. To
accomplish this task, a completed draft of the analysis was
distributed to the Planning Board for their review and comment.
Each Planning Board member was asked to review the document for
both its scope and its accuracy. As a result of the review, changes
were made and additional research was conducted to address
specific comments and points felt to be in need of clarification.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
January 22, February 19,
and March 18, 1992 County Planning Board
5. Plan and With the results of the initial public input in hand, and with the Growth
Policy Factors Analysis completed, the consulting planner, working closely
Development with the County planning staff and Planning Board, prepared a draft
Work Sessions set of Growth Policies. The kick off meeting for this process was a
special, all day work session designed to give the Planning Board
the opportunity to review the entire set of existing County policies,
and to better understand the way in which the policies interrelate. At
the same time, this initial session was most beneficial in identifying
policies in need of updating, modification, deletion or addition.
Based on the initial all day work session, the consulting planner then
prepared a draft of the Policy Section of the Plan, complete with
policy statements and explanatory text. The Planning Board then
reviewed the policy section during two regular meetings of the Board.
Both meetings were open to the public and public comments were
invited and accepted. Each proposed policy statement, along with its
explanatory text, was reviewed with suggested changes recorded
and completed.
A second element of the plan, also prepared during this phase, was
the proposed Land Classification Map. The map was prepared using
washable markers on an acetate overlay. This technique allowed for
instant changes to the map in accordance with directives from the
Planning Board during public meetings.
A third element of the plan prepared during this phase was the
Implementation Actions section. Unlike the County's previous land
use plans, however, this plan section was prepared as a separate
element, allowing this section to be updated on an annual basis
without altering the balance of the plan. This section was reviewed
in a fifth meeting of the Planning Board.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 151 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Summary Of Public Participation
Ll
Following the completion of this series of review meetings, a revised,
completed draft of the policies, text and map was prepared in
accordance with the directives and comments of the Planning Board.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
April 9, 1992 County Planning Board
May 20, 1992 County Planning Board
June 17, 1992 County Planning Board
July 15, 1992 County Planning Board
August 19, 1992 County Planning Board
All Day Work Session
on Policies
Review of Land
Classification Map
Discussion of Draft
Policy Section
Discussion of Draft
Policy Section and Draft
Implementation Actions
Final Discussion of
Draft Policies and
Implementation Actions,
Expression of intent for
further public comment.
6. Planning A joint work session on the draft plan was held to provide the
Board opportunity for the Planning Board and County Commissioners to
Presentation/ meet in a round table discussion. The purpose of the meeting was
Discussion of not to formally adopt the plan, but rather to reach consensus as to the
Draft Plan with adequacy of the plan and its policies for formal public review, and
County generally, for submission to the CAMA program- staff. While this
Commissioners meeting was also open to the public, (and public comments were
accepted) its primary intent was to allow the two boards to
concentrate their attention on the draft plan, in the absence of formal
public dialogue.
' Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
September 21,1992 Joint meeting of Board of County
Commissioners/County Planning Board
After the joint work session on the draft plan was completed, and
7. Public comments from the two boards received, a formal public meeting was
' Comment held by the County Commissioners to accept public comments in an
Meeting /Follow- organized fashion. Notification for the meeting included large
up Review announcements printed in the county's two newspapers of general
' Session circulation as well as approximately one hundred individual
announcements mailed to a broad spectrum of community leaders in
the county. All comments received at the meeting, whether favorable,
' neutral or negative, were noted for the record and for further action
as appropriate.
' Once public comments were accepted and recorded, a review
meeting was held with the Planning Board to go over the public
comments and to decide upon revisions in response to citizen
' Brunswick County Planning Board. page 152 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Summary Of Public Participation
concerns. Plan revisions were then completed in accordance with
directives received from the Planning Board, as the official steering
comittee for the land use plan, appointed by the County
Commissioners.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
October 6, 1992 Public Input Meeting hosted by the
County Commissioners
October 21,1992 County Planning Board meeting to
discuss and direct revisions
NOTE: FROM THIS POINT FORWARD IN THE PLANNING
AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROCESS, THE SEQUENCE
OF EVENTS IS AS IT IS PROJECTED TO BE, UNFORSEEN
CIRCUMSTANCES NOTWITHSTANDING.
8. State Review Following additional revisions to the plan in accordance with
and Comment/ Planning Board (Steering Committee) directives, the plan was sent to
Prepare the State CAMA program staff (understood to include appropriate
Revisions As Advisory Council representative) for review and comment.
Appropriate Comments received from the review staff were then considered by
the Planning Board and County Commissioners for action as
necessary.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
_,1992 Meeting of Board of County
Commissioners/County Planning
Board to discuss revisions
9. County The County Commissioners held a formal public hearing to present
Commissioners the plan for a final time for public review and comment. Notice of the
Adoption of Plan meeting was in accordance with requirements for public hearings for
(Public Hearing) the local adoption of CAMA Land Use Plans, as well as the County's
normal protocol. Adoption of the plan was contingent, as necessary,
upon the preparation of final revisions made in accordance with
directives received from the County Commissioners. The plan was
then submitted to the Coastal Resources Commission for certification
by that body.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
(date) Public Hearing by the Board of County
Commissioners for consideration of
adoption
The following table summarizes the planning process by month from
initial organization to the final public hearing for adoption.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 153 Glenn Harbeck Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Summary of Public Participation
Summary of Public Involvement Process
Month Major Activities
' October '91 Execute Contract With Consulting Planner/Organize for Planning and
Public Involvement
November Adopt Public Participation Plan/Begin Growth Factors Analysis
December Continue Growth Factors Analysis
' Jan '92 Continue Growth Factors Anal sis/identif Growth Issues
Y Y
I
February Conduct Leadership Interviews/Evaluate Growth Issues/Finalize Growth
Factors Analysis
March Present and Discuss, Growth Factors Analysis and Leadership
Interviews
' April Discuss Needed Revisions to Existing Policies and Land Class. Map
May Prepare Draft of Preliminary Policies and Land Classification
' June Begin Review of Preliminary Policies and Land Classification
'
July
Complete Review of Preliminary Policies and Land Classification
Present and Review Implementation Actions
Begin Compiling Draft Plan in Full for Review
August
Planning Board Review of Progress To Date and Discussion of Joint
Meeting with County Commissioners
'
September
Prepare final working draft.
Hold Joint Meeting: County Commissioners and Planning Board
'October
Hold Public Review Meeting for Comment
Planning Board Action on Public Comments
Submit Plan for State and Federal Agency Review
November
Allow time for agency review and coments
December
Revisions as necessary
Schedule public hearing 30 days in advance
'
January
Public hearing before County Commissioners/
1993
Adoption of Plan with revisions as necessary
Submit Plan to CRC for Certification
Brunswick County Planning Board page 164 Glenn Harbeck Associates

6e Action Agenda
I

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
0
6. Action Agenda For the Brunswick
County Land Use Plan
Introduction to the Action Agenda
The Action Agenda of the Brunswick County Land Use Plan is
provided to identify specific implementation actions in
furtherance of the Policies and Land Classification Map. These
actions are normally intended to be accomplished within the
five year planning period between adoption of this plan and the
next land use plan update (scheduled for 1997).
Implementation actions are designed to suggest several possible
courses of action available to the County to carry out the Policies and
Map. The suggested actions are not all-inclusive nor are they
binding; additional actions may be added and others removed as
conditions change. In fact, it is suggested that this summary of
policies and implementation actions be reviewed on an annual basis
during development of the County's work program and budget
approval process. In this manner, the effectiveness of the policies
and implementation actions can be better evaluated. Further, by
making this Action Agenda a separate section of the plan (as
opposed to scattering the implementation actions throughout the
narrative), these actions can be updated and re-inserted into the
document on a regular basis.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 155 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
2.1 Resource Protection
Policies
2.1.1 CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.1.1 (a)
Development Is encouraged to
(1) Ongoing efforts to incorporate U.S. Soil
locate in areas without soil
Conservation Service detailed soil
suitability problems and where
classification maps into the County's
Infrastructure Is available; In areas
geographic information system (GIS) will
where suitability problems exist,
continue.
engineering solutions are
supported to the extent that the
(2) The County planning staff will review zoning
natural environment Is not
and subdivision proposals with respect to the
compromised.
soils found on the proposed site.
(3) Plans to produce detailed topographic
mapping (2' contour intervals) in the County's
GIS will continue.
Policy 2.1.1 (b)
Brunswick County supports the
(1) The County will continue to enforce the
administration and enforcement of
local flood damage prevention ordinance.
all applicable flood plain
management regulations and the
(2) Efforts to disseminate flood insurance rate
national flood Insurance program.
maps to Realtors, developers, financial
institutions, and insurance agencies will
continue.
(3) Recent initiatives by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to
update the County's flood insurance rate maps
will be encouraged and supported. Such
mapping should be designed to take
advantage of information contained in the
County's GIS system and, upon completion,
should be incorporated into the County's GIS
system.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 156 Glenn Harbeck Associates

I
Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
�I
LI
FI
2.1.2 AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
2.1.2(a) Coastal
Wetland AEC's
Policy 2.1.2(a) Efforts to protect and preserve the
environmental value of coastal
wetland AEC's shall be supported.
Such protection shall be balanced
with the economic and community
values of piers, docks, and marinas
which serve the public, whether
they be publicly or privately
owned.
c.1.cko)
Estuarine Water
AEC's
Policy 2.1.2(b) Developments and mitigation
activities which support the
function, cleanliness, salinity, and
circulation of estuarine water
resources are supported.
(1) The County's commitment to the protection
of coastal wetland AEC's will continue through
County financial and staff support for the minor
CAMA permit program.
(2) Major CAMA permit reviews and comment
by the County's staff will include references to
the County's land use policies. Also, the
County will request that the State consult with
the County on all interpretations of the Land
Use Plan, its policies, and land classification
map, so that consistent State/local
interpretations will be achieved.
(3) The County will seek funds for a study
addressing the need for publicly financed
marinas or boat berthing facilities in the
(1) The County will call upon the North Carolina
Department of Transportation to conduct a
study of road drainage patterns within the
Lockwood Folly Watershed. The study will
examine, for example, the effects of direct
ditching to estuarine waters and potential
corrective actions.
(2) The County will continue to support and
improve upon existing regulations dealing with
runoff from proposed development.
(3) Upon completion of State studies
examining the causes of water quality declines
in the Lockwood Folly River, the County will
consider the creation of a shoreline overlay
district as part of an overall zoning ordinance.
Such overlay district might include
requirements for more intense review of
proposed drainage, and limitations on the type
of land uses allowed within the overlay district.
(4) The County will encourage the State and
Federal Government to develop appropriate
regulations over storm drainage and soil
erosion from agricultural and forestry activities.
(5) The County will continue to press for
implementation of the demonstration project,
approved by Congress as part of the Water
Resources Development Act of 1992, to
reopen the eastern channel of the Lockwood
Folly River.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 157 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda ,
2.1.2(c) Public
Trust Waters
AEC's
Policy 2.1.2(c) The community's need for piers
and docks, whether publicly or
privately owned, shall be tempered
by the rights of the public for the
free and open use of public trust
waters for navigation, shell fishing,
and other uses. Efforts of State
and Federal agencies to limit the
length of docks and piers as they
project Into estuarine waters
(T15A:071-1.0208) are especially
supported.
2.1.2(d)
Estuarine
Shoreline
AhU'S
Policy 2.1.2(d) Brunswick County supports the
protection and preservation of Its
estuarine shorelines, particularly
regarding those use standards
contained In T15A:07H.0209(e)
2.1.2(e)
Ocean Hazard
Area AEC's
Policy 2.1.2(e) Brunswick County supports State
and Federal guidelines designed
to manage development in the
ocean hazard AEC of the Baptist
assembly grounds, the only ocean
hazard AEC under the County's
planning jurisdiction.
2.1.2(f) Public Not applicable.
Water Supply
AEC's
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
(1) The County will support a strengthening c
State's standards concerning pier length and
obstruction of shallow -water navigation in the
county's public trust waters.
(1) Upon completion of State studies
examining the causes of water quality declines
in the Lockwood Folly Rivdr, the County will
consider the creation of a shoreline overlay
district as part of an overall zoning ordinance.
Such overlay district might include
requirements for more intense review of
proposed drainage, and limitations on the type
of land uses allowed within the overlay district.
(See 2.1.2(b) above also).
(1) The County will continue to support proper
enforcement of applicable CAMA regulations
for ocean hazard area AEC's, and will continue
to consult with the staff of the Baptist
Assembly.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 158 Glenn Harbeck Associates I

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
L
2.1.2(g) Natural IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
and Cultural
Resource
AEC's
Policy 2.1.2 (g) Brunswick County supports the
selective designation of
appropriate areas as natural and
cultural resource AEC's (Coastal
Complex Natural Areas, Coastal
Areas That Sustain Remnant
Species, Unique Geologic
Formations, Significant Coastal
Archaeological Resources and
Significant Coastal Historical
Architectural Resources).
(1) The County supports appropriate State
studies to examine areas within Brunswick
County for possible AEC designation under
the natural and cultural resource AEC
category.
2.1 3 OTHER HAZARDOUS OR FRAGILE LAND AREAS
2.1.3 (a)
Freshwater
Swamps,
Marshes,
Pocoslns, and
.1.3
2.1.3 (b)
Maritime
Forests
Policy 2.1.3 (b)
Brunswick County will continue to
support the efforts of the CAMA
program and the US. Army Corps of
Engineers 404 permitting program
to preserve and protect sensitive
fresh water swamp and marsh
areas.
Maritime forests In Brunswick
County shall receive a high level of
environmental protection when
considering the public and private
sector uses. When development Is
considered, preferred usage shall
be for low intensity or clustered
development forms.
(1) In the absence of AEC designation, the
County supports efforts of the North Carolina
Wildlife Resources Commission to identify and
designate critical habitat areas within the
county, provided that coordination for local
study and evaluation is included.
(1) The County will investigate the need for a
local ordinance concerning tree preservation,
particularly regarding outstanding and historic
trees, including but not limited to significant
live oaks and maritime forest.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 159 Glenn Harbedk Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda I
2.1.3 (c)
Outstanding
Resource
waters (uHw,$)
Policy 2.1.3 (c) I Brunswick County supports the
efforts of the State to restore the
water quality of the Lockwood Folly
River, as well as other estuarine
waters In the county, to a water
quality level deserving of ORW
designation.
2.1.3(d) Water
cy 2.1.3(d) The county's ground water
resources shall be recognized as
valuable secondary source of
public and private potable water
and shall receive a high level of
protection when considering
development proposals.
2.1.3(e)
Cultural and
Historic
Resources
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
(1) Regardless of whether ORW designation is
accomplished, the County will consider
creating a special shoreline overlay district
within the County's overall zoning ordinance to
protect and restore, to the extent possible,
water quality in the county's estuarine waters.
(See also Policy Sections 2.1.2(b) and 2.1.2(d)
above.)
(2) The County will continue to press for
implementation of the demonstration project,
approved by Congress as part of the Water
Resources Development Act of 1992, to
reopen the eastern channel of the Lockwood
Folly River.
(1) Demands on the county's groundwater
a resources will be relieved through continued
expansion of the county -wide water system, in
accordance with the 1990 Water Distribution
System Master Plan.
2.1.3(e) Brunswick County supports the
protection of other natural and
cultural resource areas (beyond
those designated as AEC's) to
preserve their cultural, educational
and aesthetic values and qualities.
2.1.3(f)
Manmade
Hazards
Policy 2.1.3(f)
Brunswick County will seek to
minimize potential land use
conflicts and hazards related to
development in areas near existing
hazardous facilities.
(1) Brunswick County will encourage the State
to update the current list of cultural and historic
resources in Brunswick County to include
areas such as, especially, Clarendon
Plantation.
(1) The County will continue to enforce air
space zoning for the Brunswick County
Airport, in keeping with the wishes of the
jurisdiction within which the airport falls, the
Southeastern Sanitary District.
2.1.4 HURRICANE AND FLOOD EVACUATION (See Section 2.5)
Brunswick County Planning Board page 160 Glenn Harbeck Associates I

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
Fl
J
2.1.5 PROTECTION OF POTABLE WATER SUPPLY IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.1.5(a)
Brunswick County supports all
(1) Brunswick County will encourage State
State and Federal efforts to
efforts to prepare targeted studies and
protect the quality of water In the
effective policies on water allocation, inter -
Cape Fear River, whether such
basin transfers, water quality impacts, etc. as
protection Involves controls over
these issues affect the Cape Fear River.
point source discharges, surface
runoff, or Inter basin water
transfers.
Policy 2.1.5(b)
Brunswick County will continue
(1) Implementation of the Water Distribution
Improvements to and expansion of
System Master Plan as prepared by William G.
the area's central, piped water
Daniel and Associates, September 1990 will
supply system.
continue in accordance with the general
phasing of improvements recommended.
Policy 2.1.5(c)
Brunswick County supports the
(1) The proposed zoning ordinance will direct
regulation of toxic waste and other
higher density and more intensive
harmful materials which could
development to locate in areas where public
reach the ground water resource,
water is provided, thereby reserving areas
as well as Improved storm water
dependent upon the groundwater resource
management and
for lower density development.
erosion/sedimentation controls.
2.1.6 PACKAGE SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTS
Policy 2.1.6
i
Until such time that district sewage
treatment systems are feasible and
available, Brunswick County shall
encourage the use of private, small
package sewage treatment plants
for appropriately scaled
developments, especially In those
areas with soil limitations for septic
tank use.
2.1.7 STORMWATER RUNOFF
Policy 2.1.7 Brunswick County encourages all
Stormwater land use activities to employ
Runoff effective storm water management
practices to protect the quality of
the county's streams, rivers,
marshes and estuarine systems.
(1) In areas with uncorrectable soil suitability
problems causing severe limitations for septic
tanks, a package sewage treatment plant will
be required of all major subdivision projects.
(2) The County will continue to develop and
improve upon its relatively new responsibilities
(July 1, 1992) for inspection, and to insure
proper operation and maintenance of
subsurface sewage disposal facilities in the
county.
(1) The County will implement and enforce a
new provision in the County subdivision
regulations requiring that a copy of the soil
erosion/sedimentation control plan be
included as a part of all new subdivisions.
Detailed standards are included in the new
ordinance.
(2) Brunswick County will encourage the State
to seek appropriate legislation to require that
agriculture and forest activities meet
reasonable storm water runoff standards.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 161 Glenn Harbedk Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda 1
2.1.8 MARINA AND FLOATING HOME
DEVELOPMENT
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.1.8(a)
Brunswick County discourages
(1) Brunswick County will continue to support
floating home development
CAMA standards regarding floating structures
anywhere In the waterways, public
in coastal waters.
trust waters, and along the
shorelines of the county, to the
(2) Should need require, the County will study
extent regulated by the State.
other coastal counties such as Carteret
County and New Hanover County for
appropriate local regulations and standards.
Policy 2.1.8(b)
Brunswick County encourages
(1) The County will seek funds for a study
environmentally responsible
examining the need for possible publicly
marina development in accordance
financed and publicly owned marinas and other
with all State CAMA standards for
boat berthing facilities.
AEC's.
2.1.9 INDUSTRIAL IMPACTS ON FRAGILE AREAS
Policy 2.1.9 Economically beneficial Industries
will be allowed to locate In fragile
areas If environmental Impacts can
be mitigated.
The
industrial performance standards in the
proposed zoning ordinance.
(2) The land classification map and zoning
ordinance will identify areas not suitable for
industrial development.
2.1.10 DEVELOPMENT OF SOUND AND ESTUARINE SYSTEM ISLANDS
Icy 2.1.10
Development of sound and
estuarine system Islands Is
permitted, provided that Impacts
on the natural environment are
properly mitigated. When such
Islands are deemed to have greater
than local significance, the County
encourages the State to purchase
these environmentally sensitive
areas for the benefit of all
residents of the state.
(1) The County will continually work to improve
its subdivision and zoning regulations to
provide for proper environmental protection
and development on sensitive estuarine
system islands.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 162 Glenn Harbeck Associates I

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda_
' 2.1.11 DEVELOPMENT NEAR SEA LEVEL IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
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Policy 2.1.11 Development within areas
susceptible to sea level rise,
shoreline erosion, and/or wetland
loss, should take Into
consideration such conditions
upon initial development. In the
event such development Is later
threatened by shoreline loss, the
County will not support efforts to
harden the shoreline to protect
unwise development.
2.1.12 UPLAND EXCAVATION FOR MARINA
BASINS
Policy 2.1.12 Brunswick County supports the
development of marina basins In
upland sites In accordance with
CAMA standards set forth In 15-
NCAC 7H.0208(6)(5).
'2.1.13 MARSH DAMAGE FROM BULKHEAD
INSTALLATION
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Policy 2.1.13 Brunswick County supports state
and Federal standards which seek
to prevent or minimize marsh
damage from bulkhead or rip rap
Installation. The County
recognizes, however, that some
limited marsh damage may be
necessary to provide for otherwise
environmentally sound
development.
(1) The County will continue to enforce the
flood protection ordinance as a means of
ensuring that new development in low -lying
areas is consistent with the limitations of the
land.
(1) The County will continue to support CAMA
standards for the development of marinas in
upland locations.
(2) The County will seek funds for a study of
the need for publicly financed and publicly
owned marinas; such study, if approved, to
include consideration of upland marina sites.
(1) Brunswick County will continue to support
State and Federal standards for
environmentally sensitive bulkhead
installations.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 163 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
2.2. Resource Production And
Management Policies
2.2.1 PRODUCTIVE AGRICULTURAL LANDS IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.2.1 The continued agricultural use of
the Brunswick County's remaining
farmlands shall be encouraged.
2.2.2 COMMERCIAL FOREST LANDS
Policy 2.2.2 Brunswick County supports
commercial forestry as a major land
use, provided significant adverse
Impacts on natural resource
systems are minimized.
2.2.3 MINERAL PRODUCTION AREAS
Mineral production and mining
activities will be considered on a
case by case review of economic
benefits and environmental and
land use Impacts.
(1) The proposed zoning ordinance, once
adopted, will be reviewed from time to time as
to standards for preservation and protection of
the better agriculture lands in the county.
(2) The County will encourage the State and
Federal Government to develop appropriate
regulations over storm drainage and soil
erosion from agricultural and forestry activities.
(1) The County supports studies regarding the
feasibility of using wood chips and residual
bark to supplement solid waste combustion to
provide sufficient fuel for large scale steam
generation or gaseous energy.
(2) The County will encourage the State and
Federal Government to develop appropriate
regulations over storm drainage and soil
erosion from agricultural and forestry activities.
(1) The locations of mineral production and
mining activities will be controlled by the
County's proposed zoning ordinance. After
adoption of the ordinance, no State
permission will be granted in violation of the
County zoning.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 164 Glenn Harbeck Associates I

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
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2.2.4 COMMERCIAL AND RECREATIONAL
FISHERIES IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.2.4 Brunswick County supports effc
to maintain and enhance the
fisheries resource of Its waters,
Including better fisheries
management and enforcement,
and aquaculture development
activities.
2.2.5 OFF ROAD VEHICLES
(1) The County will support educational
seminars to inform local area residents and
business people about the potential for
aquaculture development in the county. Such
educational seminars may include courses at
County high schools, efforts of the local
Extension Service, and course work at
Brunswick Community College.
(2) The County will request the assistance of
the Duke Marine Lab and local economic
development interests to establish significant
aquacultural operations in Brunswick County.
(3) The County will continue to provide funding
in support of the artificial reef program
involving, for example, the sinking of old boats
and railroad cars.
(4) The County will call upon and cooperate
with the State and Federal government for
improved marine fisheries management.
(5) The County will continue to press for
implementation of the demonstration project,
approved by Congress as part of the Water
Resources Development Act of 1992, to
reopen the eastern channel of the Lockwood
Folly River.
Policy 2.2.5 Brunswick County discourages the (1) The County Magistrate and the Sheriff's
use of off -road vehicles In all Department will be called upon as necessary to
fragile areas because of potential enforce trespassing laws involving off road
adverse environmental impacts. vehicles on properly posted private property,
as provided for in the General Statutes.
2.2.6 DEVELOPMENT IMPACTS
See table of contents to Identify policies and
Implementation actions concerning particular
development types.
2.2.7 PEAT OR PHOSPHATE MINING IMPACTS
See general mining policy and implementation
actions set forth previously under section 2.2.3.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 165 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda I
Section 2.3 Economic And
Community Development
Policies
2.3.1 TYPES AND LOCATIONS OF INDUSTRIES
DESIRED
Note: the Issue of tourism as an Industry Is
discussed under section 2.3.8. IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.3.1 Brunswick County encourages a
development of Industry
throughout the county, provided
such development Is compatible
with surrounding land uses and
that potential environmental
Impacts can be effectively
mitigated.
2.3.2 PROVISION OF SERVICES TO
DEVELOPMENT
Note: Solid waste management, recycling and
disposal are discussed specifically under section
2.3.16.
(1) The new zoning ordinance contains several
manufacturing/industrial zoning districts and an
"economic development overlay district".
Such an overlay district would allow the County
to respond to concrete requests for new
industrial development in an appropriate and
flexible manner.
(2) The County will continue to support efforts
to actively seek blue chip industries with higher
pay scales relative to existing pay scales in the
county.
(3) The County will continue to fund the
Resources Development Commission as a
principal agency in recruiting new industry to
the county, as well as encouraging the
expansion of existing industry.
(4) The County will consider, when justified,
funding of necessary infrastructure and
targeted job training at the Community
College, in support of new industrial activities
in Brunswick County, possibly supplemented
by the full university system available within the
state.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 166 Glenn Harbeck Associates I

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
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Policy 2.3.2 Brunswick County will strive, to th,
best extent possible, to facilitate
the expansion of public services
and facilities to meet the needs of
existing and future populations.
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
(1) The County will continue to expand the
water distribution system in keeping with the
1990 Water Distribution Master Plan.
(2) The County will continue to coordinate
transportation improvements in the area
through updates to the County thoroughfare
plan, and through review and comment on the
transportation improvement program (TIP).
(3) The County will continue to participate in
the development of the Wilmington Urbanized
Area Transportation Plan.
(4) The County Commissions will review
allocations for secondary road improvements
on a regular basis.
(5) The County will continue to provide its
coordinated human services transportation
program.
(6) The County will continue to require right of
way protection as necessary in subdivision
reviews.
(7) The County will continue to support water
and sewer improvement districts by providing
seed money to pay for initial studies, and by
assisting in the preparation of necessary
correspondence and paperwork for grant and
loan applications.
(8) The County will continue to serve in a
coordinating capacity regarding extra territorial
jurisdiction between nearby municipalities (e.g.
Sunset Beach, Calabash).
(9) The County will consider the appointment
of a study committee to re-examine better
utilization of the County's existing parks
facilities, particularly regarding the availability of
community buildings for young people.
(10) The County will request that its legislative
delegation to the General Assembly sponsor a
study to determine the most effective form of
local government for Brunswick County. Such
study should give particular attention to the
provision of services and facilities by the
various service providers in the county. The
study should also include consideration of
model legislation drafted by the US Advisory
Commission on Intergovernmental Relations,
or other reputable sources for such
government form.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 167 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda I
2.3.3 URBAN GROWTH PATTERN DESIRED IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.3.3 Brunswick County will seek to
Improve coordinated development
through the creation and
Implementation of enhanced land
use controls, growth management
policies and the strategic provision
of necessary services and
Infrastructure.
2.3.4 REDEVELOPMENT —INCLUDING
RELOCATION OF THREATENED STRUCTURES
Note: a discussion of structures threatened by
ocean hazards is Included In Section 2.5 (Storm
Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and
Evacuation).
2.3.4 Brunswick County supports and
encourages the restoration of
significant and architecturally
Important historic structures.
Redevelopment of substandard
structures within the county shall
be supported through public and
private sector Initiatives for the
economic betterment of area
residents.
(1) The land classification map will be employed
to direct urban level growth to appropriate
locations where services can be provided.
(2) The County's water distribution system
master plan will be employed to directly
support the transition areas identified in the
land classification map.
(3) The County's proposed zoning ordinance
will target and direct growth to areas consistent
with the land classification map and the water
distribution system.
(4) The County will continue to enforce the
flood damage prevention ordinance as a
means of discouraging inappropriate
development in flood prone areas.
e to
pursue recent initiatives for the County's
participation in the Small Cities Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program,
including opportunities for Section 8 housing
(2) The County will continue to work for higher
paying jobs and enhanced economic
opportunity for local area residents as a means
of providing additional income to residents for
rehabilitation of their homes.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 168 Glenn Harbeck Associates

IBrunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
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2.3.5 COMMITMENT TO STATE AND FEDERAL IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
PROGRAMS
Policy 2.3.5 Brunswick County supports
applicable State and Federal
programs regarding economic and
community development,
especially those programs related
to water quality, fisheries, and
water and road transportation
system Improvements.
2.3.6 CHANNEL MAINTENANCE AND BEACH
RENOURISHMENT
ollcy 2. 3.6 Brunswick County supports the
continued maintenance of
navigable channels and inlets and
the renourishment of the county's
beaches In a timely, coordinated
fashion.
1 2.3.7 ENERGY FACILITIES
11
Iicy 2.3.7 Any new major energy facilities to
be located In Brunswick County
shall, prior to approval, make a full
disclosure of all costs and benefits
associated with the project, and
will further mitigate all potential
adverse Impacts of the project.
(1) The County will continue to participate in
the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
process.
(2) The County will continue to participate in
shared funding of Brunswick Community
College.
(3) The County will continue to operate job
training programs at the County Industrial Park
in coordination with the Community College.
(4) The County will participate in UNC-
Wilmington's new regional economic
development strategic planning program.
(5) The County will continue to press for
implementation of the demonstration project,
approved by Congress as part of the Water
Resources Development Act of 1992, to
reopen the eastern channel of the Lockwood
Folly River.
(1) The County is committed to ongoing
unified support for channel improvements in
waterways throughout the county.
(2) The County will support efforts to place
spoil materials from channel maintenance and
dredging on Brunswick County beaches,
including each of the county's incorporated
beach municipalities, as warranted.
(3) The County will continue to press for
implementation of the demonstration project,
approved by Congress as part of the Water
Resources Development Act of 1992, to
reopen the eastern channel of the Lockwood
(1) The new County zoning ordinance will
include performance standards for private
industry, including energy facilities.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 169 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda ,
2.3.8 TOURISM
olicy 2.3.8 Brunswick County encourages the
development of a high quality
tourism trade as a primary element
of the county's economic future.
Investments In services, facilities,
and growth management shall be
employed In furtherance of this
objective.
2.3.9 COASTAL AND ESTUARINE BEACH WATER
ACCESS
The recent (1990) Brunswick County Shoreline
Access Plan contains a full policy section, which Is
summarized In Section 2.3.9 of the Land Use Plan.
The Access Plan also Includes a total of 43 existing
or potential shoreline access sites Identified In map
form.
Policy 2.3.9 Brunswick County encourages
efforts to provide reasonable
public access to the county's
beaches, shores, and waterfronts,
In accordance with the County's
shoreline access plan which Is
adopted herein by reference.
2.3.10 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
Policy 2.3.10 A variety of residential
development types Is encouraged
within those areas of Brunswick
County Identified as appropriate by
the land classification map in
concurrence with the provision of
necessary urban services.
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
(1) The County will continue to provide funding
on an annual basis to the Southport -Oak Island
and South Brunswick Chambers of Commerce
for tourism promotion.
(2) The County has begun and will continue to
develop a Clean County Program, the purpose
of which is to educate and organize public and
private organizations and individuals to
enhance the county's appearance.
(1) The County will continue to work toward
implementation of the 1990 Brunswick County
Shoreline Access Plan.
(1) The new zoning ordinance will
accommodate a variety of residential
development forms including but not limited
to: patio homes, townhomes, manufactured
homes, zero lot line and flag lot developments,
cluster developments, as well as traditional
single family subdivision developments.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 170 Glenn Harbeck Associates I

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2.3.11 COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Policy 2.3.11 Brunswick County encourages
commercial development In
appropriate locations throughout
the County; the County
discourages commercial strip
development.
2.3.12 BEAUTIFICATION
Policy 2.3.12 Brunswick County shall employ a
combination of Incentives and
controls to encourage
beautification measures which
preserve the natural amenities of
the community, especially as seen
from the county's main highways
and roadways leading to the
beaches.
2.3.13 AIRPORTS
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
(1) The proposed zoning ordinance includes
two commercial districts designed to
accommodate a broad spectrum of commercial
development. These districts include:
commercial -low density, commercial -
manufacturing, heavy manufacturing and rural -
industrial.
(2) The County will continually work to improve
road access standards to protect the integrity
of, particularly, significant traffic -carrying
roadways through the county and to the
beaches.
(1) The new zoning ordinance will provide f
sign regulations appropriate for Brunswick
County. Once adopted, these sign
regulations will be reviewed periodically for
their effectiveness.
(2) The County has begun and will continue to
develop a Clean County program, the purpose
of which is to educate and organize public and
private organizations and individuals to
enhance the county's appearance.
(3) The County will update its previous
investigation of the feasibility of establishing
tree preservation standards for outstanding
and historic trees in the unincorporated area.
(4) Efforts to eliminate the number of "green
box" trash receptacles in the county will
continue. Screening of privately owned green
boxes will be encouraged.
(5) The proposed zoning ordinance
establishes development standards over
outdoor advertising structures.
Policy 2.3.13 Brunswick County will encourage (1) The County will continue to enforce air
land development patterns which space zoning for the Brunswick County
allow for adequate airport Airport, in keeping with the wishes of the
expansion and development. jurisdiction within which the airport falls, the
Southeastern Sanitary District.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 171 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
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2.3.14 EDUCATION
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.3.14(a)
The attainment of a quality
(1) In light of the critical importance of primary
educational system shall be
education to the future of Brunswick County,
recognized as a critical factor In
the County Commissioners, in coordination
the future economic development
with Board of Education and the Brunswick
of Brunswick County.
Community College Board of Trustees, and
with appropriate assistance from the UNC
System, will place increasing emphasis on the
development of a quality educational system in
the county. The important linkage between a
good educational system and economic
development/quality of life issues will be
emphasized during such efforts.
Policy
Responsibility for Improvements to
(1) Activities which encourage on -going school
2.3.14(b)
the educational system shall not
visitations and workshops by parents, and by
be placed solely with policy
leaders in business and industry shall be
makers, professional educators
especially emphasized.
and administrators. Programs and
actions which emphasize (1)
parental Involvement and (2)
assistance from the business
community shall be strongly
pursued.
Policy 2.3.14(a)
Appropriate educational and
(1) The County will continue to provide support
training programs shall be
for the Brunswick Community College
encouraged to help unemployed
Industrial Education Center, housed in
and underemployed local residents
Brunswick County's Industrial Park in the
take advantage of business
Leland area.
expansion and to stay abreast of
new technologies.
2.3.15 RETIREES
Policy 2.3.15 Brunswick County shall encourage (1) The County will work with developers to
retiree recruitment programs which increase local area awareness of the
are designed to attract a higher opportunities to market their developments to
Income, more highly educated retirees with above average incomes, relative
population subgroup. to the national norm.
2.3.16 WASTE MANAGEMENT
Policy 2.3.16(a) Local area requirements for solid (1) Long range planning for the County's
waste disposal facilities shall landfill needs, as well as alternative waste
continue to be anticipated through disposal methods, shall continue.
advanced planning; facilities shall
be located and designed so as not
to adversely Impact significant
natural or manmade sources.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 172 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Pollcy2.3.16(b)
Brunswick County recognizes the
(1) The County will continue to explore.
need for a regional solution to the
opportunities for joint regional recycling in
solid waste Issue. and will support
cooperation with adjacent cities and counties.
efforts toward that end.
Policy 2.3.16(c)
Research and development of
(1) The County will undertake an education
recycling and resource recovery
and enforcement program to curtail
programs, whether public or
construction material dumping at trash
private, shall be encouraged and
collection sites.
supported.
(2) The County will continue to coordinate the
recycling efforts of the incorporated
municipalities in cooperation with those of the
County.
2.3.17 GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT CONTROLS
Policy 2.3.17 Brunswick County supports growth
management provided by
continued Improvements to land
use and development controls and
Is committed to the proper
enforcement of such ordinances.
(1) Ongoing efforts to introduce county -wide
zoning in the unincorporated area of the
county will continue to be a priority.
(2) The feasibility of establishing tree
preservation measures, either has a separate
ordinance, or as an addition to the zoning
ordinance, will be investigated.
(3) Administration and improvement of the
County's subdivision regulations will continue.
(4) The County will support State initiatives for
the appropriate regulation of livestock
production facilities.
(5) Sign regulations, if implemented as
proposed in the County zoning ordinance, will
be evaluated and refined periodically as to their
appropriateness for the predominantly rural
character of Brunswick County.
(6) The County will accommodate and provide
proper planning for four classes of
manufactured housing, as specified in the
zoning ordinance.
(7) Commercial zoning districts and driveway
access standards will be implemented and
periodically refined to discourage inappropriate
stripping of development along the county's
highways.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 173 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda I
2.4 Public Participation Policies
Note: the public participation plan and program for
the Brunswick County land use plan is discussed
fully In section 5 of this document. IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.4.1 (a)
Brunswick County shall continue to
(1) The County will continue to conduct special
employ public participation
public meetings as necessary to address
techniques at public meetings
important growth issues and proposals in
which actively Involve the public in
Brunswick County.
identifying and discussing
planning issues, thereby
(2) The County will continue to provide
facilitating a form of "engaged"
advance notice and interviews with the press in
education. Media attention
an effort to inform the public as to the purpose
concerning such meetings Is also
of public meetings in advance of such
strongly encouraged and
meetings.
thankfully acknowledged, for the
public service they provide.
Policy 2.4.1 (b)
Citizen Input In the development
(1) The Planning Board will periodically
of growth policies shall be
evaluate its effectiveness in achieving this
supported through attention given
policy, and will consider special actions to
to the issues and priorities which
encourage participation.
the public identified during early
Input meetings.
Policy 2.4.1 (c)
Following plan adoption,
(1) The County will continue to provide for
Brunswick County shall employ
open meetings of the Planning Board and
frequent, constructive and open
County Commissioners in both the letter and
regular meetings of the Planning
spirit of the open meetings law of the State of
Board and County Commissioners
North Carolina.
as the primary vehicle for engaging
public participation in on -going
(2) To facilitate constructive input, and so as
planning Issues and development
not to keep otherwise unscheduled speakers
projects.
waiting, the Planning Board will continue to
schedule opportunities for public input in
advance of selected meetings.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 174 Glenn Harbeck Associates I

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda
2.5 Storm Hazard Mitigation,
Post -Disaster Recovery and
Evacuation Plan
2.5.1 STORM HAZARD MITIGATION
IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
Policy 2.5.1(a)
Brunswick County shall discourage
(1) The County will continue to enforce the
high Intensity uses and large
flood damage prevention ordinance.
structures from being constructed
within the 100-year floodplain,
erosion -prone areas, and other
locations susceptible to hurricane
and flooding hazards.
Policy 2.5.1(b)
Brunswick County shall not
(1) The County will continue to push for the re -
participate in the purchase of land
mapping of flood hazard areas to provide a
parcels located In hazard areas or
more accurate picture of land located in
rendered unbuildable by storms or
hazardous locations.
other events, for the purposes of
shorefront access.
Policy 2.5.1(c)
Brunswick County shall continue to
(1) The County will continue to provide
enforce the North Carolina building
building inspections services for the
code, particularly those provisions
unincorporated area, as well as some of the
which require construction
municipalities in the county, including the
standards to meet resistive factors,
enforcement of all provisions relative to storm
Le. design, wind velocity.
safety and resistance.
Policy 2.5.1(d)
Brunswick County encourages the
Note: No action necessary as this policy is
placement of utilities underground
being implemented on a broad scale by nearly
for all new development.
all developers.
Policy 2.5.1(e)
Brunswick County shall employ
(1) Continual improvements in the County's
growth management techniques to
administration of the 911 emergency system
facilitate effective emergency
will be sought.
evacuation. The County shall also
cooperate on a regional basis with
(2) The street signage program will continue.
emergency evacuation planning
efforts.
(3) The county -wide street naming and
addressing program will continue.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 175 Glenn Harbeck Associates

Brunswick County Land Use Plan Action Agenda I
2.5.2 POST DISASTER RECONSTRUCTION IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS
2
Policy 2.5.2(b)
Policy 2.5.2(c)
Policy 2.5.2(d)
Policy 2.5.2(e)
The Board of County
Commissioners of Brunswick
County shall be ultimately
responsible for supervising the
Implementation of polices and
procedures contained in the
disaster relief and assistance plan,
and the post -disaster recovery
policies of the land use plan.
In the event of extensive hurricane
damage to public utilities requiring
replacement or relocation of these
utilities, efforts shall be made to
locate damaged utilities away from
hurricane hazard areas or to
strengthen their construction.
Priority will be given to those
repairs that will restore service to
as many persons as soon as
possible.
The Board of County
Commissioners may declare a
moratorium of up to 180 days on
the permitting of any new
construction, Including new utility
hookups, or redevelopment
construction that would Increase
the intensity of the Land uses
existing before the hurricane.
Brunswick County shall continue to
work closely with emergency
management agency personnel In
the preparation of the County's
evacuation plan. The County shall
also continue to press for
necessary Improvements for
effective evacuation of threatened
areas.
(1) The County's new Emergency Services
Center will serve as a logical command center
for the directives of the County Commissioners
during and after a major storm event.
(1) The County will monitor all reconstruction
efforts involving both public and private
utilities, including roads, to provide for less
vulnerable redevelopment after a hurricane.
(1) This policy will be implemented in
accordance with the best practices of public
and private utilities regarding the restoration of
service following a major storm event.
(1) Implementation of any such moratorium will
be carried out if, in the opinion of the Board of
County Commissioners, insufficiently planned
new construction would result in a compromise
of the public health, safety, and general
welfare.
(1) The County will employ the new
Emergency Services Center as a convenient
facility to coordinate storm preparation efforts.
Brunswick County Planning Board page 176 Glenn Harbeck Associates
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m m m m m m m m m m m m � = m w m m

OCT 19
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TOWN OF VARNAMTOWN !
505 Sabbath Home Rd.
Supply, NC 28462
October 15, 1992
Brunswick County
P.O. Box 249
3395 Ocean Hwy E.
Bolivia, NC 28422
Dear Sir:
The Town of Varnamtown, Board of Aldermen met on Monday
October 12, 1992 and -made the following resolution.
We resolve to approve submission of the Community and
Land Use Plan draft for review.
We hope this information will be of help to you in this
program.
Sincerely,
Judy Galloway
Mayor
cc Haskell Rhett
1
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The Village of Bald H
October 19, 1992
Mr. John Harvey
Planning Dept. — Brunswick County
P.O. Box 249
Bolivia, NC 28422
Dear Mr. Harvey:
The Village of Bald Head Island met in monthly session on
October 17, 1992. The council discussed the section of the
1992 Brunswick County Land Use Plan that referred to Bald
Head Island and agreed unanimously that the statements as
presented were satisfactory to our governing body.
We are pleased to be able to cooperate in getting your plan
before the CRC for approval.
Sincerely,
Wallace Mart
Town Manager
1
P.O. BOX 3009 - BALD HEAD ISLAND, NC 28461 - [phone] - FAX [phone]
11

WOII013
;uacun�oQ n�aN
III II I III I I IIII I III

DCM COPY
DCM COPY
lease do not remove!!!!!
Division of Coastal Management Copy
r( -
BRUNSWICK COUNTY,
NORTH CAROLINA
N.C. COASTAL AREA MANAGEMENT ACT LAND USE PLAN UPDATE

The preparation of this report was financed in part through a grant
provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through
funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as
amended, which is administered by the Office of Coastal Zone
Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

BRJNSWICK OXWN, N.C.
C.A.M.A. IM USE PIAN UPDATE
originally adopted by the Board of County Commissioners on
November 10, 1980. Following revisions required by the North
Carolina Coastal Resources Commission, and following new.
Public Hearing on February 9 and 10, 1981, adopted by the
Board of County Commissioners on February 16 with the
exception of three parcels of land where final adoption was
on .March 2, 1981.

.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Subject
Matter
Page
Introduction.............................................
1
Part I
Data Collection and Analysis
A. Community Profile ..........................
3
B. Land Use Survey and Analysis .... ..... ...
33
C. Current Land Use Regulations .... ...
47
D. Assessment of Past Plan's Problems and Issues
59
Part II
: Constraints to Development
A. Land Suitability ............................
75
B. Community Capacity ..........................
104
Part III
: Policy Development and Implementation
A. Public Participation ........................
114
B. Policy Statements .............................
118
C. Policy Implementation ...... ........ ...
134
Part IV--:
Land Classification
A. Purpose .....................................
140
B. Land Classes .................................
140
C. Relationship of Land Classification Map to
Policy Statements .........................
143
Part V
Land Classification Map ........................
Folded*
in -back.
Appendix
I Oil Refineries ..................... ....
i
Appendix II. Acres, by Classification ................... iv
Appendix III. Comparative Analysis of 1975 and 1981 Plans vi
Appendix IV. Retirees. ...... xx,ix
r

•
Introduction
In 1974, the North Carolina General Assembly enacted a General Statute
entitled the "Coastal Area Management Act". This legislation, which has
become known as "C.A.M.A.", mandates a land use planning process for
twenty counties together with their municipalities.
General purpose local governments are given the option of preparing
such plans, or face the alternative of having a state -prepared plan
superimposed upon them.
The legislation further created a North Carolina Coastal Resources Cammi-
sion which body was given authority to create administrative law in fur-
therance of the intent of this statute. Such a cc mission was appointed
and has created a significant body of administrative law.
Land Use Plans, accordingly, within this twenty -county portion of the
state, must be prepared to the requirements of the statutory law and
the administrative law.
Before the Plan can be considered "in effect", following local govern-
ment adoption, it has to be filed with and approved by the N.0 Coastal
Resources Catmission.
Brunswick County chose the option of suggesting its own future. Accord-
_ingly, on November 4, 1975, the Board of County Commissioners adapted
a Land Use Plan, which in turn was adopted by the N.C. Coastal Resources
Camlmission.
These C.A.M.A. Land Use Plans are required to be updated at five year
intervals: This document is that update.
The reader who is familiar with and makes use of a traditional oompre
hensive Plan or its Land Use Element is cautioned due to the unique nat-
ure of a C.A.M.A. Land Use Plan. It is not a typical eanprehensive plan
or Land Use Plan as those terns are known and accepted for most of the
Nation. It has its own language and terminology, required by statute.
It follows a structure and inclusion/exclusion process required by
administrative law.
A C.A.M.A. Land Use Plan has one other very distinctive feature. For
most of the United States, and indeed the nations of the Earth, a Plan
is silly a Policy Statement to guide public and private actions toward
L,desired goals to a designed future social, economic and physical future.
In North Carolina, the Plan becomes a regulatory instrument in part.
This regulatory function is seen through that position of the N.C.
Department of Natural Resources and Cmmunity Development by which no
state -required development permission in their jurisdiction will be
granted in conflict with an adopted C.A.M.A. Land Use Plan.
•
The N.C. Coastal Resources Cammission informs local gov+errnnents that,
1

in keeping with the intent of the statute, they have agreements whereby
other state camnissions, authorities, boards and departments are cam-
mitted to observe these plans, insofar as cra development review and
permitting processes of those agencies canes into play. As to public
investment decisions, however, of state agencies, the Plan serves its
traditional process as an informal guide. Certain federal agencies have
agreed to accept these C.A.M.A. Land Use Plans as informal guides in
their public investment decisions, as well.
This Land Use Plan has been prepared within both the statutory and the
administrative law of the North Carolina Coastal Area Manac;c----,.it Act.
Further, under the guidance of the County Planning Board and the Board
of County Commissioners, with significant public participation, it has
been prepared as a policy statement guide for that future envisiored by
the citizens of Brunswick County as their designed goal for the ten
year intervals of 1990 and 2000.
i
a
t
S
2

PART I
DATA COLLECTION
AND
ANALYSIS

A. COMMUNITY PROFILE
1. POPULATION
t
a. Introduction
Supporting services such as schools, roads, fire protection,
police protection, recreation, water, sewer, garbage collection,
libraries and medical care facilities are based upon the population
they are to serve.
Brunswick county has both a year-round permanent resident population
and a six-month seasonal population. Brunswick County's people repre-
sent many different characteristics, all of which need to be recognized
and addressed in preparing plans and programs.
There are rural settlements, farms, egging urban areas, urban areas,
low and moderate income areas as well as high income areas. There are
areas where a large percentage of the residents work in industry, others
in business, and still others in tourist -oriented activities. A signi-
ficant retired population has resulted from in -migration.
Another factor to be considered is the density/intensity of use
pattern. Areas of population concentrations with heavy activities have.
*' a greater need for certain services, especially water and sewer, than
areas of low density/intensity.
This section includes a discussion of the historic and current pop-
ulation of Brunswick -County. The historic population statistics show
the changes and trends that have and are occurring. Population is
never static and change is always occurring, as an on -going process.
Population changes in four (4) different ways: births, deaths,
people moving into the area (in -migration) and people mowing out of the
area .(out -migration). Brunswick County has experienced dramatic chan—
ges since 1960. The County had large out -migrations until 1960, and
large in -migrations since then.
Therefore, it is the purpose of this section to provide basic pop-
ulation data on which future residential and camnercial land require-
ments can be determined.
b. Growth, Size, and Distribution.
Brunswick County Population
Brunswick County's first northern European settlement was in 1700,
although same explorations were made 200 years earlier. In 1764, Bruns
wick County was formed from Bladen and New Hanover Counties.
• The first U.S. Census was taken in 1790, aryl listed a county pcpu-
lation of 3,071. From 1790 through 1900, each ten year period has a
population increase of 14 percent or more with two Mweptions, 1830 to
1840 and 1860 to 1870. Since then, the growth rate has increased incre-
mentally.
3

Township Boundaries as of February, 1981
3A
r

J
1
4
s
r
BRUNSWICK COUNTY POPULATION CHANGE
1960-1980
Increase Over
Percentage
Year
Population
Decade
Change
1960•
200,278
1,040
5.4
1970
24,223
3,945
19.5
1980
35,349*
11,126
45.9
Source: 1960, 1970 U.S. Census
1980, October, 1980, Preliminary count from 1980 Census*
Population change within the County can be revealed to some degree
comparing townships from 1960 to 1970. Lockwood Folly, Northwest,
Shallotte, Smithville, and Town Creek Townships experienced population
growth while Waccamaw Township experienced a decrease.
POPULATION CHANGE BY TOWNSHIP AND
PERCENTAGE OF COUNTY TOTAL
Lockwood
Folly
Northwest
Shallotte
Smithville
Creek
Waccamaw
1960 Population
4,289
2,169
4,210
3,355
4,363
1,892
1950-1960 Change
450
- 233
427
482
232
-318
Percentage Change
11.7%
-9.7%
11.3%
16.8%
5.7%
-14.4%
County % of
21.2%
10.7%
20.7%
16.5%
21.5 %
9.3%
1970 Population
4,748
3,356
4,877
4,346
5,215
1,681
1960-70 Change
459
1,187
667
991
852
-211
Percentage Change
10.7% -
54.7%
15.8%
29.5%
19.5%
-11.2%
Percentage of
county A of
19.6$
13.9%
20.1%
17.9%
21.6%
6.9%
1•ne -UMU Census details are not yet available. Some idea of growth
can be seen. from building permits for unincorporated areas.
Building permit records are not available for the 1970-1975 period.
Below is the building permit summary for 1975-1979.
BRUNSWICK COUNTY RESIDENTIAL UNIT PERMITS
1975-1979
Number
Percentage of
Township
of Permits
Permits
Lockwood Folly
144
26
Northwest
65
12
Shallotte
266
41
Smithville
4 22
04
Town Creek
62
12
Waccamaw
25
05
Total
544
100
4

In 1940, there Caere three incorporated towns in Brunswick County;
Shallotte, Southport, and Bolivia. By 1960, the number had increased.to
six as Ocean Isle Beach, Long Beach, and Yaupon Beach were'added. By
1970, Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, and Boiling Spring Lakes had incorpo
rated bringing the total to nine. Between 1970 and 1975, three more
towns, Calabash and Shady Forest in the southwest section of the County
and Caswell Beach on Oak Island have incorporated, bringing the total to
twelve. Since that time, there has been the incorporation of two more,
Belville and Navassa in the northwestern section of the County. Shady
Forest is listed by the Secretary of State as "Municipality, Inactive".
The fastest growing areas in the County are those areas closely re-
lated to the Cape Fear River and along both the mainland and islands of
the Atlantic Ocean. In those sectors, the County has, or is rapidly
achieving, a true urban character by the extent, density, and intensity
of the development that has occurred during the 1970's. The urbanizing
area is around the Cape Fear River -oriented lands, the Shallotte and
Lockwood Folly Rivers, the mainland side of the marshes (sounds) and
Intracoastal Waterway, and along the islands.
Fran 1960 to 1969, total number of births was 4, 560. Frcm 1970 to
1979, there were 5,500 total births. The 1970-1979 total number of r
deaths was about 2,350.
Total birth rate has declined fran 22.0% from 1960-1969 to a 1975-
1978 rate of 15.9%. Total death rate was 9.8% in the 1960-1969 period
and has declined to a 1975-1978 rate of 7.5%.
The Black birth rate was higher than the Mite birth rate in the
1960-1969 period (26.0/20.0), was slightly less than the Mite rate in
the 1970-1974 period (20.3/20.7), and was again much greater than the
White rate in the 1975-1978 period (18.2/15.1).
a
5

BIRTHS, DEATHS, NATURAL INCREASE
TOTALS AND RATES PER THOUSAND POPULATION
1960-1978
1960-1969
1970-1974
1975-1978
Mite
BiTrth
2681
1938
1463
Deaths
1336
801
754
Natural Increase
1345
1137
705
Black
Births
1879
807
632
Deaths
700
373
233
Natural Increase
1179
434
399
Total
B r
4560
2745
2095
Deaths
2036
1174
.
987
Natural Increase
2524
1571
1108
RATE PER THOUSAND
White
Birth Rates
20.0
20.7
15.1
Death Rates
9.9
8.6
7.8
Nat. Inc. Rates
10.0
12.2
7.4
Black
Birth Rates
26.0
20.3
18.2
Death -Rates
9.7
9.4
6.7
Nat. Inc. Rates
16.3
10.9
11.45
Total
Birth Rates
22.0
20.6
15.9
Death Rates .
9.8
8.8
7.5.
Nat. Inc. Rates
14.5
11.8
8.4
SOURCE: Vital Statistics, N.C.
Department of Human Resources
6

C.
Migration
Migration is expressed as "in-ngraticn" for persons moving into the
County or "out -migration" for persons moving out of the 0:)mty
Net •Migration
For example, Brunswick County population in 1960 was 20,278. The natural
increase between 1960 and 1970 was 2,524. Therefore, if no one had moved into
or out of the County, the 1970 population would have been 22,802. Since the
1970 actual population was 24,223, there was a net gain, or in -migration of
.1,421 persons.
In 1970, the County's population was 24,223. The natural increase lictween
1970 and 1978 was 2,679. Therefore, if no one had moved into or out of the
County, the 1978.pcpulation would have been 26,902. The State estimated the
1978 population at 331659, which would have included an in -migration in eight
years of 6,657 persons..
NET MIGRATION, 1960-1978
1960-1970
1960 Population 20,278
Natural Increase
2,524
Projected 1970
Natural Popula-
tion
22,802
Actual 1970
Population
24,223
Gain by
Migration
1,421.
1970-1974
1970 Population 24,223
Natural Increase 1,571
Projected 1974
Natural Popula-
tion 25,794.
19754978
1975 Pcpulation.32,551
Natural Increase 1,108
Projected 1978
Natural Popula-
tion 33,659
SOURCE: U.S. Census and Vital Statistics, N.C. Department of Human Re-
sources
7

1
,^
Although there is no way to actually determine all the reasons of
in or out -migration, there are some that are the most probable. The
primary reason was economic. Up until the late 1960's, Brunswick County
had few job opportunities for its citizens and farnis were on the decline.
other areas offered many jobs, so persons moved.
The true beginning of industrialization of the County was in the
date 1960's. A growing number of people moved to Brunswick County to
retire. Brunswick County is a part of the Wilmington S.M.S.A. as well,
and residential and commercial growth of New Hanover County is rapidly
spreading to Brunswick County. There is only a five minute drive from
Brunswick County to the heart of the Central Business District of Wilming-
ton.
d . Population Characteristics
With increase in the number o
have been changes in the character
following data is as of 1970. The
able.
(1) Marital Status
f
people in Brunswick County, there
of the population. Most of the
1980 Census Data is not yet avail-
The marital status is applied as a statistical "adult" base by the State
to persons 14 years old or older and has these classifications;
Single, Married, and Widowed, Divorced or Separated. Since in or out -
migration greatly affects total number, the percentage of the total pop-
ulation in each category alone shows the trends.
Fran 27% of the "adult" population being single in 1950, the percen-
tage dropped 23% in 1970. The percentage of married persons has de-
clined slightly from 65-1/2% in 1950 to 65% in 1970. Widowed, Divorced
or Separated increased from 7-1/2% in 1950 to 12% in 1970.
There is only one common trend for both the white and black popu-
lations. The percentage of Widowed, Divorced or Separated increased
from 1950 to 1970 for both. The white percentage nose from 7% to 10-1/2%
and the black percentage from 8-1/2% to 15%.
other than that, the white and black populations have opposite
trends. -The black population followed the national trends by having an
increasingly larger percentage of single persons, 31-1/2% in 1970, while
the percentage of married persons fell from 60% to 49-1/2%. Single per-
centage declined from 24-1/2% to 19% and the married percentage rose from
68-1/2% to 71% in white population.
The trends for the white males and females were the same as the
trends for the black females. A larger percentage of males, both whites
and blacks, were single, than females in each census year. The females,
both white and black, had a greater percentage of Widowed, Divorced or
Separated than males. The percentage of married was about equal for
males and females.
F

MARITAL STATUS
1950
1960
1970
Total White
Black
Total White Black
Total White Black
Total Persons
19,238
12,204
7,034
20,278
13,103
7,175
24,223
16,780
7,443
Male, 14 and
over
6,424
4,285
2,139
6,707
4,637
2,070
8,445
6,200
2,245
Single
2,031
1,268
763
2,003
1,214
789
2,283
1,426
857
Married
4,122
2,837
1,285
4,289
3,156
1,133
5,566
4,393
1,173
Widowed, Divorced
or Separated
271
180
91
415
267
148
.596
381
215
Female, 14 and
over
6,226
4,042
2,184
f,695
4,552
2,143
8,788
6,191
2,597
Single
1,394
786
608
1,424
754
670
1,757
897
860
Married
4,158
2,855.
1,303
4,307
3,186
1,121
5,603
41'383
1,220
Widowed, Divorced
or Separated
674
401
273
964
612
352
4,428
911
517

e Age Groups
The population of Brunswick County is growing older corresponding
to the National trend. There are five factors influencing this trend in
the 0ounty.
First, the out -migration that occurred by whites prior
to 1960 and by Blacks prior to 1970 was of persons under 30 years of
age, those most likely to bear children. Second,. the in -migration of
whites between 1960 and 1970 was of persons over 30 years of age; per-
sons less likely to bear children, though many had children when they
moved to the County.
Third, the birth rate declined significantly between 1950 and 1970,
while fourth, the death rate also declined significantly.
The fifth factor was a large in -migration of retired persons.
From 1950 to 1970, the percentage of persons under 18 years of age
dropped fran 42.5% to 37.4%, while persons 65 and older rose from 5.9%
to 8.4%.- In 1950, the Median Age was 22.6, which increased almost 4
years to 26.4 in 1970. The decline in the total death rate and for the
vbite birth rate seems to have stabilized. The Black birth rate reached
the Mite level in the 1970-1974 period and may stabilize at that point.
n
10:

POPULATION AGE GROUPS
19 5 0-1970
1950
1960
1970
6,257
6,658
8,492
Mite Males
Percent Under 18
N/A
38.9%
34.6
Percent Over 65
6.8%
8.2%
8.7%
.Median Age
N/A
27.8
28.8
Miite Females
5,947
6,445
8,'288
Percent Under 18,
N/A
37.1%
32.4%
Percent Over 65
6.0%
7.7%
9.2%
Median Age
N/A
28.0
29.7
Black Males
3,471
3,569
3,459
Percent Under 18
N/A
52.1%
48.3%
Percent Over 65
4.6%
5.7%
6.4%
Median
N/A
17.4
18.9
Black Females
3,563
3,606
3,720
Percent,Under 18
N/A
50.2%
45.0%
Percent Over 65
5.5%
6.0%
6.7%
Median Age
N/A
18.2
20.8
Total Males
9,728
10,277
12,054
Percent Under 18
N/A
43.E
38.2%
Percent Over 65
6.0%
7.3%
8.1%
Median Age
N/A
N/A
25.8 .
Total Females
9,510
10,051
12,169
Percent Under 18
N/A
41.8%
135.%
Percent Over 65
5.8%
7.1%
8 . -A
Median Age
N/A
N/A
27.0
Total Population
19,238
20,278
24,223
Percent Under 18
42.5%
42.E
37.4
Percent Over: 65
5.90
7.Z
8.4%
Median Age
22.6
23.9
26.4
Source: U.S. Census
A

f. Farm Population
In 1950,-53% of the persons in Brunswick County lived on farms.
From 1950 to 1960, the exodus from the farms made a major inpact on the
County. Over 4,200 people left the farms and sought living elsewhere.
This decline in farm population corresponds very closely with the out -mi-
gration of the same decade. By 1960, the farm population had declined to
28% of total population.
This trend continued to 1970 as the farm population declined further
to 13%. -
FARM/NON-FARM POPULATION 1950-1960-1970
Number
Percent
Number
Percent
Number
Percent
Total Population.,,19,238
100.0
20,278
100.0
24,223
100.0
Non -Farm
9,259
48.1
14,564
71.8
21,006
86.7
Farm
9,979
51.9
5,714
28.2
3,217
13.3
Non -Farm Total
9.259
100.0
14,564
100.0
21,006
100.0
White
5,721
61.8
9,465
65.0
14,636
69.7
Black
3,538
38.2
5,099
35.0
6.370
30.3
i
Farm Total
9,979
100.0
5,714
100.0
3,217
100.0
White
6,483
65.0
3,640
63.7
2,309
71.8
Blade
3,496
35.0
2,074
36.3
908
28.3
SOURCE: U.S. Census
i .
In early 1980, an estimate was made by the Brunswick County Agricul-
tural Stabilization and Conservation Service that Brunswick County's pop-
ulation was 7% farm and 93% non -farm.
r
0
12

g Educational Attainment
The number of high school graduates entering some form of further
training other than college has been up and down, from 6.2% in 1963, to .
25.4% in 1979.
The educational attainment of Brunswick County's residents in-
creased significantly from 1950 to 1970. Of the two measuring devices,
the percentage of High School Graduates has shown the most change, in-
creasing over four times from 7.2% to 29.5% The increase in Median
School Years completed has not been as spectacular, rising:frcm 7.3
years to 9.2 years.
EDUCATION ATTAINMENT
PERSONS 25 YEARS AND OLDER
1950-1960-1970
Persons 25 years or older
1950
Persons %
Persons
1960
%
1970
Persons %
8,940
9,873
12,539
No School Completed
600
6.8
438
4.4
193
1.5
Elementary, 1-4 years
5-7 years
8 years
2,025
3,245
785
23.1
36.9
8.9
1,905
994
19.3
10.1
1,212 9.7 .
1,292 10.3
High School, 1-3 years
4 years
1,500
265
17.1
3.0
1,361
1,523
13.8
15.4
3,345
2,627
26.7
21.6
College, 1-3 years
4 years
220
145
2.5
1.7
304
224
3.1
2..3
569
501
4.5
4.0
Not Reported
155
Percent High School Grads
7.2
20.8
29.5
Median School Years Completed
7.3
7.6
9.2
SOURCE U.S. CENSUS
., f
13

R
`4
2. HOUSING
a. Introduction
Part of the biennial census concerns housing.. The Census provides
information in size, age, value and occupancy of housing and serves as
an indicator of trends and living conditions.
One important change was made in the 1970 Census when the previous
classifying of housing into categories of sound, deteriorating and dila-
pidated was dropped preventing canparisons with previous years.
In March, 1980, the Brunswick County Planning Department conducted
a partial survey of Brunswick County. This report includes housing data
for 1950, 1960, and 1970. A windshield survey housing count was done
early in 1980 in some areas known to have experienced a great deal of
growth, and in Southport, Yaupon Beach, Caswell Beach, and Holden Beach.
This count found approximately 4,500 more housing units in Brunswick
County than are reported in the preliminary housing count released by
the U.S. Bureau of the Census on October 13, 1980.
Number of Housing Units
County Survey of Spring, 1980 25,622
Preliminary 1980 Census Count 21,061
4,562
b. Mobile Homes and Farm Houses
In 1975 mobile hones contributed 30.9 percent of the County's hous-
ing supply. By 1980, this percent appears to have been slightly reduced
to 29.6. A large number of mobile homes are located on the mainland near
the Intra-Coastal waterway.
3. ECONOMY
a. Introduction
The econany of Brunswick County is constantly undergoing change.
This change affects the population in numbers, in density, level of ser-
vice required, and in the eeonanic well-being of each person. The econ-
any to some level conditions the amount of land development that occurs.
Growth of an area can be somewhat guided through guidance of economic
development. Through planned development, especially of "industry",*
growth can be. guided to areas best suited to sustain such growth. For
these reasons, an. investigation of the econany is an important part of
the planning process.
The base econaay also affects the governmental welcome. Industrial
develcpment nornnally, means costly plants and equipment that make a signi-
ficant contribution to public revenues, and create conditions whereby
additional public services and cost are necessary.
14

While the total economy of an area contrihites to the total picture,
certain activities are considered to be more LtWrtant. These are the
primary basic activities. The stability and growth of any area depends y
directly upon the stability and growth of these economic activities.
b. Existing Economy
For the purpose of this study, the economy of Brunswick County is
divided into two major sections. First are the Primary Economic Activities
which are the basic providers of employment and producers of goods. These
activities can be compared to the foundation of a building, for it is
on these that the economy is built. The other major section is coaPosed
of the Secondary Economic Activities which are the suppliers of services
to fulfill the demands created by the Primary Economic Activities.
These are simple definitions of the functions of each. In
reality, the interworkings of these activities aL-- extremely complex
and it is often difficult to determine whether a.specific
activity should be considered primary or secondary. An excellent
example in Brunswick County is the category of Transportation.
Typically, this would be considered a service and a secondary activity
since it provides for the movement of people and goods. However,
there are port -related industrial activities in the County that provide
solid, basic employment and we have placed these industries under the
Primary Activities, thus giving a Transportation category in both the
Primary and Secondary Activities.
The contributions to the economy of most of the activities are
reported by annual payroll. Exceptions are: Agriculture, reported by
cash receipts of products and government payments; Forestry, value of
harvested trees; cc mercial fishery, value of catch; Tourism, expen
ditures by tourist..
The true contributions of each activity go beyond the reported
amounts as the monies received are used over and over. For example,
a person employed in manufacturing uses part of his pay to purchase
food. The store owner would use part of this income to pay.his
employees who in turn spend a portion of the income for more goods.
This process continues until at sane point after being used by many.
persons within the County, that one manufacturing employee's pay
check finally leaves the County or is placed into savings.
Primary Economic Activities
In 1978, manufacturing was the leading employer and contributed over
$54,446,000 to the economy. By 1979 the manufacturing contribution
had risen to $58,923,000 and was still the leading employer, with 3,324
employees.
In 1978 commercial fisheries ranked second as an employer with nearly
1,800 employees and contributed over $2,160,000 to the economy. By 1979
the number of employees had risen to 2,500 and the econa. c contribution
to $3,121,436. .
,r,

r
In 1978 the transportation activity ranked third in employment with
1,281 employees, with a total economic contribution of $10,286,000.
o By 1979 the transportation activity had increased employees but fell
to fourth place in ranking (tourism became third). The economic contri-
bution for 1979 rose to $15,449,000.
The tourism activity ranked fourth as an employes in 1978 with
1,242 employees. The economic contribution for that year was $22,000,000.
By 1979 tourism had risen to be the third leader in employment with 1,404
employees. The estimated economic contribution for 1979 was $24,844,720.
While current employment figures for agricultural activity are not
available, agriculture was a second ranked economic contributor in 1978,
contributing $30,238,379.
Tourism has consistently ranked third in economic contribution,
transportation fourth, and commercial fisheries fifth. Of the nearly
2,000 licensed commercial fishermen in Brunswick County, probably less
than 50% earn their primary livelihood from the sea.
The total value of wood production in Brunswick County doubled more
than seven times between 1964 and 1979 with an increase from $700,300 to
$12,240,000. Most of this growth was in saw and veneer timber. In 1964
the value of pulpwood was twice that of saw and veneer timber but since
1969, saw and veneer timber has produced greater value than pulpwood.
The 1974 employment in the forestry industry was 70 persons, most
y; of wham were employed by the major paper and timber campanies. This 70
did not include the employees at International Paper's barge loading
facility as they are counted under "transportation". It is also proba-
ble that there are other County residents that engage in pulpwood cut-
ting or sane other phase of forestry work cn apart time basis, the same
as with commercial fishing.
(1). Agriculture
The number of farms and farm population has declined, while the
value of products produced on farms has increased. The increase in farm
product Values can be attributed to a steadily increasing.farm size and
increased product prices.
The total number of farms in Brunswick County is estimated to be
2,666. This figure includes a recommended twenty percent safety factor
for those farms not registering with the A.S.C.S.
On the township level the greatest percentage of farms are in
Shallotte and Town Creek townships, and the least percentages are in
Waccamaw and Northwest Townships. Smithville Township farms are so few
that their totals were included within the Town C:Y_ k Township totals
supplied by the A.S.C.S.
16

BRUNSWICK COUNTY FARMS BY (TOWNSHIP) 1980
Township
Number of Farms
Percentage
Lockwood's Folly
671
25.16
Northwest
463
17.37
Shallotte
535
20.07
Town Creek
535
20.07
Waccamaw
462
17.33
Total
2,666
100.00%
Source: County Agricultural Stabilization & Conservation Service.
In 1980 it is estimated that Brunswick County's population was 7%
farm and 93% non -farm.
In 1978, tobacco was the leading crop, with 2,525 acres harvested.
Flue -cured tobacco is the number one cash crop in the County. The 1978
crop accounted for approximately $7,238,400 of the total farm incase of
the County.
In 1979, tobacco was still the leading crop but had slightly
dropped to 2,337 acres harvested. The inane accounted for by the 1979
tobacco crop also declined to $4,815,501, a substantial reduction.
The Food and Agricultural Act of 1977 authorized the concept of a
normal crop acreage (NCA) for an entire farm. A.S.C.S. County Committees
were -required to establish a normal crop acreage for farms within speci-
fied guidelines. The crops which constitute normal crcp'acreage for
Brunswick County are barley, corn, grain, sorghum, wheat, cotton, oats,.
rye, soybeans and sweet potatoes.
The 1978 program provided that the total acres of NCA crops planted
plus acres set aside and any additional diversion could not exceed a
farm's NCA. Participation in either the grain or wheat program was vol-
untary.
In 1978,. the number of farms with NCA was 1,383. Total NCA acreage
was 25,282. Among the leading crops in this category in 1978, the corn
crop totaled $44,789.48 and the soybean crop totaled $16,695.45.
In 1975, North Carolina Agriculture Statistics reported the number
of chickens in the County to be 30,000; the number of hogs to be 18,100;
and the number of cattle at 2,100. In 1976 chickens had dropped to
29,000; hogs had dropped to 16,200; and cattle to 2,000.
The total faun income from all crops, livestock, and government
payments increased from $11,709,000 in 1973 to $14,903,00 in 1975.
F.]
a
17

CASH RECEIPTS FROM FARM MUMUNG AND GOVERNMENT PAYMENTS
Source
1973
1974
1975
Craps
$8,204,000
$10,063,414
$11,359,000
Livestock
3,390,000
3,747,490
3,509,000
Government
Payments
115,000
26,784
35,000
TOTALS
$11,709,000
$13,837,688
$14,903,000
SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
North Carolina Agriculture Statistics
The total agricultural income was $11.7 million in 1973, 13.8 mil—
lion in 1974, and $14.9 million in 1975. Of this total increase of $3.2
million, $3.1 million was in crops, $119 thousand in livestock, and $8.3
thousand in government payments. Even though there has been a decrease
in the number of farms and the number of livestock, total farm income
increased.
• (2) Commercial Seafood
The Cla mercial Seafood Industry is a vital part of the eoorxm y of
Brunswick County. The true value is difficult to determine because of
�. a large number of small operations, quite often families, do not report
catch or sales. Also, some of the larger dealers do not file poundage or
value reports. Therefore, the following poundage and value figures may
be low.
Year
•. Lbs
Value
1959
•4,086,500
$244,219
1960
14,621,000
487,036
1961
5,299,000
310,311
1962
1,604,400
405,466
1963
908,800
258,209
1964
953,300
271,527
1965
3,128,100
569,957
1966
4,456,700
613,572
1967
7,338,600
472,380
1968
1,932,100
397,204
1969
3,805,600
500,240
1970
5,671,500
535,837
1971
6,017,100
.806,863
1972
16,791,600
979,534
1973
4,641,600
1,203,880
1974
4,654,600
925,344
1975
5,838,000
1,045,777
The average annual value of
the seafood catch in Brunswick
County was $172,000 during the
1936 to 1940 period and even .
with that low value, the
County ranked third in the -State.
By 1960 Brunswick County had
gained the number two position
and it still maintains that
ranking. Carteret County has
remained in first place in
total catch and value since
1963.
Since 1976, most of. the
poundage decreases have been
in oysters and flounders.
18

Year-
1976
1977
1978
Pounds
9,167,800
4,352,000
2,732,000
Value
1,204,674
592,725
3,121,436
Shr�ntp:
Year-
Lbs.
Value
1968
362,700
$ 182,326
1969
522,300
292,886
1970
510,300
248,955
1971
1,017,800
545,932
1972
838,300
447,402
1973
802,800
783,774
1974
723,500
412,192
1975
684,900
624,844
1976
509,200
614,288
1977
180,600
215,374
1978
400,700
543,569
1979
664,700 1
1,596,154
Claims
Year
Lbs
Value
1968
74,900
$ 43,141
1969
56,900
32,141
1970
64,000
37,551
1971
77 „ 300
30,553
1972
49,000
30.010
1973
34,300
29,95i
1974
22,700
30,553
1975
36,600
35,070
1976
39,300
39,517
1977
86,600
121,322
1978
176,100
531,313
1979
219,000
781,011
Quite often a reduced catch means
a higher price per pound and the value
does not fall as much as the catch.
The 1979 catch was the fifth lowest
in pounds since 1959, yet the value
of the 1979 catch was the highest at
over $3.1 million:
r
19

esters:
Year
Lbs
Value
1968
144,800
$94,579
1969
93,000
61,943
1970
85,200
56,808
1971
81,900
54,937
1972
130,800
89,873
1973
116,000
89,341
1974
113,000
86,026
1975
89,700
68,368
1976
61,400
52,321
1977
35,200
29,755
1978
181,000
185,400
.1979
81,9000
93,292
Flounder
Year
Lbs
Value
1968
4,700
$ 1,100
1969
11,400
2,605
1970
13,500
3,207
1971
15,000
4,192
1972
12,900
3,912
1973
63,600.
16,937
1974
39,000
10,970
1975
34,300
11,366
1976
22,300
8,187
1977
28,000
10,908
1978
24,200
10,993
1979
61,700
24,900
iURCE: Resource Development CamUssion
In the past few years, a num-
ber of shrimp trawlers have '
moved from Brunswick County to
other locations. Some Shell-
fish areas have been closed
because of pollution. Recog-
nizing these problems, State
and Federal governments are
developing a Shellfish Action
Plan to preserve and protect
existing breeding and harvest
areas, identify and regulate
pollution sources, and improve
closed shellfish areas by inlet
modification and oyster bed
reseeding.
20

c. Tourism
Tourism is a base industry in Brunswick County.
The N.C. Research Triangle Institute provides an estimate of tourist
expenditures by County, based on gross collections of sales tax for hotels
motels, food, gas, etc. The Institute calculates there has been an in-
crease in such revenue from $2,406,000 from 1969 to $16,740,000 for 1979,
a 700% increase.
There has been speculation that a large amount of the revenue from.
tourist rentals is not included in these figures, as it is known the ma-
jority of tourist acccumodations are small residential structures of one -
family up to six -family units cn average, in ownerships of non -county
residents, and that often such rentals are arranged in other courtias or
other states. One study speculated the loss of sales tax fram.succh cas-
ual rental system amounted to over $6,000,000 a year in 1979.
There is one apparent major factor that can adversely affect the
future of tourism in Brunswick County — gasoline. In 1973, the gaso-
line problems reduced visitation and would probably do so in the future
should shortages or higher prices -became a reality.
d . Transportation •
There are two major transportation sites in Brunswick County,
International Paper's Barge Loading Facility anal the.. Sunny Point Mili-
tary Terminal. Although transportation facilities are not normally
classified as a base industry, the nature of these two facilities are
such that they qualify as a base employer.
The 335 employees listed are full time and include the military
personnel at Sunny Point, but not the Longshoremen as the number varies
fram day to day. Longshoremen are included under "Canmunications, Trans-
portation, Utilities" in the Secondary Economic Activities.. Both are
heavy industries.
e . Secondary Econamic'Activities
The Secondary Economic Activities- are the providers of goods and
services created mainly by the demand of the primary activities. One
basic measure of the growth is the reported retail sales which applies
primarily to two of the Secondary activities, trade and services.
BRUNSWICK COUNTY TOTAL RETAIL SALES
YEAR
TOTAL SALES
1973-1974
$68,938,459
1974-1975
74,579,219
1975-1976
78,856,227
1977-1978
88,180,572
1978-1979
98,993,876
21

Jr
GROSS RETAIL SALES BREAKDOWNS
1973-74
1974-75
1975-76
1976-77
1977-78
1% Retail Sales $1,612,416
$1,863,784
$1,584,514
$1,198,203
$1,640,993
2% Auto, Planes -Boats 5,221,637
3,583,365
3,884,657
4,603,937
5,378,151
.Apparel 198,566
343,039
406,240
403,283
481,590
Automotive 11,457,974
12,479,486
13,438,593
13,497,128
13,094,461
Food 20,956,253
23,506,261
25,176,531
24,940,560
26,603,341
Furniture 1,164,657
962,655
1,223,621
1,402,105
1,641,674
General Merchandise 9,735,719
10,405.119
14,734,017.
15,480,453
17,297,721
Building Material 7,279,171
5,305,029
5,252,375
6,200.067
8,648,666
Unclassified Group 11,312,066
16,130,481
13,155,679
12,597,292
-13,393,975
TOTALS $68,938,459
$74,579,219
$78,856,227
$80,323,028
r$88,180,572
CATEGORY
1978-79 PERCENT INCREASE 75-7
1% Retail Sales
$2,039,235
28.7%
2% Auto, Planes &
Boats
5,285,406
36.1%
Apparel
641,949
58.1%
Autamotive
14,937,515
11.1%
Food
29,539,116
39.4$
Furniture
1,939,342
57.7%
General Merchandise
20,539,116
39.4%.
Building Material
8,663,385
64.9%
Unclassified Grove
15,118,427
15,3%
TOTALS
$ 98,993,876
25.5%
The greatest growth in total retail sales has occurred since 1978.
The annual increase fran 1978 to 1979 was as large as the three.year per-
iod from 1973 to 1976.
Since 1973, food has consistently been the major contributor to
total retail sales, comprising almost a consistent third of the total.
General Merchandise has risen from a third - ranked contributor to a
second - ranked one in 1979. Likewise, autarotive has fallen from a
second - ranked contributor to a third.
Construction is classified as a Secondary Eeonemic Activity because
it is variable in nature responding to demand for buildings, *highways,
utilities or other.
w
22

SECONDARY ECONOMIC ACTIVITY - 1974
Economic (2) Percent of Percent
Activity Employment (1) Contribution Secondary of total
Construction
3,880
$55,779.360
84.8
38.6
Cammnications,
Transportation,
Utilities
310
2,295,476
3.5
1.6
Trade
1,150
4,437,784
6.7
3.1
Finance,
Insurance,
Real Estate
250
1,757,236
2.7
1.2
Service
260
1,533,168
2.3
1.1
Totals
5,450
68,803,024
100.0
45.6
(1) EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION TOTALS FOR SECOND QUARTER 1974
EXPANDED TO FULL YEAR CONSTRUCTION TOTALS ADJUSTED BASE ON
IMRMATION PROVIDED BY THE MAJOR CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES.
A
(2) EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION PAYROLLS FOR SECOND YEAR
QUARTER, 1974, EXPANDED TO FULL YEAR.
The category of Communications, Transportation and Utilities includes
.the electric, telephone and trucking cagmnies, plus Longshoremen. In the .
second quarter of 1974, 310 persons were employed in these occupations at
an annual payroll rate of $3 million dollars. Two transportation terminals,
'Sunny Point and the International Paper Canpany Barge Loading Facility,
were included in the primary Economic Activities instead of this section.
Trade includes all persons engaged in the sales of merchandise and
is the fourth largest occupation of County residents. An undetermined
number of these jobs are directly related to the tourist industry.
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate include those employed in Real
Estate, Insurance, Banks and Building and Loan Associations. Sane of
these jobs are also related directly to the Tourist Industry..
23

a
Industry and Class of Brunswick County Workers-1970
Census
Tracts
Industry
County
201
202
203
204
205
206
Construction
1,147
158
103
128
362
288
108
Manufacturing
2,031
914
240
101
209
203
364
Transportation
596
77
100
152
100
114
53
Communications,
Utilities
161
10
27
27
18
70
9
Wholesale Trade
197
53
13
30
13
59
29
Retail Trade
1,187
219
97
193
122
397
159
Finance, Insurance,
Real Estate
227
23
29
81
14
53
27
Business and
Repair Services
140
69
4
31
5
31
0
Personal Services
337
47
29
83
37
120
21
Health Services
224
24
15
113
16
27
29
Educational Srvcs_
476
58
80
69
62
96.
Ill
Other Professional
154
12
45
75
16
6
0
Public Administrtn..
378
62
28
149
42-
43
54
Other Industries
573
50
52
80
71
174
146
Totals
7,828 11,776
862
1,312
1,087
1,681
1,110
Class
5,425
1,561
654
743
642
1,129
696
Private wage/salary
Government
1,307
150
146
365
191
221
234
Self Employed
972
60
62
185
219
297
149
Unpaid Family
Workers
124
5
0
19
35
34
31
Totals
7,828
1,776
862
1,312
1,087
1,681
1,110
Source: The 1975 Land Use Plan cited source as the 1970 U.S. Census.
Another change that is taking place in the labor fcroe is the rapidly inmeasang
numbers of employed womm.
In 1950, only 17.6% of the labor force was female. Fz= 1950--1960, the percen-
tage increase was 6.2% to 23.8%. The increase from 1960 to 1970 was 8.9%, bring-
ing the female portion of the labor fcroe up to 32.7% in 1970. In all probability
this.increase is primarily due to the availability of producticn type jobs in the
textile chemical industries.
25

The second source of a plvymeit data for Bnmswick County is the Average
Annual Work Force Estimates of the Employment Sect xity Commission. Prior to 1970,
these reports were based totally on the jobs Jai Brunswick County regardless of where
the emplayee resided. After 1970, the sections on continual labor force, unemployment
rate, a playm nt total, unemployment rate, agricultural enployment, non agricultural
wage and salary and all other non-agricultural employment relates to Co my residents
only, no matter where employed, while the sections on employment by type relates to
jobs available in the County no matter where the a playee resides.
26

OCICUPATICN CF BRUNSWICK COUNTY W072MP.S - 1970
_ I 2.
Professional.,
Technical and
Kindred
589
67
Managers,
Aclni.nistrators
657
59
Sakes Workers
373
71
Clerical and
Kindred
736
191
Craftsmen, Form
and Kindred
1,593
429
Cperatives, except
Transport
1,460
533
Transport CperativeE
382
69
Laborers, except
Fann
744
135
Fawn Workers
370
28
Service Workers
775
178
Private Household
Workers
149
16
. I TOTAL
7,828
1,776
Oensus Tracts
2.02 2.03 2.0
90
132
48
110
142.
56
180
62
210
90
28
68
56
95
55
69
167
101
133
75
166
220
291
290
197
177
124
207
232
187
46
50
68
100
49
102
132
125
145
1.05
46
13
52
121
110
63
172
73
198.-
91
19
54
4
47
9
862
1,312
1,087
1,681
1,110 k
Source: The 1975 Land Use Plan cited the U.S. Census as source.
The leading occupations were manufacturing at. first, retail trade second, and
anstruction, third. Oensus tracts with the highest percentages of manufac-
turing employment were the ales closest to Wilmington.
Over 69% of the a played Oxmty residents in 1979 were in the private wage and
salary class, 16.7% were unpaid family workers. In all Census Tracts, private
wage and salary ranked first. Govenment was second in four census tracts and
self-eirployed was second in two.
The 1980 Census is expected to show significant changes-

L7
Activities of the financial institutions, banks, and savings and loan
associations have increased significantly since 1966. The number of facili-
ties have also increased significantly. In 1966, there was one bank with
two banking offices and me savings and loan assocaiatim with three offices.
In 1974, there were three banks with ten offices and me savings and loan
association with one office cpened in early 1975.
Service is another element that is partially dependent upon the tourist
industry and includes those employees who perform services such as food ser-
vice and auto service. The employment total of 260 represents the average for
the seocnd quarter of 1974. In prior years, the third quarter totals ranged
from 10 to 40 employees higher than the seccnd quarter, for comparison, 20
additional employees in the third quarter would 'increase the ' annual payroll by
nearly $30,000.
Another base element of the economy that is emerging as a significant fac-
tcr is the "retiree" industry. It is cbivicus that a growing number of persons
are retiring to Brunswick County, as full-time year -around permanent residents.
Their gross transfer payments fran various sources such as O.A.S.I. , other retixe
ment systems, and investments are not known, but with the 1980 Census, it should
be possible to chart this feature of the eamciny, its significance, and impact.
f . ?kends
Per Capita Persmal Income
As Brunswick Cauity has shifted fran an agricultural/canmercial fishing
ec=w to a nmore diversified economic base, the well-being of the CountyyIs resi-
dents has improved. There are many indicators of this other than the Census.
reports. Cne such indicator is Per Capita Personal Income.
In 1973 the Per Chita Personal Income was only $2,911. By 1978, it had
risen to $5,071. Industrial develgxment has contributed much to this increase,
as has tourism and retirement living.
PER C APIM PERSCNAL INCCM
1973-1978
Year
Per Capita
Personal Income
Percentage
Increase
1973
$2,911
1974
3,147
8.1
1975
3,486
10.8
1976
3,935
12.9
1977
4,435
12.7
1978
5,071
14.3
23a

4
IAVERAGE ANNUAL WORK FORCE ESTIMATES 1970-1975
1970
1971
1972
1973
1974*
1975*
County Residents (1)
Civilian Labor Force
8,580
8,480
10,390
10,680
10,610
11,060
Unemployment Total
430
560
560
480
760
1,450
Rate of Unemployment
5.0
6.6
5.4
4.5
7.2
13.1
Employment Total
8,160
7,920
9,830
10,200
9,850
9,610
Agricultural Employment
560
510
530
530
420
..
Non -Agriculture Wage
6,490
6,320
7,990
8,340
8,030
---
and Salary Employment
All other Non Agriculture
1,110
1,090
1,310
1,330
1,400
---
Employment (2 )
Jobs In County (3)
Manufacturing
1,690
1,480
2,560
3,060
3,290
---
Food
80
80
90
120
120
---
Lumber and Wood
100
90
80
60
70
---
Other Manufacturing (4)
1,510
1,310
2,390
2,880
3,100
---
Non Manufacturing ( 5 )
Construction (5)
2,300
3,050
3,750
3,500
3,900
---
Transportaion.and Communi-
1,010
790
660
310
340
---
cations and Public Utilities
Trade
730
750
940
1,020
1,000
---
Finance, Insurance, and Real
110
130
200
230
240
---
Estate
Service
190
240.
230
250
250
---
Government
1,160
1,360
1,280
1,280
1,350
---
Other Non Manufacturing (6)
20
40
90
120
110
---
Total Jobs
7,770
8,350
10,240
10,300
11,010
---
*1974 - January through June only, 1975 - January through March only, Preli-
minary Estimates
l) All Data Based on Brunswick County Residents Wherever Employed
(2) Includes Non Agricultural Self Employed Workers, Unpaid Family Workers
and Domestic Workers in Private Households
(3) Reported Employment of Jobs in Brunswick County
(4) Includes textiles; Apparel; Furniture, Printing; Chemicals; Stone,
Clay and Glass; Metals; Non Electric Machinery and Transportation..
Equipment
(5) Totals for Non Manufacturing and Construction Changes to Reflect
Employment Reported by Major Construction Companies to County Plan-
ning Department Opposed to Estimates by Employment Security Commission
(6) Includes Agricultural Services, Fisheries and Mining.

h. The Ad Valorem Tax Base and Revenues
Introduction
Local government depends upon taxation as a primary. source of reve-
nue for operations, services and facilities. For local governments,
counties and towns, the major portion of their revenue canes from taxes
levied upon real property, personal property and public utilities. The
three components are known as the Ad Valorem Tax Base.
other than this tax base, Brunswick County receives revenue from
sources such as state and federal grants, sales tax, court fines, and
interest on County funds deposited in financial institutions.
All considerations for current and future provisions for services
and facilities must be based on anticipated revenue, especially frari the
Ad Valorem tax base, since this is the primary source of revenue and the
only source that can be considered permanent. Therefore, in planning
for services and facilities to meet needs and demands of the population,
the tax base must be analyzed to determine its growth rate and stability.
This section includes a presentation of the tax base and revenue
sources available to the County, and a comparison of revenues to expendi-
tures.
The Tax Base
The total tax base in Brunswick County has grown at a rapid rate
since 1962. The increase has been the result of a general increase in
land values and new construction, especially industry.
The 1975 tax base was $1.28 billion and had increased to $1.68
billion by 1979. The 1985 projected tax base, based upon proposed indus-
trial development, would exceed $2 billion dollars.
BRUNSWTCK COUNTY TAX BASE
Year
Base
1962-63
$ 66,754,740.00
1967-68
104,909,600:00
1973-74
556,415,240.00
1975
1,276,138,247.00
1976
1,387,548,383,00
1977
1,455,511,020.00
1978
1,653,174,845.00
1979
1,683,444,190.00
Typically, real property constitutes the major portion of the tax
base and in Brunswick County, it provided 73.3 percent in both 1965 and
1970. The percentage dropped to 23.6 percent in 1974 and is estimated to

f
be 43:6 percent in 1975. The probable reason for the low percentage in
1974 was that it had been eight years since a County -wide appraisal of
real property , while personal property and utilities are generally on an
annual appraisal basis.
. The value of utilities were estimated to be 38 percent of the total
tax base in 1975.
By these indicators, the tax base of Brunswick County is very strong
with 81 percent being in real property and utilities and 9 percent in the
less stable personal property.
The growth in the tax base also indicates the population that has
occurred. Growth in population creates a greater demand for public ser-
vices and facilities.
The tax base provides the basic means by which the County can pro-
vide services and facilities. While the State and Federal Goverrm►ents-
provide limited grants to assist local governments, there is never any
assurance that they will continue at the same level, or that they will
even be continued. .Indeed, in recent years and projected, domestic re-
sources -are drying up.
The amount of general obligation bonds a county can issue is also
dependent on the, tax base with the legal limit being eight percent of
the total tax base. In reality, the bond market sets the limits which
according to the Local Government Commission is about four percent.
The tax .rate is established annually by the County Commission to
raise the funds necessary to fund expenditures for the year.
As the tax base increases, it does not necessarily mean that the
tax rate decreases. An increase in tax base normally results in an in-
crease in demand for services and facilities. In 1968,,the tax base was
$104.9 million and the effective tax rate was 95 cents. By 1974, the
tax rate had declined to .70 cents on a base of 556.4 million. By 1979,
the tax rate had declined to .47 cents on a base of 1.68 billion. Fran
1968 to 1979, the tax base increased 1505 percent, while the total tax
increase increased only 781 percent. For the period covered, the effec-
tive tax rate decreased.
29

s
APPRAISED VALUE, AD VALOREM, TAX RATE
TAX LEVY, COLLECTIONS AND COLLECTION RATE
(BASED ON 100% VALUATION FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES)
1968-1972-1974-1979
TAX CATEGORY 1968 1972 1974 1979
Appraised value
$104,909,600
$171,648,700
$556,415,240 $1,683,444,190
Effective Tax Rate
.80
.95
.70 .47
Total Levy and
Charges
$872,633.01
1,654,615.63
4,007,6000.06 8,406,232.35
Total Collections
.and credits
872,633.01*
1,606,499.13
3,952,201.26 7,686,152.08
Collection Rate
100.0%
91.1%
98.6% 95.23%
"111t; UUC.'1, y7 V7, /V1.JV LVL 7".Lt: VL 1aILU LVL L4V11 yay1LF=Lt- VL 1CL&=Z
SOURCE: Brunswick County Audits
Revenues
Total Revenues
Other.than Ad Valorem taxes, the County received revenue from many
sources. In all, there are eight sources of revenue 1
Ad Valorem Tax = Tax on real and personal property
Intangibles Tax-- Tax on intangible property collected by
the state and returned to counties under
a distribution plan.
State and Federal Aid= Grants made to the County by the State
and Federal Governments.
Interest= Interest earned on County funds de_ posited
in financial institutions.
Fees = Fees received from various sources,
primarily Register of Deeds, Superior
Court and Jail.
Fines= Fines received through the court system.
Sales Tax-- The 1% County Sales tax.
Miscellaneous= Many small revenue sources such as can-
didate filing fees, sale of used equip-
ment, vending machine profits and ser-
vices to towns and individuals.
The tax base of Brunswick County grew rapidly until 1978. In 1978 the
major industrial and utility plants under construction were completed and
taxable construction equipment'was removed. Therefore, since 1978, the tax
base has leveled out and remained stable with 81 percent being Lin real property
and utilities.
30

40
other revenue sources currently available to the County have not
grown as fast as the tax base since 1968 and have provided an increas-
ingly smaller percentage of the total revenue. There is reason to be-
lieve that this trend will continue. With this assumption, the tax base
assumes even greater importance.
Ad Valorem taxes provided 49 percent of the revenue in 1968 and 61
percent in 1974. The revenue received from State and Federal aid de-
clined fran 42 percent in 1968 to 21 percent in 1974. .
The one percent tax sales tax has became increasingly important
since its inception in 1970, providing four percent of the revenue in
1972 and eight percent in 1974. The other five revenue sources typically
provide less than two percent of total revenue.
The tax base (Ad Valorem) is the most imp:)rtant source of revenue
not only because it is the primary revenue producer, but also because it
is the only source that the County can control. All of the other sources
are subject to influences beyond the control of the County.
'�
N.
31

COUNTY -REVENUE
SOURCES, TOTAL EXPENDITURES
AND STATE EXPENDITURES
FOR SCHOOLS, 1968-1972-1974
Ad Valorem Taxes
$ 906,528.27
49.36%
$1,677,118.50
48.67%
$3,883,690.66
61.26%
Intangibles Tax
16,614.11
.90%
40,708.34
1.18%
70,659.06
1.12%
States Federal Aid
777,546.98
42.35%
Interest
5,083.42
.28%
147,073. 23
6. 27%
227,
866.66
3.59%
Fees
48,057.32
2. 62%
79,411. 49
2. 30%
94,
714.23
1.49%
Fines
40,880.29
2. 23%
94,663..15
2. 75%
93,
364.56
1.47%
Sales Tax
1,200.29
. 06%
153,645..23
4. 46%
532,.964.61
8.41%
Miscellaneous*
40,324.59
2. 20%
223,954. 46
4
5. 50%
84,
726.20
1.34%
TOTAL REVENUE
$1,836, 135.27
100.00%
$3,446,084. 23
100.00%
$6,339,
493.52
100.00%
Expenditures
$1,642, 409.53
$2,585,025. 58
$4,559,
050.43
STATE EXPENDITURES
$1,536, 834.97
$2,540,392. 24
$3,995,
806.93
FOR COUNTY SCHOOLS
*Miscellaneous includes incc ne fran sales of used equignent, services to oanmmities and individuals,
vend machines, candidate filing fees and other sources.
SOURCE: Brunswick County Audits.
w

at
B. LAND USE SURVEY AND ANALYSIS
1. EXISTING LAND USE
a. Introduction
A land use survey of 1975 was updated in spring, 1980. The survey
was updated using recent permit information.
This 1980 land use "survey" provides: (1) A dwelling unit count.
(2) Acres for land uses. (3) Use of land that's shown (4) The land use
survey serves as the basis for an in-depth land use analysis. It reveals,
for example, the amount of unused but usable land available within the
County. This is an important consideration in shaping policies in mat-
ters of industrial, commercial, ercial, and residential development, subdivision
control, of facilities provision and needs assessment and in the future,.
the, establishment of zoning districts. It also shows land use changes
since 1975. The following analysis will deal primarily with the use of
the land and the relationships of the various types of land uses.
During exposure of this Plan document in meetings of the Planning
Board, county Commission, and workshops throughout the County in October,
1980, knowledgeable persons pointed out flaws in this existing land use
map. There are numbers of developed/developing residential subdivisions,
trailer parks, golf courses and retail businesses and services that are
not shown. The majority fall in the pattern of emerging low -density
urban areas on the mainland near the Intracoastal Waterway and Lockwood
Folly and Shallotte Rivers, and near the Cape Fear River north of the U.S.
17-74-76 bridge link to Wilmington.
2. GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF EXISTING LAND USE CONDITIONS
a. LAND USE COMPATIBILITY PROBLEMS
Land use compatibility problems in Brunswick County are generally
those where there is friction between characteristics of certain uses
and characteristics of nearby uses, rather than between land uses them-
selves. Among examples of such friction is when a residential develop -
meet intrudes into an agricultural area. Then, the new hcme.owners com-
plain about the tractor noise and dust, fertilizer applications, etc., .
fran the farm operation.
33

w
w
cv
EXISTING LAND USE - 1980
LEGEND:
Urban and Rural
Community
Heavy Industry
Agriculture
Forest and
Paper Industries
C� Undeveloped
North
i '-

s
Another friction even within "pure" residential areas is when some-
one builds up to a property line, or cuts down unusually large hardwood
trees, or converts to apartments, etc.
Larger land use activities require larger landscaped setback areas
on their own property to be in scale with smaller types of land uses.
whether it be a school, hospital, park or recreation area, or a factory,
a land use of consequence near a farm or near a residential area has to
avoid the creation of incanpatible features in the way it is developed.
Development adjacent to a cultural resource of more than local signifi-
cance requires special consideration of that resource, which resources as
example could be an archaeological site or an architecturally historic
site or structure. In such instances, features such as extra setback of
structures, protection to larger hardwood trees, and provisions of vege-
tative screens are called for.
No larger uses should be permitted on minor residential roads, not
even public 'facilities, if they are traffic generators. This applies to
doctor's offices as well as schools or factories.
The major area where residential, cconercial and some industrial
uses have developed under mixed conditions is in the Leland-Belville
Cammmity. Lesser areas of such mixed use are near Shallotte and be-.
fi
tween Southport and Oak Island.
Mobile hone development has occurred at high density in the County..
This development has occurred without regulation, and is dispersed with-
in many conventional residential areas. These conditions occur.pr .ly
•► in the Leland-Belville area, Southport -Oak Island area, Sunset Harbor
area, Varnum Town -Shell Point area west of Holes Beach, Shallotte Point
area, area north of Ocean Isle Beach, and the Shady Forest -Calabash area.
Mobile homes account for 25% of all residential land use in the County,
and provide the only financially accessible means of housing for a grow-
ing number of citizens. However, such development has detrimental
effects when placed in areas other than mobile hoe courts or true farms.
Another land use compatibility problem is the existence of junk
yards, storage yards, and other open air unsightly areas. There are no
regulations requiring the buffering or screening of junk. yards other
than those on Federally assisted highways and these are not vigorously
enforced.
Industrial development has occurred in such manner that its major
incompatibility is traffic, lack of adequate open space, landscaping and.
setbacks, and potential hazard situations, such as with Carolina Power
and Light Company's nuclear generating facility near Southport. Some
fish -related industries have created frictions in smells and in possi-
ble pollution of waters and marshlands.
Residential development exists and continues to build adjacent to
` the Brunswick County Airport. This has already resulted in complaints
from residents and could became a land use problem in the near future
unless regulated.
34

b. Major Problems Resulting from Unplanned Development
Since 1970, Brunswick County has undergone a large amount of develop-
ment with a large increase in dwelling units and a large increase in
population. Outside of certain municipalities, this growth has occurred
without regulation. Without planning and provision of facilities and
services, numerous problems have resulted.
Strip commercial development has occurred in four areas. In the
Leland-Belville area, on Oak Island, Bolivia on U.S. 17 and N.C. 130,
and in Shallotte on U.S. 17, strip commercial development has occurred.
In these areas in particular the cavexcial development has occurred
without adequate setbacks, without properly designed egress and ingress,
and without adequate off-street parking.
It is .realized that certain types of commercial development can sus-
tain themselves only adjacent to major traffic aeries; however, when
development occurs adjacent to major roads, it must be designed so as to
not inhibit the flow of traffic and cause conjestion and hazardous situ-
ations on the roads.
In addition to the above areas, uncontrolled strip commercial deve-
lopment is beginning to appear in the Calabash area on S.R. 1163, Holden
Beach Causeway on N.C. 130, on N.C. 133 from N.C. 211 to Oak Island.
Unless properly designed and regulated , such development could cause
traffic problems and hazardous conditions in these areas.
Another major problem that has resulted from unplanned development
is the existence of a large number of substandard roads that are not
maintained. There are 938 miles of publicly maintained roads in Bruns-
wick County. In.addition, it is estimated that there are over 800 Sub-
division roads that are not permanently maintained and -do not meet stan-
dards for acceptance for maintenance by. a -public agency. Over 300 miles of
unpaved roads are maintained by governmental,agencies. In addition to sub-
standard construction and design, road patterns have been laid out with little
ccmideratim for continuity and eocrdi.natian with adjacent property. - No con
sideratian has been given to future traffic volumes and capacity capability
for subdiva.sion roads thay may become thoroughfares. Thoroughfare planning
and goad coordination is needed.
Small and inadequate lot sizes have occurred in developing areasof
the County. Numerous large subdivisions have been platted with 5000 to
6000 square foot lot sizes with no provision for water or sewer service.
Approximately 65% of all dwelling units are located outside municipal
boundaries. Approximately 70% of these units are without public water
supply and about 96% of all dwelling units in Brunswick are without
sewerage disposal other than septic tanks. Serious problems will deve-
lop in the future unless adequate services are provided to these areas
that have already developed, and unless adequate lot sizes are required
in newly developing areas.
35

The Road Network
Also included within this Spring, 1980, survey and resultant calcu-
lation was the road network.
Roads are the backbone of the physical structure of the entire County,
to support social and economic activity. This road network is inadequate
to meet today's needs, much less those of the future.
Although U.S. 74, the existing major highway connector of the Port
of North Carolina to the Piedmont, has been "four-laned" through Bruns-
wick County, much of this pavement is old and in disrepair, thus discour-
aging use. Further, although it has been a set goal, often with time-
table, of the State of North Carolina to use U.S. 74, U.S. 16 and U.S. 321
as a link from the Port to Boone, (i.e., the southeastern to the north-
eastern ends of the state) and to make this route at least of expressway
character, and freeway character whenever possible, many stretches are in-
complete or do not even show in the current seven-year highway improve-
ment program of the state.
State studies have shown that one-third of the product (and by-pro-
duct) of manufactures in North Carolina is generated in the eight -county
region of which Charlotte is the center. It is insufficient to place all
orientation of the Port on a future better road connection to Raleigh,
and this U.S. 74 direct route access from the heart of the Piedmont and
its manufactures-to'the Port must once again receive priority.
For basic east to west connection, Brunswick County is served by U.S.
17. This facility is gradually being improved so that portions of it.
are now and others will be of freeway/expressway character. other por-
tions, by present state planning, apparently are intended to remain as
narrow, two-lane features. During the course of public exposure of this
Plan, suggestions.were made that U.S. 17 be reconsidered and be treated
as an industrial corridor through the County. Indeed, the suggestions.
went so far as to propose that industry not orient to U.S. 74, Wilming-
ton, the Port, and the Cape Fear River, but instead be guided. if to be
permitted at all into the extreme opposite ends of the County, at Cala-
bash and in the agricultural areas generally known as Ash and Waccamaw.
As this proposal Was made in at least three different workshops
over this Plan, a response is indicated.
As this report has shown, the basic industries of Brunswick'County,
as well as those which are believed to be best suited to the location and
character of the County, fall into the agriculture forestry category, the
fishing -boating -tourist category, and the Port -energy category. The
agriculture -forestry category is encouraged to develop related internal*
industry,. such as food storage and processing. These activities would
be at most relatively minor operations within such areas, and U.S. 17
would not normally be the location for such operations as it is "off -Cen-
ter" for the involved lands. N.C. routes 130, 904 and 211 are the more
logical roads for such activities, but such activities could well be ser-
ved by.even lesser roads, more in the heart of the agricultural -forestry
areas.
40

Fishing -boating -tourism is associated with Ole islands, the marshes,
the Intercoastal Waterway, and the Shallotte and Lockwood Folly River
areas. Industry for these features has been provided within those lands
along or in near proximity to these waters. It is possible that some por-
tion of such industry could locate in relation to U.S. 17 in the Shal
lotte River area and in the Calabash area where U.S. 17 enters South Car-
olina.
However, the major concentrations of industry have built in relation
to the Cape Fear River area, and are expected and encouraged to continue
to do so, to make use of the deep waterport, the rail, highway, and
S.M.S.A. industry -associated infrastructure. Urban residential develop-
ment of certain areas along the Cape Fear River has been evident, and
is also expected to continue, and is encouraged.
Other portions of the backbone of the road network are N.C. 211 and
N.C. 130. Together with U.S. 17, N.C. 211 divides the County into quad-
rants. It is recognized in the Cape Fear Council of Government's Plan
as being of inter -regional significance.. Presently, that portion from
U.S. 17 westerly through Columbus County to U.S. 74 is in poor condition,
and has many sharp curves. The facility needs -straightening where possi-
ble for safety, and four laning.
N.C. 130 has become the Piedmont route to the Brunswick County bea-
ches. Although traffic is not yet that intensive, within the time span
of this Plan, in twenty years the need for four-laning will emerge.
There are several special features and concerns with the road net-
work.
The islands do not have adequate mainland access in some cases..
This may be simply provided by a replacement bridge structure, as at
Holden Beach or Sunset Beach. In the case of Oak Island, a second
relief access is a necessity.
Earlier plans calling for the bridging of the river inlets and di- .
rect linkage of the islands are now rejected. It is not desirable to
create a "Myrtle Beach" out of the Brunswick Islands, either in traffic
along their main roads, or in character of development. Rather, what is
needed is safe and efficient mainland access.
Another need is better means of getting out of the Southport -Oak -
Island area than is now possible, in the event of any incident at C.P.&L's
nearby nuclear generating facility. As it is now, all traffic would have
to move closer to this electric factory than is reasonable. For instance,
Southport's populace would have to go by it on either N.C. 211 or N.C. 87,
and Oak Island has for its entire populace only access via N.C. 133-to
N.C. 211. A relief road from near downtown Southport, running as close
as possible to the Intercoastal Waterway, and connecting at the County
Airport with N.C. 133, and then continuing to the established road net-
work near Lockwood Folly River is considered an absolute safety require-
ment. A second bridge from Oak Island in its westerly scotion should
then connect to this road.
41

(but not malls) and other support services have Yx�en developed at stra-
tegic locations over the past five years, and :,a:re are being planned.
Indeed, it can be seen that sufficient ccmTiercial development has taken
place in the Leland area so as to attract residents of milmington-
New Hanover County and Columbus County to do their shopping.
As Brunswick County urbanizes, whether it be the residential,
industrial, transportation or public service (military, energy -related,
power, etc.), necessary retail trades and services can be expected to
keep abreast of such urbanization. The same is true of tourist -related
urban areas of the County.
d. Industrial Land Use
In 1975, the Industrial Land Use element accounted for 3,601 acres.
In 1980, the Industrial Land Use element grew to account for 5,143 acres.
The major portion of the acreage is attributed to Pfizer Chemical Co.
and the Dupont Plant. This land use category has expanded tremendously
during the past 10 years and can be expected to continue in this trend.
Future industrial development can be expected to occur primarily along
the Cape Fear River area of the County where port, water, rail, & high-
way facilities are available.
There are several major land uses that were not c1hown as industrial
in this survey, but show all of the characteristics and intensities and
impacts associated with "industry". These include such features as the
federal military installation known as Sunny Prinz, which is a rail -port -
storage -transfer center of significance for the entire eastern half of the
United States and which because of the nature of many .of the
materials, products and waste elements brought in, stored, and shipped
out from it is considered in the category of industry that transports,
stores and disposes of hazardous substances.
Also not shown as "industry" is the Carolina Power and Light Can
pany's nuclear electric generating plant at Southport, which has all of
the characteristics of a heavy industry and because of the nature of its
operation, storage, etc., is considered to have impacts over several coun-
ties, not only in traffic generated but also as to potential incidents
and need for major alterations to the transportation network so that the
thousands of persons into whose residential area.this factory was super-
imposed would have some change of surviving any such incident.
e. Transportation, Communication, and Utilities Land Use
In 1975, the Transportation, Communication, and Utilities Land'Use
element accounted for 3,600 acres. By 1980, this element had grown to
9,400 acres. These percentages are deceiving, however, because the
Spring, 1980 survey reclassified CP&L. In 1975, CP&L was shown as Indus-
try. It was reclassified in Spring, 1980, in the Transportation, Ccmmi-
cation, and Utilities element. The CP&L site is 3,600 acres.
39

3. EXISTING LAND USE CATEGORIES
a. General Development Trends
Brunswick County has 558,720 acres. Fifty-two percent is in use.
15,635 acres is utilized for Industrial, Commercial, and Residential uses.
Development of urban type uses has been concentrated along the Cape Fear .
River, the islands, and the mainland, close to the Intercoastal Waterway
and close to the Lockwood Folly and Shallotte Rivers. This development
has occurred at densities that demand urban services. However, such ser-
vices are only available within Southport and the Carolina Shores Subdi-
vision (Private Service Systems).west of Calabash. Since 1975, water
facilities have became available to Oak Island, Holden Beach, Ocean Isle
Beach, and Sunset Beach. By 1990 the Calabash to Ocean Isle area, and
the Southport to Columbus County line area along the Cape Fear River will
have water facilities. By 1990, the municipalities of Shallotte, Holden
Beach, Ocean Isle Beach,. Long Beach, Yaupon Beach and Caswell Beach will
have sewerage facilities. These facilities will help meet the County's
future development needs.
b. Residential Land Use
In 1975, Residential Land Use was 8,677 or three percent of deve-
loped acreage. In 1980, Residential Land Use had risen to 9,654.0 acres.
Conventional single family dwellings account for approximately 68 per-
cent of the total residential acreage. Mobile home development accounts
for 26% of all residential acreage. Multi -family and transient lodgings
are relatively insignificant and account for less than two percent of all
residential acreage. It must be noted that during the course of public
exposure of these Spring, 1980 land use survey results, not only the
general public, but also the Planning Board and County Commission pointed
out a series of errors of amission and that there is indeed significant.
additional developed urban land in the County, generally of typical low -
density character, either in detached single-family houses, mobile homes,.
golf courses, etc. The best guess is that approximately 3,000 residen-
tially developed.acres in urban character were missed in this survey and
its end product calculations.
c. Commercial Land Use
In 1975, the commercial land use element accounted for 537.0 acres
or two -tenths of one percent of developed acreage. In 1980, the C mmr-
cial Land Use element rose to 838.0 acres or three -tenths of one percent
of developed acreage. Again, this calculation of Spring, 1980, has
been challenged and additional commercial lands including one fairly
large shopping center have been pointed out.
Brunswick County is bordered on one side by Wilmington and on
another side by Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Those two areas have his-
torically depended on attracting the trade of Brunswick County, with the
exception of the Shallotte area midway in the County between those two
attractions, where a considerable commercial complex exists. This trade .
pattern is obviously changing as Brunswick County urbanizes along the
Cape Fear River and.along lands associated with the Intercoastal Water-
way and the Atlantic Ocean. As a result, traditional shopping centers
38

An area that had been of ocmcern and ecmtraver:y was Bald Head
Island. The Island has undergone some development; construction activities
.have only been in the dune land area of the isiaad and the marshlands for
the most part have been undisturbed. The greater part of this island group
is undeveloped and advocated as a preserve.
An erosion problem exists along the Intracoastal Waterway just east
of the Sunset Harbor area across from Oak Island. The waterway channel
was artifically cut through natural topography 30 feet above the water
line. No development has occurred in the unincorporated areas yet, but
numerous structures on the beach are in danger. This area referred to
as the "Yellow Banks" is a significant hazard area and development
should be carefully guided in the vicinity. The Intracoastal
Waterway with its marine traffic poses a problem with erosion in many
areas of the County.
Also, there has been development within the coastal and riverine
flood areas. For the most part such development has occurred with flood
proofing measures incorporated into design in the coastal
towns; however, in the unincorporated areas and inland towns, develop-
ment has occurred in the Coastal Flood area and Riverine Flood area with—
out proper flood prevention measures being incorporated into their design.
e. Existing Platted Lots
Although Brunswick County has less than 30,000 individual dwellings
and businesses, approximately 95% of all platted lots are less than one
acre in size and are concentrated in nine main areas. These areas are
the Southport -Oak Island area, the Boiling Spring Lakes area, the Bolivia
area, the Mill Creek area, the Navassa-Belville area, the Holden Beach
area, the Ocean Isle-Shallotte area, the Sunset Beach -Calabash area, and
and the Longwood. area. Of all the platted lots, approximately 92% are
without sewerage service other than individual septic tanks. Many of
these lots are served by public water service. Others are served by.in=
dividual wells.
i
37

One of the major problems that has resulted from tmplanned development
in Brunswick County is inadequate services or the lack of major services,
especially, water and sewer for the major portion of the growth that has
occurred. Another is the adverse impact of development on lots sl
for septic tanks. The County is now planning a sewer service.
c. Areas Likely to Experience Changes in Predominant Land Use
Lands in close association to the Cape Fear River, and lands forming
a band along the Intracoastal Waterway, the Shallotte and Lockwood Folly
Rivers, and the islands are the only areas undergoing major changes in
land use. In the southeastern portion of the County in the Southport
area, two major industries have located. There will be additional Indus-
trial development in this area in the future.
The northeastern portion has also had a significant amount of indus-
trial and'ca rercial development. Since D.S. 74-76 has been four-laned a
significant amount of carmerci.al development has occurred in this area.
The northeastern area will also undergo additional industrial development.
The Phase II Water System is planned for the northeastern corridor. In
addition, with rail transportation and major ocean shipping channel
available there will be demand for industrial development.. Attempts
should be made to reserve a part of this area for industrial development
since dispersed residential development could prevent consolidation of
sites large enough for major industrial development.
d. Areas of Environmental Concern ( AEC' s )
Two of Brunswick County's primary economic activities are directly
dependent on the preservation of certain characteristics of lands and
privately owned waters in environmentally sensitive settings. These
are the County's Tourist Industry and the Fisheries Industry.
Development has occurred primarily in three categories of.AEC in
Brunswick County. The coastal dune lands have undergone extensive deve-
lopment; however, -the primary dune strand has been preserved and has seen.
very little enroachment. The Yaupon-Caswell Beach area has had extensive
erosion problems. The.Holden Beach area has also had erosion problems.
. To a large extent there has been little direct enroachment into the..
marshlands of the County. Only in the Ocean Isle Beach area has any,
major reclamation of marshlands occurred -and such activity is no longer
occurring there. The marshlands have a ]mown problem of pollution and
the State has had to close certain areas to shellfishing as a result.
Altheugh.numerous studies have been made by universities, state and fed
eral offices, exact causes or proportional share of responsibility as to
cause of this pollution has not been ascertained. Part is attributed to.
the fishing industry itself; part to recreational fishing, boating and
marinas; part to mainland septic tanks; part to agricultural and fores-
try operations; and part to other land development or land use activities,
even to the recent road improvements on U.S. 17. These marshlands are a
strategic resource and it is necessary to find the causes of their being
polluted in order then to take ameliorative measures.
36

N.C. 133 above the Sunny Point installation, to U.S. 17-74-76, is
a narrow, very winding roadway on which are situated the major historic
sites and structures of the County, as well as some of the newer resi-
dential developments. Presently, the statistics of the N.C. Department
of Transportation show that through August, 1980, this stretch of N.C.
133 has had the highest accident rate of any road in Brunswick County.
The road simply has not been able to accommodate the traffic placed on
it by such activities as Sunny Point, C.P.&L, Pfizer, and Oak Island
tourists. With the recent improvements to U.S. 17 fran Wilmington to
where N.C. 87 heads southerly to the Southport -Oak Island area, it is
believed by many -that slowly traffic will orient itself from N.C. 133
to N.C. 87, and relieve this traffic intrusion & traffic hazard situa-
tion on N.C. 133 for this stretch, but such routing adds approximately
ten miles to. get to Wilmington fran the Sunny Point and C.P.Q. sector,
and at this time it is apparent N.C. 133 continues to bear a very heavy
burden of very fast moving, foregin traffic.
As further urbanization occurs in the Cape Fear -related area between
U.S. 17-74-76 and the Southport -Oak Island area, it is evident a relief
roadway will be necessary, and all industrial traffic should be re -orien-
ted to such new road and new installations designed for access only
to such new road, and N.C. 133 should be enhanced ,as low -density residen-
tial development occurs in relation to it,to became a scenic drive.
The Port and Cape Fear River
In 1979, in speaking of the Port of North Carolina at Wilmington,
by statute the General Assembly established the goal of developing to the
s upmost the port possibilities, for more expeditious and efficient hand-
ling of waterborne commerce for the entire state of North Carolina.
The General Assembly further in 1979 set state policy to encourage
provision of an adequate and reliable energy supply for the people of
North Carolina, while protecting the environment.
Studies by the state and the Cape Fear Oouncil of Governments con-.
clude that further development of the Port of North Carolina .on the Cape
Fear River will result in energy saving on a statewide basis, and that
this port -related area will and should grow at a faster rate than over—
all economic development activities,to serve the needs of the people of
North Carolina.
To meet these needs of the people of North Carolina, this port has
only one direction to grow - Brunswick County. Basically land in New
Hanover County associated with the Cape Fear River and the port is con-
sumed. This is the reason a growing number of port -related and energy -
related industries have expressed interest in this area of the County.
It is interesting to note that an energy -producing facility such as
C.P.&L's Southport's nuclear plant is considered a public utility as a
base public service need, whereas at this time such energy -producing
operations or possible further oil refineries in addition to the ones al-
ready located in WiLnington-New Hanover and such energy -related activities
as coal operations are considered strictly private enteprenurial activities
42

and options, yet the socio-econanic structure of the people -of North
Carolina is dependent upon those energy source- equally as much as on elec-
tricity.
The office of Coastal Management, N.C. Dept. of Natural Resources and
Community Development, the administrative arm of the N.C. Coastal Resour-
ces Cc mission, has required that this Land Use Plan address "Oil refinery
impacts, including economic, social, water and air quality, etc." and,.
more specifically, has required that this Plan address a proposal by the
Brunswick Energy Company for construction of an oil refinery in Brunswick
County and in regard to this specific land use proposal by this partic-
ular company, that the "proposed refinery be discussed in terms of pop-
ulation increases and impacts on housing and public services, loss of
alternative industries, impacts to transportation system, hazard risk,ptc.
This directive by the state is contradictory to professional land
use planning and comprehensive plans. Such -Tanning should never be site
specific, nor address a pending proposal, which, by the way, is just one
of various industries that have expressed interest/desire to locate in
Brunswick County.
Accordingly; to satisfy this directive by the state, a paper has
been prepared and is presented as an Appendix in this Plan document, but
is not intended nor to be presumed to be part of the Plan document per se.
This Appendix paper, by the way, is completely prepared from materials
prepared by the state and/or federal government or prepared by others at
the direction of the state and federal government and to the requirements
and standards of those units of government.
f.' Government Land Use
In 1975, Government Land Use accounted for 9,349 acres, or 3.43
percent of the County's total developed acreage. By 1980, this element
had grown to 9,400.0 acres, or 3.25 percent of the total developed acre-
age. The major acreage in this category is the Sunny. Point Army Terminal,
which is actually a heavy industrial operation. In 1975, the Terminal
was not included in this category, but was added for.purposes of ccmpari
son to the 1980 figures. No other major increases are expected in this
land use category, but features such as parks, schools, etc., will con-
tinue to be provided as needed.
g. Recreation Land Use
In 1975, there were 623.61 or 0.23 percent of the County's.total
developed acreage accounted for by Recreation. In 1980, these figures
had risen to 638.6 with the addition of two parks.
The major portion of this category is accounted for by golf courses,
a Girl Scout Camp, and the Fort Caswell Baptist assembly Grounds. With
a large amount of develc9ment occurring, an increase in this element is
to be expected. Recreation and park lands are being encouraged and pro-
vided in the County.
43

h. Agricultural Land Use
In 1975, Agricultural Land Use accounted for 35,341.0 acres, or
12.98 percent of the total developed acreage. In 1980, agriculture was
reported at 37, 087 acres, or 12.81 percent of total acreage. Increase
in agricultural acreage is due to continued reclamation of wetland areas.
The acreage figure was obtained from the Agricultural Stabilization and
Conservation Department.
i. Forest Land Use
In 1975, Forestry Land Use accounted for 210,599.0 acres, or 77.33
percent of the total developed acreage. In 1980, the category accounted
for 222,834.5 acres, or 76.96 percent of the total developed acreage.
This category accounts for 39.88 percent of the County's total surface
area.
Almost all of the forestry acreage is owned by major timber campa-
nies. other acreage in this category are those lands actively managed
for forestry purposes. The increase in total acreage from 1975 to 1980
can be attributed to the expansion of the timber companies. It might be
expected that this category would lose some acreage in the future as ur-
ban and agriculture development increases.
j. Undeveloped and Water Land Use
In 1975, this category was entitled "other land use elements".
In 1975 Undeveloped and Water.Land Use accounted for 285,392.4.acres or
51.26 percent of the total surface area of the County. By 1980, this
figure had decreased to 269,195.1 acres, or 48.18 percent of the total
surface -area. This decrease corresponds with increases in all other land
use categories.
Included in this category are wetlands, barrier lands, wooded and
partially wooded lands not utilized for timber production and all bodies
of water.
44

BF&V,SIWC:K CCxJN'I'Y LAND USE 1975
Land Use
Acreage
Percentage of total
Developed Acreage.
Percentage of total Acreage
2lesidential
8,677.0
3.19%
1.55%
Came=i.al
537.0
.20
.10
Industrial
3,601.0
1.32
.64
Agriculture
35,341.0
12.98
6.33
Forestry
210,599.0
77.33
37.69
Transportatim l
CmTmmication,
and Utilities
3,600.0
1.32
.64
Coverrm-ent
9,349.0
3.43
1.68
Recreation
623.6
.23
.11
Subtotal
272,327.6
100.00%
48.74%
Lhdevelcped and
Water
286,392.4
51.26%
Total Surface Area
558,720.0
100.00%

U
BRUNSWICK COUNTY LAND USE 1980
Iand Use
Acreage
Percentage of Total
Developed Acreage
Percentage of
Total Acreage
Residential
9,654.0
3.33%
1.73%
Camerci.al
838.0
.29
.62
Industrial
5,143.0
1.78
.92
Agriculture
37,087.8
12.81
6.64
Forestry
222,834.5
76.96
39.88
Transportation,
Cam unication,
and Utilities
3,929.0
1.36
.70
Gent
9,400.0
3.25
1.68
Recreation
638.6
.22
.11
Subtotal
289,524.9
100.00%
51.82
Undavelcped and
Water
269,195.1
48.18%
Total Surface Area
558,720.0
100.00%
NUI'E: The reader 1s cautiorbed. The text Should be read carefully for explanation of the above
categories as to coverage. Further, local workshops have indicated the existing urban
residential character category is probably underestimated by as much as 3,000 acres. Further,
the U.S. Soil amservation's local Brunswick ocxmty officer disagrees with the forestry figures .
and is of the cpinion there has been an increase in lands in forestry since 1975 rather than a
decrease, by land reclamation/drainage activities and by reforestaticn,

C. CURRENT LAND USE REGULATIONS
1. EXISTING COUNTY GUIDANCE SYSTEM
It should be noted that although a number of ordinances have been
adopted by the various jurisdictions in the County, for the most part,
little attention has been given to the enforcement of these regulations.
As will be indicated below; many of these ordinances are
enforced by part-time personnel or are not enforced at all. This absence
of well developed enforcement mechanism is primarily due to the small
size of the jurisdictions and the limited resources that may be available
for such activities. During the implementation phases of this present
planning process a coordinated enforcement mechanism among jurisdictions.
should certainly be considered and evaluated.
Lack of .coordination is also a problem among the various locally
adopted land use related. regulations. The land use plans in the County
could serve as a basis for the coordination of ordinances. Following
the adoption of finalized land use plans prepared under C.A.M.A., the
implementation phase will certainly need to address the issue of coor-
dinating regulations.
a. Brunswick County Unincorporated Areas
(1) Zoning: There is no zoning of unincorporated areas of the
County other than limited extraterritorial jurisdiction by
sane municipalities.
.(2) Subdivision Ordinance: The County is currently enforcing a
newly adopted subdivision ordinance which applies in unin-
corporated areas of the County. The Ordinance is essen-
tially a registration ordinance for new divisions of land.
The Subdivision Ordinance contains no design criteria for
the approval or disapproval of new subdivisions, but does
contain street construction standards if streets are to be
dedicated. Private roads are permitted throughout at the
option of the developer. There are no minimum lot standards.
(3) Building Codes: Three portions of the North Carolina State
Building Codes are being enforced presently in. unincorporated
Brunswick County. These are the Electrical, Plumbing and
Heating and Air Conditioning codes. Score municipalities
enforce the State Building Code. By statutory mandate, coun-
ties in the population category of Brunswick are to start
enforcing the State Building Code by July 1, 1983, and
Brunswick County is preparing to do so.
(a) Electrical Inspection: All installations of electri-
cal wiring and fixtures are required by ordinance to
comply with the North Carolina Electrical Code.
Electrical inspectors have been appointed by the
Brunswick County Commissioners. These inspectors
work on a part time basis, receiving the inspec-
tion fee as compensation. Certification of Elec-
trical inspection is required prior to connecting
a newly erected structure to electrical service.
T
47

(b) Heating and Air Conditioning Inspection: All
heating and air conditioning installations in
the unincorporated areas of the County are re-
quired by ordinance to meet the specifications
of the State Building Code as it applies to
heating and air conditioning. One heating and
air conditioning inspector has been appointed
by the County Commissioners. No program for
the cmprehensive enforcement of the heating and
air conditioning code has been established, and
inspections are made essentially as requested
by persons making installations.
(4) Septic Tank Regulations: In accordance with a reso-
lution adopted by the Brunswick County Board of
Health, all installations of septic tanks in both
the unincorporated and incorporated areas of the County
must be approved by the County Health Department.
The County Health Board, in turn, is •required to meet
those standards set by the state. The septic tank
regulations set forth standards for the location
of septic tanks with relation to water supplies,
streams, lakes, building foundations, etc. 'The lo-
cation specifications apply not only to the actual.
septic tank itself but also to the installation of
nitrification lines. In addition to location re-
quirements, construction specifications are provided
for minimum sizes of both septic tanks and nitrifica-
.tion lines in relation to the number of bedrooms in
residential structures. The Health Department employs
five sanitarians who are responsible for the enforce-
ment of these septic tank regulations. Septic tank
standards apply throughout the County.
(5) Building Registration Ordinance: Brunswick County
has adopted and is enforcing a Building Registration
Ordinance which applies in all of the unincorporated
areas of the County. This ordinance requires a reg-
istration permit for any building construction which
has a total cost exceeding $1,000.
In order to acquire a building registration permit,
an application must be completed and filed with one .
of the County Building Registration Officials.
This application must include a sketch plan of the
praposed'oonstruction and a sewerage disposal
improvement permit issued by the County Health Depart-
ment. The first floor elevation of any structure pro-
posed for construction in a flood hazard area must be
provided with the required sketch plan. The Ordinance
also sets specific construction standards for build-.
i.ngs planned for location in Flood Hazard Areas.
48

The Tax Supervisor .is the Building Registration officer. Prior
to occupying a building for which a permit has been required, one
of the Building Registration Officials rust issue a certificate of
corpl i.ance.
(6) Land Use Plans: At the present time, the 1975 Brunswick
County Land Use Plan is being implemented by the Count-T and
the State C.A.M.A. permit officers as to Areas of Environmen-
tal Concern.
b. Brunswick County Incorporated Areas:
(1) . Yaupon Beach
(a). Zoning Ordinance - Yaupon Beach adopted a zoning ordinance
and map in April, 1974. The ordinance established the po-
sition of zoning administrator. Enforcement is provided
through the withholding.of building permits for proposed con-
struction that does not comply with the zoning ordinance.
A Board of Adjustment acts to interpret the zoning ordinance,
to consider special exceptions; and variances to the
ordinance. Changes in a particular zoning classification
are provided for through procedure for application to the.
Town Council for an amendment to the text of the zoning
ordinance and/or its map.
(b), Subdivision Ordinance - Yaupon Beach adopted a subdivision
ordinance in February, 1974. This ordinance requires pre-
paration of both preliminary and final plats which both
must be reviewed by the Planning Board and recatmended to
the Board of Commissioners. Final plat approval is required
by the Board of Commissioners.
Criteria for approval set forth in the ordinance include
required improvements to be provided by the developer (Water
lines and street preparation and paving) and compliance with
Town Plans. Enforcement of the Ordinance is provided
through the issuance or denial of permits.
(c). Building Codes - Yaupon Beach enforces three portions of the
State Building Code including the General Construction
(Building) code, the plumbing code, and the electrical code.
The Town Board of Commissioners has appointed a building
inspector who works entirely on a voluntary basis. The
Town building inspector enforces the Building Code and is
responsible .-for issuing building permits and perfarzmr
ing inspections to insure ampatibility of construction with
the code. The plumbing and electrical codes are enforced by
local inspectors. --
49

10
(d) , Land Use Plan - Yaupon Beach is preparing a C.A.M.A. Land Use
Pan Update.
(2 ) . Caswell Beach
Caswell Beach has adopted several ordinances which affect the
use and development of land in the municipality.
(a). Zoning Ordinance - The Ordinance oansists of a set of regu-
lations and an official map, governing the use and develop-
ment of land.
(b). Subdivision Ordinance - The Subdivision Ordinance estab-
lishes procedures and standards for the development and sub-
division of land.
i(c-).Building Codes - Caswell Beach enforces three portions of
the State Building Cade including the General Construction
(Building) Code, the plumbing code and the electrical code.
The Town Board of Cammssioners appointed a building inspec-
tor who works on a voluntary basis. The Town building in-
spector enforces the Building Code and is responsible for
issuing building pen uts and perforating inspecticns . .
to insure caTpatibilit-y of construction with the code. The
Plumbing and electrical codes are enforced by the local
building inspector.
(d).Land Use Plan - Caswell Beach adopted a C.A.M.A. Land Use
Plan Update on October 8, 1980. The Plan was approved by
the N.C. Coastal Resources Qatmissicei can January 23, 1981.
(3 ) . Holden Beach
Holden Beach adopted several ordinances which affect the use
and developnent of land in the municipality.
(a). Zoning Ordinance - The Zoning Ordinance consists of a set
of regulations and an official map which governs the use
and development of land. The Ordinance is administered by
the. Town Administrator.
(b), Subdivision'Ordinance - The Subdivision Ordinance was.cre-
ated with the purpose of establishing procedures.and stan-
dards that will regulate and control the subdivision of land.
This ordinance requires the preparation of both preliminary
and final plats which both must be reviewed by the Planning
Board and recamended to the Board of Cammissioners.
(c). Building Codes - Holden Beach enforces three portions of
the State Building Code including the Oral Construction.
(Building) Code the Plumbing Code and the Electrical Code.
Zhe Town Board of Camassioners appointed a building inspec-
tor who works on a voluntary basis. The Town building inspec-
50

for enforces the Building Code and is responsible for
issuing building permits and performing inspections to
insure cmpatibility of construction with the Code. The
Plumbing and electrical codes are enforced by the building
inspector.
(d). Land Use Plan - Holden Beach is preparing a C.A.M.A. Land. Use
Plan Update.
(4 ) Southport
(a). Zoning Ordinance - The City of Southport has an adopted Zon-
ing Ordinance. The Planning and Zoning Camnission of Sc:fd1-
port divided the City into districts and prepared regulations
pertaining to such districts on the basis of their land deve
lopnent plan. The Planning and Zoning Cc mission was granted
authority for the Zoning Ordinance. The regulations of the
Ordinance are applicable not only within the corporate limits
of the City, but also within a one mile extra -territorial
jurisdiction.
(b). Subdivision Ordinance - Southport adopted subdivision regula-
tions on August 24, 1970. '
(c). Building Codes - Southport enforces three portions of the
State Building Code including the General Construction
(Building) Code, the plumbing code and the electrical code.
The Board of Aldermen appointed a building inspector -who
works on a voluntary basis. The building inspector enforces
the Building Code and is responsible for the.issuing of
Building permits and performing inspections to insure camna-
tability of construction with the code. Plumbing and elec-
trical codes are enforced by the inspector.
(d). Land Use Plan - Southport adopted a C.A.M.A..Land Use Plan.
Update on October 9, 1980. It was approved by the Coastal
Resources Ccmni.ssion on December 4, 1980.
(5). Other Municipalities
N&vassa, Iong Beach,. Ocean Isle and Shallotte are in the process r
of updating their C.A.M.A. Land Use Plans. Other. municipalities have
plans, but not a11 of the thirteen in. the County. A number have
zoning and -subdivision .regulations and sc3me-er3faeee _various bui3ding-
orented state codes.
Sunset Beach's C.A.M.A. Land Use Plan Update was adapted by the N.C.
Coastal Resources Came ssion on Januaxy 23, 1981. Sunset Bead also
has extraterritorial zoning and subdivision authority.
51

t
2. STATE AND FEDERAL CDNTROIS
This section lists State and Federal land use related controls.
.. The agencies that these particular controls have stunned fran are the N.C.
Department of Natural Resources and Canminity Development, the N.C. Depart-
ment of Administration, the N.C. Department of Human Resources, the N.C.
Deparbment of Cultural Resources, the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S.
Deparbment of Transportation, the U.S. Department of Interior, the U.S.
Nuclear Regulatory Camdssion and the U.S. Energy Regulatory Commission.
The listed controls cover many areas of land use development and .
management including water and sewerage facilities, ground water, air and
water pollution, construction guidelines in areas of Environmental Con-
cern, dredging and filling, dams, mining erosion,historic and archeolo-
gical sites, bridges, and energy facilities.
52

N.C. DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND WC MUNITY DEVELOPMENT
(DIVISIONS OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGa= Pau: COASTAL MANAGEMENT)
STATE CONTROLS
Permits to discharge to surface
waters or operate waste water
treatment plants or oil discharge
permits; NPDES Permits, (G.S. 143
213)
-Permits for wastewater treatment systems with a
capacity over 3000 gallons/day
(G.S. 143-215.3)
-Permits for withdrawal of surface
or ground waters in capdci':y use
areas (G.S. 143-215.109)
-Permits for air pollution abate-
ment facilities and sources
(G.S. 143-215.109)
-Permits for construction of can-
plex sources; e.g. parking lots,
subdivision, stadiums, etc.
(G.S. 143-215-109)
Permits for construction of a well
over 100,00 gallons/day (G.S. 87-88)
-Permits to dredge and/or fill in
estuarine waters, tidelands, etc.
(G.S. 113-229)
-Permits to Undertake development
in areas of Environmental Concern
(G.S. 113A-118)
NOTE: Minor C.A.M.A. development permits
are issued by the local government.
53

N.C. DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND COMA9UNI7Y DEVELOPMENT
(DIVISION OF EARTH RESOURCES)
STATE CONTROLS
Permits to alter or construct a
dam (G.S. 143-215.66)
Permits to mine (G.S. 74-51)
-Permits to drill and exploratory
oil or gas well (G.S. 113-381)
-Permits to conduct geographical
exploration (G.S. 113-391)
(SECRETARY OF NRCD)
STATE CONTROLS
-Sedimentation erosion control
plans for any land disturbing
activity of over one contiguous
acre (G.S. 113A-54)
-Permits to construct an oil refinery
N.C. DEPARTMENT OF ADMUMTRATION
STATE CONTROLS
-Easements to fill where lands are'
proposed to be raised above the
normal high water mark or navigable
waters by filling (G.S. 146.6 (c) )
N.C. DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
4WNYDaik► K14-I �+
-Approval to operate a solid waste
disposal site or facility
(G.S. 130-166.16)
-Approval to install individual ground
absorption sewage disposal systems of
3,000 gallons or less design capacity -
(G.S. 130-166)
54

N.C. DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RFS'LRGES
(ODNT'D)
-Approval for construction of any
public water supply facility that
furnishes water to 15 or more year-
round residences or 25.or more year-
round residents.
N.C. DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL RESOURCES
(DIVISION OF ARCHIVES AMID HISTORY)
FEDERAL
-National Historic Preservation Act of 1966
-The Archeological and Historic Preservation Act
of 1974, Public Law 93-291
-Executive Order 11593, Protection and Enhancement
of Cultural Environment, 16 U.S.C. 470 (Supp. 1, 1971) '
National Environmental Policy Act,. Public Law
91-190, 42 U.S.C. 4321 F.L. Sep. (1970)
-CamIInunity Develognent Act of 1974; Public Law
98-383: Environmental Review Procedures for
the Community Development Block Grant Program
(40 CER Part 58)
-Procedures for the Protection of historic and
Cultural Properties (36 CFR Part 800)
-The Department of Transportation Act of 1966,
Public Law 89-670
-Identification and Administration of Cultural
Re$ources: Procedures of Individual -Federal
Agencies.
STATE
-G.S. 121-12 (a) Protection of Properties in.the
National Register.
55

N.C. DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL RESOURCES
(DIVISION OF ARCHIVES AMID HISTORY)
(CONT'D)
-State Environmental Policy Act, Article 1 of
Chapter 113A of the General Statutes
-Executive Order XVI
-Indian Antiquities, G.S. 70.1-4
-Salvage of Abandoned Shipwreck and other
Underwater Archeological Sites: G.S. 121-22,
23; 143B-62 (1) g, (3)
-Archeological Salvage in Highway Construction
G.S. 136-42.1
-Provisions for Cultural Resources in Dredging
and filling operations, G.S. 113-229
56

U.S. DEPARTIV= OF DEFENSE
(ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEEPS)
FEDERAL CONTROLS
.-Permits required under Sections 9-and 10 of
the Rivers and Harbors of 1899; permits to
construct in navigable waters.
-Permits required under Section 103 of the
Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries
Act of 1972.
-Permits required under Section 404 of the
Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972;
Permits to control the discharges of dredge
or filled material into waters of the United
States.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(COAST GUARD)
U:S, DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR
(THE GEOLOGICAL SURVEY, BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT)
FEDERAL CONTROLS
-Permits for bridges, causeways, pipelines over
navigable waters; required under the General
Bridge Act of 1946 and the Rivers and Harbors
Act of 1899
-Deep water port permits
-Permits required for off -shore drilling
-Approvals of OCS pipeline corridor rights -of -way
U.S. NUCLEAR REGULATORY CONMISSION.'
Y
` FEDERAL CONTROLS
-Licenses for siting, construction and operation
of nuclear power plants, ; required under the Atomic
Energy Act of 1954 and Title II of the Energy
Reorganization Act of 1974
T.
57

U.S. ENERGY REGULATORY CONIl"IISSION
FEDERAL CONTROLS
-Permits for construction, operations and
maintenance of interstate pipelines facilities
required under the Natural Gas Act of 1974
-Orders of interconnection of electric trans-
mission facilities under Section 202 (b) of
the Federal Pm..ar Act.
-Permission require for abandonment of
natural gas pipeline and associated
facilities under Section 7C (b) of the
Natural Gas Act of 1938
-Licenses for non-federal hydroelectric
projects and associated transmission lines
under Sections 4 and 15 of the Federal Power Act.

D. ASSESSMFNT OF r''ST PLAN'S PROBLE?;SS AND ISSUES
In 1975, citizan participation helpa`i define problems and issues
facing Brunswick (,)urity.
A County -wide survey was conducted; other input came from the Plan-
ning Board and the head of Departments in the County Government. The
problems and issues generated were then summarized into one document.
Since it is important to determine whether these problems still
exist and w1hat changes in nature, context and intensity of these prob-
lems have occurred, an analysis and an assessment of the 1975 Land Use
Plan's problems has been made. The problems and issues.delineated in
1975 are summarized by the following list, which is not a priority list..
1. Parks and recreation for young people
2. Lack of doctors, health and medical facilities
3. Recreation for the elderly
4. Property taxes
5. Sewerage disposal
6. Lack of cultural opportunities
7. Traffic coagestion, lack of adequate coastal highways, and
improper road maintenance
8. Lack of adequate law enforcement
9. Public school facilities
10. Air pollution
11. Water pollution
12. Solid.Wasto
13.. Noise Pollution
14. Ambulance service
15. Loss of agricultural land to other uses
16. Water
17. Drainage
18. Fire protection
19. Mass transit for the elderly
20. Conflicting land uses
21. Housing
22. Inlet access,,boat ramps, boat access
23. Neighbornocd recreation areas
24. Preservation of historic sites
25. Natural scenic areas
26. Parking and access to public beaches
27. Lack of ccrar-rcial facilities
Each problem is analyzed to determine its present state, changes
which may have occurred since 1975, and whether it is still a problem, cr
concern.
Problem 1: Lack of Parks and Recreation for Young People
In 1975, lack of adequate recreational opportunity for young people
was pointed out. There has been substantial improvement since 1975.
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The County has established four district parks. These parks contain
baseball fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, and playgrounds. There
are other improvements which have occurred since 1975 and will occur in the
near future in the recreational facilities available to Brunswick County
residents. A final recreation site in the Town Creek Township. is being
selected at this time.
Shallotte Lion Club's Community Park is planned to be improved soon.
The old Shallotte one room school house has been moved to the park site
and will function as a small museum. There will be increased playground
facilities as well as picnic tables and shelters.
Southport has added.to its recreational facilities in the last four
years. Since 1976, a little league field of three acres, two multi -use
basketball courts of one-half acre, a mini park of one-half acre, and
two tennis courts of one-half acre have been developed. There are plans
for a waterfront park of one acre. It will consist primarily of play-
ground type facilities.
Long Beach is in the process of making substantial strides in im-
proving their recreation facilities. Since 1976, they have added two
tennis courts on the public park site. Construction will soon be under-
way on a 5500 sq. ft. Community Building on a two acre site. It will
contain four activity roans, a kitchen, bathroom and locker roan, a
weight lifting roam and a photo lab. The Long Beach recreation plan in-
cludes a gym, a park, more tennis courts and a swimming pool. Also there
will be a scenic walk developed soon.
There has been obvious improvement in County recreation facilities
and programs since 1975. The following is a list of programs and facili-
ties presently provided by the County Recreation DeparbTent.
1.
Little League Baseball
2.
Babe Ruth Baseball
3.
Legion Baseball
4.
Men's Softball
5.
Warren's Softball
..6.
Girl's Softball
7.
Men's Basketball
8.
Midget Football
9.
Summer Playground Programs
10.
Senior Citizen's programs
11.
Special Olympics
12.
Art Programs
13.
Tennis Classes
14.
Swimming Classes
15.
Photography Workshop
16.
.Cooperation with the area schools in helping with maintenance
,.
of athletic facilities.
60

P
a. Facilities
Brunswick County presently maintains four district parks located _
in the following townships: Waccamaw - Waccamaw Park, Lockwoods Folly -
Supply Park, and Northwest - Leland and Navassa Parks. Following'is a
list of each park's facilities.
Waccamaw Park - 11 acres
Supply Park - 15 acres
Field #1 (Little.League)
Field #1 (Little League)
20 light fixtures
29 light fixtures
- 2 dugouts
5 spotlights
fence
6 bleachers s
1 picnic shelter
1 concession stand
2 tennis courts
a restroan/storage bldg.
8 light fixtures on tennis
4 dugouts
courts
fence-
1 concession stand/restrocm
1 playground
1 ccmnunity activities bldg.
Field #2 (Men's Softball)
1 multi -purpose field
16 light fixtures
5 bleachers
2 .dugouts
Field #2 (Men's Softball)
1 concession stand
28 light fixtures
fence
2 dugouts
4 bleachers
fence
Leland Park - 12 acres
Navassa Park - 5 acres
Fields #1 and #2 (Little League)
Field #1
40 light fixtures
30 light fixtures
4 dugouts
2 bleachers
fence .
2 dugouts
1 concession stand/restroam/storage bldg.
fence
2 picnic shelters
1 warehouse
1 cacmunity building
1 school building
1 multi -purpose area
b. Future Recreation Facilities
It is inappropriate to assume that the County recreation needs'
could be fulfilled at one time and therefore, the Brunswick County Parks
& Recreation Advisory Committee established priorities for the acquisition
and development of the County Park System.
The first priority is the acquisition and development of district
parks. These are the parks that are closest to the people and provide
the day to day recreation facilities.
The second priority is the acquisition and development of a County
Park for the provision of a greater range of recreation opportunities and
recreation activities of longer duration.
y
11
`M

The contents of the District Parks will be:
(1) Multi -purpose building or ccnnunity type building
(2) Basketball courts
(3) Tennis courts
(4) Athletic fields
(5) Children's Play areas
(6) Picnic areas
The County Wide Park will contain the same things plus the following:
(1) Swimming facility
(2) Gyjn
(3) Hiking and nature trails.

Needs Methodology
These standards are compared to population estimates for towns in
the County and the County as a whole.
Recreation needs are based on population and expressed in acres per
1000 population with adequate development on these•acres. In determining.
the needs for Brunswick County and its.urban areas for the present and
future years, current population estimates and. future projections are
essential.- Recreation needs are presented for 1980 and 1990.
The current population estimate and population projection by the
State:
Population
Municipality 1980 1990
Belville
83
142
Boiling Spring Lakes
963
1,627
Bolivia
233
399
Calabash
214
598
Caswell Beach
85
112
Holden Beach
215
350
Long Beach
2,217
3,742
Navassa
446
752
Ocean Isle Beach
233
399
Shallotte
857
1,447
Shady Forest (Inactive)
23
45
Southport
3,136
4,145
Sunset Beach
149
251
Yaupon Beach
538
947
14 P56
Municipality Subtotal
9,414
Unincorporated Area
28,686
49_,344
64,300
TOTAL
38,100*
*The U.S. Bureau of the Census released on October 13, 1980, a
preliminary count of 35,349 persons as of April 1, 1980. other 1990
projections such as by the Council of Government predict a permanent
resident population in Brunswick County of 77,000 persons by 1990.
By suggested standards in (the N.C. State Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan.), the following acres of recreation lands are needed with-
in the County for 1980 and 1985:
1980
1985
TOTAL ACRE
514.5
658.5
Provision of these lands is a joint responsibility of private
interests and government at all levels.
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Problem 2: Lack of Doctors, Health Care and Medical Facilities
A problem pointed out in 1975 was a lack of.a sufficient number of
doctors and medical and health facilities. In 1975, Brunswick County
had 45 hospital beds less, 2 less speciality care physicians, and four
less dentist than'the-need suggested by the Cardinal Regional Public
Health Care Agency. In 1975, although, Brunswick County met standards
for primary care physicians and hcme health care.
Since 1975, there has been substantial improvement in health and
and medical care facilities. The Brunswick County Hospital has been
completed and provides 60 additional hospital beds. Brunswick County
has also gained 6 additional doctors which keeps it within the planning
standards for primary care physicians. Brunswick County is still mussing
some specialty care physicians and dentists. It needs 3 more dentists
and 6 speciality care physicians to meet the standards of the Cardinal
Health Care Agency. Further, Dosher Hospital in Southport added 40 beds
and additional staffing in August, 1980.
Since Brunswick County is only short several doctors and dentists,
it appears that there is not a substantial problem in the Health Care
Field. .
64

It is necessary to note that Brunswick Coiurty is a part of the
Wilmington S.D9.S.A. and is separated from Wilmington - New Hanover. County
only by a river. Excellent regional medical care facilities and prac-
titioners are located in New Hanover County, providing significantly to
meeting needs of Brunswick County.
Problem 3: Inadequate Recreation for the Elderly
Brunswick County, by virtue of its becoming a retirement area, has
a greater than average percentage of its population in the 60 years and
over group. These senior citizens have different interests than most
general recreation programs accomodate.
In the past the only structured recreational programs for the
elderly provided for monthly outings in the Southport - Oak Island area.
In Southport in the old marineology buildiag.is an elderly center
with plans of further providing movies and various other activities
geared to the interests of the senior citizens.
A second center is located in the old health building in Shallotte.
It offers a full range of recreational activities and health care ser-
vices. T
The only areas where a lack of facilities for the elderly seem to
be is in the Leland-Belville area. The program for the Shallotte center
calls for transportation to be periodically provided to the center for
senior citizens in outlying areas. This service is extensive enough that '
most people wanting to use the services should be able to. The only real
problem remains in the Leland-Belville area where some facility should be
provided for senior citizens.
Problem No. 4: Property Taxes
A. Property Taxes Are Too High
This problem is always mentioned when government is discussed. To
determine whether it is a problem, a comparison to other counties was
made. The average tax rate of the 100 North Carolina counties was $.75
per $100 valuation in 1979. This was far greater than the $.47 rate for
Brunswick county.
For this tax, Brunswick County supplies its citizens with many ser-
vices that are often not provided by other counties with far higher tax
rates.
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B. Lack of Method to Collect Personal Property Taxes from Transients
General purpose local government in North Carolina has trouble col-
lecting personal property taxes. Life time residents as well as tran-
sients often fail to register. Out-of-state newcomers often are not
aware of this tax, since it is somewhat unique to.North Carolina. The
State has aided counties and cities in the past by providing records of
vehicle registration which may be used to track down tax evaders. It is
likely that this problem will continue unless substantial effort is
placed into enforcement and punishment of violators.
Problem Number 5: Sewerage Disposal
I. Introduction
The 1975 Land Use Plan identified lack of sewerage disposal facili-
ties as a major problem facing Brunswick County.
Various Studies indicate that indeed a problem with sewerage exists.
The County is pursuing means of providing a system.
II. Changes in Problem Since 1975
The problem of sewerage disposal has accelerated since 1975. At
that time and now, only one public sewer system exists, in the
City of Southport. It is operating at near capacity and has operational
problems. One package system has been added in the past 5 years. The
Carolina Shores Subdivision near Calabash constructed a package treatment
system which will accommodate 700 units.
Brunswick County Government has assumed the lead role in 201 faci-
lity planning for Brunswick County. Three areas have been designated as
planning areas. Southwest 201 area: Shallotte, Holden Beach, Ocean
Isle, Sunset Beach, and Calabash areas. Southeast 201 area: Oak Island
and Southport area and the Northern 201 area which includes the Leland,
Navassa, and Northwest communities. At this writing preliminary plans
have been submitted for both the Southeast and Southwest study areas.
The Southwest area plan calls for land application of the effluent and
the Southeast plan calls for a secondary treated point source discharge
into the Cape Fear River north, of Southport." No planning has taken glace
m the .Northern study area. A number of municipalities are trying "to go it..
alone" to meet this problem, as the County Is work has been delayed for several
Years by E.P.A. because of talk of a possible National Barrier Islands Bill, and
more recently for a statewide barrier island envoram erital impact study. A
sewer system for areas to be urban must be developed and funding sources will
have to be discovered, even if as Southport declared cap Ocher 9, 1980, they
are willing to assume the full burden locally, in order to get it dare.
III. Is This Issue Still a Problem?
The problem of sewerage disposal is still a problem in 1980. With
continued interest in this issue by both local government and private
interest sectors, Brunswick County should be in much better control of
this problem before 1985.
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Problem 6: Lack of Cultural Opportunities
Since 1975, cultural opportunities have increased in Brunswick
County. Most of this increase is a result of the activities sponsored
by the Arts Councils of Southport and Oak Island. A public art gallery
has been set up in Southport for local artists and occasionally other
small touring exhibits. There has been a number of local programs rang-
ing from ballet to concerts in Hatch Memorial Auditorium on Oak Island.
Nearby Wilmington and Myrtle Beach help to meet this need.
Problem 7: Traffic congestion, Lack of Adequate Highways, Lack of
Proper Road Maintenance (See Part I, B. Land Use Survey
and analysis)
Since 1975, some limited improvements have taken place in the County
road system. Overall, there is present and projected inadequacy in the
road network.
Problem 8: Lack of Adequacy Law Enforcement
Citizen opinion in 1975, was that there was a lack of adequate law
enforcement in Brunswick County. Brunswick County presently has 82
police officers. This is twice the number of officers rewired by the
state standards. Also, towns have many more officers than specified by
State Standards. Seasonal residents, tourists, and heavy foreign traffic
on U.S. 17 necessitate this service.
Problem 9: Public School Facilities
In 1977, two years after the issue of inadequate school facilities
was documented, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction com-
pleted a study to determine the adequacy of the existing facilities.
.This report has been updated to 1979 and the results are as follows:.
Name
North Brunswick
Leland Middle
Lincoln Primary
South Brunswick
Southport -Primary
Bolivia Elementary
Southport Middle
West Brunswick
Union Primary
Waccamaw Elementary
Shallotte Middle
Evaluation
Arch/Engineering Educational
Long Range Use
Long Range Use
Long Range Use
Long Range Use'
Improvements Needed
Medium Range Use
Long Range Use
Long Range Use
Long Range Use
Long Range Use
Not Long Pange Use
Not Long Range Use
Due to the size and
limitations of the site and the
conditions of facilities on this site, serious con-
sideration should be given to relocating the school.
Long Range Use
Long Range Use
Fair Condition
Medium Range Use
Not Long Range Use
Not Long Range Use
Facilities should be replaced .................
Brunswick County has made outstanding progress at relocating or
upgrading for needed facilities.
I
67

Problem - 10: Water Pollution
Water pollution was a problem in 1975 and is still a problem in the
County to date. Coastal waters are polluted and this has caused the .
closing of approximately 75 percent of the County's shellfish beds. Sep-
tic tanks may be malfunctioning and spilling raw sewerage into the
estuaries; the poorly treated effluent fr m the Myrtle Beach area may
travel to this area. Further, recreational boating, farming and fores-
try activities, earth working, and marine -related business and industry
are all suspected of contributing score share to this water pollution.
Various studies have been made but no definite finger -pointing has been
found to instigate a corrective program.
Problem 11: Air Pollution
Air pollution was pointed out as a problem in 1975. There is.no
hard data on the air quality of the County. A Fish Meal Plant near the
Oak Island Bridge emits strong odors; the Paper Plant located in
Riegelwood, in Columbus County, emits sulfur oxide fumes and at other
times simply foul smelling odors.
Problem 12: Garbage Disposal
The issue of how to dispose of solid wastes and'where to dispose of
It has been a.problem for many years. Its importance has surfaced in
recent years because of new regulations causing initial capital as well
as operating costs to rise.
Brunswick County since 1975, has improved the garbage collection
and disposal system. The landfill workers have placed dumpster equipment at
various sites around the County for general public use.
The County is moving to acquisition of a landfill site which
is projected to meet needs. for another 'twdnty years, together with a trans-
fer station. Study is also being given to possible incineration.
On the basis. of this Land Use Plan, as will also be done with plans
for other public_ services, solid waste needs will be reviewed. and specific
recycling will be studied.
Problem 13: Possible Noise Pollution
In 1975, noise pollution was pointed out as a problem. Only those .
persons in the surrounding area of the Leland motor speedway complained
of this problem. The speedway is still in operation and produces the*
same amount of noise as it did in 1975. Races are held weekends.
There is no data on the noise levels at the speedway's property -
edge. Establishment of decibel levels will need to be made before it
can be determined if there is a problem.
68

Problem 14: Ambulance Service
.A large number of citizens complained of inadequate ambulance ser-
vice in 1975.
At that time a Cardinal Regional Health Public agency report indi-
cated that, based on Brunswick County's population, there were
actually six more vehicles than needed.
Since 1975, rescue squads have located in Waccamaw Township, Coast'
line Rescue at Holden Beach, and Boiling Spring Lakes .has one in the pro-
cess of formation. Five additional vehicles and numerous other equipment
have been added to both existing and new operations.
Problem 15: Loss of Agricultural Land to Other Uses
In 1975, it was determined that there was a total of 34,341 acres
devoted to.agricultural uses in the County. Even though there may have.
been limited conversion of productive agricultural lands to urban uses
since, the acreage in this category has increased due to the -reclamation
of some "wetland" areas.
Problem 16: Water
Introduction
Water, or the lack of it, was another of the major concerns expressed
at the CPAC meetings in 1975.
Changes Since 1975
The 1975 Land Use Plan documented the fact that a large number of
residential water users were getting their water supply fran privately
owned water systems or from private shallow wells. Since 1975,.this sit-
uation has increased as development has increased.
The primary reason for these small water systems is the lack of a
wide -spread public system. Several can mities have constructed public
water systems since that time. Included are Long Beach, Caswell Beach,
Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, and Bolivia has expanded and improved its
existing system. These can be added to the past.existing systems which
included Southport, Boiling Spring Lakes, Ocean Isle Beach, Shallotte,
and Yaupon Beach.
Brunswick County has also completed a water treatment facility and
distribution system since 1975. Phase I of the County wide system was
designed to treat 5 million gallons of water per day and to furnish it to
Pfizer Corp. and Southport on an emergency basis. This existing plant
now operates at near capacity and has experienced treatment problems at
high water demand. Brunswick County is preparing to expand the plant
in the near future and is working out financial details to do so at
this time.
69

R
Brunswick County has also been interested in the possible system of
the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority since before 1975. This
regional water system is less of a reality today than ever before.
Brunswick County is expected to begin construction of its Phase II.system.
Brunswick County is working to provide and additional ten million gallons of
water each day. Brunswick County plans to treat the water and distribu-
tion will be made to the Leland sanitary district, Southport, Oak Island,
Holden Beach, and the lower Brunswick Islands and to lands connecting
these areas as urbanization proceeds.
Is Water Still A Problem?
Water will always be of concern.
Problem 17: Drainage
Because Brunswick County is on the coastal plain of North Carolina,
site drainage can be a problem. The water table is high.
The lack of adequate drainage systems can 'prohibit proper septic tank
functioning. In areas of poor drainage, the County Health Department
requires drainage ditches be cut before a septic tank permit is issued..
We will always be forced to contend with the problems of poor
drainage in Brunswick County. We must deal with this situation in order
to minimize the effect of this problem. Site alterations are often nec-
essary to accomplish this.
Problem 18: Fire Protection
Fire protection,like many other necessities, grows or the need for.
it grows as population and density increases.
.The 1975 Land Use Plan identified fire protection as a concern of
the general public. At that time there were four areas which needed.ser-
vice. All four of the areas now have voluntary fire departments. They
are Waccamaw., Ocean Isle Beach, Supply, and Shallotte Point.
According to an old COG Report, Brunswick County needs a substation
in the Leland area. This has not been accomplished to date.
Fire protection will continue to be of concern.
Problem 19: Public Transportation
There is little public transportation in Brunswick County. There
is only one taxi service, at Oak Island. The County Social Service De-
partment operates a van service, to aid senior citizens and the poor.._
In Shallotte,-passing interstate buses on Highway 17 can be flagged down
at an official_ bus stop that has no bus station.
Bus service is compounded by the low population density character.
of much of the County. Only in urban areas should such service be expec-
ted to be provided, when reasonably high density has occurred.
70

Problem 20: Possibly Conflicting Land Uses
Conflicts in land use occur when uncompatible land uses are located.
in close proximity to one another.
Mixing of land uses is prevalent and is generally acceptable in Bruns-
wick County. Often this occurrence has no negative effects, but same -
times conflicts between uses can arise. For example, the traffic gene-
rated by a store can overburden roads or create dangers for children if
it is.located in a residential neighborhood. Property values can be re-
duced by intrusion of mobile homes into conventional single family hame
neighborhoods. Since the unincorporated County is essentially unregu-
lated in the use of land, there is little way to discourage the mixing of
conflicting uses of land. Specifically, the lack of zoning has allowed
this problem to continue and worsen. As the population increases, inten-
sity of land use also increases. People are forced to live closer and
closer to their neighbors. The proximity car_ magnify conflicts in uses.
Problem 21: Housing
Housing
Housing has always been a problem in Brunswick County. In 1975,
there was 2,058 substandard dwelling units in the County. There was
also a total need of 4,469 additional dwelling units in 1975. Of these
units, 1,338 were needed for lower and moderate income persons. These
persons would qualify for various subsidy programs, if available.
The lack of housing and the poor quality of sane existing housing is `
still a problem in Brunswick County. It appears that it will continue
to be.a problem in the future.
In the past, the County has been able to do little to alleviate
these conditions. Especially important is the improvement of housing con-
ditions for low and moderate incase persons. The only forms of subsidized
housing presently in the County is Section 8 existing units rent subsidy.
Problem 22: Inlet Access, Boat Ramps, and Boat Access
Brunswick County's major recreational attractions are its coastal
and adjacent waters. The County has 414 mules of ocean shoreline, 39 of
the miles are beach and 24 miles are inlets. Six of the shoreline miles
run in a north -south direction and 354 miles run in an east -west direc-
tion. Six islands and six inlets make up the ocean coast line.
Beginning at the New Hanover County line, Corncake Inlet is the
first inlet. This inlet has a history of shifting and was in New -Hanover
County when it silted up and closed about 1956 only to reopen again in
1974 in Brunswick County. The first of the islands is Baldhead which lies
between Corncake Inlet and the Cape Fear River. The eastern beach of „
this island is the only beach in the County lying in a north -south direc-
tion. Another 3 miles of beach lies in an east -west direction.
71

Next is the Cape Fear River which is the largest inlet in the County
and one of the largest and most stable major shipping lanes on the North
Carolina coast. This inlet is amply wide and deep to allow very large
• freighters passage. Oak Island, the largest island in Brunswick County,
has a shoreline of 12� miles. Oak Island was partly mainland until the
Intracoastal Waterway was constructed.
The Intracoastal Waterway provides recreational, commercial and
industrial ship traffic access to the entire length of the County. Lock-
wood Folly Inlet is at the west end of Oak Island. This inlet is the
second most stable in the County, generally moving within a 400.foot
range. It provides access between the waterway and ocean -for fishing
and recreational boats. Depth at high tide is approximately. 9 feet.
Holden Beach has a shoreline of 8 miles. on the west end of Holden Beach
lies Shallotte Inlet. This inlet also provides access for shrimping,
fishing, and recreational vessels. Depth at high tide is approximately
9 feet.- This inlet is less stable and generally shifts within a 700 foot
range.
Another narrow island is next, then Ocean Isle Beach, which has a
shoreline of 6 miles. Next is Tubbs Inlet, a very unstable inlet with
a migration history within a 2,000 foot range. It has questionable use
for boat traffic. Sunset Beach is the next island. This island has a
coastline of 2 miles. Tubbs inlet at present bisects Sunset Beach and
part of the Town of Sunset Beach now lies on the same island as ocean
Isle Beach, due to this migration.
The last -inlet is Mad Inlet, the most unstable in the County. The
migration range of this inlet is well over half a mile. It is completely
useless for boat traffic. The last island is Bird Island, the smallest
on the Atlantic Coast with a shoreline of a mile.
Little River Inlet, which is actually in South Carolina.is planned .
to be dredged soon. Calabash Creek will be dredged at the same time. -
This will increase the access to the ocean for fishing boats from the
Calabash area, which have only access through this neighboring state.
Boat ramps, both public and private, are sparsely provided in the
County. For boat fishermen, most of the estuarine waters and the ocean
are accessible by way of these ramps. Southport provided two boat ramps
at the New Yacht basin. Long Beach has four public boat ramps along the
Intracoastal Waterway side of the island. Boat ramps became scarcer as
one travels to. the «estern portion of the County.
Boat access to the fresh water rivers and shores is difficult.as
there are no improved boat ramps on most of than.. There are some areas
that are used for the launching of boats -that are light enough to be carried
to a steam bank and placed in the water, at high tide.
a
4.
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Problem 23: Lack of Neighborhood Recreation Areas
In 1975, Brunswick County faced a lack of recreational facilities.
Brunswick County has established four district parks which have done
much to increase recreational opportunity, but there is still a lack of
recreational facilities. There were no neighborhood parks in 1975 and
none have been built since. Such parks are traditionally a municipal
responsibility.
Problem 24: Preservation of Historic Sites.
There are many historic places in Brunswick County. Historic places
.are unique and nonrenewable resources which owe their significance to
their association with American history, archaeology, architecture, and
cultures of the past. Most historic places in Brunswick County are pri-
vately owned. This may cause problems with their preservation. Those
sites which are federally or state owned are Letter protected.
Although development has occurred near historic sites, they usually
are not negatively affected. For example a condcminium "is being
developed on the site of a 19th Century artillery battery at Caswell
Beach. The developer is incorporating the battery foundations into the
development. They will add much to the uniqueness of the development
and be a visual reminder of the past. Such thoughtful development of
historic places -should be encouraged, but very significant historic sites
should be preserved if at all possible.
Problem 25: Natural Scenic Areas
Lack of Natural scenic areas was pointed out as a problem in 1975.
.Brunswick County has eleven natural area sites containing 2,025 acres..
Most of the sites are private and include an island in the Cape Fear
River, a marsh area on Long Beach, a small undeveloped coastal island
(Bird Island), and Orton Pond. The other six sites are held by oammer-
cial enterprises. Two of these, a bog area in Smithville Township and
a former Savannah in Shallotte Township are owned by timber canpanies.
Another , a Pocosin in Boiling Spring Lakes,is owned by a developer.
The other sites are part of the Smith Island Cariplex. N.C. 133 between
U.S. 17-74-76 and Sunny Point is considered a Scenic area, combining as
it does natural,historic and the man-made feature of an extremely wind-
ing coastal road. Gause Landing is also considered a natural scenic fea-.
ture of the County, as are numerous areas extending from the historic
older section of Southport with its magnificent live oak trees to similar
areas on the mainland generally near the marshes all the way to the South
Carolina border.
Problem 26: Parkinc7 and Access to Public Beaches
Beach access in Brunswick County varies greatly between areas. Long
Beach provides 25 beach access areas with parking.
These often contain picnic tables and dune crossover walks. Yaupon Beach
similarly has ready beach access. Most streets which are perpendicular
to the beach have parking areas at the beach end. Caswell Beach has one
small parking area for the beach. Considering the poor quality of the
w
73

beach along most of Caswell Beach, (rapid erosion has caused many stumps
to become exposed and the bead is very narrow), few beach access routes
k are possible.
Holden Beach appears to have some major problems with Beach access.
The East tip of the island is attractive for many uses but there is no
nearby parking. There is a nature trail and wide beaches near the inlet.
Vehicles are allowed on the beach there with a permit. There are few
access points and parking lots along the main body of the island. only
at the Western end, where development is less intensive, is the beach
accessible.
ocean Isle Beach has one major access point at the pier, directly.
at the end of the road which crosses over from the mainland. There is
adequate parking there. other beach access points are less formally
provided. Parking at these points is often non-existent with problems
often occurring from people parking in the right-of-way.
Sunset Beach similarily has one major access point directly at the .
end of the road which crosses aver from the mainland. Sunset Beach is
unique in that the road and houses are set back very far fron the beac4
and has thirty-three public access paints.
s
-Beach'access and parking at the beach is still a problem in most of
Brunswick County. Further, there is a lack of public access permits on
the mainland to the many rivers and to the Intercoastal Waterway.
Problem 27: Commercial Facilities (See part I, B. Land Use Survey and
analysis).
Retail services and trades are developed where they can be supported.
More and more various types are constantly being added in the County.
This is no longer considered a problem.
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41
'7a

PART It
CONSTRAINTS
TO
DEVELOPMENT

A. LAND SUITABILITY
w
1. Physical Limitations for Development
a. Hazard Areas
(1) Man-made
Chief among the existing man made hazard areas in Brunswick
County are the numerous inadequate, unsafe roadways. No month goes by
without deaths and loss of valuable property from accidents on these roads.
Other sections of this Plan have discussed this situation. Improvements
have to be made. The roads having the highest rates of accidents/deaths
all carry traffic of non -local orgin. Among the major roads with severe
limitations that can be classified hazard areas are U.S. 74-76, U.S. 17,
N.C. 133, and N.C. 211.
Another transportation feature that can be classified hazardous
is the inadequacy of bridge access to the beach communities either be-
cause of outdated facilities or lack of facilities.
. Another hazard area from transportation view point is the
Sout1iport-0ak Island area, where other man-made hazards require the state
and federal -government address safer means for persons in that area to be
able to evacuate in the event of emergencies.
Other man-made hazard areas are the railroad to and from as
well as the federal government's Sunny Point U.S. Ocean Terminal.
Still another such hazard area is Carolina Power and Light
' Company's nuclear.electric generating plant near Southport.
There are two general aviation facilities, one owned by'the
County on the mainland across from Oak Island, and the other privately
owned on the mainland near Ocean Isle. Neither is considered a hazard,
any more than the observed low flying planes crossing Brunswick County
near U.S. 74-76- 17 area, entering and leaving the Wilmington airport.
(2) Natural.
In 1977, the then Federal Insurance Administration issued pre-
liminary findings on the possible land areas within the 100 year flood
zone . A significant area of Brunswick County was shown. Final.determi-
nations need to be made by the new Federal Emergency Management Adminsi
tration as quickly as possible in order to know the exact lands in this
condition. The 1977 preliminary findings have been challenged not only
locally, but even by other federal agencies.
Further, although most such areas are in the jurisdiction of
municipalities, there are ocean erodible areas, exemplified by the lands
near the Coast Guard Base on Oak Island, and the adjacent Baptist Assem-
bly Grounds. Also, unstable inlets between most of the barrier islands
create erodible areas on these islands.
75

b. Areas with Soil Limitations
(1). The Brunswick County office of the U.S. Soil Conservation
Service was helpful in providing an analysis of soils in order to deter-
mine areas with hazards for foundations, shallow soils, poorly drained
soils, and areas with limitations for septic tanks including both areas
that are generally characterized by soil limitations, but within which
small pockets of favorable soils do exist, as well as areas where soil
limitations are cannon to most of the soils present.
The U.S. Soil Conservation Service has completed a significant
part of a detailed soils analysis for Brunswick County, and this work to -
A date combined with..the knowledge of the soil, scientists of that office
provided the following information.
follows:
Basic rating categories of soils associations are defined as
Slight: Soil properties are generally favorable for the stated
uses, or limitations are minor and can be easily over-
come.
Moderate: Some soils properties are unfavorable but that limita-
tions resulting fran the properties can be overcome
or modified by_ special planning, good design, and care-
ful management.
Severe: Soil properties are unfavorable and resulting limita-
'tions are too difficult to correct or overcome. Soil
will require major soil reclamation or special design
for stated uses. This rating, however, does not imply
that the soil cannot be used.
Very Severe: This rating is a subdivision of the severe rat-
ing and has one or more features so unfavorable
for the stated use that the limitation is very
difficult and expensive to overcome. Reclama-
tion would be very difficult, requiring the soil
material to be removed, replaced, or completely
modified. This rating is confined to soils that
require extreme alteration and, generally, are not
t
used for dwellings and septic tank filter fields.
These soil associations are:
Slight Category:
RAYMF'ArE-BIjTCN-KjJFEB-WANDO ASSOQATICNS-`lhe soils of this associatian
are generally found on the nearly Level to steep uplands of the Coastal
Plain. Slopes range fran 0 to 15 percent. The soils are well to excess-
ively drained, and the depth to high water table is greater than six feet.
Usually there is no flooding cf the area.
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76

Moderate Category
ONSL04-l-GODDSBORO-LYNCHBURG ASSOCIATION - The soils of this association
are generally found on the nearly level to gently sloping uplands of the
Coastal Plain. Slopes range from zero to two and up to five percent.
The drainage properties range from somewhat poorly drained to moderately
well drained, and the depth to high water table ranges from 0.5 to 2.5
feet. Flooding is not characteristic of the area, however, wetness may
be frequent. .
LEAF-LENOIR CRAVEN ASSOCIATION - The soils of this association are pri-
marily sound in the uplands of the middle and upper Coastal Plain.
They are characteristically wet, although drainage ranges from poorly
drained to moderately well drained. Generally, there is no flooding and
the depth to high water table ranges from h to 2'h feet. Percolation
through the soil is slaw. The slope of the soils in this association are
primarily between zero and.two percent but can reach as high as 8 percent.
MANDARIN LECN MURVILLE ASSOCIATION The soils of this association are
mostly found on the nearly level to gentle slopes of the Coastal Plain.
Slopes range from zero to five percent. Flooding is very infrequent,
if any occurs at all. The soils are moderately well drained to very
Poorly drained which may cause wetness. The depth to high water table
ranges from about zero to two and one half feet.
Severe Category
CROATAN TORHUNTA ASSOCIATION - The soils of this association are found
on nearly level surfaces of the Coastal Plain. Slopes range from zero to
two percent, and flooding may be frequent. The soils are very poorly
drained and are characteristically wet. Depth to high water table ranges
from about zero to one foot.
CROATAN MURVTT.T.F LEON MANDARIN ASSOCIATION - The soils of this association
are found on nearly level surfaces of the coastal Plain. Slopes ranges
from zero to two percent. The soils are very -poorly drained to somewhat
poorly drained, and are subject to flooding. The depth to high water
table ranges'fran zero to just over one foot. The surfaces are generally
sandy to mucky.
Very Severe Category
MUCKALEE LUMBEE DORAVAN ASSOCIATION - The soils of this association are
often found on flood plains of streams located in the Coastal Plain.
Slopes range from zero to two percent, and flooding is co micm in these
areas. The soils are generally poorly drained and wetness is characte-
ristic. The depth to high water table is at or near the surface, rang-
ing from zero to one foot.
Marsh (fresh and salt) Association - The large variety of soils in this
group are located in low lying, nearly level areas of the Coastal Plain.
They are very poorly drained and are subject to frequent stream and tidal
overflows. Depth to high water table is usually at or near the surface.
77

Coastal Beach -Dune Sand - The area is comprised of sandy soils that are
excessively drained. The beaches are flooded uaily by tidal action and
contain sand ranging from fine to very coarse with varying amounts of
marine life deposits. The dunes are comprised of the same and range in
height from three to twenty feet. Parallel to the beach, the dunes are
subject to severe erosion by wind and wave action in the absence of vege-
tation. Permeability is rapid for both areas, and depth to high water
table fluctuates with the tide.
R
A
78

ft
(2). SEPTIC TANK PROBLEM AREAS
( a). Introduction
A major factor influencing the health of individuals where
public sewers are not available is the proper disposal of human excreta.
Many diseases, such as dysentery, typhoid, infectious hepatitis, para-
typhoid, and various types of diarrhea are transmitted from one person to
another through the fecal contamination of food and water, largely due
to the improper disposal of human wastes. Flor this reason,. every effort
should be made to prevent such hazards and to dispose of all waste so
that no opportunity will exist for contamination of water or food.
Safe disposal of all human and domestic wastes is necessary
to protect the health of the individual and the community and to prevent
the occurrence of a public nuisance. In a non -urban area such as•Brunswick County
had been until the past ten years, the principal method used to handle such wastes
is the septic tank and filter field. To accomplish satisfactory, sanitary results,
such waste ,Mist be disposed of so that they meet the following criteria:
1. They will not contaminate any drinkage water supply
2. They will not give rise to a public health hazard by
being accessible to insects, rodents, or other possible
carriers which may come into contact with food or
water.
3. They will not give rise to a public health hazard by being
accessible to children.
4. They will.not violate laws or regulations governing water
pollution or sewage disposal.
5. They will not pollute or contaminate the waters of any
bathing beach, shellfish breeding ground, or stream used
for public or domestic water supply purposes, or for rec-
reational purposes.
6: They will not give rise to a nuisance due to odor or un-
sightly appearance.
These criteria can best be met by discharge of domestic sewage to
an adequate public sewerage system. Septic tanks and soil absorption
trenches are generally considered by health authorities as an interim
solution for waste disposal in urban or semi -urban conditions. In other
words, they are used when a public sewage disposal system is non-existent
or not immediately available. However, when the above criteria are met,
and where soil and site conditions are favorable, and where develcpmemt
is of non -urban character, the septic tank system can provide satisfactory
service. Experience has shown that adequate supervision, inspection and
maintenance of all features of the system are required to insure compli-
ance in this respect.
79

( b) The Problem
The problem of malfunctioning septic tank systems is not just
a local problem within Brunswick County but is a statewide problem. All
too often a septic tank system in a coastal county does not function pro-
perly and creates an environmental problem in an otherwise healthful
neighborhood. 54.6% of the County's total land acreage has been judged
to be unsuitable for conventional septic tank systems.* This percentage
does not take into effect the spatial arrangement of development on the
better soils, but it does indicate a large number of soils which cause
septic tank failures. Failure will mean that either improperly treated
sewage is being injected into shallow ground waters of the area, or that.
sewage effluent appears on the ground surface at sane time during the
year to be washed into nearby surface waters with each subsequent rain
storm.
Almost all farms in Brunswick County have a conventional sep-
tic tank and filter field system. Here the availability of large acreage
and the absence of public facilities renders the septic tank.system the
most logical and sound method for sewage disposal, and is generally an
improvement of amenities over the pit privy. These systems may, also be
installed in institutions, buildings, and homes in rural areas with
suitable acreage and permeable soil. Again, in this instance, septic
tank systems may provide an adequate solution.
Problem areas arise within the County when septic tanks are
found in emerging urban or urban areas with small lot sizes, with dis-
turbed or impermeable soils, with seasonally high water tables, and with
associated high rates of water usage in the home. In these circumstances
the conventional septic tank system is not acceptable for sewage disposal.
(c). Natural Causes of Failures
. one of the most common on cause of septic tank failures in Bruns -
County is the installation of septic tank systems in soils which have
seasonally high water tables. Since 1976, with changes in State
Regulations, percolation tests have not been performed except for very
large development proposals. Instead, judgement of analysis is based
upon a site evaluation. Watertables must be at least thirty six inches
below the ground surface before a system is permitted.
Percolation tests have not been performed on individual lots
since 1976, as the State believes they are an invalid means of determining
a site's soil absorption rate. Instead, lot by lot on -site inspections
are performed taking into consideration the following factors:
1. Topography
2. Soil Characteristics:
a. Texture
b. Structure
c. Depth
d. Restrictive Horizons
e. Drainage
*"General Soil auditions in Brunswick County"
80

F
3. Ground Water elevation
4. Depth to impervious strata
Although sanitarians are not soil scientists, they do have a
thorough working knowledge of soils, and can effectively make decisions
concerning. proper design of septic systems, or in many cases, modifica-
tions to the site to allow for proper installation of the systems. In
some instances the sanitarian seek technical assistance from soil scien-
tists, the Soil Conservation Service, and soil maps in making these deci-
sion.
Another cause of failure is from the presence of an impervious
soil layer which reaches a certain saturation point after a rain and re-
tards the vertical movement of water. These layers may be hardpan, clays,
sandpans, or organic stain layers. The unique situation in Brunswick
County is the fact that these impervious layers are scattered in a hapha-
zard fashion and are unpredictable in determining their spatial arrange-
ment. As soil types, sub -soil types, and such factors as ground water
tables vary, different sized lots or different dimension of lots are
necessary in varying situations.
Particularly the organic stain layer is a difficult soil structure
to pin point because of its illusive nature caused by uneven organic decomposi-
ticn. They present a most difficult problem to soil scientists and Health
Department personnel within the County. A third cause of failures are those
numerous instances where septic tanks and their filter fields have over the
years been permitted for developments on inadequately sized lots, both as to
total square footage and as to dimensions of these lots. As there are no
minirmm lot standards set by the County, a countless number of such inadequately
sized lots have been platted and sold. The County Planning Board has often
recommended, as well as the County Health Director, that such a local law be
instituted.' Again, no drainage system has been required in subdivisions, further
compounding this problem.
out -of the County's total land acreage of 558,720 acres; the
following breakdown resulted from the land suitability analysis:
Category Acres o 6f Total
1. Soils with Limitations for
Functional Septic Tank Systems 305,120 54.6%
2. Soils with Limitation for the
adequate Support of Building Founda-
tions 233,520 41.8%
3. Soils Well Suited for Development 247,000 44.3%
4. Soils Well Suited for Agricultural
Production 139,940 25.1%
5. Soils Well suited for Forest
Production 325,200 58.2%,
E)M

(d). Circumstantial Mistakes
It is all to easy to attempt to point the blame for the failure
of septic tanks at individuals such as the builder, the septic tank in-
staller, the Health Department Official, the hone owner, or some other.
State or Local Official, or person. However, the reason Brunswick County
is in such a predicament is because it is growing very fast and'more
demands are placed on the septic tank regulation entities. with this
additional pressure for growth, the following faults are noted:
1. Lots with high water tables which should have never been
approved by the local Department and the soil scientists
were approved, because the lot was inspected during dry
season.
2. Percolation tests which were not done properly because of
limits on time and manpower. Examples of this situation
are not enough percolation test points, and test holes
which were not saturated the day before readings were made.
Most of these shortcuts are used only where work loads in-
crease and result in the improper analysis of the proposed
building lot.
3. If this percolation rate is in error, then the design of
the system is in error also. Usually this resulted in
a waste water absorption system that was too small for the
moist conditions that existed. In addition, some systems
were placed too deep and the drainage lines became flooded
from rising water table. Currently, under State regula-
tions, lines are not placed as deep as they used to be.
4. Small lot size is another variable that restricts the
effectiveness of a septic tank filter field by demanding
smaller absorption field areas so the drainage system can
stay within the boundary of the lot. Minimum lot sizes
and dimensions in Brunswick County would help to alleviate
this cannon problem.
5. Septic tank system installation is a very important busi-
ness to insure a functioning system. It is necessary to
dig to the correct depth, place in the right drain tile
with the the proper grade, on top of the most efficient
filter gravel in the absorption trench, to match the indi-
vidual site needs. Occassionally, one of these important
variables may be miscalculated.
6. Finally, maintenance and proper operation of the finished
septic tank system by the hone owners or occupants is a
most important variable to insure a functioning, "healthy"
system. Too often, the wrong chemicals and objects are
flushed into the tanks and too heavy of an overload is
placed on the capacity of the filter fields to absorb the
waste waters.
m

When waste input exceeds design capacity output, like
in the beach areas during summer visitation, the system be -
canes worthless. Also chemicals and grease may be placed.
into the tank which may kill or overload the digestion
capabilities of the bacteria.
The use of septic tanks filter fields in defining soil suita-
bility takes into consideration a functional properly operating system.
This is a subsurface system of tile or perforated pipe that distributes
effluent from a septic tank into natural soil. The soil material from a
depth of 18 inches to four feet is evaluated. The soil properties con-
sidered are those that effect both absorption of effluent and construction
and operation of the system. Properties that effect absorption are per-
meability, depth to water table and susceptibility to flooding.
The use of bearing capacity, as used in this report relates to
the ability of a. three story residential building to be supported by
foundation footings in an undisturbed soil.
(e) . Controls
.Direct Regulations: This method of controlling the problem of
septic tanks is presently being utilized by the County Sanitarians.
The local health officials guide the installation of a septic tank system
according to State Health Services Ccm ission regulations. There are
many variables involved and it is a very complex system to regulate, since
it requires quite a few steps performed by various individuals. However,
if a septic tank system is allowed on a lot, the following precise se-
quence of actions must take place.
1. An evaluation of the soil and possible percolation tests
must be properly conducted to provide a basis for the size
and design of the system.
2. A workable layout must be drawn up by. an experienced and
competent designer.
3. 'Once the design is drawn, there can be no later changes in
the house layout, or additions to the system, otherwise the
drain field will be too small for the input.
4. There must be no removal or disturbance of the soil during
construction because such disturbances cause compaction
which reduces the permeability of the soil.
5. Installation crews must be able to install the appropriate
system without disturbing the soils and be able to keep
the drain lines level, while carefully following the con-
tour of the lot, and add sufficient gravel in the trenches.
6. There must be no disturbance of the soil after installa-
tion caused by deep gardening, digging holes,adding pave-
ment, etc.
7. The homeowner must understand the functioning of the whole
system and maintain it in the proper working order.
M

Unfortunately, not all of the above actions are followed all
of the time and septic systems fail. It place.-, the local health officials
in an akward position, because they are not able to supervise throughly
all of the steps. This problem arises in Brunswick County because of
large housing demands creating large work loads on limited funding and
manpower in the local health department. Also, as hones or businesses
are sold or rented, new occupants have no way of knowing the capacity
of the system or even where the filter fields are located, so disturban-
ces occur. Many of the new residents of Brunswick County are retired
persons or professional persons associated with various enterprises in
this area of the state, and have their first ever septic tank exposure
here, as they have lived entirely in urban areas providing traditional
public systems.
Many of the septic tank problems could .be alleviated if the
policy of the County to consider the subdivision of land with respect
to soil suitability was more strictly enforced and also if the County
had a minimum lot size.
Public Sewer Extensions: Another method of helping to control
septic tank problems in Brunswick County is through the extension of
public sewage disposal systems. Even though there are a limited number
of public sewage disposal systems in operation throughout the County,
the numbers will greatly increase in the future as urban development in-
creases. As the new urban development increases in both size and inten-
sity, there will be points reached. 'The only feasible alternative is a
public sewer system. Limitation in applying this approach has been the
lack of funding. It is the ultimate solution.
Conclusion: Brunswick County does have a problem in having to
rely upon septic tanks, which is a physical limitation to future develop-
ment. Up to a certain density, and this density is quite low in this
County, the soils are capable of absorbing human waste from onsite
sewage disposal systems. Even though the systems function properly,
there may be detrimental effects on the quality of ground and surface
waters by too rapid filtering action in the coastal sands.

19
c. Sources of Water Supply
Most of Brunswick County is served by individual wells on site.
In this low-lying coastal location, there is a high water table and an
adequate, safe supply has been available for low -density, low -intensity
land uses.
However, as Brunswick County has begun urbanization and indus-
trialization, public water supply service is recognized as a necessity,
to avoid any possible future salt water infiltration of the ground waters.
The County has an existing well field producing water for major
industries and a number of municipalities in the Southeastern section.
This water is fran a large watershed located on the north side of N.C. 211
several miles west of N.C. 133.
However, the County is moving to tapping the Castle Hayne
acquifer either independently or with other local governments in. the
region, to assure an adequate water supply and to avoid mining water with-
in the County. Service is being planned only for areas of the County
that are expected to urbanize.
d. Areas Where Predominant Slopes Exceed 12%
• There are no known areas with slopes as extreme as 12%,
although•there is a ravine on the Cape Fear River which, if surveyed, may
reveal such degree of sloping.
e. Corps of Engineer's Easement
An easement dating from the 1930's has recently cane to light
concerning the Atlantic Intercoastal Waterway. The Corps of Engineers,
U.S. Department of the Army, has a 1,000 foot wide easement within which
this Waterway is located.
Rights of the Corps within the easement include not only the
placement of fill material, access, and maintenance, but also the option
to cut away and. renove the land.
It is known that lots were platted and houses developed with-
in this easement in some of Brunswick County's municipalities.
At this time, the Corps is surveying this easement, and placing
markers. At least one older structure on the mainland within the County's
jurisdiction has been found within this easement, at Brick Landing.
Others may be discovered as the surveying continues.
Privately owned lands within this easement cannot be used for
structures.

2, Fragile Areas
Through the N.C. Coastal Area Management Act, a'body of admin-
istrative law has developed including definitions and controls
for areas of Environmental Ccncern (A. E. C. s )
The types of areas included are:
at Estuarine systems:
Estuarine waters
Coastal wetlands
Public Trust areas
Estuarine shorelines
(1). Coastal Wetlands.. These are the marshes. Brunswick Count--
contains numerous saltwater marshes and brackish marshes along
its rivers and along the Intercoasta.l waterway, It is the
objective of the state to safeguard and perpetuate the biolo-
gical, social, economic and aesthetic value of these marshes
as a natural resource essential to the functioning of the
estuarine system. Accordingly, state administrative law defines
suitable and unsuitable uses.
(2.). Estuarine Waters. State Statute G.S. 113A-113(B) (2) defines
Estuarine Waters as "all the water of the Atlantic ocean within
the boundary of North Carolina and all the waters of the bays,
sounds, rivers, and tributaries thereto seaward of the dividing
line between coastal fishing waters and inland fishing waters,
as set forth in an agreement adopted by the Wildlife Resources
Camission and the Dept. of Natural Resources.and Community Deve-
lopment filed with the Secretary of State, entitled "Boundary Lines
North Carolina Commercial Fishing - Inland fishing areas: revised to
March 1, 1965.". Brunswick County contains such areas.
It is the objective of the state to safeguard and perpetuate
their biological, social, aesthetic and economic values, par-
ticularly as to reproduction and maturation of fish and shell-
fish. Accordingly, State Administrative Law defines suitable
and unsuitable uses.
(3). Public Trust Areas. Somewhat duplicative of the above two
categories, State Administrative Law defines public --trust areas
as all waters of the Atlantic (kean and the lands thereunder
from the mean high water mark to the seaward limit of state juris-
diction. Further, it includes all natural bodies of water sub-
ject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean
high water mark, and all navigable natural bodies of water and
lands thereunder to the mean high water level, and other waters
including artifically created bodies of water to which the pub-
lic has acquired rights. Brunswick County contains such areas.
It is the objective of the state to protect public rights for
navigation and recreation and to preserve and manage these areas
so as to safeguard and perpetuate their biological, economic and
aesthetic value.
M.

Projects which would block or impair existing navigation
channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean
high tide, cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate water
quality standards, or cuase degradation of shellfish waters are
considered incompatible with public areas.
b. Ocean Hazard Areas System
These are natural hazard areas along the Ocean shoreline where
because of their special vulnerability to erosion or other adverse effects
of sand, wind, and water, uncontrolled or incompatible development could
unreasonably endanger life or property. Such areas include beaches,
frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas where there is a substantial
possibility of excessive erosion or flood damage.
It is the objective of the state to provide management policies
and standards for such areas that serve to eliminate unreasonable danger
to life and property and achieve a balance between the financial, safety,
and social factors involved in their development.
The Ocean Hazard Areas system contains the following areas.
(1). Ocean Erodible Area. These are areas in which there exists a
substantial possibility of excessive erosion and significant
shoreline fluctuation.
(2). High Hazard Flood Area. This is the area subject to high velocity
waters in a storm having a one percent chance of being equalled
or exceeded in any given year, as identified as Zone VI-30 on
federal flood insurance rate maps, when such maps are available.
(3). Inlet Hazard Area. These are areas with a substantial possibi-
lity of excessive erosion, located adjacent to inlets..
The state sets use standards for ocean hazard areas by admini-
strative law. They further require erosion control activities, dune es-
tablishment and stabilization, set standards on structural accessways,
and new/substantial construction standards in ocean hazard areas.
There are ocean hazard areas in Brunswick County.
C. Public Water Supplies
The third broad category of A.E.C.s includes small surface
water supply watersheds and public water supply well fields.
(1), Small Surface Water Supply Watersheds
These.are small streams, classified by the N.C. Environmental
Management CaYmission as Class A -II, which means they are aooep-
table to serve as public water supply areas.

Classification of streams and rives is an ongoing process by
the state. When a stream is Class A -II, no ground absorption sewage
disposal systems shall be located within 100 feet of the water, a •
National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit is
required, and the N.C. sedimentation pollution Control Act, of 1973's
standards must be met.
( 2/- Public Water Supply Well Fields
These are areas of well -drained sands that extend downward from
the surface into the shallow ground water supply. The N.C. Dept. of
Human Resources identifies such areas. Where are standards to be met
on any development over such a well field.
d. Fragile Coastal Natural Resource Areas.
This fourth category of A.E.C.s covers areas containing environ-
mental, natural, or cultural resources of more than local significance.
State Administrative Law (15 NCAC 7H.0503) provides a nanination and desig-
nation process in order for any site to be declared this type of A.E.C.
This category contains the following types of areas:
(1). Coastal Areas that Sustain Remnant Species.
These are areas that support native Pla.^.ts or animals determined
to be rare or endangered. The objective is to protect habitat
conditions necessary to the continued survival of threatened
and endangered native plants and animals.
The Division of Parks and Recreation, N.C. Dept. of Natural
Resources and Carrrnmity Development, has provided the following
information on such areas in Brunswick County, fran an ongoining
survey funded by the National Heritage Program.
Brunswick County Natural Areas
1. Orton Pond - Blue Pond - Adjacent International Paper Pond-sink'habi-
tats - Carolina Beach Quad.
a. Orton Pond. Orton Pond and the surrounding uplands provide
breeding habitat for a number of rare species of animals, includ-
ing the anhinga, osprey, fox squirrel, and two federally endan-
gered species, the american alligator and red -cockaded woodpecker.
Also of significance are the mature stands of longleaf pine and
the existence of a number of high quality natural ponds which
contain high species diversity.
b. Blue Pond - Little Blue Pond - Black Pond complex. These ponds
constitute a group of sinks which exist in relatively pristine
condition and which harbor large populations of a state endan-
gered shrub, pondspice, and which contain old -growth stands of
pond cypress. Very few undistrubed examples of these sink ponds
remain in North Carolina.
W.

2. Sand Hill Creek - Millpond area
Primary significance is the presence of breeding anhingas considered to
be threatened in N.C. and federally endangered american alligators.
3. Baldhead Island complex with Battery Island
Baldhead Island hosts one of the largest nesting populations in N.C.
of the federally threatened loggerhead sea turtle, excellent examples
of undisturbed maritime forest including the northernmost stand of
cabbage palmetto and excellent examples of interdunal ponds, marsh,
barrier island dunes and beach. The island is an -important feeding
and breeding ground for many estuarine organisms, herons and egrets
to invertebrates.
Battery Island is the site of the largest and most diverse assemblage
of nesting wading birds in N.C. The island is an outstanding breed-
ing area for thousands of herons ,egrets, and ibishes.
4. Big Cypress Bay and ponds
This site constitutes one of a very few remaining undisturbed lime -
sink complexes containing a number of breeding species rare in the
state, including anhingas, ospreys, american alligators and great
blue herons. The area also contains several old -growth stands of
pond cypress and scattered populations of a state endangered shrub,
pondspice.
5. Sunny Point Limesinks
A_collection of at least 5 sinkponds are habitat for the federally
endangered american alligator and several rare plants.
6. Spring Creek Pond
The pond harbors a rare plant community type of horsetail spikerush-
fragrant waterlily, unknown elsewhere in N.C., and two highly un-
usual black gum "domes" unknown in an undisturbed state anywhere else
in the state.
7. Monks Island, Shallotte Inlet
This island contains the largest known least tern breeding colony in
the state, a species of special concern. Breeding populations of
black skimmers, gull -billed and common terns also present..
8. Bird Island
This island.is a relatively undisturbed barrier island ecosystem.,
This is the last remaining undeveloped barrier island in Brunswick
ant,, .
9.' Piver's Bay bog
This site consists of a relatively undisturbed, inner bay bog commu-
nity containing several rare plants in N.C., including great marshal-
m

lia, venus flytrap, and sweet pitcher plant. most of the bogs in
Brunswick County have been ditched, drainer'_ and converted to agricul
tural and forestry management.
10. Big Island Savanna
This site contains one of the most diverse and significant pine
savannas in the entire state. At least eight plants listed as state
endangered or threatened are present. The savanna ecosystem contains
a number of endemic or near -endemic species; much of the land once
occupied, by this system has been cleared and drained for cannercial'
agriculture and/or siliculture.
11. Green Swamp Sanctuary
The Green Swamp, an expansive wetland system, represents one of the
best remaining examples of extensive poccsin vegetation in N.C.
along with excellent examples of pine savannas, bay forests, and
atlantic white cedar stands. Nine state endangered or threatened
plants and six state endangered or threatened animals occur here
along with at least fourteen species of insectivorous plants. The
extensive wilderness provides excellent habitat for wildlife such as
black bear, alligator, bobcat, and many birds.
12. Bryant Mill Creek
This site contains a mature. stand of beech --died hardwoods, located
in a steep revine near the Cape Fear River. A number of plants more
typical of the mountains and piedmont occur here and also present
are four plants listed on the state endangered and threatened plant
list. This site is the furthest southeast and possibly the closest
to the coast of any mountain disjunct plant ccnm ity in North Caro-
lina.
W

s
Special Brunswick County Natural Areas
( I ) ORTON POND a SURROUNDING UPLANDS
(2) BIG CYPRESS BAY & PONDS
(3) BIG ISLAND SAVANNAH
(4) PIVER'S BAY BOG
90 a

(2). Coastal Complex Natural Areas . These are areas defined as lands
that support native plant and animal carununities and provide
habitat qualities that have remained essentially unchanged by
human activity.
Brunswick County contains many small, scattered swamps that could
be considered in this categroy.
(3). Unique Coastal Geologic Formations. A.E.C. regulations require
any such identifications by the State Geologist. None are known
of in Brunswick County at this time.
(4). Significant Coastal Archaelogical Resources. These are sites;
objects or features evaluated by the N.C. Historical Commission
that have more than local significance to history or prehistory.
The N.C. Historic Preservation 'officer states: "Bn sv;ic3: County
has many archaeological sites, but the ability to provide adequate
protection is severely hampered by the low level of cultural re-
sources inventory."
This official further says "lands in close association to the
Cape Fear River, the Intercoastal Waterway, the Shallotte and
Lockwood Folly Rivers, and the islands are sensitive archaeo-
logical lands. There is a high probability of the presence of
archaeological sites-"
This official further states "The Cape Fear River is known to
contain significant underwater archaelogical resources.". He
further states "Brunswick County has never been systematically
surveyed for archaeological sites."
A professor of archaeology at UNC-W has informed Brunswick
County that there are no Ceremonial Indian mounds, only mitten
(kitchen) mounds.
European man is known to have been associated with Brunswick
County from early times of exploration. Old Brunswick Town
ruins are a late example of this era. Known archaelogical
sites are shown on the map at the end of this section.
(5). Significant Coastal Historic Architectural Resources
The following text includes an inventory and description of the
more significant historic sites found throughout Brunswick County, not
including Southport which has completed a separate inventory. This report
illustrates how the historic sites of Brunswick County fit into early
American history and explains their relationship to previous generations.
Each historic site exists as a point in time along a calendar
of events which illustrates the scientific, cultural, technological,
educational, judicial, social and economical achievements which help to
mold the present lifestyle. Through knowledge of the past we gain better
insight of the present, and increase the appreciation for these unique
elements of our common heritage.
91

Index of Brunswick County' s Major Historic Sites
SITE IACATION
Williams House On S.W. side of S.R.1426, 0.7
Belvedere Plantation
Railroad Hotel
Winnabow Plantation
Clarendon Plantation
Old Town Plantation
Pleasant Oaks Plantation
Orton Plantation
Brunswick Town
Fort Anderson
St Phillips Church
Liberty pond and
Colonial Fort
Battery Lamb and
Saltworks
mi. N.W. of junction with S.R.
1430, Phoenix Vicinity
Private
On west bank of Brunswick
River near junction of U.S.
17 74 76 and River Road
private
On East side of S.R. 1438
at junction with U.S. 17,
Lanvale
Private
On S.W. side of S.R. 1521,
1.5 mi. S.E. of junction
with U.S. 17, Tlinnabovl
private
Between N.C. 133 and Cape
Fear River S. of Junction
with U.S. 17
Private
On N. Bank of Town Creek,
at Cape Fear River
private
At the intersection of N.C.
133 and State Road 1518
private
On East side of S.R. 1529,
across from S.R. 1530, near
Brunswick Town
pirvate
At the end of S.R. 1533,
Orton Vicinity
state
Along the Edge of the River
at Brunswick Town
state
N.C. 133 off U.S. 17, Brunswick
Town State Historic Site
state
On West side of S.R. 1533,
known as Orton Pond, Fort
area is in Sunny Point
private
Old Bunkers within Sunny
Point, Restrictive Zone and
Saltworks near junction of
Walden Creek and Cape Fear
federal
9?

SITE
LOCATION
OWNERSHIP
Prices's Creek Lighthouse
W. Bank of Cape Fear
River on Prices's Creek,
at end of S.R. 1540 Southport
private
The Rocks"
In the Cape Fear River and
Extends from Federal point
through Zeke's Island to
Smith Island Marches.
federal
Quarantine Station
Within the Cape Fear River
1-1 /8 miles northeast of
Southport
federal
Fort Caswell
At the end of N.C. 133 at
Caswell Beach
private
Gauses Taub
500 feet Eastward from S.R.
1154 and South of Jinny
Branch Creek
private
Boundary House
Located near the North and
South Carolina State
Boundary, .4 mile South of
U.S. 17
private
Hickory Hall
Along the Western town limits
of Calabash, South of S.R.
1163
private
Bald Head Lighthouse
In the N.W. corner of Bald -
head Island.
private
Cape Fear
S.E. corner of Baldhead
Lighthouse
private
Complex
93
s
It

It
Historic sites are unique and nonrenewable educational, scien-
tific, associative, or aesthetic resources which owe their importance to
associations with American history archaeology, architecture and culture
of the past. These valuable resources constitute part of the human
environment.
In order to seek to preserve this unique County asset, there
is need for a management program. It is recanTended that the joint
Southport -Brunswick County Historic Preservation Commission renew their
activity to develop the means necessary to protect these important his-
torical resources.
The Williams House
The Williams House at Phoenix is one of the last surviving
country hones of its era in North East Brunswick County. The design and
architectural style of this home lends itself to historical significance
since this building form has been modified since the turn of the century.
Unique features of the home include the separation of the kitchen and
dining roan*frcm the main house, front door design, large number of fire-
places, and its elegant landscaped entrance. Presently the house is un-
occupied.
Belvedere Plantation
This Plantation site is situated nearly opposite the city of
Wilmington on the banks of the Brunswick River and near the junction of
Highway 17 and River Poad. It became the hcme site of two North Carolina
Governors, Benjamin Smith and Daniel Russell.
At one time, the plantation encompassed over 1000 acres of land.
A large brick manor house, carriage house smoke house, barn, overseer
house, and slave quarters were grouped together on the one portion of
the property.
S4

The area has since been subdivided and a road has been laid
where most of the buildings once stood. All that ruins is a ballast
stone building and huge old oak trees.
Battery Lamb and The Confederate Saltworks
Battery Lamb was a Confederate Fort on Reeves Point on the
edge of the Cape Fear River. It was used during the Civil War as pro-
tection for the Wilmington Seaport.
Just below this area on Walden's Creek, a large Confederate
Salt Works for the supply of salt to the soldiers was established. Salt-
water was carried in tanks from New Inlet to the creeks and evaporated by
artificial heat, producing a fine white salt at a small expense. Tt.was
probably demolished by the Federal blockades who fired at all signs of
smoke.
Railroad Hotel
The Railroad Hotel located one quarter mile off U.S. 17 on
state 1438 is one of the more impressive landmarks in the area. It is
a two story wood frame building with a gable roof and a monumented front
portico. It has a diamond shape louvered vent in the gable and two cen-
tral interior chimneys.
The hotel was financed by Dr. E.G. Goodman sometime in the late
1880's as a business venture when there were proposals to link the rail-
road of Southport (Smithville) with Chicago. Because this speculation
failed, the Railroad Hotel only saw limited use with local visitors be-
tween Wilmington and Southport. The railroad Hotel became utilized as a
school. house and at the present it lies idle.
Winnabbw Plantation
Win abow Plantation is located on the Southwest side of State
Road 1521 along the edge of Rices Creek. It was built approximately in
the 1730's and was said to be one of the nicest plantations in the early
settlement days of the Lower Cape Fear Region. This plantation site .
became incorporated into Governor Russell's Plantation a few hundred feet
further South of S.R. 1521.
The Governor Russel Mansion can still be seen at this location
which is in fine repair, illustrating some of the colonial features of
that era.
Clarendon Plantation
Clarendon Plantation is located five miles South of Belville
along Rt. 133 and is one of the few fine old Cape Fear Plantations which
has retained its identity. Clarendon, a 1,000 acre cotton and tobacco
plantation, was named after -Clarendon County which originally extended
from Albermale on the North to Saint Augustine, Florida, on the South.

The powder magazine that is still standing on Clarendon
Plantation is said to be the oldest building in the Carolinas. It is
a square building of distinctive brick work believed to be late 17th
Century because the brick corner bonds and the pantile roof are the same
architectural styles used at both Williamsburg, Virginia and Charleston,
South Carolina.
During the aftermath of the American Revolution, the first
Governor of North Carolina, Benjamin Smith, came into possession of
Clarendon Plantation. Later in 1834 the site was purchased by the Watters
Family who built a two-story antebellum house whim has been moved but
is still in good repair. It is here that the famous author, Inglis Fletcher,
wrote "Lusty Wind for Carolina" (Archives and History, 1975).
Bordering the plantation along the Cape Fear River can be found
one of the most interesting and intriguing time telling devices in
America. It is a 50 foot wide canal said to be dug by the Indians and
oriented so perfectly that the Sumner Solstice sunrise ascends dead center
in the canal, thus telling the Indians that the sun would then start
moving Southward and providing them with the first calendar that was ever
set up in these parts. There is also and unidentified avenue of ruins
and live oaks which leads to an old Indian field where many different
pieces of Indian pottery have been found.
Presently Clarendon is closed to the public.
Old Town Plantation
Old Town Plantation was located on the North baril: of Town Creels
where it meets the Cape Fear River and was one of the oldest, if not the
first, plantation in the Lower Cape Fear Region.
.Artifacts collected by a UNC-W archaeological group around the
old house site included a Hibernia half penny dated 1723, colonial red
clay pipes and white salt -glazed stoneware of the eighteen century.
There is evidence of a mansion house with a central chimney and a four
roan structure with a fireplace in the corner of each man, which is
very similiar to the early eighteenth century Virginia buildings. Logis-
tic analysis of the house site places the mean occupation date about
1723. This site in not open to the general public.
Pleasant Oaks Plantation
The entrance to this beautiful plantation is located at the
junction of Rt. 133 and State Road 1518 and extends back to the Cape Fear
River.
"The Oak" as the plantation was originally named for many years
was particularly distinguished for a grand grove of Oaks that extended
from the antebellum house (which is situated on the junction between the
river and Town Creek) for J� mile to a large artificial lake. This.body
of water was known the "Mill Pond" which supplied motive power for the
Saw Mill and the grist and rice mills.
96

Pleasant Oaks Plantation had one of the most beautiful camellia
gardens in the. nation and at the present tint- acres of azaleas and camel
lias are cultivated on the plantation. Unfortunately, the grounds are
not open for public visitation.
Orton Plantation
Orton Plantation, which is located seventeen miles South
U.S. 17 and just nine miles North of Southport, is gene-
rally recognized as being one of the finest examples of Southcr,-, ante-
bellum architecture, and has been acclaimed as one of the most beautiful
showplaces in the South. The old mansion is not open to the public, but
the beautiful structure is centrally located amid gardens that are open
to the public with many interesting views from points of vantage along
the meandering garden paths. The gardens are especially beautiful in
early April when azaleas and camellias bloom and exhibit Kaleodoscopic
scenes around the stately mansion, under towering live oaks.
Brunswick Town
The colonial town of Brunswick was begun in 1725 by Col. Maurice
Moore of South Carolina as a real estate venture. In the 1730's, Bruns-
wick Town was the seat of New Hanover County and in 1764 it became the
seat of the newly created Brunswick County. Brunswick Town was used as
an early port town on the Cape Fear River where inter -change of goods
between England and the colonist occurred. Once this small village was
established approximately sixty buildings were situated along the banks
of the river.
In 1776, Brunswick was burned by British. troops. Only two or
three families returned after the Revolutionary War, and by 1830 the
Town was totally in ruins.
In 1861, hundreds of tons of soil were placed over many of.the
ruins of the colonial town to establish Fort Anderson. The remaining
ruins of Brunswick Town have been designated as a State Historic Site
and are open to the public.
Fort Anderson
In 1861, hundreds of tons of soil were placed over many of the
ruins of Brunswick Town to establish Fort Anderson. Located on both the
mouth of a river and on a ridge, it was ideally located for defense.
The Fort stretched one mile in length and it was composed of
two batteries, "A" and "B", which possessed five guns each. other gun
emplacements, less impressive than the main batteries, were strewn along
the line of defense. However, the guns were not utilized in the follow-
ing years and North Carolina's 40th Regiment became bored, except for
the practice drills and visitors from nearby areas. (Asbury 1964)
'i
97

•
On February 19, 1865, after severe bombardment, Fort Anderson
fell to the North.
Today the earthwork mounds of the Fort have been naturally
preserved, for the most part, and can be seen at the Old Brunswick Town
Site, which is open to the public
St. Phillips Church
St. Phillips Church, located in Brunswick Town,was constructed
in 1736, making it one of the first churches in North Carolina. In 1754,
construction was begun on a new church building to replace the first
structure, but met rnmierous delays, and was not ccmpleted until 1768.
.When Brunswick Town was burned in 1775, St. Phillips Church
was probably destroyed at that time. Men Confederate Fort Anderson was
built across the ruins at Brunswick Town in 1862, the ruins of the church
were planned as part of the Fort. During the bombardment of Fort Ander-
son in 1865, naval shells struck the church but did little damage. The
Confederate dead from the bombardment,were placed inside its walls where
they were found by the capturing union troops.
At present a restoration project is being coordinated by the
State to help preserve the foundation and walls of this old historical
church. It is open to the public.
A Colonial Fort and Liberty Pond
.. A short distance below Fort Anderson, on a bluff called Howe's
Point are the remains of a Colonial Fort, and behind it the ruins of a
residence in which tradition says was born, in 1730, one of the greatest
heroes of the revolutionary (General Robert Howe). He was the trusted
and honored Lieutenant of Washington. Robert Howe also lived at Kendal
Plantation for a while which is not part of Orton Plantation.
Presently the area is owned by the Federal Government at
Sunny Point. It is not known how much of the site still exists because
the whole area has been modified by the Federal Government. However
Liberty Pond is now known as Orton Pond and presents a beautiful example
of a Historic Natural Landmark. This Pond was also used as the irrigation
source for Orton Plantation's Rice Fields and can be viewed by the public.
Price's Creek Lighthouse
Price's Creek Lighthouse, which is located along the banks of
the Cape Fear River and its junction with the ferry landing, is one of
the oldest range lights still standing in the Cape Fear Region. The
circular brick tower and adjacent dwelling for the light keeper were
both constructed in 1849 to serve the purpose as a range light for new
inlet. There also was a smaller back beacon which sat atop the keeper's
10 dwelling.
♦!

The tract has been restored and preserved.by its present owners,
Pfizer Pharamaceutical Company.
"ThP Rrk-kG
To prevent the Cape Fear River from silting shut from the
opening of the New Inlet, Congress was petitioned to appropriate neces-
sary funds for increasing the depth of water on the Cape Fear Bar and
River. After careful surveys and estimates by the Corps of Engineers,
it was decided to undertake the entire closure of New Inlet under the
direction of Colonel W.P. Craighill. This work was begun in 1875.
A continuous line of mmatresses composed of logs and brushwood
loaded with stone was sunk and laid entirely across New Inlet. This
work was continued from year to year by piling small stone rip -rap on
and over this foundation, building it up to high water, and then finally
covering it with heavy granite stones on its tip and slopes to low water.
The project was completed and saved the deep water port of the. Cme Fear River.
Today it is still standing and can be seen from the ferry that
crosses from Southport to Fort -Fisher.
The Cape Fear Quarantine Station
Prior to building the Cape Fear Quarantine Station, all disin-
fection of vessels took place at the mouth of the Cape Fear by burning
large quantities of sulphur, but the disinfection of crew clothing was
never done properly. There were also no facilities to care for the sick,
or detention areas for suspects; thus, arose the need for a Quarantine .
Station.
In 1893, Congress granted the Marine Hospital Service the
funding of $25,000 to build and equip a Quarantine Station. This new
station was located in the river about 1-1/8 miles Northeast of South-
port. The station was built on a pier 600 feet long, with gangways,
docks, and ballast cribs.
Presently, only the foundations of a few water tanks is left
intact and can be seen when crossing the Cape Fear River on the Ferry.
Fort Caswell
Fort Caswell, which is located at the end of Caswell Beach, has
been for years the principal coast defense of the Cape Fear River. con-
struction started in 1826, but the Fort was not completed until sometime
later.
Fort Caswell had an enclosed pentagonal structure with two rolls
of moated soil mounds used as fortifications. Each mound contained many
small openings through which shall firearms could be discharged easily.
i
m
99

[7
T
On the top of the Fort were enough emplacements for sixty-one
channel bearing guns and situated within the soil fortress were spacious
barracks, officer quarters, store roans and armory areas. In fact, Fort
Caswell was one of the most well built forts in the South.
During the later part of the Civil War, the Fort was destroyed#
not by the Federal fleet, but by the Confederates themselves when they
received word that Fort Fisher had fallen. Before the Ccnfederates aban-
doned the Fort, they blew up all of the major powder magazines and most
of the original Fort Caswell was reduced to ruins.
Towards the latter part of the Nineteenth Century the Fort was
allowed to deteriorate to such an extent that just prior to the Spanish-
American War it was reported in a dilapidated condition. Then came the
Spanish-American War and Fort Caswell was rebuilt with concrete emplace-
ments on which five, eight and twelve inch disappearing rifles were
mounted atop the Southeast corner of the original Fort. Along with
attendant magazines there were spacious wooden barracks and five wooden
dwellings for the officer quarters. Most of these structures are exist-
ing today.
The Fort was actively garrisoned until about 1923, after which
it was declared surplus and all of the remaining armament and material
declared obsolete and sold for scrap. Fort Caswell lay idle until the.
U.S. Navy used it during World War II as a military base to control sub-
marine attacks. It saw limited use during the following years and the
Fort was again declared a surplus site and offered for sale.
From 1949, until the present,Fort Caswell -has been owned by the.
North Carolina Baptist Seaside Assembly and utilized by that organization
as a recreational and religious center for. Baptists of North Carolina.
There is only limited public access to the beautiful, spacious, historic
grounds of the old fort site, which exists as an important part of our
co mlrn heritage.
Bald Head Lighthouse.("Old Baldy")
The first lighthouse on Bald Head Island was constructed in
1796, but due to extensive erosion of the shoreline, was replaced by an
octagonal tower on the North-West corner of the island. This uniquely
shaped tower is now known as "Old Baldy" and is the oldest lighthouse
still standing on the North Carolina shores.
Erosion became a difficult problem for 'Old Baldy" in 1881 and
two years later to prevent the lighthouse from destruction, a stone jetty,
150 feet long ,was authorized for the protection of the foundation of the
tower. This helped control erosion for a while, but in succeeding years
rapid abrasion of the shoreline occurred again. In addition, the Bald
Head Lighthouse was so far inland and was not of sufficient height to
light the dangerous Frying Pan Shoals that a replacement tower (The Cape
Fear Lighthouse Complex) was planned for the Southeast corner of Bald
Head Island. At this time Old Baldy became a fourth -order fixed light
station. The light beacon was then discontinued in 1935 and a radio -
beacon was established on the site in 1941. This beacon was of service
100

during World War II when Fort Caswell, across the river, was used by the
U.S. Navy. Men the new Oak Island Light was -activated on May 15, 1958,
the new station took over the operation of the radio -beacon.
Today "Old Baldy" stands as a beloved reminder of the hard
times in the past. It is a landmark that has withstood many adverse
weather conditions and has served for a century and a half in the lower
Cape Fear area. Carolina Cape Fear Development Corporation has preserved
the site but only limited public access is allowed.
Cape Fear Lighthouse Complex
In 1903, a new lighthouse complex was added to service the
lower Cape Fear area and replaced "Old Baldy" on Bald Head Island. The
new lighthouse complex was located on the South -East corner of Bali
Head Islam and had three keeper's houses. This fourth order lighthouse
was 150 feet high and had a radius of 18.5 miles of light which could
reach out towards the Frying Pan Shoals.
Today the site is owned by Carolina Cape Fear Corporation.
The remains of the site still are exhibited by the keepers' house and
other out buildings, but cannot be seen unless permission is received
Tran the present owners.
Gause's Tomb
An unusual and interesting memorial to a family that was prom-
inent in the life and activities of Brunswick County during the Colonial
Period can still be seen on an old plantation site just five miles from
Shallotte. The brick burial tomb of John Julius Gause (1774-1836) is
located some 500 feet Eastward from State Road No. 1154 and about the
same distance south of the run of Junny's Branch.
The Gause family had large land holdings in Horry County, South
Carolina, and also -scattered around Shallotte and Ocean
Isle. The father of. this Brunswick County Clan was William Gause referred
to in South Carolina as the "InnKeeper" because of his large business
operations. Old William had six sons, two of which moved to Brunswick
County prior to the Revolution when in 1762 they purchased land on
Shallotte Sound. John Gause and William Jr. then became active in local
government and fought in the Revolutionary War. Later William Jr. ser-
ved in the House of Commons from Brunswick County in 1778 and his hone
seem to have been near Gause's Landing.
John Gause, the Revolutionary veteran and brother William Jr.
was also the father of John Julius Gause, the person responsible for
erecting the tomb. In his will, dated May 3, 1836, recorded in Will
Bode B. Page 171, Brunswick County Court House, he authorized the
building of the Gause Taub and tells who shall be buried there.
Presently the Tomb is in fine repair and offers an enchanting
sight to the visitor.
i
101

The Boundary House
The Boundary House which is located South along a dirt road,
4 miles off of U.S. 17 stood astride the State .line prior to 1750.. Only
the chimney remained during the Civil War and it always marked the divid-
ing line between the two early Carolina Provinces. In fact it was a
documented truth that the early boundary line established in the Spring
of 1735 ran right through the center of the Boundary House.
The location of the building had to be determined to properly
survey the State line when it was last surveyed in 1928. At that time,
the surveyors erected a 600 pound granite post inscribed "Boundary House"
to mark the site of Horry County's oldest known building.
Hickory Hall
Hickory Hall, located in Calabash, is typical of rural, middle
class homes for this area of Brunswick County during the past Colonial
Era. Most of the homes of this type have disappeared, especially with-.
in this vicinity, either from fire, age, or natural elements. Hickory
Hall has not been necessarily restored but is has been kept in good
repair throughout its time.
The unique feature of this house is the fact that it was built
over a huge hickory stump that later became used as a table for many
decades. Due to decay, the old stump has been since removed, however the
name of this unique feature still remains.
other architectural features include two chimneys that were a
part of the original house and were built frcm ship ballast stones. The
foundation of the house contains oyster shells which were burned into
limelike substances used in the mortar. Included were five fireplaces
used for cooking and heating,and ceiling and walls consisted of beaded
paneling, possibly imported from England. The original floors were, for
the most part, native long leaf planking, some of which remain to this
day.
The present owners of Hickory Hall reside there and operate
one of Calabash's restaurants.
102

r
e. Areas with Resource Potential.
The local office of the U.S. Soil Conservation Service has
plotted those more productive agricultural lands and forestry lands as
they are shown on the Land Classification Map in this Plan.
Recent news articles have indicated that certain state
officials believe there is a possible mineral resource of peat energy
that could be mined. This needs further exploration.
Two ]mown privately owned wildlife sanctuaries exist. one is
owned by the nature conservancy in the Green Swamp . The other is a
site on McKinzie Creek near N.C. 133, owned by the Sprunt family. This
latter preserve,so the owners inform the County, is subject to removal
of the "preserve" status at any time, since the owners have received
no renumeration in any form for it.
All of the navigable waters of the County are publicly owned.
01
103.

B. OONS^I ITY CAPACITY
1. EXISTING AND PROPOSED FACILITIES
The location of existing and proposed facilities has a fairly
substantial affect on where future growth will occur. By determining the
location of proposed facilities such as water, sewage, and highway improve-
ments, new growth destined to occur in these areas canbe better planned.
The following Facilities Map for Brunswick County illustrates existing
and proposed water lines, sewage service areas, and transportzation faci-
lities. Once this Land Use Plan is adopted, all public service.support
systems need to be reexamined on the basis of this Plan's projections
and adjusted accordingly.
a. Water Facilities
All of the domestic and much of the industrial water procured
and consumed in Brunswick County is extracted from ground water resources.
Several industrial operations located in the northern portions of the
County withdraw water from the Cape Fear River, however at the present
time, no domestic water for human cansumption is taken from surface
supplies. A number of the county's municipalities own and operate water
systems within and immediately adjacent to their corporate boundaries,
and privately owned water systems are operated in two incorporated towns
as well as in various mobile hone parks and other conventional residen-
tial communities. Brunswick County, as a governmental unit, is construct-
ing a water system that will supply limited residential consumers in
unincorporated areas, industry, and will wholesale water to a number of
municipalities.
Six municipalities in Brunswick County own and operate muni-
cipal water systems. They are Bolivia, Shallotte, Southport, Sunset
Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, and Yaupon Beach. Each of these municipal
water systems is of recent construction, and various elements of the
systems including wells, treatment and storage facilities. Distribution
lines are in good condition and capable of supplying. service for a num-
ber of years to came. All of the municipal systems are presently opera-
ting below their design capacities with adequate volumes remaining to
provide service to future development. Several other water systems are
in varying stages of development for the Leland Sanitary District and
the Towns of Boiling Spring Lakes and Calabash. Some of these munici-
palities already buy their water from the County.
In addition to public water systems, there are at least twenty
privately owned and operated water systems with ten or more. connections
in Brunswick County. For the most part, these systems are small scale
operations with low volume water supplies, treatment and storage faci-
lities and distribution systems. These small scale systems generally
serve less than seventy-five connections in conventional residential
developments and mobile hone parks. Many of these private systems are
located in close association to the Cape Fear River and will likely
choose to connect to the proposed County Phase II Water System.
4
104

Based on the 1990 peak week population projection used by the
consultant, the.County system would be capable of supplying the following
quantity to the service area over a 12 week summer season.
45,000 people x gpd/capita = 4,500,000 gpd
*Includes commercial demand
This service projection and the resultant quantity design is
felt to be inadequate for the future needs of the County based on popu-
lation projections used in this plan.
(Source: Preliminary Engineering Report, Brunswick County Water
System Phase II, 1979 Update. Pierson and Whitman, Inc.,
Raleigh. N.C.)
Several problems are often associated with a complete reliance
on ground water supplies. While individual wells may adequately serve
extremely low density residential development using on -site waste water
disposal (septic tanks), in normal residential areas and at locations in
which soils will not permit septic tank operation, private wells prove
inadequate or unsafe. Ground water may also be an adequate source for
low volume municipal and private systems. However, when ground water is
relied upon to provide large volumes of water over extended periods of
time the threat. of salt water intrusion into the acquifer, draq-dawn of
potentially polluted surficial water, or an actual reduction into the
water.producing capacities of the aequifer may occur without any prior
indication.
In all likelihood the county will find it necessary to con-
struct high volume water mains to transport raw water to existing dis-
tribution systems as well as facilities to treat this raw water before
use. The location, capacities or time frame for the construction of
these facilities have yet to be determined. However, the county has
indicated its intent to provide 10 million gallons per day upon ccmple-
tion of the supply system.
The two phase water system currently being constructed by
Brunswick County has been designed for eventual connection with a possi-
ble regional surface water supply system.
As indicated above, the reliability and quality of ground
water supplies over an indefinite period of time are seriously question-
able. The County system being constructed was originally designed to
rely on'ground water resources. Due to demand for water by both residen-
tial and industrial users in Brunswick County, it is essential that the
more permanent (surface) source of water supply be developed as soon as
possible, and the County is rapidly at work towards this objective.
All proposed water lines and facilities on the Facilities Map
correspond to the Brunswick County Water System Phase II project. The
project date of completion is to be 1990. Plans are being developed for
securing an adequate water supply system for anticipated urban parts of
Brunswick County, both for the present and future demands.
10E

The service area for' the proposed Phase II of the Brunswick
County Water System consists of a service corridor roughly paralleling.
the Cape Fear River from a proposed water treatment plant near Leland
until the Phase II line connects to the existing Phase I system on N.C.
Highway 211 near Southport. More specifically, this service corridor is
proposed to extend fram Leland Sanitary District service area along N.C.
Highway 133 until it connects to the existing Phase I service area north
of Southport. Additionally, Phase II lines will interconnect the various
existing municipal systems on the County's southern coast via a series of
waterway and inlet crossings. When completed, the Phase II development
will serve as a water source for the entire Cape Fear River & coastal
development of the County.
Besides serving the beaches, the inland segment.along N.C. 904
between Ocean Isle and Sunset Beach as well as the corridor between Slut-
set Beach and Calabash along S.R. 1164-1163 will have service available
due to the routing of the proposed line at those points, in that evident
emerging urban area.
Because the majority of the Phase II service area is tourist
oriented (coastal beaches), the design of a water system for the County
should be based on seasonal population. A cost estimate has'been pro-
vided to the County by the State and Local Goverru ent Finance Division,
N.C. Dept. of State Treasures, the County will have to underwrite
$8,886,000 for this water system.
b. Sewerage Facilities
The only sewage treatment systems in the County are in South
port and the Carolina shores residential development near Calabash.
Although the Southport system is reaching peak capacity the Carolina
Shores system can adequately serve the additional residential struc-
tures planned for it.
Three proposed sewage service areas have been designated in
Brunswick County. The first proposed sewage lines and facilities area
shown on the.map are designated in accordance with Southwestern Brunswick
County 201 Facilities Plan, 1975. This facilities plan develops a long
range program for solving the wastewater pollution problems for the
Southwestern portion of Brunswick. Project completion is scheduled for
1990. The planning area is composed of the Southwestern portion of
Brunswick County and includes the Towns of Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach
Sunset Beach and Calabash.
At the present time, all homes and commercial establishments
in the area use septic tanks for their wastewater treatment. Due to the
high ground watertable, soil conditions and the projected increase in
population, the risks ecnnected with these septic tanks will increase.
The Southwestern 201 Facilities Plan will utilize a land
application system as the means of effluent disposal. These land appli-
cation sites are not on the Facilities Map.
106

It was estimated in the Plan that the number of people to be
served would total 21,234 in 1990, a total which underestimates the area's
permanent resident and seasonal resident demands.
The second proposed sewage lines and facilities area shown on
the map are designated in accordance with the Southeastern Brunswick
201 Facilities Plan, September 1978. The project planning period is
scheduled to run 20 years, with two 10-year phases. The planning area
is Southeastern Brunswick County which includes Southport, Caswell Beach,
Long Beach, and Yaupon Beach along with urban unincorporated areas. The
City of Southport.is the only area served by a municipal waste water
collection and treatment system within the Facilities Planning area. The .
principal method for disposal of human and domestic wastes in other areas
outside Southport is the standard septic tank and filter field system.
On October 9, 1980, the city of Southport passed resolution
expressing its intent to withdraw from the proposed 201 systems; and try
to work alone in expansion of their system's capacity,. in order to accom-
odate growth.
The wastewater management plan includes the collection and
transmission of wastewater generated within the severed portions of the
planning area to a wastewater treatment plant located northeast near the
Pfizer Chemical Plant, which will utilize oxidation ditch treatment pro-
cess prior to discharging treated wastewater through a diffused outfall
system to the main channel of the Cape Fear River. The purpose of such
a system is to achieve a desired level of service at the lowest practi-
cal cost.
It was estimated on the Plan that the number of units (customers)
to be served by sewers in each area would be a total of 6094 in 1990.
With an average household size of 3.47, this would be about 21, 146 resi-
dents served, with adequate capacity.
The third proposed sewage lines and facilities area shown on.
the map is designated in accordance with the Northern Brunswick County
201 Facilities Plan, presently under the first stages'of development.
The area encompassed is also presently under the first stages of
development. The area encompassed is also known as Leland Sanitary
District. Detailed demographic, environmental, economic, and technical
data is not yet available. However, it is known that the municipalities
of Navassa and Belville will be included in the planning area.
Average cost per household in a typical -urban area for provision
of a public wastewater treatment -system, taking into effect state and local
coitributicns, is about $1,500 by E.P.A. estimate.
107

c. Roads
The road system is inadequate. Present Programmed improvements
by the N.C. Board of Transportation are inadequate to meet current needs.
As has been discussed in previous sections, the islands need
more mainland connections and safer structures (bridges.)
The Southport -Oak Island area steeds a quick exit route to
serve in event of any incident at the C.P. Q Nuclear Generation plant.
U.S. 17 needs four-laning throughout, not just in parts of ,the
County.
U.S. 74-76 needs resurfacing in areas, particularly near Wil-
: mington and towards Columbus County.
N.C. 211 needs sane straightening and four-laning from U.S. 17
to U.S. 17-74.
Ultimately, within the twenty-year projection of this plan,
N.C. 130 will need to be four-laned, as it serves as Charlotte's cauiec-
tor to the Beaches.
A new road is proposed as access for industrial development
that will occur along the eastern side of the County, such road to run
from U.S. 17 southwards to connect at N.C. 133 near Sunny Point.
N.C. 133 betweem U.S. 17-74-76 and Sunny Point is proposed to
be turned into a scenic drive and no heavy traffic volumes or trucks be
permitted on it.
In short, following adoption of this Land Use Plan, it is the
County's intent to ask the N.C. Dept. of Transportation to work with
the County and its municipalities towards a new formally adopted and
recognized major road plan, for use by government at all levels.
M
[M-

0
FACILITIES MAP - WATER
Legend:
&. Water Recharge Area as identified by U.S. Department
f of the Interior, in "Greenswamp", November, 1979.
Existing Water Mains.
Proposed Water Mains.
s Existing Treatment Plant - 6,000,000 gallons per day.
Proposed Treatment Plant - 12,000,000 gallons per day.
...................
Service Area.
108A

A
FACILITIES MAP - WASTE
Legend:
1 Southwest Wastewater Treatment Area as officially delineated
for purposes of "201" studies and systems pl.anning.
2 Southeast Wastewater Treatment Area as officially delineated
for purposes of "201" studies and systems planning.
3 Northern Wastewater Treatment Area as requested for delineation
for purposes of "201" studies and systems planning in 1978 and
.again in 1981. ,
Existing sanitary landfills.

r
2. POPULATION PRQTECIZCNS
a. Introduction
` Population projections help in plan preparation. It is on these
projections that future needs for services and facilities. are based. Not
only are the total number of people important, but also where within the
County they will reside.
Projecting population is a guessing game because the influences
that create the ebb and flow of people is unpredictable, therefore, pro-
jections are made on the assumption that the general conditions at the
time of the projection will remain stable. Projections must be reviewed
often and updated based on conditions at the time of the review.
The population of Brunswick County has already exceeded all
past projections made locally or by the state or by various consultants.
There is no reason to believe this growth will cease and desist.
Contained within this section are the estimates of Brunswick
County's population projections through the year 2000.
b. Population Estimates, 1970- 1980
Population estimates and projections for Brunswick County have
been made by various State and Federal Agencies. It was evident that
many of these projections were invalid because of the known influx of
people after 1970 and through other indicators of population change.
r The N.C. Dept. of Administration has developed population pro-
jections for the years 1985 and 1990. The Cape Fear Council of Govern-
ments has developed a projection for the year 2000. These projections
are thought to be in keeping with the County's current population -and
economic trends.
BRUNSWICK COUNTY POPULATION PROJECTIONS
Year Population
1985 51,200 (1)
1990 64,300 (1)
2000 78,000 (2)
(1) North Carolina Department of Administration, 1980
(2) Cape Fear Council of Governments, 1980
Some Probable Influences on Population Change In Brunswick County
There are some factors that could influence population changes
in Brunswick County in the foreseeable future.
1. Decline in the work force at the Carolina Power and Light
and Pfizer Plants.
109

r
2. Completion of U.S. 17, 74, 76 between the South Carolina State
line and Wilmington providing easier .-ccess. This makes the
the Northwest Township area more desirable for urban develop-
ment.
3. The Carolina Power and Light Generating Plant could be forced
to cease operations and lack of electricity could retard develop-
ment.
.4. Possible location of industry using products of the Pfizer Plant.'
5. Lower out -migration as a result of more job opportunities.
6. Development of the County Phase II Water System will attract
homes and industry along the Cape Fear River area.
7. The apparent end of the downward trend in the birth rate.
8. National trend in earlier retirement age could result in an in-
creasing rate of Retiree in -migration.
9. -National trends to the four -day work week resulting in more
available leisure time could result in greater tourism.
10. Increasing overflow fran the Myrtle Beach areainto the Western.
Coastal Area of the County.
This is by no means a complete list nor is there any way to
fully predict the impact of any of the factors on the list. However,
conditions do exist in Brunswick County that could lead to population
increases equal to or even greater than that of the past five years.
Seasonal Population Projections, 1975-1990
Brunswick County attracts a seasonal population that at peak
time has been estimated at six times as many persons as the permanent
resident population. This seasonal population generates
a tremendous im-
pact on water supplies, waste disposal, the road system,
and waste dis-
posal. Presently, much of the County's estuarine waters
are closed to
shellfishing because of pollution contributed in part to
septic tanks.
The projections do not include "past through" visitors. The.
following chart show projections for both average week and total year.
visitation.
seasonal population projections
Average Week and Year Total , 1975 -1990
Year Average Week
Year Total
1974 33,193
635,583
1975 33,857
648,583
1976 34,534
661,261
1977 37,225
674,486
1978 35,929
687,975
1979 36,648
701,735
1980. 37,381
715,770
1981 38,128
730,085 ,
1982 38,891
744,687
1983 39,699
759,580
1984 40,462
774,772
1985 41,272
790,268
110

Year.
Average Week
Year Total
1986
42,096
806,073
1987
42,096
822,195
1988
43,797
838,639
1989
44,855
855,412
1990
45,752
872,520
Note: The reader is cautioned that studies by the Research Triangle
Institute and others suggest the average seasonal resident (stay
over tourist) population is six times the permanent resident pop-
ulation. In resident population, this means cn the average.seascn-day,
.the populations swells by another 200,000 or so persons, needing
public services.
ESTIMATED DEMAND
The estimated demand is expressed in terms of holding capacity.
This is the maximun population that can safely and economically be sup-
ported by the present and planned facilities.
The holding capacity of a planning district refers to the
ability of the natural and man-made systems of an area to support.the
demands of various land uses. It refers to inherent limits in the
systems beyond which change cannot be absorbed without resulting in in-
stability, degradation or undue cost for services.
Residentially speaking, the holding capacity of a given land
area is the number of dwelling units and persons per household the land
will accommodate to a given tolerance level of services and costs.
The basic elements used in determining holding capacity are
projected population increases, existing and proposed urban water and
sewerage facilities, future planned development, institutional and orga-
nizational constraints, transportation systems, vunerable habitat lands
for development,. energy supplies, and man-made hazard areas.
Holding Capacity determination are as much a matter of subjec-
tive policy to be followed to create public service systems to accommo-
date a specified density/intensity of land, as to any formalae. Changes
in holding capacity may be brought about by technological advances,
economic fluctuations, energy crises, new life style attitudes, and insti
tutional changes, as a few examples. The holding capacity analysis as
part of the CAMA Land Use Plan update process is required to be reviewed
every five years. The holding capacity analysis is based upon current
trends.
a. Water Facilities Capacity
Six municipalities in Brunswick County own and operate munici
pal water systems.. They are Bolivia, Shallotte, Southport, Sunset Beach,.
Ocean Isle Beach, and Yaupon'Beach. Each of these municipal water sys-
tems is of recent construction, and the various elements of the systems
including wells, treatment and storage facilities and distribution lines
are in good condition and capable of supplying service for a number of
years to cane; in most cases beyond the year 2000. Several other water
ill

systems are in varying stages of development for the Leland Sanitary
District and the Towns of Boiling Spring Lakes and Calabash.
In addition to public water systems, there are at least
twenty privately owned and operated water systems with ten or more con-
nections in the County. For the most part, these systems are small scale
operations with low volume water supplies, treatment and storage facili-
ties and distribution systems. These small scale systems generally serve
less than seventy-five connections in conventional residential developments
and mobile hone parks. Many of these private systems are located in the
northern portion of the County and will likely choose to connect to the
proposed County Phase II Water Systems.
The County is in the process of developing a water systan that .
will supply proposed urban areas. The process of developing a water sys-
tem that will supply the system contains a Phase I and a Phase II. The
Capacity and service extent of this system will be reexamined on the basis
.of this Land Use Plan.
The study for the Phase II facilities was based on a peak
week population projection of 45,000 people; a figure felt to be far be-
low estimated demand. The current County population projection for per-
manent population alone is 64,000. Furthermore, supply capacity for the
system was estimated using 100 gpd/capita (including commercial demand),
while the usual State standard is 400 gpd/capita: It is doubtful that
this system will be sufficient to adequately supply the County in 1990.
b. Sewerage Facilities Capacity
The only sewerage treatment systems in the County are in South-
port and the Carolina Shores residential development located near Cala-
bash. Although the Southport system is operating at capacity, the Caro-
lina Shores system can adequately serve the additional residential
structures planned for with the further expansion of the development.
Three proposed sewage service areas have been designated in
Brunswick County. The first, the Southwestern Brunswick County 201 . .
Facilities Plan will service unincorporated urban portions of the south-
western portions of the County and the municipalities of Ocean Isle Beach,
Holden Beach, Sunset Beach, and Calabash. It was estimated in the Plan',
that the number of people to. be served would total 21,234 in 1990;. an
estimate that may fall short of peak populations for that area of the
County in 1990
The Second proposed sewerage system is the Southeastern Bruns-
wick County 201 Facilities Plan. The project has two phases; Phase I
is to be completed by 1990, Phase II by the year 2000. The Plan encom-
passes unincorporated portions of Southeast Brunswick County and includes
the municipalities of Southport, Caswell Beach, Long Beach, and Yaupon
Beach. The present system at Southport is planned for _expansion. Due
to •Federal,, delays, the -gaitheastem project is set back some years.
Southport has indicated intent to withdraw from the Plan and go ah8ad of
their own.
112

The Southeastern Plan estimates that 6094 units could be served
• in 1990. Using the County's average household size of 3.47, this would be
approximately 21,146 residents served, if Southport is not cn the
system might present adequate capacity for the future, as this is a rapidly
growing industrial area.
The third proposed sewage system is the Northern western
Brunswick County 201 Facilities Plan. The area encanpassed by the Plan
is also known as the Leland Sanitary District. Detailed data is not yet
available; however, .it is known that Navassa and Belville will be included
in the Pinning area.. Service capacity nay not be sufficient to meet esti-
mated demands of the planning area to the year 2000, as this is also a
rapidly growing urban area.
At the present time, most of the County is on septic tanks.
Due to factors such as high groundwater table, soil conditions.and in-.
creases in population, risks connected with septic tanks will continue
to increase.
4. Developable Lands
It is nearly impossible to specify the exact amount of develop-
able land in Brunswick County due to the unusually large amount of land in
the County. Total undeveloped and water acreage in the County is 269,195.1-
acres, 48.18 percent of the total County acreage. Additionally, approx-
imately 54.6 percent of the County's soils are not well suited for deve-
lopmnent. While it is impossible to determine from these two percentages.
the amount of developable land in the County, two conclusions can be
suspected. Firstly, that much of existing development is located on
soils not -suitable for development without a sewerage system, and secondly,
that a great deal of the future development in the County will have to
be planned within areas offering water and sewerage facilities. There
is no doubt that Brunswick County contains adequate lands for development
far beyond the year 2000.
1..13

PART K
POLICY DEVELOPMENT
AND
IMPLEMENTATION

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
CITIZEN QUESTIONNAIRE
The County sought by many means to involve residents and land
owners in the planning process. Local meetings by'County officials .vAth
residents were held. These meetings fostered public participation in
the identification of local problems and issues and in the review of the
land use plan and its policy statements. Efforts to inform residents and
create awareness of local planning activities and issues were made in the
local weekly newspapers. All planning decisions, concerns, and meetings
were reported on. First publicized workshops were in November, 1979 and
continued at intervals throughout the plan development process.
Also, as a convenience to the residents having questions, con-
cerns, and ideas about land use planning for Brunswick County, a "dial -
a planner" service was in operation and publicized from February, 1980
to June to talk directly with a county planner. A survey, a questionnaire
to residents, sought opinions and attitudes on issues regarding local land
use'and developnent,growth, service provisions, and current problems.
The questionnaire was run in local newspapers, including THE
BRUNSWICK BEACON, THE FREE PRESS, and THE STATE PORT PILOT. It was re-
quested that citizens answer the questionnaire and send it to the County
Planning Department. i�esponse was sparee; only 20 were returned out of
a County with over 35,000 permanent residents.
Publicly announced presentations of the Plan at various
stages as it appeared and was worked upon, to the Planning Board and to
the Board of County Commissioners, were given a great deal of publicity;
through newspapers, radio and TV stations. There was next to no response._
Then staff of the County Planning Department conducted a "pub-
lic hearing" in June, 1980, at which 70 persons were present. Various
views were expressed, with major concerns being both -pro and con on the
amount, location, intensity, and type of urban areas indicated. (Urban
translates "Transition" in the C.A.M.A. terminology, as will be explained
further in this Plan).
Presentations and discussion opportunities before the Planning
Board and before the Board of County Commissioners were, afforded through
October 15, 1980.
Frem October 23, through October 30, 1980 six additional, well -
announced Public workshops were held, one in each of the Townships. Sane
of these were well attended, others were not. These workshops were per-
sonally conducted ty County Commissioners and Planning Board members.
The Mayor, Town Clerks, administrators and City Managers of the thirteen
municipalities in the County were sent specific notice of the Plan develop-
ment,•general intent and directions of growth and type of growth advocated
by the Plan, and requested to provide input. One responded.
114

4
Further, 130 known organizations in the County receiv personal
letters fran the Chairman of the Planning Board, pointing cut tm unpor-
tance and intent of this Plan, and requesting they familarize themselves
with it and speak out on it.
Further, final public contributions in the Plan development
process were accepted up through 1Q a:m., February 10, 1981.
MAJOR PROBLEMS FACING BRUNSWICK OOUNTY
As a result.of the 20 questicnnaire responses, a series of
concern ("problems") emerged, reported below.
1. Underemployment - Low Salaries
2. Unemployment
3. Poor Government System (Factions, dishonesty, do rot no needs
of poor)
4. Public Education
5. ,coastal Development (Uncontrolled/unplanned)
6. Lack of Recreational Facilities and Events
7. Transportation (lack of road maintenance and inadequate system)
8. Water Supply (pollution, high water tables)
9. Sewage Treat,emt
10. crime
11. Expensive Energy Sources
12. Taxes
13. Housing
14. Apathy Toward Progress
'15. Preservation of Historic Sites and Places
16. CPQ Nuclear Power Plant
17. Environmental Hazards of Oil Refinery
18. Free Boat Ramps and Boat Access
19. Manner and location of future urban areas
20. Amount of Industry
21. Type of Industry
22. Location of Industry
Brunswick County Characteristic - Desirable and Undesirable
The County's scenic areas, coastline and beaches were suggested
as the primary attractions to Brunswick County. The climate, and large
expanse of available land were also major contributing factors. Less
frequently mentioned characteristics included: Number of small towns, low
tax rate, good development potential, lack of pollution, access to beaches,
wildlife areas, and relaxed life style.
As for undesirable characteristics in the County, these 20 citizens
listed a wide variety of items. The most undesirable characteristics
listed were poverty and unemployment, followed closely by drugs and-alco-,
hol. Lack of planning and land use control was a very frequent response,
as was school system. Maw citizens viewed the lack of a good road sys-
tem as undesirable. Same environmental conditions were also listed--un-
kept beaches, poor drainage, litter, the CP&L nuclear plant, a proposed �.
oil refinery, and poor pest control. Again, "poor government".was noted
as an undesirable characteristic.
115

t
Citizens response as to what might make Brunswick County a more
desirable place to live was that the County should encourage more urban
growth. Industrial growth was specifically. noted as a factor to make the
County more desirable.
Lacking Services and Facilities
The citizen participation process brought out concern for
more recreation, water and sewer facilities, improved educational system,
and better road network. Other needed services and facilities noted. in-
cluded the following:
1. zoning
2. Litter Control
3. Scenic Improvements along Highways
4. Cultural Activities
5. Bicycle Paths
6. Public Bath Houses on Beaches
7. Boat Ramps and Access at Beach
8.. Nursing Homes
9. Better.Roads
10. Restoration of Historic Sites
11. More retail stores and services.
Growth and Development
The later citizen participation process brought out' a concersus of
opinion that the better agricultural lands and the forestry/wild life
lands not in the path of urban developments should be preserved for such
use. It brought out a consensus of opinion that other rural areas not in
the path of urban development should be encouraged to remain "status quo".
There was a general concensus that the plans and goals expressed
by many of the beach communities are correct, and that former. plans for
a major throughfare directly linking the islands was obsolete and should
be discarded.
There was a concensus of opinion that the amount of.land and
type of urban growth projected in relation to the beaches, the Inter -
Coastal Waterway, and Lockwood Folly and Shallote Rivers was correct.
There was a consensus of opinion that the present road network
was inadequate and significant improvements needed, as suggested in the
Plan. There was a concensus on the relief road proposed from Southport
along the mainland to pass the County Airport and thence near Lockwood
Folly River by existing state road back to N.C. 211, and to ;a need. for
another bridge somewhere toward the western part of Oak Island, and to.
new bridges to some of the other islands.
There was a consensus over the identification of c;ammunities.
There was a concensus over the identification for Conservation
of Nature Conservancy lands in the "Green Swamp", of the Bald Head Island
groupings except the ConTunity, and of Bird Island and its lesser. sur-
rounding islands at the South Carolina border.
116

There was a concensus that urban arP;s should have water and
sewer. Means for payment, for such systems resulted in various conflict-
ing proposals and there was no citizen resolution, other than as much as
possible they should be funded by state and federal grants, and then by
newcomers to the County rather than established citizenry.
There was a concensus it is premature to visualize any residen-
tial areas of other than low -density residential character.
Areas where there was an equal split of opinion through this
public participation process were over the question of how much of the
lands associated with the Cape Fear River between Columbus County and
Southport should be indicated for urban development, and although there
was general agreement on showing large areas in this sector for mixed
use and law -density residential development, there was a split opinion
on industry, running from the extremes of none to 100% of this area.
There was general agreement some port -related industry would
be necessary in this sector, but disagreement on how much.
Suggestions ranged from advocation all lands related to the
Cape Fear River be shown for industry, to no lands being so .shown.
others advocated the only areas in the County where industry
should be permitted were in the remote Waccamaw area, and around Cala-
bash at the South Carolina State line.
Still others advocated development of an "industrial corridor" r
along U.S. 17, rather than industry in other areas of the County.
In three townships, there was a unanimous voice for industria-
lization of lands associated with the Cape Fear River, in relation to
the port and to meeting the energy needs of the people of North Carolina.
In the other three Townships, there was split opinion on this matter.
Little public interest emerged as to need for helping meet
housing needs of persons and families or low and moderate * Indeed,
weny t«or
instead, state mts.re made against asuch program. ( housing
was expressed as a problem, and in general the concensus was that mobile
homes were inevitable but should be permitted only in established mobile
home developments and on farms.
In summary, during the latter stages of this Plan development,
it was possible to induce citizen participation to the degree it helped
the Planning Baord and the Board of County Commissioners in their judge-
ments and decisions.
117

It
B. POLICY STATEMENTS
The Brunswick Board of County Commissioners by their adoption
of the Land Use Plan have adopted the following policies for dealing -with
land planning issues which will affect the community within the next ten
years. These policies establish a systematic basis by which proposed
developments will be judged. If a proposed development would violate the
intent of these policies, action to prevent its construction as to cor-
rect those factors not responding to this plan will be taken by local,
state and hopefully by federal government agencies.
These policies will be used by local officials in their deci-
sion making process.
1. Resource Protecticm
Brunswick County will support and enforce through its CAMA
permitting capacity the State Policies and permitted uses in the Areas
of Environmental Concern (AEC's). The State Policy Statements for AEC's
offer protection for the County's fragile and significant environmental
resources with the CAMA permitting procedures. In accordance with those
policies set for in subchapter 7H of the State CAMA regulations, the
County adapts the following policies concerning AEC's in its jurisdiction.
a. The Estuarine System. In recognition of the enormous economic,
social, and biological values the estuarine system has for North. Carolina,
the County will. promote conservation and management of the estuarine sys-
tem as a whole, which includes the individual AEC's: coastal wetlands,
estuarine waters, public trust areas, and estuarine shorelines.
The management objective for the system shall be to give highest
priority to the protection and coordinated management of all the elements
as an interrelated group of AEC's, so as to safeguard and perpetuate their
biological, social, economic, and aesthetic values, and to minimize -the
likelihood of significant loss of private property and public. resources.
In general, permitted land uses in the coastal wetlands,
estuarine waters, and public trust areas shall be those which are water
'dependent. Examples of such uses include: storage platforms, utility
easements, docks, boat ramps, dredging, bridges, and bridge approaches,.
revetments, bulkheads, culverts, underground facilities, overhead trans-
portation facilities, possible transportation tunnels, groins, naviga-
tional aids, mooring pilings, navigational channels, simple access
channels, and drainage ditches.
Land uses that are not water dependent shall not be permitted
cn coastal wetlands and public trust areas. Examples of uses that are
not water dependent may include: restaurants, residences, apartments,
motels, hotels,..trailer parks and factories.
r
Specific policies regarding the individual AEC's of the estuarine
system are stated below. In every instance the particular location, use,
and design characteristics shall be in accord with the general use stan-
dards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and public trust areas as
stated in subchapter 7H of the State CAMA regulations.
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(1) Coastal Wetlands. Activities in the coastal wetland areas
shall be restricted to those which do not significantly affect the
unique and delicate balance of this resource. Suitable land uses
include those giving highest priority to the protection and manage-
ment of coastal wetlands, so as to safeguard and perpetuate their
biological, social, economic, and aesthetic values to establish a
coordinated management system capable of conserving and utilizing
coastal wetlands as a natural resource essential to the functioning
of theentire estuarine system. Highest priority of use shall be
allocated to the conservation of existing coastal wetlands. Sec-
ond priority shall be given to those rises that require water access
and cannot function elsewhere.
Acceptable land uses may include utility easements, fishing piers,
and docks. Unacceptable uses may include but not be limited to
restaurants, businesses, residences, apartments, motels, hotels,
parking lots, private roads, and highways.
(2) Estuarine Waters. In recognition of the importance of estua-
rine waters for the.fisheries and related industries as well as aes-
thetics, recreation, and education, the County shall promote the
conservation and quality of this resource. Activities in the estua-
rine water areas shall be restricted to those which do not perma-
nently or significantly affect the function, cleanliness, salinity,
and circulation of estuarine waters. Suitable land/water uses
include those giving highest priority to the conservation and mana-
gement of these areas so as to safeguard cued perpetuate their bio-
olgical, social, and economic values and to establish a coordinated
management system capable of conserving and utilizing estuarine.
waters in order to maximize their benefits to :ion and the estuarine
system. Highest priority of use shall be allocated to the conserva-
tion of estuarine waters and its vital components. Second priority
shall be given to uses that require water access and cannot function -
elsewhere.
Appropriate uses may include simple access channels, structures
which prevent erosion, navigation channels, boat docks, marinas,
piers, and mooring pilings.
The County, in recognition of the shellfish areas pollution problem
which closes these areas to harvesting, supports the construction of
the Southeastern, Southwestern, and Northeastern 201 Facilities. Plans.
The County will also support projects in estuarine water areas which
aim to increase the productivity of these waters. Such projects in-
clude oyster reseeding programs and inlet channeling and dredging
operations for the purpose of increasing the flushing action to
tidal movement.
(3) Public Trust Areas. In recognition of certain land and water
areas in which the public has certain established rights and.which
also support valuable camercial and sports fisheries, have aesthe-
tic value, and are resources for economic development: the Ccimty
shall protect the rights and promote the conservation and manage-
ment of public trust areas. Suitable land/water uses include those
which protect public rights for navigation and recreation and those
119

which preserve and manage the public trust areas in order to safe -
guar and perpetuate their biological, economic, social, and aesthe-
tic value. e.g., dredging, bu]kheading and jettying.
In the absence of overriding public benefit, any use which signifi-
cantly interfers with the public right of navigation or other public
trust rights which apply in the area shall not be allowed. Projects
which would directly or indirectly block or impair existing naviga-
tion channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below
mean high tide, cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate
water quality standards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters,
shall,.in general, not be allowed.
Uses that may be allowed in public trust areas shall not be detri-
mental to the public trust rights and biological and physical func-
tions: Examples of such uses include the development of navigatio-
nal channels or drainage ditches, the use of bulkheads to prevent
erosion,the building of piers, docks, or marinas.
(4) Estuarine Shoreline. CAMA defines the estuarine shoreline in
Brunswick County as areas extending 75 feet landward of the mean
high water line of the estuarine waters. Brunswick County recognizes:
a. the close association between estuarine shorelines and adjacent
estuarine waters, b. the influence of shorelines development
on the quality of estuarine life, and c. the damaging process of
shorefront erosion and flooding to which the estuarine shoreline is
subject.
Shoreline development has profound affect on adjacent estuarine
waters. Effluent fran poorly placed or functioning septic systems
can pollute shellfish areas . In recognition of this fact, the County
discourages the use of estuarine shoreline areas for residential pur-
pones when there is a substantial chance of pollutions occurring.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers controls a 1,000 foot easement
'surrounding the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIM) for the place-'
ment of fill material, access, maintenance, and cutting away and
removing land. Brunswick County supports the placement of dredge
spoil in the easement only in those areas specified by the apprcpri-
ate local government. However, the County supports the concern of
its island municipalities that the Corps not be over excessive in
limiting development of the privately owned lots which this ease-
ment covers in those municipalities.
Suitable land uses are those compatible with both the dynamic nature
of estuarine shorelines and the values of the estuarine system.
Residential, recreational commercial, governmental, and industrial -
land uses are all appropriate types of use along the estuarine shore-
line provided that:
a. A substantial chance of pollution occurring from the develop-
ment does not exist.
120

b. Natural barriers to erosion are preserved and not substantially
weakened or eliminated;
c. The construction of impervious surfaces and areas not allowing
natural drainage is limited to only that necessary for develop -
meet;
d. Standards of the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Control
Act 1973 are met;
e. Development does not have a significant adverse impact on estua-
rine resources;
f. Development does not significantly interfere with existing pub-
lic rights of access to, or use of, navigable waters or public
resources;
g. No major public facility shall be prrmitted.if such facility is
likely to require extraordinaxy public expenditures for main-
tenance and continued use, unless it can be shown that the pub-
lic purpose served by the facility outweighs the required pub-
lic expenditures for construction, maintenance, and continued
use;
h. In those instances where ground absorption swage disposal sys-
term may legally be placed less than 100' frcm the mean high
water mark of any waters, such systems shall be permitted only
if they meet criteria specified in suhchapter 7H .0909 of the
State Guidelines for Areas of Environmental Concern; and
i. Developr-ent shall not cause major or irreversible dama7e to valua-
ble, documented historic architectural or archaeological resources.
b.Ocean Hazard Areas. In recognition of the critical nature of
Ocean hazard areas due to their special vulnerability to erosion and
dynamic processes and their possible danger to life and property
because of natural forces, the County supports the State Policies
for Ocean Hazard Areas .in Subchapter 7H of the State CAMA Regulations.
The Ocean Hazard Area designation for the County includes the AEC's
of ocean erodible areas, high hazard flood areas, and inlet'hazard
areas. Their significance and characteristics are described in this
plan under Fragile Areas.
Suitable land uses in Ocean Hazard Areas generally are those which
eliminate unreasonable danger to life and property and which achieve
a balance between the financial, safety, and social factors involved .
in hazard area development. Ocean shoreline erosion control activi-
ties and dune establishment/stabilization are acceptable types of
land uses. Residential, camrpercial, and recreational land uses are
permissible in ocean hazard areas provided that
1.. Development is set back a minimum of 30 thres.the average
annual erosion rate fran the frontal dune or first line of vege-
tation.
121

2. Development does not involve the significant removal or relo-
cation of frontal dune sand or vegetation thereon.
3. Mobile homes are not located within high hazard flood areas
unless they are within mobile home parks existing as of June _1,
1979.
4. Development is consistent with mi.nimun lot size and set back
requirements established by local regulations.
5. Development implements means and methods to mitigate or minimize
adverse impacts of the project.
6. Development of growth- including public facilities such as
sewers, waterlines, roads, bridges, and erosion control measures
is constructed only in cases where:
a.. National or State interests and public benefits are
clearly overriding factors,
b. facilities would not exacerbate existing hazards or damage
natural buffers,
c. Facilities would be reasonably safe from flood and erosion
related damage,
d. Facilities do not promote growth and development in ocean
'hazard areas.
7. Prior to the issuance of any permit for development in the
ocean hazard AFC's, there shall be a written acknowledgement
from the applicant that the applicant is aware of the -risks
associated with development in this hazardous area.
8. Brunswick County, recognizing that erosion along the beaches
caused many problems, supports beach rencurishment projects that
would allow approved suitable spoils to be taken from Intra-
coastal Waterway dredging to be placed on designated areas on
the islands.
9. The County, recognizing that inlet migration is a natural on-
going process, discourages permanent stabilization of Inlet
Hazard Areas.
c. Natural and Cultural Resource Areas. Uncontrolled or.incom-.
patible development may result in major or irreversible damage
to fragile coastal resource areas which contain environmental,
natural, or cultural resources of more than local significance.
In recognition of this the County will seek to protect such
natural systems or cultural resources; scientific, educational.,
or associative values; and aesthetic qualities.
122

Individual AEC's included in this general category are: Coastal
complex natural areas, coastal areas that sustain remnant species,.
unique coastal geologic formatiois,significant coastal architec-
tural resources. Their description and significance is found in
this plan under Fragile Areas.
In general, these resources are noted to be valuable. educational,
scientific, and aesthetic resources that cannot be duplicated.
They may be important components in a natural system or in the
broad patterns of history. Their importance serves to distin-
guish the designated areas as significant in relation to the
coastal landscape and historical architectural and archaeolog-
ical remains in the coastal zone.
In accordance with policies stated in subchapter 7H of the State
CAMA regulations, the County will support the following actions
regarding these irreplaceable resources:
(1), Protection of unique habitat conditions that are necessary to
the continued survival of threatened and endangered native plants
andanimals and to minimize land use impacts that might jeopar-
dize these conditions.
(2) , Protection of the features of a designated coastal complex nat-
ural area in order to safeguard its biological relationships,
educational and scientific values, and aesthetic qualities.
Specific objectives for each of these functions shall be related
to the following policy statements either singly or in Mmbinatior_:
(a) To protect the natural conditions of the sites that
.function as key or unique ocmponents of coastal systems.
The interactions of various life forums are the foremost
concern and include sites that are necessary for the ccnr
pletioi of life cycles, areas that function as links to
other wildlife areas (wildlife corridors) , and localities
were the links between biological and physical envircm tints
are most fragile.
(b) . To protect the identified scientific and educational
values and to ensure that the site will be accessible
for related study purposes.
(c). To protect the values of the designated coastal complex
natural area as expressed by the local government and
citizency. These values should be related to the edu-
cational and aesthetic qualities of the feature.
4
123

(3). Conservation of coastal archaeological resources of more than
local significance to history or prehistory that constitute im-
portant scientific sites, or are valuable educational, associa-
tive, or aesthetic resources. Specific objectives for each of
these functions shall be related to the following policy state-
ments either singly or in combination:
(a). To conserve significant archaeological resources, including
their spatial and structural context and characteristics
through on -site preservation or scientific study..
(b). Tb ensure that the designated archaeological resource, or
the information contained therin, be preserved for and be
accessible to the scientific and educational communities
for related study purposes.
(c). To protect the values of the designated archaeological re-.
source as expressed by the local government and citizenry;
these values should be related to the educational, associa-
tive or aesthetic qualities of the resource.
(4), Development may be permitted in designated fragile coastal natural
or cultural resource areas provided that:
(a). The proposed design and location will cause no major or irrever-
sible damage to the stated values of a particular resource. one or
more of the following values must be considered depending upon
the stated significance of the resource:
I. Development shall preserve the values of the individual
resource as it functions as a critical component of a nat-
ural system.
II. Development shall not adversely affect the values of the
resources as'a unique scientific, associative, or educa-
tional resource.
III.Development shall be consistent with the aesthetic values
of a resource as identified by the local government and
citizenry.
r
124

(b), No reasonable alternative sites are available outside the
designated AEC.
(c) . Reasonable mitigation measures have been considered and inoorpo-
rated into any development plan. These measures shall include
consultation with recognized authorities and with the Coastal
Resources Canmission.
(d). The project will be of equal or greater public benefit than those
benefits lost or damaged through development.
2. PHYSICAL ODNSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT
The County adopts the following policies regarding physical constraints
to developments.
a. Septic Tank Suitability
In conformity with state health regulations, growth and develop-
ment will be discouraged in areas where septic tanks will not func-
tion and sewer services are not to be available within a ten -year -
period.
b. Drainage
Growth and development will be discouraged where poor drainage .exists
unless corrective measures are taken. Corrective measures such as
ditches or structures being on stilts will be required if construc-
tion is to be in areas of poor drainage or seasonal high water. r
Because Brunswick County lies on the low coastal plain of the East
coast, seasonal flooding and poor drainage sometimes results.
Flooding can cause substantial harm to property and life. In order
to minimize this occurrence , Brunswick County will discourage deve-
lopnent in areas of poor drainage or seasonal highwater.
only development that cannot be placed in more suitable
location may be developed in these areas. Examples of permitted
uses in these areas are agriculture, tree farming, very low density
residential use, golf courses and other recreational uses, and
elevated mixed use or industrial use. If urban use is to be deve-
loped in an area of poor drainage or seasonal highwater, special
requirements may be necessary. These requirements include the cut-
ting of drainage ditches and placing of structure on stilts.
c. Bearing Capacity
Growth and development will be discouraged in areas where soils
will not support the weight of proposed structures.
Development may be constructed if corrective measures for stabiliz-
ing building foundations are incorporated into the developent design.
125

d. Dcisting and Potential Mineral Production Areas
Brunswick County has little known mineral deposits. As far as is.
known, only sand, gravel and coquina rock have been mined in Bruns-
wick County. The only known existing mining operation is a small
coquina operation near Calabash. It appears existing operations
pose no policy issue. The County recognizes that were significant
deposits discovered, such as peat, it would be to the socio-eamcnic
interests of the citizens of the County to encourage their extrac-
tion.
e. Off -road vehicles
Brunswick County has very little dune or beach area under its juris-
diction. 'These areas are of prime concern in regard to off -road
vehicle policy. The only sand dune/beach areas are on Bald Head
Island, which is inaccessible by automobile at this time. The re-
maining dune/beach areas are locally regulated. These are Sunset
Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, bong Beach, Yaupon Beach,
Caswell Beach, and Bird Island in Sunset Beach's extraterritorial
jurisdiction. Off -road vehicles are discouraged on dunes and beaches
within the jurisdiction of the county.
f. Finger Canals
Future development of finger canal type residential development in
general shall be prohibited unless they are designed for continuous,
even at low tide, water circulation so that no dead-end waters are
created, and as long as no sensitive areas such as marshlands are
disturbed, and there shall be no septic tanks but as a minimum, a
community wastewater treatment system designed and certified as to
operational features and permanence, meeting all state and federal
requirements for such systems. The value of and desire for water-
front lots is recognized and finger canal developments can help
meet this need, as long as the lands involved are on the mainland on
open bodies of water such as the Intercoastal Waterway and the rivers,
and such lands can be brought to elevations adequate for development,
with concrete bullheads with deadmen ties along all points of such
canals. Further, in platting any such, development, the lands in
any such canals or waterways are not to be dedicated to the public
nor will the County accept any responsibility over them. Instead,
they shall be shown on the plat or by articles to permanently
accompany the plat that they are in the joint ownership of all abut-
ting lots, and that the owners of these.lots assume full responsi-
bility for their safe maintenance, particularly as to avoid silting
and assure designed water flows are continuing, and that public
rights to navigation within the middle, deeper portion of such ca-
nals is to be respected. Swash channels as large culverted areas
at the ends of all proposed canals shall connect them to each other
for cleansing actions.
126

3. Resource Production and Management
a. Importance of Agriculture, Forestry,Mining,
richariac ana Aarreat-innal Raannrrac_
The most productive agricultural and forestry lands were identified
by the local offic& of the U.S. Soil Conservation Service and are
shown as such on the Land Classification Map.
Mining is covered under 2.d. above.
Fisheries as a canmercial industry has decreased over the years but
could possibly be resurrected with sufficient state and federal aisle,
first to combat whatever the causes of pollution may be, and Secondly
for some form of inane supplement for this very poorly paying means .
of making a living. Most all commercial fishermen in Brunswick
County have to take second jobs as well as having spouses work full
time, in order to make a minimal, subsistence -level living.
Fisheries as a recreational industry continues to expand and is a
secondary but important component of the growing tourist industry of
Brunswick County.
Brunswick County offers many diverse recreational resources, from
municipal and County parks, to cultural events, arts festivals,
parades, many localized festivals, cruises, sAmTdng and sunbathing.,
birdwatching, tennis and golf, hiking, fishing, and hunting. These
recreational resources and opportunities are continuiously expanding.
and diversifying.
Productive Agricultural Lands
Brunswick County recognizes the role of agriculture in its economy
and supports measures to assure that farmers have necessary supports
to remain in operation, and supports statewide measures to protect
the prime agricultural lands.
nnrmornial Fnract T.nnAc
Brunswick County recognizes the role the forest Industry has played
in its economy. It supports maintenance of cammercial forests,. and
their diversification if possible, particularly into possible energy -
production activities.
.
.127

This Plan recognizes those better forestry lands and suggests that
such lands as shown on the Land Classification Map not be converted
to other use, unless they may be prime agricultural lands simply for
the moment in forests.
Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
Brunswick County recognizes the historical role commercial fisheries
has played, and the role today of recreational fisheries.
Brunswick* County supports steps by state and federal government,
supplanted by local steps such as regulation, to revive the ccmmmer-
cial fisheries. The Shellfish Action Plan currently under study/
preparation by state and federal officials is anticipated to point
out the causes and contributors to pullution of shellfish waters.
The County. supports the formulation of this Plan and will work with
state and federal governments to seek corrective measures to elimi-
nate such pollution.
Brunswick County supports the recreational fisheries and will.work'
with those tourist interests in the County for further enhancement
of such opportunity.
4. PROVISION OF SERVICES FOR DEVELOPMENT
a. Public Water Supply
Brunswick County encourages growth to occur in those areas having
existing or planned urban facilities, especially water and sewer.
The County will work to secure sources of water for urban, residen-
tial, commercial and industrial uses.
Water is necessary for all forms of development. It -is the County's
responsibility to secure water for a public water supply. The cost
of securing this supply whether it be ground or surface -water will
be borne by the users. Grants will be sought to help finance the
development of water sources where possible. User charges will be
the main means of financing when grants or tax issue are unavailable.
The County will promote public water systems for urban areas. Pub-
lic water systems provide safer water and in some circumstances,
more cost efficient water than do individual wells. Public water
systems are not feasible for very low density areas. Miere the
population density has reached the point where the installation of
water lines is not an unreasonable cost in relation to the number
of people served, connection to the public water system will be required.
Connection to the public water systems will also be encouraged
where health problems or salt water intrusion is occurring in pri-
vate .wells, but only in urban areas.

The County carmits itself to providing major trunk lines throughout
the County where public water is feasible and needed. Minor lines
and individual connections will be done at the user or property
owners expense. Developers of new subdivisions will be encouraged
to install or assume payment for water lines for that time when
they can be connected to the public system.
b. Public Sewerage Facilities
The County will support the construction of sewerage treatment faci-
lities for urban areas.
Poorly functioning septic tanks threaten to pollute the County's
estuarine and coastal waters, as well as drinking water supplies.
To avoid possible water pollution problems in the future, Brunswick
County will work to provide sewerage treatment facilities in urban
and emerging urban areas.
The County intends .to finance these facilities through grants,
taxation, and special assessment -bond floatings. Any future deve-
lopment that will substantially harm or pollute estuarine or coastal
waters using septic systems will not be permitted. If the developer
will provide a sewerage collection and treatment system, the deve-
lopment may be permitted.
c. Solid Waste Disposal
The County will seek to always retain adequate sites for landfill
and solid waste disposal.
The County recognizes its role as the provider of solid waste dis-
posal service for the County's residential and cam-ercial develop -
meet. In order to carry out this role, adequate means of final
disposition will be available. This may take the form of incinera-
tion, resource recovery, or landfills. Since the County is presently
using landfills as it means of solid waste disposal and will do so
in the foreseeable future, adequate landfill needs. to be retained at
all times.
It is the policy of Brunswick County to provide landfill equal to the
20-year need of the projected Brunswick County population.
The County will seek to improve garbage collection systems. The
County recognizes its role as the provider of garbage collection
service in the unincorporated areas of the County. It is the policy
of Brunswick County to provide this service in a cost efficient,
safe and sanitary manner.
d. Rescue Squad and Fire Protection
Brunswick County will recognize the majority of the services pro-
vided by for fire and rescue squads as necessary services.
t
129

W
In a large sparcely populated County like Brunswick County, it is
prohibitively expensive to provide fire protection and rescue ser-
vices with paid professionals throughout the County. Brunswick
" County believes it has the responsibility to help provide these
services. Therefore, the County contributes funds to volunteer fire
and rescue squads. Also the County helps coordinate these organi-
zations through its civil preparedness program.
e. Public School Facilities
Improvement of the public school facilities will be encouraged. As
the County urbanizes and industrializes, the County recognizes the
public school system together with Brunswick Technical Institute
will have to be ready for immediate training of residents so that
new jobs created are available to present County residents, regard-
less of the type of business or industry that settles in the County.
f. Transportation
The County will work with the state and federal governments in pre-
paring a major Road Plan to meet needs of their rapidly growing,
urbanizing area, as long as such planning is based on this Land
Use Plan,
The County will encourage private transportation companies to
operate within the County.
5. GRC)VM1 PATTERNS
"a. Compact Growth
Brunswick County will follow a "Compact Growth Policy" to encourage
urban development only in those areas of the County indicated for
such urban development in this Land Use Plan.
b. Conflicting Land Uses
Spatial separation of absolutely conflicting land uses will be
encouraged but more importantly, adverse characteristics of land
uses will be required to be minimized as to impacts on surrounding
lands. In declaring this Policy, the County recognizes that "Good
industry makes good neighbors".
c. Housing
Brunswick County will seek to provide low income persons with safe,
decent, and sanitary housing. Brunswick County vigorously will
seek to obtain all possible housing and neighborhood improvements
and upgrading for low and moderate income persons and families.
130

The County airport is a significant positive feature and the County
will seek to have it improved and expanded. Further, the County will
seek to protect it by airport zoning.
e. Industrial Types and Locations.
Brunswick County will support and promote socially, physically, and
economically environmentally sound manufacturing and other industrial
enterprise. Types of industry particularly favored include:
(1), Agriculture - related, such as food processing, canning,
etc., anywhere within better agricultural land areas..
(2). Forestry - related, such as wood chips into energy,
anywhere within better forestry land areas.
(3). Marine - related, such as boat manufacture, port activi-
ties, fish and shell -fish processing, canning, etc.
(4). Large port -related industries to meet the needs .of the
people of North Carolina, including their energy needs.
(5). Major industries in other stretches of U.S. 74-76 and
along U.S. 17 offering other than low -paying jobs, and
particularly along U.S. 17, which is and will remain basi-
cally rural in character, where public water and sewer ser-
vices will not be planned, providing their own services and
utilities.
The citizens of Brunswick County believe that there is a place for
most types of development in the County provided that proper and
adequate measures are incorporated into the design, construction,
and operation of the development to eliminate substantial negative
impacts of the development on neighboring uses of. land and the envir-
onment. Existing development and industry must be conserved and
protected. New development will be encouraged and provided with the -
necessary public services. In order to bring about this policy
objective, Brunswick County adopts the following policies in regard
to economic development:
a. Inds
Brunswick County will continue to encourage desirable industrial
development and encourage favorable climate, network transportation,
utilities, banking and support services for existing and new indus-•
try, with qualification outlined in 5.e. above.
The County will encourage any existing industries which are causing
air pollution to cease polluting.
The County will work to reduce hazards -potentials possessed by cer-
tain industry which poses substantial health hazards.
The County will encourage its tourist industry.
y
131

.
If an industry which has been shown to be a probable envirornantal
or. health hazard can prove corrective measures have been incorporated
into the design, construction and operation of the facility to elimi-
nate the substantial hazards, then it may locate within the County.
The specific site of the proposed facility must be one which. will not
cause undue interference with or reduce the quality of existing
neighboring land uses. In assessing whether or not an industry
should be permitted to locate within Brunswick County, consideration
will be given to the economic impact of the proposed facility.
Projects and developments which require state or federal permits,
licenses, or funds must meet this policy objective.
As designated on the Land Classification Map, major industiial
development in Brunswick County has been located, and will continue
to be located,along the northeastern corridor of the County and
along the Cape Fear River, where it will be oriented to port and water
facilities. Criteria for industrial siting is as follows:
1. Proximity to existing and proposed water and sewerage
facilities.
2. Proximity to existing rail lines and roads
3. Soil suitability
4. Avoidance of conflict with adjacent.land uses
5. Consideration for environmentally fragile areas
b. Energy facility siting and development, including
pipelines and off -shore impacts.
Brunswick County recognizes due to its unique location
and attributes, that it offers one of the two areas in North .
Carolina for location of major new import facilities for
various forms of fossil -fuel energy.
Brunswick County has sought the position of its forestry
industry as to creation of energy from its product or by-
products, and has been informed there is no such potential
envisioned at this time.
Brunswick County presently houses one of the few nuclear
electricity generating plants in North Carolina.
Brunswick County presently houses such energy facility as
Exxon's Oil Pipeline.
Brunswick County pledges to support industry requiring its
location and facilities for energy facility siting and develop
ment, including pipelines and possible off -shore energy
60 facilities, as long as such facilities meet state and federal
environmental protection laws and standards.
The Land Classification_ Map envisions land and water area
associated.with the Cape Fear River for such siting and pipe-
lines.
132

c. Oil Refinery Impacts
A.
An Appendix to this Plan discusses oil refineries. One has proposed
to locate in Brunswick County. one exists immediately across the Oounty
line in Wilmington.
Brunswick County supports an oil refinery to locate in Brunswick
County, in accordance with this Plan and in association with indus-
trial areas and conservation industrial -access areas as identified
on the Land Classification map, as long as all state and federal
environmental laws and requirements are met.
In establishing this Policy, Brunswick County recognizes an oil
industry will contribute to the economic and social progress of the
County and State. Further, Brunswick County recognizes that if state
and federal environmental laws and Standards are met, there will be•
insignificant degradation of water, land and air resources.
d. Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment
Brunswick County encourages maintenance, deepening and widening of
the Cape Fear River ship channel.
Brunswick County encourages maintenance of an adequate, safe boat-
ing maneuverability in the inlet channels to its rivers.
Brunswick County encourages maintenance of the Intercoastal Water-
way -
Brunswick County recognizes that beach nourishment is an unskilled
art or science, and that there is a widespread opinion that if
nourishment accretion occurs at one point, there will inevitably
be erosion'at some other point. Brunswick County urges local, state
and federal government to be extremely cautious in artificial beach
nourishment, as possibly adversely interferring with normal occurren-
ces of nature. However, Brunswick County recognizes that in extreme
situations such as that rapidly developing in the Caswell Beach area of
Oak Island, that were the forces of nature to continue, a significant
number of hones, the Coast Guard Station, and the Baptist Assembly.
Grounds could well be physically cut off by a new inlet near the
golf club, and it would appear more prudent to have artificial beach
nourishment than to undergo the expenses of bridges, underwater
utilities, etc.
Brunswick County supports keeping structures out of the 1000 foot
wide easement of the Corps of Engineers, but suggests any existing.
structures be recognized and protected.
e. Economic and Community Development and archaeological,
Architectural historic and. r•Tildlife Pscurces
It is the policy of Brunswick County that good industry makes good
neighbors, and that there is no reason that archaeological,
architectural historic, and wildlife resources of the County would
be impaired by development visualized by this Plan.
133

Y
Brunswick County supports enhancement of all of these resources -
economic, social and physical. Brunswick County calls upon develop-
ment interests to work closely with the state and federal govern-
Tmnts in protection and enhancement of archaeological, architectu-
rally historic and wildlife resources, and in turn calls on state
and federal governments to recognize these are not conflicting,
incompatible land uses, but can indeed enhance each other by care
in design and operation.
f. Carrying Capacity - Possible Plan Adjustments
As Brunswick County causes Plans to be prepared or refined for
various components of that public services system considered nec-
essary to support the development shown in this Plan, the County
pledges that if circumstances occur that preclude the possibility
of provision of an adequate public support system, particularly
water and sewer, that is will then cause changes as maybe neces-
sary to this Plan, and forward such changes to the N.C..Coastal
Resources Commission for their necessary action.
7. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Brunswick County realizes an important part of any Planning program
is citizen involvement. In order to provide for this public parti-
cipation, the County adopts the following public involvement policy.
The County will encourage its citizens to become involved in the
land use planning process.
• All land use plans and updates will be done with public as well
as.local government participation. Citizen and local government
participation in the land use planning process wll be .provided.
C.. POLICY -IMPLEMENTATION
in order to carry out the above listed policies, specific strategies
are needed. Strategies are specific tools such as systems of tax-
ation, public expenditures, regulations and ordinances. These tools can be used to promote the policies of the County.
Goals, objectives, and strategies must be realistic in ter s.of
the context in which they must operate. To be appropriate, they
must be .politically viable and enforceable. The'following is a list
of goals, objectives and strategies for Brunswick County.
Each problem or issue that has been identified is presented in a
framework of goal, objective and strategy statement.
Definitions:
GOAL: The desired end toward which effort is directed.
OBJECTIVE: Specific intermediate milestone or component ends that
must be attained along the way to achieve a goal..
134

STRATEGY: A tool, policy or other specific means such as regula-
tion, ordinance or capital expenditures which will help
fulfill the objective.
GOAL 1. The County will seek to improve park and/or recreational oppor-
tunities for all citizens.
CBJECTIVE A: The County will help in the provision of parks and
recreational facilities.
Strategies:
1. The County wi11 seek federal,state and private grants to fund
land acguisiticn and park develt.
2. The County will conduct an adequate recreation program and main-
tain recreation facilities.
3. The Cbunty will seek to utilize school facilities to provide.
recreational opportunity.
OBJECTIVE B: The, County will encourage municipalities within the
County to provide recreational programs and facilities
for their residents.
Strategy:
1. Whereever possible, the County will cooperate with municipali-
ties to seek funding for park and/or recreational projects.
OBJECTIVE C: The County will encourage private recreational facili-
ties.
Strategies:
1. Land use regulations should not prohibit the location of private
recreational facilities where they will not negatively effect
neighboring uses, and where there is adequate public support
services.
2. The County will continue to advertise, itself as a location for
tourist and recreational activities.
OBJECTIVE D: The County will maintain and improve its recreational
resources.
Stategies:
1. The County will seek to enhance natural scenic areas.
2. The County will seek to reduce pollution of coastal and fresh
water through improved and expanded treatmeat facilities and
other programs once the contributors to such pollution are
defined.
•d
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135

GOAL 2. The County will seek to improve its public school facilities
and the quality of this system's product.
GOAL 3. The County will seek to eliminate pollution of its fresh and
coastal waters.
OBJECTIVE A: The County will seek to reduce the pollution from non
functioning septic tanks and.other causes.
Strategies:
1. Promote sewerage treatment facilities.
2. Use land use regulations and enforce state requirements so as to
prohibit development in areas of poor soil and no sewers.
OBJECTIVE B: Determine the causes of pollution of shellfish areas.
Strategy:
1. Provide assistance to state and federal agencies toward revers-
ing the causes of such pollution, once they are known.
OBJECTIVE C: The County will seek to provide an adequate sewage
system for urban areas. It will aid in the estab-
lishment of 201 sewerage facilities where they are
needed.
Strategies:
1. The County will cooperate with the municipalities to promote
sewerage treatment facilities.
2.. The County will maintain its role as lead agency in 201 faci-
lity planning.
GOAL, 4. The County will seek to maintain and improve the quality of its
OBJECTIVE A: The County will seek to prohibit industry which would
materially reduce the quality of the air.
OBJECTIVE B: The County will work with the state and.federal gov-
ernments in their programs.
GOAL 5. The County will seek to improve the .solid waste -disposal system.
OBJECTIVE A: The County will assure that adequate and safe dispo-
sal sites are available.
Strategy:
1. The County will option or buy enough landfill area to assure
that there is adequate roar for -future waste burial.
136.

OBJECTIVE B: The County will improve its garbage collection system.
Strategies:
1. The County will study routing for truck pickups and transfer
stations.
2. The County will design, redevelop, and if necessary,. relocate
dumpster sites to make then more efficient, cleaner and
attractive.
GOAL 6.. The County will seek to reduce the loss of prime agricultural
land to other uses.
OBJECTIVE A: The County will discourage the use of pri.ne agricul-
tural land for other uses.
Strategies:.
1. The County will not provide such land with urban services such
as sewer and water.
2. The County will encourage the state to accept this Land Use
Plan and not issue any of the many forms of development permits
required by the state that would be in conflict with the cbjec-
tive.
GOAL 7. The County will seek to supply water to urban areas of the County.
OBJECTIVE A: The County will promote the development of a public
water system.
Strategy
1. The County will seek federal and state funding for the water .
supply system.
GOAL 8: The County will minimize the problems of poor drainage.
OBJECTIVE A: The County will seek to reduce development in areas
of poor drainage unless adequate drainage is assured.
Strategies:
1.. Through land use regulations, the County will discourage deve-
lcpment in such areas except to standards for adequate drainage.
2. The County will adopt stringent requirements for any development.
in these areas such as housing on stilts or drainage ditches to
be cut and maintained.
w
s
137

GOAL 9. The'County will seek a better road system.
OBJECTIVE A: The County will work the state and federal govern-
ment on a major road plan based on this Plan, and
then on its implementation.
Strategy:
1. The County will ask the State to begin working with the County
on such plans.
OBJECTIVE B. The County will encourage private mass transit, such
as buses, taxis and shared ride taxis to operate in
the County.
GOAL 10. The County will discourage problems fran land uses.
OBJECTIVE A: The County will discourage location of land use
activities which would damage neighboring land uses.
Strategy:
1. The County will prepare and adopt a County -wide zoning ordinance.
OWMIVE B: The County will attempt to reduce existing conflicts
in these. uses of land.
Strategies:
1. .The County will investigate the possibilities of environmental
and health hazards in the County.
2. If dangers do exist, the County will institute court action,
if appropriate, to correct the situation.
3. The County will expand its emergency and evacuation program'in
order to respond to a nuclear accident.
OBJECTIVE C: The County will discourage mixing of residential and
camx�xcial land uses and mixing of single family and
mobile homes.
Strategy:
1.. Adopt a zoning ordinance.
GOAL 11. The County will encourage provision to every County resident of
decent and sanitary housing.
OBJECTIVE A: The County will provide urban services to areas pro-
posed to be urban.
y
138

GOAL 12. The County will seek to preserve historic sites.
OBJECTIVE A. The County will seek means to protect Fort Caswell -
fran destruction and to improve its condition..
Strategies:
1.. Investigate the possibility of the state or federal government
purchasing Fort Caswell.
2. Work out arrangements with the Baptist Assembly for the Fort's
reconstruction and use for public purpose.
OBJECTIVE B. Encourage private use of grants from.federal, state
and private agencies to finance preservation of his-
toric sites and structures.
Strategy
1. Encourage use of state and federal grant money to purchase his-
toric sites and structures.
GOAL 13. The County will seek to maintain citizen involvement in land
use.planning.
OBJECTIVE A. The County will continue programs for citizens parti-
cipation in land use planning. .
Strategy:
1. Public meetings and workshops will be held as needed.
OBJECTIVE B: The County will use and implement its Land Use Plan.
Strategies:
1. The County Commissioners hereby adopt this updated,Land Use Plan,
as a guide in the decision making process.
2. The Plan will be used as a basis to prepare a zoning ordinance.
GOAL 14. The County will work to increase ccnm unication and coepera-
tion among County and municipal officials and decision makers.
.OBJECTIVE A. The County will pranote increased .intergovernmental
coordination concerning issues of concern to all
government bodies in the County.
Strategy:
1. The County will seek an informal gathering of such officials
on a regularly scheduled basis, to discuss County -wide issues of
concern.
V
139

PART 1V
LAND
CLASSIFICATION

A. Purpose
C.A.M.A. Guidelines require that each city, town, and county located
in the twenty county coastal area develop a land classification map class
r ifying all of the land within a given jurisdiction into one of five
classes. Criteria for the allocation of land into these categories are
explicitly set forth in the.State Guidelines.
The N.C. Coastal Resources Ccmnission has stated that the State will
utilize this band Classification Map to determine whether projects and
development which requires government license, permits or funds will be'
permitted. If the proposed project is inconsistent with the land class-
ification at its proposed location, the permit, license, funds, etc. will
be denied.
B. Land Classes
The land classification system includes five broad classes, same of
which have been further subdivided to better classify existing develop-
ment in the County. The five general land classes are developed, tran-
sition, community, rural, and conservation.
The inclusion of a land area into a land classification category
does not dictate the type of land use that will be allowed in a partic-
ular location. Several of the classes provide for and are designed to
encourage a variety of land uses.
Although, as indicated above, the specific requirements of the land
classification system are set forth at the State level, each jurisdiction's,
land classification map is developed locally and adopted by the local
governing body prior to submission for required approval by the N.C.
Coastal Resources CaTmission.
The Land Classifications and their subcategories are defined as
follows:
1. Developed
The purpose of the developed class is to provide for continued in-
tensive development and redevelopment of existing urban areas. To be
classified developed, the area should have a minimum density of 500
dwellings per square mile or 2000 people per square mile provided with
usual public services including at least water, sewer, recreational
facilities, police, and fire protection. The developed class is divided
into two types: Developed Mixed Use and Developed Industrial.
a. Developed mixed use areas are those with a full range of muni-
cipal services, yet are more suitable for a wide variety of
development ranging fran residential to industrial.
b. Developed Industrial specifically includes the land owned by
existing major public or private industries operating in the
County.
140

A
2. Transition
The purpose of the transition class is to provide for future inten-
sive urban development within the ensuing ten years on lands that are
most suitable and that will be scheduled for provision of necessary pub-
lic utilities and services. The transition lands also provide for addi-
tional growth when additional lands in the developed class are not avail-
able or when they are severely limited for development.
The developed transition classes should be the only lands under
active consideration by the County or municipality for intensive urban
development requiring urban services. The area within these classes is
where detailed local land use and public investment planning may occur.
state and federal expenditures on projects associated with urban deve-
lopment (water, sewer, urban street systems, etc.) will be guided to
these areas. The transition class is divided into three types of use:
Transition Low Density/ Residential/ Historic Use, Transition Mixed Use,
and Transition Industrial.
a. Transition Low Density/'Residential/Historic-Use. Large areas
of Brunswick County on the mainland side of the Intereoastal Waterway and
along rivers are rapidly emerging or are encouraged to develop as urban.'
in character. These lands often have unique, special historic or scenic
areas in them. These areas often have streams, marshlands or flood.prcne
lands within them. These lands are encouraged for low -density residential
development, generally of not less than an acre to the lot, with specific
guidelines and regulations to protect and enhance historic, scenic and y
natural environment sensitive areas such as streams, marshes and flood
prone lands. These lands are to be required to provide or tie onto
public water and sewer systems when such systems become available:
b. Transition mined Use includes those areas provided with partial
municipal services, yet more suitable for a wide range of development
including residential, cc m ercial, recreational, office, and institutio-
nal uses.
p� Transition Industrial are those areas where partial or full
municipal services are planned or currently exist and where the additio-
nal needs of industry can be met. These needs may include major roads,
railroads, water access, and large amounts of available acreage.
3 .CaamnAty
The purpose of the eanmmity class is to provide for clustered land
development to help meet housing, shopping, employment, and public ser-
vice needs within the rural areas of the County
.Lands to be classified camunity are those areas within the rural
areas of Planning jurisdictions characterized by a shall grouping of
mixed land uses, (residences,. general store, church, school, etc.), and
which are suitable and appropriate for small clusters of rural develop-
ment not requiring municipal sewer service.
J
141

ri
4. Rural
The purpose of the Rural class is to provide for agriculture,
forest management, mineral extraction, public and private recreational
areas, and other low intensity uses. Residences may be located within
"rural" areas where urban services are not required and .where natural
resources will not permanently be impaired. The Rural class is divided
into three types of uses: Rural Residential, Rural Productive, and
Rural Industrial.
-a. Rural Residential is intended as a subcategory in the Rural Class in
which urban residential type development would not be allowed.
.b. Rural Forestry/Wild Life recognizes those areas in such use and ad-
vocates their preservation for such use. This category recognizes and
encourages internal industrial operations based upon forestry products.
c. Rural Agriculture recognizes those better agricultural lands as
they havo been identified by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service, and ad-
vocate their preservation for such use. Internal industrial operations
such as food processing or canning plants are recognized and encouraged
in such agricultural areas.
5. Conservation
The purpose of the Conservation Class is to provide for effective
long-term management of significantly limited or irreplaceable areas.
This management may be needed because of its, natural, cultural, recrea-
tional, productive or scenic values.
a.. The Conservation Class is applied to lands that contain: major
wetlands; essentially undeveloped shorelands that are unique, fragile,
or hazardous for development; necessary wildlife habitat or areas that
have a high probability for providing necessary habitat condition; and
forest lands that are undeveloped and will remain undeveloped for ccm er-
cial purposes.
b.. Conservation- Industrial Access Class is located along the Cape
Fear and Brunswick Rivers. There are several existing industrial'opera-
tions as well as a large area classified as Transition -Industrial. In
order that access to the Rivers can be available to industry for trans-
portation, process water, etc. the conservation -Industrial Access Class
is proposed. It is intended that these land and water areas can be used
for such facilities as loading, storage and transportation access, but
only if built up over the marshlands and other environmentally sensitive
areas, and that they can have necessary rail and other transportation!
services. In development, sufficient light and air must be provided to
penetrate to the marshlands for their protection.as well as that of
marine life. Pipelines are also to be permitted where they do not
adversly affect the marshgrass and marine life. Lands in this category
would otherwise be classified Conservation, and likewise lands in the
proposed category would be maintained in their natural state with only
low intensity access -egress uses.
142

C. RELATIONSHIP OF LAND CLASSIFICATION !uO M POLICY STATEMENTS
The entire Coastal Area Management Act planning process has been
oriented towards citizen participation and has continually provided
mechanisms for citizen input into the preparation'of the land classifi
cation map. The primary input has taken the form of future growth
policies and identification of existing problems and issues and desired
future services, all of which were recommended by citizens in the County
and ultimately adopted by the County Commissioners. Thz public has also
been encouraged to comment on draft land classification proposals, and
many of these comments have been incorporated in the final adopted land
classification map appearing in this document.
The land classification map is a graphic representation of the.
policy statements formulated and adopted through the citizen participa-
tion process and conferences with local officials.
The 1980 Land Classification Map differs from the 1975 Map mainly in
the areas of revised classification category criteria, and desired develop-
ment patterns.
In regard to development patterns, the classification of land reflects
existing development patterns as well as the desired.pattern of develop-
ment as reflected in the policy statements.
A policy of campact growth and growth along existing and proposed
service corridors has been adopted by the County Commissioners pursuant,
to recommendations resulting from public participation activities.
Land classification directly addresses the policy objective as illustrated'
on the land classification map.
The Developed classification reflects the policy of the County to
guide continuing intensive development into areas presently provided with
public*services such as water & sewer. Lands in agreement. with the above
policy for Developed areas were classified as one of these subclasses
according to the existing growth policies of the County.
The Transition classification reflects the policy of the County to
accommodate development in those areas with existing or planned urban
facilities within the next ten years, and those areas consistent .with the
County growth policies. Lands in agreement with the above policy for -
Transition areas were classified according to whether planned outlying
development was to be strictly residential or a variety of land uses such
as residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, and recreational.
The Rural classification reflects the policy of the County towards
the protection of low intensity resource potential lands as well as the
policy to provide land for low density residential development where urban
services are neither provided nor planned. This policy is further suppor-
ted by the CountyyIs policy of campact growth and because it is very in-
efficient and uneconomical to provide facilities to spar.-2ly populated
outlying areas.
143

The Conservation classification reflects the policy of the County
to protect and provide effective long teen management for significantly,
limited or irreplaceable lands. Within the Conservation classification
are Areas of Envirormntal Concern, cemetaries, man-made hazard areas,
and complex natural areas. For a listing of the Areas of Environmental
Concern applicable to the County, see Fragile Areas section of this
plan. Areas of Environmental Concern are necessarily protected in accor-
dance with the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act of 1974; the
County supports all Coastal Area Management Act regulations. All such
development must meet C.A.M.A. permitting specifications.
f
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144

i
0
APPENDIX I
Response to Directive of the North Carolina Office of Coastal
Management that this Plan address oil refineries and their economic,
social, water and air quality impacts, and more specifically, address
a, proposal by the Brunswick Energy Company for construction of an oil
refinery, including specifically projected population increase, im-.
pact on housing and public services, question of whether there
would be loss of other prospective industries as a result of this
specific development, impact on transportation network, and possible
hazards.
A. The Background
The United States had developed an energy -dependent life
style requiring at this time the importation of approximately cne-
third of the entire Earth 's production of 'its oil resource, to ser-
vice approximately six percent of the Earth's population. (Source:
The Limits to Growth, Rockfeller University for the Club of Rome.)
North. Carolina has developed a life style even more dependent
upon oil and its by-products than most of the other states. Since
the turn of the century,. North Carolina has followed deliberate, de-
clared policy to have a dispersed populace and dispersed eoonamic structure.
People have been encouraged to "stay on the farm but work
in town" since 1900,
Most states followed a growth concentration Policy, in recog-
nition it was the only feasible economic and resource -saving means of
providing the more and more amenities demanded by an incrementally
accelerating consumptive life style, even to the point of resettlement
programs to remove excess persons from rural areas in recognition of
carrying capacity limitations. North Carolina has headed in the
opposite direction, ever since the earliest impacts of such Policy
by being the first state to have full coverage inrural. electrification
and one of the few states, even today, assuming resp.onsibi'lity for the
rural non -traffic oriented roads for the entire state, and seeking -
to provide such extremely low -density rural road network with roads
meeting the standards of -the much more heavily used city streets.
As late as 1977, the State was still advocating to counties that in
their "201", wastewater planning activities, that they try to provide
such service to entire county areas, not just to areas to be.urban,
regardless of the impossibility of combined local,..state and national
financial resources to ever be able to fund such extensive, expensive*
systems.

ii
This Policy direction of the State of North Carolina is as
strong today as it was eighty years ago. 11he Balanced Growth and
Economic Development Policy Act of 1979 calls for growth dispersal
throughout.the State, rather than compact, energy -efficient growth.
Accordingly, not only the United States, but in particular
North Carolina, are dependent today for maintenance of this deliberate-
ly developed life style on the importation of other nations' basic.
oil resources.
Although in recent years there have been movements at the
national and state levels to seek other means of enezgy provision,
exemplified right here in Brunswick County by Carolina Power and Light
Company's nuclear electric generating plant, and by the North Carolina
Alternative Energy Commission created in June,. 1980,
it is estimated by some of the outstanding economists in this Nation
and in .the world that forces in motion in the economy would require
at least a twenty year period before there could be a true start at
reduction of this dependency upon oil and its by-products.
At the same tune that the National and State governments have
begun steps toward alternative energy -sources, they have declared
intent to continue unique life style of this Nation, particularly the
personal. automobile dependency. in 1979, the North Carolina General
Assembly reaffirmed earlier policy towards utmost development of the
Port of North Carolina to meet the needs of the entire State, and
of assuring an adequate energy supply to sustain this.State's unique
dispersed, extremely energy -dependent life style.
It is on this basis, therefore, that both the State and private
enterprise are seeking.to place additional energy -related activities
at the Port.
One oil refinery is already located -.at the Port of North Caro-
lina at Wilmington, within the city limits of that city, immediately
and directly across from Brunswick County, separated from this County
by -approximately 1,,600 feet. No known adverse impacts from that oil
refinery have been brought -to light, although it has -had oil spills
from time to time in its operation. No knam degradaticn of air or,
water quality or of any public health impacts have ever been.reported
related even directly to this existing oil refinery.
The Port of North Carolina at Wilmington is cme of only two
sites within the State with characteristics such as the 38-foot channel
depth and a 400-foot width, where such energy-related,facilities as
oil refineries can locate.
Lands related to the Port on the Wilmington -New Hanover side
are consumed, it is reported by authorities of those governments,'.with
the exception of acreage further south of the Port. However, due to }
the location of various oil tank farms and the Gold Bond Building
M

iii
Products plant, extension of the Port to any open acreage south is
limited due to the current congestion and physical constraints of
present development.
Railroad support systems which must service a modern port are
severely hampered due to the present network of trackage in the
Wilmington area. All in -bound and otitbound traffic must cross .Oleander
Drive on shipments related to the Port'_s•.activities.
Such physical problems deter any form of energy -related, port -
related industry of any consequence.
The only place for growth of this Port and for seeking to
meet oil/energy importation needs of the Port of North Carolina is
in Brunswick County. Other portions of the Port system in other
locations do not have and cannot provide the channel depth, width,
and rail/highway system already existent in this locale.
The question then, of whether such facilities should be per-
mitted, and if so, how, and where,is a matter of statewide interest
and concern. The attached Land Use Classification Map.:shoes areas for industry in
relation to the Cape Fear River that would be capable of accomodating
such operations. The County states in this Plan that any industry
must meet state and national environmental standards. The County
further declares in this Plan the intent and assurance of necessary
public support systems for industry in locations where they are shown
or discussed in this Plan.

iv
APPENDIX II
Acres as shown by Land Classification Map
Total "land" in County = 558,720 acres
Conservation:
Pure Omservation = 54,000
Industrial 15,000
69,000
69,000
489,720 acres
Transition:
low Density Residential = 53,000
Industrial 40,000 ,
Mixed Use 17,000
110,000 - 110,000
379,720 acres
EKisting Developed-14,000 `
Agricultural forestry/wildlife,
rural = 365,720 acres
0-377081070m
Agriculture, forestry/wildlife, rural = 65.5%
Transition = 19.6%
Donservatim = 12.4%
acisting Developed - 2.5%
100.0%
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v
1975 Plan
Ocnservatian:
Puy: Ocnservaticn 55,000
Industrial Access 5,000
60,000
Existing Developed 0
Transition 17,000
Rural:
Ocmrnniity
Residential
Industrial
Rural
15,000
20,000
41,000
405,720
558.720
1981 Plan
Oonservaticn:
Pure Oonservaticn
54,000
Industrial Access
15,000
69,000
Existing Developed 141,000
Transition:
law Density Res.
53,000
Industrial
40,000
Mixed Use
17,000
�, 0-O0
O=Mmity,
Agriculture and
forestxy/wildlife= 365,720
558,720

V1
APPENDIX III
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THAT LAND USE
PLAN ADOPTED BY THE BRUNSWICK COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ON 11-4-75
AND THAT LAND USE PLAN ADOPTED BY THE
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ON 2-16-81.
1981 Introductory Policy Statement:
The Brunswick Board of County Commissioners by their adoption
of this' Land Use Plan have adopted the following policies for dealing
with land planning issues which will affect the community within the
next ten years. These policies establish a systematic basis by which
proposed developments will be judged. If a proposed development
would violate the intent of these policies, action to prevent its con-
struction as to correct those factors not responding to this plan will
be taken by local, state, and hopefully by federal government agencies.
These policies will be used by local officials in their deci-
sion making process.
1975 Introductory Policy Statement:
The County Commissioners hereby adopt
the following policy statements as a guide for future
County development. These policies will be the basis
for future County plans, decisions, and activities and
future plans and activities will be designed to imple-
ment these policy statements.
Discussion: The 1981 Policy makes it clear the County's Plan is
for .a ten year Period. It makes it clear that this Plan is a aommitt
ment on the state as well as the county, and suggests it is a respon-
sibliity of the state to insure federal government observance of the
Plan.
The 1981 Policy makes it clear this Plan provides a systematic basis
for development decisions. It makes it clear this Plan is not simply
a "basis", but indeed will be used by the County in the decision -
making process.
1981 Policy Number One:
1. RESOURCE PROTECTION
Brunswick County will support and enforce through its CAMA
permitting capacity the State Policies and permitted use in the
X
r

vii
1981 Policy Number One, continued.
Areas of Enivronmental Concern (AEC's). The State Policy.statements
for AEC's offer protection for the County's fragile and significant
environmental resources with the CAMA permitting procedures. In
accordance with those policies set forth in sub -Chapter 7H of the
State CAMA'regulations, the County adopts the following policies
concerning AEC's in its jurisdiction.
a. The. Estuarine System. In recognintion of the enormous..
economic, social, and biological values the estuarine system.has
for North Carolina; the County will promote conservation and manage-
ment of the estuarine system as a whole, which includes the individual
AEC'.s: coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, public trust areas, and
estuarine shorelines. The significance of the system and its compo-
nents is.described in this Plan under.Fragile Areas.
The management objective for the system shall be to give highest
priority to the protection and coordinated management of all the
elements as an interrelated group of AEC's, so as to safeguard and
perpetuate their biological, social, economic, and aesthetic values,
and to minimize the likelihood of significant loss of private pro-
perty and public resources-.
In general, permitted land uses in the coastal wetlands, estuarine
waters, and.public trust areas shall be.those which are water de-
pendent. .'Examples of such. uses include: storage platforms, utility
easements, docks, boat ramps, dredging, bridges and bridge approaches,
revetments, bulkheads, culverts, underground facilities, groins,
navigational aids, mooring pilings, navigational channels, simple
access channels, and drainage ditches.
..Land uses that are not water dependent shall not be permitted on
coastal wetlands and public trust areas. Examples of uses that area
not water dependent may include: restaurants, residences, apart-
ments, motels, hotels, trailer parks, and factories.
Specificpolicies regarding .the individual AEC's of the estuarine
system are stated below. In every instance the particular location;
use, and design characteristics shall be in accord.kwith the general
use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and public:
trust areas as stated in subdhaapter 7H of the State CAMA regulations.
(1) 'Coastal Wet:lands. Activities in the coastal wetland
areas shall be restricted to those which do not signifi-
cantly affect the unique and delicate balance of this re-
source. Suitable land uses include those giving highest
priority to the protection and management of coastal wet-
lands, so as to safeguard and perpetuate their biological,
social, economic, and aesthetic values to establish a `.

Al
1981 Policy Number One, continued.
coordinated management system capable of conserving
and utilizing coastal wetlands as a natural resource
essential to the functioning of the entire estuarine
system. Highest priority of use shall be allocated
to the conservation of existing coastal wetlands. Second
priority shall be given to those uses that require water
access and cannot function elsewhere.
Acceptable land uses may include utility easements, fishing
piers, and docks. Unacceptable uses may include, but would
not be limited to, restaurants, businesses, residences,
apartments, motels, hotels, parking lots, private roads, and
highways.
(2) Estuarine Waters. In recognition of the importance of .
estuarine waters for the fisheries and related industries as
well as aesthetices, recreation, and education, the County
shall promote the conservation and quality of this resource.
Activities in the estuarine water areas shall be restricted
to those which do not permanently or significantly affect.
the functinon, cleanliness, salinity, and circulation of
estuarine waters. Suitable land/water uses include those
giving highest priority to the conservation and management of
these areas so as to safeguard and perpetuate their biological,
social, and economic values and utilizing estuarine waters in
order to maximize their benefits to man and the estuarine `
system. Highest priority of use shall be allocated to the
conservation of estuarine waters and its vital components.
Second priority shall be given to uses that require water
access and cannot function elsewhere.
Appropriate uses may include simple access channels, struc-
tures which prevent erosion, navigation channels, boat docks,
marinas, piers; and mooring pilings. .
The County, in recognition of the shellfish areas pollution
problem which closes these areas to harvesting, supports
the construction of the Southeastern, Southwest, and Northern
201 Facilities Plans. The County will also support projects
in estuarine water areas which aim to increase the productivity
of these waters. Such projects include oyster reseeding
programs and inlet channeling and dredging operations for.
the purpose of increasing the flushing action to tidal move-
ment.
(3) Public Trust Areas. In recognition of certain land
and water areas in which the public has certain established
rights and which also support valuable commercial and sports
fisheries, have aesthetic value, and are resources for econo-
mic development. The County shall protect the rights and
promote the conservation and management of public trust areas.
Suitable land/water uses include those which protect public

ix
n
1981 Policy Number one, continued.
rights for navigation and recreation and those which pre-
serve and manage the public trust areas in order to safe-
guard and perpetuate their biological, economic, social,
and aesthetic value, e.g., dredging, bulkheading and jettying.
In the absence of overriding public benefit, any use which
significantly interferes with the public right of navigation
or other public trust rights which apply in the area shall
not be allowed. Projects which would directly or indirectly
block or impair existing navigation channels, increase shore-
line erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide, cause ad-
verse water circulation patterns, violate water quality stan-
dards, or cause degredation of shellfish waters shall, in
general, not be allowed.
Uses that may be allowed in public trust areas shall not be
detrimental to the public trust rights and biological and
physical fucntions. Examples of such uses include the deve-
lopment of navigational channels or drainage ditches,, the use
of bulkheads to prevent erosion, the building of piers, docks,
or marinas.
(4) Estuarine Shoreline. CAMA defines the estuarine shoreline
in Brunswick County as areas extending 75 feet landward of the
mean high water line of the estuarine waters. Brunswick County
recognizes: a) the close association between estuarine shore-
lines and adjacent estuarine waters, b) the influence of
shorelines development on the quality of estuarine life, and
c) the damaging processes of shorefront erosion and.f looding
to which the estuarine shoreline is subject.
Shoreline devel_pTent. has profound affect on adjacent estua-
rine waters. Effluent from poorly placed or functioning
septic systems can pollute shellfish areas which represent
much greater economic benefits to the County's citizens than
do the residential uses of estuarine shoreline areas. '.In
recognition of this fact, the County discourages the use of
estuarine shoreline areas for residential purposes when there
is a substantial chance of pollution occurring. .
..The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers controls a 1,000 foot easement
adjacent to the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW) for the.
placemnt of fill material, access, and maintenance. Brunswick
County supports the placement of dredge spoil in the easement
only in those areas specified by the appropriate local govern-
ment. However, the County supports the concern of its island
municipalities that the Corps not be over excessive An limit_
ing development of the hundreds of privately owned lots.which
this easement covers.

x
1981 Policy Number One, continued.
Suitable land uses are those compatible with both the
dynamic nature of estuarine shorelines and the values.
of the estuarine system.
Residential, recreational, commercial, governmental, and
industrial land uses are all appropriate types of use along
the estuarine shoreline provided that:
(a) a substantial chance of pollution occurring from the
development does not exist; .
(b) natural barriers to erosion are preserved and not
substantially weakened or eliminated;
(c) the construction of impervious surfaces and areas.
not allowing natural drainage is limited to only
that necessary for developments;
(d) standards of the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollu-
tion Control Act 1973 are met;
(e) development does not have a significant adverse impact
on.estaurine resources;
(f) development does not significantly interfere with.
existing public rights of access to, or use of, navi-
gable waters or public resources;
(g)' no major public facility shall be permitted if' such
facility is likely to require extraordinary public
expenditures for maintenance and continued use, unless
it can be shown that the public purpose served.by_the
facility outweighs the required public expenditures
for constuction, maintenance, and continued use;
4.
(h) in those instances where ground absorption.sewage
disposal systems may legally be placed less than 100'
from the mean high water mark of any waters, such
systems shall be permitted only if they meet criteria
specified in subchapter 7H.0909 of the State Guidelines
for Areas of Environmental Concern; and
(i) development shall not cause major or irreversible damage
to valuable, documents historic architectural or ar-
chaeological resources. r
. . 0

91
1981 Policy Number one __,continued
b. Ocean Hazard Areas
In recognition of the critical nature of'ocean hazard areas
due to their special vulnerability to erosion and dynamic pro-
cesses and their possible danger to life and property because of
natural forces, the County supports the State Policies for Ocean
Hazard'Areas in Subchapter 7H of the State CAMA Regulations. The
Ocean Hazard area designation for the County includes the AEC's
of ocean erodible areas, high hazard flood areas, and inlet haz-
ard areas. Their significance and characteristics are described
in this plan under.Fragile Areas.
Suitable land uses in Ocean hazard areas generally are those
which eliminate unreasonable danger to life and property and which
achieve a balance between the financial, safety, and social factors
involved in hazard area development. Ocean shoreline erosion control
activities and dune establishment/stabilization are acceptable types
of land uses. Residential, commercial, and recreational land uses
are permissible in ocean hazard areas provided that:
(1) Development is set back a minimum of 30 times the average
annual erosion rate from the frontal dune or first line
of vegetation. The setbacks for Brunswick County are
listed in the Fragile Areas section of the Plan.
(2) Development does not involve the significant removal
or relocation of frontal dune sand or vegetation thereon.
(3) Mobile homes are not located within high hazard flood
areas unless they are within mobile home parks existing
as of June 1, 1979.
...(4) Development is consistent with minimum lot size and set
back requirements established by local regulations.
(5) Development implements means and methods to mitigate or
minimize adverse impacts of the project.
�(6) Development of growth -inducing public facilities such as
sewers, waterlines, roads, bridges, and erosion control
measures is constructed only in cases where:
(a) National or state interests and public benefits.
are clearly overriding factors,
(b) Facilities would not exacerbate existing hazards or
damage natural buffers,
(c) Facilities would be reasonably safe from flood and
. erosion related damage,
(d). Facilities do not promote growth and development in
Ocean Hazard Areas.
xi

1981 Policy Number Cne, continued
xii
7. Prior to the issuance of any permit for development in the
ocean hazard AEC's, there shall be a written acknowledge-
ment from the applicant that the applicant is aware of
the risks associated with development in this hazardous area.
By granting permits, the Coastal Resources Commission does
not guarantee the safety of the development and assumes no
liability for future damage to the development.
8. Brunswick County, recognizing that erosion along the beaches
has caused many problems, supports beach renourishment pro-
jects that would allow approved suitable spoils to be taken
from Intracoastal Waterway dredging to be placed on designated
areas on the island.
9. The County, recognizing that inlet migration is a natural
ongoing process, encourages permanent stabilization. of Inlet
hazard Areas by approved methods such as bulkheading and jet -
tying.
C. Natural and Cultural Resource Areas. Uncontrolled or incompatible
development may result in major or irreversible damage to fragile
coastal resource areas which contain environmental, natrual, or
cultural resources of more than local significance. In recognition
.of'this the County will seek to protect such natural systems or
cultural resources; scientific, educational, or associative values;
and aesthetic qualities.
Individual AEC's included in this general category are:.
Coastal complex natural areas, coastal areas that sustain remnant
.species, unique coastal geologic formation, significant coastal
architectural resources, and significant coastal historic archi-
tectural resources. Their description and significance is found
in this plan under Fragile Areas.
In general, these resources are noted to be valuable educational,'
.scientific, and aesthetic resources that cannot be duplicated.. They
may be important components in a natural system or in the broad -patterns
of history. Their importance serves to distinguish the designated areas
as significant in relation to the coastal landscape and historical
architectural and archaeologican remains -in the coastal zone.
In accordance with Policies stated in subchapter 7H of the State CAMA
regulations, the County will support the following actions regarding
these irreplaceable resources:
(1) Protection of unique habitat conditions that are necessary
to the continued survival of threatened and endangered
native plants and animals and to minimize land use impacts
that might jeopardize these conditions.
(2) Protection of the features of a designated coastal complex
natural area in order to safeguard its biological relation-
ships, educational and scientific values, and aesthetic
qualities. Specific objectives for each of these functions
shall be related to the following policy statements either
singly or in combination:

1981 Policy. Number one, continued
(a) To protect the natural conditions of the sites
that function as key or unique components of
coastal systems. The interactions of various
life forms are the foremost omeern and include
sites that are necessary far the completion of
life cycles, areas that function as links to
bther wildlife areas (wildlife corridors) , and.
localities where the links between biological
and physical envirceaments are most fragile.
(b) To protect the identified scientific and eduaa-
ticnal values and to, ensure that the site will
be accessible for related study purposes.
(c) To protect the values of the designated coastal
complex natural area as expressed by the local
government and citizenry. These values should
be related to the educational and aesthetic
qualities of the feature.
(3) Crnsexvaticn of coastal archaeological resources of more than focal
significance to history or prehistory that constitute iTportant
scientific sites, or are valuable educaticnal, associative, or
aesthetic resources. Specific objectives for each of these functions
shall be related to the following policy statements either singly or
in cambinaticnl
(a) to mmenne significant archaeological resources, including
their spatial and structural context and characteristics
through rn-site preservation or scientific study.
(b) To ensure that the designated archaeological resource, or the
information contained therein, be preserved for and be access-
ible to the scientific and educational oinmmities for related
study purposes.
(c) to protect the values of the designated archaeological resource
as expressed by the local government and ci.tizcnry; these
values should be related to the educational, associative or
aesthetic qualities of the resource.
Development may be pernutted in designated fragile coastal natural or cultural
resource areas provided that:
(1) The proposed design and location will dose no major or irreversible damage
to the stated values of a particular resource. Cne or more Of the following
values must be considered depending upon the stated significance of the
resource:
v (a) Develgmient shall preserve the values of the individual
resource as it functions as a critical eampcneht of a
natural system.

1981 Policy number one, continued
xiv
(b) DevelcFment shall not adversely affect the
values of the resource as a uni e- scientific
associative, or educational resource.
(c) Develepment shall be consistent with the aesthetic
values of a resource as identified by the local
goverrr ent and citizenry.
(2) No reasonable alternative sites are available outside the designated
AEC.
(3) Reasonable mitigation measures have been considered and incorporated
into any develcpment plan. These measures shall include consultation
with recognized authorities and with the Coastal Resources ammission.
(4) The project will be of equal or greater public benefit than those
benefits lost or damaged through de•.-elccx-ent.
nTSCT7SSTrN!!
The 1975 Land Use Plan contained no policies eai arable to this 1981 Policy
Number One. The hits and pieces that can be discerned from that 1975 Plan that
could in any way be relative are 1110". Brunswick County will encourage preser-
vation of its historic sites and areas, 11. Bruns -wick county will will work tc
preserve Ft. Caswell as a historic site and obtain access for.public use, 12.
Brunswick County will work to preserve its natural scenic areas and areas con-
taining plant or animal species that are nearly extinct. "
FA
0'
v
T

�90r�wmjc
xv
1981 Policy Number Two:
2. PHYSICAL CCNSTRAMS To EMICPN=
The County adopts the following policies regarding physical constraints to
development -
a.
a. Septic Tank Suitability
In conformity with State health regulations, growth and development will
be discouraged in areas where septic tanks will not function and sewer
services are not to be available within a ten-year period.
DISCUSSICN:
Carparable 1975 Policy #4: "Growth and development will be discouraged in
areas where deptic tanks will not function and sewer service is not available."
9lie new Plan makes it clear that it was prepared according to Coastal resources
Cam-Lissicn's administrative jaw requirement that such plan be for a ten-year period.
b. Drainage
i Growth and development will be discouraged where poor drainage
exist unless corrective measures are taken. Corrective measures
such as..4itches or structures being on stilts will be required if
oanstructicn. is to be in areas of poor drainage or seasonal high
water.
Because Brunswick County lies on the low coastal plain of the East
Coast, seasonal flooding and poor drainage sometimes results. Flooding
can cause substantial hana to property and life. In order to minimize
this occurranee, Brunswick County will discourage development in areas
of poor drainage or seasonal highwater.
Clnly development than cannot be placed in more suitable location may
be developed in these areas. Examples of permitted uses in these areas
are agriculture, tree fanning, very low density residential duse,golf courses
and other recreational uses, and elevated mixed use or industrial use.
If urban use'is to be developed in an area of poor drainage or seasonal high-
water, special requirements may be necessary. 'These requirements include . the
cutting of -drainage ditches and placing of structure on stilts.
nTRCTVZgTCN-
There was no comparable policy in the 1975 Plan.
c. Bearing Opacity
Growth and development will be discouraged in areas where soils will not
support the weight of proposed structures.
Development may be constructed if corrective measures for stabilizing building
foundations are incorporated into the develepmnt design.

1981 Policy Nunber Two, continued.
DISC USSICN:
The 1975 Plan ocaparable policy 65 stated: "Growth and development
will be discouraged in areas where soils will not support buildings" This.
former policy was clarified to recognize that man has had the capability for
hundreds of years, and is continually improving upon techniques, for going
hundreds of feet dorm to a rock base for buildings.
d. Off -road vehicles
Brunswick County has very little dune or beach area under its jurisdiction.
These areas are of prime concern in regard to off -road vehicle policy. The
only sand dune/beach/areas are on Bald Head Island and Third Island, both of
which are inaccessible by automobile at this time. The remaining (1:ae/beach
areas are locally regulated. These are Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden
Beach, long Beach, Yaupon Beach, and Caswell Beach. Off road vehicles are
discouraged on dunes and beaches within the jurisdiction of the county.
DISMISSION:
There was no cmparable policy in the 1975 Plan.
e. Finger Canals
Future development of finger canal type tesidential develcpneht in
general shall be prohibited unless they are desigrwd for continuous, even at -
low tide, water circulation so that no dead-end waters are created and as long
as no sensitive areas such as marshlands are disturbed, and there shall be no
septic tanks but as a miner„m a cam uu.ty wastewater toeatment system designed and
certified as to operational features and permanence, meeting all state and federal
requirements for such systems. The value of and desire for waterfront lots is
recognized and finger canal developments can help meet this need, as long as the
lands involved areon the mainland on, epen bodies of water such as the Intracoastal
Waterway and the rivers, and such lands can be brought to elevations adequate for
development, with concrete bulkheads with deadmen ties along all points of such
canals.
, Further in platting any such development, the lands in any such canals or
waterways are not to be dedicated to the public nor will the comity accept any
responsibility over than. Instead, they shall be shoran cn the plat or by articles
to permanently aecatpany the plat that they are in the ownership of all abutting
lots, and that the owners of these lots assume full responsibility for their safe
maintenance, particularly as to avoid silting and assure designed water flows are
continuing, and that public rights to navigation within the middle, deeper portion
of such canals is to be respected. Swash channels as large culverted areas at the
ends of all proposed canals shall connect than to each other, for cleansing actions.
There was no carparable policy in the 1975 Plan.

xvii
F
1981 Policy Number Three;
EKisting and potential Mineral production Areas
Brunswick County has little known mineral deposits., As far as is
known, only sand, gravel and coquina rock have been mined in Brunswick
County. The only known existing mining operation is a small coquiana operation
near Calabash. Since it appears existing operations pose no policy issue and
the likelihood of future mineral extraction operation beginning in Brunswick
County are remote, not policy statements concerning this issue will'be made.
However, the County recognized that were significant deposits discovered, it
would be to the socio-ecrnomic interests of the citizens of the county to
encourage their extraction.
DISCUSSICN:
There was no comparable policy in the 1975 Plan.
1981 Policy Number Four:
Provision of Services for Development
a. Public Plater Supply
Brunswick County encourages growth to occur in those areas having
existing or planned urban facilities, especially water and sewer.
46 The County will work to secure sources of water for urban residential,
commercial and industrial uses.
Water is necessary for all farms of develcpnent. It is the Oounty's
responsibility to secure water for a public water supply. The cost of secaring
this supply whether it be ground or surface water will be borne by the users.
Grants will be sought to help finance the devalagnent of water sources where
possible. User Charges will be the main means of financing when grants or tax
issues are unavailable.
The County will promote public water systems for urban areas. Public
water systems provide safer water and in sane circumstances more cost efficient
water than do individual wells. Public water systems are feasible for very low
density areas. Vbere the population density has reached the point where the
installation of water lines is not an unreasonable cost in relation to the number'
bf people served, to the public water system will be required. Connection to the
public water systems will also be encouraged where health problem or salt water
intrusion is occurring in private wells, but only in urban areas.
The County commits itself to providing major trun}:.lines throughout the
County where public water is feasible and needed. Minor lines and individual
connections will be done at the user or property owners expende. Developers of
y new subdivisions will be encouraged to install or assume payment for water lines,
for that time when they can be connected to the public system.
DISCUSSICN:
There was no emparable policy in the 1975 Plan.

1981 Policy Number Four, continued
b. Public Sewerage facilities
The County will support the construction of sewerage treatment' facilities
for urban areas.
Poorly functioning septic tanks threaten to pollute the County.'s estuarine
and coastal waters, as well as drinking water supplies. To avoid possible
water pollution problems in the future, Brunswick County will work to provide
sewerage treatment facilities in urban and emerging urban areas.
The County intends to finance these facilities through grants, taxation,.
and special assessment -bond floatings. Any future develcFnent that will sub-
stantially harm or pollute estuarine or coastal waters using septic sj stems
will not be permitted. If the developer will provide a sewerage collection and
treatment system, the develepment may be permitted.
i)T.q(TRSTrN -
There was no ca-parable policy in the 1975 plan.
c. Solid Waste Disposal
The County will seek to always retain adequate sites for landfill and
solid waste disposal.
The County recognizes its role as the provider of solid waste disposal
service for the Ocxmty's residential and eamuercial develcprent. In order to
carry cut this role, adequate means of final disposition will be available..
This may take the form of incineration, resource recovery, or landfills. Since
the County is presently using landfills as its means of solid waste disposal and
will do so in the foreseeable future, adequate landfill need to be retained at.
all times.
It is the policy of Brunswick County to provide landfill equal to the 20-
year need of the projected Brunswick County population.
The County will seek to improve garbage collection systems. The Canty
recognizes its role as the provider of garbage collection service .in the unincor-
porated areas of the County. It is the policy of Brunswick Canty of provide
this service in a cost efficient, safe and sanitary manner.
DISCUSSICN:
There was no eauparable policy in the 1975 Plan.
d. Rescue Squad and Fire Protection
n
Brunswick County will recognize the majority. of the services provided by the
fire and rescue squads as necessary services. '
r

"ran
1981 Policy Number Four, continued
In a large sparcely pcpulated County like Brunswick County, it is
prohibitively expensive to provide fire protection and rescue services with
paid professionals throughout the County. Brunswick Oounty believes it has the
responsibility to help provide these services. Therefore, the County ocntributes
funds to volunteer fire and rescue squads. Also the County helps coordinate these
organizations through its. civil preparedness program.
DISCUSSION:
A siniplistic policy of the 1975 Plan stated:
18. Brunswick Ocunty will help and provide cmtributicn funds
for fire and rescue squads.
e. Public School Facilities
Improvement of the public school facilities will be encouraged. As the
County urbanizes and industrializes, the County recognizes the public school
system along with Brunswick Technical Institute will have to be ready for
immediate training of residents so that new jobs created are available to present
Colmty residents, regardless of the type of business or industry that settles in
the County.
DISCUSSION:
There was no canparable policy in the 1975 Plan. That Plan stated as
policy #17:
Brunswiick County will encourage cahtinued and expanded multipurpose
use of school facilities for recreation and other purposes.
Indeed, over the past seven years, Bnmswick County has ampletely rebuilt
the physical plants ccnprising the public school system; and begun a technical
institute, and inproved the quality of education. The new policy is a direct
reflection of educational needs based upon this Plan, in recognition of shifts fran
rural to partly urban life styles in the County.
f. Transportation
The County will work with the state and federal goveninents in preparing
a major Rad Plan to meet needs of their rapidly growing, urbanizing area, as
lcngg as such planning is based cn this Iand Use Plan.
Tile County will encourage private transportaicn companies to operate with-
in the County.
DTSQ7S.STCN
V There was no UUL arable policy in the 1975 Plan.

KON
1981 Policy Number Five:
Growth Patterns
a. Oompact Growth
Brunswick County will follow a "Ca -pact Growth Policy" to encourage
urban develeFnent only in those areas of the County indicated for such urban
development in this Land Use Plan.
Belated 1975 policies were:
1. Brunswick County will follow a "Ompact Growth Policy," This will
allow existing areas under develcgnent to develop fully before expansi.cn into
new areas, and new develcpaent will occur as an expansion of exisii:ng fully
developed areas.
2. Brunswick County will in addition, follow where applicable a policy of
"Canpaet Growth within existing service corridors," This policy will allow
existing areas under development and areas in existing service corridors to
fully develop before expansion into new areas and new develcgxnent will occur as
an expansian from these fully develcped areas.
DISCM.gT(N :
U
T
These policies are comparable, but the new policy is a clearer statement
and indicates directly that urban growth is to go only in areas designated by
this plan for such develegrent. There is only one area of the County that
had basic full urban services, the City of Southport. That service system is at �
capacity and additional growth cannot be directed there until full services are
afforded, so it is no different than any of the other urban areas of the County
that do not at this time have such services.
b. Conflicting Land Uses
Spatial separation of absolutely conflicting land uses will be encouraged
but more importantly, adverse impacts of land uses will be required to'be mini-
mized as to impacts on surrounding lands. In declaring this policy, the County
recognizes that -"Good industry makes good neighbors".
DISCOSSICN-1
The closest policy statement in any way comparable in the 1975 Plan was:
'18. Brunswick Cbunty will encourage balanced growth between the oannercial and
residential sectors." The new Policy is a clear declaration, seen in the follo-
wing policy implementation section of the plan, where this policy is translated
to move to zoning for that area within the jurisdiction of the County.
c. Housing
Brunswick County will seek to provide low i.ncme persons with safe, decent
sanitary housing. Brunswick County vigorously will seek to obtain all
possible housing and neighborhood improvements and upgrading for low and moderate
inure persons and families.

f
1981 Policy Number Five, continued
DISCUSSICN: .
The 1975 Plan's only statement regarding housing was:
7. Brunswick County will encourage a variety of housing
types including single family, duplex, law -profile
apartments, and high-rise apartments. Apartments,
including low profile and high-rise, will be restricted
to low density with requirements for provision of open
space to be maintained perpetually. Apartments will,
however, be permitted only where the full range or urban
services is provided.
There was no discussion of or policy to address the housing and neighbor-
hood needs of low - and moderate -inane persons and families, as there is in
the 1981 plan.
The County airport is a significant positive feature and the County will
seek to have it iTiproved and expanded.
nTC!•f 1CCTMT .
There was no comparable policy in the 1975 Plan.
e. Industrial Types -and Locations
j Brunswick County will support and promote socially, physically and eamcmically
envi.rcmentally sound manufacturing and other industrial enterprise. Types of
Industry particularly favored include
1. Agriculture - related, such as food processing, canning, etc.,
anywhere within better agricultural land areas.
2. Forestry - related, such as wood chips into energy, anywhere
within better forestry Land areas.
.3.. Marien-related, such as boat manufacture:, part activities,
fish and shell -fish processing, canning, etc.
4. Large part -related industries to meet the needs of the people
of North Carolina, including their energy needs.
5. Major industries in other stretches of U.S. 74-76 and along
U.S. 17, which is and will remain basically rural in character,
where public water and sewer services will not be planned, pro-
viding their own services and utilities.
DISCUSSION
The 1975 plan contained two policies regarding certain .aspects of Industry:

xxii
1981. Policy Number Five, continued.
I.T. Brunswick Comity will continue to encourage desirable industrial
develepment and maintain a favorable climate for existing and new, industry., and
21. Brunswick County will encourage and promote its tourist industry. "
The new policy is a clear expression of the needs and views of the
citizens of Brunswick County, and, further, speaks to the needs of the entire
pcpulaoe of North Carolina, as to port and energy.
• • • � • • i i •, •r is
The citizens of Brunswick County believe that there is a place for most
types of development. in the County provided that proper and adequate measures are
incorporated into the design, construction, and operation. of the development to
elmninate substantial negative impacts of the development on neighboring uses
of land and -the environment. EKi.sting development and industry must be conserved
and protected. New development will be encouraged and provided with the necessary
public services. In, order to bring about this policy objective, Brunswick County
adapts the following policies in ,regard to economic development:
a. Industrv1
Brunswick County will continue to encourage desirable industrial deve1q=mt
and encourage favorable economic climate, transportation network, utilities, banking
and public support services for existing and new industry, with qualifications as ti
outlined in 5.e. above.
The County will encourage any existing industries which are causing air
pollution to cease polluting.
The County will work to reduce hazard -potentials possessed by certain indus-
tries which pose substantial health hazards.
In an industry which has been shovm to be a probable environmental or health
hazard can prove corrective measures have been incorporated into the design, con-
struction and operation of the facility so as to eliminate the substantial hazards,
then it may locate within the County. The specific site of the proposed facility
must be one which will not cause undue interferrenee with or reduce the quality of
existing neighboring land uses. In assessing whether*or not an industry should
be permitted to locate within Brunswick County, consideration will be given to the
eeonani.c impact of the proposed facility.
Projects and developments which require state or federal penunits, licenses,
or funds must meet this policy objective.
As designated on the Land Classification Map, major industrial development ,
in Brunswick County has been located, and will continue to be located, alaig the
northeastern corridor of the County and along the Cape Fear River, where it will
be criented to part and water facilities. Criteria for industrial. siting are as
follows:
r,

1981 Policy Number Six, continued.
1. Proximity to existing and proposed water and sewerage facilities.
2. Proximity to existing rail lines and roads..
3. Soil suitability
4. Avoidance of ocnflict with adjacent land uses
5. Consideration for environmentally fragile areas.
The Brunswick County Board of County Omr-&ssicners makes the specific finding.
that there will be no adverse impacts of new industry upon existing industry under
this plan.
T)T.gaT4GTCN-
There were no comparable policies in the 1975 Plan.
1981 Policy Number Seven:
MVINUING PUBLIC PAMCICPATICN
Brunswick County realizes an important part of any planning program is citizen
involvement. In order to provide for this public participation, the County adopts
the folla4ring public involvement policy. The Oounty will encourage its citizens
to became involved in the land use planning process.
All land use plans and updates wiII be done with public as well as local
government participation. Citizen and local government participation in the
land use planning process will be provided.
DISCIJSSICN:
0 There was no oorparable policy in the 1975 Plan.
other 1975 policies
The 1975 Plan contained other policies today considered either out of place
in a Iand Use Plan or obsolete.
1975 Policy # 13: "Brunswick County will work to pzxmide public parking
and access areas to its public beaches."
DISC USSICN: .
Since the only "public beach" in the unincorporated jurisdiction of Brunswick
County is an Bald Head Island, which by policy. of this plan is not suggested for
any roadway access or use as far as the beach is concerned other than the extremely.
low -intensity use by occasional- boaters, there is no need for such a Policy and
it could be misleading as though the County were pledging" such facilities within
municipalities, which is certainly not the case.
1975 Policy #14: "Brunswick County will work to see that more boat access
areas to coastal and fresh waters are provided.
v
DISCISSICN :
Today, this is.ccnsidered a responsibility of stage and federalgvernment.
h I

xxiv
A
Other 1975 Policies, continued
1975 Policy #15: "The County will work to provide neighborhood recreation
areas.
DISCUSSICN:
Today, this is considered a responsibility of municipal goverrmroents, of which
there are thirteen within Brunswick County. If and when there is a need in areas
that will not became parts of municipalities in the future, the County may consider
such an activity, but makes no pledge or policy statement to that effect.
1975 Policy #16: "Brunswick County will encourage preservation and expansion
.of its fisheries industry, both sports and camiercial"
DISCUSSICN:
In the 1981 Plan, no special industry/business is isolated out and given
such special treatment. The'policies of the �_1981• Plan are clear that the various
forms of enterprise associated: with marine areas are an asset when they do not
pollute.
1975 Policy #19: "Brunswick Cbunty will work to can a referrendian of A.B.C. stores
and beer sales at a general election if proper petitions are
submitted by the pecple."
DISCUSSICN:
This is still the position of a majority of the members of the Board of
County Corindssicners, but has, no place in a Iand Use Plan.
1975 Policy #20: "Brunswick County will work to attract and encourage
private facilities for group meetings, conventions,
individual lodgings, and a better variety of restaurants."
DISCUSSICN:
The municipalities that cover almost all Atlantic Beach frontage have policies
discouraging anything that would create "Grand Strand" type conditions. nds 1975
policy would be in conflict with the policies and plans of the many municipalities.
1975 Policy #22: "County policy will be not to encourage a large 'amount of
growth and development nor a large increase in populatim,
with growth policies encouraged by Township as follows:
Specific Policies by Tamship:
1. Limited or moderate growth will be encouraged in the Smithville
Township, lockwood Folly Taanship, and Towncreek Zbwbship.
2. Lusted, moderate, or very little growth will be encouraged in the k
Waccamaw Township.

i other 1975 policies, continued_
A
3. continued and moderate growth will be encouraged in the
Northwest Township (Leland Area) as services are available
or planned.
4. A large amount of growth, with emphasis on a limited year -
around or permanent population and a large summer seasonal
population, will be encouraged in the Shallotte Township.
This growth will be encouraged only in accordance with
policies 1, 2, 3, and 6."
DISQJSSICN :
Township lines as a basis for planning are not acceptable. Townships are
simply political boundaries, having no status over the years, as under Baker
vs. Kerr ("peeple, not pine trees") , prcportionate representation requires re-
working of these political boundaries, ]mown as Townships, at least with every
biennial census population count.
The terms "].invited",, "moderate", "large ancunt" and "very Little" were not
defined in the 1975 Plan, nor do they make any sense in the Queen's English when
applied on a Township basis. It is impossible to believe there was any seriousness
of "largge amounts" of urban growth for the entirity of the Shallotte Township.
That Township contains sane of the finest agricultural soils and forestry areas
�'. in the county, .and by the 1981 Plan they are so identified on the Land Classification
Map.
The 1981 Plan is based upon actual field conditions -in its distinction be-
tween existing as well as projected areas that should be either rural or urban.
It carefully defines these distinctions.
Population growth between 1970 and 1980, as shown by U.S. census figures,
was an astounding 46% increase, in permanent residents. This rapid permanent
growth was not reflected in the 1975 Plan nor was the actual industrial develop-
ment that was happening ng in the County.
1975 Policy #23:
DISQJSSICN:
"urban growth and develcpment will be progranmed to occur
where adequate services are available or planned."
This policy makes no sense today and could not possibly have made sense in
1975, as there were and are no areas of the County meeting the definition of
Developed which requires that in addition to certain densities/intensities of deve-
lgxnent that there be public water and sewer systems Further, in 1975, theme
were no plans for public water and sewer sysb3m.
1975 Policy #26: "Growth and development will be discouraged in productive
agricultural lands and productive forest lands when such
growth is not in accordance with the Carpact Growth Policy
r and Corridor Grawth Policy."
nTSCTIg4TrW -
This policy is similar to other policies of the 1981 plan,which recognizes
the better agricultural lands and forestry/wild life areas not in the path of that

xxvi
Otter 1975 policies, continued
urban develepment.projected over the next ten year period..
In late 1980, at the direction of the N.C. Coastal Resources Oauuissicn , A'
a series of policies were added to this Land Use Plan, including;
1. Instance of agriculture, forestry, mining, fisheries and
recreational reseurees
2. Energy facility siting and develcgrent, including pipelines and off -share
impacts.
3. Oil Refinery Impacts
4. Channel.maintenanee and beach nourishment..
5. Archaeological, architectural historic, and wildlife resources.
6. Carrying capacity - possible plan adjustments.
There were no comparable policies in the 1975 Plan.
1

w ccmPARATIVE ANALYSIS CF THE LAND CLASSIFICATICN MAPS CP 1975 and 1981
t
C7
t
Al
Indicative of the change that has slowly been recognized, if recognized
at all, by state and federal officials, is the increase in urbanization. As
recently as November 24, 1980 a high state planning official, R. Marion Poole
of the Thoroughfare Planning Division, N.C. Department of Transportation, referred
to Brunswick County as "that swamp across the river from Wi_lmingtcn".
This ignorance/basis is dominant in Raleigh and through the influence of state
government, possibly within federal agencies. That situation has to change.
In 1975, the state was projecting a future resident pepulaticri for.'
Hnulswick County of some 50,000 persons by 1990. By 1979, the state had revised.
this projection to approximately 65,000 by 1990, but that figure is far short of
Projections by many leading eomoaic indicators.
In the same manner, the state has not recognized the studies of the Research
Triangle as to number of tourists, and is still projecting apprcK mately me —third
of the tourists that the Research Triangle studies show in Br uLm-wick County.
The fact that Brunswick County was officially recognized as part of the
Wilmington Standard Metropolitan Area following the 1970 Census seers to have
been overlooked by everyone up to date.
other items of significance since the 1975 Plan, or not reflected in the 1975
Plan, are that Areas of Enviro ental Concern have been officially designated by
the state, and tentative findings of flood prone lands. have been made by an agency
of the federal government.
The 1981 Land Classification Map is a modem base for quidance of an emerging
urban county, whereas the 1975 Map was in terms of a rural county.
A band of urbanization predicted in the 1975 Plan as a future was indeed
fact as to its emergence by 1981, and is reflected in the new plan. It represents
a relatively small area of the County, and in every way is respective of envirnn=
mentally sensitive areas and existing land and water uses.
There are changes in the particular land classifications used between 1975
and 1981.. The 1975 Plan had a classification "Developed", which applied only
to an area within one nauiicipality, which area was not even part of the juurisdic--
ticn of that plan. That classification definition is maintained in the 1975 Plan,
although no traditional "Developed" areas are shown, as it is known that there are
areas which have the density/intensity of use lacking only public water and sewer
systems to be so identified, and, such support systems are being Planned and pror-
gx atimed at this time.
The 1981 Plan has a seed categk=y.of "Developed", that being Industrial.
Areas shown in this classification are significant land areas housnig major
industrial activities, whether such industires be owned by public or private
interests, such as the Dupont Plant, Pfizer Plant, Carolina Power and Light Nuclear
Generating Plant, Sunny Point Military Tenn al , etc. These uses were sham in the
1975 Plan as "Rural", a total misnamr.

xxviii
CXMPARA= ANALYSIS CP THE LAND CLASSIFICATION MAPS CIF 1975 AND 1980
continued.
The 1975 Plan had one category classified "Transition". This classification'
was applied to various areas related to the Cape Fear River,to the Intercoastal
Waterway, and to lands.near and associated with the Lockwood Folly and Shallotte
Dyers. The 1981 Plan includes three types of "Transition", namely Low -Density
Residential/Iiistoric Mixed Use, and Industrial. They are applied in a band related
to the Cape Fear River, The Intercoastal Waterway, and the Lockwood Folly and
Shallotte Rivers.
Both Plans used the sane teen and definition for "Camuni.ty", but the 1981
Plan contains a careful definition of land areas.in this classification, includ-
ing several caum=ties that had not been shown in the 1975 Plan.
The 1975 Plan had three types of classifications in the "Rural" category,
including Rural, Rural residential, and Rural Industrial. The 1980 Plan oontai.ns
four definitions of types of Rural, including Plain Rural, Rural Agriculture,
Rural Forestry/Wild Life, The 1981 Plan makes a careful distinction between
Rural per se, the better agricultural lands, and those lands in use for forestry/
wildlife, and the definitions used and land areas so classified were the product
of the L.S. Soil Conservation Service for Brunswick County.
The same two "Coservation" types were used in both Plans, one being "Conser-
vation", and used over those extremely fragile areas such as barrier islands and
flood prove lands, and the other being Industrial Access, which was applied to
sensitive marshlands and flood prone lands by Transiticn'Industry classification
in spots along the Cape'Fear River.
IV,

APPENDIX FOUR
A SPECIAL FEATURE OF THE SOCIAL
AND ECCNCMIC FUT M CF BRUNSWICK
COUNTY THAT OFFERS A SPECIAL
POTENTIAL ATTRIBUTE - RETIREE`S.
This Land Use Plan acknowledges but goes into no depth on.the relatively
recent influx of retired persons to Brunswick County.
No figures have been collected to reflect the impact on the econany from
various forms of transfer payments from O. A. S. I. , other pension system pay-
ments, impact on local stock investments, etc.
The 1980 Census details when available should indicate this resource and
to sane degree its impact.
Additional data will be gathered towards evaluating means to further this
opportunity.
Much as has been seen in some North Carolina mountain counties and in other
areas of the Southeastern United States, particularly along the Atlantic Ccean
and the Gulf of Mexico, where "retirees" are now recognized as a. type of industry
IT to encourage for its many attributes.
During the course of public workshops and hearings over development of
this Land Use Plan, Mr. Henry S. Goodwin, a retired resident of the Tam Creek
t township, offered a detailed analysis of what an influx of a large retiree
oarr<rtmity would mean to the County in terms of social, economic and physical
possibilities. Mr. Goodwin suggested this feature of Brunswick County would be
a viable alternative to possible over -industrialization.
Mr. Goodwin envisioned the type of retired person or couple who would be
of above average income for this age group in general in cur ATerican society.
It is knownthat developers in Florida have been able to create such cam mities,
package them and "sell" them to special groups in one major northern city, per-
haps even within one club in such a city, or to a group of air force officers of
colonel or above rank, or fraternal or such groups.
It is the intent of Brunswick County through both its Planning Board and
Rosource Development Ommission to actively explore the potential development
of ways and means to seek out such retired persons and families as an asset.
1k.