Land Use Plan Update-1997

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The preparation of this map was financed in part
b the North Carolina Coastal
through a rant provided
Management ement Program, through funds provided by the
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Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, o
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which is administered by the Office of Oceon and
Coastal Resource Management, National Ocaoinic and
Atmospheric Administration.AIN
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lald Head Island
Fragile Areas Map
NWI* Wetlands
'National Wetlands Inventory of the US Fish and Wildlife Service
Primary Nursery Arreas
Bear Sanctuary
- Green Swamp
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- : -
Municipal (Not in Planning Area)
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Note: Due to map scale, this map is necessarily generalized in nature, and is
intended for general informational purposes only.
Indicates general location of
ridge lines of watershed areas
Brunswick County
LAND USE PLAN
1997 Update
Glenn Harbeck Associates
Planning and Public Involvement
SCALE IN MILES
NORTH o 1 2 3 a
I;

runswkC t-y North Carolina
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. ..............
J-2111Mr
SIeNSITIVITY INDLX MAP FOR TITS
CAsTI.S HAVNS AND PAID919 AQUIFERS
The botuularm of the areas dwwa oa this relax map
VC also allowu ca the Aquifer-Sawitivity MaP
EXPLANA110N
Ara wtdalain by dw Caatlo Ilaytw Aquifer
® Castle Ilapw Aquifer sinkhole area
® Area whoa Castle I layrw comfiaial layer ocatrs
Poodoo Aquifer outcrop are
�.'�.11
'
KMANATION OF MAI' UNITS
M Unit
H Characunsucs
Seuiuvi As u
JURFISULAOUMB
Wet 1W uplaods
to carts of ndwr areas
Wham caotemimate both the surftcud and the tt mwyim{
Have shallow depth a the ester
aquifers.
RAMy
When dw a1 Ant uplands as not drained thr"o artiQ-
sma wwrat" (WAWM) nw
CW c►msalk little ar no bwe&W effect is derived from
UK WMMMtW :ante end wastes nuy pond on the surface
Dry Ass sad sloply
Forst ewes MATS o<re MW areas
Wastes primarily a1Lct tbs surficial squira.
'
uplands
I/odalm depth a dw water table
eioderadatiat and other beneficial efrects Wei is the
Modaats kdhtatiat (ndtarp) ntta
um stunted "Isa•
Rechar a results to dilution of wastes.
Steams and
t7rotmd-water dinharp KM
Ws" movug thm* the pwaw-water system from Uw
pleedplal s
Shallow deph to dw wowr 4"
uplands rearm to aw lead surface.
Lepb or w iaslWation (,a"p)
Wastes despond of an Qoodplairu rcmaia oa Of clove to
the land surfac&
`artier 4leads
Rsdw p are
Wastes affect dw surticial aquifa sad ad 000AS
Shallow a modaw depth to tbs
aLawaYs•
water I"
Wastes may rise to lead wrfaee during stoma.
Lar a inftlustiom rate
Little beneficial esl'ect from unsatufatal zone.
CAS= NAVNI
www" redwp area
Wawa c wAni is both rite surtictal and the Castle
AQUIFLA
Madaats depth to the wwr taws
Hayrw agwfatl,
slakheb am
Larp y f,l"M (gyp) nue
Biodestadauom sad other beneficial effects occur in the
umaaatrated tarty•
Lar__p--``Fouad-water v►nthdrswals accelersts the fanmauom
harp pound -water withdrawals near the Caps fear River
result to Mtwara a coschment
11`1019
No Goofiaug Myer bgvwat"
Subject to contaauwttoa 1'10101waste d"Posal am the wet
AQUIFIR
Mficul Aquihr Ind lM Pt odes
IW ups,
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• MLks
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PREPARED BY RALPH C. HEATH
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'
Consulting Hydrogeologist
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�,or the
Brunswick County Planning Department
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September 1997
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P E N D E R
C O U N T Y
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Brunswick County
1997 Update
LEGEND
Aquifer -Sensitivity Features
Ground -water discharge areas
Perennial slid intermittent streams
x Floodplains, tenaces, and salt marshes
Ground -water recharge areas
Wet flat uplands
l--J Dry flat and sloping uplands
Barrier islands
Boundary of the Castle Hayne Aquifer
— — Boundary of the .Castle Hayne sinkhole area
• — • — • _ Boundary of the Castle Hayne confining layer
Boundary of the Peedee Aquifer outcrop area

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Calabash
Calah
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The preparation of this map 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 Ocean and
,
Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and,!;-,,,
Atmospheric Administration.�E
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Livin
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Caswell B
Branch
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outhport
Bald Head Island
Watersheds and
Drainage Patterns
Inn Watershed Name*
'Natural Resources Conservation Service
1 Watershed Ridge Lines
Principal Drainageways
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
1997 Update
Glenn Warbeck Associates
Planning and Public Involvement
SCALE IN MILES
- 7L
0 7L
NORTH 0 t 2 3 4
�E

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gi i +r • I�kil'It1 ii!�k
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Water Quality and Stream Classif !" tion StJQPLEMEN ,CLASSES (HIGH QUALITY WATERS)
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TIDAL SALT WATERS SA and C waf n the following watersheds have been designated as HQW, meaning that
they are rated 'xcellent based on their biological and physical/chemical characteristics. They
The lower reaches of all significant tidal salt waters within the geograp hi � l`nswick County are likely to be� er primary nursery areas or cntical habitat areas. The locations are noted on
have been classified SA by the NC Department of Environment. Health and Natural
the map by the , prresponding numbers:
Resources, Most tidal salt water streams, however, have been design#(e&i SCi;above certain 1 Shallo�liutiver Watershed (most of)
points, as follows: 2 Saucep Creek, above the lower reach (most oo % y
..�
�,; 3 Lockwo rFolly River, above Varnumtown, lower unit
SC Waters /+
4 Beaverz Creek above mouth of Polly Gully Creek
Q41
1 Shallotte River above the Mill Pond to NC 130 in Shallotte 5 Dutch m a Creek above the CP&L Canal ' "�`
2 Saucepan Creek, above the lower reach 7 Waldoh reek "; ,r
3 Lockwood Folly River, above Varnumtown a ' • a ''i ' "�
4 Beaverdam Creek above mouth of Polly Gully Creek od % ••'• „.;. +i,i No hwest
5 Dutchman's Creek above the CP&L Canal WATER OUAt,I'Y CONCERNS na� 'Y
.. /�.,.
6 Snow Marsh The following streams have been identified as having some level of water quality concern, as / • + t
7 Waldon Creek noted below'. Thp locations are noted on the map by their corresponding letters:
a Cape Fear River, from Snow Marsh north %
SA waters are high quality waters suitable for shellfishing, primary recreation and other uses. A Cape Fear River, north of Town Creek Non -Supporting Water ''"
SA SB t and are not suitable for shellfishing or B Mulbury Creek Partially Supporting Water Sandy Creek
C q
SC waters are of lessor quality than or wa ers C Town reek Partially Supporting Water / �o
primary recreation The locations of these streams or stream segments are noted on the map D Shallotte River, north of Shallotte Non -Supporting Water
below by their corresponding numbers. -�
E Cawcaw Swamp Partially Supporting Water / -'•,
FRESH WATERS F Unnamed Stream, north of Ash Non -Supporting Water
G Juniper Creek, South Branch Partially Supporting Water
t••1 t'
1 All significant fresh water creeks within the geograph of Brunswick County have been
y 'Many other streams and stream segments in Brunswick County have been designated as Support Threatened a
classified C by the NC Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. Class C Waters. For complete information on water quality designations in Brunswick County. please visit the Brunswick
waters are of lessor quality than Class B or other higher quality classifications and are not County Planning Department where mapped information is retained on file for public inspection. n
suitable for water supplies or for primary recreation.
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The preparation of this map 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, E;F
which is administered by the Office of Ocean and
Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration.
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r� ' Existing Land Use
andWater Map
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Municipal (Not in Planning Area)
B►' ir a 1
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• Bald Head Island
Note: Due to map scale, this existing land use map is necessarily generalized in
nature, and is intended for general planning purposes only. For more detailed
information and mapping, please consult with the Brunswick County Planning
Department.
Indicates general location of
ridge lines of watershed areas
Brunswick County
LAND USE PLAN
1997 Update
Glenn Harbeck Associates
Planning and Public Involvement
SCALE IN MILES
a
/ NORTH 11 1 2 3 4
a

i
1997 County -Wide Requests to N.C. Dept. of Transportation, Division 3
for inclusion in the State's official Transportation Improvement Program '• - -�
` Sri 41„! ir` { % �'-- -•,-'��q 1. 1• �,
to Oak Island: (R-2245) 9. Four -lane Village Rd. (SR 1472) from US 17 to Lanvale Rd. V ' �' Y A r,,,
1 • Second Bridge g increased traffic in the Leland area
i ac
commodate nc. �`" ,•
This bridge would alleviate significant traffic congestion and provide a much needed second To accommo�° LI. ,• ».. 1•114 No West
evacuation route in the event of a ma or storm or industrial incident. 10. Interchange at US 74-76 & Old Fayetteville Rd.
To allow better access to the Middle 8 High School. 1 � loop
2. Wilmington Bypass (R-2633)
n estion concerns in and around Wilmington as well to meet the traffic resulting 11. Upgrade NC 133 from near Belville to near BrunswickTown
To relieve cog '
from the population growth in the northern part of Brunswick County. To include widening and improvements in several areas including curves near Old Town. q�a� • �'" �''1'`<`
Midway Rd. SR 1500 /Galloway Rd. (SR 1401) 12. Alternate route to S. Brunswick Island Beaches from NC l�
3. y ( ) r
Upgrade Midway Rd. and Galloway Rd. from NC 211 to US 17 Bypass to accommodate Beach -bound traffic from Whiteville could use SR 1300 (Ash -Little River Rd.) or SR 1321 / Sandy Crp�k
p (Longwood Rd.) to the Calabash, Sunset Beach Ocean Isle Beach area and thus avoid
increased traffic from the new Oak Island bridge. _
Dosher Cut -Off ,R-2334): (NC 211 to NC 87) congestion in the Shallotte area. Signage on NC 130 in the Ash area could accomplish this. � ,`_`__ , - y,�
4 To alleviate congestion and near the existing Dosher Cut Off and traffic on NC 211, 133 8 13. Improve NC 130 from the Waccamaw River to near Shallotte - s� Nav ssa
' <
87.To handle increasing amounts of traffic (particularly on the weekends). � (►1
IPII• 1 i +Ml,�,, A
5. Georgetown Rd. Extension (SR 1163) 14. Southern High -Rise Bridge to US 17 T
4 mile Rd. to NC 179 near its northern intersection with Hale To improve traffic flow to -from Brunswick County and southern New Hanover County as well
Section from Ocean Isle Rd ( ) - -- So
�
Swamp Rd. To decrease summer season traffic congestion in the S. Brunswick Islands area. as enhance economic development opportunities in the greater Leland area. loop
k { Leland It
1,is6. Mt. Pisgah Rd. (SR 1130) Sanitary
Upgrade from US 17 to Holden Beach Rd. (NC 130) to provide an alternate route to Holden It / "
Beach and relieve traffic on NC 130 during the summer tourist season.—•—_—._..__ _._._ _•__,_ _ �"'r—� loop' Zj Lei/nd '
7. Lanvale Rd. (SR 1438) �� d
b�'a r cb
Lanvale Rd. from US 17 to US 74-76 has several alignment problems that need addressing. .�,, a, /ti 1•.•u1
., \
r U rades —.— s1 � �'
8. Review Intersections for Traffic Signals o pg o `
� ,' e� � elvl�� �
•US17&County Club Dr. fCommunityMap
•US17d1SR1184 ✓' ••'
• NC 87 & Cougar Dr. (Boiling Spring Lakes) j "—• r
• NC 179 &Count Club Dr. "' _ — _ ` � �• � � �• "'• ,•n • � lVg ��l •
y /r ( '
tilt
• Georgetown Rd. & NC 904 '
I/Y r,w• 1•W /• •,i T \ �� • � /
' '�• • Sewage Service Areas
' , "' •� _ 1 Ll Water System Trunk Lines � Y
11— •r ••r••�• a ,, 1•r
�• • - IV 11� ,Ir r••111 INI •
S 'Ir •,Ir • Future Water Trunk Lines
_1.O1 L �.M/.Nr / ',.-� , • , JRL- • 1•,• v I.r r� i' • • 1
so#
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-810
,Ir /w t .�•... ��w •. ~� • '.'. ► 1..' : I County Parks
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Bolivia ' •:
p Airstrip
rill � y2: '.;• z � � t � _ : `t
POND
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a .w - .t.' . _ ' Hospital
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Sanitary y ... Co.f -.- .,�� rLandfill
Shallotte + _ oitrng 3prin��
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loop �. t;.=� r ••=;b,. Municipal (Not in Planning Area)
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South Brunswick
Water and Sewer Au mil' , :. "' 11, ••.•-,!� 3 J `�y/
.
Is
mtown 0 ••. -�
...•••• '".
II... .o y •
1 1 r
utheastern s
Sa 'tary Dist •{»
f t
o
� �, 1
Calabash f �• .
1
I
The preparation of this map was financed
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 Ocean and
Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration.
rf_" Beach,
r1.n► J�
: P
g � t
s
*CIA" Beh a• ch,
r 11►1 1..'0► r I M ,
Ocea Isle Beach 1 C x _ '
uu►o
♦ fIw.10 •r
tow ' Yaupon Bela �VJ -1
r y � {f't
'� riolra. r u ,
(✓asWell ea �
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IKNy
.» Bald Head Island
Brunswick County
LAND USE PLAN
1997 Update
Glenn Harbeck Associates
Planning and Public Involvement
SCALE IN MILES
NORTH 0 1 2 3 4
Indicates general location of
ridge lines of watershed areas
I

0
0
Hazardous Areas Map
Notes:
' There are two floodprone areas under the County's jurisdiction which are classified
as "V-zones", meaning that they could be subject to high velocity wind and water
damage during a major storm event. These two areas are located on either side of
the Lockwood Folly Inlet at the mouth of the River. They are identified on the map in
solid black.
2 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.
Indicates general location of
ridge lines of watershed areas
Miscellaneous Man -Made Hazards
In addition to the generalized hazardous areas identified on the map
below, there are also several miscellaneous man-made hazards which
-'�- can also be mapped. They are:
1 Carolina Power and Light nuclear facility
2 Railroad corridor associated with the Sunny Point Ocean Terminal
3 Archer Daniels Midland chemical facility
4 Dupont chemical facility
5 Three general purpose airstrips
As noted in the text, 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. The locations of these various facilities are noted on
the map by their corresponding numbers.
O
Brunswick County
LAND USE PLAN
1997 Update
Glenn Harbeck Associates
Planning and Public Involvement
SCALE IN MILES
d
NORTH 0 1 2 3 4
13

0
■ F:
ow,
:il[0
Q1e
F1
Yd
0 Municipal -Not in Planning
RURAL AREAS"
CONSERVATION AREAS
uns maF
Iasaof
•
-
Brunswick County
AND USE PLP
i (](]7 I Iv-%rin+rn
ere-VoW : FTil iT:To4 W T.-'f..-YeTel FeI is

DCM COPY DCM COPY
lease do not remove!!!!!
Division of Coastal Management Copy
f
Brunswick Cowie _L nrse Plan
1997 Updat i i
Submitted for State P.eVew
November, 1997
Recommended by the Brunswick Cour ity Nlann'log Scard
May 18, 1998
Adopted ny the Brunswick County Boai-o of Cor .-Pissioners
October 5, 1998
Adopted as ilevised, December 7, 1998
::;ertified by the North Carolina Coastal Resources Commissio-
November 20, 1998

Brunswick County Land Use Plan
1997 Update
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Jo Ann B. Simmons, Chairman,
William M. Sue, Vice Chairman
Leslie Z. Collier
David Sandifer
Donald E. Warren
Jimmy Varner, County Manager
Robert Hyatt, Assistant County Manager
Joyce C. Johnson, Clerk to the Board
COUNTY PLANNING BOARD
Ricky Tompkins, Chairman
Alan Lewis, Vice Chairman
Boyd Evans
Sharon Marshall
Jo Ann B. Simmons
Stuart Smith
John Thompson, Past Chair
Beverly Brown, Past Member
BRUNSWICK COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT
Jeff Coutu, AICP, Planning Director
Don Eggert, AICP, Planner II
Brian Huneycutt, Land Planner
Connie Marlowe, Administrative Assistant
GLENN HARBECK ASSOCIATES
Glenn R. Harbeck, AICP
Planning and Public Involvement
5607 Keswick Court
Wilmington, NC 28409
STATE REPRESENTATIVES
Zoe Bruner, District Planner
Rosetta Short, CRAC Representative
The preparation of this document 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 Ocean and
Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

1
Contents
1
1.
EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY........................................................................1-1
1 .1
Summary of Local Land Use Issues...............................................1-1
1
1.2
1.3
Policy Statements.....................................................................1-2
The Land Classification System..................................................1-14
2.
INTRODUCTION.................................................................................2-1
2.1
2.2
.............
Why prepare a CAMA Land Use Plan?. `............................ ...2-1
Functions of the Land Use Plan...................................................2-1
3.
COMMUNITY VISION AND OBJECTIVES..................................................3-1
3.1
Community Vision......................................................................3-1
1
3.2
Objectives...............................................................................3-1
4.
SUMMARY OF DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS..................................4-1
4.1
Establishment of Information Base................................................4-1
1
4.2
Some Findings .from the Technical Studies.....................................4-1
4.3
For Further Information...............................................................4-2
1
5.
PRESENT
CONDITIONS.......................................................................5-1
5.1
Present Population and Economy.................................................5-1
5.1.1
Population and Housing .................................. ...........................................................
5-1
1
5.1.2
5.1.3
Local Economy..........................................:.........................................................5-1
Impact of Seasonal Population..............................................................................5-24
5
5.2
Existing Land Use and Water Quality Analysis...............................5-26
5.2.1
Existing Land Uses Mapped.............................................................................5-26
5.2.2
Analysis by Geographic Areas of General Recognition............................................5-26
'
5.2.3
Land Use Analysis by Watershed Areas ............................ :....................................
5-29
5.3
Current Plans, Policies and* Regulations......................................5-31
'
6.
CONSTRAINTS....................................................................
.. ............
6-1
6.1
Land Suitability.........................................................................6-1
6.1.1
Physical Limitations for Development...................................................................... 6-1
'
A. Major Hazard Areas........................................................................................... 6-1
B. Areas with Soil Limitations................................................................................. 6-2
C. Potable. Water Supply......................................................................................
6-3
D. Areas with Slopes Exceeding 12%....................................................................
6-3
E. Shoreline Areas with High Erosion Potential......................................................
6-3
'
F. Small Watersheds Draining Into Special Waters ..................................................
6-4
6.1.2
Fragile Areas.........................................................................................................
6-4
6.1.3
Areas with Resource Potential................................................................................
6-6
1
6.2
Community Facilities and Services ...... .... ..... .........................
6-9
6.2.1
Potable Water System . ....
6-9
6.2.2
Sewer.................................................................................................................6-10
1
6.2.3
6.2.4
Stormwater Management......................................................................................6
Transportation.....................................................................................................6
-12
-1 2
6.2.5
Law Enforcement.................................................................................................6
-16
6.2.6
Fire and Rescue..................................................................................................6
-16
1
6.2.7
6.2.8
Schools...............................................................................................................6
Library System.....................................................................................................6
-1 8
-1 9
6.2.9
Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Access.............................................................
6 -19
6.2.10
Solid Waste Management....................................................................................6
- 2 0
1 6.2.11 Public Administrative Capability.............................................................................6 - 2 0

Contents Continued
7. ANTICIPATED DEMAND.......................................................................7-1
7.1
Permanent and Seasonal Populations...........................................7-1
7.2
Future Land Use Needs..............................................................7-4
7.3
Community Facility and Service Demands.......................................7-4
8. POLICY STATEMENTS........................................................................8-1
Introduction to the Policies..................................................................8-1
PolicyFormat
.....................................................................................8-2
8.0
General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years.......................................8-2
8.1
Resource Protection Policies......................................................8-2
8.1.0
Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Protection ........................................... 8-2
8.1.1
Constraints Caused by Soil Limitations and Flood Prone Areas ................................. 8-2
8.1.2
Areas of Environmental Concern............................................................................. 8-3
A. Coastal Wetlands............................................................................................. 8-4
B. Estuarine Waters..............................................................................................8-4
C. Public Trust Waters.......................................................................................... 8-5
D. Estuarine Shorelines............................................................ ".:........................ 8-5
E. Ocean Hazard Areas......................................................................................... 8-6
F. Public Water Supply AEC's............................................................................... 8-7
G. Natural and Cultural Resource AEC's.................................................................8-8
H. Wildlife Protection............................................................................................8-8
8.1.3
Wetlands of Highest Functional Significance............................................................
8-8
8.1.4
A. Freshwater Wetlands......................................................................................8-1
0
B. Maritime Forests.............................................................................................8-1
0
C. Outstanding Resource Waters........................................................................8-1
1
D. Shellfishing Waters........................................................................................8-11
E. Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values ................................
8 -12
F. Cultural and Historic Resources.......................................................................8-12
G. Man -Made Hazards.........................................................................................
8 -1 2
H. Hazardous Materials and Events......................................................................8-13
8.1.5
Protection of Potable Water Supply.......................................................................8-13
8.1.6
Package Sewage Treatment Plants.......................................................................8-1
6
8.1.7
Storm Water Runoff..............................................................................................8
-17
8.1.8
A. Marinas............................................................................................................8
-1 8
B. Floating Home Development..........................................................................8-1
8
C. Moorings and Mooring Fields..........................................................................8-1
8
D. Dry Stack Storage...........................................................................................8-19
E. Commercial Fishing Operations ...........................................:::...
8.1.9
Industrial Impacts On Fragile Areas..............................................::.......................8
-19
8.1.10
Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands..................::........................8-20
8.1.11
Development Near Sea Level ..... ...................... ................... .... .............................
8-21
8.1.12
Upland Excavation for Marina Basins ............ ..........................................................
8-21
8.1.13
Marsh Damage From Bulkhead Installation.............................................................8
- 2 2
8.1.14
Water Quality Problems and Management Measures..............................................8-22
8.1.15
Air Quality ............................................................................................................8
- 2 2
8.2
Resource Production and Management Policies............................8-24
8.2.0
Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Production and Management.............8-24
8.2.1
Productive Agricultural Lands...............................................................................8-24
8.2.2
Commercial Forest Lands.....................................................................................8-25
8.2.3
Mineral Production Areas —Existing and Potential..................................................8-25
8.2.4
Fisheries Resources............................................................................................8-25
8.2.5
Off Road Vehicles................................................................................................8
- 2 6
8.2.6
Development Impacts...........................................................................................8-26
8.2.7
Peat or Phosphate Mining Impacts........................................................................8-27
8.2.8
Gamelands/Hunting Clubs....................................................................................8-27
8.3
Economic and Community Development Policies ...........................8-28
8.3.0
Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic & Community Development ...............8-28
8.3.1
Types and Locations of Industries Desired.................................:...........................8-28
Contents Page 2

Contents Continued
8.3.2
Provision of Services to Development...................................................................8-29
8.3.3
Urban Growth Pattern Desired...............................................................................8-30
8.3.4
Types of Residential Development Desired...........................................................8-30
8.3.5
Types of Commercial Development Desired...........................................................8-31
8.3.6
Redevelopment, Including Relocation of Threatened Structures ............................ 8 - 3 3
8.3.7
Commitment to State and Federal Programs..........................................................8-33
8.3.8
Channel Maintenance and Beach Renourishment..................................................8-34
8.3.9
Energy Facility Siting and Development.................................................................8-35
8.3.10
Tourism..............................................................................................................8-35
8.3.11
Beach Waterfront and Boating Access...................................................................8-36
8.3.12
Beautification.......................................................................................................8-38
8.3.13
Airports...............................................................................................................8-39
8.3.14
Education............................................................................................................8-39
8.3.15
Solid Waste. Management..................................................................................... 8 - 4 0
8.3.16
Growth and Development Controls........................................................................8-41
8.3.17
Tree Cover, Landscaping and Buffering................................................................8-41
8.3.18
Transportation......................................................................................................8 - 4 2
8.3.19
Sunny -Point Military Ocean.Terminal......................................................................8
- 4 2
8.3.20
Capital Improvement Planning...............................................................................8
- 4 3
8.3.21
Parks and Recreation...........................................................................................
8 - 4 3
8.3.22
Long Range Planning..........................................................................................8
- 4 4
8.4.
Public Participation Policies......................................................8-45
8.4.0
Basic Policy Statement Regarding Continuing Public Participation ..........................8-45
8.5
Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery & Evacuation Plans8-47
8.5.0
Description of Storm Hazard Risk and Basic Policy Statement..................................8-47
A. Storm Effects.................................................................................................
8 - 4 7
B. Hazard Areas Mapped....................................................................................
8 - 4 8
C. Existing Development At Risk.....................................................................
8 - 4 8
8.5.1
Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies............................................................................8-49
A. Storm Effect Mitigation...................................................................................8
- 4 9
B. Discouragement of Hazardous Development...................................................8-51
C. Public Land Acquisition..................................................................................8
- 5 2
D. Evacuation....................................................................................................
8 - 5 2
8.5.2
Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies...................................................................8
- 5 2
A. Emergency Management Plan........................................................................8-53
B. Local Reconstruction Policies.........................................................................8-53
C. Recovery Task Force......................................................................................
8 - 5 3
D. Staging Schedule for Reconstruction and Repair .............................................
8 - 5 4
E. Public Infrastructure Repairs'and-Replacement................................................8-55
8.6
Bald Head Island Policies:.........................................................8-58
8.6.1
Resource Protection Policies................................................................................8
- 5 6
8.6.2
Resource Production and Management Policies....................................................8-56
8.6.3
Economic and Community Development Policies...................................................8-57
8.6.4.
Public Participation Policies..................................................................................8
- 5 8
8.6.5
Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery & Evacuation Plans ......................
8-5 8
9. LAND CLASSIFICATION.......................................................................9-1
9.1 Purpose of Land Classification and Relationship to Policies ..............9 -1
9.2 Land Classification System.............................................................................9-1
9.3 Land Classification Map..............................................................9 -1
9.4 Land Classification Areas Described.............................................9-1
10. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION..............................................10-1
10.1 Uses of the Land Use Plan........................................................10-1
10.2 Coordination with Other Governmental Jurisdictions ......................10-1
10.3 Municipal Land Use Plans.........................................................10-2
Contents Page 3

Contents Continued
11. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN AND PROCESS.....................................1 1-1
1 1 .1 Public Participation Plan..............................................................................1 1-1
11.2 Public Involvement Process ...................... ..............................1 1-1
12. APPENDICES..........................................................................................................12-1
12.1 Evaluation of Effectiveness of Previous Land Use Plan ..................12 -1
12.2 Sources and Locations of More Detailed Information ......................12-2
12.3 Action Agenda For the Land use Plan........................................................12-2
List of Tables and Charts
Table 5.1.1 (a)
Population Growth Comparison, County, State ------------- --- ---- --------- 5-1
Chart 5.1.1 (a)
Population Growth Curves, County, State--------- -- ------- —---- — 5_2
Table 5.1.1 (b)
Population Growth Dynamics ------- ------------ ------------------ 5-3
Chart 5.1.1 (b)
Natural Increase and Net Migration ---------------- --------- 5-3
Table 5.1.1 (c)
Population Growth by Township, 1980-1990-------_________--______—___________ 5-4
Chart 5.1.1 (c)
Population Growth by Township, 1980-1990---
Table 5.1.1 (d)
Municipal Population Growth, 1980-1990---- --—----- —--- ----- 5-5
Chart 5.1.1 (d)
Municipal Population Growth, 1980-1990---_—__--_____--------5-6
Table 5.1.1 (e)
Population in Incorporated Versus Unincorporated Areas, 1980-1990------ ----- — --- 5-7
Chart 5.1.1 (e)
Population in Incorporated Versus Unincorporated Areas, 1980-1990------------ 5-7
Table 5.1.1 (f)
Housing Growth by Township, 1980-1990_—________________________— -------------- _----- 5-8
Chart 5.1.1 (f)
Housing Units by Township, 1980-1990-------------______—__—_____________ 5-8
Table 5.1.1 (g)
Housing Characteristics, 1990, County, Selected Counties—__________________________ 5-9
Chart 5.1.1 (g)(1)
% of Housing Tied to Public Sewers, 1990, County, Selected Counties ------- — --- 5-9
Chart 5.1.1 (g)(2)
% of Total Housing in Mobile Homes, 1990, County, Selected Counties----------- 5-10
Table 5.1.1 (h)(1)
Percent of Residential Permits Issued For Mobile Homes by Brunswick County— 5-10
Table 5.1.1 (h)(2)
Percent of Residential Permits Issued For Mobile Homes by Municipalities------ 5-1 Oa
Table 5.1.1 (i)(1)
Age Groups in Brunswick County as a % of Total Population, 1940-90------- 5-11
Chart 5.1.1 (i)(1)
Population Age Composition, 1940 to 1990--_________________—__—___________ 5-11
Table 5.1.1 (i)(2)
Percent of County Population 65 Years & Over, County, State, 1970-1990------ 5-12
Chart 5.1.1 (i)(2)
Percent of County Population 65 Years & Over, County, State, 1970-1990---- 5-12
Table 5.1.1 0)
Racial Composition of Brunswick County, 1950-95--------------------- 5-13
Chart 5.1.1 Q)
Racial Composition of Brunswick County, 1950-95---_--____—_____—________ 5-13
Table 5.1.1 (k)(1)
% of Adults (Aged 25+) With a High School Diploma, 1990----------------- 5-14
Table 5.1.1 (k)(2)
Ave. Drop -Out Rate, Selected Counties, Region O, 1982, 1988, 1994---------- 5-14
Table 5.1.2 (a)(1)
Manufacturing. Vs Non -Manufacturing Employment, Selected Years 1970-95--- 5-15
Table 5.1.2 (a)(2)
Employment by Sector, County and State, 1994---------------- —---- ---- 5-15
Chart 5.1.2 (a)(2)
Percent of Employment by Sector, County and State, 1994—_----------- 5-16
Table 5.1.2 (b)
Ave Weekly Wage by Major Employment Category, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994 --- 5-17
Chart 5.1.2 (b)
Ave Weekly Wage by Major Employment Category, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994 --- 5-17
Table 5.1.2 (c)
Insured Employment by Major Category, County, State, 1983, 1990, and 1994— 5-18
Chart 5.1.2 (c)
Employment Trends by Major Sector, 1983-1994, Brunswick County--------------- 5-19
Table 5.1.2 (d)
Unemployment Rates, Brunswick, New Hanover County, State, 1987-1997----- 5-20
Chart 5.1.2 (d)
Unemployment Rates, Brunswick, New Hanover County, State, 1987-1997------- 5-20
Table 5.1.2 (e)
Per Capita Income, County, State, 1970, 1980, 1989 and 1994------------- 5-20
Chart 5.1.2 (e)
Per Capita Income, County, State, 1970, 1980, 1989 and 1994------------------ 5-21
Table 5.1.2 (f)
Agricultural Income and Harvested Cropland, Brunswick County, 1980-1994---- 5-21
Chart 5.1.2 (f)
Cropland and Farm Income, Brunswick County, 1980-1994---------------------- 5-22
Chart 5.1.2 (g)
Number and Size of Farms, Brunswick County, 1982-1992-------- ----------- ---- 5-22
Table 5.1.2 (h)
Seafood Landings, Poundage and Value, Brunswick County, 1986-1996-------- 5-23
Chart 5.1.2 (h)
Seafood Landings, Poundage and Value, Brunswick County, 1986-1996----- 5-23
Table 5.1.3 (a)
Year Round and Seasonal Population Growth, Brunswick County, 1980-1995---- 5-24
Table 5.1.3 (b)
Year Round and Seasonal Housing Growth, Brunswick County, 1980-1990 ----- 5-24
Table 5.1.3 (c)
Gross Retail Sales by Month, 1990-------------------------------------------------------- 5-25
Chart 5.1.3 (c)
Gross Retail Sales by Month, 1990----------------------------------------- 5-25
Table 6.1.1 (f)
Small Watersheds Draining Into Special Waters --- —------------------ ---- ----------- — ---- _--- 6-4
Contents Page 4

IContents Continued
IList of Tables and Charts, Continued
Table 6.2.7
Brunswick County Schools, Capacity and Utilization, 1997-98
--- 6-18
'
Table 6.2.9
Brunswick County Area Parks —Current Amenities, 1997--------- _____
--- 6-19
Table 7.1.1
Projected Population, 2000, 2010, 2020 ---
Chart 7.1.1
Population Projections, 2000, 2010, 2020
- ---7-1
'
Table 7.1.2
Estimated Peak Day Total Population, 2000, 2010, 2020
7-3
Table7.2
Population Projections by Incorporated Vs. Unincorporated Areas-----
w--
---7-4
List of Maps
Map 1
Fragile Areas Map ---- --- ----- -----Back
of Plan
Map 2
Aquifer Sensitivity Map_ —
Back of Plan
'
Map 3
Map
Watersheds and Drainage Patterns -Map ---------- —_
Existing LandUseand-Water Use Map— -----------Back
Back of Plan
of Plan
Map 5
Community Facilities Map --Back
of Plan
Map 6
Hazardous Areas Map-- - ---------Back of Plan
Map 7 Land Classification Map ------------Back of Plan
I
Contents Page 5

m

1. Executive Summary
I
i1
1. Executive Summary
This executive summary consists of three parts:
1.1 Summary of Local Land Use Issues
A summary of some of the salient issues being faced by Brunswick County at the
present time and anticipated to be an on -going concern over the coming months or years.
1.2 Policy Statements
The County's officially adopted positions and statements of principle concerning growth
and development issues in Brunswick County.
1.3 The Land Classification System
A method for translating the County's growth and development policies to specific parts of
the county, recognizing that not all parts of the county are alike.
For a more complete discussion of the issues as well as the rationale for the various policy
statements, the reader is directed to the full body of the Land Use Plan, beginning with
Section 2. Each element of the Executive Summary will now be presented in turn.
1.1 Summary of Local Land Use Issues
As Brunswick County approaches the year 2000, the County is beginning to feel the effects of
nearly three decades of rapid growth. This Land Use Plan addresses several of these
development issues in the County. Among the most critical are:
Scattered and sprawling, large lot subdivision activity.
Brunswick County continues to witness the addition of numerous, large lot, scattered
subdivisions and planned unit developments over significant portions of the area's rural
landscape. Rather than promoting a distinct town and country pattern, this form of sprawling
development breaks up rural open spaces and tends to create a homogenous look across the
landscape. Such scattered subdivision activity also disperses the population and makes the
provision of services expensive and inconvenient, whether by the public or by the private
sector. As a result, all trips for services must be by individual automobile, to the exclusion of
walking, biking, or other alternative transportation modes. Ultimately, this form of development
overloads the county's road systems, especially during peak season summer months.
' Unplanned commercial strip development.
Commercial development which has been stripped along the County's major roads foretells of the
kind of commercialism that could consume much of the road frontage in the county in the near
future. This was identified as a major concern by residents at the public workshops for the 1992
' Land Use Plan and again for the 1997 Plan. 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. While this is
something that can be addressed to some degree by the County's new zoning ordinance, it
' requires considerable public resolve and determination to limit strip commercial development to
crossroads locations and other selected, appropriate areas.
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.
page 1-1

1. Executive Summary
Concern About Storm Water Runoff and Drainage.
Stormwater management continues to grow as one of the most pressing growth issues of the
1990's. Brunswick County is fundamentally low and flat, and is bounded by highly sensitive,
environmentally productive coastal waters. As development continues to occur, stormwater runoff
from roads, parking lots, driveways, rooftops and even grassed lawn areas is increased
substantially. While drainage and flooding problems are not unique to Brunswick County, they
are certainly a major problem for many residents of the community, and are of long term concern to
the natural productivity of the estuarine system.
These emerging trends are not intended, by any means, to represent the full range of issues
confronting Brunswick County. They are indicative, however, of an area undergoing tremendous
growth and development pressures without adequate systems of infrastructure to support and
direct such growth. A successful future for Brunswick County will be dependent in large measure
on the degree to which the County and its numerous local governments can effectively manage
growth in concert with critical infrastructure improvements. The policies which follow are intended
to help guide the decisions necessary to. make the effort work.
1.2 Policy Statements
8.0 General Vision Policy for the Next Ten Years
We, the residents, businesses, and property owners of Brunswick County shall seek to
preserve and enhance our natural and human resources, and will plan for and accommodate
future growth while simultaneously maintaining and improving the quality of life for current
and future residents.
8.1 RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICIES
8.1.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Protection
The natural and scenic resources of Brunswick County enable many business owners and
employees to earn a livelihood, residents to have a high quality of life, and visitors to enjoy
the many attractive features of the area. Brunswick County, through its policies and actions,
shall not support or approve any action which would significantly jeopardize the long term
viability of our natural and scenic resources.
8.1.1 Constraints To Development: Soils, Septic Tank Suitability, Flooding
Policy 8.1.1(a)
Development is encouraged to locate In areas without soil suitability problems and where
Infrastructure is available. In areas where suitability problems exist, engineering solutions
are supported to the extent that the natural environment is not compromised.
Policy 8.1.1(b)
In the absence of sewer facilities, the County shall work cooperatively with property owners
to evaluate site suitability for septic tank use. When soil conditions are such that, in the
opinion of County sanitarians, health or environmental standards would be compromised, full
explanation of the reasons for denial shall be given, and alternatives for possible solutions
provided.
Policy 8.1.1(c)
Brunswick County supports the administration and enforcement of applicable flood plain
management regulations and the national flood insurance program.
8.1.2 Areas of Environmental Concern
Brunswick County will support and enforce, through Its local CAMA permitting capacity, the
State policies and permitted uses in the Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's). Such uses
shall be in accord with the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters,
public trust areas and ocean hazard areas as stated in 15A NCAC Subchapter 7H.
8.1.2(a) Coastal Wetland AEC's
Policy 8.1.2(a)
Due to the critical role that wetlands play in protecting the quality of estuarine waters and in
providing habitat for fish and wildlife, Brunswick County strongly supports the efforts of
page 1-2

1. Executive Summary
F
State and Federal agencies to properly designate and preserve coastal wetlands. Such
preservation 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.
8.1.2(b) Estuarine Water AEC's
Policy 8.1.2(b)
Developments and mitigation activities which support and enhance the natural function,
cleanliness, salinity, and circulation of estuarine water resources shall be supported.
8.1.2(c) Public Trust Waters AEC's
Policy 8.1.2(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 are especially supported.
8.1.2(d) Estuarine Shoreline AEC's
Policy 8.1.2 (d)
Brunswick County supports the protection and preservation of its estuarine shorelines, as
enforced through the application of CAMA use standards.
8.1.2(e) Ocean Hazard Area AEC's
Policy 8.1.2 (a)
Brunswick County supports state and federal standards for the management of development
In the ocean hazard AECs under the County's planning jurisdiction: the Baptist assembly
grounds and part of Bird Island.
8.1.2(f) Public Water Supply AEC's
Policy 8.1.2(f)
Brunswick County supports the designation of Public Water Supply AEC's when such
designation meets State prerequisites and when such .action is deemed necessary to ensure
the long term viability of the County's public water supplies.
8.1.2(g) Natural and Cultural Resource AEC's
Policy 8.1.2(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).
8.1.2(h) Wildlife Protection
Policy 8.1.2(h)
The -abundance and diversity of wildlife in Brunswick County shall be preserved and
enhanced through protection of the unique coastal ecosystems, including marshes,
woodlands, open fields and other areas upon which they depend.
8.1.3 Wetlands of Highest Functional Significance
(Awaiting for development of mapped information by the State as applicable to Brunswick County)
8.1.4 Other Hazardous or Fragile Land Areas
8.1.4 (a) Freshwater Swamps, Marshes, Pocosins, and 404 Wetlands
Policy 8.1.4 (a)
Brunswick County will continue to support the efforts of the CAMA program and the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers 404 permitting program to preserve and protect sensitive fresh
water swamp and marsh areas.
' 8.1.4(b) Maritime Forests
Policy 8.1.4 (b)
Maritime forests in Brunswick County shall receive a high level of environmental protection
when considering public and private sector uses. When development is considered, preferred
' usage shall be for low intensity or clustered development forms, which preserve the majority
of forest cover. (See also Policy 8.3.18 Tree cover and Landscaping)
page 1-3

1. Executive Summary
8.1.4.(c) Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW)
Policy 8.1.4 (c)
Brunswick County supports State and local efforts 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.
8.1.4(d) Shellfishing Waters
Policy 8.1.4(d)
The County supports and encourages the activities of the State's Shellfish Management
Program. The County shall continue to promote estuarine water quality through Its
stormwater management planning and stormwater runoff policies. (See Section 8.1.7)
8.1.4(e) Water Supply Areas/Other Waters With Special Values
Policy 8.1.4(e)
The county's ground water resources, including but not limited to the Castle Hayne aquifer,
shall be recognized as an invaluable source of public and private potable water and shall
receive the highest level of protection when considering County policies, standards and
actions, including the possible creation of a special overlay district.
8.1.4(f) Cultural and Historic Resources
Policy 8.1.4(f)
Brunswick County encourages efforts to protect cultural and historic resources to preserve
their cultural, educational and aesthetic values and qualities.
8.1.4(g) Manmade Hazards
Policy 8.1.3 (g)
Brunswick County will seek to minimize potential land use conflicts and hazards related to
development in areas near existing, potentially hazardous facilities.
8.1.4(h) Hazardous Materials and Events
Policy 8.1.4(h)
Plans for the safe transportation of hazardous materials, for the prevention and clean-up of
spills of toxic materials, and for the evacuation of area residents In response to hazardous
events, shall be supported.
Hurricane and Flood Evacuation (Covered under Section 8.5)
8.1.5 Protection of Potable Water Supply
Policy 8.1.5(a)
Brunswick County supports federal, state and local efforts to protect the quantity and
quality of water In the Cape Fear River, whether such protection Involves controls over point
source discharges, surface runoff, inter basin water transfers, or other appropriate means,
Including upstream activities.
Policy 8.1.5(b)
Brunswick County supports federal, state and local efforts to protect the quantity and
quality of water In the region's groundwater system, whether such protection involves
controls over the location and management of activities involving hazardous substances,
restrictions on groundwater drawdowns, or any other activity which would jeopardize the
short and long term viability of groundwater resources.
Policy 8.1.5(c)
Brunswick County will continue improvements to and expansion of the County's potable,
piped water supply system, with emphasis on the development of a self supporting operation,
where costs are assigned in relative proportion to the benefits conveyed.
Policy 8.1.5(d)
So as to facilitate the orderly development of the County water system, Brunswick County
shall establish and maintain utility extension and tap -on policies designed to address the
timing, location, priorities and sequence, etc. of system expansion.
8.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants
Policy 8.1.6
Brunswick County advocates the development and use of regional sewage treatment plants
page 1-4

1. Executive Summary
over smaller, privately operated package sewage treatment plants. When package treatment
plants are employed, they should be designed to allow for future connections to a larger
regional system.
8.1.7 Stormwater Runoff
Policy 8.1.7(a)
Brunswick County shall. take a proactive role in the development of storm water management
and design standards intended to protect the quality of the county's streams, rivers,
marshes and estuarine systems.
' Policy 8.1.7(b)
Brunswick County shall support a program of vegetated buffers adjacent to all streams,
rivers, marshes and estuarine waters in the county, with the Intent of reducing the flow of
nutrients and other contaminants into area surface waters.
' Policy 8.1.7 (c)
Brunswick County shall advocate a policy of stormwater, .runoff management in which post -
development runoff has a rate of flow and volume which approximates, as closely as
practical, pre -development conditions.
8.1.8(a) Marinas
Policy-8.1.8(a)
As a means of providing public access to area surface waters, Brunswick County encourages
environmentally responsible marina development in accordance with State CAMA standards
for AEC's. Marina facilities also shall be evaluated for site specific compatibility with
surrounding land uses, as well as for aesthetic concerns, parking, access, and available
services.
' 8.1.8(b) Floating Home Development
Policy 8.1.8(b)
Brunswick County discourages floating home development anywhere in the waterways, public
' trust waters, and along the shorelines of the county, so as to prevent the unwanted
"consumption" of the county's limited estuarine surface waters.
8.1.8(c) Moorings and Mooring Fields
' Policy 8.1.8(c)
The desirability of freestanding moorings and mooring fields shall be evaluated on a case by
case basis In accordance with CAMA development policies and standards. The unimpeded
use of and navigation within public trust surface waters by the boating public shall be of
' concern.
8.1.8(d) Dry Stack Storage
Policy 8.1.8(d)
' To minimize "consumption of valuable public trust surface waters, dry stack storage
marinas generally shall be preferred over wetslip marinas. Dry stack storage facilities shall
be evaluated for site specific compatibility with surrounding land uses, as well as for
aesthetic concerns, parking, access, and available services.
' 8.1.8(e) Commercial Fishing Operations
Policy 8.1.8(e)
Due to the important role of commercial and recreational fishing to the economy and cultural
' heritage of Brunswick County, the County shall encourage and support commercial fishing
operations and sports fishing operations, provided that such operations meet all applicable
development standards and are otherwise consistent with the policies of area local
governments.
' 8.1.9 Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
Policy 8.1.9
Industries shall be encouraged to locate in suitable, non -fragile areas. Environmental
' Impacts on air, land and water resources, as well as compatibility with surrounding land uses
and the availability of required services, shall be factors employed in evaluating the merits
of any particular industrial development proposal.
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1. Executive Summa
8.1.10 Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands
Policy 8.1.10
Development of sound and estuarine system islands, while not encouraged, is permitted,
provided that Impacts on the natural environment are properly mitigated. If such islands
,
must be developed, low Intensity uses such as open space, recreation, and very low density
residential shall be the preferred uses. When such islands are deemed to have greater than
local significance, the County encourages the State or Federal government to purchase
these environmentally sensitive areas for the benefit of all residents of the State.
'
8.1.11 Development Within Areas That Might be Susceptible to Sea Level Rise or Shoreline Erosion
Policy 8.1.11
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 shall support the AEC
use standards governing shoreline protection and management. The County will not permit
efforts to harden the shoreline in an attempt to counteract such conditions; however, this
policy shall not preclude the use of innovative shoreline preservation techniques as
'
approved by the Coastal Resources Commission.
8.1.12 Upland Excavation for Marina Basins
'
Policy 8.1.12
Brunswick County supports the development of marina basins In upland sites in accordance
with CAMA standards. Marina basins also shall be evaluated for site specific compatibility
with surrounding land uses, as well as for aesthetic concerns, parking, access, and
available services.
8.1.13 Marsh Damage from Bulkhead Installation
Policy 8.1.13
Brunswick County supports state and federal standards which seek to prevent or minimize
e
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.
'
8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management Measures
Policy 8.1.14
Brunswick County shall encourage and support State and Federal standards which seek to
prevent or minimize adverse water quality impacts. The County shall work proactively with
,
the State on measures to reduce stormwater runoff rates, soil erosion and sedimentation,
and point source discharges into area waters.
8.1.15 Air Quality
,
Policy 8.1.15
Brunswick County shall encourage and support State and Federal standards which seek to
prevent or minimize adverse air quality Impacts. The County shall work constructively with
State and Federal Agencies and local industries on measures to reduce or eliminate air
,
quality problems, including odor problems that may not fall under prescribed environmental
standards.
8.2. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES
'
8.2.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Production and Management
Brunswick County is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the State of North
Carolina. The County shall take no action nor approve of any action which would seriously or
'
Irreparably harm the long term bio-diversity and productivity of the area.
8.2.1 Productive Agricultural Lands
Policy 8.2.1(a)
'
The continued agricultural use of the Brunswick County's remaining farmlands shall be
encouraged through proactive planning for agricultural and open space preservation as well
as through growth management policies which favor distinct, "town and country" style
development patterns.
'
Policy 8.2.1(b)
Brunswick County encourages the planning, Installation and on -going maintenance of
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1. Executive Summary
' community -based "cooperative gardens". Such gardens may be planned as a part of new
community designs, or may be established In existing neighborhoods through the
cooperative efforts of homeowners.
8.2.2 Commercial Forest Lands
Policy 8.2.2
' Commercial forestry activities shall be supported in Brunswick County, provided significant
adverse impacts on natural resource systems are fully mitigated. Such activities should be
conducted in accordance with the standards and recommendations of the U.S. Forest
Service. The County also advocates the voluntary participation of commercial forestry
' interests in the State of North Carolina's best management practice program for forest
management.
8.2.3 Mineral Production Areas
' Policy 8.2.3
Mineral production and mining activities will be considered on a case by case review of
economic benefits and environmental and land use Impacts. Mining activities which would
jeopardize the short or long term viability of valuable natural resources or create hazardous
' conditions in the County shall not be permitted.
8.2.4 Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
Policy 8.2.4
Brunswick County supports efforts to maintain and enhance the fisheries resource of its
' waters, including water quality protection measures, nursery and habitat preservation,
proper fisheries management and enforcement, and aquaculture development, and artificial
reef activities.
8.2.5 Off Road Vehicles
Policy 8.2.5
Brunswick County discourages the use of off -road vehicles in all fragile areas because of
potential adverse environmental impacts.
' 8.2.6 Development Impacts
Policy 8.2.6
New development and redevelopment activities shall not be permitted which would
' significantly degrade the quality of natural and scenic resources in Brunswick County,
prematurely diminish the predominantly rural character of the area, or create
incompatibilities of scale, design, or land use.
8.2.7 Peat or Phosphate Mining Impacts (See the general mining policy set forth previously under section 8.2.3)
8.2.8 Gamelands/Hunting Clubs
Policy 8.2.8
' Brunswick County supports-,- efforts -to maintain and enhance public and private gamelands,
Including habitat protection and management, and the proper management of hunting clubs
and hunting activities.
8.3 Economic and Community Development Policies
8.3.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic & Community Development
Brunswick County shall work to maintain a diversified local economy while at the same time
protecting the natural and man-made environment and Improving the area as a more
' attractive community in which to work, live and play. Economic and community development
initiatives which capitalize upon and enhance a distinct "town and country" character shall
be especially supported.
' 8.3.1 Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries
Policy 8.3.1
Brunswick County encourages the development of clean industry in locations where
appropriate services can be provided, where transportation facilities are adequate, where
' environmental impacts can be fully mitigated, and where surrounding land uses are
compatible In nature. Brunswick County shall advocate the recruitment of new industries
which are compatible with area resources and economic conditions, and to the extent
possible, promote the upward mobility of low and moderate income persons.
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1. Executive Summary
8.3.2 Provision of Services to Development
Policy 8.3.2
Brunswick County will strive, to the extent that area resources, prudent budgeting, and
priority setting allows, to facilitate the expansion of public services and facilities to meet
the needs of existing and future commercial, Industrial, and residential development. The
location and size of such services shall be coordinated with land use policies and the County
zoning ordinance.
8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired
Policy 8.3.3
Brunswick County shall encourage developments which contribute to a distinct "town and
country" or "village and country" growth pattern. The intent of this policy Is to allow for the
preservation of open space and productive farm and timber land, to minimize costs of
extending Infrastructure and services, to avoid higher taxes, and minimize traffic congestion
associated with modern day suburban sprawl.
8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired
Policy 8.3.4(a)
Brunswick County shall encourage a wide range of residential development forms and
products, with emphasis on convenience to town or village based services. Residential
developments which would isolate residents from necessary services, thereby increasing
transportation, Infrastructure, and service delivery costs, shall not be encouraged.
Policy 8.3.4(b)
Multi -family development shall be located so as to have direct access to a state or higher
level road. Access to higher density housing through existing lower density residential areas
shall be strongly discouraged.
8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Desired
Policy 8.3.5 (a)
Brunswick County shall encourage commercial development to locate in town or village
centers convenient to surrounding residential neighborhoods, and of a scale and design
compatible with their surroundings. Automobile -oriented commercial strip development along
the County's roadways shall be strongly discouraged. If highway oriented commercial
development must occur, then it should be located In a commercial "node", at the
intersection of two or more state or higher level roadways.
Policy 8.3.5 (b)
Office and Institutional development may be employed as a transitional land use between
residences and more Intensive forms of commercial development, provided that such '
transitional development is compatible in design and scale with nearby residences.
8.3.6 Redevelopment, including Relocation of Threatened Structures
Policy 8.3.6 (a) '
Brunswick County supports and encourages the restoration and/or appropriate adaptive
reuse of significant and architecturally important historic and cultural structures and sites.
Policy 8.3.6 (b) '
Redevelopment and/or rehabilitation of substandard structures within the county shall be
supported through public and private sector initiatives for the economic betterment of area
residents.
Policy 8.3.6 (c) '
Recognizing that most erodible areas are within the planning jurisdictions of the County's
municipalities, the County nonetheless supports a policy of relocation and retreat, rather
than shoreline hardening, when structures are threatened by shoreline erosion. (Also see t
Policy 8.3.8(a) regarding support for beach renourishment.)
8.3.7 Commitment to State and Federal Programs
Policy 8.3.7 '
Brunswick County supports applicable state and federal programs regarding economic and
community development, especially those programs related to better jobs, water quality,
fisheries, and water and land transportation system improvements.
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' 1. Executive
' 8.3.8 Assistance to Channel Maintenance/Beach Renourishment
Policy 8.3.8 (a)
Brunswick County supports the continued maintenance of navigable channels and inlets and
the renourishment of the county's beaches in a timely, coordinated fashion. The County will
assist, In whatever non -monetary capacity it can, to see that proper spoil areas and other
channel maintenance needs are made available in support of these efforts.
Policy 8.3.8 (b)
Brunswick County supports the existing cooperative planning and cost sharing program
among the Federal, State and municipal beachfront communities as the most equitable and
practical method for funding beach renourishment projects.
' 8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development
Policy 8.3.9
Due to the inherent conflicts with the growing, substantial, tourist -based sector of
' Brunswick County's economy, the development of off -shore energy facilities and associated
on -shore staging and service bases shall not be supported. Similarly, oil, natural gas and
related refining operations shall not be supported in. Brunswick County.
' 8.3.10 Tourism
Policy 8.3.10(a)
Brunswick County encourages the development of a high quality tourism trade as a primary
element of the county's economic future. Investments in education and training, services,
facilities, growth management, and community appearance shall be employed in furtherance
of this objective.
Policy 8.3.10(b)
' Brunswick County shall pursue a tourism development strategy which capitalizes upon the
area's unique natural and scenic resources, specifically avoiding the congestion and garish
visual blight often associated with more urban or entertainment -oriented tourist
destinations.
' 8.3.11 Beach, Waterfront and Boating Access
Policy 8.3.11 (a)
Brunswick County encourages efforts to plan for and provide public access to the county's
' beaches, shores, rivers, streams, and waterfronts, in accordance with the . County's
shoreline access plan and commensurate with anticipated population increases.
Policy 8.3.11 (b)
' The provision of boating access facilities by the. County, State, towns and private interests
shall be encouraged and supported -.as -an .important. means .of public access to area waters.
8.3.12 Beautification, Including Signs, Roadway Appearance and Litter
' Policy 8.3.12(a)
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 highways and roadways.
' Policy 8.3.12(b)
The County shall continually improve its signage standards so that as the area grows,
additional signage will not visually overwhelm the county's roadways, thereby detracting
' from the beauty of the area and devaluing its attractiveness as a place in which to live or
vacation.
Policy 8.3.12(c)
Brunswick County views junked cars, "permanent" yard sales, flashing signs, and other
' roadside clutter as eyesores in the community, a detriment to a high quality of life, and a
deterrent to tourism and economic development efforts. Brunswick County shall, in
cooperation with the County's municipalities, work to address these problems and eliminate
them from our roadsides.
Policy 8.3.12(d)
Brunswick County shall not tolerate roadside litter and, in cooperation with the County's
municipalities, shall enforce strict measures against littering.
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1. Executive Summary
8.3.13 Airports
Policy 8.3.13
Brunswick County supports the continued development of the Brunswick County Airport and
will encourage land development patterns which allow for adequate airport expansion and
Improvements.
8.3.14 Education
Policy 8.3.14(a)
The attainment of a quality educational system shall be recognized as a critical factor in the
future economic development and quality of life in Brunswick County. Actions taken by the
County In support of education shall reflect the high priority given to this issue.
Policy 8.3.14(b)
Responsibility for improvements to the educational system shall not be placed solely with
policy makers, professional educators and administrators. Programs and actions which
emphasize (1) parental involvement and (2) assistance from the business community shall be
strongly pursued.
Policy 8.3 14(c)
Appropriate educational and training programs shall be encouraged to help unemployed and
underemployed local residents take advantage of business expansion and to stay abreast of
new technologies.
8.3.15 Solid Waste Management
Policy 8.3.15(a)
Local area requirements for solid waste disposal facilities shall continue to be anticipated
through advanced planning; facilities shall be located and designed so as not to adversely
Impact significant natural or manmade resources.
Policy 8.3.15(b)
Brunswick County recognizes the need for a regional solution to the solid waste issue and
will support efforts toward that end.
Policy 8.3.15(c)
Research and development of recycling and resource recovery programs, whether public or
private, shall be encouraged and supported.
8.3.16 Growth and Development Controls
Policy 8.3.16
Growth and development controls . shall be employed to promote a "town and country" pattern
of development, thereby conserving open space, and concentrating urban services cost-
effectively within developing town and village centers.
8.3.17 Tree Cover, Landscaping and Buffering
Policy 8.3.17
The County shall encourage efforts to preserve and enhance tree cover in new development
and redevelopment. The County also encourages the use of native landscape plants and
materials In new and existing development to buffer Incompatible uses, improve
appearances, absorb stormwater runoff, and moderate air temperature swings.
8.3.18 Transportation
Policy 8.3.18(a)
Brunswick County shall be an active participant in plans and actions related to
transportation improvements to and within the County. Transportation improvements shall be
coordinated with land use planning, infrastructure improvements, and economic development
efforts.
Policy 8.3.18(b)
Brunswick County supports regional intergovernmental planning and cooperation for
transportation improvements to and within southeastern North Carolina and northeastern
South Carolina.
Policy 8.3.18(c)
Continued use and planned development of the Cape Fear River, Atlantic Intracoastal
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1. Executive Summary
1
Waterway, and the Brunswick County Airport shall be encouraged.
8.3.19 Sunny Point Military Ocean Terminal
Policy 8.3.19
Due to the regional economic significance of the Sunny Point Military Ocean Terminal and its
strategic role In our nation's defense system, Brunswick County supports its continued
presence. The County also supports cooperative, long range planning for the future .of the
terminal property as its mission may evolve over time.
8.3.20 Capital Improvement Planning
Policy 8.3.20(a)
Brunswick County shall plan ahead for the timely and cost effective provision of major
capital Improvements and services on the basis of anticipated growth and demand.
Policy 8.3.20(b)
Coordination between the County, its municipalities, sewer districts, and major industries
shall be encouraged in planning and providing for capital facilities and services.
8.3.21 Parks and Recreation
Policy 8.3.21
As the population of Brunswick County continues to grow, the County shall support a
commensurate Increase in the development, maintenance and enhancement of its parks,
open space and recreational facilities, Including sound and ocean access facilities. The
County shall employ national and State recreation standards as the minimum for such
facilities —for the benefit of both residents and visitors alike. The County shall explore
alternative means of funding for parks facilities as necessary, including State and Federal
grants, development impact fees, park user fees, general obligation bonds, and other
sources of revenue.
8.3.22 Long Range Planning
Policy 8.3.22
Given the accelerated growth of the County and projections of continued rapid growth,
Brunswick County shall continue to embrace a bias for long range, strategic planning, with
near term priorities established annually In conjunction with the County's budget process.
8.4 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND COORDINATION POLICIES
8.4.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Public Participation
Brunswick County believes that an on -going, public Information program, combined with
meaningful opportunities for citizen involvement in County decision -making, is the
foundation for effective public participation in ..county - government.
8.4.1 (a) Public Education on Planning Issues
Policy 8.4.1 (a)
Brunswick County shall continue to employ public participation techniques at public
meetings which actively involve the public in identifying and discussing planning issues,
thereby facilitating a form of "engaged" education. Media attention concerning such
meetings is also strongly encouraged and thankfully acknowledged for the public service
they provide.
8.4.1(b) Continuing Public Participation in Planning
' Policy 8.4.1 (b)
Following plan adoption, Brunswick County shall employ frequent, constructive and open
regular meetings of the Planning Board and County Commissioners as the primary vehicle for
engaging public participation In on -going planning issues and development projects.
i�
8.4.1(c) Public Input in Developing Policy Statements
Policy 8.4.1 (c)
Citizen input in the development of growth policies shall be supported through attention
given to the issues and priorities which the public Identified during early input meetings.
8.4.1(d) Intergovernmental Coordination in Local Government Planning
Policy 8.4.1 (d)
Effective public participation in County government planning shall also include coordination
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1. Executive Summary I
with municipal governments and utility districts in the County. The County shall continue to
act to facilitate Improved communication and coordination on planning matters among local
governments in the County. The Land Classification Map of the County land use plan shall be
employed as a specific planning tool to identify and affirm County town and village growth
centers.
8.5 STORM HAZARD MITIGATION/POST-DISASTER RECOVERY, & EVACUATION POLICIES AND PLANS
Policy 8.5.0
The County shall continually seek to establish procedures and take actions to reduce the
potential for the loss of life and property damage prior to a storm event, and to provide a
framework for orderly reconstruction in the aftermath of a hurricane or other significant
damaging event.
Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies
8.5.1 A Storm Effect Mitigation
(1) High Winds: Brunswick County shall continue to enforce the North Carolina . Building Code,
particularly those provisions which require construction standards to meet resistive factors,
i.e. design, wind velocity.
(2) Storm Surge: Recognizing that most parts of the County subject to storm surge are within
the regulatory jurisdiction of municipalities, Brunswick County nonetheless supports the
development standards of the State CAMA Ocean Hazard Area of Environmental Concern
(AEC). These standards help ensure that structures particularly susceptible to storm surge
(e.g. first row) are set back from the ocean a distance based on the average annual erosion
rate at that location.
(3) Flooding: The County is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance Program and
Is supportive of its hazard mitigation elements. The County shall continue to seek
improvements in development standards. which would result in lower .insurance premiums for
County property owners. The County also supports proper enforcement of State and Federal
wetlands development permit processes in areas potentially susceptible to flooding.
(4) Wave Action and Shoreline Erosion: The County is supportive of the CAMA development
permit process for oceanfront and estuarine shoreline areas and the requisite development
standards which encourage shoreline preservation, dune stabilization, wave action
absorption, and other mitigation measures.
8.5.1 B Discouragement of Hazardous Development
(1) Brunswick County shall discourage high intensity uses and large structures from being
constructed within the 100-year floodplain, erosion -prone areas, and other locations
susceptible to hurricane and flooding hazards.
(2) Brunswick County, through its Emergency Management Office, shall encourage each of
Its communities to participate In hurricane preparedness, education and Information sharing
programs at least once per year. Such public outreach programs should educate the public
as to storm resistant building design and construction standards, as well as local
government policies on evacuation, reentry, restoration of services and reconstruction.
(3) The County will periodically conduct studies to analyze both the feasibility and benefits
of revising local building and development standards to lessen the effects of storm damage.
Included shall be an examination of the County's floodplain management, zoning, subdivision
and building standards.
8.5.1 C Public Land Acquisition
Brunswick County shall not participate in the purchase of land parcels located in hazard
areas or rendered unbuildable by storms or other events, for the purposes of shorefront
access.
8.5.1 D Evacuation and Emergency Management
(1) Brunswick County, in cooperation with municipal and State officials, shall annually
evaluate the impact of continued growth on existing transportation facilities with regard to
evacuation routes and times. The Intent shall be to identify and address needed
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' 1. Executive Summary
transportation improvements well in advance of a crisis.
(2) Brunswick County recognizes the critical role that area fire departments, rescue squads
and other emergency personnel play in managing emergency situations. The County shall
work cooperatively with such emergency personnel to plan for and respond to emergencies
and shall facilitate cooperation among emergency personnel.
Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies
8.5.2 (a) Emergency Management Plan and Near Tenn Response
The County shall prepare and annually update an Emergency Management and Operations
' Plan, in concert with municipal and State emergency management officials. The plan shall
encompass pre -storm and immediate post storm activities and policies of the County,
including coordinated policies on evacuation and reentry to damaged areas. Important
elements of the plan and its policies shall be publicized, particularly at the beginning of each
' hurricane season.
8.5.2 (b) Local Post -Disaster Reconstruction Policies
Redevelopment In the most :hazardous:areas.may be discouraged or prohibited if post storm
analysis indicates that rebuilding would be unsafe or unwise. Structures and sites destroyed
by 50% or more of their value and which do not conform to the County's building regulations,
zoning ordinances, and other storm hazard mitigation policies, shall be redeveloped
according to current standards. In some instances, this may mean relocation of construction
or no reconstruction at all. Structures and sites suffering damages at less than 50% of their
value shall be allowed to be restored to their original condition prior to the storm.
8.5.2 (c) Recovery Task Force
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. The Board
of County Commissioners shall also have at their disposal a predetermined Recovery Task
Force to carry out their directives regarding recovery activities following a major storm
event. The composition and duties of the Recovery Task Force shall be specified in the
County's Emergency Management and Operations Plan.
8.5.2 (e) Staging Schedule For Reconstruction and Repair
(1) To deal with the large number of requests for permits after a major storm, the County
shall employ a "building permit triage" system for orderly issuance of building permits.
Criteria for the order of issuance shall be developed in advance, with the need for
modification acknowledged based upon the specific circumstances .being faced.
(2) The Board of County Commissioners,maydeclare-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.
(3) Immediately following a damaging storm event, the County shall work with all appropriate
utility and service companies to Implement a planned sequence for the restoration of public
' utilities and services, with allowance for adjustment to deal with circumstances at hand.
Generally, priority shall be given to those repairs that will restore service to critical
locations (e.g. hospital) first and secondarily, to those repairs that will restore service to as
many persons as soon as possible.
' 8.5.2(f) Public Infrastructure Repairs/ Replacement
(1) The County encourages underground installation, replacement and storm proofing of
public and private utilities and infrastructure.
' (2) 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.
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1. Executive Summary
8.6 BALD HEAD ISLAND POLICIES
8.6.1 Resource Protection Policies
BHI Policy 8.6.1 (a)
The Village of Bald Head Island supports the concept of a family oriented island developed in
harmony with nature, promoting responsible development with respect for the environment.
BHI Policy 8.6.1(b)
Educational programs and other efforts targeted to property owners and visitors will be
utilized in order to further Bald Head Island's goal of preserving the beauty of its' beaches,
creeks, maritime forest, and other natural resources which make it unique.
BHI Policy 8.6.1(c)
The Village of Bald Head Island supports state and federal laws designed to manage
development in Ocean Hazard Areas of Environmental Concern as well as Estuarine Shoreline
Areas of Environmental Concern.
BHI Policy 8.6.1(d)
The Village of Bald Head Island realizes the importance of- its shoreline from -'an`•aesthetic and
economic standpoint. The Village will establish a shoreline management plan to evaluate
methods of beach and dune stabilization. The Village supports all State and Federal programs
for beach stabilization and encourages the active funding of these programs.
8,6.2 Resource Production and Management Policies
BHI Policy 8.6.(a)
The Village of Bald Head Island supports efforts to maintain a high level of water quality in
order to enhance fisheries resource and recreational value of its waters.
BHI Policy 8.6.(b)
Protection of sea turtle nesting areas will continue to be enforced through recognized
ordinances.
BHI Policy 8.6.2(c)
The Village of Bald Head Island recognizes its natural resources as one of its greatest
assets. To help preserve these resources the development of a maritime forest management
plan and consistent open space plan have become a point of focus.
BHI Policy 8.6.2(d)
Bald Head Island restricts the use of vehicles powered by internal combustion engines,
because of the fragile nature of its unique habitat, in order to prevent adverse environmental
impacts. Bald Head Island will continue to enforce its Internal Combustion Engine Ordinance,
which prohibits the use of internal combustion engines on the Island with certain exceptions.
8.6.3 Economic and Community Development Policies
BHI Policy 8.6.3(a)
Bald Head Island advocates a strong local government that supports effective community
planning and appropriate land use controls.
BHI Policy 8.6.3(b)
Bald Head Island will attempt to facilitate the expansion of public services and facilities to
meet the needs of existing and future populations, as resources allow.
BHI Policy 8.6.3(c)
Bald Head Island supports innovative transportation programs related to improved road and
water transportation system improvements, including an enhanced emergency transportation
system.
BHI Policy 8.6.3(d)
Residential and commercial development in accordance with applicable Village ordinances is
encouraged.
BHI Policy 8.6.3(e)
Bald Head Island supports and encourages the restoration and/or appropriate adaptive reuse
of significant and architecturally important historic and cultural structures and sites.
page 1-14
h

1. Executive Summary
BHI Policy 8.6.3(f)
t Bald Head Island supports a completed and well -maintained Infrastructure, including the
development of a state of the art solid waste collection system.
BHI Policy 8.6.3(g)
Bald Head Island supports regional intergovernmental planning as it relates to transportation, emergency services,
etc. Bald Head Island encourages improved regional cooperation covering all local government units including
Brunswick County area municipalities, neighboring counties, and the State.
BHI Policy 8.6.3(h)
Measures to enhance public safety will be supported, such as regulation of golf cart safety, as well as enhanced
emergency medical service programs. Bald Head island encourages equitable application of county resources to all
municipalities, specifically emergency services such as EMT -paramedic and fire protection.
' 8.6.4 Continuing Public Participation and Coordination Policies
BHI Policy 8.6.4(a)
The Village Of Bald Head Island supports continued public participation in Village government. Every effort will be
made to improve channels of communication to property owners and residents to obtain input and ideas at the front-
end of the decision making process. -
BHI Policy 8.6.4(b)
The Village of Bald Head island believes that the core of strong local government is active citizen involvement and
open communication between Village representatives and their constituents. The Village will continue to support
efforts to further this purpose, such as the establishment of Village committees, including but not limited to: Finance,
Beach, Roads and Transportation, Public Safety, and Public Works.
8.6.5 Storm Hazard Mitigation & Post -Disaster Recovery Policies
BHI Policy 8.6.5(a)
The Village of Bald Head Island will continually pursue methods and procedures to minimize the loss of life and
property during major storm events. This includes establishment of an Emergency Mitigation Plan to effectively plan
' for evacuation/security measures, as well as provide an orderly method of post -disaster clean up and recovery.
BHI Policy 8.6.5(b)
The Village of Bald Head Island shall continue to enforce the North Carolina Building code, which establishes
design/construction standards to meet resistive factors such as high wind velocity. The.Village will also continue to
comply with CAMA regulations, whose standards dictate setbacks for structures particularly susceptible to storm
surge.
BHl Policy 8.6.5(c)
Bald Head Island, in cooperation with County and State officials, continues to explore the safest, most expedient
and efficient evacuation routes for citizens..Continued cooperation with appropriate officials to ensure proper
implementation of emergency planning will be pursued.
11
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1. Executive Summary
1.3. The Land Classification System
1.3.1 Purpose of Land Classification and Relationship to Policies
The'CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines require that local governments in the coastal area
classify various parts of their planning jurisdictions in accordance with the desired density and
character of development for each area of their community. By delineating land classes on a map,
the County can specify where various forms of development and redevelopment might best
occur, and where natural and cultural resources should be conserved. For example, the
Developed class is intended for areas that are already urban in nature. The Urban Transition
class is intended for areas that are expected to become urban within the next decade. The Rural
class is intended for areas that are not expected to become urban within the next decade —and
so forth.
The land 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 general 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.
1.3.2 Land Classification System of Brunswick County
The basic land classification system (as presented in the State guidelines for land use planning)
includes seven classes: Developed, Urban Transition, Limited Transition, Community, Rural,
Rural with Services, and Conservation. The guidelines allow local governments to subdivide
these classes into more specific sub -classes if they choose. In keeping with this provision,
Brunswick County has elected to create several sub -classes which are outlined in detail below.
1.3.3 Land Classification Map
The land classification map is provided at the back of this document.
1.3.4 Land Classification Areas Described
DEVELOPED —NOT IN PLANNING AREA
The purpose of the Developed class is to provide for continued intensive development and
redevelopment of existing cities, towns and their urban environs. In the case of"unincorporated
Brunswick County, no Developed areas are designated on the map. Rather, these areas are
more properly reserved to the more densely developed and serviced incorporated municipalities
of the County. With two exceptions (Bald Head Island, Sandy Creek), 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.
TRANSITION AREAS
The purpose of the Transition class is to provide for future development on lands that are
suitable and that will be provided with the necessary urban services to support such
development. Urban services normally include water, sewer, streets and roads, police and fire
protection that will be made available at the time development occurs or soon thereafter. Areas
meeting the intent of the Transition class are presently being developed or will be developed in
the next five to ten years to accommodate anticipated growth. Most of these areas are in, or will
be in a "transitional" state of development, going from lower intensity uses to higher intensity
uses and, as such, will eventually require urban services. For the Brunswick County Land Use
Plan, several sub -categories within the Transition Classification have been proposed as follows:
page 1-16

1. Executive Summary
11
Area of Town and Village Clusters
The Area of Town and Village Clusters has been applied to those parts of the unincorporated
area where: (1) authorization for regional sewer service is already in place or (2) where initiatives
are underway which have a significant probability of establishing authority for regional sewer
service within the next five years and where: (3) county water service is already in place or
planned to be in place 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.
It is important to note that the intent of this land classification is not to blanket the landscape with
suburban sprawl style development, but rather to encourage new developments to occur in
Town or Village like patterns, with certain retail services designed into the Town or Village cluster.
The intent is to discourage unnecessary increases in traffic volumes on the County's few main
roads by encouraging residents. to shop for. their basic.needs.closer to home, perhaps within
walking or biking distance. At the same time, the compact nature of these clusters, typically
involving smaller lots, is intended to allow for the allocation of permanent open space around and
between such clusters. This development pattern is entirely consistent with the desires of
County residents to preserve open space and the rural character of much of Brunswick County,
while allowing growth to occur in a managed way.
Highway -Oriented Services
Areas designated for Highway -Oriented Services are intended to acknowledge the strong
pressures for commercial development along some sections of the County's main roadways.
While the County would prefer to see such commercial development locate in the incorporated
municipalities where services can be provided, the County also recognizes that a certain amount
of highway oriented commercial development is inevitable. However, rather than allowing "strip
commercial development" to occur unabated along the County's roadways, the Highway -
Oriented Services classification has been created to limit such areas to designated roadway
sections. Finally, the County anticipates the need to enact special development standards for
highway oriented commercial services, including signage standards, landscaping and tree
preservation, limits on driveway cuts, possible frontage road or rear access roads, etc.
Industrial Areas
The purpose of the
' on appropriate site
s
The 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 and/or rail
service. Existing industries located within these areas include, for example, Dupont, the Sunny
Point Military Terminal, the Archer Daniels Midland Plant, the CP&L 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 may seek to
employ the Industrial class in the future as may be advantageous to recruit new industry to other
appropriate locations within the broader Rural land area.
Military Reservation
The purpose of the Military Reservation land class is to accommodate the needs of the Sunny
Point Military Ocean Terminal. As part of the Land Use Plan policies, the County suggests the
page 1-17

1. Executive Summary
need for advanced planning for the on -going evolution of the mission of the terminal in the coming
decades. This may involve contingency planning in cooperation with the Department of Defense.
COMMUNITY
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 so designated, they will appear as small circular areas on the County's
land classification map. This is not to imply that future development shall conform to a circular
shape. While future community level development may center on this location, it is recognized that
soil limitations, floodprone areas, or other factors may influence the eventual development form of
the community. Thus, 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 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 usually available... -
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: Sandy Creek (incorporated), Maco, Clarendon, Bell Swamp/Winnabow, Mill
Creek, Piney Grove, Kingtown, Ash/Waccamaw, Longwood, Grissettown, and Hickman's
Crossroads.
RURAL
The Rural class is to provide for agriculture, forestry, 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. Areas meeting the intent of this
classification are appropriate for or presently used for agriculture, forestry, and other similar uses.
Population densities are generally very low. 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.
CONSERVATION AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
The purpose of the Conservation and Resource Management 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 a very limited
manner characterized by careful planning and cautious attention to the conservation of
environmental features.
Urban services, public or private, should not be provided in these areas as a catalyst to
stimulate intense development. In most cases, 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.
For Brunswick County, the Conservation and Resource Management class includes:
1. Areas of Environmental Concern, as defined in 15A NCAC 7H and as further summarized in
Policy Section 8.1 of the Land Use Plan,
page 1-18

1. Executive Summary
2. Wetland areas under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers' 404 wetlands Permit
Program and as generally identified as a freshwater woody wetland by the National Wetlands
' Inventory of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
3. Certain critical wildlife habitat areas as may be designated by the State Natural Heritage
Program and approved by the County Commissioners for inclusion in this class.
4.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, and
swamp forests containing significant productive, natural, scenic, cultural or recreational
' resources, and as may be approved by the County Commissioners for inclusion in this class.
Mapping of AEC's, 404 wetlands, and critical habit areas in the Conservation class is
accomplished with the understanding that these areas are more accurately defined in their
respective management policies and plans. 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 shall be applied in accordance with the
site specific information made available during the land development process.
As part of the Conservation Class the County wishes to go on record that in no instances, shall
the Conservation classification as shown on the land classification map be employed to
' automatically "trigger" special environmental reviews or wetlands inventories for proposed
developments. Rather, the need for such reviews should be determined on a case by case basis
depending on the nature of the site specific situation.
1
page 1-19

2. Introduction

' 2. Introduction
2. Introduction
2.1 Why Prepare a CAMA Land Use Plan?
Purpose of Land Use Planning
Brunswick County's growth rate continues to outpace most areas of 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,
1987, and 1992. This update refines the 1992 plan to address current conditions, issues and
trends in the county. In turn, the analysis of current conditions, issues, and trends provide the
factual basis and rationale for establishing new policies or revising existing policies.
2.2 Goals and Objectives of the Land Use Plan
' The Land Use Plan is designed to accomplish several important objectives; these objectives 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 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.
The next section of the plan seeks to address several of the above functions very broadly by
stating an overall community vision for Brunswick County.
1
page 2-1

m m

3. Community Vision
1
I
1
3. Community Vision
3.1 Purpose
The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines- state that "land use planning offers the best chance for
developing a common vision and -goals for the -future that balance economic development and resource
protection necessary for a healthy coast.". (NCAC Subchapter.76 Land Use Planning Guidelines, Section
.0100 - Introduction to Land Use Planning, .0101 Purpose).
3.2 Vision Statement
For the Brunswick County Land Use Plan, the following overall vision for the community has been
established:
General Vision Statement for Next Ten Years
We, the residents, businesses, and property owners of Brunswick County shall seek to
preserve and enhance our natural and human resources, and will plan for and accommodate
future growth while simultaneously maintaining and Improving the quality of life for current
and future residents.
While the above vision statement is not intended to be definitive in nature, it does provide the foundation
for many of the specific policies of the County's Land Use Plan and ultimately, for guiding public
expenditures for infrastructure and for changes in the County's development regulations.
page 3-1

' 4. Data Collection and Analysis
n 4. Data Collection and Analysis
4.1 Establishment of Information Base
Components of the Analysis
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 as
' a foundation for 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.
Collectively, these studies establish the information base necessary to make policy choices
about future land use and development in the county. Chapters 5 (Present Conditions), 6
' (Constraints), and 7 (Estimated Demand) of this Plan set forth the findings of this information base
in greater detail. Section 4.2 below summarizes some of the salient findings from these chapters.
4.2 Some Findings from the Technical Studies
' Population Increases
From 1950 to 1960, the population of Brunswick County hovered around 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
most recent estimate from the State placed the County's population at 62,856 as of July of 1996.
' If this pace were to continue through the end of the decade, the County would have over 70,000
residents by the year 2000. (By way of comparison, at the time of the last land use plan update
in 1992, the state was projecting a year 2000.population ofonly 66,000.)
Retirement Age Population
From 1940 until 1995, the number of people 65 years and over more than tripled from less than
5% to an estimated 17% of the total population. This is especially significant when compared
' with the same age group percentages for the state of North Carolina (12.5% in 1995). Brunswick
County continues to draw a significant share of retirees as new residents to the area.
Economy
' The economic analysis included the following trends for Brunswick County:
• A relative stagnation or decline in agriculturally -based employment and income.
• 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.
• A substantial, but largely undocumented "underground economy" within the county, attributable
to untaxed earnings from, for example, lower paying construction jobs, food service and part-
time fishing.
page 4-1

4. Data Collection and Analysis
Housing Types
The U.S. Census reported that in 1990, some 36% of all residential units in Brunswick County
(including all municipalities) consisted of mobile homes. In addition, County building inspections
records reveal that, for at least the past decade, more than four out of five residential permits
issued by the County were for mobile homes.
Water Supply
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. Starting in 1981, a major expansion of the system began, funded by a $37
million general obligation bond approved by the County's voters. Also at that time, the main
source of water for the County system was changed from groundwater to the Cape Fear River.
Since the establishment of the system, demand for water has increased steadily. At the end of
the 1980's, the total median daily demand from all customers tied into the County system was at
3.7 million gallons. By 1993, median daily demand had more than doubled to 10 million gallons per
day. At present (1997) median daily demand is estimated to be approaching 20 million gallons per
day or 66% of the total system capacity of 30 million gallons.
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 and Brunswick County government has taken on a leading partnership role in
the development of such systems.
Transportation Facilities
The four-laning of US 17 through the county has done much to alleviate congestion on this major
traffic artery. In addition, the completion of by-passes around the Towns of Shallotte and Bolivia
has further enhanced 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.
Solid Waste Management
In 1992, Brunswick County implemented a move to a privatized solid waste collection system.
Since that time, private haulers assumed responsibilities for waste collection and hauling
previously handled by the County. As of January 1, 1998, the County closed the county dump
off U.S. 17 near Shallotte. (On that date, Federal law required that such dumps have a protective
lining to help prevent groundwater contamination.) At the same time, the closed dump site will now
fulfill a new role as a major transfer site for the off-loading of smaller truck loads and reloading onto
larger haulers for out of the county disposal.
4.3 For Further Information
To find out more about various aspects of land use and development trends in Brunswick
County, the interested citizen is also invited to visit the County Planning Department where
variety of studies, plans, maps, aerial photographs and booklets are maintained on file.
page 4-2

5. Present Conditions
I

5. Present Conditions
5. Present Conditions
This section presents a variety of information about current human, economic and physical
conditions in Brunswick County. Also included is a summary of local plans, policies, and
regulations pertinent to the formulation of the land use plan.
5.1 Population and Economy*
5.1.1 Population and Housing
(a) Population Growth, 1930 to 2000
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. While this tremendous rate of growth has moderated somewhat
during the 1990's, the actual numbers of people moNn—into the County have never been
greater. In fact, according to estimates calculated by the Office of State Budget and Management,
Brunswick County will have doubled its population in the twenty year period between 1980 and
the year 2000.
TABLE 5.1.1 (a) POPULATION GROWTH COMPARISON, COUNTY AND STATE
Brunswick County State of North Carolina
Year
Population
% Increase
Population
% Increase
1930
15,815
1940
17,125
8%
1950.
19,238
12%
4,052,795
1960
20,278
5%
4,556,155
12%
1970
24,223
19%
5,084,411
12%
1980
35,777
48%
5,881,766
16%
1990
50,985
43%
6,628,637
13%
2000 (Proj)
1 69,653
1 37%
1 7,713,383
16%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau and Office of State Planning
'Unless otherwise noted, all population and economic figures refer to the entire County, including municipalities. for a
discussion of the impact of seasonal population (both peak and shoulder) on population, housing and retail sales,
see Section 5.1.3.
page 5-1

5. Present Conditions
CHART 5.1.1 (a) POPULATION GROWTH CURVES, COUNTY AND STATE
r 70,000
° 60,000
50,000
n 40,000
a.. 30,000
20,000
0 10,000
Population Growth Curve
BRUNSWICK COUNTY
0 0 0 0
cn (D co
o) rn rn rn
r r r r
Year
0 0
M o 0
0 0
r N 0_
Population Growth Curve
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
= 8,000,000
c 7,000,000
0 6.000,000
a 5,000,000 -
00 4,000,000-------------
3,000,000 -- -- -
2,000,000-
0
1,060,000 _.
F-
0 0 0 0 0
cn. co i. oo 0)o0 0
rn rn. rn rn rn 0
r r r r r N 0_
Year
page 5-2

5. Present Conditions
(b) Sources of Population Growth: Births Over Deaths & People Moving In
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. Further, State estimates of population growth during
the 1990's indicate that almost all of the county's growth may now be attributed to in -migration. In
other words, births and deaths during the present decade are just about canceling each other out.
TABLE 5.1.1 (b) 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
CHART 5.1.1 (b)
Natural Increase and Net Migration
Population Growth in Brunswick County
1930 to 1990
16,000
14,000
12,000
10,000
8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
-2,000
-4,000
0 Net Migration
■ Natural Increase
0 0
0
0
0 0
v T
cD
co 9
0 0
0
0
0 0
co 11
U')
(D
r` Co
C)
page 5-3

- . 5. Present Conditions
(c) Population Growth By Townships
As the following table indicates, not all parts of Brunswick County have grown at an 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.
TABLE 5.1.1 (c) 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
CHART 5.1.1 (c)
Population Growth By Township
1980 to 1990
12,000
10,000
8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
O
3 T
0
U LL
O
.J
y -X 3
ca
O (n E Ca
Z (n
page 5-4

5. Present Conditions
(d) Population Growth By Municipalities
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, have
continued on a consistent, fast paced growth trend. Of the non -oceanfront communities, the Town
of Calabash grew at an astounding 829% 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 44% during the decade, a
reflection of the overall attractiveness of this part of the county to new development.
TABLE 5.1.1 (d) 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)
(1)
Ocean Isle Beach
143
534
391
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
page 5-5

5. Present Conditions
Bald Head Is*
Belville
Boiling S L
Bolivia
Calabash
Caswell Beach
Holden Beach
Leland*
Long Beach
Navassa
Ocean Is Beach
Sandy Creek*
Shallotte
Southport
Sunset Beach
Varnamtown*
Yaupon Beach
0
CHART 5.1.1 (d)
Municipal Population Growth
1980 to 1990
500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000
*Incorporated between 1980 and 1990.
page 5-6

5. Present Conditions
(e) Population Growth by Incorporated Versus Unincorporated Areas
The municipal growth patterns 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.
TABLE 5.1.1 e)
POPULATION IN INCORPORATED VERS S UNINCORPORATED AREAS
1980-1990
Numbers % of County
Population
M
Incorporated Areas 8,615
Unincorporated Areas 27,109
TOTAL COUNTY 35,777
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990
1990 1980 1990
15,644 24% 30%
35,341 76 70
50,985 100 100
CHART 5.1.1 (e)
Population in
Incorporated Versus
Unincorporated Areas
1980
Incorp.
Areas
24%
M
Unincorp.
Areas
76%
Population in
Incorporated Versus
Unincorporated Areas ,-
1990
Incorp.
Areas
31%
page 5-7
Unincorp.
Areas
69%

5. Present Conditions
(f) Housing Growth by Township
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 90's and the relatively large numbers of seasonal housing
units built in the county.
TABLE 5.1.1 (f) 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
12,000
10,000
8,000
6,OOC
4,00(
2,001
CHART 5.1.1 (f)
Housing Units By Township
1980 and 1990
0 3
°co
o o s U E
Y Z E C U
0 3 ccF0 3:
page 5-8
1990 Housing Units
) Housing Units
1

S5. Present Conditions
(g) Housing Characteristics Relative to Selected Counties
The table below compares housing units in Brunswick County with housing units in several
counties selected from the northern, central, and southern parts of the coastal North Carolina. As
can be seen, Brunswick County has, relatively speaking, a lower percentage of its housing units
tied to public sewers, an average percentage of substandard units, and a higher than average
' percentage of its housing units in the form of mobile homes.
TABLE 5.1.1 (g) HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS, 1990
' Brunswick County As Compared to Other Selected Counties
County Total Housing % of Total % of Total % of Total
Units, 1990 Housing Tied Housing In Housing in
To Public Substandard Mobile homes
Sewers Units
BEAUFORT COUNTY 19,598 29% 5% 24%
' BRUNSWICK COUNTY 37,114 17 2 36
DARE COUNTY 21,567 19 1 11
NEW HANOVER COUNTY 57,076 71 2 9
ONSLOW COUNTY 47,526 56 4 26
CHART 5.1.1 (g)(1)
% of Total Housing Tied To Public Sewers, 1990
Selected Coastal Counties
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Y
oZ W�
m0o o ao � o
co U
page 5-9

5. Present Conditions
CHART 5.1.1
% of Total Housing in Mobile Homes, 1990
Selected Coastal Counties
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
cc
OO w O
p D O p Z LU 9
m U m U U A
(h) Percent of Residential Development Attributed to Mobile homes
The Brunswick County Planning Department has compiled statistics on permits issued for mobile
homes versus site built, single family housing by year for the past ten years. The results are
shown in the table below. Generally speaking, since at least the mid 1980's more than four out of
five residential permits issued by the County were for mobile homes.
TABLE 5.1.1 (H)(1) PERCENT OF RESIDENTIAL PERMITS ISSUED BY B_RUNSWICK
COUNTY FOR MOBILE HOMES, 1986 to 1996
Year
Permits for
Single Family Homes
(site built)
Permits for
Mobile Homes
(factory built)
Percent -of
residential
permits issued fo
mobile homes
1986
289
1370
83%
1987
359
1333
79%
1988
239
1022
81%
1989
184
903
83%
1990
181
1 130
93%
1991
165
845
84%
1992
201
768
79%
1993
151
821
84%
1994
213
809
79%
1995
256
916
78%
1996
371
1000
73%
Figures shown are for unincorporated Brunswick County, and for those municipalities for which the County handles
permitting responsibilities, namely the Towns of Leland, Navassa, Belville, Northwest, Varnumtown, Sandy Creek,
and Bolivia.
page 5-10

5. Present Conditions
11
n
In April and May of 1998, the Brunswick County Planning Department conducted a special
survey of municipalities in the County for which the County did not have permit issuing
responsibilities. The results of the survey are below. (Certain municipalities did not respond to
the survey.) The survey showed that, on average, these municipalities issued far fewer permits
for mobile homes (as a percentage of single family site built homes) than did the County during
the 1990's.
TABLE 5.1.1 (H)(2) PERCENT OF RESIDENTIAL PERMITS ISSUED BY MUNICIPALITIES
FOR MOBILE HOMES, 1992 to 1997
# of Site Built
Home Permits
Issued
# of Permits
Issued for Mobile
Homes
% of Permits
Issued for Mobile
Homes
1992
Baldhead Island
31
0
0%
Boiling Spring Lakes
63
13
17%
Calabash
63
38
38%
Holden Beach
50
NA
NA
Long Beach
89
19
18%
Ocean Isle Beach
51
4
7%
Southport
19
NA
NA
Sunset Beach
90
17
16%
Yaupon Beach
6
0
0%
462
91
16%
1993
Baldhead Island
15
0
0%
Boiling Spring Lakes
49
11
18%
Calabash
65
37
36%
Holden Beach
62
NA
NA
Long Beach
85
10
11%
Ocean Isle Beach
71
8
10%
Southport
22
NA
NA
Sunset Beach
127
22
15%
Yaupon Beach.
9
0
0%
505
88
15%
1994
Baldhead Island
61
0
0%
Boiling Spring Lakes
41
13
24%
Calabash
83
37
31 %
Holden Beach
53
NA
NA
Long Beach
113 -
12
10%
Ocean Isle Beach
71
4
5%
Southport
18
0
0%
Sunset Beach
99
22
18%
Yaupon Beach
6
0
0%
545
88
14%
page 5-10a

5. Present Conditions
# of Site Built
Home Permits
Issued
# of Permits
Issued for Mobile
Homes
% of Permits
Issued for Mobile
Homes
1995
Baldhead Island
110
0
0%
Boiling Spring Lakes
35
22
39%
Calabash
71
47
40%
Holden Beach
61
NA
NA
Long Beach
141
10
7%
Ocean Isle Beach
87
8
8%
Southport
21
2
9%
Sunset Beach
61
15
20%
Yaupon Beach
2
0
0%
589
104
15%
1996
Baldhead Island
61
0
0%
Boiling Spring Lakes
55
31
36%
Calabash
59
59
50%
Holden Beach
54
NA
NA
Long Beach
147
12
8%
Ocean Isle Beach
106
11
9%
Southport
18
1
5%
Sunset Beach
64
19
23%
Yaupon Beach
6
0
0%
570
133
19%
1997
Baldhead Island
52
0
0%
Boiling Spring Lakes
68
27
28%
Calabash
41
64
61 %
Holden Beach
58
NA
NA
Long Beach
162
6
A,%
Ocean Isle Beach
89
12
12%
Southport
23
5
18%
Sunset Beach
71
14
16%
Yaupon Beach
9
0
0%
573
128
18%
Totals 1992-1997
3244
632
19%
Source: Survey of municipalities conducted by Brunswick County Planning Department, April and May, 1998
page 5-10b

5. Present Conditions
1
fl
.1
1
1
1
1
(1) Age Composition of the Population
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 tables and charts below indicate 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.
TABLE 5.1.1 (i)�1)
AGE GROUPS IN BRUNSWICK COUNTY AS 'A' /o OF TOTAL POPULATION, 1940-90
Age Group
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 &
9.0
7.3
5.5
7.6
7.6
6.0
New Labor)
25 through 44 (Primary
25.0
25.9
23.7
22.7
27.0
28.8
Labor)
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
CHART 5.1.1 (i)(1)
Population Age Composition, 1940 to 1990
Brunswick County
100% '
90%
80% '
70% '
60%
50%
40% '
30%
20%
10% '
0% '
..
..
■■
■■
■■
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
■■
..
.. ■■
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
■■
..
■■
..
..
.
■■
..
..
..
..
..
..0
..
..
..
■.
No
..
..
.■
..
..
..
So
ilel
1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 1995
page 5-11
113 65+ (Retirees)
Im 45-64(Mature Labor)
025-44 (Primary Labor)
I©20-24 (College/New Labor)
015-19 (Teen Years)
!0 5-14 (Early School)
j■ Under 5 (Preschool)

Present Conditions
Table 5.1.1 2)
PERCENT OF COUNTY POPULATI 65 YEARS & OVER
Brunswick County and the State of North Carolina
1970, 1980, and 1990
% OF TOTAL POPULATION
Year No. of Persons Brunswick North Carolina
65 years & over County % %
in Brunswick Co
1970 1,728 7.1 8.1
1980 3,835 10.8 10.2
1990 7,494 14.7 12.1
1995 10,326 17.0 12.5
Source: US Censuses, 1970, 1980 and 1990
Chart 5.1.1 (i)(2)
Percentage of Persons 65+
Brunswick County Versus North Carolina
18
16 I ■ Brunswick County
14 t7 North Carolina
12
10
a 8
6
4
2
0 - -
1970 1980 1990 1995
page 5-12

Present Conditions
1�
H
n
L!
fl
fl
0) Racial Composition of the Population
The continued rapid influx of primarily White residents, is reflected in the consistent decline of the
Non -White population as a percentage of total county population from 1950 to 1995. While more
than 1 in 3 residents were Non -White in 1950, at present there are fewer than 1 in 5 Non -Whites
in the total county population.
Table 5.1.1 0) RACIAL COMPOSITION OF BRUNSWICK COUNTY
AS A PERCENT OF TOTAL POPULATION
1950-95
1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 1995
White 63.4% 64.6% 69.3% 76.3% 81.1 % 82.7
Non -White 36.6% 35.4% 30.7% 23.7% 18.9% 17.3%
TOTAL 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Source: US Censuses
1995 %'s
1990 %'s
1980 %'s
1970 %'s
1960 %'s
1950 %'s
Chart 5.1.1 0)
Racial Composition
Brunswick County
1950 to 1995
i i
:.....
� -2- W�
................
.....................
gpog
r"'p—rV "V
I
I I I
■ Non -White
' 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
(k) Educational Measures
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 obscures any baseline from which to gauge educational improvement.
For example, in the area of "Percent of adults (aged 25+) with a high school diploma, 1990", the
statistics would seem to indicate that Brunswick County has improved somewhat in this
' category —from 29th among all 100 counties in 1980 to 24th in 1990. However, given the fact that
nearly 100% of the county's population increase is now attributable to new residents moving in
from outside the area, this figure may be misleading.
page 5-13

Conditions
Further, improvements in drop -out rates often receive mixed reviews from some educators. While
some educators argue that keeping students in school is a very important objective, others
believe that keeping unmotivated students in school is disruptive and counterproductive to those
students who really do want to learn.
TABLE 5.1.1 (K)(1)
PERCENT OF ADULTS (AGED 25+) WITH A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA, 1990
PERCENT RANK* RANK*
OF ADULTS 1980 1990
W DIPLOMA
Brunswick County
69.2% 29 24
County with highest
85.4%
percentage
County with lowest
52.6%
percentage
State Average
70.0%
Ranking is out of 100 counties in the State of North Carolina.
Source: Statistical Abstract of NC Counties, 1991 (Based on 1990 Census data).
TABLE 5.1.1 (K)(2)
AVERAGE DROP -OUT RATE
(% OF TOTAL ENROLLMENT)
Selected Counties, Region O
1982, 1988, 1994
1982 1988 1994
Brunswick County
11.7 8.7 3.6
New Hanover County 8.7 6.8
Columbus County
11.1 10.9
Pender County
9.9 7.5
State of NC
NA NA 4.7
Source: NC Dept. of Public Instruction
page 5-14

5. Present Conditions
11
11
11
5.1.2 LOCAL ECONOMY
(a) Economic Sectors and Employment
Consistent with trends across the nation, 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.
TABLE 5.1.2 (A)(1) MANUFACTURING VERSUS NON -MANUFACTURING EMPLOYMENT
BRUNSWICK COUNTY
Selected Years 1970-95
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
1995
NA
NA
NA
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 continued to decline,
employment in trade continues to grow. At the same time, the continued rapid growth and
development of the county has witnessed sizable increases in the percentage of the work force
involved in construction.
TABLE 5.1.2 (A)(2) EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR, COUNTY AND STATE, 1994
Employment Sector 1994 % of Cnty % of NC 92-94 % A 92-94 % AL 94 Ave % of NC
Employmt Emp Empl Cnty Empl NC Empl Wage Ave Wage
Agriculture 144 0.9% 1.2% 9.1% 15.9% $12,335 76.8%
Construction 1,235 7.4% 5.0% 30.4% 14.4% $17,554 76.8%
Finan/Ins/Real Est 1,195 7.1% 4.3% 29.0% 8.0% $15,627 51.0%
Government 3,095 18.5% 15.7% 4.4% 5.1 % $22,430 89.3%
Manufacturing 2,312 13.8% 25.8% -8.1% 3.2% $35,789 134.3%
Services 2,431 14.5% 20.3% 11.3% 13.2% $17,133 79.4%
Retail/Whl Trade 3,897 23.3% 23.0% 20.3% 7.0% $11,746 7.0%
Trans/Corr/Pub Util 2,410 14.4% 4.8% 6.5% 5.8% $40,808 125.9%
Total 16,730 100.0% 100.0% 10.2% 7.3% $22,726 97.0%
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
page 5-15

5. Present Conditions
CHART 5.1.2 (A)(2)
% of Employment By Sector, 1994
Brunswick County Versus North Carolina
Transport/Comm
/Pub Utilities
Retail/Wholesale
Trade
Services
Manufacturing
Government
Finan/Ins/Real
Estate
Construction
Agriculture
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
(a.1) Commuting Patterns
The U.S. Census showed that in 1990 there were 7,470 Brunswick County residents who
worked outside the County while roughly twice that number, 14,536, both lived and worked in
Brunswick County. At the same time, the Census revealed that 4,347 workers commuted into
Brunswick County for employment. Thus, while one might normally think of Brunswick County as
a bedroom community for the more heavily urbanized New Hanover and Horry Counties, the
commuting statistics reveal that many residents of other counties come to Brunswick County for
work. The presence of large employers such as Dupont and the CP&L Nuclear Power Plant no
doubt contribute substantially to this daily in -migration of workers.
It will be interesting to see how these numbers change with the year 2000 Census.
Conceivably, as useable land area in New Hanover and Horry Counties becomes more scarce,
and/or expensive, newcomers to southeastern North Carolina may indeed choose to reside in
Brunswick County and commute to the urban centers of Wilmington and Myrtle Beach.
page 5-16

5. Present Conditions
(b) Average Weekly Wages
It should be noted that the average weekly wage for manufacturing and transportation,
communication, and utilities may appear high to some observers. Such high average weekly
wages are not the norm for most industries in the county; rather, they are the result of several
industries which employ a large number of workers at significantly higher than average wages for
the region and state. (These industries include, but are not limited to: CP&L, Cogentrix and
Dupont)
TABLE 5.1.2 (B) AVERAGE WEEKLY WAGE BY MAJOR EMPLOYMENT CATEGORY
BRUNSWICK COUNTY
1979, 1984, 1989, 1994
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
1990
420
612 696
177
309
1994
437
688 785
226
338
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
$800
$700
$600
$500
$400
$300
$200
$100
CHART 5.1.2 (B)
Average Wages by Major Employment Category
Brunswick County 1979 to 1994
1979 1984 1989 1994
page 5-17
10 Manufacturing
e Transportation,
Communication, and Utilities
9 Trade
!■ Construction
0 Average Wage Overall

5. Present Conditions I
State -Local Comparisons Employment by Major Category
'
(c) of
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 kept the county's percentage of employment in Transportation,
Communication and Utilities quite high for many years. As the County has continued to grow and
its employment base has diversified, however, these percentages have become more on a par
with that of the state as a whole.
'
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 and Leland (and elsewhere) may act to reduce this leakage, it may take
several years for the full impact to be realized.
'
Regarding the elimination of the CP&L plant in particular, some would say that it is not a question of if but when, since
the facility continues to age closer to its scheduled life span.
TABLE 5.1.2 (C) INSURED EMPLOYMENT BY MAJOR CATEGORY
'
BRUNSWICK COUNTY AND NORTH CAROLINA
1983, 1990, AND 1994
1983 1990 1994
'
Category County State County State County State
1983 1983 1990 1990 1994 1994
Agriculture, Forestry & 0.3 0.7 0.6 1.0 0.6 0.9
Fishing
Construction 5.9 4.7 7.0 5.3 7.0 7.4
Manufacturing 33.7 33.7 18.0 28.3 18.0 13.8
Transportation, 15.5 4.8 14.8 4.9 14.8 14.4
'
Communications and
Utilities
Wholesale & Retail 14.1 21.6 20.3 23.0 20.3 23.3
Finance, Insurance and 2.4 4.0 5.3 4.3 5.3 7.1
'
Real Estate
Services 7.8 13.9 14.1 17.4 14.1 14.5
Government 20.3 16.4 19.8 15.5 19.8 18.5
'
100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100:0%
Source: NC Employment Security Commission
1
page 5-18
t

5. Present Conditions
f
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
CHART 5.1.2 (C)
Employment Trends by Major Sector
1983 to 1994, Brunswick County
XN
MEN
OWN
NEON
I
INN
MEN
1983 1990 1994
(d) Unemployment Rates
a Government
■ Services
13 Finance, Ins & Real Est
13 Wholesale & Retail
E3 Transport, Comm & Util
0 Manufacturing
B Construction
■ Agri, Forestry & Fishing
Brunswick County has consistently exhibited a higher unemployment rate than both neighboring
New Hanover County and the State of North Carolina. Reasons for this on -going difference may
include:
The presence of a disproportionately large "underground economy"*, (relative to other counties
of similar size) 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.
— Employment opportunities for some segments of the population away from the area during the
summer. These same segments then return to the area during the winter months to collect
unemployment.
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).
page 5-19

5. Present Conditions I
TABLE 5.1.2 (D) UNEMPLOYMENT RATES
Brunswick
and New Hanover Counties, and State Averages
1987-1997
Area
1987
1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995
1996
1997
Brunswick
9.4
7.6 7.6 6.2 8.5 10. 10. 10. 8.9
7.3
8.9
9 7 4
New Hanover
6.2
4.6 4.0 4.6 6.0 7.3 7.0 6.9 5.7
4.6
5.7
State of NC
4.5
3.6 3.5 4.2 5.8 6.0 4.9 4.4 4.3
4.3
4.3
Source:
NC Employment Security Commission and Glenn Harbeck Associates
CHART 5.1.2 (D)
Unemployment Rates, 1987 to 1996
Brunswick County, New Hanover County
and North Carolina
12
ca
o:
8
6
-
a
4��
E�
�.
0
r- CC) rn
CC) 00 00
rn rn rn
r r �
M rn of v LO co
rn rn rn
Q' 0 rn
T r T
Brunswick
Vew Hanover
:ate of NC
(e) Per Capita Income
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.
TABLE 5.1.2 (E) PER CAPITA INCOME
Brunswick County and North Carolina
1970, 1980, 1989 and 1994
1970 1980 1989
1994
Brunswick County. 2,363 5,981 11,303
15,777
State of NC 3,220 7,780 15,287
19,567
County Income as a 73.4% 76.9% 73.7%
80.6%
% of State Income
Source: US Dept. of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis
page 5-20

5. Present Conditions
FIB
CHART 5.1.2 (E)
Per Capita Personal Income
Brunswick County and North Carolina
Selected Years, 1970 to 1994
20,000 _
18,000
16,000
14,000
Ca 12,000
p° 10,000
8,000
6 6,000
4,000
2,000
11
1970 1,980 1989 1994
(f) Agricultural Income and Harvested Cropland
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.
TABLE 5.1.2 (F) AGRICULTURAL INCOME AND HARVESTED CROPLAND
Brunswick County, 1980-1994
YEAR 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
1991 19.1 18.8
1992 18.4 17.8
1993 14.5 24.7
1994 16.0 15.3
Source: USDA and Brunswick County Extension Service
page 5-21

5. Present Conditions
CHART 5.1.2 (f)
Cropland and Farm Income, 1980 to 1994
Brunswick County
35
30
d �
~ 25
e 20
w �
o e
;n 15
o10
�i
0
(g) Number and Size of Farms
Total Cr opl and
Fot al Income
An overall decrease in the number of farms in Brunswick County is consistent with national
trends. This is due in some measure to the consolidation of smaller farms into larger farming
operations. Also, in coastal -oriented Brunswick County, there continue to be 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.
500
400
300
20C
10(
CHART 5.1.2 (g)
Number and Size of Farms, 1982 to 1992
Brunswick County
1992
page 5-22
umber of Farms
s of Farms (Acres)

5. Present Conditions
(h) Seafood Landings— Poundage and Value
Another traditional, resource -based element of Brunswick County's economy is the seafood
industry. The table below shows that, compared to agriculture, the seafood industry has
generally been holding its own with regard to the total "harvest' and value of catch.
TABLE 5.1.2 (h) SEAFOOD LANDINGS, POUNDAGE AND VALUE
Brunswick County, 1986-1996
Year
Pounds Value
Caught ($Millions)
(Millions)
1996
2.8 4.6
1995
3.7 5.3
1994
3.0 4.5
1993
2.4 3.6
1992
2.3 3.5
1991
2.7 3.8
1990
3.0 4.6
1989
2.4 3.9
1988
2.0 3.1
1987
1.9 3.1
1986
2.1 3.3
Source: Sheryl Phillips,
NC Division of Marine Fisheries, Morehead City, NC, September 1997
6
5
4
3
2
1
CHART 5.1.2 (h)
Seafood Landings
Poundage and Value
Brunswick County 1986-1996
- rn Qj rn to co
T T T 0)
r 0)
�_ r
page 5-23
✓alue ($Millions)
Inds Caught (Millions)

5. Present Conditions
t
5.1.3 Impact Seasonal Population
'
of
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 Information
presented below is intended to give some indication of the proportion of permanent to seasonal
residents over the past two decades.
'
(a) Population Impacts
The table immediately below compares Census counts of the county's permanent population
with estimates of the county's peak seasonal population during the 1980's and 1990's.
'
TABLE 5.1.3 (A) YEAR ROUND AND SEASONAL POPULATION GROWTH
Brunswick County, 1980-1995
'
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
'
1995 60,500 178,120 3:1
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990, Brunswick County Planning Department and Glenn Harbeck Associates
(b) Housing Impacts
The table below shows the relationship between year round and seasonal housing units during
,
the 1980 to 1990 period. (No comparable information is available for the 1990 to 1995 timeframe)
Most significant, perhaps, is that the number of seasonal housing units as a percentage of total
housing units declined slightly during the 1980's. This may be.a reflection of the number of
retirees moving to the county on a permanent basis.
'
TABLE 5.1.3 (B) YEAR ROUND AND SEASONAL HOUSING GROWTH
Brunswick County, 1980-1990 '
Year Total Housing Year Round Seasonal Housing Seasonal % of all
Units Housing Units Units -housing units '
1980 21,565 12,411 9,154 42%
1990 37,114 22,000 15,114 40%
Source: US Censuses, 1980 and 1990 '
(c) Impacts on Retail Sales
The table on the following page illustrates the highly seasonal nature of the retail economy of '
Brunswick County. From a seasonal low of approximately $21 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. Also note that the shoulder seasons have been showing '
a significant impact on retail sales. Observe that for the late Spring months of April and May, and
for the Fall months of September, October, and November, retail sales exceeded 25 million
dollars. This may be due to the influence of shoulder season golf packages to the ever growing
number of golf courses in the County. It is expected that when future retail figures come out, this
trend will be even more pronounced.
page 5-24

5. Present Conditions
1
1
1
1
i
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
TABLE 5.1.3 (C) GROSS RETAIL SALES BY MONTH, 1990
Month
Sales in Millions
of Dollars
Millions o
Above or Below
Monthly Ave
January
February
March
April
May
June
u
August
eptem er
c o er
November
December
3.2
Diff. between
Feb. and Aug.
15.1
—
Monthly Ave.
23.2—
CHART 5.1.3 (C) GROSS RETAIL SALES BY MONTH, 1990
Gross Retail Sales by Month
Brunswick County 1990
$40
$35
$30
c $25
$20
$15
$10
$5
0 Ca C a`) `m a`) `m
to Q Q a) U > U
-� CL O d
LL W Z
U)
page 5-25

Present Conditions I
5.2 Existing Land Use and Water Quality Analysis
5.2.1 Existing Land Uses Mapped
(a) 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 over time. 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 surrey 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 refining its first'zoning
ordinance for the unincorporated area, 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. For the 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.
(b) 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 has also been collected. Municipal level land use information,
however, is not included on the existing land use map found in the back of this plan. For such
information, the reader is directed to the individual land use plans of each of these municipalities.
The existing land use data that is presented in this report is based largely upon the working
knowledge of the staff of the County's Planning Department, and upon subdivision plats and
commercial site plans as submitted.
5.2.2 Analysis by Geographic Areas of General Recognition
Due to the relatively large size of Brunswick County (approximately 855 sq. miles) this land use
analysis divides Brunswick County into seven geographic sub -areas:
Shallotte to the State Line
Shallotte River to Lockwood Folly
The Southport Oak Island Area
The Belville-Leland-Navassa Area
Town Creek/Winnabow/Mill Creek
Ash/Waccamaw
Supply/Sunset Harbor
These seven 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
This area is the fastest growing part of Brunswick County. The area has continued to experience
the spillover effects from continued rapid growth in the Grand Strand/Myrtle Beach area of South
page 5-26

11
Present Conditions
1
Carolina during the 1980's and 90's. 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.* (A typical golf -course oriented development might range from 500 to 1250 acres, of which
no less than about 150 acres is taken up by the golf course. The average gross density in such
developments is usually quite low, on the order of 1.5 to 2 housing units per acre.) 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 and services. Examples
of this include the Food Lion grocery store and Revco drug store at Seaside (within the Town of
Sunset Beach), and the South Brunswick Branch of the Postal Service at Seaside.
In recent 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. Demand for office developments stems from
the growing employment ranks of realtors, medical personnel, attorneys, and insurance agents in
the Shallotte area. This general resurgence in the Shallotte area has included developments such
as Huddle House, Shallotte Business Park, Comfort Inn, Wendy's, and Naber Commercial Park,
and has been supported in no small way by the expansion of the Town's sewer system. Finally,
there has been a continuation of the long standing strip commercial development along NC 179
across from Ocean Isle Beach.
*Beyond the Shallotte/State Line area, several large scale PUD's have been approved in various parts of Brunswick
County. In the last five years, these existing large scale PLIUS have included: Brick Landing, Brunswick Plantation,
St. James Plantation, Lockwood Folly, Meadow Lands, Sandpiper Bay.
Area 2 Shallotte River to Lockwood Folly River
In recent years, this centrally located, coastal oriented area has been 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. In recent years, Lockwood Folly Golf Links has
C
absorbed a significant number of new housing units in this area.
Scattered commercial development can be found at various locations in the area. A significant
concentration of commercial development is 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. For more substantial shopping needs,
commercial services and retail outlets in the Town of Shallotte also draw from this area.
Significant boat building operations can be found in the Varnamtown area along the west shore of
the Lockwood Folly River.
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 Power
Plant, Archer, Daniels, Midland, and the 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 City of Southport
and the Town of Long Beach, to more seasonal housing at 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, St. James Plantation, which opened in the fall of
1991, is reported to be one of the fastest growing planned unit developments in the nation.
page 5-27

Conditions
In recent years, the amount of commercial services has increased significantly at Long Beach. In
addition, a moderate amount of commercial development is located within the City of Southport
and its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). Many of these are "mom and pop" type small businesses.
A planned sewer system by the Southeast Brunswick Sanitary District west of Southport and to
the mainland side of Yaupon Beach will likely stimulate development in that area. The planned
construction of an additional bridge to Oak Island toward the west central end of the beach is
another infrastructure improvement which, if built, will radically alter development patterns in this
part of the county. Prospects for the bridge currently look very favorable.
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 its highest.
Area 4 The Beiville-Leland-Navassa Area
The Belville-Leland-Navassa Area encompasses the three named municipalities.as well as
significant development and land outside these communities. 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 manufacturing plant on the Brunswick County side of the river draws
large numbers of employees from the Wilmington area.
Recent developments in this area include the approval of Magnolia Greens, a 1,200 lot
residential -golf course development located between Lanvale Rd and the Lincoln Industrial Park
(in Leland), as well as about 300 residential_ lots just north of Olde Towne Subdivision (in
Belville). A new elementary school, Belville Elementary, has also recently been built on NC 133
in Belville. It appears that sewer will be expanded into many parts of the area in the next five
years. If this happens urban growth will likely continue. The planned US 17 Wilmington Bypass
will likely have an impact on the area beyond the five year planning period.
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. A new nine -hole
commercial golf course, Green Hill, recently opened in the Winnabow area. While there has
traditionally been very little industrial, office or retail development in this part of the county, a new
industrial building opened in the Fall of 1997 on U.S. 17 across from Town Creek Park. 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, relatively little
page 5-28

Present Conditions
activity is seen in this area. New subdivisions established in this area tend to be quite small, and
with few public or private improvements and little, if any, amenities.
Area 7 Supply/Sunset Harbor
This area, which includes the area surrounding the NC 211 and US 17 intersection and the
eastern side of the Lockwood Folly River, has experienced significant growth in recent years and
will likely continue to grow in the foreseeable future. As a result of the development of the large
planned residential community (Winding River Plantation) and the approval of subdivisions along
Sunset Harbor Road, this area is likely to see significant growth during the planning period.
In addition, there is considerable interest in commercial development near the US 17/NC 211
intersection. This area potentially could develop into a significant commercial/retail center in the
next few years.
5.2.3 Land Use Analysis by Watershed Areas .
In addition to analyzing land -use by geographic areas of general recognition, this plan also
examines land usage by significant watershed areas in the County. In this manner, the analysis
may serve to increase awareness about the relationship between land use and water quality in
Brunswick County.
In the analysis which follows, the following terminology is employed:
For freshwater bodies:
Fully Supporting— for any one pollutant, criteria exceeded in less than or equal to 10%
of measurements taken
Partially Supporting— for any one pollutant, criteria exceeded in 11 to 25% of
measurements taken
Non Supporting— for any one pollutant, criteria exceeded in less than or equal to 10% of
measurements taken
For estuarine water bodies:
SA Waters —generally suitable for shellfish harvesting and primary recreation involving
swimming on a frequent or organized basis.
SB Waters —suitable for primary recreation involving swimming on a frequent or
organized basis, but not for shellfish harvesting.
SC Waters —suitable for aquatic life propagation and secondary recreation including
recreational fishing, boating, and water related activities involving minimal skin contact.
Each major watershed will now be discussed in turn.
Waccamaw River Watershed
For the purposes of this analysis, this large watershed includes several smaller watersheds
stretching across the entire length of the northwest side of the Brunswick County. Beginning in
the southwest corner near Calabash and moving to the northeast, these smaller watersheds
include Calabash Creek, Caw Caw Swamp, the Waccamaw River sub -watershed, Possum
Branch, and Juniper Creek. Of the five smaller watersheds, only Calabash Creek and the Caw
Caw has any appreciable urban level development— primarily related to the rapidly growing
area around Calabash. The balance of the Waccamaw River watershed is largely rural in
character, with farming and forestry the predominant land uses. Unincorporated localities within the
watershed include Hickman's Crossroads, Thomasboro Crossroads, Longwood, the
Waccamaw/Ash area, Freeland, and Exum.
page 5-29

Present Conditions I
Calabash Creek is the only sub watershed in the area
is classified as an SA water, it is nonetheless closed to
watersheds area do not drain directly into any estuarin
cannot be characterized. Mapped information provided
Management indicates that nearly all of the Waccama
classified as a Partially Supporting Stream. While some
locations north of Brunswick County, one stream in the
Non -Supporting Stream.
Shallotte River Watershed
e
which involves estuarine waters. While it
shellfishing. The remaining sub -
waters, so direct impacts on the estuary
by the NC Division of Coastal
w River along the length of the County is
sources of pollutants are clearly from
Waccamaw/Ash area is designated as a
For the purposes of this analysis, this smaller watershed includes Saucepan Creek, the Shallotte
River and the Intracoastal Waterway. The Town of Shallotte and its rapidly developing environs
is the predominate urban feature located in the midst of the drainage basin. Like most creeks along
the estuarine coast of the County, the Shallotte River is classified as an SA water but is closed to
shellfishing in its upper reaches closest to Shallotte.
Lockwood Folly River Watershed
For the purposes of this analysis, this smaller watershed includes the Royal Oak Swamp, the
Lockwood Folly River and the Intracoastal Waterway. While Varnumtown is the only incorporated
municipality in the area, other localities within the watershed include Supply and -Bolivia. As noted
in the discussion of land use above, this area is seeing an influx of much new residential
development as well as commercial development in the Supply area. Like the Shallotte River, the
Lockwood Folly River is classified as an SA water but is closed to shellfishing over all but the
lower reaches of the River closest to the intracoastal waterway.
Cape Fear River Watershed
For the purposes of this analysis, this large watershed includes several smaller watersheds
stretching along the length of the Cape Fear on the east side of Brunswick County. Beginning to
the north and proceeding south along the River, these smaller watersheds include Hood Creek,
Barnards Creek, Town Creek, and the Cape Fear River sub -watershed. Of the four smaller
watersheds, Hood Creek and Town Creek are largely of rural character but with significant
pockets of residential development. The Hood Creek watershed includes the municipalities of
Northwest and Sandy Creek, while the Town Creek basin includes the crossroads communities
of Bishop and Winnabow. -
The Barnards Creek watershed, on the other hand encompasses the highly urbanized, and in
some cases, industrialized areas in and around Leland and Belville. Lastly, the Cape Fear River
sub -watershed is easily the most highly urbanized and industrialized area of Brunswick County.
In addition to the municipalities of Southport, Boiling Spring Lakes, and Bald Head Island, the area
also includes the Carolina Power and Light Nuclear Power Plant, Archer, Daniels, Midland, the
Cogentrix Cogenerating Facility, and the Sunny Point Ocean Military Terminal.
Regarding water quality, the Cape Fear River is classified primarily SA at the lower end where
the tidal flushing action of the ocean is strongest, and SC for the balance of the river to a point
north of Leland Belville. There is also a relatively small area of SC waters immediately adjacent to
the Southport waterfront. Shellfishing is not permitted near the industrial area north of Southport,
but is otherwise permitted in the river's lower reaches.
Note: For a summary of land use issues and trends facing the County, the reader is directed to
Section 1.1 of the Executive Summary of this plan.
page 5-30

Present Conditions
5.3 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 in this section. The capability of the County to enforce its various regulatory functions is
described in the paragraphs immediately following.
Brunswick County Building Inspections Office (BIO)
The County Building Inspections Office is a full service inspections department with four certified
building inspectors, two electrical inspectors and two clerical assistants.
Brunswick County's Central Permitting Office (CPO)
Several years ago, Brunswick County brought together many of its permitting functions into one
central location. This was done to improve service and convenience to the public as well as to
improve coordination among the various permitting functions of the County. As a result, the
application and permit issuance process for several regulatory functions is handled in the CPO:
general building permits, electrical permits, plumbing permits, mechanical permits, environmental
health permits for septic tanks (from the Health Department), floodplain regulation verifications,
and zoning permits.
Note: In addition to handling building inspections in the unincotporated area, the Inspections
Office also has agreements with several towns in the county to provide inspections services. At
the time of this writing, the County was handling inspections for the following municipalities:
Leland, Navassa, Belville, Northwest, Varnumtown, Sandy Creek, and Bolivia. Agreements with
other towns were pending. The reader is advised to check with the County Inspections Office for
a current list of municipalities for which the County has responsibility.
Brunswick County Planning Department
' The Planning Department serves as the administrative office for several regulatory functions
including zoning, subdivision regulations, and CAMA Minor Permits. Zoning enforcement actions
are generally initiated in one of two ways— either the zoning administrator observes a violation
' directly or a possible violation is brought to the administrator's attention through a citizen
complaint. In either case, the possible violation is investigated and correspondence is sent to the
property owner advising of the action needed to correct the problem. The Department also
administers the County subdivision ordinance through the review of subdivision plats, and the
' zoning ordinance through zoning amendments and review of requested zoning changes. The local
CAMA Permit Officer is also located in the Planning Department.
5.3.1 Selected Local Government Plans, Policies, and Regulations
1976 Brunswick County Land Use Plan
This was the first county -wide land use plan 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, 1987 and 1992 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. The 1992 Plan included a new, freestanding section on implementation actions,
allowing County officials the ability to better track progress on intended programs and actions.
' Brunswick County Thoroughfare Plan
In March of 1988, 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
page 5-31

Present Conditions
governments and Chambers of Commerce in Brunswick County. A new transportation plan is
currently being developed, and is scheduled for completion before the end of 1998.
1990 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 on 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. Due to the continuing rapid growth of the County
since 1990, the plan is now out of date in many respects.
Subdivision Regulations
Brunswick County has had a subdivision ordinance in place since 1974; it was subsequently
updated in June of 1980. In 1992, a new subdivision ordinance became effective, after a long,
protracted process of review and approval. The 1992 ordinance included several substantial
improvements. For the first time, paved roads were required in major subdivisions —according to
North Carolina Department of Transportation standards.The ordinance also called for more
involvement by the County planning staff in the review process and an earlier examination of
subdivisions at the sketch plan stage. Currently, the 1992 ordinance is undergoing a much
needed update.
Zoning
Brunswick County had no zoning for the unincorporated area until fairly recently. 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. The new ordinance and zoning maps were adopted in the fall of 1993 and went into
effect on January 1, 1994. The ordinance categorized over 70,000 parcels of land into one of six
zoning districts. It should be noted the need for planning and growth management, including
zoning, was generally supported at the public workshops held during the early stages of the land
use plan process.
Airport Zoning
There are two publicly owned general aviation airports in the county: the Brunswick County
Airport and the Ocean Isle Beach Airport. To protect the utility of each airport and to ensure public
safety concerning land uses around each facility, the County enacted an Airport Zoning
Ordinance in the early 1980s. The ordinance is enforced through the joint actions of each airport's
management and the County's Building Inspections Division.
State Building Code Enforcement
In 1985, County instituted 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.
Federal Flood Insurance Program
Also in 1985, the County began administration of the Federal Flood Insurance Program
regulations. Enforcement began the following year, following receipt of an acceptable set of Flood
Insurance Rate Maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Under the program, if
the structure is located in a flood prone area, certification of the structure's ground floor elevation,
along with appropriate flood protection measures are required.
Waste Water Treatment Regulation
The Environmental Health section of the County Health Department administers and enforces
state law regarding septic tank systems with a treatment capacity of up to 3,000 gallons per day
Treatment systems with capacities in excess of 3,000 gallons per day are handled by the State.
The Division of Water Quality in the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
page 5-32

Present Conditions
' Resources exercises authority over other waste water treatment disposal systems (i.e. spray
irrigation, NPDES discharges).
' 5.3.2 Selected 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 selected list of a few 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, (most current edition) by the NC Department of Environment
and Natural Resources.
' For each item following, 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.
CAMA MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
' NC Division of Coastal: Management.
The Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) 'stipulates that State issued permits are required for
all development or land disturbing activities within designated Areas of Environmental Concern
' (AEC'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.
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.
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. .
' 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. It should be noted that Brunswick County has no ordinance governing
private wells.
' 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.)
1
page 5-33

Present Conditions
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. In Brunswick County, written approval of
any such sedimentation control plan must be verified before any local building permit may be
issued.
STORMWATER CERTIFICATION
Division of Water Quality, Department of Environment and Natural Resources
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.
DREDGING AND FILLING ACTIVITY IN "404" WETLANDS
The Army Corps of Engineers
These are permits required under Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972
with rules as promulgated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Projects typically involve some
form of modification to existing wetland areas known as "404" wetlands, and may require
mitigation. Mitigation of wetland losses may involve, for example, the creation or permanent
preservation of new wetland areas as a trade off for existing wetland areas which are lost.
page 5-34

6. Constraints
I

Constraints
6. Constraints
6.1 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 1992 Land Use Plan, it has been updated where appropriate. This
is especially true in the area of mapping, where improved geographic data has been made
available for floodprone areas and for wetland areas.
6.1.1 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%.
(a) Major Hazard Areas
In Brunswick County, major hazard areas are of both natural and man-made origin.
Natural Hazard Areas
Natural hazard areas are generally areas of shallow flooding as well as areas which are subject to
wave velocity. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has designated flood
hazard areas in Brunswick County. Since the last Land Use Plan Update, this information has
been entered into the County's Geographic Information System (GIS), with the result being a
much improved depiction of the likely extent of flooding during a 100 year storm event. As such,
the information is acceptable for general planning purposes. This information should not be relied
upon, however, for detailed site planning. Rather, 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 shall supersede any information discernible from a general planning map.
I
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 could also be
potentially hazardous in the event of a crash.
' Many of the above -described natural and manmade hazard areas are identified on the composite
Hazardous Areas Map. Airstrip locations are also shown on the Community Facilities Map.
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.
' Inadequate and unsafe road conditions generated considerable public comment in both the 1987
and 1992 Land Use Plans, as well as during the most recent round of public input meetings. As
roads throughout the County are gradually corrected for their design and safety deficiencies, it is
hoped that increases in traffic accidents due to increased population growth and traffic congestion
' can be minimized.
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6. Constraints
(b) Areas With Soil Limitations
Soil limitations are characterized by poor drainage, foundation hazards, and septic tank
unsuitability. Distinctions can be made between areas which are characterized 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, relatively 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.
In recent years, the County has come under criticism from some property owners for the manner
and speed with which decisions concerning site evaluations for septic tank suitability have been
handled. Regardless of whether such criticism is deserved or owing to the tremendous growth in a
county permeated with wet soils, the County has taken steps to increase its staffing capabilities
in this important area. More on this subject is presented in the paragraphs following. -
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). This situation
may be compounded by poor maintenance (i.e. cleaning) of tanks and occupancy which exceeds
septic system design (such as rental property, both residential and resort).
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 zoning ordinance now specifies minimum lot
acreages based on the availability of piped water and/or sewer service.
page 6-2

6. Constraints
A septic tank suitability map, prepared under the auspices of the State Division of Coastal
Management, is available for inspection at the Brunswick County Planning Department. The map
indicates, on its face, that there are few areas sustainable for septic tank use in Brunswick
County. Nonetheless, even the producers of the map agree that a regional analysis of soils for
septic tank suitability must be very broad brush in nature; soils may be modified through site
engineering, improved drainage, etc., thereby dramatically altering their suitability for use. Even
so, such a map is instructive in helping to understand the extent of the septic tank problem in a
low lying coastal county like Brunswick.
' (c) 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 6.2.1 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 as demand on groundwater resources continues to
' grow, salt water infiltration of groundwater is most likely in the area from the ocean to U.S. 17, and
along the Cape Fear River north to the general area of the Dupont Plant. Since the time of the last
land use plan update in 1992, Brunswick County officials have indicated their strong concerns
about the potential impacts of a major mining operation proposed in the southeastern part of the
' County. Included among the impacts are concerns that the particular type of mining proposed
would require significant draw downs of the water table, thereby jeopardizing the quantity and
quality of groundwater for other users in the County.
(d) Areas Which Exceed 12% Slope
There are no known substantial areas in the unincorporated area of Brunswick County with
' slopes as extreme as 12%, excepting small ravines and banks associated with drainage
courses.
(e) Shoreline Areas With High Erosion Potential
fThe 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.
page 6-3

6. Constraints
(f) Small Watersheds Draining Into Special Waters
An examination of Water Quality and Watershed Mapping provided by the State Division of
Coastal Management for Brunswick County indicates the following about several of the County's
better known watersheds draining into special waters:
Table 6.1.1 (f) Small Watersheds Draining Into Special Waters
Watershed
High Quality
Primary
SA Waters?
Open to
Stream?
Nursery Area?
Shellfishing?
Shallotte River
es
es
Yes
Lowerreaches
Saucepan Greek
Yes
Yes
Yes
o
Lockwood o y
Yes
es
Yes
Lowerreaches
River
Greek, )ust west
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
of Southport
ree , mi I es
north of
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Southport
Town Creek
No
No
No
NA
Intracoastal
es
Yes
No
Waterway, Near
SC State Line
General area ot
NA
Yes
Yes
Mostly open
Bald Head Island
The maps reveal that, for the most part, Brunswick County possesses several high quality
streams which continue to generate an abundance of biological activity. At the same time, shellfish
closings limit the ability of local area residents and fishermen to capitalize on this natural
abundance. The Lockwood Folly River, in particular, has been a focus of study on water quality
issues for many years. Among the many issues related to the Lockwood Folly, is the on -going
debate about relocating the mouth of the river to enhance the natural flushing action of the tides,
thereby increasing the water quality of the estuary. The environmental, as well as financial
implications of such action are currently the chief subjects of the debate.
6.1.2 FRAGILE AREAS
(a) General
Fragile areas are those areas which could be easily damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or
poorly planned development. Included are coastal wetlands, sand dunes, ocean beaches and
shorelines, estuarine waters and shorelines, outstanding resource waters, public trust waters,
complex natural areas, areas sustaining remnant species, unique geologic formations, national
landmarks, wooded swamps, prime wildlife habitats, scenic points, archaeological and historical
sites, maritime forests, and "404" wetlands.
(b) Areas of Environmental Concern Described Elsewhere in this Plan
Some of the fragile areas have been specifically designated by the State of North Carolina as
being critical resource areas; environmentally significant and vulnerable to damage and destruction
by development. These "Areas of Environmental Concern" or "AEC's" are described in detail,
along with applicable policies, under Section 8.1.2 of the Resource Protection Policies Section of
this plan. Other fragile areas are more fully described below. Areas listed in this section include
important natural or manmade sites which do not conveniently fit into state promulgated 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. Many of
these sensitive areas are identified on the Fragile Areas Map, which is presented in the back of
this plan.
page 6-4

6. Constraints
L
(c) 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
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. Detailed descriptions of some of the more significant
sites are available from the Brunswick County Planning Department.
(d) 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.
(e) 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.
(f) Areas Identified Through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife National Wetlands Inventory
Brunswick County, like other coastal communities, has been included in the National Wetlands
Inventory (NWI) Program. U.S. Fish and Wildlife has used the USGS 7.5' or 15' map series as a
base. The USGS maps for Brunswick County delineate wetlands by stereoscopically
interpreting high altitude aerial photography and then transferring the information with a zoom
page 6-5

6. Constraints
transfer scope to the base map. With the advent of mapping provided by the NWI, the full extent
of the wetland areas that permeate the county can now be better understood. By way of
information, most of the "404" wetlands (as well as coastal wetlands) indicated on the NWI
mapping have been designated as Conservation on the Land Classification Map. (See Section 9
for more detail.)
6.1.3 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.
(a) Productive and Unique Agricultural Land
The Governor's Executive Order 96, Conservation of Prime Agricultural and Forests, sets forth
the State's policy 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.
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
TOTAL
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
page 6-6

6. Constraints
k
11
Tomahawk
4,975 acres
Torhunta
3,994 acres
Wando
12,176 acres
Woodington
29,703 acres
TOTAL
260,190 acres
UNIQUE LAND SOILS
Leon Fine Sand
45,611 acres
Murville Mucky Fine Sand
39,490 acres
GRAND 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.
(b) Valuable Mineral Sites
Historically, mineral production and mining interests in Brunswick County have involved primarily
the extraction of sand and gravel for construction purposes. There are known deposits of sand
and gravel and coquina scattered throughout the county. Such mining interests have ranged from
relatively small borrow pits to more extensive mining operations involving as many as 100 acres
of land. Examples of the operations involving the larger acreages may be found currently in the
vicinity of Hickman's Crossroads between Shallotte and the South Carolina line.
Until recently, it was generally thought that there were few other marketable mineral deposits in
Brunswick County. Then, in 1992, the Martin Marietta Company made known its interest in
extracting large quantities of limestone from a site in the county north of Southport. Since that time,
there has been considerable debate, including court action, regarding the desirability, safety, and
environmental concerns regarding the nature of such a mining operation. It is not known at this
time the extent to which similar deposits may be located elsewhere in the County.
(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.
Various large private land holdings 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.
(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 area consists mainly of
marsh, water, and small islands).
page 6-7

6. Constraints
Within this area are several different management and administrative jurisdictions. The area
adjacent to the New Hanover County line is part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve
System. This is a federal -state program (Section 315 of the Coastal Zone Management Act)
which provides matching funds to participating states for the acquisition, development and
management 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 reserve is
owned by the state and managed by the Division of Coastal Management in partnership with the
National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration.
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 the North
Carolina National Research Reserve. This area is managed primarily as an educational and
research site, though compatible recreational uses are allowed. For further information regarding
the Zeke's Island site, contact the Reserve Coordinator, Division of Coastal Management at the
UNCW/CMSR in Wilmington at [phone] ext 243. `
South of Zeke's Island Reserve lies Smith Island, which includes Bald Head, Middle, and Bluff
Islands, plus associated beaches and coastal wetlands. Though most of Bald Head and Middle
Islands are in private ownership, state ownership elsewhere within the complex includes about
10,000 acres of upland. The majority of this public land is administered by the NC Division of
Parks and Recreation, while 174 acres of maritime forest comprise the Bald Head Island Coastal
Reserve site managed by the Division of Coastal Management. The Wildlife Resources
Commission, the Division of Marine Fisheries and the Division of Coastal Management have
regulatory and enforcement jurisdiction throughout the area.
Battery Island and Striking Island have been leased by the State to the Audubon Society for fifty
year periods.
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.
Eagle Island, a large, strategically located property opposite Wilmington's urban waterfront, has
recently come into light as having potential for significant recreational development. The recent
Cape Fear River Corridor Plan identified the island as a potential site fora multi -million dollar
sports complex for this former and existing spoil area. While the specific feasibility, of such a
project. is not included in this far-reaching, idea generating study, such prognostications about the
future of the island are simply more evidence of the influence of the rapidly growing�Wilmington
urban area on the west side of the Cape Fear River.
(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 more than two dozen 18-hole or larger golf courses
in Brunswick County, with more under construction.
page 6-8

6. Constraints
6.2 Community Facilities and Services
iAs discussed in the preceding section, the suitability of land for development presents one set of
constraints on the growth of the county. These mostly natural constraints are largely beyond the
control of man, without considerable and often costly modification of the land. 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 and where such services are needed, who will pay for them, how and when.
6.2.1 POTABLE WATER SYSTEM
' After years of study, the County entered the water business in 1974, establishing a water
treatment plant served by a well field, located about.2 miles west of the Southport -Oak Island
area, on NC 211. Trunk mains were provided to serve 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 (since abandoned). That system was upgraded in 1980 so that the "NC 211"
' groundwater plant is capable of producing 6 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 Caswell
Beach, Yaupon Beach, Long Beach, Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Shallotte,
and the Leland Sanitary District, (including the Towns of Belville, Leland and Navassa). In
addition, the communities of Northwest and Sandy Creek may soon be tied into the system.
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 northeast
area of the County. This 24 million gallon per day water treatment plant opened at Hoods Creek
in the mid- 1980's with an extensive additional network of trunk mains.
Since the establishment of the system, demand for water has increased steadily. At the end of
' the 1980's, the total median daily demand from all customers tied into the County system was 3.7
million gallons. By 1993, median daily demand had more than doubled to 10 million gallons per
day. At present (1997) median daily demand is estimated to be approaching 20 million gallons per
' day or 66% of the total system capacity of 30 million gallons.
Initial problems concerning low water pressure during peak season weekends at some beach
communities have been addressed and are being addressed though improvements in the water
' distribution system. At the time of this writing (4/98) the following system improvements were in
some stage of planning, implementation or completion:
• The Sunset Harbor interconnect will improve water flow and pressure to Oak Island.
• The Seashore Road/Boones Neck/Windy Point Road interconnect, in conjunction with the
' Town of Holden Beach intracoastal waterway crossing, will increase flow and pressure to
the west end of Holden Beach, as well as the Boones Neck area.
• Ocean Isle is installing a second elevated storage tank at the west end of the island.
• Line extensions along Ocean Isle Beach Road and Old Georgetown Road have increased
' flow and pressure to the Ocean Isle, Sunset Beach and Calabash areas.
page 6-9

6. Constraints
Plans for the Future
Currently, the County has contracted with an engineering firm to develop a computer model
capable of analyzing the existing system. Work on the model is expected to be completed
sometime in 1998.Once the model has been completed and calibrated to reflect actual conditions
in the field, the County will be able to effectively "balance" the system. This means that County
engineers and system operators will be able to determine the most efficient pumping rates, sizes
of future distribution lines, and storage facilities. This, in turn, will save on pumping costs, and will
allow the County to give clear directives to new developments coming on line.
Regardless of the modeling initiative, several other major new system components are already
being explored as likely additions to the County system. For example, with the tremendous
growth being experienced at the south end of the counter, engineers have begun to look into the
feasibility of establishing a third major raw water source in the area near the South Carolina line.
This raw water could come from the Waccamaw River or perhaps the Pee Dee groundwater
aquifer. In either case, it would provide the County with a third source of water. At the same time,
the County is exploring interconnnect possibilities with Little River, SC for emergency use only.
Regarding raw water storage, the County is operating with one-half days storage -in reserve. The
feasibility of building a new raw water reservoir at the Northwest Plant is being evaluated.
Telephone interview with Jeff Phillips, Co. Engineer & Lee Smith, Utilities Director, Brunswick Co., Sept. 25, 1997
6.2.2 SEWER
Many local leaders in Brunswick County see sewage treatment as the number one constraint to
development. The county's relatively spread out 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. For this reason, the County has appointed a Stormwater and Sewer
Oversight Committee to coordinate the development of various sewer utility systems in the
County. The work of the Committee is proceeding in phases, with the Phase 1 effort focusing on
an inventory of existing systems and system plans. Phase 2, if authorized by the County
Commissioners, will involve a needs assessment to determine which parts of the County are
most in need of sewer service. An engineering firm is assisting the Committee. Information on the
status and plans for various sewage treatment systems in the County is summarized below.
The Towns of Calabash and Sunset Beach have come together with Brunswick County to
form the South Brunswick Water and Sewer Authority. Efforts to follow through on the
establishment of the sewer system has not been without controversy. For example, following
completion of an Environmental Assessment in 1994, a Finding of No Significant Impact was
contested in court by some area property owners. Subsequent to that, the Authority has
undertaken the preparation of a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), intended to address
sewer induced secondary impacts and stormwater management. At the time of this writing (Sept.
1997), a draft of the full EIS was about to be released. If implemented as planned, the regional
sewer system would serve an approximate 55 square mile area of south Brunswick County,
including the Towns of Sunset Beach, Calabash and portions of unincorporated Brunswick
County. A planned phase one plant would treat up to 2 million gallons per day (GPD), with
phased expansions of up to 3.0 million gallons per day within 5 years of startup. The Town of
Shallotte is planning to expand its sewage treatment capacity from 208,000 gallons to 500,000
GPD. (The system is presently operating at about 65 % of capacity.)
The Town of Ocean Isle Beach operates a treatment system with a 1.25 million GPD peak
capacity. While actual treatment is limited to 750,000 GPD, the Town gains an additional 500,000
gallons of "capacity" through temporary lagoon storage. Future plans include an upgrading of the
plant to a tertiary level of treatment, thereby increasing the loading capacity of the Town's spray
fields. At the same time, the Town is continuing to move toward the development of a municipal
golf course on 380 acres of Town owned property adjacent to the treatment plant. Upon
completion, the golf course would also be employed for spray application.
page 6-10

6. Constraints
1
The Town of Long Beach has been serving as the lead agency on a regional wastewater
study for southeastern Brunswick County and several communities that are located there. The
final report is due out before the end of this year (1997). A draft of the study, now circulating, has
addressed a number of alternatives for wastewater collection, treatment and disposal. The central
issue of the study is the method by which treated effluent can best be disposed of. The general
thrust of the recommendations may be that each locality be responsible for its own collection
system, but that the various communities come together on sewage treatment and disposal.
At Yaupon Beach, a new plant went into operation in October 1993. In less than a year,
however, problems were discovered with the system's infiltration basin, requiring a moratorium on
new hook ups. Thus, while the system was originally approved for 400, 000 GPD, it is currently
limited to 180,000 GPD. To address the problem, the Town has commissioned a feasibility study
to evaluate alternative solutions: (1) spray effluent on the golf course, five holes of which are in
Yaupon Beach and the remaining 13 in Caswell Beach (2) send treated effluent to the discharge
line of the City of Southport. Ultimately, the Town supports a regional solution to the sewage
treatment needs of the area.
The City of Southport expanded its sewage treatment plant from 300,000 GPD to 800,000
GPD in 1987 and is today generally running at about 450,000 GPD or roughly 55% of capacity.
In light of the surplus capacity, the City recently agreed to accept up to 100,000 GPD from the
Southeastern Sanitary District under a long term contract. In the meantime, the District is
proceeding with plans to bring its own plant on-line (See below). Southport officials estimate that
the City -owned plant will reach maximum capacity in five to seven years.
Just west of Southport, the Southeastern Sanitary District is moving actively toward the
construction of a 500 thousand GPD treatment plant. If construction proceeds as scheduled, the
plant should be up and running by the Fall of 1998. Future plant capacity could be increased to
as much as 2 million gallons per day. The District is currently awaiting a $3.5 million grant from
FmHA, which is expected on or about October 10, 1997. Established in 1989, the planned
service area for the District extends from Beaverdam Creek on the east, to Highway 211 on the
north, to the CP&L discharge canal on the east, to the intracoastal waterway on the south.
' In the northeast part of the county, the County -owned sewage treatment plant at the Leland
Industrial Park was completed and placed in service in 1987. The 250,000 GPD plant is a
modular, packages stem capable of easy expansion. The plant is fed by a 4.5 mile 8" sewer
main. It is currently (1997) operating at about 14% of capacity, up from 10% in 1992. Plans for
i the near future include the provision of service to customers within the Leland Sanitary District.
To add residential users to the system, there are plans to expand plant capacity by 1 million
gallons per day. Under the service agreement, the County -owned plant would receive and treat
sewage effluent from a new force main serving the Sanitary District. The County would not,
however, be responsible for smaller service lines or the "retail, customer end" of the operation;
those responsibilities would be handled by the Sanitary District. The County is currently
(September 1997) receiving bids on the construction of the necessary force main. Also in the
' northeast part of the county, the Town of Belville operates its own sewage treatment plant,
with a capacity of 400,000 GPD. The Town has secured a permit to double the plant capacity to
800,000 GPD.
Each of the various sewer service areas, whether existing or proposed, is shown on the
Community Facilities Map, found at the back of this plan.
^I
J
Sources:
Telephone interview with Joe Tombro, South Brunswick Water and Sewer Authority, September 26, 1997.
Telephone interview with Druied Robinson, Building Inspector, Town of Ocean Isle Beach, September 26, 1997.
Telephone interview with Jerry Walters, Town Manager, Town of Long Beach, October 1, 1997.
Telephone interview with Nancy Wilson, Town Clerk, Town of Yaupon Beach, September 26, 1997.
Telephone interview with Robert Gandy, City Manager, City of Southport, September 26, 1997.
Telephone interview with James (Bubba) Smith, Chair, SE Brunswick Sanitary District, Sept. 26, 1997.
Telephone interview with Jeff Phillips, County Engineer and Lee Smith, Utilities Director, Brunswick County,
September 25, 1997.
page 6-11
17,

6. Constraints
6.2.3 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
Stormwater management continues to grow as one of the most pressing growth issues of the
1990's. Brunswick County is fundamentally low and flat, and is bounded by highly sensitive,
environmentally productive coastal waters. As development continues to occur, stormwater runoff
from roads, parking lots, driveways, rooftops and even grassed lawn areas is increased
substantially. Traditional stormwater management solutions often call for collecting runoff and
piping it to a receiving stream. This has several adverse impacts. First, it increases the volume of
runoff reaching area streams, thereby causing downstream flooding. Second, this sudden surge of
water following a rainfall event can cause dramatic swings in the salinity of estuarine waters,
thereby affecting estuarine productivity. Third, piping and dumping runoff usually increases the
amount of toxins which reach the receiving waters. Fourth, such systems are costly to build and
may quickly become undersized as areas farther uphill develop.
A second, more natural approach, involves the retention of water as close to the source as
possible, slowing its release and allowing for percolation of rainfall into the groundwater system.
This approach can involve the use of grassed swales instead of curb and gutter, the strategic
use of existing, low lying areas as natural retention basins, and the creation of naturally
vegetated buffer strips adjacent to streams and ditches. The disadvantages of this approach are
twofold. First, swales, retention basins and buffers require the use of land, a commodity that
developers are reluctant to give up. Second, immediately following a rainfall event, areas that are
normally dry will become temporarily full of rainwater, creating temporary mini -ponds or large
puddled areas that most 20th century Americans have been trained to think are unsightly and
therefore undesirable.
Currently, the County is approaching the problem on at least two fronts. First, the Stormwater
and Sewer Oversight Committee has been charged by the County Commissioners with
coordinating the development of various sewer utility systems in the County, including
stormwater management solutions. The thinking is that since sanitary sewers are likely to increase
the density of development, and since dense development can increase stormwater runoff, the
two should be studied together. Second, the County Planning Board is in the process of revising
and updating the County's subdivision regulations. In doing so, it is the intention of the Board to
incorporate some "near source" requirements for retaining stormwater runoff on or as near the site
of the development as possible.
While the County has from time to time, commissioned engineering studies related to stormwater
management, no comprehensive storm water management master plan has been -prepared for the
entire County. While master plans are often viewed as the solution to any given problem, some
have questioned whether, given the geography and hydrology of the County, such a county-
wide plan would be feasible, practical, or worthwhile.
Telephone interview with Jeff Phillips, County Engineer, Brunswick County, October 1, 1997.
6.2.4 TRANSPORTATION
(a) Public Roads
Brunswick County had 686 miles of paved public roads in 1995 (the most recent year for which
figures were available). For comparison, there were 620 miles of paved public roads in the
County in 1992 and 587 paved miles in 1987. In addition, there are a considerable number of
unpaved private subdivision roads that have yet to be upgraded and added to the state
secondary road system.
During the public input meetings held for the land use plan, many residents voiced concerns
regarding the condition of many of the roadways within the County. Specific concerns included
poor drainage, lack of paving, high water and flooding, and some dangerous curves.
Brunswick County has a Thoroughfare Plan which is updated periodically. Preparation of the plan
involves a cooperative effort of the Thoroughfare Planning Unit, Planning and Research Branch,
page 6-12

6. Constraints
' Division of Highways,NC Department of Transportation, and a County -wide Thoroughfare Plan
Coordinating Comittee, made up of representatives of numerous local governments and
t Chambers of Commerce in Brunswick County. The last Thoroughfare Plan was adopted by the
County and its municipalities in October and November of 1987, just prior to certification of the
1987 Land Use Plan Update. A new Thoroughfare Plan is currently in development. It is hoped
that the new Plan will be ready for adoption before the end of 1998.
In addition to the Thoroughfare Plan, Brunswick County also participates in the annual
preparation of a Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), a cooperative effort between the
' State DOT and local governments in the area. The TIP sets forth those transportation projects
which, based on a variety of criteria, are to receive priority for funding over the ensuing seven
year period. The following is a list of transportation projects as requested by the County and all
of its municipalities for inclusion in the most recent TIP. The general locations of these projects
' within the County are identified on the Community Facilities Map which accompanies this plan.
COUNTY -WIDE REQUESTS
' to
N.C. Department of Transportation
Division Three
November 13, 1997
' "It is the collective request of (Brunswick County), Municipalities and Commissions to expedite or
place on next year's North Carolina Transportation Improvement Program the following (county-
wide) projects:"
' 1. Second Bridge to Oak Island: (R-2245)
Expedite the planning and construction of a second bridge to Oak Island. This bridge
would alleviate significant traffic congestion and provide a much needed second
' evacuation route in the event of a major storm or industrial incident.
2. Wilmington Bypass (R-2633)
This project has been identified as a Key Economic Development Highway concern in
Governor Hunt's Transportation 2001 Plan. Continue to expedite this project to relieve
congestion concerns in and around Wilmington as well to meet the traffic resulting from the
population growth in the northern part of Brunswick County. The construction of this
' bypass should include all phases of the project from north of Wilmington to US 17 south
of Wilmington. Included in this request is that an additional interchange with the bypass be
included at Cedar Hill Rd. (SR 1430) to allow greater access to industrial sites in that area.
' 3. Midway Rd (SR 1500)/Galloway Rd (SR 1401) (Temporary)
Upgrade Midway Rd. and Galloway Rd from NC 211 to US 17 Bypass to accommodate
increased traffic from the new Oak Island bridge. This includes specifically redesigning the
Midway Rd./Galloway Rd. intersection on US 17 just west of Bolivia to alleviate probable
' congestion due to turns required.
4. Dosher Cut -Off (R-2334): (NC 211 to NC 87):
' Expedite planning and construction of a new route to alleviate congestion in and near the
existing Dosher Cut Off and traffic on NC 211, 133 & 87.
5. Georgetown Rd. Extension (SR 1163)
' Expedite the construction of the section from Ocean Isle Rd (4 mile Rd) to NC 179 near its
northern intersection with Hale Swamp Rd. This would significantly decrease summer
season traffic congestion in the South Brunswick Islands area and greatly facilitate travel
from Calabash to Shallotte.
' 6. Mt. Pisgah Rd. (SR 1130)
Upgrade from US 17 to Holden Beach Rd (NC 130) to provide an alternate route to
Holden Beach and relieve traffic on NC 130 during the summer tourist season.
1
page 6-13

6. Constraints '
7. Lanvale Rd (SR 1438)
,
Lanvale Rd. from US 17 to US 74-76 is carrying an increasing amount of traffic due to
population growth and industrial development in the Leland area. There are several
alignment problems on the road that need addressing.
'
8. Traffic Signals
Review the following intersections for traffic signals and/or upgrade:
• US 17 & County Club Dr.
•US17&SR1184
'
• NC 87 & Cougar Dr (Boiling Spring Lakes)
• NC 179 & County Club Dr.
• Georgetown Rd & NC 904
'
9. Four-laning of Village Rd.(SR 1472) from US 17 to Lanvale Rd.
To accommodate increased traffic in the Leland area.
10. Interchange at US 74-76 & Old Fayetteville Rd.
'
To allow better access to the Middle & High School.
11. General Upgrading of NC 133 from near Belville Town to near Brunswicktown
'
Widening and general improvements in several areas particularly including curves near
Old Town.
12. Establish alternate routing to South Brunswick Island Beaches from NC
'
Beach -bound traffic from Whiteville could use SR 1300 (Ash -Little River Rd.) or SR 1321
(Longwood Rd.) to the Calabash, Sunset Beach Ocean Isle Beach area and thus avoid
congestion in the Shallotte area. Signage on NC 130 in the Ash area could accomplish this
13. Widen and resurface NC 130 from the Waccamaw River to near Shallotte
This highway carries an increasing amount of traffic (particularly on the weekends) and
needs improvement.
'
14. Southern High -Rise Bridge/Connector Rd. to US 17 Near Sunny Point Railroad
The new bridge would significantly improve traffic flow to -from Brunswick County and
southern New Hanover County as well as enhance economic development opportunities
'
in the greater Leland area. The concept has been widely supported in the recently
completed Cape Fear River Corridor Study that was a joint effort of Brunswick and New
Hanover Counties and the City of Wilmington, and funded by the N.C. Division of
'
Coastal Management.
(c) Special Issue: A Second Bridge To Oak Island
'
One transportation project warrants special mention. As noted in the list of requests above,
planning continues regarding the need for a second bridge to Oak Island. The addition of this
bridge, along with the approach road leading to the bridge on the mainland side of the intracoastal
waterway, will no doubt have a significant impact on land use patterns within the vicinity of the
'
new roadway. In this regard, a special land use study and plan has been commissioned in an
effort to better manage the growth that may ensue. Since some portion of the approach road falls
within the planning jurisdiction of the County, the County is directly involved in evaluating and
approving the plan and its recommendations. As noted in Section 10: Intergovernmental
'
Coordination and Municipal Land Use Plans, the Second Bridge to Oak Island, Corridor Land
Use and Development Plan, shall be made a part of this land use plan and incorporated by
reference upon its adoption.
'
I
page 6-14 1

6. Constraints
J
(d) Air Transportation
There are two publicly owned general aviation airports in the county: the Brunswick County
Airport and the Ocean Isle Beach Airport. 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 accomplished over the years. Included has
been a terminal building (formerly a bank building) which was relocated to the airport property and
renovated. More recently, the airport has seen the addition of two large private hangers (1995)
and twenty-one airport -owned hangers, completed in the past few months (1997). The airport
has also installed two 12,000 gallon fuel tanks for jet and aviation fuel respectively. Taxiways to
and around hanger areas have been increased. The airport is outfitted with global positioning
system (GPS) navigational approach equipment.
Airport officials view certain additional improvements as being important to the on -going mission
and service of the facility:
• The extension of the current 4,000 foot runway to 6,000 feet.
• The addition of an Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS)
• An expansion of the terminal building to accommodate meetings of public officials during
emergency situations (Such meetings are already occurring at the terminal but without
proper space)
• The addition of an office building on the property as a revenue generator.
• Eventually, a new terminal building.
In addition, the November 13,1997 Transportation Improvement Program request from the County
and the Airport Commission to the NC Department of Transportation includes the following items:
• Extend the runway safety areas for runways 05 and 23.
• Construction and paving of return taxiways from the ramp area to runways 05 and 23.
• New perimeter fence.
• Construct a fire equipment building'with necessary paving.
The Ocean Isle Beach Airport, owned by that municipality, is located on the mainland across from
that island. An updated Master Plan for that facility was completed in 1987 and 88. The Ocean
Isle Beach Airport is a limited services airport in that it has no fuel availability and few other
services.
Regarding both airports, the County enacted an Airport Zoning Ordinance in the early 1980s,
which is enforced through the joint actions of each airport's management and the County's
Building Inspections Division.
There are several privately owned airstrips in different locations around the County, the largest
' being the "Winnabow International Airport." At last report, it had 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.
' Source of information for Brunswick County Airport: Telephone interview with Ken Scott, Assistant to the Airport
Manager, September 24, 1997.
page 6-15

6. Constraints
6.2.5 Law Enforcement
Law enforcement for Brunswick County is provided by the County's Sheriff's Department and
local municipal police forces. As the County has grown, demand for law enforcement services has
increased commensurately, as evidenced by a dramatic increase in the call load. A comparison of
the size of the Sheriff's Department five years ago (1992) and today (1997) is revealing. In 1992,
the Sheriffs Department had 49 personnel and 37 vehicles. In 1997, the Department has over 80
personnel in eight divisions, as follows: Drug Division, Uniformed Patrol Division, Detective
Division, Civil Division, Warrants Division, Crime Prevention Division, D.A.R.E., and Jail Division.
Personnel within the Sheriff's Department may be broken down as follows
6
Drug Officers
24
Uniformed Patrol Officers
5
School Resource Officers
4
Court Bailiffs
4
Civil Deputies
3
Warrant Officers
10
Detectives
1
Domestic Violence Officer
1
Crime Prevention Officer
13
Jailers
1
Jail Transportation Officer
1
D.A.R.E.Officer
In addition, the Sheriff's office staff, including the Sheriff, Division heads, and support staff,
includes 14 personnel. Finally the Sheriff's office has approximately 80 vehicles (compared to 37
five years ago.)
As the county's population continues to increase, it is anticipated that the resources of this
Sheriff's Department will also need to increase.
Source: Telephone interview with Lt. Charles Miller, Uniformed Patrol Division Head, September 24, 1997.
6.2.6 Fire and Rescue
For many years, the County has been the major source of funds for operation and; -maintenance of
the area's volunteer fire departments and rescue squads. At present, there are some 21 fire
departments and 11 rescue squads, both in the unincorporated areas and also in municipalities.
(a) Volunteer Fire Departments
The County's 21 volunteer fire departments are as follows:
Bald Head Island Volunteer Fire Department
Boiling Springs Lakes Volunteer Fire Department
Bolivia Volunteer Fire Department
Calabash Volunteer Fire Department
Civitown Volunteer Fire Department
Grissettown-Longwood Volunteer Fire Department
Leland Volunteer Fire Department
Long Beach Volunteer Fire Department
Navassa Volunteer Fire Department
Northwest Volunteer Fire Department
Ocean Isle Beach Volunteer Fire Department
Shallotte Volunteer Fire Department
Shallotte Point Volunteer Fire Department
Southport Volunteer Fire Department
page 6-16

6. Constraints
P�
7
Sunset Beach Volunteer Fire Department
Sunset HarborNine Hill Volunteer Fire Department
Supply Volunteer Fire Department
Tri-Beach Volunteer Fire Department
Yaupon Beach Volunteer Fire Department
Waccamaw Volunteer Fire Department
Winnabow Volunteer Fire Department
Over the years, funding levels to the county's volunteer fire departments have increased
steadily. The current County funding arrangement budget provides for $35,000 annually to each
fire department for operational costs, paid in quarterly installments. (This amount is up from
$10,000 in 1987-88 and $13,500 in 1992-93). In addition, each of the 21 fire departments is
allotted annually a $25,000 "contingency" fund, to be used primarily for equipment purchases.
(b) Volunteer Rescue Squads
The County's 11 volunteer rescue squads are as follows:
Bald Head Island Rescue Squad
Navassa Rescue Squad
Boiling Springs Lakes Rescue Squad
Shallotte Rescue Squad
Calabash Rescue Squad
Southport Rescue Squad
Coastline Rescue Squad
Town Creek Rescue Squad
Leland Rescue Squad
Waccamaw Rescue Squad
Long Beach Rescue Squad
Funding levels for the County's rescue squads has also increased steadily over the years,
particularly for those squads which consistently respond to emergency calls. During the most
recent year, for example, 6 of the County's 11 rescue squads received a $27,500 appropriation.
The remaining 5 rescue squads, those which did not respond as well to calls, received $17,500.
In both instances, the funding was up from previous years (i.e. $10,000 in 87-88 and $13,500 in
1992-93). Further, each of the 11 rescue squads in the county is eligible to receive up to $25,000
annually in contingency funds for the purchase of equipment.
The County continues to work with these various departments and squads toward continued
improvements in service. Ten years ago (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 and new equipment in place, however, all ofAhese service areas have been extended to
serve a 5.0 mile radius, and consolidation of some of these departments is a long-range goal.
(c) Coordination of Emergency Services and Hurricane Evacuation
The County employs a full time Emergency Management Coordinator as well as an Assistant
Emergency Management Coordinator. These individuals are responsible for coordinating rescue
services, service areas, and operations. In addition, hurricane evacuation is a primary planning
function of the Emergency Management Coordinator. Annual education programs and training
exercises are a routine function of the County's emergency response and evacuation program. In
1994-95, the County placed in service a state of the art emergency communications system.
During the 1990's, staffing levels for County emergency communications have increased from 2
persons in 1992 to 4 persons per shift in 1997, and a new computer system aids in finding the
location of incoming calls. The on -going objective is to create a coordinated, unified network, which
is related to and part of the communication/telephone system at the new County Emergency
Operations Center. The Operations Center also houses an emergency "war room" and a training
room for on -going education and personnel training.
page 6-17

6. Constraints
6.2.7 Schools
As with the 1992 land use plan, concern over the quality of the County school system was
identified in public input meetings for this update to the Plan. Given the rapid growth of the
county, it is not surprising the school system continues to address the need for additional
classroom facilities. During 1997-1998, the Brunswick County School System operated 13
schools plus the Brunswick Learning Center, up from 11 schools during 1990-91. The following
table summarizes the capacity and percent utilization of the County's existing schools.
Brunswick County Schools
Capacity and Utilization, 1997-98
..�
, rr �Mll...
r - .-IM
Center
�•
�.Learning
���:IZTTi��atait•ESi��c
:�/�
. �
c
• .
E.ya��alr:rll�
.:
• .
• .
Capacity calculations utilize State Board of Education recommendations
As noted in the table above, those schools most in need of relief from student crowding include
Bolivia Elementary School at 149% of capacity and South Brunswick Middle School at 161 % of
capacity. To help relieve some of the overcrowding in the system, two new schools and two
major classroom additions to existing schools are currently in development:
New Elementary School
This new 650 student elementary school will be located off Highway 211 and Zion Hill
Road. It is scheduled to open for the 1999 school year.
New Middle School
This new. middle school will also be located off Highway 211 and Zion Hill Road, most
likely on the opposite side of the roadway from the new elementary school.
Bolivia Elementary Classroom Addition
This will be a 10 classroom addition to this currently overcrowded school. Completion is
expected in time for the 1998 school year.
South Brunswick Middle School Classroom Addition
This will be an 11 classroom addition to this currently overcrowded school. Completion is
expected in time for the 1998 school year.
As the County continues to grow, funding for new school construction will continue to be a priority
concern.
Source: Telephone interview (and follow-up fax) with Clarence Willie, Assistant Superintendent for Operations,
September 22, 1997.
page 6-18

6. Constraints
6.2.8 Library System
Until the recent past, 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. In 1992 ,
however, the County established a library department within County government and the
County Commissioners appointed a newly structured Board of Trustees specifically to take over
several existing libraries. The following is a summary of the County's four branch libraries:
' Southport Branch
Shallotte Branch
Leland Branch
G.V. Barbee, Sr. Branch
u
Southport Renovated and reopened 1995
Shallotte Renovated and reopened 1995
Leland New building opened 1994
Yaupon Beach New building opened 1994
Library use county -wide has increased markedly in recent years; circulation is reported to have
roughly doubled in the past two years alone. The county system is currently in the process of
automating its card catalog and check out system: It is anticipated that all four branches will have
completed the conversion by early 1998.
Library staff levels have also increased somewhat from a total of 9 employees in 1992 to 14
employees in 1997.
Source: Telephone interview with Nancy Price, Southport Branch Manager, September 23, 1997
6.2.9 Parks, Recreation, and Waterfront Access
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 centers
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 at the back of this plan. Major amenities at each of the above -
mentioned county parks are as follows:
Table 6.2.9 BRUNSWICK COUNTY AREA PARKS —CURRENT AMENITIES, 1997
Supply
Shallotte
s-
Southport-
Mill Creek-
Leland
Waccamaw
Oak Island
Winnabow-
area
Town Crk
Lckwd Flly
Shallotte
Waccamaw
Smithville
Town Cr.
Northwest
Township
Township
Township
Township
Township
Township
Concession
Stand w/RR
Little League
Fields
Tennis Courts
Picnic Sheltets
Softball to
Basketball
Court
Multi -purpose
Field
ommunli
Building
Playground--
Area
page 6-19

6. Constraints
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.
Plans are being completed for the development of a twenty acre site off Long Beach Road. This
site has water access potential. First phase development calls for a walking nature trail, picnic
area, shelter, parking lot, restrooms and maintenance facility.Other short range plans include
expansion of most district parks. As of this writing, (September 1997) property for a new District
park is expected to be purchased within a few months.
Source: Telephone interview with Johnny Williams, Director of Recreation and Parks, September 21 and 22, 1997.
6.2.10 Solid Waste Management
In 1992, Brunswick County implemented a move to a privatized solid waste collection system.
Since that time, private haulers assumed responsibilities for waste collection and hauling
previously handled by the County.
Brunswick County has been working for several years toward additional changes in the way in
which trash collection and disposal will be handled in the future. As of December 31, 1997, the
County closed the county landfill off U.S. 17 near Shallotte. (On that date, Federal law required
that sanitary landfills have a protective lining to help prevent groundwater contamination.) At the
same time, the closed landfill site will fulfill a new role as a major transfer site for the off-loading of
smaller truck loads and reloading onto larger haulers for out of the county disposal.
This past year, the County, in cooperation with the County's municipalities, entered into a six
year contract with a private hauler to take the county's trash to one or more landfill sites outside
the county. In the meantime, the County shall also be exploring potential sites for a new landfill
within the County's borders. Also as of July 1, 1998 there are no more unmanned "greenboxes"
in Brunswick County, an improvement that many hope will alleviate some of the County's
roadside trash problem.
At the time of this writing, Brunswick County has no dumping fee, and also does not bill county
residents for hauling. As the County moves toward a new arrangement on hauling and dumping,
however, the County is also exploring some form of payment system to offset potentially higher
garbage collection and disposal costs.
Source: Telephone interview with Steffaney Batson, Solid Waste Coordinator, Brunswick County Operations
Services Department, September 22, 1997.
6.2.11 Public Administrative Capability
Brunswick County has a Board of County Commissioners, elected by districts, and a full time
County Manager. The County Manager is appointed by the Board of Commissioners and
administers the daily operations of the County as well as being responsible for implementing and
explaining the policies of the Board .
The County provides a wide range of services. Services over which the County has direct
control or works in very close cooperation with include: Animal Control, ASCS, Board of
Elections, Building Inspections, Buildings Maintenance, Cafeteria Services, Central Permitting,
Clerk of Superior Court, Computer Services, District Court Judge/Trial Court Administrator, District
Attorney, Economic Development Commission, Emergency Communication Services, Emergency
Management, Emergency Medical Services, Engineering, Finance, Geographic Information
Services, Health Department, Housekeeping, Juvenile Services, Landfill/Solid Waste, Library,
Magistrates Office, Mental Health Center, NC Adult Probation & Parole, NC Cooperative
Extension, NC Dept. of Crime Control and Public Safety, Older Adults/Department of Aging,
Operation Services, Parks and Recreation, Planning, Public Housing, register of Deeds, Service
Center, Sheriffs Department, Social Services, Soil and Water Conservation, Tax Administrator,
Tax Collector, Utilities, and Veteran Services.
page 6-20

7. Estimated Demand

7. Estimated Demand
7. 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 can, in theory, have a 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.
7.1 Permanent And Seasonal Populations
7.1.1 Projections of Permanent Population
As noted earlier under Section 5.1, 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. This rate of growth continues at a torrid pace, with the most recent population estimate for
the county pegged at nearly 63,000 in July of 1996. (see below)
The Office of State Planning 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
1991 and 1997.
Population Projections
TABLE 7.1.1 PROJECTED POPULATION, 2000, 2010, 2020
Year Estimate prepared in 1987 Estimate prepared in 1991 Estimate prepared in 1997
2000 75,471 66,171
2010 86,755 79,866
2020 97,500 92,623
Source: Office of State Planning
The chart on the following page shows these projections graphically.
69,653
84,454
97,920
page 7-1

1
7. Estimated Demand
1
' Population Projections
Brunswick County
I
I
100000
95000
90000
85000
80000
75000
70000.
65000
60000
55000
50000 -+
1990
— '♦— Estimate prepared in 1987 r°
---*—Estimate prepared in 1991 e.
sue' —A— Estimate prepared in 1997
2000 2010 2020
Previous discussions with representatives of the Office of State Planning have 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. State demographers have also expressed the opinion that the
' more recent projections may be larger than 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, 80's, and 90's.
' At the same time, local officials have commented that the 1990 Census may have resulted in an
undercounting of the permanent population. 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, this plan recommends that the most recent higher projections be
accepted and employed in the 1997 Land Use Plan Update, as a suitable compromise between
the State and the County.
page 7-2

7. Estimated Demand
7.1.2 Seasonal Population
As was the case for the 1987 and 1992 Land Use Plan Updates, peak seasonal population is
currently projected at two overnight visitors for each permanent resident, on the basis of
experience to date and.volume of tourist housing. Over time, however, as more retirees and
permanent residents move to the County, it is expected that the ratio will begin to moderate,
perhaps dropping to 1.5 visitors per permanent resident by the year 2010. Thus, a peak day
total population of just under 210,000 is expected in the year 2000 and, by 2020, that figure is
projected to grow to about 245,000.
Table 7.1.2
ESTIMATED PEAK DAY TOTAL POPULATION*
Brunswick County
Year 2000 Visitor/Permanent Ratio 2.0 (x3) Peak Day Population 208,959
Year 2010 Visitor/Permanent Ratio 1.75 �x2.5)
x2.75) Peak Day Population 232,249
Year 2020 Visitor/Permanent Ratio 1.5 Peak Day Population 244,800
'The above figures include peak day estimates for the incorporated beach communities of Brunswick County. The
Brunswick County Planning Department has estimated that peak to permanent population ratios run as high as seven
to one in some beach areas of the County.
7.1.3 Economic Projections /Prospects
The economic analysis included as part of Section 5.2 of this Plan documents the following
economic trends for Brunswick County.
• A continued decline in agriculturally -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 "mailbox" economy of the county's rapidly growing retirement
population; i.e., transfer payments.
In addition, there are 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 regional 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. In turn
the quality of development will influence the income levels of the permanent residents and
tourists coming to the area.
Thus, much of the future economic success of the County will depend upon the commitment of
area leaders to determine a deliberate course and invest in the facilities, services and growth
management tools necessary to achieve their vision.
page 7-3

J
F1
iJ
7. Estimated Demand
7.2 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 Developed and 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.)
Population projections by incorporated versus unincorporated areas.
The Developed Class as used in this plan is reserved exclusively to the incorporated towns of
the County, while the Transition areas are targeted for unincorporated areas. Thus, an
examination of population projections for incorporated versus unincorporated areas will give some
indication of the relative -demand for land in the unincorporated areas of the County. The
methodology for this determination follows.
Table 7.2 POPULATION PROJECTIONS
BY INCORPORATED VS. UNINCORPORATED AREAS
1980
1990
2000
2010
% 1980
%1990
%2000
%2010
Towns
8,615
15,644
24 379*
29 559*
24%
30%
35%
35%
Uninc.Area
27,109
35,341
45 280*
54 895*
76%
70%
65%
65%
Total
35,777
50,885
69,653
84,454
100%
100%
100%
100%
*Population projection applies to areas within 1990 municipal/unincorporated boundaries —does not account for
population shifts due to new incorporations or annexations.
Source: U.S. Census, Office of State Planning and Glenn Harbeck Associates.
The above table assumes that the percentage of the total county population within the County's
1990 municipal/unincorporated areas will increase by another 5% through the year 2000, and
then level off as new regional sewage systems come fully on line in unincorporated areas
between the year 2000 and 2010.
Beyond these general projections, it is not possible to predict, with any measure of reliability, the
amount of land area:that may.. -be necessaryto absorb+the growth that is foreseen in the
unincorporated areas of the County. In fact, County leaders hope that with the advent of new
regional sewage systems, an increased emphasis on a town and country growth pattern, and the
institution of growth management measures to encourage compact or cluster style development,
that the land use consumption patterns of the past two decades can be substantially reduced.
The Land Classification Map and Policies contained in this plan reflect this objective.
What can be said, however, is that by about the year 2015, it is likely that the County as a
whole will need to absorb nearly twice as many residential units as were on the ground in 1990.
Just how the County decides to absorb that growth, and whether the County can effectively
follow rough on the policies of this plan is the real question. For a more detailed explanation of
the growth management tools available to the County to implement this plan, please see Section
8.3.3, entitled Urban Growth Pattern Desired.
7.3 Community Facility And Service 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
6.2 of this Plan.
page 7-4

8. Policies For Growth and Development
1
8. Policies for Growth and
Development
' Introduction To The Policies
The data collection and analysis completed in Sections 4,5,6 and 7 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.
1 Policy Format
Each major category in the 1997 update to the Policies for Growth and
Development is addressed according to the following format:
Discussion
A brief summary of the issues, relevant
findings and, where applicable,
alternative policy responses.
Policy Statement Statement(sj of local government
prtncipal.designed :#o achieve. . .
legitimate public` objectives .related
. ,. to=the:issue:
In addition, Section 12.3 of this Plan, entitled the Action Agenda, includes a
' number of potential 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. 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
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.
1 page 8-1

8 Policies For Growth and Development
8.0 General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years
The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines suggest that the policy section
begin with an 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, the quality of its natural setting,
and its favorable climate. This growth is predominantly in the form of a growing
tourism economy, rapidly rising seasonal and permanent populations and
related residential and commercial development. At the same time, new
industrial development is encouraged to help diversify the economy and
provide higher paying jobs to area residents. The County wishes to
encourage and direct development in a manner which provides for economic
opportunity while being supportive of a fragile coastal environment. The
following policy statement emphasizes the need for diligence in working to
preserve and enhance these qualities. r
We,the,res[denirs, businesses, and property awnersof Brunswick, .
County shaMt se0 "Al preser�ue and enhance our nnatural and human
resources, and will plan fQr and accommodate,future„growth:whlle
sifnul#aeously �ialntaining and improving the quality of life for current
and<.futurQ res dents.:.:; . .
8.1 Resource Protection Policies
8.1.0 Basic Policy
Brunswick County derives much of its economic opportunity and quality of life
Statement
from the natural amenities of its coastal location. For the county to continue to
Regarding
be a desirable place to live, visit, and work, these natural amenities must be
Resource
protected, preserved, and whenever possible, improved upon. The land use
Protection
plan must therefore establish decision making policies and implementation
actions designed to achieve a balance between the industrial, commercial and
residential development of the county and the continued maintenance of the
natural systems that are the driving force in attracting new development.
8.1.1 Constraints To Development activities in Brunswick County are constrained by a variety of
Development natural and manmade limiting factors, as discussed in Sections 6.1 and 6.2 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 received at the public
input meetings held for the land use plan consistently focused on sewage
disposal and septic tank permits as a central issue facing the county.
Regarding sewage disposal generally, citizens attending the input meetings
stated that without additional centralized sewage treatment systems, further
economic growth in the county would be seriously constrained. At the same
time, many residents and property owners felt that it has become far too
difficult to gain approval for a septic tank permit. While the County has
responded by hiring more personnel in this area of the Health Department, the
fact remains that many parts of the County have soils which are low lying and
wet, or have a seasonal water table that is very close to the ground surface.
page 8-2

8. Policies For Growth and Development
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
Engineers Special Program
MAPS (FIRMs) and the U.S. Army Corps of to List
the Amplitude of Surge from Hurricanes (SPLASH —Also see Section 8.5).
In addition, a SLOSH (Sea, Lake, & Overland Surges) model was designed
by the National Hurricane Center in 1992 for the Myrtle Beach and Wilmington
area. The Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers was project
manager for the study, which was funded by FEMA, the US ACOE and the
State of North Carolina. The work resulted in the production of a Storm Surge
'
Atlas for the Myrtle Beach to Wilmington area.
The composite natural hazards map found in the back of this plan, identifies
flood prone areas in Brunswick County. Considering the total amount of
is
acreage. in: unincorporated. Brunswick County, there a relatively large
percentage of land area in the County that is free from the effects of flooding.
I?eve oprnentc s encouragedato ovate n areas w thout so i su tab lity
proi�lefns and ►here lnfrastruciureiis available..ln areas where
suitability probiems a is#,: engineering "solutions "are su ported to the
extentthatit he 'naturai environment is =not
icon promised
In the,,absence of, sewer facilities, the County shall work .cooperatively
wi#hIprgpperty owners to evaluate site suitability for'.septici tank use.
When oil conditioiras are such hat, in the opinion of`Co'b .
satiitartans, fieaith `oryenvironmentai standards would be compromised,
full explanation of;the reasons-for:denial-shall be given, and
al#erne#ivies: for rpossibte solutions .provided
i3runswrc punty,.supports # e a to n strat on and en orcernent of
appiicableflac?od plain management regulations and the national flood
insuran ce.program. _.
8.1.2 Areas of , :,The Coastal Area;Management Act (CAMA) of North Carolina ca.ils for the
Environmental `identification -of certain environmentally fragile and important land and water
Concern 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. Each AEC category is 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.
=Policy:8.1:2A
Brunswick Countyy wlll support=and :enforce; through its,local CAMA
permitting capacity, th ' ,State1olicies,,and ;permitted uses iin .the
Areas:of Environmental Concern (AFC's): Such .uses shall be in'accord
with the geineral use standards for:coastaIV,etlands; estuarine waters,'
pubilc-trust.areas and ocean�hazardareas as.statedir 15A NCAC
Subc6apter*7H
page 8-3

8. Policies For Growth and Development
Note: The first fourAEC's described below together make up the estuarine system AEC's:
Coastal Wetlands, Estuarine Waters, Estuarine Shorelines, and Public Trust Waters. They are
presented as a system because they are ecologically interrelated.
8.1.2(a) Coastal These are marshes, subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including
Wetland AEC's normal wind tides. In Brunswick County, these are predominantly salt water
marshes and brackish marshes along the county's rivers and the intracoastal
waterway. Other significant wetlands are found along the Cape Fear River.
These marshlands serve as a critical component in the coastal ecosystem. The
marsh is the basis for the high productivity of the estuary, which is the primary
input source for the food chain of the entire coastal environment. Estuarine
dependent species of fish and shellfish, such as menhaden, shrimp, flounder,
oysters, and crabs, contribute tremendous value to the economy of North
Carolina's commercial and recreational fisheries.
Marsh plants found in coastal wetlands include saltwater Cordgrass, Black
Needlerush, Glasswort, Salt Grass, Sea Lavender, Salt Meadow Grass, and
Salt Reed Grass. The roots and rhizomes and seeds of the,marsh grasses
serve as food for waterfowl, and the stems as wildlife nesting material. The
tidal marsh also serves as the first line of defense in retarding estuarine
shoreline erosion. The plant stems and leaves tend to dissipate wave action
while the vast network of roots resists soils erosion. Coastal wetlands operate
additionally as traps for sediments, nutrients and pollutants originating from
upland runoff. Siltation of the estuarine bottom is reduced, and pollutants and
excess nutrients absorbed by plants do not burden the coastal waters.
Protection of these sensitive habitats continues to be a high priority for local
officials. These marshes should be considered unsuitable for all development
and for those land uses which would alter their natural functions.
8.1.2(b) Estuarine An estuary is a semi -enclosed water body having free connection with the
Water AEC's open sea and within which sea water is measurably diluted with fresh water
drained from the adjacent land. The immense productivity of estuarine waters
results largely from unique circulation patterns, nutrient trapping mechanisms,
and the protective habitats they provide. Estuarine circulation, influenced by
tidal currents, fresh water influx, and shallow bottom depth, keeps the
estuarine waters well flushed, dispersing nutrients, juvenile stages, and
wastes. Common features in estuarine waters include mud flats, eel grass
beds, clam and oyster beds, and fish and shellfish nursery areas. 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. As noted in Section 6.1.1(f), all of the County's estuarine waters have
been classified as SA (high quality), but many are closed to shellfishing
because of unacceptable fecal coliform counts.
The high value of commercial and sports fisheries and the aesthetic appeal of
coastal North Carolina are dependent upon the conservation and protection of
its estuarine waters. Appropriate uses in and around estuarine waters are
those which preserve estuarine waters so as to safeguard and perpetuate
their biological, economic and aesthetic values.
page 8-4

1
' 8. Policies For Growth and Development
Acceptable uses should be water dependent uses such as navigable
channels, piers and docks, and mooring pilings, provided that they do not
directly or indirectly 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 cause degradation of
' shellfish waters.
I
8.1.2(c) Public Trust
Waters AEC's
Public trust waters are all ocean and inland waters from the mean high water
mark to the seaward limit of State jurisdiction. The State of North Carolina
supports the traditional public rights of access to and use of Public Trust
Waters for purposes including navigation, fishing, and recreation. These areas
support valuable commercial and sports fisheries, have aesthetic value, and
are important resources for economic development. Navigation channels, piers,
marinas, and bulkheads to control erosion are examples of uses which may be
found acceptable in Public Trust Waters.
Unless the 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
adequate 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, requiringa careful balance
between the rights of the public°.and the 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.
The;commun ty's,neeo.for piers and=docks;:whether publicly or .
privy#ely awnetl, shall=tie temperetl byhthe=rights of the 06blI64or the
free:an , open use of?publlc`tr'ust.waters, or navigation, shell fishing,
and:other uses. Efforts of State and Federal �agericies to limit the
length 'of tlocks artd Hers as #hey protect: into estuarine waters are
es eciall -su pottet'.
' 8.1.2(d) Estuarine Estuarine shorelines are non -ocean shorelines extending from the mean high
Shoreline AEC's water level along the county's estuarine sounds bays and 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.
Although characterized as dry land and thus potentially."developable",
estuarine shorelines are considered a component of the estuarine system
because of the close association with adjacent estuarine waters. These
page 8-5

8 Policies For Growth and Development
shorelines may be especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse
affects of wind and water and are intimately connected to the estuary.
Because development within the estuarine shoreline AEC can harm the
marshlands and estuarine waters, and because of the inherent dynamic and
hazardous nature of coastal shorelines, specific restrictions, limitations and
standards have been adopted by the State for construction in these areas, as
outlined in 15A NCAC 7H at .0209. By regulation, projects cannot weaken
natural barriers to erosion, shall have limited impervious surfaces, and shall
take measures to prevent pollution of the estuary by sedimentation and runoff.
A CAMA (Coastal Area Management Act) permit must also be obtained for
compliance with these standards.
8.1.2(e) Ocean These are natural hazard areas along the ocean shoreline which are especially
Hazard Area AEC's vulnerable to the effects of sand, wind, water and erosion. Ocean hazard
areas include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas in which
geologic, vegetative and soil conditions indicate a substantial possibility of
excessive erosion or flood damage, and where uncontrolled or incompatible
development could unreasonable endanger life or property. Improper
development can also disturb the natural barrier island dynamics and sediment
transport, and can interfere with the beach's natural defenses against erosion.
Furthermore, there is considerable evidence to suggest that sea level has
been and is expected to continue rising steadily. This will result in higher water
levels, inundation of wetland areas, and loss of beachfront area.
Within the Ocean Hazard Area AEC are four sub areas as follows: (1) The
ocean erodible area (2) The high hazard flood area (3) The inlet hazard area
and (4) The unvegetated beach area. Each may be described as follows:
• Ocean Erodible AEC. The ocean erodible area is the portion of the shoreline
w ei�here exists a substantial possibility of excessive erosion and
significant shoreline fluctuation. The ocean erodible AEC is based on a setback
from the first line of stable natural vegetation plus an additional area where
erosion can be expected from storm surges and wave action: This area
includes the ocean beaches and the frontal dune system.
Ocean erodible areas are extremely dynamic lands highly susceptible to
becoming displaced by the ocean due to erosion, storms, and sea level rise.
The sand deposits of ocean beaches and shorelines represent a dynamic
zone which does not afford long term protection for development. The nature of
tidal action and the force of storms is such that they cause the beach areas to
constantly shift. In addition, littoral drift is a natural phenomenon whereby sand
is removed from beaches by wave action and littoral currents and is deposited
upon a different stretch of the beach.
The major management objective is to avoid unnecessary hazards to life or
property and to maintain reasonable requirements for public expenditures to
protect property or maintain safe conditions. This area must be preserved to
the greatest extent feasible with opportunity to enjoy the ocean beaches of
the State. Appropriate development within the area must be that which will
withstand the prevalent natural forces, comply with CAMA and other state
requirements, and not unreasonably interfere with the public's use and
enjoyment of the beach area.
page 8-6

8. Policies For Growth and Development
'
• High Hazard Flood AEC. This is the area of the coast subject to high velocity
wave action an-ET—sform surge during severe storms. This area typically
'
extends along the shoreline and to some distance landward of the frontal dune.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) identifies flood zones for
a "100 storm on the flood insurance rate maps (F.I.R.M.'s), and
'
year"
designates the high hazard flood AEC as the V zone. The extent of flood
hazard areas in Brunswick County is shown on the Hazard Areas, 1997 map.
I
• Inlet Hazard AEC. Inlet Hazard areas of environmental concern are especially
vuunera�� o er iso on, flooding, and other shoreline changes due to their
proximity to extremely dynamic, migrating coastal inlets. The inlet hazard area
is defined to "extend landward from the mean low water line a distance
sufficient to encompass that area within which the inlet will, based on statistical
analysis, migrate, and shall consider such factors as previous inlet territory,
structurally weak areas near the inlet (such as an unusually narrow barrier
island, an. unusually long channel feeding the inlet, or an overwash area), and
extemal influences such as jetties and channelization."
The State's original inlet hazard areas were identified in the report to the CRC
entitled "Inlet Hazard Areas" by Loie J. Priddy and Rick Carraway (September
1978). The inlet hazard area "shall be an extension of the adjacent ocean
erodible area and in no case shall the width of the inlet hazard area be less
than the width of the adjacent ocean erodible area."
• Unve etated Beach AEC. These areas are fragile, unstable and
unpredictable sections of the ocean beach area. They are subject to rapid
changes from wind and wave action. They include the sand reaches often
found near inlets and undeveloped beach strands. As in other beach areas,
the public maintains a right to access to these beaches. While there are many
areas of "unvegetated beach" within Brunswick County, there is no section of
area beaches which meets the particular definition for an unvegetated beach
AEC as prescribed by the Coastal Resources Commission.
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 and part of Bird Island.
Brun swick;County supportsystate:an federal standards forthe
management °of development in the ocean `hazard AECs under. :the .
County's.planning jurisdiction he Baptist=assembly grounti[s and part'
of BirdIsland
8.1.2(f) Public Water This category consists of small surface water supply watersheds and public
Supply AEC's water supply well fields. While there are currently no such officially recognized
areas in Brunswick County, public input received during meetings held for the
1997 Land Use Plan indicated some support for designation of, for example,
the 211 water treatment plant well sites as a Public Water Supply AEC. In
addition, the recently completed Brunswick County Aquifer Sensitivity Map
and supporting narrative makes several recommendations for the proper
management of land uses in the county relative to their location over different
groundwater areas. (See Policy Section 8.1.5 for a discussion of the vital need
to protect the County's groundwater resources.)
=Policy 81.2 (f)
Brunswick County�supports-the, esignation'of Public,Water Supply
AEC's:when."such designation ;meets State prerequisites and when.,
such action is deemedt%ecessary to ensure the. lopg term vtability:'of
the:Count 's' ubli'c water sup'"ices.
page 8-7

8. Policies For Growth and Development
8,1.2(g) Natural and Within the system of Natural and Cultural Resource AEC's there are five
Cultural Resource distinct sub -categories:
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.
3. Unique Coastal Geological Formation& —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 areas which may be
deserving. (See section 8.1.4 below for examples of several such areas)
Brunswkk County supi)orts"the selective designation ;of appropriate:
areas;as natural and cu tural"resource AEC.'s (Coastal"Complex,Natural
Areas, Coastal Areas That Sustain Remnant Species, UnlgweGeologic
Forma#Ions; Significant Coastal �Arehaeolo rcat,Resources and
Significant;Coasfal Historical.Aichtectural"Resources .`= ;
8.1.2(h) Wildlife The protection of wildlife and natural resources was identified as an important
Protection issue at public meetings held for both the 1992 and 1997 land use plans.
Brunswick County has one of the richest, most biologically diverse ecological
systems in North Carolina. The county has numerous wildlife refuges, natural
areas, reserves, and sanctuaries for the propagation and management of the
region's abundant wildlife. (See especially Section 8.1.4 below).
Measures to protect wildlife and natural resource areas fall largely into one of
two categories. First, existing state and federal management. policies for
specifically designated preserves, sanctuaries and other natural resource
areas are instrumental in conserving habitat for wildlife. Second, this plan's
emphasis on policies and actions which encourage a distinct "town and
country" development pattern can be effective in conserving valuable open
space for wildlife propagation by discouraging suburban sprawl.
The"abundance and diversity of�wildiffe in Brunswick' County shall be
preserve d,and enhanced through protection"of the unique coastal
ecosystems,..including marshes,:woodlands, open fields and other
areas upon" the depend."
8.1.3 Wetlands of At the time of this writing, the State was in the process of developing and
Highest Functional refining the mapped information regarding Wetlands of Highest Functional
Significance Significance for Brunswick County. When this information is completed, the
County will take appropriate action to address this policy area in accordance
with CAMA guidelines.
None at.this Mime: Awa tin `ma ed information and ex lanato ext
page 8-8

' 8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.1.4 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 most
Fragile Land Areas biologicallyy diverse areas in the State of North Carolina. The article quotes
Introduction Alan Weakley of the North Carolina Heritage Program as saying "Brunswick
County has, by far,'more records of rare plants, 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:
' Orton Pond Millpond and surrounding uplands provide breeding habitat for anhinga,
osprey, fox squirrels, alligators, red -cockaded woodpeckers 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 rough -leaf
' Complex loosestrife. National significance.
Military Ocean The 12,000-acre military base contains a large number of limesink ponds,
Terminal Sunny longleaf pine forests and pocosins which provide habit for many rare and
' Point 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 Island Diversity of high -quality maritime communities, including the largest remaining
' maritime forest in the county. The island also hosts the state's only locations
of cabbage palm (Saba) 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 largest
Fear River Marshes populations of alligators of any North Carolina river or estuary. Statewide
significance.
Sunset Beach, In late summer, these ponds are visited by post -breeding wood storks from
Wood Stork Ponds Florida and Georgia. The ponds are the northernmost localities on the Atlantic
coast used by wood storks. Statewide significance.
page 8-9

1
Ll
1
11
I]
8 Policies For Growth and Development
Bryant Mill Located along the southern shore of the Cape Fear River, this bluff contains a
(Greenbank) Bluff variety of wet and dry habitats sheltering several unusual plant species,
including large -leafed grass -of -Parnassus. National significance.
Zeke's Island Complex of islands, marshes, tidal flats and shallow estuarine water on the
Estuarine Sanctuary northern end of Bald Head Island. An important nesting site for 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.
Also see Section 8.1.10 for a discussion of Bird Island).
8.1.4 (a) Freshwater According to National Wetlands Inventory mapping, Brunswick County
Swamps, Marshes, contains literally thousands of acres of fresh water swamps and marshes,
Pocosins, and 404 including pocosins and 404 wetlands. While many of these areas have been
Wetlands specifically identified as described in the introduction above, there are many
thousands more throughout the length and breadth of the county.
This land use plan, through the land classification map and associated policies,
seeks to direct urban level development to specific geographic areas of the
county where adequate services are currently provided or can be provided
cost effectively. Even within the designated growth (Transition) areas, the
county recognizes that there may be extensive areas of fresh water wetlands
that cannot be developed without considerable economic and environmental
costs. Therefore, the intent of the County's growth policies as contained in this
plan is to direct development first, to general geographic areas and secondly,
to specific "dryer sections" within the borders of these areas. The specific
mechanism by which this policy is implemented on individual sites is through
the requirements and standards of the NC CAMA permitting program and the
US Army Corps of Engineers "404" permitting program.
Brunsw ck Coun will continue to.suppgp the' efforts .of the CAMA
program artd,ttte„ ,,S. Army Corps of agineers'404 permitting program
to=preserve and protect ensitive:fresh water swamp.1 marsh areas.)
8.1.4(b) Maritime According to a report published by the North Carolina Division of Coastal
Forests Management in November of 1988 An Assessment Of Maritime Forest
Resources On The North Carolina Coast, MichaelLopazanski e a
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 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.
page 8-10

8. Policies For Growth and Development
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. Because these
unique areas are in such short supply, Brunswick County is all the more
interested in preserving these few remaining areas for future generations.
ard�me oreats n Brunswick' ousty shall receive a. ugh Level of
environmentalprotection when considering public and private sector
uses: When development is consideretli referred usage,shall be for
low intensit for clusteredeirelopizent corms, `which preserve the
ma orit oforestcover See also Polic 8 318;Tree cover and
8.1.4.c) Outstanding There are currently no Outstanding Resource Waters identified within the
Resource Waters planning jurisdiction of Brunswick County. Lockwood Folly River was at one
(ORW) time up for consideration as an ORW, but was removed 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. Mapping provided by the State Division of Coastal
Management confirms this assessment, in that nearly all of the upper and
middle reaches of the Lockwood Folly River are shown as being closed to
shellfishing. Since the 1980's, the State has continued to monitor fecal coliform
levels in the river on a routine basis. 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.
Included among the possible options available to improve water quality is a
realignment of the river's ocean inlet to a location more directly in line with the
main channel of the river. Some observers feel that such a realignment would
facilitate the free movement of ocean water into and out of the upper reaches of
the river, thereby flushing the stream of undesirable fecal coliform and other
pollutants.
Brunswlck County -supports _State. and local efforts to restore the
water.:qualitygf.tnelockwood Folly,River, as well as other estuarine
ters in the,:county, #opa wa#er,quality;level deserving of ORW
desi nation:
8.1.4(d) Shellfishing As noted in section 6.1.1(f) of this report, many of Brunswick County's
Waters principal shellfishing waters have been closed to shellfishing due to high levels
of fecal coliform. These waters include much of the Shallotte River, the
Lockwood Folly River, and the Intracoastal Waterway. The key to solving the
problem appears to be reducing stormwater runoff from all sources in each
watershed, including runoff from golf courses and lawn areas, highways,
streets, driveways, and parking lots, agricultural lands, livestock operations,
and other sources of nutrients and toxins. At the same time, the County must
also consider the possibility of sewage related point sources of pollution,
including malfunctioning septic tanks, and the occasional breakdown of
municipal sewage treatment plants and package treatment plants.
Brunswick County has acknowledged the enormous and wide-ranging
challenge it faces, and is addressing the problem on several fronts. One is the
Sanitary Sewer and Stormwater Management Committee, appointed by the
County Commissioners. Their charge is to look into pre-emptive means of
warding off the adverse impacts typically associated with developed
spawned by the advent of additional centralized sewage treatment facilities. A
page 8-11

8.1.4(e) Water
Supply Areas/
Other Waters With
Special Values.
8. Policies For Growth and Development
second approach is to reexamine the County's development standards, most
particularly the County's subdivision regulations. These standards, which
determine how new residential subdivisions are to be laid out and developed,
can be quite influential in determining drainage requirements, and thus
stormwater runoff levels. (See Section 12 Implementation Actions for more on
these planned courses of action.)
Please see discussion under Section 8.1.5 for a discussion of the vital need to
protect the County's groundwater resources.
IT
hekcotunty s groun waterz,resources, nclu mg. ut not t m ted tort e
Cast[Q Rayne aquifer, siall be recognized as'an invaluable; source of
publ artdlprivato potable water and -shill receive -the highest-tevel of
pprotectlon°when considering Coun#y.-po11 1 s, stand airds and actions,
includm the ossible=creation of.a` s dial ;overla district.
8.1.4(f) Cultural and The State Division of Archives and History has stated that there are no fewer
Historic Resources than 172 prehistoric sites and 25 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.
Brunswick County encourages efforts to',protect cultural and historic'
resources.to preserve -their cultural educational and aesthetic;values
`and � ualities..
8.1.4(g) Manmade As discussed more fully under section 6.1.1, Brunswick County contains
Hazards several sizable manmade hazards including: Carolina 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 in place to achieve this
coordination.
page 8-12 1

' 8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.1.4(h) Hazardous The presence of potentially hazardous facilities also implies the possibility of
Materials and hazardous materials moving through the county. The Carolina Power and Light
Events Nuclear Facility, for example, must rely upon the safe movement of nuclear
fuels and related materials to and from the facility. Munitions related to the
Sunny Point Ocean Military Terminal may arrive by train and depart by ship.
Other ships heading up the Cape Fear River to the State Ports at Wilmington
frequently carry cargo which may or may not be officially hazardous. Even so,
any man-made or processed materials if spilled into the Cape Fear estuarine
system could have varying degrees of impact on the ecosystem.
At the same time, public and private officials involved in emergency
management must be prepared for the possibility that a hazardous event
could occur related to any of the above noted facilities. The County therefore
supports the on -going efforts of each of these facilities to properly plan for
such circumstances.
Plans forsthe afe xransporta; ono hazardous materials;.for._.the
prevrrntion and cicany up„ of spillso toxic materials, and far=.the
evacuation ,of area residents Ir response to hazardous eevents, shall be
sup
pooted..
Hurricane and Flood Section 8.5 of this plan deals exclusively with the subject of storm hazard
Evacuation mitigation, post disaster recovery and evacuation. The reader is referred to
that section, which includes several policy statements on hurricane and flood
evacuation.
8.1.5 Protection of As noted in section 6.2 of this report, Brunswick County was, for several
Potable Water years, moving rapidly away from well water as its primary source of potable
Supply water. After much careful study, however, the County has elected to pursue
strategy which involves a balancing of surface and groundwater supplies.
Like other counties at thelower end of the Cape Fear River, Brunswick
'
County is aware of the vulnerable position in which it finds itself when relying
upon a surface water supply source whose quality is dependent upon the
duty and care of upstream water users. By the time the Cape Fear reaches
southeastern North Carolina, the river has received urban and agricultural area
runoff, various pollutants, and effluent discharges from an area which
encompasses a large part of the heavily urbanized piedmont region of the
state. At the same time, there is a continuing concern that interbasin transfers
could occur upstream, 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.
Nonetheless, the County's piped water system relies primarily upon surface
'
water from the Cape Fear River for its raw water. The raw water intake for the
Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority, from which the County buys its
water, is actually in Bladen County, just upstream of the Lock and Dam
Number 1 on the Cape Fear. (Lock and Dam Number 1 effectively defines the
'
upstream limit of the area of salt water influence.)
page 8-13

8 Policies For Growth and Development
Until recently, the County had been considering phasing out the old 211 Water
Treatment Plant, which was the original treatment plant for the County system,
and which draws from a series of ground water wells west of Southport. With
precautionary concern about the reliability of surface water in the Cape Fear
River, however, the County has now elected to keep the plant operational,
primarily as a secondary source of water for the system.
At the same time, the County has also begun exploring the possibility of a
third source of water, perhaps from the Pee Dee aquifer or from the Waccamaw
River at the South Carolina end of the County. (For more information, see
section 6.2)
Regardless of the source or sources of water, protection of the County's raw
water supply 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 state, federal, and local efforts to carefully
monitor and control development activities so as not to irreparably damage the
very future of the County.
In keeping with this high level of concern, the County recently commissioned a
special Brunswick County Aquifer Sensitivity Study to examine the occurrence
of groundwater aqui'ters in clitterent parts of the county for their susceptibility to
damage from various types of land use activities. A copy of the resulting
Aquifer -Sensitivity Map is included in the back of this plan. The map identifies
the approximate boundaries of the Surficial, Castle Hayne and Pee Dee
aquifers noting, in particular, the Castle Hayne Sinkhole area, and other
aspects of groundwater hydrology and resources in Brunswick County.
The study also includes findings and recommendations for dealing with different
types of potential groundwater contaminants, several of which are summarized
below. Many of the recommendations contain a large number of qualifications,
so the reader is directed to the full report for a complete understanding of the
issues involved. Similarly, to better understand the specific terminology
employed in the recommendations, the reader is referred to the "Explanation of
Map Units, contained on the Aquifer Sensitivity Map.
Excerpts of Key Findings and Recommendations (Edited)
Brunswick County Aquifer Sensitivity Study, 1997
RaTp Heath, Consulting Hyarogeologist
1. On -site disposal of domestic wastes through septic tanks and drain
fields
These disposal methods adversely affect the quality of water in the Surficial Aquifer and in
the Castle Hayne and Pee Dee Aquifers where they are not separated from the Surficial
Aquifer by a confining layer. The areas in Brunswick County in which on -site disposal of
domestic wastes are likely to be of greatest concern include the wet flat uplands, tile
Castle Hayne Aquifer sinkhole area, and the barrier islands. Where shallow wells are used,
20,000 square foot lots are generally recommended.
2. Land spreading of municipal and Industrial wastes
This activity will also adversely affect the quality of water in the Surficial Aquifer, and in
the deeper aquifers where the overlying confining layer is absent. To avoid adversely
affecting more of the groundwater system than is necessary, these waste sites should
generally be located as close as possible to ground -water discharge areas. With the
possible exception of the extensive wet flat uplands in the northern part of the Brunswick
County, it would probably be desirable that wet flat uplands and the Castle Hayne Aquifer
sinkhole areas be avoided for these waste -disposal sites.
page 8-14

8. Policies For Growth and Development
3. Lagoon and land -spreading sites for animal wastes
Such animal waste disposal activities have been found to adversely affect both ground-
'
water and surface -water quality. Because of the relatively recent rapid increase in
intensive swine operations, the ultimate adverse effect of this industry on both
groundwater and surface -water quality is not yet recognized. Now, while the number of
operations is still relatively small and the two-year moratorium on new operations is in
'
effect, is probably a good time to consider policies and regulations applicable to intensive
livestock operations. Intensive livestock operations may not be desirable in the wet flat
uplands because of the shallow depth to the water table and should be prohibited, if at all
possible, in the Castle Hayne Aquifer sinkhole area.
'
4. Sanitary landfills and other solid -waste disposal sites
Regardless of the care with which liners are installed and the effort devoted to maintaining
the impervious caps, it must be anticipated that every solid waste site will ultimately be a
source of ground -water contamination. Solid -waste disposal sites should not be located in
'
the wet flat uplands, the Castle Hayne Aquifer sinkhole area or on the barrier islands. This
leaves only the dry flat and sloping uplands. Recognizing the long-term possibility of
ground -water contamination, and the advantage of locating sites where the largest depths
to the water table occur, primary consideration should be given to sites adjacent to
'
perennial streams.
5. Rock quarries
While there is no rock quarry presently in the county, Martin -Marietta Materials, Inc. has
'
proposed to develop a quarry in the Castle Hayne Limestone in the area along the west
side of the Cape Fear River between Walnut Creek and the Sunny Point Military Ocean
Terminal. The site is in the Castle Hayne Aquifer sinkhole area and mining of the limestone
would require drawdown of the water level in the Castle Hayne a distance of about 70 feet.
'
Objections to the quarry have included: (1) accelerated sinkhole formation resulting from
the quarry dewatering, (2) saltwater encroachment into the Castle Hayne Aquifer from
both the Cape Fear River and Walnut Creek, and (3) destruction of wetlands. All of these
'
are valid concerns.
6. Ground water is an Important source of supply in Brunswick County.
A County -owned wellfield consisting of 15 supply wells capable of producing 6 to 7 million
gallons per day is located along State Highway 211 about 5 miles northwest of Southport.
'
Water from this wellfield is used in the county water system to supplement surface water
obtained from the Cape Fear River at Lock No. 1. Several of the smaller towns that are not
yet connected to the County system have their own supply wells. In addition, many rural
'
residents and some residential subdivisions obtain water from individual wells. Ground
water is a very important resource that should receive the maximum possible protection.
While the County's options for protecting its raw water supplies are somewhat
limited, and the costs uncertain, the importance of this issue warrants a high
'
level of attention from County officials. The preceding excerpts from the Aquifer
Sensitivity Study identify several possible local actions for protecting the
groundwater resources of the area. The County Commissioners, at their
t
regular meeting on November 17, 1997 took action to incorporate by reference
the findings and recommendations of the Study into this Land Use Plan.
' W PoiicyT81:5(b
Brunswilc : County`=supports_a eral , state and locale orts to protect
the.quanti and quality otwater.imthe Cape Fear River, whether such
protection�nvolves controls:over:point:source discharges, surface
runoff, inter basin;water,transfers,,%ov.other appropriate means,
Inc iuding upstreafn.:activifies:
page 8-15

8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.1.6 Package As noted in Section 6.2 of this plan, Brunswick County has assumed a leading
Sewage Treatment partnership role in the development of additional centralized sewage treatment
Plants facilities at various locations in Brunswick County. Once these various new
systems are up and running, it is hoped that most new development will be
tied to the publicly operated sewage treatment system closest to them. Not
only would this relieve the technical problems associated with septic tanks,
but it would also (1) provide the opportunity to better control the location of
new development and (2) encourage new development to occur in compact
clusters, rather than in the more typical sprawling, large lot pattern fostered by
dependence on septic tanks.
All that said, the likelihood of achieving such centralized sewage service for
many new developments is doubtful in the near term. Brunswick County is
simply too spread out, and the technical, financial and political requirements
necessary to build such systems can often be daunting.
Therefore, 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. In
this regard, package sewage treatment plants have the following factors
working in their favor:
1. Newer developments are occurring increasingly on marginally
suitable soils.
2. In recent years, regulations concerning the siting;,and operation of
conventional septic tanks have been tightened•"
3. The need for a greater variety of housing types in the county —
including multi -family cluster development and other forms of
innovative residential development— calls for sewage disposal
other than by septic tanks.
Even so, all is not favorable when it comes to the merits of package treatment
plants. In recent years, increasing concerns have been voiced about the
reliability of package sewage treatment plants, and the ability of authorities to
adequately monitor their operation. Also, it has been reported that even the
developers who install such systems would much prefer the option of tying
into a centralized public system rather than dealing with the up front costs, as
well as the operation and maintenance of a package treatment plant.
On balance, Brunswick County has elected to adopt a policy in support of the
use of package treatment plants, but only in the absence of centralized public
sewers. Further, when such package plants are designed, they should be
constructed so as to allow for later abandonment and connection of the system
to a centralized system.
page 8-16

8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.1.7 Stormwater North Carolina hydrogeologist Ralph C. Heath, when speaking about the
Runoff coastal area, stated over ten years ago that the... "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).
'
More recently published findings -by State and Federal researchers have
confirmed Heath's concerns, pointing increasingly to non -point source pollution
as the principal cause of the degradation of water quality nation-wide. The
construction of large, impervious surfaces associated with major commercial
'
and residential development, accelerates the rate at which rain waters reach
nearby receiving waters. In coastal areas, this rapid influx 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. Many of these factors have
been witnessed in the continued rapid growth and development of Brunswick
County, and associated declines in area water quality. The widespread
'
closing of the county's estuarine waters for shellfishing is but one symptom of
a much larger, multi -faceted problem.
In light of the importance of this problem, the County has undertaken several
steps to begin to slow the amount of stormwater reaching estuarine waters.
Because the situation stems from an accumulation of problems, it will require an
'
accumulation of actions to correct the problem. Nonetheless, action must start
somewhere. Among all the possible actions which could be taken, one that is
often cited as being effective -is to employ vegetated buffers immediately
adjacent to receiving waters. Just as an artificial "silt fence" at construction
sites works to prevent soil and sediment from leaving the site, permanently
'
vegetated buffers act to filter stormwater runoff headed for adjacent streams.
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e policies For Growth and Development
Brunsw ck County shallsuppart a program of:vegetated buffers
adjacent to all streams, rivers; marshes=and estuarine waters in the'"
county, with #he'ittent of reducing _the flow of nutrients"and other
In
area=surface waters .
BrunswicWCounty shall advocate a policy of"stormwater runoff"
management in which post -development runoff has a rate of flow and
volume which approximates, as closely as practical; pre -development
conditions.`
8.1.8(a) Marinas 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 within the public trust
waters of Brunswick County. At the same time, the County believes that it is
in the best position to evaluate proposed new marinas or marina expansions
from a land side perspective. For example, marinas associated with shorefront
developments may increase demand for landside parking spaces and cause
increased traffic on roads and streets leading to the water's edge. For these
reasons, the County will seek to monitor the further development of marinas so
that their size and location are reasonably related to the near -shore lands they
impact.
As a.meansof prow ding public access #o:"area surface waters,
Brunswick County encourages.environmentaily. responsiblle marina
development=in accordance with:State"CAMA.standards,for AEC's.
Marina:facllities:also shall be,evaivatid for"site specific compatibility'
withsurroundin land:uses; as.weli,,as for;aesthetic concerns, parking,
access, and available: services.
8.1.8(b) Floating According to CAMA guidelines, a floating structure is..."any structure not a
Home Development boat, supported by a means of floatation designed to be used without a
permanent foundation, which is used or intended for human 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.
Brunswick County discourages "floating home ,development anywhere
in the waterways, publio trust waters, and along the shorelines of the
county; so as to prevent,the ua nwnted "consumption" of the,county's
limited estuarine surface waters:"
8.1.8(c) Moorings According to CAMA Use Standards, a "free standing mooring" is any means to
and Mooring Fields attach a ship, boat, vessel, floating structure or other watercraft to a stationary
underwater device, mooring buoy, buoyed anchor, or piling (as long as the
piling is not associated with an existing or proposed pier, dock, or boathouse).
According to CAMA Standards, free standing moorings shall be permitted under
two circumstances:
(1) to riparian property owners within their riparian corridors or
page 8-18

8. Policies For Growth and Development
' 8.1.8(d) Dry Stack
Storage
1
(2) to any applicant proposing to locate a mooring buoy consistent with a
water use plan that may be incorporated into either the local zoning or
land use plan.
Until such time as the County and the various beach communities undertake
the development of a water use plan, and the issue can be addressed in a
comprehensive manner, the granting of additional free standing moorings shall
be deferred to CAMA standards as promulgated by the State.
Dry stack storage facilities can require substantial amounts of associated
parking, are significant traffic generators, and may contribute to boating
congestion within the vicinity -of the dry stack manna. On the positive side,
however, dry stack marinas can accommodate the boat storage needs of a
large number of boat owners, without "consuming" valuable public trust
waters. For this reason, the County views dry stack marinas, on balance, as
the preferable alternative to traditional wetslip marinas —with the important
proviso that any such facility shall be compatible with its neighboring land
uses.
To tn, n •mize,`consump#ion" of valuable=public trust surtace waters, dry
stack storagernarinas generail shall be preferred over wetstip
marinas. prysiack storage #aclitiesshall:be evaluated for;site
specific compatibility wi#h surrounding:lar>d uses, as:wel(as for
aesthetto'concerns;r air ,access;-and'availabte services: ,
8.1.8(e) Commercial The fishing industry of Brunswick County consists of two distinct
Fishing Operations components —commercial fishing and sports fishing. Statistics nationally and
regionally reveal a sportfishing industry that continues to grow in numbers of
participants and dollars spent, regardless of the actual catches experienced. Al
the same time, commercial fisheries landing statistics for the past ten years
reveal a commercial fishing industry which is holding its own, despite many
growth and development_ factors which would seemingly have an adverse
impact on the industry. (See Section 5.1.2). Regardless of which component
of the industry being evaluated, area residents believe strongly that a healthy,
vital fisheries resource is critical to both the economy and cultural heritage of
Brunswick County
l7ue to the mportant ro a of commerc al andi' recrea onal f shing o the
economy anti culturalerttageof Brunswick County, the County: shall "
encourage°arid support;commercia[q#ishing,operationsand sports.`
fishing`operations, prow dedahat such operations meet all applicable
development standards and are otherwise consistent with the
olicies ,of Vegflodbr
governments.....
8.1.9 Industrial The topic of industrial impacts on fragile areas brings to the forefront two major
Impacts on Fragile growth issues in Brunswick County. First, extensive areas of land and water
Areas in the county are environmentally fragile; therefore, compared to many other
counties farther inland, large areas of the county are readily susceptible to
environmental degradation. Second, the area's existing industrial base
contributes strongly to the county's tax revenues, and provides diversified
jobs to area workers. (The need to encourage jobs in the area that are not
tourist related was a concern voiced by area residents during public meetings.)
page 8-19

8 Policies For Growth and Development
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, identifies 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 extensive areas of the county that are
clearly not suitable for industrial development. These areas include, for
example, the Green Swamp, certain large Carolina bays, and areas generally
designated as "404" wetlands.
Thus, the county will consider all industrial location decisions on a case by
case basis, properly balancing environmental concerns with the need for new
industry and the continued diversification of the county's economic base.
8.1.10
There are many small estuarine system islands in Brunswick County which
Development of
are privately owned. Among these, the most well known include Bird Island,
Sound and
which falls primarily (95%) within the extra -territorial planning jurisdiction of the
Estuarine System
Town of Sunset Beach, and Sheep Island, near the Town of Long Beach.
Islands
Discussions regarding the fate of the 85 acre Bird Island have been on -going
for several years. 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. At the same time. a grass roots initiative has emerged to
support acquisition of the island as a permanent, public trust area.
Concerning Sheep Island, the Town of Long Beach in 190Zmade 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.
These islands (and other smaller, ones similar to them) have extremely fragile
environmental conditions; therefore, the County would prefer that they not be
developed. At the same time, so long as these islands are under private
ownership, the county believes that they should be allowed the same private
property rights enjoyed by other property owners. If these islands must be
developed, the County would strongly encourage the property owner to
develop such islands in an environmentally sensitive manner.
Also, given the difficulty in providing services to these islands, it is
recommended that any such development be of a character and density that
requires few if any services. Further that the occupants of dwellings on these
islands, if any, recognize the inherent risks of locating on such islands and
assume the risks of not being protected by customary public safety services
such as police, fire, and rescue.
page 8-20

8. Policies For Growth and Development
1
8.1.11 There has been considerable discussion and debate over the past decade
' Development Near about the influence of sea level rise on beach and shoreline erosion along
Sea Level North Carolina's coast. In the case of Brunswick County, nearly all areas
subject to this debate fall within the planning jurisdictions of the incorporated
beach municipalities along the county's ocean coast.
11
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. Regarding soundfront shorelines, the County's flood plain regulations
typically require that development in floodprone areas be elevated above the
100 year flood plain and that they adhere to the estuarine AEC shoreline
requirements of the State. In addition, ocean hazard AEC standards govern
how close development may be placed to an oceanfront shoreline. Generally,
the County supports a policy of prudent initial development with full
recognition of the risks and consequences of building on ocean shorelines; that
failing, structures should be required to retreat when threatened —rather than
hardening the ocean shoreline.
Policy8:1.71'
8.1.12 Upland As the immediate coastal area of North Carolina, has become more intensively
Excavation for developed for shoreline uses, natural sites for deep water marinas have
Marina Basins become increasingly scarce. This is especially true in Brunswick County,
where the barrier island system hugs the mainland, effectively limiting the
amount of open water in the relatively narrow sound area. 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 at best.
Nonetheless, as the coastal population of Brunswick County grows, demand
for marina facilities grows commensurately.
Due to the inherent value of existing public trust surface waters, as well as
their biological value to the estuarine system, State CAMA standards have
generally favored upland sites over open water sites for new marinas. As
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.
page 8-21

8. Policies For Growth and Development
,�,<.� Policy=8172
8.1.13 Marsh Generally, Brunswick County supports the standards for bulkheads and rip
Damage from rap as identified in T15A:07H.1100 regarding the general permit for the
Bulkhead construction of such structures in estuarine and public trust waters. To meet
Installation 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.
While Brunswick County supports these standards, it also recognizes 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 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.
Brunswick County supports state and:federal standards which seek.t.o
pprevent or minimize marsh damage from bulkhead or rip rap installation.
The County recognizes; however, that some limited "marsh damage
r a
rttay beErtec scary tp provide'tor otherwise environmentally sound
tlevei`o ..,merit. ,..... ..
8.1.14 Water Each of the various Resource Protection Policies stated above, including but
Quality Problems not limited to policies concerning Areas of Environmental Concern, marina
and Management development, and stormwater runoff, are designed to curtail or halt the further
Measures degradation of water quality within Brunswick County. As noted under several
of these sections, the County is working proactively toward the development
of new management practices and measures to implement improvements in
water quality.
Brunsw ck, -ounty shalt" encourage and support State:and Federal
standards whichseek to prevent or minimize:adverse water quality
impacts the"ACo`un#y"shall work proactive(y with:the %ate on
measures #o reduce stormwater runoff rates,"soil"erosion and
sedimentation, and?poirit source discharges into area waters:(See also
es ecall z`"i?olic Section 8.y7
8.1.15 Air Quality With the enactment of federal air quality legislation beginning in the early 70's
and continuing through the present day, much progress has been made in the
reduction of air pollution levels from both industrial operations as well as
vehicular emissions. This legislation has been effective in improving air quality
from a variety of measurable air contaminants.
Air pollution related to odor, however, does not always have a direct correlation
with air emission standards related to the public health. For this reason, odors
can occasionally "slip through the cracks" of state and federal air quality
controls. Such has been the case in Brunswick County on several occasions
during the recent past. Residents attending public input meetings held for the
plan noted that odors emanating from area industry, made life intolerable at
times, if not unhealthy. With this situation in mind, Brunswick County wishes to
page 8-22
H

8. Policies For Growth and Development
go on record to encourage area industry and State and Federal agencies to
work cooperatively to resolve these problems related to odor.
page 8-23

8 Policies For Growth and Development
8.2. Resource Production And Management
Policies
8.2.0 Basic Policy
Due to its relatively large geographic size and ecological diversity, Brunswick
Statement
County continues to maintain a natural resource base of huge proportions. As
Regarding
noted in Section 5, resource based "industries", while in decline as a
Resource
percentage of the total local economy, maintain a considerable presence in the
Production and
area. From farming and forestry to commercial fishing, natural resources form
Management
the basis for much of the culture and heritage of the county. And, beyond their
direct economic impact, such resources convey untold benefits in terms of the
open space and rural character they represent. For this reason, the County
has committed itself to participating in no activity nor approving of any activity
which would seriously damage the long-term productive capability of the areas
natural resources.
Brunswick County is onezof #he.mos# biatogically diverse areas n the
State aof North Carolma.The _County; shall'take rao action nor approve of
any action which wouid `seriously or irreparably harmahe.long term bio-
diversit and 'roductivit ''of :the area..:,
8.2.1 Productive Statistics compiled for Section 5.1.2 of this plan (Economy), reveal a continuing
Agricultural Lands decline for agriculture in Brunswick County's overall economy. While the
amount of acreage and cropland has fluctuated somewhat from year to year,
the overall trend toward declining acreage is quite clear. In addition, compared
to some inland counties, Brunswick County's sandy, low nutrient coastal soils
have not traditionally generated high agricultural yields.
At the same time, many parts of the county continue to provide a productive
livelihood and lifestyle of choice for area farmers. These same parts of the
county are being actively managed not only for their agricultural yields, but by
default, for their open space value.
Over the past two decades, the County has experienced the conversion of
substantial amounts of agricultural land into residential and commercial
development. Much of the dissolution of the countryside has been the result of
largely unplanned and unguided developments. The County believes that the
best way to preserve the countryside is to do a better job of building distinct
cities, towns and villages. This means new development in distinct village or
town settings, rather than in indiscriminate, sprawling, suburban -style
subdivisions.
The,continued agricultural use of the Brunswick County's remaining
farmlands shall be encouraged through proactive plarining fior
agricultural antl;open space preservation as well as through growth
management,policies which favor distinct, "town and country" style
development, pa#tet
Brunswick County encourages.the°planning,,installation,and on -going
maintenance .of.commuFni#y-based,"cooperative gardens": Such
gardensmay be:planne,das a part,of new community"designs; or may
be established in, existing nelighborhoods through the. cooperative
efforts°of hameawners.� . . , m � .
page 8-24

1
8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.2.2 Commercial While there are no official current estimates of commercial forest acreage in
Forest Lands Brunswick County, the Planning Board in 1987 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
affects the potable ground water supply. Finally, drained land may eventually
be available for urban development.
In the event that a major forest tract should come on the market for
development; the County will apply the "town and country" development
policies of this plan to such a situation. (See Policy 8.3.3 et. al.)The ability and
appropriateness of the county to provide water (and sewer) services to such
an area will also be considered.
8.2.3 Mineral Historically, mineral production and mining interests in Brunswick County have
' Production Areas involved primarily the extraction of sand and gravel for construction purposes.
There are known deposits of sand and gravel and coquina scattered
throughout the county. Such mining interests have ranged from relatively small
borrow pits to more extensive mining operations involving as many as 100
' acres of land. Examples of the operations involving the larger acreages may
be found currently in the vicinity of Hickman's Crossroads between Shallotte
and the South Carolina line.. . --
As noted in Section 6.1.3(b), interest in mining took on a new focus in 1992
when the Martin Marietta Company made known its interest in extracting large
quantities of limestone from a site in the county north of Southport. Since that
time, there has been considerable debate, including court action, regarding the
' desirability, safety, and environmental concerns regarding the nature of such a
mining operation. These concerns have included the formation of sink holes,
saltwater intrusion, and aquifer depletion, among others.
' Policy 8.2.3� Minera--U, production antl.m n ng acti ttwrwil be considered on.a case
by case review of economic benefits and environmental „and landuse
impacts Mining activitiesinrhich woultl jeopardize the short or,long"
' term viability of �iafuabie`natualresources or, create;hazardous
co`ntlitionssiri`the<Coun" shallfnotkie ermitted
8.2.4 Commercial Commercial and recreational fishing are an integral part of the economic, social
and Recreational and cultural heritage of Brunswick County. As discussed in section 5.1.2(h)
Fisheries Economy, levels of commercial fishing activity have remained steady or even
increased slightly over the past decade or so. This is in contrast with the
' preceding 20 years, during which seafood landings witnessed a slow but
steady decline.
page 8-25

8. Policies For Growth and Development
The ability of the commercial fishing industry to maintain its harvested yields
over the past decade may be due to (1) improved fishing methods, (2) new
ty es of catches, (3) a more plentiful fishery, (4) better reporting methods, or
(5� some combination of all four. Regardless of the cause, area officials are
pleased to be able to report that the commercial fisheries resource is holding
steady, at least from a statistical perspective.
Fish landing statistics, however, are not the sole indicators of the impact of the
fisheries resource on the overall economy of Brunswick County. At the same
time that the county's commercial fishing is holding steady, interest in
recreational fishing has increased enormously. In fact, 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. The current situation regarding shellfish closures in
many of the county's most productive estuarine areas, however, may preclude
open water marine sites.
Brunswiok'County.supports,e orts to,maintain. and enhance; the
fisheries resource of its.waters, inciuding water quaii#yy: protection
measures, nursery.,and habits# preservation, proper-fisheres
management and.enforcement, and aquacul#ure deYelopmen#; and
i
artific alactivities: N..
8.2.5 Off Road Concern for the environmental impacts of off -road vehicles in coastal North
Vehicles 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. For this reason, the county wishes to
discourage any forms of off -road activities which would act to abuse valuable
natural areas.
page 8-26

' 8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.2.6 Development All of the county's major development impact issues, such as strip commercial
Impacts development, sprawling residential development, and 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 and concerns.
Nonetheless, this approach to addressing development impacts points up the
need to consider the "cumulative impacts' of the total number of development
activities occurring simultaneously in any given part of the county. It is
ultimately the combined effect of all development activities that together define
the impact on the area's natural resources, particularly water quality. The
County, therefore, recognizes the need to address each new development
' activity on a case -by -case basis to minimize the cumulative effect of
incremental impacts.
aPolicy 8:2.6,
8.2.7 Peat or While peat and phosphate mining have been an issue in other coastal
Phosphate Mining counties of North Carolina, opportunities for peat or phosphate excavation in.
Impacts Brunswick County are speculative at best and would have to be considered
at the time any such proposal should arise. Given the fragile nature of
extensive areas of the county, the growing dependence of the area on tourism,
' and the critical importance of groundwater resources to the future of the county,
however, prospects for this type of mining operation would necessarily be
approached with high level of concern for its environmental consequences. For
' the present time, the reader is referred to the general mining policy set forth
previously under section 8.2.3. for guidance on this issue.
8.2.8 Gamelands/ Extensive areas of wildlife habitat, nature preserves, woodlands, wetlands,
Hunting Clubs marshes, and open fields have made Brunswick County a sportsman's
haven. This is evident in the number of private hunting clubs scattered
a throughout the county. Such, activities are viewed positively by the County.
In this regard, the County will do -,its part to foster the protection of critical
' wildlife habitats through the land use plan and its associated policies. At the
same time, the County calls upon area hunters and hunting clubs to continue
to serve as proper stewards of the habitats and wildlife resources which may
fall more directly under their management. Proper stewardship should include
respect for the property of others and for the proper use of public highways
(i.e. parking and hunting on the highway is to be discouraged).
F7777Polcy.8.2.8
page 8-27

8 Policies For Growth and Development
Section 8.3 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 development to be
encouraged, 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.
The County's overall policy statement in this subject area calls for continued
efforts to diversify the local economy, protect area resources, and improve the
quality of life. A particular point of emphasis for this plan is the desire to foster
the development of a distinct "town and country" development pattern.
Implementation actions in furtherance of this policy will require a reexamination
of the County's zoning ordinance and building standards to encourage
development projects in keeping with more compact, less sprawling forms of
development.
8.3.1 Types and Much of the area's present attitudes about growth stem from the economic
Locations of history of the county over the past 100 years. Prior to the 1960's, most
Industries Desired 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, County officials recognize
that emerging new industries are often difficult to characterize in today's rapidly
changing national and global economy. Rather than attempting to stereotype a
particular industry as clean or dirty, it is more constructive to think in terms of
the actual impacts that any given industry may generate in terms of, for
example, air particulate matter, water consumption, solid waste produced,
heavy truck traffic generated. etc. Then, numerically based performance
standards may be developed to spell out the reasonable limits that the
County is willing to accept in each of these various areas of impact. An
implementation action to this effect is noted later in this plan regarding the need
page 8-28

1
' 8. Policies For Growth and Development
for development of such standards for inclusion in the County's zoning
' ordinance.
Regarding the location of desired industries, the land classification map
' accompanying this plan illustrates graphically those areas of the county that,
due to their proximity to water, rail, highways, or other strategic assets, are
most appropriate for industry.
8.3.2 Provision of Brunswick County officials understand the importance of meeting basic
Services to infrastructure needs such as water, sewer, and roads to sustain beneficial
Development economic growth. Ongoing efforts to upgrade the County's water system, for
example, reflects a continuing commitment on the part of the County to provide
these critical infrastructure services.
' Further, Brunswick County recognizes that there should be a logical
relationship between future growth and the provision of services to 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 the early 1980's, 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 is not feasible. For this reason, it is
more likely that smaller systems will continue to 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 sewerage needs might best be handled by individual
' municipalities, by sanitary districts or by some combination of the two. In any
event, the County has moved in recent years to become a supporting partner
in local intergovernmental efforts to develop the various authorities necessary
to implement such sewage initiatives.
' 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 Section
6.2). Also, the County's substantial dollar investments in water system
infrastructure, and on -going investments in schools and parks facilities, is the
best evidence of the County's 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 6.2.10 of this plan.
Ipage 8-29

8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.3.3 Urban Growth From a broad, regional perspective, Brunswick County's urban growth pattern
Pattern Desired is strongly influenced by its relationship to the Atlantic Coast, the intracoastal
waterway and, to a lesser extent, the Cape Fear River. The growth trends for
various parts of the county are documented in some detail in section 5.2 of this
plan. 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 recent
years has served to reinforce this pattern. At the same time, Section 6.1.2 of
this plan documents 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 recognize the existing
urban growth area, but to redirect its inertia to those locations within the area
most suitable for development. This is best described as the town an
country" or village and country" growth pattern. A review of the various
sections of this plan will reveal that the intended cumulative effect is to direct
growth in a manner which focuses new developments in compact, village like
clusters, with surrounding open space.
While the regional growth area can be well observed in the land classification
map accompanying this plan, the map does not reflect the intent of the plan to
direct growth into compact clusters within the broadly defined growth areas. For
this fine tuning, the plan must rely upon the policies to accurately describe the
county's objectives regarding growth patterns. These policies, in turn, must be
reinforced by the county zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, stormwater
management controls, and provision of water and sewer. It is through the
combined use of policies and the land classification map, and with support from
growth management tools like the zoning ordinance and the subdivision
regulations, that the desired "town and country" growth pattern of the county
can be achieved.
Brunsw1ck:County."shalLencourage developments which contribute to
a=distinct "town'artti,�ceuntr or "-Village and countir growth pattern.
The intent _of ,this pol[cy.is to;allow ,#or the preservation of.open space
and productive #arm;an,d timber land; to minimize costs of extending
infrastructure::°and services, to avoid higher taxes, and minimize 'traffic
con estion''associated wI .mod
con suburban sprawl.
8.3.4 Types of As noted in Section 5 of this plan, Brunswick County has, for the past few
Residential years, been issuing permits for residential units at a ratio of greater than 2:1,
Development mobile homes to single-family stick built construction. In the 1992 land use
Desired plan, it was noted that four out of every five residential permits issued
between 1987 and 1991 were issued for the placement of mobile homes.
While these numbers do not include permits issued within the beach
communities and larger 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
page 8-30

8. Policies For Growth and Development
1
stock to include more stick built single family and multi family homes in a variety
of development densities and types.
Also, in keeping with the general policy statement for the urban growth pattern
desired, including, especially the "town and country" style of development, the
County has elected to discourage the development of residential areas in
isolated locations, remote from services. Rather, the County would prefer to
see new residential developments locate in existing towns or in village clusters
near such existing urban centers. Within each town or village cluster, the
County supports a wide range of residential development forms, including
especially stick built single family and multi -family units, as well as mobile
homes in locations where they are permitted. At the same time, it is recognized
that when multifamily developments are constructed they should be located
so as not to direct higher traffic volumes through adjoining single family areas.
runsVKtc ounty sha l enco*irrage�a3wia range o res dential
developmenttormsandprodctswithemphass on;convenience to
town aCf!!illage based 60micespResident al developments which
wou d iFso ate residentslfrorrlgttecessary senrices, #hereby increasing,
encou arteto ntnfras#ructure�and service delivery costs, shall not be'
amady deyelopmetit sha l be oca#ed so,as to have direct access
to a state orhigher level road Access #ohigher density.housing
througke(siring lower density residential areas shall be strongly
discoura etl
8.3.5 Types of Input received at the public meetings held for the land use plan revealed a
'
Commercial consistent perspective that most Brunswick County residents are not in favor
Development of the levels of commercial development that have occurred in their urban area
Desired neighbors adjoining the county to the north and south. In fact, many area
residents have chosen to live in Brunswick County precisely because of their
'
desire to stay away from that level of commercialism. The end result is that
while most residents support the development of services nearby to meet their
basic needs, they do not favor the stripping of the County's roadways with
commercial development from one end to the other. Commercial strip
'
development, with its traffic congestion, glaring plastic signs, lack of
:. landscaping, and..the:"sea of asphalt" parking lots adjoining the highway are
characteristics of rampant commercialism that most residents would prefer to do
'
without.
Fortunately, from a planning perspective, beneficial commercial development
can be accommodated in a manner which adds value to a community, and
'
avoids most of the pitfalls noted above. Positive measures which can be
taken include:
• Commercial development can be grouped in existing town
'
centers or in planned clusters to avoid stripping the highways
and destroying the rural, open character of the county —a
character that so many residents of Brunswick County have
come to appreciate, and one that is in keeping with the "town
'
and country" theme of this plan.
• When commercial development must occur along a "country"
'
highway, it should be clustered at the intersection of two roads,
thereby allowing for access from four directions. This also
avoids concentrating all vehicular turning movements on a single
'
page 8-31

8. Policies For Growth and Development
Policy,8.3.5(b)
roadside, and over a period of years, will eventually result in the
need for fewer traffic signals.
• Commercial signage can be required to occur as ground level,
monument style signs, rather than plasticized, "in your face"
pole mounted signs.
• Parking lots can be placed to the side or even the rear of
commercial buildings, thereby bringing the architecture rather
than the asphalt closer to the viewing public.
• Given the high visibility of most commercial developments, it is
reasonable to expect that a fair amount of landscaping and trees
should be required. Such landscaping can also double its value
by absorbing and retaining stormwater runoff from parking
areas, thereby helping to prevent further degradation of the
county's estuarine waters, including shelIfishing:beds, and
primary nursery areas.
• A row of trees or other natural buffer strip can be left along both
sides of the highway, thereby creating the striking illusion of
driving through a corridor of trees, rather than a corridor of
asphalt. This natural buffer area can also be instrumental in
reducing stormwater runoff.
It is important to note that all of the above measures are fully within the
planning enabling legislation for local governments as authorized by the State
of North Carolina. It requires only the resolve of County and municipal leaders
to put these measures in place through local zoning.
Regarding office and institutional development, this plan recommends that
offices be used as a logical buffer between commercial uses and residential
uses. This allows commercial uses to be within walking distance of homes, a
feature particular beneficial to Brunswick County's growing ranks of senior
citizens, who will at some point in their lives be unable to drive to basic
services. It also creates the opportunity for area residents to walk to places of
employment, either in the offices or at the commercial establishments.
Office and institutional development may be employed asa
transitional land use: between; residences and more intensive forms of
commerciat„'development, prov,ided that such .transitional ,
development is compatible in design and scale with nearby
residences.=
page 8-32

8. Policies For Growth and Development
I
8.3.6
Ten years, ago, the 1987 update to the land use plan noted that... "beyond
Redevelopment,
scattered historic home restoration, there is little restoration or redevelopment
including
activity occurring in the unincorporated areas of Brunswick County" (page 86).
Relocation of
In the past few years, however, this situation is beginning to change. As the
Threatened
area continues to "mature" there are a high number of substandard houses
Structures
throughout the county in need of rehabilitation. At the same time, many other
older structures are becoming functional[ obsolete, (e.g. older service
stations) which could eventually lead to their abandonment and decline. In
such cases, the best use may be an adaptive reuse for some other purpose.
The County believes that the best way to insure that these structures will be
either reused, rehabilitated, or removed, is to provide for good jobs, higher
incomes, and a climate of investment for area residents. Thus, the County
continues to be very supportive of economic development efforts from both an
industrial and tourism development perspective.
With regard to structures which may be threatened by major storm events or
shore line or beach erosion, most of these situations occur within the
incorporated beach municipalities of the county. The County's policies
concerning such situations are presented fully in Section 8.5 concerning Storm
Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation.
runsw ck C,ounty supports'. n ,enc , rages;the: restorat I an or
a propriate='adaptive reuse of signiificant^and architecturally, important
pp
histonc.and culturalstrd tures andsites,.x
Redevelopment and/or rehabilitat on of substandard tructures within
i w: ounty�shall be supporte`d�#hrough public and p�ivatesector
lritiatives for the=`economicbette`rment'of:area°.residents:
Recogn z ng that most erodible:oreas are:w th n #he.planning.
juritdict)lons'W the County's muriic(palities, the:: County nonetheless
supports a'policy of relocation and; retreat, rather #han shoreline.;
riarden[ng,xwhen structures are threatened by shoreline erosion,(Also'
see.Pol c 8 3.8 a 're ardin` "su ort for;beach "renourishmerit:
8.3.7 Commitment = CAMA guidelines suggestthat local governments address local commitment to
to State and state and federal programs including items such as erosion control, public
Federal Programs access, highway improvements, port facilities, dredging, and military facilities.
Brunswick County acknowledges and 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 cooperates and
assists 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
page 8-33

8 Policies For Growth and Development
intracoastal waterway and the Cape Fear River channel, as well as proposed
efforts related to water quality improvements in the Lockwood Folly River and
its inlet (More on this under 8.3.8 below). Obviously, the North Carolina
Department of Transportation's ongoing transportation Improvement program is
also of considerable significance to the County.
runswic County supports applicable sta#e and ederal programs
regarding econom103,and communityYdeviopment, Y-11 #iagse;
programs related °to tietter--fobs, water ....... fisheries, and water
andiandarans ortation'>s stem impro"vemeints _ -
8.3.8 Assistance to
As noted immediately above, Brunswick County's waterways are vital to the
Channel
long term vitality of the county's fisheries industry, as well as recreational
Maintenance and
boating economy. Efforts to maintain the county's waterways are therefore
Beach
supported to the maximum extent possible, including activities necessary to
Renourishment
provide for the provision of borrow and spoil areas and the provision of
easements when necessary to accomplish the work. The maintenance
dredging and water quality management efforts on behalf 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 relocation work
related to the opening of the eastern channel of the Lockwood Folly River.
Proponents of the work believe that relocating the channel to a position more
directly in line with the main channel of the river would significantly increase the
flushing action of tidal currents, thereby improving the water quality and
shellfishing possibilities in the river.
The Wilmington office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) has
received a special appropriation from Congress to study water quality and
preliminary engineering issues related to the future relocation of the channel.
Other legislative action is underway in Congress which would authorize the
ACOE to undertake the actual relocation work (recognizing that such
authorizations can take many months or even years to approve).' A specific
implementation action is included in this plan.calling upon Congress and all
federal and state agencies to pursue these actions with all due speed.
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. At the same
time, the County believes that the direct funding needs for beach
renourishment are best handled by the long standing federal/state/municipal
cost sharing program. The County, on the other hand, can continue to
concentrate its financial resources on many other pressing and costly areas of
need, including schools, transportation, growth management, human services,
law enforcement, and parks and recreation, among others.
'Telephone call and fax from James Norment of U.S. Congressman Mike McIntyre's office, November 18, 1997
Brunswick Gounty:supports the continued.maintenance'o nayfgable
channels and.intets:and he renourishmert of the county's beaches in a
timely; coordinated fashion: The Countywill assist; in whatever'non-
move#a ycapacity it -can, to'see that proper spoil areas .and other
channel mantenanxce.needs are made available.in support of thase
efforts. y :-
page 8-34

8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.3.9 Energy CAMA guidelines suggest that each local government include specific policies
Facility Siting and related to energy facility siting and development. Specific subjects under this
Development heading include electric generating plants, inshore and outer continental shelf
exploration or energy development, possibilities for onshore refineries,
storage, and trans -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 and Light and the Cogentrix Co -generating Plant
near Southport. Both of these industries are valuable economic assets to the
county._Both facilities have.worked to achieve high standards of design and
'
operation. In the case of oil related energy facilities, however, the County is
justifiably concerned about the major adverse impacts that this form of energy
development could bring with it. With an ever growing economy based on the
strength of the county's beach -oriented tourism development, the County must
'
exercise caution in approving of any industry which could jeopardize its long
term future. The County is therefore, not supportive of off -shore oil
development or its associated on -shore support facilities.
'
As an aside, recent announcements regarding renewed interest by the oil
industry in exploration for oil deposits off the North Carolina coast has
reinvigorated the long standing debate about this issue. For this reason, it is
'
certainly prudent to have a specific policy in place regarding off -shore
development at this time.
11
Due toot e . nherent confl cts ,with the =grow ng, substant al, tour st-
based ssector'of: Brunswick County'syeconomy; :the de"velopment >of
off shore:energyy4acilities antl associated on -shore staging and
servicebases shallnot<tie supported: Similarly, oil, "rtatural'gas and
relatedirefining operations shall not -be supported=in Brunswick
Count
8.3.10 Tourism Tourism as an economic development industry has been a subject of
increasing discussion and debate over the past decade. Many residents have
voiced concern that the County is becoming too tourism dependent. Other
residents have opined that tourism jobs are too often low -paying or offer
limited opportunities for advancement. Still others have disputed such views
as unwarranted.stereotypes of an industry with unlimited potential.
The central issue of discussion suggested by these views is the type of
tourism that the County wishes to promote. Perhaps all concerns can best be
addressed by a County policy which encourages tourism that generates
higher expenditures per tourist visitor. 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.
The advantage 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.
page 8-35

8. Policies For Growth and Development
Ultimately, "wear and tear" on the area's natural environment will be minimized,
while the economic benefits of tourist dollars will continue to flow into the
county.
A second component of this strategy is to encourage development forms which
are suggestive of more of an upscale tourism trade, meaning the avoidance of
garish signage, and the "loud" self advertising often associated with some
types of tourist oriented commercial development.
Brunsw10K Ca un#y;encourages the development o a high quality,
tourism=trade�as a primary elementof;the couny's economic..future.
irtvestmen#s ineducatiortand trainiing,,senrices, facilities, growth
management, andacommunity appearance shall be employed in
furtheranceof#lisobjective a.. c�... .
BrunswickCounsl#all pursutea#ourism development strategy which
capttal�zes upon # e area's upique natural and scenic resources,
specificail �r awo'idin�the congestion'sand garish visual blight -,often ,
associatewi#htnore urban or en#ertainment-oriented tourist
'desfi`natios s „ yea
8.3.11 Beach, Brunswick County has had in place a Shoreline Access plan since 1990. As
Waterfront and stated in the Plan's introduction, ..."[t]he primary purpose of the plan is to
Boating Access identify sites, set 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, page 2.)
The following summarizes the policy section of 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, in addition 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 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
page 8-36

1
a Policies For Growth and Development
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.
'
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
"Comprehensive
Brunswick County's Plan", of which the CAMA land
use plan is also a part.
Need 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.
t
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. This plan
'
suggests that the County update the Shoreline Access Plan within the next
five years; an implementation action has been included in Section 12 of this
plan to this effect.
I
page 8-37

8. Policies For Growth and Development
^„i?�olicy,:8.3,11(a)
8.3.12
Beautification,
Including Signs,
Roadway
Appearance and
Litter
Policy- t3 3A2(a)
The 1996 report entitled Recommendations of the Brunswick County Long
Range Planning Committee includedefollowing excerpt regarding the
appearance ot many of Re County's roadways:
"For many visitors to Brunswick County, the roads leading to
and from the beaches present one of the primary impressions
of the County. Residents, business owners, and technical
resource persons consulted during the preparation of this report
related many stories and comments from visitors to the County
which essentially said the same thing: "Beautiful area, ugly
roadways." The County has within its power the authority to
institute, modify, and enforce specific regulations concerning the
control and prevention of visual blight along the county's
roadways.
Foremost among these controls are zoning and subdivision
regulations. These local ordinances can be tailored to achieve
local objectives regarding the placement and design of new
development. Such local objectives may include clustering
commercial development in compact shopping centers as
opposed to stripping large lengths of highway. Other
objectives may include minimizing the number of driveway cuts,
limiting the size and number of on -premise signs and off -
premises billboards, screening outdoor storage, and prohibiting
trash, junked vehicles, and dilapidated structures in.yards.
Implementing such a program of highway beautification is not a
question of how, but rather, how much the County chooses to
make this a priority. (page 3)
Thus, in large measure, Brunswick County's highways are what most
travelers see when passing through or visiting the county. If the county is to
be successful in recruiting industry and a quality tourism trade to the area, then
the issue of highway beautification must take on a high level of importance.
Brunswick,Countyshall employ lowof incentives and
controls to encourage beau#ificatton measures which preserve the
naturai amenities of the"community, e'speclally.as Seen from,the'
count"'s hi `hwa s and roadwa s.
The County °shalt continually,., mprove its-s gnage start arcI so .that as'
the area; grtional aignage. will n of Vlsually;oyerwt elm the:,,;
count y'.s roadways, 'thereby°detracting:from<the beautyof the "area
and devaluing its attractiveness as a place tn:vvhich to live or vacation
page 8-38

8. Policies For Growth and Development
Policy8 3A2(d).
8.3.13 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 Southeast Sanitary District; the County's previously
prepared airspace zoning will continue to be enforced by the County in
cooperation with the Sanitary District. 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.
IPolicy 8.3.13
Brunsw ck County isupports the contlnued developmentof
Brunswick County Airport and will encourage land development
Iatterns:whh allow for adequate airport expansion and
mprovements.
8.3.14 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 for the 1992 Land Use
Plan and later confirmed during the public meetings held for the Brunswick
County Long Range Plan (1996), Brunswick County's hopes for economic
' development rest with an improved, better trained labor force which
possesses the basic educational skills necessary to survive in the
increasingly technical workplace of the 1990's. In light of this concern,
Brunswick County has given increased priority to improving the county's
' public schools, including substantial increases in funding.
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
I
page 8-39

8 Policies For Growth and Development
Policy $.3 14(c)
construction to keep up with Brunswick County's incredible growth rate. Unlike
many other counties, Brunswick County does not appear to be lacking the
financial resources necessary to support a quality school system.
The:atta nment of a quality educational system shall be recognized as
a "critical factor;in the future economic de�elopmentand quality of life
m Brunswick County: Actions taken by"the County in support of
educationahall reflect -the high priority given o his issue.
Responsibility";for improvements to theeducational system shall not
be:placed"soleiywlth policy makers,professional educators and
administrators.:P.,rograms and actions which emphasize (1) parental
invohement"antl,(2} assistance from the business community shall be
stronglypursued..
Appropr ate'educational and train ng programs shall be encouraged to
help' unemployed, and underemployed local residents take advantage
of business expansion"'and to stay`abreast of new technologies.
8.3.15 Solid Waste Solid waste management was identified as a high priority issue during the
Management public input meetings held during the early stages of plan preparation. Solid
waste continues to be a big issue, in part, due to the environmentally fragile
nature of most of the county's land area, and, in part, due to the on -going
challenges of making a system work based largely on unsupervised "green
boxes".
Policy "8.315(a)'
Policy 8.3.15(b)
Policy"8.3.15(c)
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. Current
plans call for the closing of the present County landfill on December 31, 1997,
At that time, the site will function in a new role as a county -wide transfer facility
for the hauling of all waste, which formerly would have gone to the landfill, to
disposal facilities outside the county. (see Section 6.2.10)
Regardless of how the county's solid waste is ultimately disposed of, there is
growing public sentiment in favor of recycling efforts in the county. A key to the
effort may be how to implement recycling educational programs among part-
time residents housed in second homes and resort rental units.
Brunswick County industries generate sizable amounts of industrial waste, the
disposal needs for which are handled largely by the industries themselves.
Localarea requirements for solid waste disposal facilities shall
continue to be anticipated through. advanced` planning; facilities shall
be located and designed so as not to adversely impact significant
natural or manmade resources.
IurunswiCK County recognizes the need for a regional solution to the
solid waSte `:issue and will support efforts toward that end.
Research and development of recycling and resource recovery
programs, whether public or private, shall be encouraged and
supported.
page 8-40

8. Policies For Growth and Development
11
�I
I
8.3.16 Growth and For the past several years, Brunswick County has been in the process of
Development revising and improving its relatively new zoning standards, as well as its
Controls subdivision regulations. Several development trends in the area are causing
the 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 continued at a rapid pace for some time now, far
outdistancing the pace of conventional single family construction in the area.
Stormwater runoff and proper drainage continues to grow in importance as
more impervious surfaces are created with new development.
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 which may or may not be suitable for development under today's
tougher standards.
At the public meetings held for the land use plan, the need for improvement in
the County's existing land use controls, particularly zoning, was evident from
the comments received from area residents. Comments included the need for
better, tougher enforcement, the need to better manage mobile home
placements, to halt the hodge podge of commercial strip development which
has proliferated along the County's major roadways, and the need to
encourage cluster development in coordination with sewer services.
As noted repeatedly in this plan, 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 and from it
are especially important corridors which will continue to require careful land use
planning and zoning controls.
For the 1997 land use plan update, the Brunswick County Planning Board has
elected to choose a theme of "town and country", emphasizing the need to
encourage new development in or near towns or villages, whether existing or
created from scratch. The intent is to avoid a continuation of the sprawling style
of development that seems to have overtaken the county in the past two
decades.
8.3.17 Tree Cover, As noted above, Brunswick County has, over the past several years, been in
Landscaping and the process of revising, improving and, in some instances, creating new land
Buffering use controls. This is not at all unusual for a rapidly growing area. Among the
many shortcomings of the county's existing ordinances, is the general absence
of standards for tree preservation, parking lot landscaping, and natural or man-
made buffers. At present, planning officials believe that they may best be able
to address these needs through the open space standards of the County's
subdivision ordinance. In the future, new provisions may also be added to the
County's zoning and site plan review procedures.
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8. Policies For Growth and Development I
8.3.18 As noted in Section 6.2.4 of this plan, Brunswick County has a Thoroughfare
Transportation Plan which is updated periodically. Preparation of the plan involves 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 last Thoroughfare Plan was adopted by the
County and its municipalities in October and November of 1987, just prior to
certification of the 1987 Land Use Plan Update. A new Thoroughfare Plan is
currently in development. It is hoped that the new Plan will be ready for
adoption before the end of 1998.
In addition to the Thoroughfare Plan, Brunswick County also participates in the
annual preparation of a Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), a
cooperative effort between the State DOT and local governments in the area.
The TIP sets forth those transportation projects which, based on a variety of
criteria, are to receive priority for funding over the ensuing seven year period.
In recent years, there has been a marked movement in some communities
toward the preparation of transportation plans, as opposed to more narrowly
focused thoroughfare plans. in the latter case, the plan is oriented almost
exclusively - toward streets and highways, while in the former, alternative
transportation modes like bikeways, mass transit, water borne transportation,
air travel, and pedestrian needs are given consideration.
Brunswick County shalt°be an active participant in plans and -actions
related #o Transportation 1�nprovements,to and:within the Codnty.
Transp' ;ortation improvements shall; be coordinated•.with land use ,
planning, infrastructure improvements, and economic development
efforts. F
Brunswick County supports reg onaLf,ntergovernmental planning and
cooperation iorxt ansportation [tnprovements; fo and3withI r .
sodthea"stern,North;Carolina:and: northeas#ern;South.Garolna;
Continued,use and planned;development of ,the Cape Fear River,
Atlantic .lntracoastal Wa#erway, and iheYBrunswick County Airport
shall be encouraged.
8.3.19 Sunny Point The Sunny Point Military Terminal commands a major presence along the west
Military Ocean side of the Cape Fear River north of Southport. In addition to its influence over
Terminal boat traffic and shipping movements in the Cape Fear, the terminal also draws
rail shipments from time to time within the County. Beyond those transportation
related impacts, the influence of the terminal is largely in terms of the sizable
acreage involved in accommodating its operating areas, and to a greater
extent, its safety "explosion zone" buffers.
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8 Policies For Growth and Development
' While the County supports the terminal's on -going mission within the national
system of defense, local officials also recognize that the development of a
' contingency plan for the terminal area is prudent, in the event that the
Pentagon and/or Congress should ever elect to close the facility.
1
IJ
8.3.20 Capital In the context of local government, "capital improvements" are often defined as
Improvement major, non -recurring expenditures related to the purchase or construction of a
Planning permanent or relatively long lasting asset. Capital improvements may include,
for example, land acquisition, construction or major rehabilitation of a building or
other facility, the purchase of major equipment, or any planning, feasibility,
engineering or design study related to a major capital project.
Given the range of capital improvement needs and expenses that the County
will face in the coming years, this plan suggests that a long and short range
capital improvement plan be introduced as a routine part of the annual budget
setting process for the County. This plan should include a needs assessment
and long range plan for such things as schools, fire stations, vehicles, industrial
parks, water treatment and distribution, sewage collection, treatment and
disposal, stormwater infrastructure, parks and the like. Cost estimates and
sources of funding should be summarized in the plan for the approximate
year(s) in which expenditures are anticipated. Coordination with the County's
municipalities and water districts will be critical.
BrunswickCounty shall planahead.<for;the.timely andcost effective
provision of majorcapital improvements and services on the basis of'.
anticl `ated,'' "rbwtf and'demand. .,
oordiation between t e County, ttsmun c palities, sewer districts,
acid maor.industries shalt be encouraged'in planning and providing for
ca itai facilifies.:and `services.;: ...,
8.3.21 Parks and In many vacation areas, particularly beach oriented vacation areas, it is not
Recreation unusual to hear the comment: "Why do we need parks facilities when we've
got miles upon miles of public beaches and open waterways?" The answer is
that while beaches and waterways are great, they do not satisfy the need for
organized athletics —soccer, baseball, tennis, competitive swimming and the
like. Several other supporting points can also be made:
• First, while there may be miles of beaches and thousands of acres of open,
public trust waters in the County, public access to these areas is not keeping
pace with public demand. Demand for public parking at the county's beaches
grows with each passing year and the addition of more parking can be
contentious and expensive.
• Second, access to the county's public trust waters has stagnated for many
years during a time when the population has been exploding. As the county
continues to grow, it will become increasingly more important to locate and build
boat ramps, marinas, and other forms of public access to the water.
• Third, in terms of athletic facilities, the County built a series of area parks
during the 1980s— one in the Leland/Belville area, one in the Southport -Oak
page 8-43

8 Policies For Growth and Development
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
centers 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. (See
Section 6.2.9, for an inventory of facilities at each site)
- Fourth, while some of the county's athletic needs can be met at area schools
(and indeed are) school facilities by themselves are seldom sufficient to meet
the needs of both school age children and all other post -school age groups.
Thus, while the county's beaches, waterways, and athletic facilities continue
to serve the county well, they are no better able to keep up with the ever
increasing demands of a rapidly growing population than any other community
amenity or service. The County must therefore continue to plan ahead for
future park sites or additions to existing park sites. At the same time, the
County also encourages area towns to become full participants in the
provision of parks and recreation facilities and services. Any such planning
should be part of the Capital Improvement Plan identified under Section 8.3.20.
8.3.22 Long Range In February of 1996, after over a year of public meetings, interviews with
Planning dozens of area leaders, and numerous special committee meetings, the
Brunswick County Long Range Planning Committee submitted its sixteen
recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. Public input was
broad and constructive, and discussions during the development of the
recommendations, detailed and probing.
In the time since the completion of the report, many of the recommendations of
the Committee have proven to be an accurate gauge of continuing public
opinion on issues such as education, land use planning and zoning, solid
waste management, roadside litter, industrial development, sewage treatment
and stormwater management, and a number of other critical issues facing the.
county. This was no more evident than during the public input meetings held
for the land use plan, when issues identified by the public struck the many of
the same major themes that had been first identified during the Long Range
Planning Process.
Given the rapid growth of the area, this plan recommends that the County
continue to embrace a long range bias within each major area of county
government, perhaps by instituting a formal long range planning process
within the annual goal setting and budget process.
Given;the accelerated.°growth.' of the .County:and projections of. ,
continued rapid'growth, _.runsWick County"shall,contmuelo:embrace a:
bias.for Long range, strategic planrij with near term priorities;
estabiished annuall in -.con unction with;the-Count 's.budget:process.
page 8-44

_
8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.4 Public Participation Policies
'
The public participation plan and program for the Brunswick County land use
plan is discussed fully in Section 11 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 "district level" meetings held in seven 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.
CAMA guidelines suggest that public participation policies be discussed in four
'
categories; (1) public education on planning, (2) ongoing public participation
opportunities (3) citizen input in developing policy and (4) intergovernmental
coordination. The following policies address the suggested headings.
'
8.4.0 Basic Policy
Statement
Regarding Public
'
Participation
—, `Policy `8.4.t (b).
' Pol c - y 8,4.1- c)
runswick:County believes that�an on=going,°publ c information:
program, combined with meaningful opportunities for citizen
Involvement:n"County'decision-making; is the foundation for effective
public participation'.in.county government:
runswick County shall nue.to employ public participation
techniques, of public, meetings,which' actwely involveahe public in
identifyng,and discussing planning ,issues, #hereby facilitating �a form
of Uengaged" educatlon:<Medla' attention concerning:"such" meetings is
alsa'stronglyyencouraged antl thankfully acknowledged for the public
service; they Fprovide. .
ollowing.plam,a option, Brunswick County shall employ frequent,
constructive and open regular.meetings of he Planning Board and
County Commissioners as the primary vehi61616r:engaging public
participation in on=going; plann ng issues and development projects.
Citizen, inNutr n"the development -of growth pgl,icies shall be supported
through attenton;gtven to theassues and priorities* Ich the public
tdentifid during early -input meetings.
page 8-45

8. Policies For Growth and Development
page 8-46

J
8 Policies For Growth and Development
8.5 Storm Hazard Mitigation/Post-Disaster
Recovery, & Evacuation Policies and Plans
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.
8.5.0 Description of
the Effects of
' Coastal Storms
8.5.0(a)Storm During coastal storms, including both hurricanes and northeasters, Brunswick
Effects County and its beach communities, in particular, are subject to beach erosion,
storm surge, wave action, flooding, high winds, and beach washover. Of
these, storm surge and high winds are typically the two most damaging storm
effects. These storm effects are listed below for each of the five recognized
levels during hurricane events of increasing magnitude (as measured on the
Saffir-Simpson scale). Additional descriptions of the effects of flooding, storm
surge, and wind effects follow.
Hurricane Category Storm Sure MaximumSustained Winds
Category 4-5 above normal74--95—M—Pfi
Category 2 6-8' above normal 96-110 mph
' Category 3 9-12' above normal 111-130 mph
Category 4 13-18' above normal 131-155 mph
Category 5 over 18' above normal over 155 mph
' 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. As noted in Section 8.5.0(C) below, much of this area is attractive
for residential development, so there has been substantial private investment
in these flood prone areas. FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps identify those
areas of land with a 1 % chance of flood inundation in any given year. Flooding
in areas closest to the ocean can be the result of storm surge, i.e. water that is
pushed upstream by strong winds off the ocean. Some flooding on small
tributaries can also be attributed to heavy rainfall over a short period of time.
Storm Surge and The US Army Corps of Engineers has used the Special Program to List the
Wave Action in Amplitude of Surge from Hurricanes (SPLASH) model to map Storm Surge
Brunswick County Inundation Areas in the County. The resulting SPLASH map, available for
inspection at the County Planning Office, shows surge levels based on class
one through five hurricanes, traveling at slow and fast speeds. By using these
maps, local emergency management authorities can plan evacuation routes
based on anticipated inundation levels under various storm scenarios.
' In addition, a SLOSH (Sea, Lake, & Overland Surges) model was designed
by the National Hurricane Center in 1992 for the Myrtle Beach and Wilmington
area. The Wilmington District, USACOE was project manager for the study,
which was funded by FEMA, the US ACOE and the State of North Carolina.
' The work resulted in the production of a Storm Surge Atlas for the Myrtle
Beach to Wilmington area.
' page 8-47

8. Policies For Growth and Development
Another recent information source has been the development of a geographic
information systems (GIS) database on first and second row oceanfront
structures for parts of Brunswick County. Developed at NC State University
and funded by FEMA, the database holds information on building size, use,
setbacks, parcel number, elevation, current replacement value, and tax data.
Currently, the Division of Coastal Management has applied for funds to allow
this database to be extended to cover all of Brunswick County, as well as
New Hanover County and parts of Pender County. It is hoped that this
information may be available to local governments in the next few years.
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 110 mph winds from a
hurricane. The State Building Code requires that any new structure built in the
county be able to withstand winds of 110 mph. The Building Code sets
standards for design, anchorage and tie downs for structures.
8.5.0(b) Hazard The Hazardous Areas Map provides an instant visual assessment of those
Areas Mapped parts of the unincorporated County susceptible to various hazardous events.
The map shows three distinct hazardous areas within the planning jurisdiction
of the County. The first, and most expansive, are lands in the 100 year flood
plain, as identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
A second type of mapped hazard area involves the Ocean Hazard AEC's.
These are areas of velocity flooding, and include properties susceptible to
shoreline erosion. These areas include those parts of the incorporated area
along the county's oceanfront that would be subject to wave -action -type
flooding and erosion during a major storm event. As noted in Section 8.1.2(e) of
this plan, most ocean hazard areas in the County fall within the planning
jurisdiction of the beach communities along the south facing ocean shore.
A third hazard area is not related to natural events at all, but rather is related to
the Sunny Point Military Terminal on the west side of the Cape Fear River
north of Southport. The buffer area owned and controlled by the U.S. Army
involves thousands of acres of land within planning jurisdiction of Brunswick
County. In the event of a major explosion at the terminal, the buffer area is
designed to absorb much of the worst part of the blast. It also contributes to
the security of the area.
While the Hazardous Areas Map serves as a general guide as to where
flooding could occur, it should not be used for site specific land use
interpretation. Rather, when considering a particular site for development,
detailed site specific mapping of a professional surveyor should be employed.
8.5.0(c) Existing Each of the three hazard areas described in the paragraph above were placed
Development at as an overlay on the generalized existing land use map of the County. In
Risk accordance with CAMA guidelines, this allows for a relatively convenient
visual assessment of the degree to which different developed parts of the
County may be at risk. Based on this composite overlay exercise, it may be
concluded that the vast majority of the most developed areas of the
unincor orated County are not within the 100 year floodplain. This is
understandable, given the relatively large land area of the County and the
ability to pick and choose suitable sites for development. This is not to say,
however, that all development in the unincorporated area is entirely out of the
floodplain. 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
page 8-48 ,

8. Policies For Growth and Development
I
1
11
populations. Some residential developments, including especially properties
located immediately adjacent to the intracoastal waterway and the rivers
flowing into it, have ventured into the 100 year floodplain. There is also
considerable development at risk located within the flood hazard areas of the
incorporated beach communities (not shown on the Hazardous Areas Map).
Fortunately, new developments must comply with current floodplain
management regulations, including elevation of the first habitable floor above
the 100 year flood level. Recent experience with hurricanes in southeastern
North Carolina clearly demonstrated that properties properly elevated above
the flood level suffered fewer property losses from hurricane related flooding.
8.5.1 Storm Hazard Storm hazard mitigation involves "activities which reduce the probability that a
Mitigation Policies disaster will occur, and minimize the damage 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).
8.5.1(a� Storm
In the case of severe storms, conditions exist which pose a serious threat to
.
Effect Mitigation
life and property within the unincorporated area of the County. Accordingly, the
County has adopted a number of State and local ordinances which benefit
storm azard mitigation. These ordinances include:
• 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.
Each of these ordinances. are described in the following paragraphs. Please
note that this land use plan does not reflect changes or additions which may
be made to these ordinances and standards during the planning period.
Flood Damage
The County regulates development in flood hazard areas through the flood
Prevention
plain management regulations of Article 5, Articles A-E in Ordinance No. 62, An
Ordinance
Ordinance Enacting a Building Code for Brunswick County, North Carolina.
CAMA Guidelines
All development occurring in AEC areas must conform to state guidelines,
for AEC's
which serve to discourage inappropriate development forms in these
environmentally sensitive areas.
Brunswick County
The Brunswick County Building Code Ordinance, enacted April, 1985,
Building Code
contains an element entitled "Provisions for Flood Hazard Reduction, (Article 5).
Ordinance
This section cites the requirements for new construction or 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.
page 8-49

8 Policies For Growth and Development
• 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 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 County
The Brunswick County Subdivision Ordinance, which was first adopted in
Subdivision
1980, was until recently little more than a registration ordinance for new
Ordinance
divisions of land. It contained few specific design 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. At the time of this
writing, it is undergoing another revision and update. Administration of the
ordinance has included the incorporation by reference of Section 1-4-69, the
Revised Codes of Brunswick County, Standards For Subdivision proposals,
including specific provisions to minimize or eliminate flood damage.
NC Uniform
The North Carolina Uniform Residential Building Code is the tool that the
Residential
County uses to manage development to minimize potential wind damage. The
Building Code
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 Growth
Since the time of the last land use plan update (1992), Brunswick County
Management
enacted a zoning ordinance for the unincorporated area. At present, the
page 8-50

8. Policies For Growth and Development
Policy &5.1(a)
Storm Effect
Mitigation
1
ordinance is in need of review for consistency with the flood hazard and storm
hazard mitigation objectives of the County.
1 'Hgh Winds: Brunswick County shall continue to enforce the North
Carolina Building Code, particularly thoseprovisions which require
onstruction standardsato meet resistive.factors, i.e. design, wind'
velocity.
(3) Flooding: The Coun is an act ive;participant in the National Flood
In Program ands supportive of its hazard mitigation elements.
The County shall continue to�seek improvements in development
standards which woultl result`in lower insurance premiums for County
property. owners: The. County also supports properenforcement of
State and Tederall, wetlands development permit processes in areas
,potentiallysusce tible fo floodin .
4) Wave Action and Shoreline Erosion: The County is supportive of
the CAMA development permit process for oceanfront and .estuarine
shoreline areas.and the requisite,evelopment standards which
encourage shoreline preservad
tion`, dune stabilization, wave action
absorption, and other mitigation measures.
8.5.1(b) The County employs many of the same ordinances and standards described
Discouragement of under Section 8.5.1 (a) above to discourage development in hazardous
Hazardous locations. In addition, the County has an organized, emergency management
Development program and full-time coordinator. The emergency management office works
' actively with all local governments in the County to plan for and carry out
emergency management programs.
'
Policy 85.1(b)
Discouragement of
Hazardous
Development
1
1) Brunswick °County.shall discourage high intensity uses and large
structuresfrom:,being constructed within the 100-year floodplain,
rosion-prone areas, and other locations susceptible to hurricane and
flooding hazards.
(2) Brunswick County; through its Emergency Management Office,
shall encourage each of its communities to participate in hurricane
preparedness, education` andinformation sharing programs at least
once per year. Such public outreach programs should educate the
public as to storm resistant building design and construction
standards, as well as local government policies on evacuation,
reentry, restoration of services and 'reconstruction.
[3) The County will periodicaconduct studies to analyze both the
feasibility, and benefits.of revislly ing local building and development
standards to lessen the effects of storm damage. Included shall be an
3xamination of the County's floodplain management, zoning,
subdivision and building standards.
page 8-51

8. Policies For Growth and Development
Section 8.5.1(c) Brunswick County views the purchase of lots or sites that may have been
Public Land rendered unbwldable by shoreline erosion with a wary eye. The same erosion
Acquisition that renders a lot unbuildable for private use could eventually also render the
lot unusable for County purposes. In evaluating potential property purchases,
the County shall take into consideration rates of erosion or other factors which
could have a bearing on the longevity and ultimate usefulness of the property
for public use. If such erosion rates or trends are found to be unfavorable for
the longevity of the lot, the County shall not participate in its acquisition.
8.5.1(d) Evacuation With the recent experience of hurricanes Bertha and Fran during 1996,
and Emergency emergency management officials throughout the county have learned much
Management about improving the coordination of evacuation efforts, especially concerning
the various beach communities. This experience should serve the county, its
municipalities, and its many law enforcement, fire and rescue programs well in
the future.
1)EBrunaw�ciC County, In cooperation w th mun cipal'and State officials,;
shallxannual[y evaluate the innpact;of continuesi growth on existing.
#ransporEaton�"facll�t�es with regard to evacuation "routes and times.
The°:lrtent shall be`to identify and address needed transportation
lmprovements'well,in advance "of'a crisis`. ; "
2 runsw ck County reeogn; zes the.,cr t cal role.that area f re
departmenis; rescue squads and other emergency: personnel play in
managiuchng emergency:`"situations The County shall.work cooperativelyi
with :sa nergen. k�. ersonnei to plan=for:and respond to
emergencles and shall facilitate cooperation among emergency'
ersonnel.
8.5.2 Post Disaster Post disaster reconstruction policies are required as part of the land use plan to
Reconstruction guide development during the reconstruction period 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.
5- The establishment of policies for repair and or replacement of public
infrastructure including relocation to less hazardous areas.
Each of these categories will now be discussed in turn.
page 8-52

r,
8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.5.2(a) Emergency Given the large number of incorporated towns in Brunswick County, and
' Management Plan divided responsibilities for the issuance of building permits, and for the
enforcement of laws regarding re-entry to area beach towns, a primary concern
immediately following a major storm event is county -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. Suffice it to say
that the Brunswick County Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan, as it is called,
lays out the specific structure of post disaster re-entry procedures, damage
assessment policies, and other matters of pressing concern immediately
' following a major storm event.
8.5.2(b) Local Brunswick County has spent considerable time preparing, testing , carrying
Policies to Direct out, and improving upon the aforementioned Disaster Relief and Assistance
Reconstruction Plan. The Plan has application before, during, and after a major storm event.
Included in this Plan are the establishment of mutual aid agreements for
assistance in the areas of clean up, damage assessment and reconstruction
activities, among others. The policy which follows attempts to reduce down to
a single policy statement many of the County's most salient policies regarding
reconstruction.
8.5.2(c) State guidelines suggest that a recovery task force be appointed to guide
Establishment of restoration and reconstruction activities during the post emergency phase. This
Recovery Task task force may be active from a period of a few weeks up to one year. The
Force responsibilities of this group typically include:
1. Develop a restoration schedule.
2. Set priorities concerning restoration.
3.Obtain a pre -disaster agreement between the localities and the
County that covers the role of local officials and County officials
during a disaster.
page 8-53

8. Policies For Growth and Development
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.
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 precise
composition of the Task Force may change from time to time, but could include,
for example, 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
For an up to date listing of all members of the Recovery Task Force, the reader
is directed to the official Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan of Brunswick
County.
8.5.2(d) Schedule The staging schedule for the re-establishment of essential services and the
for Staging and reconstruction and repair of properties damaged during a storm event, will
Permitting Repairs depend on the severity of the storm and the damage inflicted. The County will
be working to restore essential services related to the public health safety and
welfare first. Properties suffering minor damage will have building permits
issued as expeditiously as possible. Properties suffering major damage will be
allowed to implement temporary protective measures to protect their property
from further damage, or to correct a public safety problem.
page 8-54

8. Policies For Growth and Development
'
Policy. 8.5.2(d)
Staging: Schedule
For Reconstruction
,.,..and Repair
t
1 ,To deal:withAhe large number of requests for permits after a major
storm, the County shall employ a "building. permit triage" system for
orderly. issuance of u building permits. Criteria for the order of issance
I hall be developed in advance, with the need for modification
acknowled ed based upon the specific circumstancesbeing faced.
2 The Board of, -County, ommissioners may declare a moratorium of -
up to 180 tlays on the permitting of any new construction, including
new utility hookups, 'or, redevelopment construction' that would
increase theintensity of the.land uses existing before the hurricane.
Wit
3rally,,priority'shall be given t
Ice to`critical locations (e.g. h
e repairs that will restore'sery
'able.
ing storm event, the`.County shall
9 service companies to implement
on of public utilities. and services,
Bal with circumstances at hand.
those repairs that will restore
)spital) first and secondarily, to
ce to as many persons as soon as
8.5.2(e) Following a major storm event, damages to public infrastructure may be
Repairs/Replaceme extensive. This may require the replacement and or relocation of roads, water
nt of Public and sewer facilities, and other utilities. This may include the placement of
Infrastructure "wired" utilities, which were previously overhead, to underground locations.
Policy 8.5..2(e)
Public
Infrastructure
Repairs/
Replacement
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
reconfigured by storm impacts. In any event, the provision, extension and
timing of public utilities such as piped water and sewer collection can be an
effective growth management and storm hazard mitigation tool by encouraging
redevelopment to occur on lands better suited for urban level growth.
I(i) Tne county encourages underground installation, replacement and I
storm proofing of public and private utilities and infrastructure.
(2) 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.
page 8-55

8 Policies For Growth and Development
8.6.1 Resource
Protection Policies
8.6.2 Resource
Production and
Management
Policies
8.6 Bald Head Island Policies
The Village of Bald Head Island operates as an incorporated municipality. It
has, however, elected to remain under the general planning authority of the
Brunswick County Land Use Plan for the 1997 Update. (Village officials
anticipate that the island will develop its own CAMA land use plan on or
before the time of the next update cycle.)
Given these circumstances, the Brunswick County Planning Board invited the
Village to prepare its own set of customized policies for inclusion in the County
Land Use Plan. In turn, the Village accepted the invitation and responded
positively with the following policy statements. Please note that these policies
are not intended to have application outside the planning jurisdiction of the
Village of Bald Head Island. In the unlikely event that a County -wide policy
should be interpreted to be in conflict with a Village policy, the Village policy
shall take precedence within the Village of Baldhead Island. The following
policies are as they were submitted by the Town to the County Planning
Board.
TheD.Villa a "of Bald Head Island supports the;"eoncept of"a family
orienieds sland,developed [n.h"armony with nature,Fpromotng
responsible; development:with-respectthe ;environment. "
The Yltagetof Bald Head island supportsstateand federal laws
designed to manageevelopment;iin Ocean Hazard:Areas.of
Environmental Concern, as well as Estuarine �Sfore[ine.Areas of
Environinental:Concern
The Village;,of Bald H11�ead island supports eff" orts"to maintain "a high
IevelY:of water quality m qip er to enhance"fisheries resource, and
recreational value "of;its.:waters
Protection ".of,turtle "nesting areas will continue to be enforced
through recognized ordinances.
page 8-56
I

8. Policies For Growth and Development
8.6.3 Economic and
Community
Development
Policies
BHI .Policy 8.6.3(e)
,B-HI P01rcy. 8 56.3(9)
BHI Policy 8.6.3(h)
Bald.Head>Isiandadvocates a strong local:government that supports
effective'communiy":planning and;apprapriateaand:use controls.
Bald Head°island�will„attempt to"facilitatethe.expanslon of public
services.and faciilt'e to: meet the: needs of; existing"and. future
populations,'as resources allow.
BaidHeadElsland supportsilnnovatve transportation programs related
to improved road -and Watertransportatiorr system` improvements,
including an`enhanced-emergencyaransportation system.
Residential "and commercial development`in accordance with
appilcable sVllage ordinances is encouraged
Bald r.Or.rilplisland,�supports and encourages #he-restoratlon `and/or
appropriate adaptive reuse of significant antl architecturally .important'
hiistonc.and:'cultural structures and...cites:
Bald Head:lsland "supports a :compp, leted "and well-m1.aintained
Infrastructure, lnciudingahe development of;a state of the art solid
waste'coilection.system. ; -;
Bald Head Island supports�regional,.intergovernmental planning `as it
relates t r #ransporiatiop, emergency services; etc. Bald Head Island
encourages l roved regional cooperation covering ail local
government units including Brunswick County area municipalities,
neighboring counties; and -the "State.
Measures tqen1.hance;public safety will be`supported, uch as
regulation "of' golf cart,safety, as; well. as enhanced emergency. medical
service'programs:=Bald'Head island encourages.equitable"application
of county,
ounty resources to all municipalities, specificapiy"emergency'
services such as EMT -paramedic and fire protection.
page 8-57

8 Policies For Growth and Development
8.6.4 Continuing
Public Participation
and Coordination
Policies
8.6.5 Storm Hazard
Mitigation & Post -
Disaster Recovery
Policies
The Village 4f Batd Head island;supports continued public, , -
particpation in Viliagegovernmeint. Every effort will be made to Z
Improve channels of commun[cation to.property owners and residents
to obtain input and ideas at the front-end of the'deciston making
process.
The Vliage,of Baid Head island wall continually pursue methods and
procedures #o minimize the. loss of l,ife,and:propertyduring ,majo
stormevents: This:,inciudes establishment of°an Emergency Mitigation
plan 0 eff,.ectively.plan fotevacuatioNsecurity,.measures, as well as `'
rovide an "orderly°method of post -disaster clean up and recovery.
Bald Head !stand; in cooperation with County and State officials,
continues-toY.explore,,the.safest,,most expedient and efficient
evacuatlon:routes for clttzens.Continued cooperation with
aFpropriate officials to'ensure proper.implementation of emergency
.will be ursded. .
page 8-58

t

9. The Land Classification System
9. The Land Classification System
9.1 Purpose of Land Classification and Relationship to
Policies
The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines require that local governments in the coastal area
classify various parts of their planning jurisdictions in accordance with the desired density,
character of development and extent of service provided for each area of their community. By
delineating land classes on a map, the County can specify where various forms of development
and redevelopment might best occur, and where natural and cultural resources should be
conserved. For example, the Developed class is intended for areas that are already urban in
nature. The Urban Transition class is intended for areas that are expected to become urban
within the next decade. The Rural class is intended for areas that are not expected to become
urban within the next decade —and so forth.
The land 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 general 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.
9.2 Land Classification System of Brunswick County
The basic land classification system (as presented in the State guidelines for land use planning)
includes seven classes: Developed, Utban Transition, Limited Transition, Community, Rural,
Rural with Services, and Conservation. The guidelines allow local governments to subdivide
these classes into more specific sub -classes if they choose. In keeping with this provision,
Brunswick County has elected to create several sub -classes which are outlined in detail below.
9.3 Land Classification Map
The land classification map is provided at the back of this document.
9.4 Land Classification Areas Described
DEVELOPED —NOT IN PLANNING AREA
The purpose of the Developed class is to provide for continued intensive development and
redevelopment of existing cities, towns and their urban environs. In the case of unincorporated
Brunswick County, no Developed areas are designated on the map. Rather, these areas are
more properly reserved to the more densely developed and serviced incorporated municipalities
of the County. With two exceptions (Bald Head Island, Sandy Creek), 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.
TRANSITION AREAS
The purpose of the Transition class is to provide for future development on lands that are
suitable and that will be provided with the necessary urban services to support such
development. Urban services normally include water, sewer, streets and roads, police and fire
protection that will be made available at the time development occurs or soon thereafter. Areas
meeting the intent of the Transition class are presently being developed or will be developed in
the next five to ten years to accommodate anticipated growth. Most of these areas are in, or will
page 9-1

9. The Land Classification System
be in a "transitional" state of development, going from lower intensity uses to higher intensity
uses and, as such, will eventually require urban services. For the Brunswick County Land Use
' Plan, several sub -categories within the Transition Classification have been proposed as follows:
Area of Town and Village Clusters
The Area of Town and Village Clusters has been applied to those parts of the unincorporated
area where: (1) authorization for regional sewer service is already in place or (2) where initiatives
are underway which have a significant probability of establishing authority for regional sewer
service within the next five years and where: (3) county water service is already in place or
planned to be in place 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.
' It is important to note that the intent of this land classification is not to blanket the landscape with
suburban sprawl style development, but rather to encourage new developments to occur in
Town or Village like patterns, with certain retail services designed into the Town or Village cluster.
' The intent is to discourage unnecessary increases in traffic volumes on the County's few main
roads by encouraging residents to shop for their basic needs closer to home, perhaps within
walking or biking distance. At the same time, the compact nature of these clusters, typically
involving smaller lots, is intended to allow for the allocation of permanent open space around and
' between such clusters. This development pattern is entirely consistent with the desires of
County residents to preserve open space and the rural character of much of Brunswick County,
while allowing growth to occur in a managed way.
' Highway -Oriented Services
Areas designated for Highway -Oriented Services are intended to acknowledge the strong
pressures for commercial development along some sections of the County's main roadways.
' While the County would prefer to see such commercial development locate in the incorporated
municipalities where services can be provided, the County also recognizes that a certain amount
of highway oriented commercial development is inevitable. However, rather than allowing "strip
commercial development" to occur unabated along the County's roadways, the Highway -
Oriented Services classification has been created to limit such areas to designated roadway
sections. Finally, the County anticipates the need to enact special development standards for
highway oriented commercial services, including signage standards, landscaping and tree
preservation, limits on driveway cuts, possible frontage road or rear access roads, etc.
' Industrial Areas
The purpose of the Industrial land class is to accommodate and encourage industrial development
on appropriate sites within specially designated land areas. Lands designated for the 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.
' The 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 and/or rail
service. Existing and planned highway access is also good, particularly with regard to the
industrial area north of Navassa. The planned addition of a US 17 Bypass entering Brunswick
County near this location will provide convenient access to multiple US and NC highways. This
area was also noted in the 1997 Cape Fear River Corridor Plan as being particularly appropriate
for industrial development.
Existing industries located within the industrialized areas of the Cape Fear River Corridor include,
for example, Dupont, the Sunny Point Military Terminal, the Archer Daniels Midland Plant, the
CP&L 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 may seek to employ the Industrial class in the future as may be
advantageous to recruit new industry to other appropriate locations within the broader Rural land
area.
' page 9-2

9 The Land Classification System
Military Reservation
The purpose of the Military Reservation land class is to accommodate the needs of the Sunny
Point Military Ocean Terminal. As part of the Land Use Plan policies, the County suggests the
need for advanced planning for the on -going evolution of the mission of the terminal in the coming
decades. This may involve contingency planning in cooperation with the Department of Defense.
COMMUNITY AREAS
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 so designated, they will appear as small circular areas on the County's
land classification map. This is not to imply that future development shall conform to a circular
shape. While future community level development may center on this location, it is recognized that
soil limitations, floodprone areas, or other factors may influence the eventual development form of
the community. Thus, 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 and provide a local social sense of a
u n
community . Very limited municipal -type services, such as fire protection and community water,
may be available, but municipal type sewer systems are not usually available.
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: Sandy Creek (incorporated), Maco, Clarendon, Bell Swamp/Winnabow, Mill
Creek, Piney Grove, Kingtown, Ash/Waccamaw, Longwood, Gdssettown, and Hickman's
Crossroads.
RURAL AREAS
The Rural class is to provide for agriculture, forestry, 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. Areas meeting the intent of this
classification are appropriate for or presently used for agriculture, forestry, and other similar uses.
Population densities are generally very low. 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.
CONSERVATION AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AREAS
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 a very limited manner characterized by careful
planning and cautious attention to the conservation of environmental features.
Urban services, public or private, should not be provided in these areas as a catalyst to
stimulate intense development. In most cases, 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.
page 9-3

9. The Land Classification System
IFor Brunswick County, the Conservation class includes:
1. Areas of Environmental Concern, as defined in 15A NCAC 7H and as further
'
summarized in Policy Section 8.1 of the Land Use Plan,
2. Wetland areas under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers' 404 wetlands
Permit Program and as generally identified as a freshwater woody wetland by the
National Wetlands Inventory of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
'
3. Certain critical wildlife habitat areas as may be designated by the State Natural
Heritage Program and approved by the County Commissioners for inclusion in this
class.
4.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, and swamp forests containing significant productive, natural,
scenic, cultural or recreational resources, and as may be approved by the County
'
Commissioners for inclusion in this class.
Mapping of AEC's, 404 wetlands, and critical habit areas in the Conservation class is
accomplished with the understanding that these areas are more accurately defined in their
respective management olicies and plans. 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 shall be applied in accordance with the
site specific information made available during the land development process.
As part of the Conservation Class the County wishes to go on record that in no instances, shall
the Conservation classification as shown on the land classification map be employed to
automatically "trigger" special environmental reviews or wetlands inventories for proposed
developments.. Rather, the need for such reviews should be determined on a case by case
basis depending on the nature of the site specific situation.
page 9-4

10. Intergovernmental Coordination

r-
LJ
10. Intergovemmental Coordination and Municipal Land Use Plans
10. Intergovernmental Coordination and
1 Municipal Land Use Plans
' I 10.1 Uses of the Land Use Plan
' The Brunswick County Land Use Plan, including the policies for growth and development and the
land classification map, will serve to 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 govemmenst 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 and regional plans
and studies, such as the NC DOT Transportation Improvement Program, and drafts of the
Cape Fear River Corridor Plan, were reviewed. State representatives involved in population
projections, marine fisheries, and water quality monitoring were also consulted. Further, within
Brunswick County government, representatives of many county department and functions were
consulted and noted in the appropriate sections of the plan.
Finally, the report entiltled: Second Bridge to Oak Island, Corridor Land Use and
Development Plan, shall be made a part of this land use plan and incorporated by reference
' upon its adoption.
' 10.2 Coordination with Other Governmental Jurisdictions
Within Brunswick County there are eighteen incorporated municipalities; having more towns than
any other county in North Carolina. These towns are scattered over a broad geographic area,
given that Brunswick County is the seventh largest county of the State's one hundred counties.
There are also three utility districts, one doing zoning, and numerous special purpose districts or
functions. Observers often note the difficulty in reaching consensus among so many fragmented
political/goveming jurisdictions.
The challenges inherent in accomplishing necessary change in such an environment came to the
forefront during development of the Brunswick County Long Range Plan, adopted in 1996.
' 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. The land uses plans of
these various municipalities can be instrumental in sharing information about existing conditions in
' each local government jurisdiction, as well as in discussing plans for the future.
t
page 10-1
1

10 lntergovemmental Coordination and Municipal Land Use Plans
10.3 Municipal Land Use Plans
Of the eighteen towns in the County, sixteen have prepared or are 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
Northwest
Ocean Isle Beach
Shallotte
Southport
Sunset Beach
Vamumtown
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 two remaining municipal governments in Brunswick County, not having their own
independent land use plans are the Village of Bald Head Island and the Town of Sandy Creek.
For CAMA land use planning purposes, Bald Head Island is shown on the County's land
classification map in the Transition land class. Bald Head Island's policies are also included as a
special section within the Policies chapter of this plan. Sandy Creek, on the other hand, has been
designated as a Community in the County's land classification system; the general policies of the
County as applied to the Community class shall govern within the corporate limits of the Town of
Sandy Creek.
In both 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.
page 10-2

11. Public Participation
11

11 Summary Of Public Participation
11. Summary Of Public Participation
11.1 Public Participation Plan
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. 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:
11.2 Public Involvement Process
1. Strategy Development/ Public Participation Plan
The first priority in carrying out the public participation strategy for the Land Use Plan was to meet
with key local officials to discuss and receive approval of the planning process for citizen
involvement. During this phase, the planning consultant, the County Staff, the Planning Board
and the County Commissioners each had a constructive role in preparing, reviewing, and
approving the proposed planning and public involvement strategy. Also, State concerns,
suggestions, and requirements for the planning process were conveyed to the County staff and
elected and appointed officials during a special presentation by a representative of the Division
of Coastal Management at the County Government complex in Bolivia.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
December 18, 1996
February 3, 1996
County Planning Board
Board of County Commissioners
page 11- 1

1
11. Summary Of Public Participation
2. Issue Identification by the Public
Issue identification for the Brunswick County Land Use Plan consisted of a series of seven public
meetings held at strategic 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 hosted by one member of the Planning Board. Special
meeting announcements were prepared and efforts were made to distribute them widely within
the community. Copies of the announcement were published in local newspapers.
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.
' Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
February 10, 1997 Public Input Meeting No. 1 Waccamaw Community Building
' February 11, 1997 Public Input Meeting No. 2 Sunset Beach Town Hall
February 12, 1997 Public Input Meeting No. 3 Lockwood Folly Community Building
' February 13, 1997 Public Input Meeting No. 4 Town Creek Community Building
February 17, 1997 Public Input Meeting No. 5 CP&L Visitors Center
' February 18, 1997 Public Input Meeting No. 6 Leland Community Building
February 20, 1997 Public Input Meeting No. 7 Shallotte Point VFD
3. Discussion of Public Input
' After the entire series of meetings was completed, all growth issues identified by the public were
typed up 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 and County Commissioners 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:
Wednesday, April 2, 1997 Discuss public input with County Planning
Board
' Wednesday, June 4, 1997 Discuss public input in a joint meeting of the
County Planning Board and County
Commissioners
' 4. Plan and Policy Development Work Sessions
With the results of the initial public input in hand, and with notes from the discussion at the joint
' Planning Board and County Commissioners meeting, the consulting planner, working closely with
the County planning staff, prepared a draft set of Growth Policies. These draft policies were
printed alongside the County's existing policies to allow for comparison of the new with the old.
Two special work sessions were then held with the Planning Board to review the entire set of
existing and proposed County policies, and to better understand the way in which the policies
interrelate. These work sessions were most beneficial in identifying policies in need of further
work.
' page 11- 2

11. Summary Of Public Participation
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
Wednesday, July 30, 1997
Wednesday August 6, 1997
County Planning Board Work Session
County Planning Board Work Session
5. Public Open House on Draft Policies and Land Classification System
Once a set of draft land use policies were in place, the Planning Board hosted an open public
meeting at the County Government Complex in Bolivia to receive public input and comment on
the work to date. To facilitate efficient and equitable input from the public, the draft policies were
enlarged on poster sized sheets and arranged on the walls of the meeting room in a "walk -around
questionnaire" format. The public was then invited to circulate around the room expressing their
level of agreement or disagreement with each policy statement as well as being able to provide
additional written comments on the sheets. Also, Planning Board members were available in the
room to allow for informal discussions regarding the various policies, or to clarify technical terms or
issues. This meeting was well attended and quite productive.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
Wednesday, August 20 1997
Open House on the Policies and Land
Classification Map
6. Completion of Draft Land Use Plan for Planning Board Review
After the Open House on the draft policies and map was completed, explanatory narrative was
prepared as background for each policy section of the plan, and incorporated into a complete draft
of plan, combining all sections prepared to date. In keeping with the data collection and analysis
requirements of the CAMA land use planning guidelines, the final growth factors analysis was
also included in this draft for review by the Planning Board.
With regard to the growth factors analysis in particular, 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.
The Planning Board then reviewed the fully narrated policy sections of the plan during a special
meeting of the Board. As each proposed policy statement, along with its explanatory text, was
reviewed, suggested changes were recorded for inclusion in the final draft to the State.
Following the completion of the review meetings by the Planning Board, a revised, completed
draft of the growth factors analysis, policies, text and map was prepared in accordance with the
directives and comments of the Planning Board.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
Wednesday, October 1, 1997 County Planning Board
Monday, October 27, 1997 County Planning Board
Wednesday, November 5, 1997 County Planning Board
page 11- 3
Work Session on Growth Factors
Analysis
Work Session on Policies and Land
Classification Map
Work Session on Policies and Land
Classification Map

11. Summary Of Public Participation
7. State Review and Comment/ Prepare Revisions As Appropriate
' Following additional revisions to the plan in accordance with directives received from the Planning
Board, the plan was sent to the State CAMA program staff for review and comment in November,
1997. Comments were received from the State in February, 1998. The consulting planner then
prepared suggested revisions to the Plan for review by the Planning Board. The Planning Board
approved the changes and suggested additional changes at a meeting held on April 1, 1998.
The Board of County Commissioners and the Planning Board, at a joint meeting held on May 18,
1998, then reviewed and approved all revisions as authorized by the planning Board. Additional
' revisions were also discussed and authorized by the County Commissioners at the same
meeting.
' At a regular meeting on July 6, 1998, the County Commissioners set a date for a formal public
hearing on the land use plan, as required, no less than 30 days hence. The public hearing was
set for August 17, 1998.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
Wednesday, April 1, 1998 County Planning Board Meeting to approve changes
' Monday, May 18, 1998 County Commissioners Meeting to approve
and Planning Board changes and discuss date for hearing
' Monday, July 6, 1998 County Commissioners Established date for public hearing
8. County Commissioners Hearing/Adoption of Plan (Formal Public HearingNote)
The County Commissioners held a formal public hearing on August 17, 1998 to present the plan
for a final time for public review and comment. Notice of the meeting was in accordance with
requirements for public hearings for the local adoption of CAMA Land Use Plans, as well as the
County's normal protocol. Following receipt of comments from the public, the County
' Commissioners authorized two minor changes (pages 8-25 and 12-6) and remanded the plan
back to the Planning Board for consideration of other comments received.
1
The Planning Board determined that no other changes were needed and recommended the plan
as revised to the County Commissioners. On October 5, 1998, the County Commissioners, at
their regular meeting voted to adopt the plan. The plan was then submitted to the Coastal
Resources Commission for certification by that body.
Public Meetings Held During This Phase:
Monday, August 17, 1998 County Commissioners Public hearing to consider adoption of
the plan
Wednesday, September 2, 1998 County Planning Board Meeting to review public comments
Monday, October 5, 1998 County Commissioners Voted to adopt the plan
9. Coastal Resources Commission Certification
The officially adopted Brunswick County Land Use Plan was submitted to the North Carolina Coastal
Resources Commission for certification by that body at their regular meeting on
1998.
page 11- 4

1
19 Appendices
1
12. Appendices
12.1 Evaluation of Effectiveness of Previous Land Use Plan
' Evaluation of past five years.
' At the time that the last land use plan was being prepared, community leaders were in the midst of pursing
development of a first ever zoning ordinance for the unincorporated areas of Brunswick County. An
ordinance and related zoning maps were adopted in the fall of 1993 and went into effect on January 1, 1994.
The adoption and implementation of the ordinance occurred over a relatively short period of time— about six
' months.
During this timeframe over 70,000 parcels of land were zoned for the first time. Of the time spent, about half
was employed in the actual development of the ordinance while the remaining three months were used for
1 public review and comment. By most local government standards, this is an extraordinarily brief period of
time to develop such a wide-ranging local ordinance. Still, the County Commissioners at the time believed
that the unincorporated parts of the County were long overdue for zoning, and with the continued rapid
growth of the area, felt a certain urgency to act with decisiveness.
1 Since the enactment of the zoning ordinance the County planning staff and planning board have spent
considerable time "debugging ° the ordinance; that is, reexamining the specific language of certain sections,
1 adding needed provisions, etc. This is normal procedure with any zoning law, but especially during the first
couple years after a new ordinance goes into effect. At the same time, the high level of attention given to the
zoning situation over the past several years has left little time for the staff and planning board to undertake
many of the implementation actions identified in the 1992 update. Further, the last two years have seen
1 considerable turnover at both the planning staff and planning board level. Meanwhile, the County continues
to grow at an extraordinary rate.
Outlook for next five years.
' Despite all of the above developments, the County planning function has continued to perform its basic
duties during these challenging times. It is hoped that over the next five year period, the current staff and
planning board will be able to devote more attention to the relationship between the County land use plan
1 and the zoning ordinance, as well as water, sewer, and transportation infrastructure. This will mean re-
examining the County's zoning maps in light of the land use plan, and relying more heavily upon the policy
statements of the land use plan in evaluating individual zoning petitions and development proposals. It will
' also mean working to coordinate the policies of the land use plan with the water and sewer initiatives moving
forward in several parts of the County.
12.2 Sources and Locations of Additional Information
1 To find out more about various aspects of land use and development in Brunswick County, the interested
citizen is invited to visit the County Planning Department at the County government complex in Bolivia
' where a variety of studies, plans, maps, aerial photographs and booklets are maintained on file.
12.3 Action Agenda for the Brunswick County Land Use Plan
1 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 County's development policies. 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 (tentatively scheduled for 2002).
1
page 12-1

12. Appendices
Implementation actions are designed to suggest possible courses of action available to the County to carry
out the Policies. In some instances, a single Implementation action may be listed in support of more than one
policy. In other instances, where the County is already implementing a policy, an on -going program of
implementation may be mentioned. In still others, a particular policy may not warrant or require a specific
implementation action to be effective.
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 text of the plan), these actions can be updated and re-inserted into
the document on a regular basis.
Policy Area
Implementation Action(s)
8.0 General Vision Policy for the Next Ten Years
We, the residents, businesses, and property owners of
The County staff, Planning Board, and Board of
Brunswick County shall seek to preserve and enhance our
County Commissioners shall employ the
natural and human resources, and will plan for and
policies contained in this land use plan on a
accommodate future growth while simultaneously maintaining
routine basis in evaluating development
and improving the quality of life for current and future
proposals and other matters concerning land
residents.
use.
8.1.0 Resource Protection Policies
The natural and scenic resources of Brunswick County enable
See specific Implementation Actions listed
many business owners and employees to earn a livelihood,
below as they pertain to specific policy issues.
residents to have a high quality of life, and visitors to enjoy
the many attractive features of the area. Brunswick County,
through its policies and actions, shall not support or approve
any action which would significantly jeopardize the long term
viability of our natural and scenic resources.
8.1.1 Constraints To Development: Soils, Septic Tank Suitability, Flooding
Policy 8.1.1 a
Development is encouraged to locate in areas without soil
(1) Ongoing efforts to incorporate U.S. Soil
suitability problems and where infrastructure is available. In
Conservation Service detailed soil
areas where suitability problems exist, engineering solutions
classification maps into the County's
are supported to the extent that the natural environment Is not
geographic information system (GIS) will
compromised.
continue.
(2) Plans to produce detailed topographic
mapping (2' contour intervals) in the County's
GIS will continue.
Policy 8.1.1 b
In the absence of sewer facilities, the County shall work
The County Health Department will continue to
cooperatively with property owners to evaluate site suitability
implement internal procedures to make the
for septic tank use. When soil conditions are such that, In the
review and approval process for septic tank
opinion of County sanitarians, health or environmental
permits more customer service oriented.
standards would be compromised, full explanation of the
reasons for denial shall be given, and alternatives for possible
solutions provided.
Policy 8.1.1 c
Brunswick County supports the administration and
(1) The County will continue to enforce the local
enforcement of applicable flood plain management regulations
flood damage prevention ordinance.
and the national flood insurance program.
(2) Efforts to disseminate flood insurance rate
maps to Realtors, developers, financial
institutions, and insurance agencies will
continue.
(3) Efforts by the'Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) to update the
County's flood insurance rate maps will be
page 12-2

12. Appendices
encouraged and supported. Upon completion,
such mapping should be incorporated into the
County's GIS system.
8.1.2 Areas of Environmental Concern
Brunswick County will support and enforce, through its local
(1) The County's commitment to the protection
CAMA permitting capacity, the State policies and permitted
of coastal wetland AEC's will continue through
uses In the Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's). Such
County financial and staff support for the minor
uses shall be in accord with the general use standards for
CAMA permit program.
coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, public trust areas and
ocean hazard areas as stated in 15A NCAC Subchapter 7H.
(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.
8.1.2 a Coastal Wetland AEC's
Policy 8.1.2 a
Due to the critical role that wetlands play in protecting the
quality of estuarine waters and in providing habitat for fish and
wildlife, Brunswick County strongly supports the efforts of
State and Federal agencies to properly designate and preserve
coastal wetlands. Such preservation 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.
8.1.2 b Estuarine Water AEC's
Policy 8.1.2 b
Developments and mitigation activities which support and
(1) The County will continue to support and
enhance the natural function, cleanliness, salinity, and
improve upon existing regulations dealing with
circulation of estuarine water resources shall be supported.
runoff from proposed development. This shall
include modifications to the County subdivision
regulations, and recommendations forthcoming
for the County Commissioner appointed
Sanitary Sewer and Stormwater Management
Committee.
(2) 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.
(3) 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 shall review the Cape Fear River
Corridor study with the intent of implementing as
many recommendations as can be deemed
feasible by County decision -makers.
(5) The County will continue to press for action
in Congress or elsewhere, to approve funding
for studies and dredging to reopen the eastern
channel of the Lockwood Folly River.
(6) The County shall pursue implementation of a
natural buffer program adjacent to all streams
and drains ewa s in the County.
page 12-3

12. Appendices
8.1.2 c Public Trust Waters AEC's
Policy 8.1.2 c
The community's need for piers and docks, whether publicly or
(1) The County will support implementation of
privately owned, shall be tempered by the rights of the public
newly revised State standards concerning pier
for the free and open use of public trust waters for navigation,
length and obstruction of shallow -water
shell fishing, and other uses. Efforts of State and Federal
navigation in the county's public trust waters.
agencies to limit the length of docks and piers as they project
Into estuarine waters are especially supported.
(2) The County shall update the 1990 Shoreline
Access Plan during the next five year period.
8.1.2 d Estuarine Shoreline AEC's
Policy 8.1.2 d
Brunswick County supports the protection and preservation of
(1) The County will consider the creation of a
Its estuarine shorelines, as enforced through the application
shoreline overlay district as part of an overall
of CAMA use standards.
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. In developing such requirements,
guidance shall be sought from the County's
Sanitary Sewer and Stormwater Management
Committee.
8.1.2 a Ocean Hazard Area AEC's
Policy 8.1.2 e
Brunswick County supports state and federal standards for the
(1) The County will continue to support proper
management of development in the ocean hazard AECs under
enforcement of applicable CAMA regulations for
the County's planning jurisdiction: the Baptist assembly
ocean hazard area AEC's.
rounds and part of Bird Island.
8.1.2 f Public Water Supply AEC's
Policy 8.1.2 f
Brunswick County supports the designation of Public Water
(1) Brunswick County shall continue to be an
Supply AEC's when such designation meets State
active participant in meetings of the NC
prerequisites and when such action Is deemed necessary to
Coastal Resources Commission to stay
ensure the long term viability of the County's public water
abreast of opportunities available at the
supplies.
County and State level to protect critical
resources through the AEC component of the
State coastal management program.
8.1.2 Natural and Cultural Resource AEC's
Policy 8.1.2
Brunswick County supports the selective designation of
(1) In keeping with the implementation action
appropriate areas as natural and cultural resource AEC's
immediately above, the County supports
(Coastal Complex Natural Areas, Coastal Areas that Sustain
appropriate State studies to examine areas
Remnant Species, Unique Geologic Formations, Significant
within Brunswick County for possible AEC
Coastal Archaeological Resources and Significant Coastal
designation.
Historical Architectural Resources).
8.1.2 h Wildlife Protection
Policy 8.1.2 h
The abundance and diversity of wildlife in Brunswick County
shall be preserved and enhanced through protection of the
unique coastal ecosystems, including marshes, woodlands,
open fields and other areas upon which they depend.
8.1.3 Wetlands of Highest Functional Significance
(Awaiting development of mapped information by the State
8.1.4 Other Hazardous or Fragile Land Areas
8.1.4 a Freshwater Swamps, Marshes, Pocosins, and 404 Wetlands
Policy 8.1.4 a
Brunswick County will continue to support the efforts of the
(1) In the absence of AEC designation, the
CAMA program and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 404
County supports efforts of the North Carolina
permitting program to preserve and protect sensitive fresh
Wildlife Resources Commission to identify and
water swamp and marsh areas.
designate critical fiabitat areas within the
county, provided that opportunities for local
study and evaluation are included.
page 12-4

12. Appendices
8.1.4 b Maritime Forests
Policy 8.1.4 b
Maritime forests In Brunswick County shall receive a high level
(1) The County will include tree preservation in
of environmental protection when considering public and
the on -going revisions to the County's
private sector uses. When development is considered,
subdivision ordinance, particularly regarding
preferred usage shall be for low Intensity or clustered
open space provisions. Consideration shall be
development forms, which preserve the majority of forest
given to a means of addressing outstanding
cover. (See also Policy 8.3.18 Tree cover and Landscaping)
and historic trees, including but not limited to
significant live oaks and maritime forest.
8.1.4. c Outstanding Resource Waters ORW
Policy 8.1.4 c
Brunswick County supports State and local efforts to restore
(1) Regardless of whether ORW designation is
the water quality of the Lockwood Folly River, as well as other
accomplished, the County will consider creating
estuarine waters in the county, to a water quality level
a special shoreline overlay district within the
deserving of ORW designation.
County's overall zoning ordinance to protect
and restore, to the extent possible, water
quality in the county's estuarine waters.
(2) The County will continue to press for action
in Congress or elsewhere, to approve funding
for studies and dredging necessary to reopen
the eastern channel of the Lockwood Folly
River.
8.1.4 d Shelifishing Waters
Policy 8.1.4 d
The County supports and encourages the activities of the
State's Shellfish Management Program. The County shall
continue to promote estuarine water quality through its
stormwater management planning and stormwater runoff
policies. See Section 8.1.7
8.1.4 a Water Supply Areas/Other Waters With Special Values
Policy 8.1.4 e
The county's ground water resources, including but not limited
(1) Demands on the county's groundwater
to the Castle Hayne aquifer, shall be recognized as an
resources will be relieved through continued
invaluable source of public and private potable water and shall
expansion of the county -wide water system,
receive the highest level of protection when considering
including the feasibility of tapping into the Pee
County policies, standards and actions, including the possible
Dee aquifer, or drawing water from surface
creation of a special overlay district.
water sources in addition to the Cape Fear
River.
(2) In keeping with the recommendations
contained in the Aquifer Sensitivity Study
recently completed by hydrogeologist Ralph
Heath (See Section 8.1.5), the County shall
take appropriate measures to ensure the long
term protection of the County's critical
groundwater resources.
(3) The County shall inquire of state coastal
management officials as to the feasibility of
designating the 211 groundwater treatment
plant wells as AEC's.
8.1.4 f Cultural and Historic Resources
Policy 8.1.3 f
Brunswick County encourages efforts to protect cultural and
(1) Brunswick County will encourage the State
historic resources to preserve their cultural, educational and
to update the current list of cultural and
aesthetic values and qualities.
historic resources in Brunswick County.
8.1.4 Manmade Hazards
Policy 8.1.3
Brunswick County will seek to minimize potential land use
(1) Brunswick County will continue to provide
conflicts and hazards related to development in areas near
staff assistance in support of air space zoning
existing, potentially hazardous facilities.
for the Brunswick County Airport, in keeping
with the wishes of the jurisdiction within which
the airport falls, the Southeast Sanitary District.
page 12-5

12. Appendices
8.1.4 h Hazardous Materials and Events
Policy 8.1.4 h
Plans for the safe transportation of hazardous materials, for
The County shall continue to encourage the
the prevention and clean-up of spills of toxic materials, and for
development of emergency response plans for
the evacuation of area residents in response to hazardous
specific industries in the area. All such plans
events, shall be supported.
should be fully coordinated with the County's
emergency management function.
Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Covered under Section 8.5
8.1.5 Protection of Potable Water Supply
Policy 8.1.5 a
Brunswick County supports federal, state and local efforts to
(1) Brunswick County will encourage State
protect the quantity and quality of water In the Cape Fear
efforts to prepare targeted studies and
River, whether such protection involves controls over point
effective policies on water allocation, inter -
source discharges, surface runoff, inter basin water transfers,
basin transfers, water quality impacts, etc. as
or other appropriate means, Including upstream activities.
these issues affect the Cape Fear River.
(2) The County shall generally support
initiatives in the General Assembly to reduce
levels of pollutants and nutrient loading in the
Cape Fear River. Support for specific
measures shall be based upon the rationality
and logic of each proposal.
Policy 8.1.5 b
Brunswick County supports federal, state and local efforts to
(1) The County shall take appropriate
protect the quantity and quality of water in the region's
measures to ensure the long term protection of
groundwater system, whether such protection involves
the County's critical groundwater resources,
controls over the location and management of activities
consistent with the recommendations set forth
involving hazardous substances, restrictions on groundwater
in the groundwater management and
drawdowns, or any other activity which would jeopardize the
conservation study prepared by
short and long term viability of groundwater resources.
hydrogeologist Ralph Heath.
(2) The County shall conduct a study of the
quality of groundwater in the County, based on
available groundwater information related to
existing well sites and known data, with one of
the objectives being to create the mapping
necessary to support an aquifer protection
overlay.
Policy 8.1.5 c
Brunswick County will continue improvements to and expansion
(1) The County shall continue with
of the County's potable, piped water supply system, with
appropriately tailored engineering studies to
emphasis on the development of a self supporting operation,
accurately model the County's existing
where costs are assigned in relative proportion to the benefits
system, with an eye toward maximizing
conveyed.
efficiencies and costs -.The feasibility of water
districts shall continue to be explored.
Policy 8.1.5 d
So as to facilitate the orderly development of the County water
(1) The County shall promulgate clear, written
system, Brunswick County shall establish and maintain utility
policies regarding water system extensions
extension and tap -on policies designed to address the timing,
and tap on policies.
location riorities and" sequence, etc. of system expansion.
8.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants
Policy 8.1.6
Brunswick County advocates the development and use of
(1) The County shall continue to partner with
regional sewage treatment plants over smaller, privately
area utility districts to encourage the proper
operated package sewage treatment plants. When package
development of regional sewer systems.
treatment plants are employed, they should be designed to
(2) The County shall encourage the State to
allow for future connections to a larger regional system.
enforce strict compliance in the operation of
package treatment plants.
8.1.7 Stormwater Runoff
Policy 8.1.7 a
Brunswick County shall take a proactive role in the
(1) The County will continue to improve upon
development of storm water management and design standards
regulations dealing with runoff from proposed
Intended to protect the quality of the county's streams, rivers,
development. Included shall be modifications to
marshes and estuarine systems.
the subdivision regulations, and
recommendations from the County's Sanitary
Sewer and Stormwater Management Committee.
page 12-6

12. Appendices
7
L
I
Policy 8.1.7 b
Brunswick County shall support a program of vegetated buffers
(1) The County shall pursue implementation of
adjacent to all streams, rivers, marshes and estuarine waters
a natural buffer program adjacent to all
In the county, with the intent of reducing the flow of nutrients
streams and drainageways in the County. The
and other contaminants into area surface waters.
County will look into the availability of funding
available through the Clean Water
Management Trust Fund of the State of North
Carolina. The contact is David McNaught who
may be reached at [phone].
(2) The County will call upon the NC DOT 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.
(3) 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 limits on the type of
land uses allowed within the overlay district.
Policy 8.1.7 c
Brunswick County shall advocate a policy of stormwater runoff
(1) The County will continue to support and
management in which post -development runoff has a rate of
improve upon existing regulations dealing with
flow and volume which approximates, as closely as practical,
runoff from proposed development. This shall
pre -development conditions.
include modifications to the County
subdivision regulations, and recommendations'
forthcoming for the County's Sanitary Sewer
and Stormwater Management Committee.
8.1.8 a Marinas
Policy 8.1.8 a
As a means of providing public access to area surface waters,
(2) The County shall update the 1990 Shoreline
Brunswick County encourages environmentally responsible
Access Plan during the next five year period.
marina development in accordance with State CAMA standards
The update will incorporate marina
for AEC's. Marina facilities also shall be evaluated for site
development and a water use plan.
specific compatibility with surrounding land uses, as well as
for aesthetic concerns, parking, access, and available
services.
8.1.8 b Floating Home Development
Polcy 8.1.8 b
Brunswick County discourages floating home development
The County shall implement specific zoning
anywhere In the waterways, public trust waters, and along the
standards to discourage or prohibit floating
shorelines of the county, so as to prevent the unwanted
homes from locating in the County's public
"consumption" of the county's limited estuarine surface
trust waters. In doing so, the County will study
waters.
other coastal counties such as Carteret
County and New Hanover County for examples
of appropriate local regulations and standards.
8.1.8 c Moorings and Mooring Fields
Policy 8.1.8 c
The desirability of freestanding moorings and mooring fields
shall be evaluated on a case by case basis in accordance with
CAMA development policies and standards. The unimpeded use
of and navigation within public trust surface waters by the
boating public shall be of concern.
8.1.8 d Dry Stack Storage
Policy 8.1.8 d
To minimize "consumption" of valuable public trust surface
waters, dry stack storage marinas generally shall be preferred
over wetslip marinas. Dry stack storage facilities shall be
evaluated for site specific compatibility with surrounding land
uses, as well as for aesthetic concerns, parking, access, and
available services.
page 12-7

12. Appendices I
8.1.8 a Commercial Fishing Operations
Policy 8.1.8 e
Due to the Important role of commercial and recreational
fishing the economy and cultural heritage of Brunswick
.to
County, the County shall encourage and support commercial
fishing operations and sports fishing operations, provided that
such operations meet all applicable development standards
and are otherwise consistent with the policies of area local
governments.
8.1.9 Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
Policy 8.1.9
Industries shall be encouraged to locate in suitable, non-
(1) The County will implement and enforce
fragile areas. Environmental impacts on air, land and water
resources, as well as compatibility with surrounding land uses
and the availability of required services, shall be factors
industrial performance standards in the zoning
ordinance.
employed In evaluating the merits of any particular industrial
(2) The land classification map and zoning
development proposal.
ordinance will identify areas particularly suitable
for industrial development.
8.1.10 Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands
Policy 8.1.10
Development of sound and estuarine system Islands, while not
(1) The County will continually work to improve
encouraged, Is permitted, provided that impacts on the natural
its subdivision and zoning regulations to
environment are properly mitigated. If such Islands must be
provide for proper environmental protection and
developed, low Intensity uses such as open space, recreation,
development on sensitive estuarine system
and very low density residential shall be the preferred uses.
islands.
When such islands are deemed to have greater than local
significance, the County encourages the State or Federal gov't
to purchase these environmentally sensitive areas for the
benefit of all residents of the State.
8.1.11 Development Within Areas That Might be Susceptible to Sea Level Rise
or Shoreline Erosion
Policy 8.1.11
Development within areas susceptible to sea level rise,
(1) The County will continue to enforce the flood
shoreline erosion, and/or wetland loss, should take into
protection ordinance as a means of ensuring
consideration such conditions upon initial development. In the
that new development in low-lying areas is
event such development is later threatened by shoreline loss,
consistent with the limitations of the land.
the County shall support the AEC use standards governing
shoreline protection and management. The County will not
(2) The County will continue to support CAMA
permit efforts to harden the shoreline In an attempt to
standards for Ocean Hazard AEC's and Inlet
counteract such conditions; however, this policy shall not
Areas, to the extent that the County has
preclude the use of innovative shoreline preservation
jurisdiction.
techniques .as approved by the Coastal Resources
Commission.
8.1.12 Upland Excavation for Marina Basins
Policy 8.1.12
Brunswick County supports the development of marina basins
(1) The County will continue to support CAMA
In upland sites in accordance with CAMA standards. Marina
standards for the development of marinas in
basins also shall be evaluated for site specific compatibility
upland locations.
with surrounding land uses, as well as for aesthetic concerns,
parking, access and available services.
8.1.13 Marsh Damage from Bulkhead Installation
Policy 8.1.13
Brunswick County supports state and federal standards which
(1) Brunswick County will continue to support
seek to prevent or minimize marsh damage from bulkhead or rip
State and Federal standards for
rap installation. The County recognizes, however, that some
limited marsh damage may be necessary to provide for
environmentally sensitive bulkhead
installations.
otherwise environmentally sound development.
CI
. I
page 12-8
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12. Appendices
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8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management Measures
Policy 8.1.14
Brunswick County shall encourage and support State and
Federal standards which seek to prevent or minimize adverse
See implementation actions under Sections
8.1.5 through 8.1.7, especially.
water quality impacts. The County shall work proactively with
the State on measures to reduce stormwater runoff rates, soil
erosion and sedimentation, and point source discharges into
area waters.
8.1.15 AirQuality
Policy 8.1.15
Brunswick County shall encourage and support State and
Federal standards which seek to prevent or minimize adverse
air quality Impacts. The County shall work constructively with
State and Federal Agencies and local industries on measures
to reduce or eliminate air quality problems, including odor
(1) Brunswick County shall intervene as
necessary on behalf of County residents who
may be affected by inadequate air quality
controls. Such intervention may range from
informal discussions with local industries to
problems that may not fall under prescribed environmental
standards.
more rigorous communications with industry or
State environmental officials.
8.2. Resource Production and Management Policies
8.2.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Production and
Management
Brunswick County Is one of the most biologically diverse areas
in the State of North Carolina. The County shall take no action
nor approve of any action which would seriously or irreparably
harm the long term bio-diversityand productivity of the area.
8.2.1 Productive Agricultural Lands
Policy 8.2.1 a
The continued agricultural use of the Brunswick County's
(1) The zoning ordinance will be reviewed from
remaining farmlands shall be encouraged through proactive
time to time as to standards for preservation
planning for agricultural and open space preservation as well
and protection of the better agricultural lands in
as through growth management policies which favor distinct,
the county.
"town and country" style development patterns.
(2) The County will encourage the State and
Federal Government to develop appropriate
regulations over storm drainage and soil erosion
from a ricultural and forestry activities.
Policy 8.2.1 b
Brunswick County encourages the planning, installation and
The County shall encourage area residents to
on -going maintenance of community -based "cooperative
participate in the master. gardening program
gardens". Such gardens may be planned as a part of new
offered by the Cooperative Extension Service.
community designs, or may be established in existing
neighborhoods through the cooperative efforts of homeowners.
8.2.2 Commercial Forest Lands
Policy 8.2.2
Commercial forestry activities shall be supported in Brunswick
The County shall request and shall maintain on
County, provided significant adverse impacts on natural
file a copy of applicable U.S. Forest Service
resource systems are fully mitigated. Such activities should
standards and recommendations for
be conducted in accordance with the standards and
commercial forestry management practices.
recommendations of the U.S. Forest Service. The County also
advocates the voluntary participation of commercial forestry
Interests in the State of North Carolina's best management
practice program for forest management.
8.2.3 Mineral Production Areas
Policy 8.2.3
Mineral production and mining activities will be considered on a
(1) The locations of mineral production and
case by case review of economic benefits and environmental
mining activities shall be controlled by County
and land use impacts. Mining activities which would jeopardize
policies and ordinances. No local permit shall be
the short or long term viability of valuable natural resources or
create hazardous conditions in the County shall not be
issued until necessary State approvals have
been granted.
ermitted.
page 12-9

12. Appendices
8.2.4 Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
Policy 8.2.4
Brunswick County supports efforts to maintain and enhance
(1) The County will support educational
the fisheries resource of Its waters, including water quality
seminars to inform local area residents and
protection measures, nursery and habitat preservation, proper
business people about the potential for
fisheries management and enforcement, and aquaculture
aquaculture development in the county. Such
development, and artificial reef activities.
educational seminars may include courses at
County high schools, efforts of the local
Extension Service, and course work at
Brunswick Community College, and UNC-W.
(2) The County shall continue to support
Brunswick Community College in its efforts to
promote 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 action
in Congress or elsewhere, to approve funding
for studies and dredging necessary to reopen
the eastern channel of the Lockwood Folly
River.
8.2.5 Off Road Vehicles
Policy 8.2.5
Brunswick County discourages the use of off -road vehicles In
(1) The County Magistrate and the Sheriff's
all fragile areas because of potential adverse environmental
Department will be called upon as necessary to
impacts.
enforce trespassing laws involving off road
vehicles on properly posted private property, as
provided for in the General Statutes.
8.2.6 Development Impacts
Policy 8.2.6
New development and redevelopment activities shall not be
See table of contents to identify policies and
permitted which would significantly degrade the quality of
implementation actions concerning particular
natural and scenic resources in Brunswick County,
development types.
prematurely diminish the predominantly rural character of the
area or create Incompatibilities of scale design, or land use.
8.2.7 Peat or Phosphate Mining Impacts
Policy 8.2.7
See the general mining olio set forth previously under section 8.2.3.
8.2.8 Gamelands/Hunting Clubs
Policy 8.2.8
Brunswick County supports efforts to maintain and enhance
public and private gamelands, Including habitat protection and
management, and the proper management of hunting clubs and
hunting activities.
8.3 Economic and Community Development Policies
8.3.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic & Community Development
Brunswick County shall work to maintain a diversified local
economy while at the same time protecting the natural and
man-made environment and improving the area as a more
attractive community in which to work, live and play. Economic
and community development initiatives which capitalize upon
and enhance a distinct "town and country" character shall be
especially supported.
page 12-10

12. Appendices
1
8.3.1 Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries
Policy 8.3.1
Brunswick County encourages the development of clean
(1) The County zoning ordinance contains
Industry In locations where appropriate services can be
several manufacturingtindustrial zoning
provided, where transportation facilities are adequate, where
districts and an "economic development overlay
environmental impacts can be fully mitigated, and where
district". Such an overlay district allows the
surrounding land uses are compatible In nature. Brunswick
County to respond to concrete requests for new
County shall advocate the recruitment of new industries which
industrial development in an appropriate and
are compatible with area resources and economic conditions,
flexible manner.
and to the extent possible, promote the upward mobility of low
and moderate Income persons.
(2) The County will continue to support efforts to
actively seek industries with higher pay scales
relative to existing pay scales in the county.
(3) The County will continue to fund the
Economic 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.
8.3.2 Provision of Services to Development
Policy 8.3.2
Brunswick County will strive, to the extent that area
(1) The County shall continue with appropriately
resources, prudent budgeting, and priority setting allows, to
tailored engineering studies to accurately model
facilitate the expansion of public services and facilities to
the County's existing system, with an eye
meet the needs of existing and future commercial, Industrial,
toward maximizing efficiencies and costs.
and residential development. The location and size of such
services shall be coordinated with land use policies and the
(2) The County will continue to coordinate
County zoning ordinance.
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 support the
efforts of the Sanitary Sewer and Stormwater
Management Committee to research and
recommend upon water and sewer systems to
achieve compact growth and favorable
environmental effects.
(7) The County will continue to serve in a
coordinating capacity regarding extra territorial
jurisdiction between nearby municipalities (e.g.
Sunset Beach, Calabash)
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12. Appendices I
8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired
Policy 8.3.3
Brunswick Countyshall encourage developments which
(1) The land classification map will be employed
contribute to a distinct "town and country" or "village and
to direct urban level growth to appropriate
countrygrowth pattern. The intent of this policy is to allow for
locations where services can be provided.
the preservation of open space and productive farm and timber
land, to minimize costs of extending infrastructure and
(2) The County zoning ordinance will be
services, to avoid higher taxes, and minimize traffic
continually evaluated for its ability to target and
congestion associated with modern day suburban sprawl.
direct growth to areas consistent with the land
classification map, the water distribution
system, and existing and future sewer
systems.
(3) The County shall employ specific provisions
of the zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations
and infrastructure improvements to encourage
a town and country development pattern.
(4) The County will continue to enforce the
flood damage prevention ordinance as a
means of discouraging inappropriate
development in flood prone areas.
8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired
Policy 8.3.4 a
Brunswick County shall encourage a wide range of residential
(1) The zoning ordinance accommodates a
development forms and products, with emphasis on
variety of residential development forms
convenience to town or village based services. Residential
including but not limited to: patio homes,
developments which would Isolate residents from necessary
townhomes, manufactured homes, zero lot line
services, thereby increasing transportation, infrastructure,
and flag lot developments, cluster
and service delivery costs, shall not be encouraged.
developments, as well as traditional single
family subdivision developments.
(2) The County shall employ the zoning
ordinance to encourage residential
developments to occur in or near towns and
villages and therefore convenient to urban
services.
Policy 8.3.4 b
Multi -family development shall be located so as to have direct
The zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations,
access to a state or higher level road. Access to higher
and site plan review process shall be employed
density housing through existing lower density residential
to implement this policy.
areas shall be strongly discouraged.
8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Desired
Policy 8.3.5 a
Brunswick' County shall encourage commercial development to
(1) The County shall employ the zoning
locate In town or village centers convenient to surrounding
ordinance to encourage commercial
residential neighborhoods, and of a scale and design
developments to occur in or near towns and
compatible with their surroundings. Automobile -oriented
villages and therefore convenient to urban
commercial strip development along the County's roadways
services. The zoning ordinance shall also be
shall be strongly discouraged. If highway oriented commercial
employed to direct commercial development
development must occur, then It should be located in a
along highways to major intersections, and in
commercial "node", at the intersection of two or more state or
planned clusters.
higher level roadways.
(2) The County shall amend its development
regulations to incorporate design standards for
commercial development in keeping with Policy
Section 8.3.5 of this plan
Policy 8.3.5 b
Office and institutional development may be employed as a
The zoning ordinance shall be employed to
transitional land use between residences and more intensive
implement this policy.
forms of commercial development, provided that such
transitional development Is compatible in design and scale with
nearby residences.
8.3.6 Redevelopment, including Relocation of Threatened Structures
page 12-12

12. Appendices
11
Policy 8.3.6 a
Brunswick County supports and encourages the restoration
and/or appropriate adaptive reuse of significant and
architecturally Important historic & cultural structures & sites.
Policy 8.3.6 b
Redevelopment and/or rehabilitation of substandard structures
(1) The County will continue to participate in the
within the county shall be supported through public and private
Small Cities Community Development Block
sector initiatives for the economic betterment of area
Grant (CDBG) Program, including opportunities
residents.
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.
Policy 8.3.6 c
Recognizing that most erodible areas are within the planning
jurisdictions of the County's municipalities, the County
nonetheless supports a policy of relocation and retreat, rather
than shoreline hardening, when structures are threatened by
shoreline erosion. (Also see Policy 8.3.8(a) regarding support
for beach renourishment.
8.3.7 Commitment to State and Federal Programs
Policy 8.3.7
Brunswick County supports applicable state and federal
(1) The County will continue to participate in the
programs regarding economic and community development,
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
especially those programs related to better jobs, water quality,
process.
fisheries, and water and land transportation system
Improvements.
(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 actively participate in
cooperative regional economic development
and strategic planning programs, including, for
example, the Cape Fear River Corridor Stud .
8.3.8 Assistance to Channel Maintenance/Beach Renourishment
Policy 8.3.8 a
Brunswick County supports the continued maintenance of
(1) The County is committed to ongoing unified
navigable channels and inlets and the renourishment of the
support for channel improvements in waterways
county's beaches in a timely, coordinated fashion. The County
throughout the county.
will assist, In whatever non -monetary capacity it can, to see
that proper spoil areas and other channel maintenance needs
(2) The County will support efforts to place
are made available In support of these efforts.
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 action
in Congress or elsewhere, to approve funding
for studies and dredging necessary to reopen
the eastern channel of the Lockwood Folly
River.
Policy 8.3.8 b
Brunswick County supports the existing cooperative planning
and cost sharing program among the Federal, State and
municipal beachfront communities as the most equitable and
practical method for funding beach renourishment projects.
page 12-13

12. Appendices I
8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development
Policy 8.3.9
Due to the inherent conflicts with the growing, substantial,
(1) The County shall pursue the development of
tourist -based sector of Brunswick County's economy, the
zoning performance standards for private
development of off -shore energy facilities and associated on-
industry, including strict standards for energy
shore staging and service bases shall not be supported.
Similarly, oil, natural gas and related refining operations shall
facilities.
not be supported In Brunswick County.
8.3.10 Tourism
Policy 8.3.10 a
Brunswick County encourages the development of a high
(1) The County will continue to provide funding
quality tourism trade as a primary element of the county's
on an annual basis to the Southport -Oak Island
economic future. Investments in education and training,
and South Brunswick Chambers of Commerce
services, facilities, growth management, and community
for tourism promotion.
appearance shall be employed in furtherance of this objective.
(2) The County has begun and will continue to
develop a litter reduction program, the purpose
of which is to educate and organize public and
private organizations and individuals to
enhance the county's appearance.
Policy 8.3.10 b
Brunswick County shall pursue a tourism development strategy
(1) The County zoning ordinance and sign
which capitalizes upon the area's unique natural and scenic
regulations shall be employed to implement
resources, specifically avoiding the congestion and garish
this policy.
visual blight often associated with more urban or
entertainment -oriented tourist destinations.
8.3.11 Beach Waterfront and Boating Access
Policy 8.3.11 a
Brunswick County encourages efforts to plan for and provide
(1) The County shall update the 1990 Shoreline
public access to the county's beaches, shores, rivers,
Access Plan during the next five year period.
streams, and waterfronts, in accordance with the County's
shoreline access plan and commensurate with anticipated
population increases.
Policy 8.3.11 b
The provision of boating access facilities by the County,
(1) The County shall update the 1990 Shoreline
State, towns and private interests shall be encouraged and
Access Plan during the next five year period.
supported as an important means of public access to area
waters.
See Section 8.3.5
8.3.12 Beautification, Including Signs, Roadway Appearance and Litter
Policy 8.3.12 a
Brunswick County shall employ a combination of Incentives
(1) The County zoning ordinance, subdivision
and controls to encourage beautification measures which
regulations and recently revised sign
preserve the natural amenities of the community, especially as
seen from the county's highways and roadways.
regulations shall be employed to implement
this policy.
Policy 8.3.12 b
The County shall continually improve its signage standards so
that as the area grows, additional signage will not visually
See action immediately above.
overwhelm the county's roadways, thereby detracting from the
beauty of the area and devaluing its attractiveness as a place
in which to live or vacation.
Policy 8.3.12 c
Brunswick County views junked cars, "permanent" yard sales,
flashing signs, and other roadside clutter as eyesores in the
community, a detriment to a high quality of life, and a deterrent
(1) The County shall facilitate a meeting of
local governments in the County regarding
roadside litter and other visual blight related
to tourism and economic development efforts. Brunswick
activities.
County shall, in cooperation with the County's municipalities,
work to address these problems and eliminate them from our
roadsides.
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12. Appendices
1
C
Policy 8.3.12 d
Brunswick County shall not tolerate roadside litter and, in
See action immediately above.
cooperation with the County's municipalities, shall enforce
strict measures against littering.
8.3.13 Airports
Policy 8.3.13
Brunswick County supports the continued development of the
Brunswick County Airport and .will encourage land development
(1) Brunswick County will continue to provide
staff:assistance in support of air space zoning
patterns which allow for adequate airport 'expansion and
Improvements.
for the Brunswick County Airport, in keeping
with the wishes of the jurisdiction within which
the airport falls, the Southeast Sanitary
District.
8.3.14 Education
Policy 8.3.14 a
The attainment of a quality educational system shall be
(1) In light of the critical importance of primary
recognized as a critical factor in the future economic
development and quality of life in Brunswick County. Actions
education to the future of Brunswick County,
the County Commissioners, in coordination with
taken by the County in support of education shall reflect the
Board of Education and the Brunswick
high priority given to this issue.
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 8.3.14 b
Responsibility for improvements to the educational system
(1) Activities which encourage on -going school
shall not be placed solely with policy makers, professional
visitations and workshops by parents, and by
educators and administrators. Programs and actions which
leaders in business and industry shall be
emphasize (1) parental involvement and (2) assistance from
especially emphasized.
the business community shall be strongly ursued.
Policy 8.3 14 c
Appropriate educational and training programs shall be
(1) The County will continue to provide support
encouraged to help unemployed and underemployed local
for the Brunswick Community College Industrial
residents take advantage of business expansion and to stay
Education Center, housed in Brunswick
abreast of new technologies.
County's Industrial Park in the Leland area.
8.3.15 Solid Waste Management
Policy 8.3.15 a
Local area requirements for solid waste disposal facilities
(1) Long range planning for the County's solid
shall continue to be anticipated through advanced planning;
waste management needs, including alternative
facilities shall be located and designed so as not to adversely
impact significant natural or manmade resources.
waste disposal methods and cooperative
regional solutions, shall continue.
(2) The County will continue to educate and
enforce efforts to curtail construction material
dumpinq at trash collection sites.
Policy 8.3.15 b
Brunswick County recognizes the need for a regional solution
See implementation action (1) immediately
to the solid .waste Issue and will support efforts toward that
above.
end.
Policy 8.3.15 c
Research and development of recycling and resource recovery
programs, whether public or private, shall be encouraged and
(1) The County will continue to coordinate the
recycling efforts of the incorporated
supported.
municipalities in cooperation with those of the
Count .
page 12-15

12. Appendices I
8.3.16 Growth and Development Controls
Policy 8.3.16
Growth and development controls shall be employed to promote
(1) Efforts to improve and refine the County's
a "town and country" pattern of development, thereby
zoning in the unincorporated areas of the
conserving open space, and concentrating urban services
county will continue to be a priority.
cost-effectively within developing town and village centers.
opportunities to implement a town and country
growth pattern shall be sought during future
evaluations of the ordinance.
(2) The County will support State initiatives for
the appropriate regulation of livestock
production facilities.
(3) The County will accommodate and provide
proper planning for four classes of
manufactured housing, as specified in the
zoning ordinance.
(4) Commercial zoning districts and driveway
access standards will be implemented and
periodically refined to discourage inappropriate
stripping of development along the county's
hi hwa s.
8.3.17 Tree Cover Landscaping and Buffering
Policy 8.3.17
The County shall encourage efforts to preserve and enhance
(1) Current efforts to revise, update and
tree cover In new development and redevelopment. The County
improve the County's subdivision regulations,
also encourages the use of native landscape plants and
particularly with regard to open space and tree
materials In new and existing development to buffer
preservation, will continue.
Incompatible uses, improve appearances, absorb stormwater
runoff, and moderate air temperature swings.
(2) The County shall evaluate the need for
development standards related to parking lot
landscaping.
8.3.18 Transportation
Policy 8.3.18 a
Brunswick County shall be an active participant In plans and
(1) The County will continually work to improve
actions related to transportation improvements to and within
road access standards to protect the integrity
the County. Transportation Improvements shall be coordinated
of significant traffic -carrying roadways through
with land use planning, infrastructure Improvements, and
the county.
economic development efforts.
(2) The County Commissions will review
allocations for secondary road improvements
on a regular basis. '
(3) The County will continue to provide its
coordinated human services transportation
program.
8.3.18 b
-Policy
Brunswick County supports regional Intergovernmental
(1) The County will continue to coordinate
planning and cooperation for transportation improvements to
transportation improvements in the area
and within southeastern North Carolina and northeastern South
through updates to the County thoroughfare
Carolina.
plan, and through review and comment on the
transportation improvement program (TIP).
(2) The County will continue to participate in
the development of the Wilmington Urbanized
Area Transportation Plan.
Policy 8.3.18 c
Continued use and planned development of the Cape Fear
(1) The County will actively participate in
River, Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, and the Brunswick
cooperative regional economic development
County Airport shall be encouraged.
and strategic planning programs, including, for
example, the Cape Fear River Corridor Study.
(2) Brunswick County will continue to provide
staff assistance in support of airs ace zoning
page 12-16

12. Appendices
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11
for the Brunswick County Airport, in keeping
with the wishes of the jurisdiction within which
the airport falls, the Southeast Sanitary
District.
8.3.19 Sunny Point Military Ocean Terminal
Policy 8.3.19
Due to the regional economic significance of the Sunny Point
(1) The County shall meet with appropriate
Military Ocean Terminal and its strategic role in our nation's
defense system, Brunswick County supports. its continued
presence. The County also supports cooperative, long range
planning for the future of the terminal property as its mission
officials of the Sunny Point Military Ocean
Terminal on an on -going basis to discuss
opportunities for joint long range planning for
the terminal property, areas around it, and
may evolve over time.
transportation facilities serving it.
8.3.20 Capital Improvement Planning
Policy 8.3.20 a
Brunswick County shall plan ahead for the timely and cost
effective provision of major capital Improvements and services
(1) The County shall prepare a capital
improvement plan to address significant
on the basis of anticipated growth and demand.
capital expenditures anticipated for the next
five to ten years.
Policy 8.3.20 b
Coordination between the County, its municipalities, sewer
(1) The above mentioned CIP shall be
districts, and major Industries shall be encouraged in planning
coordinated, to the extent practical with area
and providing for capital facilities and services,
municipalities and other service providers.
8.3.21 Parks and Recreation
Policy 8.3.21
As the population of Brunswick County continues to grow, the
(1) Part of the above mentioned CIP shall
County shall support a commensurate increase in the
address long range park and recreation needs
development, maintenance and enhancement of its parks, open
in the county.
space and recreational facilities, including sound and ocean
access facilities. The County shall employ national and State
recreation standards as the minimum for such facilities —for
the benefit of both residents and visitors alike. The County
shall explore alternative means of funding for parks facilities
as necessary, Including State and Federal grants,
development impact fees, park user fees, general obligation
bonds and other sources of revenue.
8.3.22 Long Range Planning
Policy 8.3.22
Given the accelerated growth of the County and projections of
(1) The County shall continue to implement the
continued rapid growth, Brunswick County shall continue to
1996 recommendations of the Long Range
embrace a bias for long range, strategic planning, with near
Planning Committee.
term priorities established annually in conjunction with the
County's budget process.
(2) The Planning Board shall continue to meet
twice -monthly so as to allow for discussions of
long range planning issues on a routine basis.
8.4 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND COORDINATION POLICIES
8.4.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Public Participation
Brunswick County believes that an on -going, public information
program, combined with meaningful opportunities for citizen
Involvement In County decision -making, is the foundation for
effective public participation in county government.
8.4.1 a Public Education on Planning Issues
Polio 8.4.1 a
Brunswick County shall continue to employ public participation
techniques at public meetings which actively involve the public
(1) The County will continue to conduct special
public meetings as necessary to address
in identifying and discussing planning issues, thereby
facilitating a form of "engaged" education. Media attention
important growth issues and proposals in
Brunswick County.
concerning such meetings Is also strongly encouraged and
thankfully acknowledged for the public service they provide.
2 The County will continue to provide advance
page 12-17

12. Appendices I
notice and interviews with the press in an effort
to inform the public as to the purpose of public
meetin sin advance of such meetings.
8.4.1 b Continuing Public Participation in Planning
Policy 8.4.1 b
.Following plan adoption, Brunswick County shall employ
(1) The Planning Board will periodically evaluate
frequent, constructive and open regular meetings of the .
its effectiveness in achieving this policy, and
Planning Board and County Commissioners as the primary
will consider special actions to encourage
vehicle for engaging public participation in on -going planning
participation.
Issues and development projects.
8.4.1 c Public Input in Developing Policy Statements
Policy 8.4.1 c
Citizen Input in the development of growth policies shall be
(1) The County will continue to provide for open
supported through attention given to the issues and priorities
meetings of the Planning Board and County
which the public Identified during early input meetings.
Commissioners in both the letter and spirit of
the open meetings law of the State of North
Carolina.
8.4.1 d Intergovernmental Coordination in Local Government Planning
Policy 8.4.1 d
Effective public participation in County government planning
(1) The County shall continue its recent
shall also include coordination with municipal governments and
initiatives established over the past 2-3 years
utility districts in the County. The County shall continue to act
in facilitating joint meetings of all local
to facilitate improved communication and coordination on
governments and service districts in the
planning matters among local governments in the County. The
county.
Land Classification Map of the County land use plan shall be
employed as a specific planning tool to Identify and affirm
(2) The Planning Board shall facilitate an
County town and village growth centers.
annual planning symposium with the various
towns on topics of common interest and
concern. e.g. adult -oriented businesses, sign
regulations, landscape standards, roadside
litter, stormwater management, planned unit
development standards, etc.
(3) Upon its adoption, the County shall
incorporate the Second Bridge to Oak Island
Land Use and Development Plan into this land
use Ian b reference.
8.5 Storm Hazard Mitigation/Post-Disaster Recovery, & Evacuation Policies
and Plans
Policy 8.5.0
The County shall continually seek to establish procedures and
take actions to reduce the potential for the loss of life and
property damage prior to a storm event, and to provide a
framework for orderly reconstruction in the aftermath of a
hurricane or other significant damaging event.
Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies
8.5.1 A Storm Effect Mitigation
(1) High Winds: Brunswick County shall continue to enforce the
(1) The County will continue to provide building
North Carolina Building Code, particularly those provisions
inspections services for the unincorporated
which require construction standards to meet resistive
area, as well as some of the municipalities in the
factors, i.e. design, wind velocity.
county, including the enforcement of all
provisions relative to storm safety and
resistance.
(2) Storm Surge: Recognizing that most parts of the County
(1) The County will continue to push for the re -
subject to storm surge are within the regulatory jurisdiction of
mapping of flood hazard areas to provide a more
municipalities, Brunswick County nonetheless supports the
accurate picture of land located in hazardous.
development standards of the State CAMA Ocean Hazard Area
locations.
of Environmental Concern (AEC). These standards help ensure
that structures particularly susceptible to storm surge (e.g.
first row) are set back from the ocean a distance based on the
averse annual erosion rate at that location.
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12. Appendices
1
(3) Flooding: The County is an active participant In the
National Flood Insurance Program and Is supportive of its
(1) The County will continue to enforce the flood
damage prevention ordinance.
hazard mitigation elements. The County shall continue to seek
Improvements In development standards which would result In
lower insurance premiums for County property owners. The
County also supports proper enforcement of State and Federal
wetlands development permit processes in areas potentially
susceptible to flooding.
(4) Wave Action and Shoreline Erosion: The County is
supportive of the CAMA development permit process for
oceanfront and estuarine shoreline areas and the requisite
development standards which encourage shoreline
preservation, dune stabilization, wave action absorption, and
other mitigation measures.
8.5.1 B Discouragement of Hazardous Development
(1) Brunswick County shall discourage high Intensity uses and
The County shall review its zoning map and
large structures from being constructed within the 100-year
ordinance concerning commercial and high
floodplain, erosion -prone areas, and other locations
susceptible to hurricane and flooding hazards.
intensity residential districts as related to
floodprone or other high hazard areas.
Appropriate zoning amendments may then be
undertaken .
(2) Brunswick County, through its Emergency Management
(1) Continual improvements in the County's
Office, shall encourage each of its communities to participate
administration of the 911 emergency system
In hurricane preparedness, education and Information sharing
will be sought.
programs at least once per year. Such public outreach
programs should educate the public as to storm resistant
(2) The street signage program will continue.
building design and construction standards, as well as local
government policies on evacuation, reentry, restoration of
(3) The county -wide street naming and
services and reconstruction.
addressing program will continue.
(3) The County will periodically conduct studies to analyze
both the feasibility and benefits of revising local building and
development standards to lessen the effects of storm damage.
Included shall be an examination of the County's floodplain
management, zoning, subdivision and building standards.
8.5.1 C Public Land Acquisition
Brunswick County shall not participate In the purchase of land
parcels located in hazard areas or rendered unbuildable by
storms or other events for the purposes of shorefront access.
8.5.1 D Evacuation and Emergency Management
(1) Brunswick County, In cooperation with municipal and State
(1) An annual report shall be presented to the
officials, shall annually evaluate the impact of continued
County Commissioners summarizing any
growth on existing transportation facilities with regard to
significant developments or concerns
evacuation routes and times. The Intent shall be to identify
regarding hurricane evacuation.
and address needed transportation Improvements well in
advance of a crisis.
(2) Brunswick County recognizes the critical role that area fire
departments, rescue squads and other emergency personnel
play In managing emergency situations. The County shall work
cooperatively with such emergency personnel to plan for and
respond to emergencies and shall facilitate cooperation among
emergency ersonnel.
Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies
8.5.2 a Emergency Management Plan and Near Term Response
The County shall prepare and annually update an Emergency
Management and Operations Plan in concert with municipal
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12. Appendices
and State emergency management officials. The plan shall
encompass pre -storm and immediate post storm activities and
policies of the County, including coordinated policies on
evacuation and reentry to damaged areas. Important elements
of the plan and Its policies shall be publicized, particularly at
the beginning of each hurricane season.
8.5.2 b Local Post -Disaster Reconstruction Policies
Redevelopment in the most hazardous areas may be
discouraged or prohibited If post storm analysis indicates that
rebuilding would be unsafe or unwise. Structures and sites
destroyed by 50% or more of their value and which do not
conform to the County's building regulations, zoning
ordinances, and other storm hazard mitigation policies, shall
be redeveloped according to current standards. In some
Instances, this may mean relocation of construction or no
reconstruction at all. Structures and sites suffering damages
at less than 50% of their value shall be allowed to be restored
to their original condition prior to the storm.
8.5.2 c Recovery Task Force
The Board of County Commissioners of Brunswick County shall
(1) The County's Emergency Services Center
be ultimately responsible for supervising the implementation of
will serve as a logical command center for the
polices and procedures contained in the disaster relief and
assistance plan, and the post -disaster recovery policies of the
directives of the County Commissioners during
and after a major storm event.
land use plan. The Board of County Commissioners shall also
have at their disposal a predetermined Recovery Task Force to
carry out their directives regarding recovery activities
following a major storm event. The composition and duties of
the Recovery Task Force shall be specified in the County's
Emergency Management and Operations Plan.
8.5.2 a Staging Schedule For Reconstruction and Repair
(1) To deal with the large number of requests for permits after
a major storm, the County shall employ a "building permit
triage" system for orderly issuance of building permits. Criteria
for the order of issuance shall be developed in advance, with
the need for modification acknowledged based upon the
specific circumstances being faced.
(2) 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.
(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.
(3) Immediately following a damaging storm event, the County
(1) This policy will be implemented in
shall work with all appropriate utility and service companies to
implement a planned sequence for the restoration of public
utilities and services, with allowance for adjustment to deal
accordance with the best practices of public
and private utilities regarding the restoration of
service following a major storm event.
with circumstances at hand. Generally, priority shall be given
to those repairs that will restore service to critical locations
(e.g. hospital) first and secondarily, to those repairs that will
restore service to as many persons as soon as possible.
8.5.2 E Public Infrastructure Repairs/ Replacement
(1) The County encourages underground installation,
replacement and storm proofing of public and private utilities
and infrastructure.
(2) In the event of extensive hurricane damage to public
(1) The County will monitor all reconstruction
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.
efforts involving both public and private utilities,
including roads, to'provide for less vulnerable
redevelopment after a hurricane.
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