Land Use Plan-1996

Acknowledgement
The preparation of this document and associated maps 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.

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City of Northwest
City Council:
James Knox, Mayor
Sylvester Ballard
Charles Carroll
Robert J. Munn
J. D. Robinson
Elsie Jane Peterson
IJoyce Bragg, City Clerk
John Wessell, City Attorney
Planning Board:
Artis Bryant, Chairman
Charles Carroll
Marge Damiani
James McCoy
Clarkie Munn
Technical Assistance Provided By
Cape Fear Council of Governments
1480 Harbour Drive
Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
[phone]
[phone] fax
Submitted for Agency review on December 29, 1995
Local Public Hearing held on July 27, 1996
Local Adoption on July 27, 1996
Adoption by the Coastal Resources Commission on September 27, 1996
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� Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION .................................
Section 1: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS ....... .........
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1
A.
B.
ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE .........
POPULATION AND ECONOMY ..................
1
3
C.
SEASONAL POPULATION ......................
6
D.
EXISTING LAND USE .........................
7
E.
CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES AND REGULATIONS .....
7
(1) Zoning Ordinance .........................
7
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(2) Minimum Housing Code .....................
8
(3) Subdivision Regulations .....................
8
(4) State Transportation Improvement Plan ...........
(5) Ordinance Creating a Planning Organization .......
8
8
(6) Privilege License .........................
10
(7) City Administration and Method of Operation .......
Section 2. CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT ..................
10
11
A.
B.
LAND SUITABILITY ..........................
CARRYING CAPACITY ........................
11
13
Section 3: ESTIMATED DEMAND............................. 14
A. WATER .•.•....•••.. ..••.••••..-.••14
B. SEWER .................................... 15
C. LEVEL OF USE FOR SCHOOLS, ROADS, & HOSPITALS . 15
(1) Schools ............................... 15
(2) Roads ................................ 15
(3) Hospitals ............................ .: 16
D. POPULATION AND ECONOMY . 17
E. SEASONAL POPULATION ...................... 18
F. -LOCAL OBJECTIVES CONCERNING GROWTH ........ 18
Section 4: POLICIES FOR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT..........
A. RESOURCE PROTECTION ......................
19,
19
(1) Constraints to Development ..................
19
(2) Areas of Environmental Concern ...............
(3) Development in Proximity
21
to Outstanding Resource Waters ...........
21
(4) Fragile Land Areas .......................
(a) Freshwater Swamps and Marshes ..........
21
21
(b) Manmade Hazard Areas ................
22
(c) Archaeologic or Historic Areas ............ 22

(d) Prime Farmland ..................... 23
.(e) Wildlife Habitat Areas ................. 23
(f) Hurricane & Flood Evacuation Needs & Plans .. 23
(5) Protection of Potable Water .................. 24
(6) Use of Package Treatment Plants ............... 24
(7) Stormwater Runoff ........................ 25
(8) Industrial Impacts ......................... 25
B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT ......
26
(1)
Productive Agricultural Lands .................
26
(2)
Commercial Forest Lands ....................
27
(3)
Existing & Potential Mineral Production Areas ......
27
(4)
Commercial & Recreational Fisheries ............
27
(5)
Off -Road Vehicles ........................
27
(6)
Residential, Commercial, & Industrial
Land Development Impacts ..............
28
(7)
Peat or Phosphate Mining's Impacts .............
29
C. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ......
29
(1)
Type of Development to be Encouraged ..........
29
(2)
Type and Location of Industry Desired ...........
30
(3)
Local Commitment to Services Provision ..........
30
(4)
Urban Growth Patterns Desired ................
31
(5)
Redevelopment of Developed Areas .............
31
(6)
Commitment to State & Federal Programs .........
31
(7)
Assistance to Channel Maintenance
and Beach Nourishment Projects ..........
32
(8)
Energy Facility Siting & Development ...........
32
(9)
Coastal & Estuarine Water Beach Access ..........
32
(10)
Tourism ..............................
33
(11)
Type of Density Desired .....................
33
(12)
Manufactured Homes .......................
34
(13)
Provision of Services to Development ............
34
(14)
Recreation Facilities ......................
35
(15)
Annexation .............................
35
(16)
Beautification ............................
36
(17)
Education ..............................
36
Section 5: CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ............... 36
Section 6: STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY,
& EVACUATION PLANS ....................... 37
A. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION .................. 37
B. NORTHWEST'S STORM HAZARD MITIGATION POLICY. 39
C. POST -DISASTER RECOVERY PLAN ................ 39

ID. EVACUATION PLANS ......................... 43
Section 7: LAND CLASSIFICATION ........................... ............... 43
(1) Transition . ••..46
(2) Limited Transition ........................ 47
(3) Conservation ............................ 47
Section 8: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATION 47
Section 9: INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION
& AWLEMENTATION ........................ 48
APPENDIX
ATTACHMENT A -- --- — —
STATE & FEDERAL ELECTED OFFICIALS/CITY OF
NORTHWEST
ATTACHMENT B -- -- — --
SURVEY TALLY SHEET
ATTACHMENT C — — — --
CORRESPONDENCE FROM NC DIVISION OF
ARCHIVES & HISTORY, DAVID BROOKS
ATTACHMENT D — -- -- -r
LETTER OF INQUIRY TO NC DIVISION OF ARCHIVES
& HISTORY
ATTACHMENT E — — — —
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN
ATTACHMENT F — -- — —
20 YEAR POPULATION PROJECTIONS, CITY OF
NORTHWEST
ATTACHMENT G -- -- --- --
20 YEAR POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR REGION 0
BY COUNTY (Table)
ATTACHMENT H —
20 YEAR POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR REGION 0
BY COUNTY (Graph)
LIST OF TABLE
TABLE 1 — — MUNICIPAL & COUNTY POPULATION ................ 3
TAB 2 — --- PER CAPITA PERSONAL INCOME ................... 6
MAPS
EXISTING LAND USE
Folded in back of document
1995 LAND CLASSIFICATION
MAP Folded in back of document
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INTRODUCTION
The term "comprehensive plan" is often used interchangeably with other terms. The
"comprehensive plan" is also referred to as the "general plan" or the "master plan." The
essential characteristics of the plan, which we will refer to as the Land Use Plan (LUP) or the
Land Use Plan Update (LUPUP), is that the plan encompasses all geographic parts of the
community and all physical and environmental elements which bear on land use development.
The plan is general in the sense that it will summarize policies and proposals and will not
indicate (in great detail) specific locations or detailed regulations. The plan will be long-range
in the sense that it will look beyond the foreground of current pressing and everyday
development pressures and will look to the perspective of problems and possibilities for 10 to
20 years in the future.
For planning purposes the preparation, adoption, and use of the Land Use Plan is
considered to be the primary objective of a planning program. Most other plans and planning
actions by a local government are designed, at least theoretically, to be based upon the
comprehensive land use plan.
With the production of this document will we throw off the yoke of our day-to-day
concerns and take a more thoughtful look at the City's desired growth patterns for future land
use development activity. We will look at the data available on the economy, population,
existing land use, and natural resources: We will prepare a map which will describe the
existing uses of land and we will also prepare a map which will describe future desired growth
patterns. With this information in hand, development proposals can be examined in the light
of existing services. Requested uses of land may be viewed along side the vision of desired
future growth, and the interrelationships of the proposed development activity may be
compared with existing development. Services can also be analyzed with thought given
toward the appropriateness of project design.
Local government has a great deal of influence on how a community develops. The
buildings, facilities, and improvements provided by local government affect the daily lives of
most citizens. These same features give a form and a life to the community and can be a
stimulus or an impediment to the development of privately owned land in the area.
The local government is inescapably involved in questions on the physical development
of land within the area of its jurisdiction. At nearly every meeting the City Council and the
Planning Board will make decisions concerning zoning, streets, sites for public buildings, or
the allocations of funds for public projects of one type or another. And for making these
kinds of decisions the lay Boards of local government need technical guidance. If the quickest
and most expedient decision is taken, without forethought, the local government leaders may
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find that they will make a decision one month only to negate the premise of that decision next
month because they are faced with another
decision and another quickie answer. Over time these type of decisions, call them incremental
decisions, are made and the local government can end up on a path that is not consistent with
the desired future of the City. This type of decision process known as "incrementalism" can
be avoided by a proactive approach to community development.
The local government needs an instrument, a plan, which will establish long-range
general policies for the physical development of the community. With a plan decisions can be
made in a coordinated and unified manner. The comprehensive Land Use Plan will provide
the City with this sort of an instrument. It can be continually referred to as an important
source for decisions on those development issues which arise on a regular basis. Zoning
classification amendment requests, subdivision approval, the location of roads or highways,
extension of public services ..... all of these decisions are made in a manner which best serves
the public interest if some systematic planned approach to the decision process is made. The
Land Use Plan will help with all of this.
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Section 1: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
A. ESTABLIS>EIlViENT OF INFORMATION BASE
This 1995 Land Use Plan for the City of Northwest is the initial Land Use Plan for the
City. The document is prepared according to the guidelines and requirements of the North
Carolina Coastal Resources Commission and the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA).
The specific requirements for the document are within the North Carolina Administrative
Code at Subchapter 7B of Chapter 15A. The version of 15A NCAC 713 pertinent to the
preparation of this document is dated November 1, 1989.
This Land Use Plan will serve to guide the community on development decisions. It is
recognized that land development takes place as a result of a series of decisions by private
individuals and government. Those decisions, if they are not considered rationally prior to a
local government being confronted with a development request, may not be in the overall
interest of the community. So as to promote community interest for the present and future
generations, a Land Use Plan is developed and kept current by local governments in the
coastal area of North Carolina.
The process of Land Use Plan development includes the collection of data at the
beginning of the process to give local government leaders an opportunity to understand current
or existing conditions. It is recognized that from a cognitive standpoint there are probably no
others in the community who understand current issues better than the elected officials and
appointed boards of local government. However, these individuals often find, when having
placed before them a comprehensive view of the community elicited through the Land Use
Planning process, new insights to development issues. The compilation and analysis of data is
M& part of the process herein rendered.
The City of Northwest will, through the process of developing this Plan, adopt policies
to guide and direct community growth. It is incumbent upon all community leaders to
recognize that many decisions affecting development are made by other levels of government.
Local policies and local regulations need to take this into account. By carefully addressing the
Land Use Planning Guidelines requirements, the City of Northwest gives guidance to
individuals and other levels of government who will strive to follow local policies dealing with
locally important or controversial issues. State and federal agencies will be advised to use the
contents of this Plan in making project consistency, funding, and permit decisions. Policies on
the type of development desired, density of development projects, protection of resources, and
other areas are examples of this type of local policy decision.
The City of Northwest's initial Land Use Plan provides the following basic elements:
1) A summary of data collection and analysis
2) An existing land use map
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3) Policy discussion I
4) A land classification map
The Land Use Planning Guidelines require the following policy issue areas to be
addressed within the Plan:
1) Resource Protection
2) Resource Production and Management
3) Economic and Community Development
4) Continuing Public Participation
5) Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery and Evacuation
Plans
6) Land Classification
7) Intergovernmental Coordination and Implementation
To gather the information required as a part of the Land Use Plan development process
_
requires assistance from a large number of State, federal, and local agency personnel and
documents. Shown below are some of those sources' and documents utilized during the
preparation of this Plan.
*----NC Division of Coastal Management
*----NC Division of Environmental Management
*----US Army Corps of Engineers
*----Brunswick County Planning Department
*----Brunswick County GIS Department
*----Federal Emergency Management Agency
*----NC Division of Archives and History
*---US Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, Brunswick County
*----Brunswick County Land Use Plan Update (1993)
*----NC Department of Transportation
*----City of Northwest Staff
*----Brunswick County Schools
*----City of Northwest Zoning Ordinance
*----City of Northwest Minimum Housing Code
*----Brunswick County Thoroughfare Plan
*----NC Office of State Planning
The City of Northwest recognizes that land use planning is not a static process.
Changes in development activity are regular and sometimes rapid. While development has not
been occurring in the City at an extremely rapid pace, to date, the City is poised to accept
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' These sources were supplemented by windshield surveys in March of 1995. The
windshield surveys were to view and obtain data on existing land use patterns, roads, and
housing conditions.
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development activity which it recognizes may approach City leaders as soon as the door to
City Hall next opens. The development of this Plan has led to new discussion, new ideas, and
has given great insight to the future possibilities for the City.
B. POPULATION AND ECONOMY
The most recent "official" figures for the population of the City of Northwest were
published by the Office of State Planning in the Fall of 1994. The total population for the
City was given as 658 persons. (The official estimate is given as of July 1993.) Since this
municipality was incorporated after the 1990 Census, the figure shown in the Office of State
Planning document for 1990 is a separation count and is not published in the 1990 Census
report. It is, however, useful to consider this figure because the estimate in the separation
count gives an opportunity for a projection on future growth rate for the City.
TABLE 1:
APRIL 1980
APRIL 1990
JULY 1993
PERCENT
MUNICIPAL
& COUNTY
CHANGE
POPULATION
1990-1993
CITY OF
------
611
658
7.7 %
NORTHWEST
BRUNSWICK
35,777
50,985
56,896
11.6%
COUNTY
* Source: NC Office of State Planning
With its incorporation, the City of Northwest became the ninth largest (in population)
of the eighteen municipalities in Brunswick County. (There are 524 municipalities in North
Carolina's 100 Counties.0) If we figure a 2.56% growth rate per year for the City of
Northwest, from July 1993, the current (July 1995) population for the City is 691 persons.
According to the Brunswick County G.I.S. Department, the City of Northwest is the second
largest municipality in Brunswick County by land area. (Northwest is second in size to
Boiling Spring Lakes.) This gives the City plenty of room in which to continue to grow.
Between April 1990 and July 1993, the population of North Carolina grew by almost
320,000 persons (4.8%), increasing from 6.63 million to 6.95 million in only 3.25 years. By
April 2000, NC population is estimated to reach 7.44 million, representing an increase of
more than 810,000 (or 12.3%).
3 r births minus deaths
_ Population levels change in three ways: by natural increase ( ), in -
migration (people moving into the area), and out -migration (people moving out of the area). From
the 1970 U.S. Census to the 1990 U.S. Census the population of Brunswick County more than
doubled with the population change for those years going from 24,223 to 50,985.
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As we compare Brunswick County population growth to the growth of North Carolina,
we see: 1980 1990 Change
Brunswick County 35,777 50,985 42.51 %
North Carolina 5,880,095 6,628,637 12.73%
* Source: U. S. Census
Brunswick County is growing at a significantly faster rate than the rest of North
Carolina. It is estimated that the population of Brunswick County grew by 15,208 persons
from 1980 to 1990. It is also true that North Carolina is growing at a rate much faster than
many of the other States.
As we compare County Land Area and Population Density for Brunswick County and
North Carolina, we see: Density of Pop.
Land Area (Sq. Mi.) 1980 190 % Change
Brunswick County 860.49 41.6 59.3 42.51 %
North Carolina 48,843 120.4 135.7 12.73%
* Source: NC Office of State Planning
With the population growth being experienced by Brunswick County the density of the
population is also increasing. Figuring density of population, of course, is a simple
mathematical process (population divided by land area) which does not show the entire growth
picture for Brunswick County. The undisputable fact is ..... the County is growing
tremendously in the east, along the beaches or the resort areas. Also municipal areas, those
areas of some already concentrated population, are seeing significant growth. For the City of
Northwest, which has not seen tremendous new growth in recent years, but which is
strategically positioned to attract new growth, the boom may be about to start. Brunswick
County has become an extremely attractive vacation resort destination and a retirement area.
This recognition will be of significant importance to the municipalities in the County as all will
continue to grow.
A breakdown of Brunswick County Population and Housing Units By Township shows:
Population Housing Units Rank
Township IM 1990 19800 1990 Order
_'90(#UnitsTDq
Lockwoods Folly Township 7,361 10,705
Northwest Township*
4,657
7,454
Shallotte Township
6,582
11,818
Smithville Township
6,838
9,488
Town Creek Township
8,357
9,260
Waccamaw Township
1,982
2,260
* Northwest Township is the location of the City of
Northwest.
(Source: Brunswick County Planning Department.)
4
5,636 10,084 (2)
1,902
2,917
(5)
4,717
10,826
(1)
5,436
8,506
(3)
3,123
3,844
(4)
737
937
(6)

The number of housing units, when compared to Township population gives us an
interesting picture. There are nearly as many houses in the Lockwoods Folly Township
(1990) as there are persons. This is also true, to a slightly lesser extent, in Shallotte
Township. This statistic reflects the very seasonal nature of the population influences on these
Townships. When the population rises seasonally then the houses extant in these Townships
will hold a large number of people. As a comparison, Lockwoods Folly Township has (1990)
10,084 houses. The population (1990) is 10,705 persons. We have a figure for Census
purposes of 1.06 persons per household. In the Northwest Township we have 2,917 houses
and 7,454 persons. This yields a figure of 2.55 persons per household. This is the highest
r f persons per household b Township, in Brunswick County.
number o p p Y P Y
County government tax revenue for the State of North Carolina for FY 1990 was
$1,515,146,538. For Brunswick County the totals were as follows:
County -wide Property Tax $24,541,023
' Local Option Sales Tax 5,598,257
Other Taxes 678,169
BRUNSWICK COUNTY TOTAL $30,139.889
(Source: Statistical Abstract of NC Counties, 1991)
The property tax rate for the City of Northwest is 20 cents per"hundred dollars
(.20/100) of assessed value. For the owner of a $100,000 property the City requires a local
property tax payment of $200. A sample listing of other municipal tax rates to the County is
shown below.
Boiling Spring Lakes = .30/100 Leland = .051100
Long Bch _ .36/100 Southport _ .53/100
Shallotte .325/100 Sunset Bch .135/100
Ocean Isle Bch = .17/100 Belville = .15/100
Calabash = .085/100 Yaupon Bch = .305/100
The Brunswick County ad valorem tax rate is .685/100. This compares favorably with
other area Counties.
Pender County = .65/100
New Hanover County = .63/100 (with .0285 added in for the fire districts)
Columbus County = .78/100
The County rate is added to the municipal rate to give a total property tax. In
Northwest, the owner of the $100,000 property pays $200 to the City and $685 to the County.
The total tax bill is $885. The amount of property tax owed the City yearly in Northwest has
not gone up since incorporation (1993).
Per capita personal income for Brunswick County and NC is shown in TABLE 2:
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TABLE 2•
PER
CAPITA
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
CHANGE
PERSONAL
1986-1990
INCOME
BRUNS
$10,118
$10,504
$11,390
$11,842
$12,527
+0.2381
COUNTY
NC TOTAL
$12,462 1
$13,305
$14,388
$15,422
$16,266
+0.3052
* Source: NC Small Business & Technology Development Center/Southeastern Regional Center,
University of North Carolina - Wilmington
C. SEASONAL POPULATION
The impact of seasonal population on the City of Northwest is negligible. The reason
for this is that the City is located away from the resort beaches which experience huge influxes
of seasonal visitors. The City also has no retail service areas or centers which would tend to
draw people into the City for shopping excursions. Conversations with City residents indicate
a primary concern of City officials is the need for a local grocery and drug store in the
community. Residents must currently travel to Wilmington to shop for groceries. The lack
of commercial development in the City is an inconvenience for residents.
Those seasonal effects which are felt by the Town include a small increase in traffic
from March through October. The traffic increase does not directly affect the City as the
traffic generally bypasses, on U.S. Highway 74 - 76. The City has yet to capitalizes on its
location along this major traffic corridor as a means by which to improve the local economy.
It is expected that the recent lanes added to U.S. Highway 17 through Brunswick
County will have a long term positive effect on growth in the County. This growth should
eventually affect the City of Northwest both seasonally and year-round. The County will
begin to act as a conduit for traffic between the major resort and population centers of
Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. As growth continues in these areas, people who wish to avoid
the urban environment, and the cost of establishing residency or living there, will begin to
look to the outlying areas nearby. The City of Northwest, which is approximately 15 minutes
from downtown Wilmington, will begin to reap the rewards of its location. The City is poised
to accept the possibility of growth in permanent population. (It is a recurring theme in this
Land Use Plan that the City of Northwest desires to continue to grow and develop. Seasonal
impacts on the region have a small effect on the City now. As the entire region continues to
grow, and as the City of Northwest continues to grow with the region, there will be seasonal
as well as permanent impacts. For more details on growth, consult the policies section of this
document.)
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There are currently no major draws on community services, and no special expenses
for the City, during the months when much of the rest of Brunswick County is experiencing a
booming tourist business.
D. EXISTING LAND USE
The vast majority of lands within the City of Northwest are forested and timber harvesting
continues to be a big business in Brunswick County. Commercial forestry is also an important
industry within Northwest's municipal boundary. This use is expected to continue in
importance through the planning period. There is also much land within the City which is
p being farmed. This use will also continue to be important through the planning period.
It is anticipated that the number of acres used for residential purposes will increase during the
planning period. There are currently 195 single family homes within the City of Northwest.
Of this total, some 120 (or 61 %) are manufactured homes. This is considered to be a large
percentage of manufactured homes. Brunswick County is known to have the second highest
number of manufactured homes, by County, in the State. (Cumberland County is known to
have more.) The total number of manufactured homes in the County is approximately 38% of
the total.
It is also anticipated that the number of businesses will increase within the planning period.
There are currently 2 businesses in the City: McKeithan's Wrecker Service and Phase II (a
nightclub). Other uses include the Volunteer Fire Department Building (which is currently
serving as City Hall), the new City Hall building (scheduled for renovation) and playground,
several cemeteries and six churches (All Souls Episcopal Church, Spring Green Baptist
Church, Perkinsville Baptist Church, Bethel AME Church, Crystal Springs Baptist Church,
and the Salvation and Deliverance Church).
The City has a large land area, as previously noted (this is the second largest municipality in
land area in the County), and is expected to continue to grow. At the time of this writing
there are two major subdivision proposals before the community which will likely create in the
vicinity of 80 or 90 new residential lots.
The Existing Land Use Map which gives a graphic depiction of the current land uses is located
in the back of this document.
-� E. CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
(I) ---Zoning Ordinance
The initial Zoning Ordinance for the City of Northwest was adopted in December
1994. The Zoning Ordinance was approved through the legal process described in the North
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Carolina General Statutes. The Zoning Administrator for the City of Northwest is the City
Clerk.
(2)—Minimum Housing Code
The City of Northwest has in effect a Minimum Housing Code, which was prepared in
accordance with NC G.S. 16OA-441, that declares that buildings which are unfit for human
habitation may be caused to be repaired or may be caused to be destroyed at the expense of the
owner of the property if the structure does not meet certain minimum standards. This
Ordinance was adopted February 13, 1995.
(3)—Subdivision Regulations,
The City of Northwest has Subdivision Regulations which were adopted by the City on
June 29, 1995. The purpose of this Ordinance is to establish procedures and standards for the
development and subdivision of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the City of
Northwest. It is further designed to provide for the orderly growth and development of the
City; for the coordination of streets and highways within proposed subdivisions; for the
dedication or reservation of recreation areas serving resident so the immediate neighborhood
and rights -of -way easements for street and utility purposes; and for the distribution of
population and traffic in a manner which will avoid congestion and overcrowding and will
create conditions essential to public health, safety, and the general welfare. The Ordinance
will facilitate the further resubdivision of larger tracts into smaller parcels of land.
(4)—State Transportation Improvement Plan
The North Carolina Department of Transportation's "Transportation Improvement
Plan" currently shows no major improvements which will directly impact roads or land areas
within the City of Northwest. Northwest has unmet needs in the area of roads and wishes to
work with the NC DOT on roads improvements. The City looks forward to a successful and
continuing association with this organization. This newly incorporated (1993) City currently
has no mutually adopted Thoroughfare Plan in accordance with N.C.G.S. 136.66.2.
(5)---Ordinance Creating a Planning Organization (Planning Board)
Most North Carolina Towns and Cities with any kind of land use regulation have a
Planning Board. Northwest is true to this standard. The duties of the Planning Board are
advisory. The Board supervises the preparation of Land Use Plans (such as this document),
5 As a means of furthering this goal, the Northwest City Council, in November 1994,
created the Road Committee. The first organizational meeting of this Committee was held on
December 20, 1994. The Committee consists of eight citizen members who advise the Council
on matters pertaining to roads and roads improvements.
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special studies, Ordinances, and recommends these plans, policies, studies, and Ordinances to
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the City Council .
The Planning Board in Northwest was created by a local Ordinance dated December
28, 1995. This first Planning Board is governed by a set of Bylaws which define the
following:
(a) Members and terms of office...
The Planning Board consists of 5 members. All of the members are citizens and
residents of the City and are appointed by the City Council. All new terms are by three year
appointment.
(b) Officers and duties...
The Planning Board elects its own officers at the regular meeting in July of each year.
The officers are: (a) Chairman -- The Chairman presides over meetings and Public Hearings
of the Planning Board. The Chairman decides on matters of order and procedure. The
Chairman appoints Committees to study specific matters. The Chairman develops the meeting
agenda with assistance from the Zoning Administrator. The Chairman will also provide the
City Council with an annual report by May 30 of each year. (b) Vice -Chairman -- In the
absence of the Chairman, the Vice -Chairman performs the duties assigned to the Chairman.
(c) Secretary -- The Secretary keeps the minutes of all meetings (both regular and special)
and hearings called by the Planning Board. The Secretary, after conferring with the
Chairman, sends notices of all meetings (special and regular) at least 4 days in advance of the
meeting and will call and notify members at least 24 hours in advance of special or emergency
meetings. The Secretary also carries on routine correspondence and maintains records and
files.
(c) Meetings...
Regular meetings of the Planning Board are on the third Monday of each month.
Unless special notice is given by the Chairman all meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. and are
conducted at City Hall (V.F.D. Building). Special meetings may be called by the Chairman,
or the Vice -Chairman acting in the absence of the Chairman, provided that a minimum of 24
hours notice is given to members. A quorum consists of 3 members. A vote by a majority of
those present (when a quorum is present) decides matters.. Members are required to vote
unless excused by the Chairman. An abstention constitutes an affirmative vote. Proceedings
are conducted according to Robert's Rules of Order and the Chairman is the final arbitrator on
matters of procedure.
(d) Records retention...
All Planning Board records are to be made available to the public in accordance with
the requirements of the NC General Statutes. The Secretary maintains a file of all studies,
plans, reports, recommendations, minutes, and correspondence of the Planning Board. The
file is maintained at City Hall.
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(6)—Privilege License
The City of Northwest does not charge a privilege license tax. This is a three level tax
that the State, County, and City often all levy on the same business activity. The tax is levied
on the privilege of engaging in a particular occupation or business activity within the taxing
jurisdiction and is enforced and collected through the issuance of an annual license. The
statute which enables the levy of this tax is NC G.S. 105-33 through 105-113. A City which
wishes to levy this tax must adopt an Ordinance levying the tax. The Ordinance lists the
activities taxed and the tax rates. Cities have a great deal of flexibility in selecting the
activities to be taxed and the rate of tax. The privilege license tax is a revenue generating
measure and should not be used to regulate otherwise legitimate businesses. The City of
Northwest has henceforth not sought to charge this tax to businesses located in the City. The
primary reason is that it is felt that this tax might inhibit businesses wishing to locate within
the municipality. The City does not wish to inhibit any commercial investment based upon tax
considerations.
(7)---City Administration and Method of Operation
The City operates under the Mayor - Council form of government. The primary
advantage of this type of government is that it brings government closer to the voters. That is,
the people who have the responsibility of creating City policy as well as operating the gears of
municipal government are directly elected by the citizens. The elected officials are
accountable for both administration and the oversight of municipal functions. A weakness
with this form of government is the lack of any real executive leader since decision authority
ultimately rests with the governing body as a group. Responsibility for operations is shared by
all members of the City Council, which gives the municipality administration by committee.
Strong consistent direction depends on maintaining a general consensus, which may be
difficult.
This form of local government is the principal form used in North Carolina. It
predominates as a type dramatically for those local governments with a population of under
5,000 persons. In Northwest the City Council consists of five elected members and the Mayor
all of whom are elected by the people. As with most municipalities the governing board in
Northwest is elected on a nonpartisan basis and at large by the City's registered voters. Terms
of office are staggered to ensure a degree of continuity in municipal affairs and a certain
amount of experience on the Council.
The General Statutes require the following officers be appointed by a municipal
government:
CLERK -- — (Ms. Joyce Bragg) The clerk is responsible for giving the proper notices of
regular and special meetings of the governing board, keeping an accurate record of the board's
proceedings and being the custodian of all City records.
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11
a
BUDGET OFFICER — — (Ms. Joyce Bragg)The budget officer receives budget requests and
ensures municipal compliance with budget preparation and administrative requirements
required by the General Statutes. In the Mayor - Council form of government any City officer
or employee, including the Mayor (if he or she agrees), may serve as budget officer.
FINANCE OFFICER — -- (Ms. Joyce Bragg) The finance officer keeps the accounts and
disburses City funds consistent with the General Statutes. These duties may also be conferred
upon the budget officer.
ATTORNEY — — (Mr. John Wessell) The attorney serves as the legal advisor to the
Council. He serves at the pleasure of the Council.
TAX COLLECTOR — — (Ms. Joyce Bragg) The tax collector has the responsibility for
collecting property, privilege license, and all other taxes due a municipality and to fulfill the
obligations imposed by the General Statutes on tax collection. Any officer or employee can be
appointed tax collector except a member of the governing body. The finance officer may be
appointed to that office only with the consent of the Local Government Commission.
The City of Northwest has four employees. They are the City Clerk, Deputy Clerk,
Police Chief, and a Maintenance Man. The City Clerk and Deputy Clerk work part-time.
The Police Chief is a full-time employee. The Maintenance Man works as necessary. As a
result of the lack of a large staff the members of the elected Board are often directly involved
in government administration. The basic administration plan in Northwest is direct
supervision. In this situation the governing Board appoints and removes all Department heads.
Since there is only one employee, this style of governance seems to fit the City nicely. In this
situation, the Council is ultimately responsible for the for the operation of all City
Departments and activities. This plan is well suited for small Cities and seems to work well in
Northwest. This can be a cumbersome means of handling the administrative function if a
municipality has many departments.
The City is currently considering the hiring of an assistant City Clerk. A Police Chief
will also be hired in the near future.
Section 2: CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT
A. LAND SUITABILITY
The majority of the city's land area is flat. There are some relatively minor
fluctuations in the land surface but these are minor. Most variations in elevation occur
adjacent creeks and tributaries. There are freshwater swamps and marshes within the City
which are unsuitable for development. For the location of the scattered freshwater wetlands
which are regulated by the Corps, a specific on site analysis must occur. This analysis must
be performed by a qualified wetlands consultant or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff.
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Since there is currently no sewer system available within the City, wastewater is
treated by septic systems. To determine the suitability of land for septic tank usage, the City
relies on the Brunswick County Health Department. Where septic systems will not operate,
engineering assistance must be obtained. When proposed septic fields are also wetland areas,
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers regulatory staff personnel must also grant permission to
disturb the land. The Town discourages high and low intensity land uses on soils which are
not suitable for development activity.
The Soil Survey of Brunswick County North Carolina (by William L. Barnhill of the
Soil Conservation Service, issued 1986) on the GENERAL SOIL MAP (compiled in 1984)
contained therein shows the area which has now become known as the City of Northwest as
having predominantly 2 types of Soils. These are: (1) GOLDSBORO-LYNCHBURG-
RAINS: Which are described as nearly level, very poorly drained soils that have a loamy
subsoil; on uplands. These soils are found on broad smooth interstream areas and slightly
convex divides in the western and central parts of the County. The mapped areas are irregular
in shape. This map unit makes up about 18% of Brunswick County. It is about 30%
Goldsboro soils, 22% Lynchburg soils, 20% Rains soils, and 28% soils of minor extent. (2)
BAYMEADE-BLANTON-NORFOLK: Which are described as nearly level to gently sloping,
well drained and moderately well drained soils that have a loamy subsoil; on uplands.
Typically these mapped areas are long and narrow. This map unit makes up about 12% of
Brunswick County. It is approximately 70% Baymeade soils, 13% Blanton soils, 7% Norfolk
soils, and 10% soils of minor extent.
The soils in Brunswick County which make up prime farmland are Foreston loamy fine
sand, Goldsboro fine sandy loam, Johns fine sandy loam, Norfolk loamy fine sand, and
Onslow fine sandy loam. The general location of each of these types of soil is found in the
maps accompanying the document referenced above.
About 75,598 acres, or about 14 percent of Brunswick County meets the soil
requirement for prime farmland. (This is the 1986 estimate. It is acknowledged that the
number of acres defined as prime farmland has decreases since 1986.) Some of these soils
exist within the Northwest area.. Prime farmland soils may be those presently in use as
cropland, pasture, or woodland, or they may be in other uses. They either are used for
producing food or fiber or are available for these uses. Urban or built up land and water areas
cannot be considered prime farmland. (Urban or built up land is defined by the Soil
Conservation Service as any contiguous unit of land 10 acres or more in size that is used for
such purposes as housing, industrial, and commercial sites, sites for institutions or public
buildings, small parks, golf courses, cemeteries, railroad yards, airports, sanitary landfills,
sewage treatment plants, and water control structures.) For more specific information, consult
the maps included in the Soil Survey of Brunswick County North Carolina, 1986. For
detailed information a site survey is required.
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1
IB. CARRYING CAPACITY
There is a large amount of land available for development activity within the City of
Northwest. (This is the second largest municipality in terms of land area in Brunswick County
and presently has a population of 691 persons.) This gives the City great potential for growth.
Much of the land available is also suitable for development. Most of the land within the City
is in private ownership in relatively large tracts. There are 2 primary reasons why land within
the City may not be available for development: (1) The land is already developed; and,
(2) Freshwater wetlands exist on the property.
North Carolina has authority (through the Clean Water Act) to review federally
permitted wetland disturbances, which in many cases may be dredge and fill, to be sure the
activities do not damage wetlands to the point they no longer support their designated use.
The NC Division of Environmental Management (DEM) performs this review, which is called
a 401 Water Quality Certification. (There is a rule change under consideration by the NC
Environmental Management Commission which would extend water quality classifications to
wetlands based on their values, not just those adjacent water, and would clarify the procedure
for water quality certification. All CAMA permitted wetland disturbances require a 401
certification.) Because of the limited amount of water (streams, rivers, etc.) in Northwest
wetlands certification for areas next to water bodies is of limited utility.
The main type of important wetlands in Northwest are freshwater marshes and seasonal
wetlands. Freshwater wetlands are perhaps the most familiar type of wetland. They vary
from the roadside ditch with cattails to the edges of vast lakes, ponds, and rivers. Beavers are
busy little wetlands engineers and these animals are known to inhabit portions of the City of
Northwest. Where they thrive, they are often instrumental in creating wetlands and marshy
type habitat. Freshwater wetlands are important habitat areas. Seasonal wetlands fill with
winter rains and generally dry out during summer and fall. They are as ordinary as a puddle
in the backyard and yet are also critical, especially as breeding habitat, for a wide variety of
important species of animals. Since these seasonal wetlands are often smaller than one acre,
they are not well protected by existing regulations. Savannas are also known to exist in the
Northwest area. These are often found in the NC coastal plain next to pocosins. Savannas are
unusually diverse habitat and support as many as 52 plant species per square meter. These are
open, flat grassy areas with little other vegetative cover other than an occasional long leaf
pine. The areas where they meet a pocosin are known as ecotones and these areas often
contain the Venus flytrap and rough -leaf loosestrife. The endangered red -cockaded
woodpecker also lives in savannas because it prefers old growth pines.
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act enables State and federal agencies to regulate
development activities occurring in wetlands. The 401 (which was previously discussed) and
404 programs require permits before disturbing wetland areas. The NC Division of Coastal
Management currently reviews U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (404) permits issued, for
projects over one-third of an acre in size, for consistency with Coastal Resources Commission
13

regulations and policies and those policies contained in local Land Use Plans. The vast
majority of permits requested are granted. It is not the intent of this process to deny people
the use of their land. The process gives officials the opportunity to work with people, and in
some case projects are modified, to lessen impacts on wetlands.
The ability of Northwest to support and to allow development activity is dependant on
both its natural and man-made systems. This is a small City. New growth is possible. New
growth is desired and in the City of Northwest there is much land available. The land
available is suitable for a variety of types of development (both residential and commercial).
Policies contained in this plan will help to determine where development will be encouraged.
(See Section 4: POLICIES FOR GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT.) There have been no new
subdivisions within the City of Northwest since the passage of the Subdivision Regulations on
June 29, 1995.
Section 3: ESTIMATED DEMAND
A. WATER
It is expected that a water system will be constructed within the planning period. This
will be an important growth mechanism for the City. As it currently exists, Northwest
residents all use individual wells. The water is often founds to contain hydrogen sulfide which
gives a peculiar odor to the water. The individual wells are shallow, about 20 - 30 feet, and
the water is all surficial in source. (In the City there is no large aquifer available with a large
supply of high quality water.) The Pee Dee sandstone aquifer is found in the area but it is
deep and it is brackish and therefore not useable for human consumption.
The City of Northwest currently has no public or private water systems available to
provide potable water for residents or businesses within the City. The feasibility of a water
system is currently under study by the engineering firm of Carnahan Proctor & Lyons. A
preliminary application has been made to Farmer's Home Administration (FHA) for water
system funding and is currently (December 1995) being finalized. The City plans to serve
each residence or business. The City engineer gives a preliminary estimate of 263 water users
and an average monthly bill is estimated at $44.16. The average monthly cost figure is
expected to decrease if a grant is received from the FHA.
The construction cost estimates//total project cost estimates are shown below for the 3
alternatives:
Alternative_ (1) •-Residents connect to the County water system
($1,253,655//$1,531,520).
Alternative (2) *-The City purchases water in bulk from the County. City sells to
residents or other users. City maintains the system and bills users
($1,257,655//$1,536,190).
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Alternative (3) *-City installs wells supplying water within the City. City maintains
the system and bills ($1,336,805//$1,633,561).
The availability of water will be an important incentive to growth in the City of
Northwest.
B. SEWER
The City of Northwest currently has no public sewer system. There are no private
sewer systems (or package treatment plants) within the municipal boundary. There are none
of these facilities planned. All development activity within the City currently relies on septic
tanks for the treatment of sewerage. This has been a problem in some areas as lands which
were only barely suitable for septic systems have received permits and consequently these
systems are not operating, in all cases, at peak levels of efficiency. Some of these problem
systems were addressed in the 1995 City of Northwest Community Development Block Grant
application to the North Carolina Division of Community Assistance for scattered site home
rehabilitation for homes occupied by low income persons which were found to be in severe
need of repair.
The City of Northwest may, at some point in the future, be able to support a public sewerage
system. It is not currently possible due to financial considerations.
C. LEVEL OF USE FOR SCHOOLS, ROADS, & HOSPITALS
Schools
Public school students in the City of Northwest attend the following schools:
Grades K-3 attend Lincoln Primary School. The Lincoln Primary School building was
designed to hold 525 pupils. They currently have 790 students enrolled. They are operating
at approximately 150% of design capacity. This school is on Lincoln Road in the vicinity of
Leland. (Belville Elementary, which is currently under construction, will open in 1996.)
Grades 4-8 attend Leland Middle School. The building was designed to hold 800 student and
currently has 955 students enrolled. The school is operating at approximately 119% of design
capacity. The school is on Old Fayetteville Road in the Town of Leland.
Grades 9 - 12 attend North Brunswick High School. The school was designed to hold 750-800
students and currently has 600 enrolled. They are operating at approximately 80% of design
capacity. The school is located on Scorpion Drive in Leland.
It is expected that the tremendous growth of Brunswick County will continue to
1 pressure the local school system into expansion plans. This will be a costly undertaking. The
11
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City of Northwest recognizes the importance of basic and advanced educational opportunities
as an important means of enhancing life for future generations. The City will work closely
with the Brunswick County Board of Education and the County School System to coordinate
plans and to achieve growth in educational services concurrent with population growth.
It appears that despite the fact that an elementary school is already being constructed in
northern Brunswick County, other school buildings may be necessary in the near future. The
City of Northwest wishes to work with elected officials and education facilities planners on the
location of these schools. City officials have much expertise to offer on the availability of
land in northern Brunswick County and especially within the City of Northwest and hereby
freely offer assistance to those officials. Future schools sites within the City of Northwest
would be welcomed.
Roads
The City of Northwest received $19,958.83 in Powell Bill funds during fiscal year
1995. These funds are allocated according to a formula based upon population and the
number of miles of City owned and maintained roads. The amount of these funds varies, from
year to year, based on changes in these criteria by other municipalities, by changes in the City
of Northwest, and, by changes in the amount of dollars available. The funds were used this
year to repair existing roadways (patching, smoothing, repairing holes, etc.). There are
currently more roads in the City which need repair. The City of Northwest Roads Committee -
has worked with City Council on the prioritization of repairs necessary. The work of this
Committee is expected to continue through the planning period covered by this document.
There is not a traffic congestion problem within the City of Northwest. Traffic counts
and urban transportation type planning concerns have not begun to be thought about by
citizens except in meetings of the City Council or Planning Board where land development
activity is discussed.
There have been no Department of Transportation traffic counts within Northwest's
planning jurisdiction. The last area counts were for 1994. For that portion of U.S. Highway
74-76 which borders the City of Northwest at its southern boundary the 1994 count was
13,300 vehicles per day. (This figure was from the NC DOT Traffic Survey Office which
may be reached at 1-919-733-9770.) This is a busy road which bypasses this community but
does not serve to funnel traffic into the City. It is true that City residents use this highway to
get to area urban centers and to return. So a portion of this 13,300 vehicles per day includes
those vehicles which exit Northwest and travel during the day to other areas and who may
return to the City at evening time. Local traffic, within the City, is light.
Determining capacities for roadways is a tricky business. Under "ideal" circumstances
a two lane road can carry 2,800 vehicles per hour. (So says the NC DOT Traffic Engineering
Office, who reported this figure from the federal Highway Capacity manual.) That is 1,400
16

each direction at 60 MPH. Under ideal circumstances a four lane road can carry 2,000 per
hour per lane per side at 60 MPH. Ideal circumstances must be rare. Any side interference
makes matters worse. Any drivers who do not drive a steady speed make matters worse and
any driver who does not drive the "ideal" speed makes matters worse.
The City of Northwest is not now plagued with traffic or transportation problems. The
Town is willing to work with the County and the NC DOT on any necessary improvements.
Review of the Transportation Improvement Program for 1995 indicates there are currently no
plans for improvement within the Northwest area. There are also no improvements planned in
the vicinity of the City which would benefit from City interaction with the planners. There is,
however, discussion ongoing regarding the outer loop around the City of Wilmington which
would be of great interest and concern to City officials. No further area transportation
planning for major thoroughfares or new traffic routes should take place without involving the
City of Northwest. As improvements within the City of Northwest become necessary the City
will play a role in planning these roadways.
aospiAgis
The New Hanover Regional Medical Center is the closest hospital to the City of
Northwest. The facility was opened in June of 1967. This is a 628 bed publicly owned
facility with 320 doctors on staff. There are approximately 3,000 persons employed at this
comprehensive health care facility which offers a full range of medical services to patients.
Another alternative, in the vicinity, is The Brunswick Hospital. This facility as built in
1978. This was a former County Hospital which is now in private ownership. (Owned as of
1995 by Columbia HCA (Hospital Corporation of America), which is headquartered in
Nashville, Tennessee.) This is a 60 bed hospital serving (primarily) Brunswick County. The
Brunswick Hospital has 2 operating rooms and a staff of 15 doctors. If a patient is found to be
very ill, beyond the capacity of The Brunswick Hospital to serve, `the patient is transported via
VitaLink to New Hanover Regional Medical Center or, depending on the emergency, by
helicopter to other medical facilities. -
D. POPULATION AND ECONOMY
The current population of the City is believed to be 691 persons. (It should be
mentioned that this projection was made in mid 1995, and was based on projections from the
Office of State Planning. Figures released in the FALL of 1995 show the 1994 official
estimate of population to be 700 persons. The City believes its population is now in excess of
this figure. ' We will continue use the original estimate for purposes of consistency within this
document. Please see Attachment F for additional information on these predictions.) The
City has an abundant amount of land available and suitable for projected growth.
The economy of the City of Northwest is expected to continue to grow at rate which
17

will be comparable to, though it will lag behind somewhat in the near future, the rest of
Brunswick County.
E. SEASONAL POPULATION
There is no anticipated growth expected within the planning period which will cause
seasonal population to swell to the extent that it will become an important or even a significant
planning concern for the City of Northwest.
F. LOCAL OBJECTIVES CONCERNING GROWTH
The City of Northwest wishes to continue to grow. City officials believe the City
occupies an enviable location. The City is located just off a four lane major highway which is
the main transportation route (east - west) between the urban areas of Wilmington and
Charlotte. The City is located just west of the main (north - south) transportation corridor east
of Interstate 95, which is U.S. Highway 17, and very close to the Interstate 40 terminus at
Wilmington. The City is just north and west of the well known and beautiful beach resort
areas of Brunswick County and (also nearby) Myrtle Beach, SC. The City of Northwest is
located within one of the fastest growing Counties in North Carolina.
All of these factors, when considered as a whole seem to scream future growth to the
elected and appointed Boards within the City of Northwest. The area (which became an
incorporated municipality in 1993) has not grown dramatically within the last 20 years. Other
Brunswick County communities, particularly the beach resorts and those areas closer to the
urban center of Wilmington, have already begun to grow quite rapidly. As more people
choose to locate in the area, more businesses will also locate in the vicinity of Northwest.
The City sees their lack of growth over the last 20 years as a benefit. As much of the
rampant growth in the County has passed this community by, the City has been left as it was.
The City's leaders have seen the experiences of other communities around the region. The
lack of the recent accelerated growth experienced in much of Brunswick County has left
Northwest a quaint place. Northwest is strongly rooted in the past yet looking toward their
future. Northwest's small town charm is also not gone. The agricultural roots of this
community are still apparent and obvious. The City has planning tools in place which will
allow future growth to be controlled and which will enhance the best of the City's attractive
qualities. The City of Northwest is poised on the brink of a new future. The objective is
controlled growth in concert with the natural environment and according to the City's
Ordinances. The growth expected will be slow, yet steady, with residential growth expected,
primarily, within the planning period. Some commercial growth is also possible. It is the
generalized desire of City officials to accommodate growth.
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Section 4: POLICIES FOR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
It is the policy of the City of Northwest to protect area cultural as well as natural
resources, including air, land and water. The City will strive to provide this protection
through the passage of well thought out land use regulation. Policies for growth and
development adopted by the City of Northwest will be comprehensive in scope. The primary
focus of consideration will be those areas within the jurisdictional boundary of the City. The
City also recognizes that jurisdictional lines do not necessarily limit the interest of the City.
Northwestern Brunswick County is rapidly growing and is facing tremendous change. This
municipality, and the people living herein, represent the future of this City. As an important
part of the future of a vital and growing coastal southeastern North Carolina, the City will
tcontinue to work with Brunswick County, neighboring municipalities, and other interests to
build a future which will be in the best interest of all residents. It is recognized that a healthy
future is principally based upon wise decisions in the present. The City of Northwest's elected
and appointed Boards are aware of their responsibility to the future.
A. RESOURCE PROTECTION
1) Constraints to Development
Development activity in areas subject to natural or man-made hazards shall be carefully
controlled. It is the policy of the City to minimize development and to encourage low
intensity land uses (i.e., open space and/or recreational type uses) in areas subject to natural or
man-made hazardous conditions. It shall be the policy of the City of Northwest to ensure
strict compliance with all state and federal regulations concerning wetland protection.
! The City of Northwest has a tremendous land area currently in open and undeveloped
use. These lands are a great asset for the community and are waiting and available for
environmentally sound development activity. It is recognized by City officials that there are
certain limitations to development which occur naturally and the areas which contain these
limitations are avoided by the wise developer. Under certain limited conditions, development
activity in areas with constraints may be possible. Any development should always happen in
such a way as to avoid creating problems to neighboring property owners or future owners of
the property being developed, and cultural and environmental artifacts or species which are
irreplaceable or limited in number should always be protected.
It is the policy of the City of Northwest to limit development activity in those areas
which have soils which are unsuitable for development. The federal programs to protect
wetlands areas are fully supported by the City. To the.extent possible the areas which area
identified as having soils which are currently unsuitable for development, are identified as
Agriculture/Forestry areas within the City's Zoning Ordinance. This Ordinance provides for
limited use of these areas.
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The City has no current plans for the development of a sewer system. (Officials
believe there will not be a public sewer system within the planning period.) It is, however,
believed by City officials that one day a sewer system will be possible. Before that day
arrives, the City's policy on development of areas where soils are currently unsuitable will be
re-evaluated. The primary means of handling sewerage in the City of Northwest is by septic'
tank. Until such time as public sewerage becomes available, the continued use of septic
systems, or package treatment plants (approved by the NC Division of Environmental
Management), within the City's planning jurisdiction is supported by City officials. The
policy of the City is to allow development activity in areas where soils will support the
activity, and where such activity is consistent with federal, local and State regulations. The
City will continue to work with the Brunswick County Public Health Department to identify
those areas which are suitable for septic systems.
There are areas within the City which are prone to flooding during severe storm
events. Shallow flooding along tributaries and streams such as Bear Branch, Fox Grape
Branch, Meeting House Branch, Double Run Branch, and Rattlesnake Branch is possible. The
City has not instituted a flood insurance program with the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA). The City, only having just formed in 1993, has focused on other priorities.
It is the intention of City officials to become a participant in the FEMA program. It is the
policy of the City of Northwest to limit development within those areas which are subject to
flood.
There are areas within the City which are in the 100 year floodplain. Since these areas
exist, and since no federal flood insurance is available, the property of some residents is at
risk due to flood and may be uninsured. It is possible, at some future time, due to non -
participation, the City may have sanctions placed upon it by the Agency (FEMA). City
officials wish to better protect the property of residents in an emergency by allowing the
opportunity to purchase insurance. The City wishes to participate in the FEMA program.
Effects of non -participation include:
(1) Federal flood insurance is not available.
(2) No federal grants or loans for buildings may be made in identified flood hazard areas.
(Includes all federal agencies (HUD, EPA, SBA, HHR, etc.).
(3) No federal disaster assistance may be provided in identified flood hazard areas for
permanent restorative construction and grants.
(4) No federal mortgage insurance may be provided in identified flood hazard areas. (This
included FHA, VA, FHA, etc.)
It is recognized that federal loans and guarantees not available as a result of non -
participation may cause decisions to be made by investors which would have otherwise
benefitted the City. Northwest officials will look into joining the National Flood Insurance
Program and to the subsequent availability of Federal Flood Insurance.
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(2) Areas of Environmental Concern
The Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) calls for the identification of important land
and water areas judged to be of greater than local significance. These areas are known as
Areas of Environmental Concern. The CRC in cooperation with local governments has
developed a permitting program for development activity in Areas of Environmental Concern.
The intent is not to stop development, but to insure the compatibility of development with the
continued productivity and value of certain critical land and water areas.
There are no Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's) within the planning jurisdiction
of the City of Northwest. The City Council recognizes the importance of a clean environment
and supports the protection of those special areas of our coast which have received this
designation by the Coastal Resources Commission. It is recognized that not all AEC's are
strictly coastal. Areas of natural significance, water supply watersheds, and areas which have
historic or archaeologic importance are also suitable for inclusion as an AEC according to the
designation criteria. (These criteria are in Subchapter 7H, of Chapter 15A, of the North
Carolina Administrative Code, and are available at the Wilmington, NC, Division of Coastal
Management Office.) Unfortunately, it is not known at this time that any areas exist within
the City of Northwest which would call for this special designation. City officials support the
NC Coastal Management program and are willing to assist in whatever manner possible with
the continuation of the work of this important agency.
(3) Development in Proximity to Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW's)
As a means of support for the continuation of a strong commercial fishing industry
within Brunswick County, the City of Northwest supports protection of the ORW areas within
coastal North Carolina (both in and out of the County) by favoring limited development
adjacent to these waters. The City's policy on development in and around streams and
tributaries within the Northwest area mirrors this concern. Dense or noxious industrial,
commercial, or residential development activity which would impair the resource (water)
around these sensitive natural features is discouraged. The City of Northwest supports ORW
rdesignation for any appropriate water bodies in Brunswick County.
(4) Fragile Land Areas
(a) Freshwater Swamps and Marshes
There are freshwater swamps and marsh areas within the City of Northwest. For the
most part, these areas are located around the various streams and branches within the City.
Development activity in these areas must be consistent with the current federal rules and
regulations governing wetlands development activity. This area is also subject to the
restrictions imposed by the City'_ s Subdivision Regulations which require wetlands
identification and review.. The Brunswick County Health Department is responsible for the
determination of whether or not a septic tank permit will be issued. It is the policy of the City
21

that development activity (including roads) is discouraged in swamps and marshes and
development proposed in wetlands should be limited. This policy is reflected in the Zoning
Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations.
(b) Manmade Hazard Areas
The City of Northwest is located approximately 33 road miles from the CP&L nuclear
power plant. The City does not consider the location of this plant to be of great planning
concern. In reality, and in a case of extreme emergency, it is recognized that this proximity
may have implications for the City. The City accepts assurances from the U. S. Department
of Energy, and the County and State Departments of Emergency Management that the plant is
safe. Accordingly, City land use planning activity will not be governed by the location of this
plant. The City would be evacuated in case of extreme emergency. The City Council will
review and comment upon any proposals for plant expansion which seem to have implications
for the City. The general policy of the City is to oppose any expansion of this facility. It is
the position of the City that any CP&L proposals concerning this plant which will possibly
have impacts for the outlying areas should have mutual agreement and consent from the NC
Utilities Commission, the County, and those municipalities located therein.
The Sunny Point Military Depot is not recognized as a hazard to the City. There are
no airports, no chemical storage areas, no industrial (or industrial type) manufacturing
concerns producing hazardous products or by-products in the City of Northwest. There are no
other known manmade hazards either in or around the City of Northwest. It is the policy of
the City to promote clean industry. It is the policy of the City to oppose hazardous and
noxious or dangerous facilities which may wish to locate within the Northwest area.
(c) Archaeologic or Historic Areas
Correspondence from Mr. David Brook, Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer, of
the NC Division of Archives & History, dated September 27, 1995, indicates there are no
recorded archaeologic or historic sites within the City of Northwest. It is important to note,
however, the area has not been surveyed. The possibility exists that archaeological sites
ranging from the prehistoric to the historic period may be located within the City. The City is
known to be situated on what was once the 2.162-acre estate of Samuel Rowell (1790-1857).
According to historian Don Lennon, Mr. Rowell "married Charlotte Skipper (1794-1869) in
1810 and they made their home at the 'Old Homestead' at Northwest in Brunswick County.
Samuel was involved in a variety of enterprises ..... His 'Red House' ordinary and store
apparently served as a stage coach stop and a popular resting place for travelers during the
1830's and 1840's."
It is the policy of the City to preserve historic properties and archaeologic sites. The.
City recognizes its heritage. City officials wish to preserve cultural artifacts of all types which
may exist within the planning jurisdiction of Northwest. Development activity, which would
22

LA
negatively effect historic or archaeologic resources will only be considered possible in light of
the ways these resources may be preserved or protected. Any outright destruction or
elimination of a resource of this type is prohibited.
(d) Prime Farmland
A large percentage of the land area inside Northwest's corporate limits consists of
prime farmland. (These areas are defined in the Brunswick County Soil Survey dated
' November, 1986.) As these areas are also suitable for development and as the City wishes to
grow, it is the policy of the City that these areas be carefully developed. City officials
recognized that much of the community's charm is associated with the rural background and
the quiet slow pace of life enjoyed by all residents. Development will be consistent with the
requirements of the City's Subdivision Regulations and Zoning Ordinance.
(e) Wildlife Habitat Areas
There are no publicly owned wildlife areas within the City of Northwest. There are
also no NC Gamelands areas, designated by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, within
the City. There are no known private wildlife sanctuaries within the City of Northwest or its
environs. There are, however, extensive wooded areas which are known to contain a wide
variety of flora and fauna which are indigenous to the area. It is City policy to support and
protect wildlife. Areas which are designated, and which are a suitable environment for
wildlife, shall be supported by the City. Areas which are privately owned shall be the
responsibility of the owner. The City envisions no circumstance, aside from possible gift or
inheritance (which would be considered carefully before acceptance), whereby the City would
become the owner of a large tract suitable for wildlife habitat on a large scale. Land lying
fallow, whether it be woodland or field (and not being used for storage of any type), is
completely consistent with City policy and is supported. Any unused land which may be
donated for public purposes to the City, the State, or to a Land Trust, would be consistent
with City policy intent.
(f) Hurricane & Flood Evacuation Needs & Plans
The City of Northwest City Council supports the Brunswick County Emergency
Management Department's Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery & Evacuation
Plan for Hurricane and Flood Evacuation. A complete copy of this Plan is available from the
County Emergency Management Office.
It is the policy of the City to:
--Discourage high intensity uses and large structures from being constructed within the 100
year flood plain, erosion prone areas, and other areas susceptible to hurricane and other storm
event flooding.
1 23

--Consider purchasing parcels located within hazard areas or rendered unbuildable by storms
or other events for the purpose of recreation. Developers may also be required to provide
such properties as open space under circumstances related to the issuance of a conditional use
permit or under circumstances related to the subdivision of land.
--Continue to enforce the NC Building Code, particularly those provisions which require
construction standards to meet wind resistive factors (i.e., design, wind velocity).
--Encourage the placement of utilities underground for all new development.
(5) Protection of Potable Water
Drinking water is provided within the City of Northwest through individual wells.
These wells are surficial and the supply consist of saturated sand. Private wells in the area are
shallow (20-30 feet) and the water available is hard (has a high iron content) and contains
hydrogen sulfide which emits an odor.
Another source of drinking water may soon be available through an agreement with
Brunswick County. The County's public system draws water from the Cape Fear River. The
feeder lines for the County system are very close to the City of Northwest. The City has an
interest in obtaining County water. For purposes of determining the financial feasibility of
such an undertaking, the City has in progress a water system feasibility study. The study will
explore the possibilities of a cooperative agreement on the supply of public water. (The study
is being prepared by Carnahan, Proctor, Lyons, & Associates, Inc., of Charlotte, NC. The
principal engineer is Mr. T. Robert Lyons, Jr.)
For the future, and with respect to groundwater resources which are, and which will
remain, the only source of potable water within the City, the City fully supports the Division
of Environmental Management's (DEM) rules regarding development activity near
groundwater source areas. City policy is to enhance the protection of these areas and to
provide for groundwater recharge areas consistent with DEM's rules, the Zoning Ordinance,
and the Subdivision Regulations. Any water intensive industrial or manufacturing type users
will be carefully scrutinized before being allowed to locate within the City of Northwest. It is
the policy of the City to carefully protect the available groundwater resources.
(6) Use of Package Treatment Plants
The City of Northwest will support the construction and use of package treatment
plants which are approved and permitted by the NC Division of Environmental Management.
If any package treatment plants are approved, the City will support, through its Subdivision
Regulations, creation of a specific contingency plan requiring and specifying how ongoing
private operation and maintenance of the plant will be provided. Details providing for
assumption of the plant into a public system at a later date (and alternatives to consider should
24

the operation fail) are also required and will be carefully analyzed before subdivision approval
is given.
(7) Stormwater Runoff
The City of Northwest is located in close proximity to wetlands associated with the
Cape Fear River. Because of this location, and as a result of the rural character of present day
City life, City residents recognize the value of water quality maintenance. Ecologically fragile
and sensitive areas are recognized by elected officials, appointed officials, and residents as
areas which should be protected. It is the policy of the City of Northwest to support state
regulations protecting bodies of water and the environment from the harmful effects of
stormwater runoff resulting from development activity (roads, bridges, etc.).
The flooding of roads in the City following a rain event is a critical problem which
needs to be dealt with immediately. The runoff associated with storms has made road
conditions, particularly conditions on those unpaved minor roads through local neighborhoods,
dangerous. The problem is currently being resolved through the expenditure of the City's
Powell Bill funds. In the future, the subdivision review process in the City of Northwest has
been created to include careful consideration of stormwater plans for lots and roads. NC
Department of Transportation officials will be consulted on all future public road projects. All
future roads constructed within the City of Northwest must be constructed to the minimum
standards of the NC Department of Transportation for subdivision roads, must be paved, and
must be consist with all Division of Environmental Management, and NC Division of Land
Quality, rules and regulations regarding stormwater runoff and the retention of stormwater.
The City of Northwest has a drainage problem. Ditching of areas of the City, which
was performed in the past, was done in a way which has seemed to exacerbate the present day
problem of flooding. The City wishes to work with the NC Department of Transportation and
other agencies on relieving the problem of flooding following storm events or an extended
period of rainy weather. It is the intention of the City to create a master drainage plan as a
means of flood reduction and to improve environmental conditions.
(8) Industrial Impacts
City policy on industrial impacts on the natural environment indicate these impacts
should be minimal. Industrial development that complies with the standards of the City of
Northwest Zoning Ordinance is acceptable within the City limit. It is the policy of the City
that industrial development should first be clean and should provide jobs to local residents.
Economic development activity in Brunswick County is, generally, favored by the City. (The
City has some reservations about the long-term benefit to residents of industry which is
noxious, unpleasant, etc.) The City will work with and promote success for the Leland
Industrial Park, Federal Paper, Dupont, Wright Chemical Corporation, CP&L, and other area
job creating entities. Northwest officials believe that the positive effect achieved through
25

successfully locating one industry in the area may be a success which can be capitalized upon
and they are eager for this success. The City will work with the Brunswick County Economic
Development Office, the Cape Fear Council of Governments, the NC Department of
Commerce, area Chambers of Commerce, Committees of 100, and the Southeastern North
Carolina Economic Development Commission on the recruitment and the location of clean
industry in the vicinity of Northwest.
Any industry that may be harmful to the human population through the possible
pollution of air, land or water will be reviewed carefully before being allowed to locate within
the City. The City plans to amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow certain types of industry
only as a special use. The special use conditions imposed will, in each case, be the means of
protection the City will provide for its residents.
B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
(1) . Productive Agricultural Lands
A review of the Brunswick County Soils Survey shows that the City of Northwest
contains a substantial amount of those soils which can be characterized as prime farmland.
These soils are also suitable for residential, commercial, or possible clean industrial type
development activity.
There are few farms actually in operation within the City limits. The City wishes to
preserve the quiet, bucolic, and pastoral, scenic rural character that the existence of the few
farms in operation give to the area. The City welcomes the visual relief and open spaces this
type of operation provides residents of the municipality. It is therefore the policy of the City
of Northwest that agricultural uses of land within the City will not be discouraged. The
uninhibited widespread use of substances (i.e., pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers) which
pose a threat (or which may pose a threat) to human health are discouraged. The storage of
these substances within areas where no danger to the human population is created is suggested
and will be required, as possible, through existing State and federal regulation, and the City's
Zoning Ordinance.
Continued agricultural use of the City's remaining farmland is anticipated and
encouraged within the planning period. Certain agricultural type operations are discouraged
by policy of the City of Northwest. These operations include agriculture -livestock type
operations where many animals are confined together and raised for sale to meat processing
and manufacturing concerns. The agriculture -livestock limitations do not apply to any animals
ordinarily considered pets (dogs, cats, birds, pot-bellied pigs, etc.) Any requests for new
agricultural type operations will be considered in light of this policy. The means of
enforcement for this policy will be the Zoning Ordinance.
26

(2) Commercial Forest Lands
The City has much open and forested land available. It is the policy of the City to
support the efficient planting and harvesting of commercial forest lands. These forest lands
should be located in upland areas or in areas away from rivers, creeks, branches, or
Mtributaries. Harvesting of timber near waters will be discouraged to protect water quality.
Prior to harvesting, planting, or clearing in wetlands, commercial forestry operations
' must have a wetlands survey. This activity is regulated by the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers. An on -site evaluation of the wetlands resource is required, as a means of
assessment and possible damage mitigation, and must be done by a qualified consultant or a
representative of the Corps of Engineers.
Commercial forestry operations are permitted in the City of Northwest only within the
areas defined as Agriculture/Forestry within the Zoning Ordinance.
(3) Existing & Potential Mineral Production Areas
There are no existing mineral production areas within the City of Northwest. There
are also no areas known to have potential for mineral production. It is not expected that
mineral production areas will be discovered. It is the policy of the City to prohibit such
operations within the City's planning jurisdiction.
(4) Commercial & Recreational Fisheries
' The City of Northwest has no commercial fishing or fish processing operations located
within the City's planning jurisdiction. The City also has no recreational fishing resources
available. City residents, of course, recognize the importance of the fisheries resource to the
County. It is the policy of the City of Northwest to work with other regional interests to
maintain or improve the quality of water and the abundance of the fisheries resource available
to area residents and visitors.
(5) Off -Road Vehicles
Off -road vehicles are owned by many residents of Northwest as a means of assistance
to perform work tasks associated with employment. These and other residents also own and
enjoy these vehicles for personal tasks associated with the pleasant rural lifestyle enjoyed by
residents. The vehicles are also enjoyed for recreational pursuits. It is the policy of the City
of Northwest to allow private property owners and their friends, visitors, acquaintances, and
other persons to whom they may have given permission, to enjoy freely the ability to use any
portion of that private property available and to enjoy that same property by whatever means
and to the maximum extent possible. The ability of one person to enjoy full use of his or her
property does not extend to the point where another person's right to enjoy their property is
1 27

infringed upon. Consequently, the City has the authority, and will exercise the authority,
through its police powers, to abate nuisance noises and health hazards. The City also does not
encourage and will not condone the wanton destruction of any vegetation which may be or
which may contain threatened or endangered species. It is the policy, of the City to not allow
off -road vehicle use that would cause erosion or substantial damage to land forms. This policy
on off -road vehicles is not pertinent to public works projects or emergency vehicles. I
(6) Residential, Commercial, & Industrial Land Development Impacts
'
City policy is to encourage future growth to occur in an orderly manner. It is the
intention of City officials that development impacts on the environment be negligible and that
the impacts of all development take into consideration those factors which will enhance the
quiet, rural character and quality of life enjoyed by residents. Residential development will be
encouraged to occur in a manner which will not overload traffic conditions. Subdivision
regulations will be revised as a means of implementing this policy. The development of new
streets and roads as a part of the residential growth process will be carefully studied before a
new subdivision is approved. Utilities provisions required as a part of the Ordinance will be
revised, as necessary, to allow future residents the opportunity to enjoy those same qualities
,
which have made Northwest such an attractive place and which have served to draw new
residential development to the City.
,
Commercial development is currently desired by City officials. The City wishes to
work with business owners, recruiters, and interested parties who may be engaged in the
process of finding a place to. locate business in the City. Commercial activity which would
add to the economic base of the City would be welcomed by City officials provided that the
activity is environmentally safe, clean, and consistent with current State, federal, and local
regulatory requirements. Development activity which would be harmful to the property values
or quality of life of those residents already established is discouraged.. Compatibility of
proposed development with the current pattern of development (already established) is desired.
Industrial development policy in the City of Northwest encourages industry to locate
away from those areas where residential development has occurred in the past. There is much
open and available land which would be suitable for industry. City policy is to encourage
industrial development activity within those areas currently undeveloped and away from
developed neighborhoods and centers of population. Industrial development should be of a
type which is compatible with residential development which may occur in relatively close
proximity to the industry. Industrial development which has water intensive requirements will
be discouraged as inappropriate within the City. Industrial development should be located, in
all cases, in.such a way as to avoid the use of residential or commercial streets by industrial
type traffic. I
Commercial or industrial developers shopping for a location should contact City
officials at their earliest convenience to discuss possible incentives for locating in the City. I
28
I

1 (7) Peat or Phosphate Mining's Impacts
The mining of peat or phosphate within the planning jurisdiction of the City of
Northwest is prohibited. It is extremely unlikely that any commercial quality deposits of these
products exist in the area. Other types of "mining are more likely. As mining operations are
generally unpleasant to the persons living in an area and as there are currently no mines in the
Northwest area, it will be the policy of the City to oppose any large scale mining operations
requesting to locate within the municipal boundary. The City also. wishes to go on record
opposing any mining operations which may wish to locate in Brunswick County near the City
of Northwest. The City will work with the County to oppose such operations.
C. ECONOARC AND COMMUNTY DEVELOPMENT
(1) Type of Development to be Encouraged
The City of Northwest encourages continued residential growth. Furthermore, the
City wishes residential growth to continue at an accelerated pace. The regulations which will
govern this growth will be the Zoning Ordinance and the Subdivision Regulations.
The City of Northwest encourages commercial growth. It will be the policy of the City
,to work with and to encourage commercial activity which is consistent with current
development patterns and which will provide jobs, make retail type amenities available to
residents, and provide for convenient shopping opportunities. It is the policy of the City to
encourage clean and quiet commercial type development. Any other development activity will
be carefully considered.
Industrial development is encouraged within the City in appropriate locations. The
.most appropriate areas for the conventional type "industry" are within the large uninhabited
wooded areas within the City. Residential areas are not to be disturbed by industry. Less
intrusive/intensive users may be located closer to the center of the community. Large stacks
spewing voluminous amounts of smoke, large amounts of traffic bothering residents at all
hours and traffic using up the road (through the rough treatment given by large, heavy trucks)
in this quiet community is not envisioned and will not be approved. Manufacturing concerns
are generally felt to be desirable. Large agricultural -livestock type operations are not
permitted. Large agricultural -vegetative type users are only allowed within the outlying areas
which are zoned Agriculture/Forestry.
The City policy on farming is to promote such activity. City officials discourage the
use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in areas close to any well systems. City officials
also wish to note that runoff into streams from farming activity has been recognized as a
problem within the State and the City strongly encourages the use of best management
practices, as recognized and promoted by the NC Division of Environmental Management, as
the most desirable means of protection. The City also supports the erosion control policies of
1 29

the NC Division of Land Quality and the wetland protection rules and regulations administered
and enforced by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The City supports Zoning regulations as
the means by which to control the location of farming activity within any municipal or County
planning jurisdiction.
(2) Type and Location of Industry Desired
The City, by policy, encourages industry which will allow the City to keep the
character that long-term residents of the Northwest area have come to enjoy. Industries which
create a significant amount of pollution (smoke, dust, glare, noise, vibrations, etc.) are
discouraged and should not locate in Northwest. This includes (but is not limited to) swine
and cattle, steel mills, electric power plants, paper manufacturing plants, chemical companies,
mining operations, explosives companies and others.
Desirable industry would be a big boost to the City and the City wishes to explore the
possibilities for this type of development with any parties who have an interest in the location.
The City will work both on its own and with all of the various area recruiters on the
possibility of locating desirable industry along a major four lane transportation corridor within
the center of the fastest growing county in North Carolina.
Industrial development would be a very desirable source of economic growth in
Northwest. The City desires responsible industrial development which will not adversely
affect the natural environment or the quality of life enjoyed by residents. Industrial sites
should be adjacent proposed water lines and must have an approved system of handling any
possible by-products or waste products, especially those which may be dangerous to human
beings. Industrial development should not infringe on established residential development
patterns.
(3) Local Commitment to Services Provision
It is the policy of the City of Northwest to continue to provide those services now
available to all areas of the City. The City is currently in the process of beginning to provide
municipal services to residents. Expected services within the planning period include:
municipal water, solid waste service, street lighting, roads paving and maintenance, planning,
City administration, police, housing rehabilitation, and parks/recreation. Other services are
possible. This is an exciting time for the young and growing City of Northwest. Services will
be provided as possible (with financial constraints considered) to all areas of the City. City
officials encourage interested citizens to become involved in municipal appointed Boards and
Committees so that all views may be shared with City decision makers on the important topic
of services provision.
Services will be extended to residents within one year, as required in the NC General
Statutes, to any areas which may in the future be annexed into the City. No annexations are
30

Icurrently planned.
(4) Urban Growth Patterns Desired
It is the policy of the City to encourage growth to occur on soils suitable for the
development activity proposed. Once the water lines are constructed, if the City chooses to
undertake such an operation, it will be City policy to promote development in areas adjacent to
existing water service lines. The City will use the Land Use Plan, the Subdivision
Regulations, and the Zoning Ordinance as the means to implement this policy and to direct all
future residential, commercial, and industrial type growth.
i(5) Redevelopment of Developed Areas
The most significant redevelopment issue facing Northwest through the planning period
is substandard housing. During the planning period the City will attempt to correct its worst
substandard housing conditions by taking the following steps:
(1) Enforcing the City's Minimum Housing Code;
(2) Applying for Community Development Block Grant funds;
(3) Applying for North Carolina Housing Finance Agency funds;
(4) Coordinating any redevelopment efforts with the Brunswick County Building
Inspections Department;
(5) Enforcing the Zoning Ordinance requirements on non -conforming uses.
The City of Northwest also recognizes a redevelopment concern connected with the
threat of hurricane, flood, tornado, or other natural disaster. The section of this document
which covers this area is entitled Storm Hazard Mitigation Post -Disaster Recovery. and
Evacuation Plans. Policies on redevelopment construction activity, following a catastrophic
storm event, are located in this section. It is the policy of the City to allow reconstruction of
structures demolished by natural disaster when the reconstruction complies with all existing
regulations. This is governed by the City's Zoning Ordinance.
It is the intention of the City, within the next year, to work with the Federal
Emergency Management Agency to allow residents who live within the 100-year floodplain
the opportunity to purchase Federal Flood Insurance.
(6) Commitment to State & Federal Programs
Northwest is receptive to State and federal programs that will provide some benefit to
the City, County, and region. It is the policy of the City to continue to fully support such
programs. Examples of such programs include: NC Division of Coastal Management
Planning Program, NC Division of Parks & Recreation Programs to fund recreation areas, NC
Division of Community Assistance & U. S. Department of Housing & Urban Development
1 31

Community Development Block Grant Program, NC Division of Travel and Tourism
promotion efforts, U. S. Army Corps of Engineers regulatory and permitting programs, NC
Department of Transportation road and bridge improvement programs, NC Division of
Environmental Management Water Quality Planning Program, Farmers Home Administration
loans for local water and sewer service projects, Federal Emergency Management Agency
Flood Insurance Program, NC Department of Commerce Industrial Recruiting Programs,
Southeastern Regional Economic Development Commission Economic Development
Programs, and others.
(7) Assistance to Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment Projects
The City of Northwest has no federally maintained channels within its jurisdiction.
City residents currently pay County, State, and federal taxes, all of which are used to some
extent to pay for the maintenance of these waterways. It is the policy of the City of Northwest
to not participate directly in the payment of any fees for channel maintenance. It is, however,
recognized that these dollars are being used correctly to promote national, international, and
interstate commerce as well as local commercial fishing opportunity and opportunity for
recreational boaters. Beach nourishment projects are also supported by the City of Northwest.
The City believes this is the best possible method of dealing with the erosion problem. The
City of Northwest, at this time, declines any opportunity for financial assistance to beach
nourishment projects.
(8) Energy Facility Siting & Development
The City of Northwest supports a clean and healthy rural lifestyle for its residents.
The City is concerned about the issue of energy facility siting to the extent that citizen's
health, safety, and welfare, may be effected. It is the policy of the City that energy facility
siting which will create jobs for local citizens is desirable. There are circumstances where this
policy will not be in effect. Those circumstances are as follows: (1) No transportation
through the City of dangerous materials is approved. No energy facility that violates this
standard will be approved. (2) No clear cutting of greater than 3 acres of wooded property is
allowed without buffers which will be constructed to shield all noise and visual blight created
by the development from area residents.
Any water resource intensive type development activity will be required to use
municipal water service once it becomes available. The availability of supply may render the
City as unavailable for large water users. Intensive industrial or commercial water users are
generally discouraged.
(9) Coastal & Estuarine Water Beach Access
It is the policy of City officials to support beach and estuarine water access projects
within Brunswick County and throughout coastal North, Carolina. It is not, however,
32

1
currently within the scope of things possible for the City of Northwest to participate directly in
providing funds for these access areas.
(10) Tourism
The City of Northwest strongly supports tourism. The City recognizes tourists as a
vital and important part of the economy of the region and the state. The City of Northwest
does not currently benefit from the booming tourism related economy enjoyed by other
' Brunswick County municipalities. It is the desire of the City to plan and to grow toward a
position where the tourist influx may be enjoyed to its maximum potential. It is believed that
this is possible in Northwest due to 2 basic factors: (1) The proximity of U.S. Highway 74-
76. (This is the primary east -west route for travelers and tourists in southeastern North
Carolina.) (2) The proximity to the major metropolitan area of Wilmington and the small
town, quaint, rural atmosphere enjoyed by local residents will be a draw to newcomers.
As a means of achieving the goal of enhancing tourism as a part of the Northwest
economy, it is the policy of the City of Northwest to support NC Department of
Transportation projects which will improve access to the region and the City.
It is the policy of the City of Northwest to work to maintain those quality of life factors
(quiet, low traffic, rural, etc.) which current residents of the City enjoy. It is felt by City
officials that these very qualities serve the City as a means by which to recruit residential and
commercial development. The City supports low density development and clean commercial
(or industrial/manufacturing) type development activity.
Northwest will support the activities of the NC Division of Travel and Tourism. The
City specially wishes to support the.monitoring of tourism.related industry and all efforts to
promote tourism related industry and commercial activity. The City wishes to cooperate, as
' possible, with the Cape Fear Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Brunswick County
Chambers of Commerce.
(11) Type of Density Desired
11
The City favors low density type development activity. Low density type development
occurs in the Agriculture Forestry Zoning District on lots which must be at least 20,000
square feet or larger. This type of development is consistent with the historical growth
patterns of the City and is in keeping with the long-term planning of the community. Much of
the City is zoned R-15, which requires 15,000 square feet per lot. The center of the City is
not an area easily identified by a particularly intense grouping of commercial or business
development concerns. The City is a actually a residentially populated area of the County
which is bound together by long-term common interests and the legally binding act of
incorporation (1993) by the North Carolina General Assembly.
33

Development is expected to continue through the planning period. City officials
believe the pace of development will actually accelerate during this time especially in
residential type development. Those areas within the City which are now vacant land will see
'
increasing pressure to become residential lots. It is expected that those areas of the City which
are marginally suited, or unsuited, for development will be developed last, if at all. It is City
policy to allow limited development on those lots which are marginally suitable for
development. All development is discouraged on those lots which will not accommodate a
particular development proposal with the current level of services available.
,
Continuing growth activity during the planning period in the City in the residential
neighborhoods is expected and desired. The City recognizes the strength of its location in
proximity to other population centers and anticipates that continuing residential growth will be
i
enhanced by the continuing growth of the County and other area regional centers of
population.
The City wishes to keep the "small Town" atmosphere which long-term residents have
come to love. The City would also like to see commercial shopping areas more conveniently
located, especially a grocery store and a pharmacy, in the City. Residents recognize that these
shops will require the City to grow before such commercial activity can be supported. In the
future, additional density of development is anticipated which will support such activity.
,
The City's Land Classification Map, prepared as a part of this Land Use Plan, gives a
graphic depiction of the types of growth patterns planned, desired and anticipated.
(12) Manufactured Homes
It is understood that a large portion of the City's housing stock (approximately 61 %)
consists of manufactured homes. The City finds the continued use of these structures to be
acceptable. These affordable structures are permitted according to the provisions described
within the Zoning Ordinance. (Only Class A & B manufactured homes are allowed. These
homes must be built after July 1, 1976, and must be installed according to local and State
regulations.) Careful thought was given to the preparation of the Zoning Ordinance (adopted
in December 1994) and the City will only allow development consistent with and according to
this and other applicable rules, regulations, and Ordinances.
(13) Provision of Services to Development
It is the policy of the City of Northwest to extend municipal services to those areas
t
which are within the City limits. It is not expected that sewer service will be available in the
near future, for cost consideration reasons. The availability of City water is currently being
studied and is expected to become available within the planning period.
It is City policy that commercial and industrial development will be required to connect
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to the municipal water system. The amount of water available may limit the City for
consideration by industrial and some commercial users. Large water users are discouraged
from locating in the City by municipal policy.
(14) Recreational Facilities
It is the desire of City officials to boost recreational opportunities. The City has
formed a Recreation Committee, acquired a public park (by lease) and will work to prepare a
recreation plan within the next five years. The City still has a need for active and passive
recreational sites. The City wishes to work with the Brunswick County Parks and Recreation
Department and the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation to pursue this goal. The
City is aware of the passage of recent legislation (HB 718 - Parks & Recreation/Natural
Heritage - ratified as Chapter 456 of the 1995 Session laws during the week of July 17, 1995)
which sets aside 75 % of the proceeds from the deeds excise stamp tax for the Parks and
Recreation Trust Fund and 25 % of the proceeds for the Natural Heritage Trust Fund. The
legislation also establishes the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Authority to receive and
administer funds received from the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund. It is estimated that the
legislation will provide a steady and a reliable annual revenue for the funding of State and
local parks. The amount available, statewide, is currently estimated to be in the range of $10
million. (Not all for local parks ... 65% to the State park system, 30% to provide matching
funds (dollar -for -dollar) to local government, and 5 % to the NC Beach Access Program.) The
City feels the passage of this legislation is extremely important for the funding of State and
' local parks.
It is the policy of the City to consider acceptance of a donation of property for
' recreational purposes. The City of Northwest Recreation Committee has been an active part
of recreation planning for the City and it is anticipated that the level of involvement by City
residents in this area will continue. All matters related to recreation will first be brought to
the City administrative staff. Recreation issues will then be brought to the attention of the
Council person responsible for recreation. This person will then discuss the matter with the
Recreation Committee and will have the Committee make a recommendation to the Council.
wishes to install a trail for jogging and walking) within the
The City of Northwest( � gg g g)
community through whatever grant funds may be available for such a facility.
(15) Annexation
The City of Northwest's policy on annexation is to pursue expansion primarily through
the provisions of the NC General Statutes relative to voluntary annexation. The City's
generalized policy on involuntary or satellite annexations is to not pursue these options. It is
not expected that Northwest will need to confront the question of annexation during the
planning period. If the question should arise, Northwest will carry out the study and
consideration of the facts in the manner prescribed by law.
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(16) Beautification
The Citizen Survey, which was administered as a means of gathering public opinion
during the Land Use Plan preparation process, thrust the issue of community appearance to the
attention of community leaders. There was strong sentiment expressed which stressed the
importance of cleanliness and appearance. As a result, the City of Northwest Planning Board
and City Council will, in the near future, form a Committee to deal with this issue. Public
opinion leaders feel the entrance to the City would be an ideal spot for a landscaped and
flowered gate or some other noticeable entranceway to the community. The Committee will
be asked to work on this and other issues. The City is seeking volunteers who may have an
interest in horticulture, or gardening, who may wish to work on the beautification project.
Interested persons, civic organizations, hunting clubs, or businesses who have an interest in
fresh air, vigorous exercise, beautiful scenery, and roadside pick-up of unsightly trash are
encouraged to contact City Hall.
The City recognizes littering of streets and highways as a crime. As the City will be
hiring police officers during 1995, enforcement activities in this area will increase. The casual
tossing of miscellaneous trash items from vehicles and dumping garbage and trash within the
City limits will be cause for arrest, citation, and fine.
(17) Education
It is expected that the tremendous growth of Brunswick County will continue to
pressure the school system into expansion plans. This will be a costly undertaking. The City
of Northwest recognizes the importance of basic and advanced educational opportunities as an
important means of enhancing life for future generations. The City will work closely with the
Brunswick County Board of Education and the County school system to coordinate plans and
to achieve growth in educational services concurrent with population growth.
Section 5: CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
As the starting point in the preparation of this document the City of Northwest adopted
a "Citizen Participation Plan" with a schedule of events which outlined the process of Land
Use Plan Update preparation. The "Citizen Participation Plan" was prepared according to the
requirements of Subchapter 7B of Chapter 15A of the North Carolina Administrative Code at
Section .0207. As a part of the public participation requirement for the production of a Land
Use Plan (LUP) under the Coastal Area Management Act, local governments are required to
describe a process by which the public will be encouraged to participate in the planning
process. It is the intent of the process described to give the public ample opportunity to
become a meaningful part of the planning process and all views gathered as a part of this
process are recognized to be informative and instructional for all citizens of the City of
Northwest, interested parties, and elected and appointed Boards.
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The principle local Board responsible for supervision of the planning process has been
the City of Northwest Planning Board. Public involvement in the process was generated
through public information meetings, public hearings, Planning Board Meetings, City Council
meetings and a survey of citizens. Ms. Joyce Bragg (City Clerk) and the Planning Board
Chairmen (Mr. Ards Bryant) served as the principle points of contact for the City. The
Mayor, the City Council, and the Planning Board have also been active in the preparation of
this Land Use Plan Update for the City of Northwest.
All meetings in preparation of this Land Use Plan Update were open to the public. All
meetings where matters concerning land use and public policy in the City of Northwest will be
discussed will continue to be open to the public, with advertised and adequately publicized
' public meetings and hearings held to discuss special land use issues and to keep citizens
informed. It is the intent of the City that all economic, social, ethnic, and cultural viewpoints
be considered on all matters of public policy. Coordination and discussion with regulatory
agencies and other area municipalities (and County) officials on policy matters will continue to
be a part of the City's land use policy development process.
Section 6: STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY,
& EVACUATION PLANS
The purpose of this section of the 1995 City of Northwest LUP is to assist the City in
managing development and requests for redevelopment in potentially hazardous areas. The
process by which this activity properly happens is to establish in this document storm hazard
mitigation policies. The purpose of this activity is to reduce the risks associated with severe
storms (such as hurricanes and tornados) through planning well before a storm event. Post -
disaster reconstruction and recovery policies will aid in the process of reconstruction following
a storm event and will help to insure that redevelopment activity takes place in a more orderly
manner.
The following pages will present the City's storm hazard mitigation and post disaster
recovery policies.
A. Storm Hazard Mitigation
Storm hazard mitigation actions are, by definition, those actions which will reduce the
impact of a storm event. Storm hazard mitigation policies are those local government policies
which will aid local government administrators and appointed or elected officials with the
adoption of implementation actions which will reduce the threat of storm hazard.
The types of storm events which may catastrophically effect the City of Northwest
include hurricanes and tornados. Both types of storms are extremely powerful and
unpredictable forces of nature. Hurricanes are large low pressure systems which form in the
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tropics and may move into our region. These storms bring strong winds. (In fact, the
defining factor of a hurricane is that it must be a tropical disturbance with winds in excess of
74 miles per hour (mph).) Hurricanes may spawn tornados (which are severe whirlwinds) and
which are extremely dangerous. There are four causes of fatality and property damage during
these two storm events. (1) high wind; (2) flood; (3) wave action; and, (4) erosion.
Two of these causes of property damage and death are pertinent to Northwest.
High Winds
Wind is the major determinant of a hurricane. Any tropical storm with sustained wind
in excess of 74 mph is classified as a hurricane. Hurricanes are judged by their power
according to a model known as the Saffir-Simpson scale. This measure of the power of a
hurricane classes hurricanes according to a sliding scale from 1 to 5 (with category 5 storms as
the most severe). Category 5 storms are rare. Northwest would be somewhat protected from
the full brute force of a hurricane as a result of its location. The friction or impact of the
storm hitting land from the water causes dissipation of the full force of the storm though there
is still tremendous energy left to overturn mobile homes, down power lines and other public
utilities, destroy crops, and fell trees. As Northwest is somewhat inland, the City is partially
protected. It should be recognized, however, that during 1989, when hurricane Hugo stuck
the South Carolina coast just north, of Charleston, damage from this storm was significant all
the way along the route of the storm to Charlotte, North Carolina. Hurricane damage in the
City of Northwest is possible.
Tornados are extremely forceful whirlwinds which effect a much narrower path than a
hurricane. These storms may have winds in excess of 300 mph and are the most powerful
wind storms. Rain may also be associated with these storm events. During a tornado strike,
structures built by man do not fare well and are most often completely destroyed. Tornados
are more common visitors to Brunswick County than hurricanes. Man's successful efforts to
mitigate the effect of tornados has been negligible due to the raw power of these storms.
As a result of these occasional storm events, wind stress is an important consideration
in storm hazard mitigation planning.
Flo in
With the tremendous rainfall known to occur accompanying hurricanes, and with the
storm surge which may cause rivers, streams, tributaries, and branches draining an area to
clog and to back up, both riverine and coastal flooding is a hazard. Flooding during a storm
event will frequently cause extensive damage in inland areas such as Northwest. The reason
for this possibility is the City has low areas which may be identified as wetlands, which are
always subject to the threat of flood, as well as streams which are also subject to flood. The
City is not a member of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's flood hazard
protection program. Hazards in the low lying areas are known to exist, therefore, the
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' consideration of possible flood damage is an important part of Northwest's storm hazard
mitigation policy planning.
B. Northwest's Storm Hazard Mitigation Policy
The North Carolina Uniform Building Code is used by Brunswick County to manage
development and to minimize potential wind damage. (The County handles building
inspections activity for the City of Northwest.) It is the policy of the City to support the State
Building Code on wind resistant construction with design standards of 110 mph wind loads.
The City shall require the enforcement of the NC Building Code and especially those
provisions which require construction to meet wind resistive factors.
' It is the intention of the Cityof Northwest to become a participant in the National
P P
Flood Insurance program. The City will discourage high intensity uses and large structures
within the 100-year floodplain. The City shall consider the purchase of parcels located in
hazardous areas or rendered unbuildable by storms or other events for recreation purposes.
I Subdividers, through negotiation and a mutual agreement, may be required to set aside a
portion of any proposed subdivision found to be in a hazardous area as a condition for project
approval due to public safety considerations.
The City of Northwest encourages the placement of utilities underground for all new
development and redevelopment projects.
' C. Post -Disaster Recovery Plan
City officials recognize that in the event of a major storm making landfall in the
vicinity of Northwest there will very likely be damage to homes, businesses, public utilities,
roads or other features of the City which will require coordinated clean-up and prior thought
given to the process of returning to pre -storm status. As a means of assisting with this return
to non -storm status, the City of Northwest hereby appoints a Disaster Recovery Team (DRT).
The DRT consists of the following members:
1. Mayor
2. City Council
3. City Clerk
4. Building Inspector (County)
The Mayor will serve as the DRT leader and the base of operations will be the
Emergency Operations Center designated by the City Council. The DRT will be responsible
for the following:
1. Establishing a restoration schedule.
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2. Setting priorities for restoration.
3. Determining requirements for outside assistance and requesting such
assistance when beyond local capabilities.
4. Keeping appropriate County, State, and federal officials informed.
5. Keeping the public informed.
6. Assembling and maintaining records of actions taken and expenditures and
obligations incurred.
7. Recommending to the Mayor to proclaim a state of emergency, if warranted.
8. Commencing and coordinating clean-up, debris removal, and utility
restoration which would include coordination of restoration activities
undertaken by private utility companies (if any).
9. Coordinating repair and restoration of essential public facilities and services
in accordance with determined priorities.
10. Assisting private businesses and individual property owners in obtaining
information on the various types of assistance that might be available to
them from local, State, and federal agencies.
11. Coordinating public safety.
As a further aid in the return to normal operations following a storm event, and in
circumstances where damage may be quite bad (or catastrophic) the City will prepare a list of
local residents who should be allowed free access to the City in the aftermath of a storm event.
These people would be allowed to return in the event of a blockading of the City. The persons
on' this list will be referred to as the Damage Control Team and will include all members of
the DRT, City employees, electricians, carpenters, plumbers, volunteer fire and rescue
personnel and others who may be of assistance in a return to pre -storm status.
Following the storm event, the DRT will have City personnel, volunteers, the Damage
Control Team, and others as necessary, to begin clean-up operations and debris removal.
State and/or federal assistance will be requested, and if available will be used for the purpose
of cleaning streets, roads, bridges, culverts, etc., and to assist the elderly and infirm who may
be in immediate need of assistance. The DRT will be responsible for the implementation of an
orderly reconstruction process following a major storm event. The reconstruction process will
occur in accordance with the City's building and land use regulations and policies.
Members of the DRT are encouraged to attend disaster training workshops.
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Damage Assessment:
Damage assessment must be made to determine as quickly as possible a realistic
estimate of the amount of damage caused by a hurricane or major storm. Information such as
the number of structures damaged, the extent of the damage, and the total estimated value of
property destroyed will need to be developed.
As soon as possible following a storm event the DRT will set up a Damage Assessment
Team (DAT). This team must consist of individuals who are capable of giving reliable
estimates of the original value of structures, estimates of the value amount of damages
sustained, and an accounting of repairs necessary to restore the structure to its original use.
Members of the DAT will consist of the following persons:
♦ Tax Collector
♦ Building Inspector (County)
♦ A local realtor or contractor
♦ Brunswick County Tax Department personnel
The following general criteria shall be used:
• Destroyed --- — repairs would cost more than 80% of value.
• Major damage — — repairs would cost more than 30% of value.
• Minor damage — - repairs would cost less than 30% of the value but the
structure is currently uninhabitable.
• Habitable — — some minor damage with repairs less than 15 % of value.
Each damage assessment will be documented according to County Tax Department
records. Also City tax maps and records will be used for identification purposes. The total
estimated dollar value of damages will be summarized and reported to the DRT at the
completion of the survey, or in the case of extensive damage, at regular intervals during the
assessment.
Reconstruction Standards:
Structures which are rendered destroyed or which have sustained major damage, as
determined by the DAT, and which did not conform to the City's building code, Zoning
Ordinance, or other storm mitigation policy standards must be redeveloped according to those
policies. In some instances this will mean the relocation of buildings or structures, in other
instances this will mean no reconstruction will be allowed. Building permits to restore
structures which have received major damage or which have been destroyed and which were
in conformance with municipal ordinances and storm mitigation policy standards will be issued
automatically. All structures suffering major damage will be repaired according to the NC
Building Code and according to all other pertinent, State, local, or federal rules and
41

regulations. All structures suffering minor damage, regardless of location, will be allowed to
rebuild to the original condition prior to the storm event.
Development Moratoria:
Because of the density of development within the City of Northwest, which is much
more densely developed than the surrounding areas of the County, and because of the
possibility of extensive damage caused by a major storm, it may be necessary for the City to
prohibit all redevelopment activities for a period of time following a storm event. This
development moratoria would allow City officials the opportunity to carefully assess all
damage in light of existing policies, building regulations and ordinances and to determine the
steps necessary for redevelopment. This will be particularly crucial should major public
facilities be destroyed. The intent of this moratorium would be to avoid similar circumstances
in the event of future storms. If a moratorium is declared, it will be declared by the City
Council. The time frame for this moratorium will be consistent with the extent of damage.
The actual length of any moratorium declared will be set by the City Council.
Reconstruction Schedule:
The following brief schedule of activities and time frame are approved with an
understanding that, realistically, there are many factors which must be considered during a
storm event and some of these items may render this schedule unworkable or not feasible. It
is the policy of the City of Northwest to take all actions to complete the reconstruction process
as quickly and conveniently for all citizens as possible.
Activity
;w�wComplete and report damage assessments.
�>�>Begin repairs to critical utilities and facilities.
�>�>Permitting of reconstruction activity for all
damaged structures.
Replacement of Public Utilities:
Time Frame
::*2 weeks after storm
:>As soon as possible
Following completion
of assessments of the
individual buildings
requiring repair
If, at some future time, a public water supply system or future public or community
sewerage system is damaged or destroyed and it may be determined that the facility may be
moved to a less hazardous location, then the system may be relocated during the reconstruction
period. The Mayor, the City Council, and the City engineer will be responsible for oversight
on the repair or reconstruction of public utilities.
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' D. Evacuation Plans
' The City has confidence in the disaster preparedness plan of the Brunswick County
Emergency Management Department and hereby supports, accepts, and adopts the provisions
of this plan relative to the evacuation of the City of Northwest. City officials believe
Northwest should serve as a place those evacuating beach communities may wish to evacuate
to rather than a Brunswick County place people may wish to evacuate from.
Section 7: LAND CLASSIFICATION
The land classification system provides a framework which will guide the City of
' Northwest in identifying the future use of all lands within the City's planning jurisdiction.
Some of the lands in City are more suitable than others for development activity. The
description of the classes herein outlined will allow Northwest officials to illustrate graphically
their policy statements on where and at what density they wish future growth will occur, and
will illustrate where the City wants to conserve natural resources by guiding growth.
The Coastal Resources Commission has designated (through the use of the Planning
Guidelines) a land classification system which has seven classes. These seven classification
categories (developed, urban transition, limited transition, community, rural, rural with
services, and conservation) have been subdivided by the City of Northwest into more specific
subclasses pertinent to the situation within the City.
' The following land classification categories are suggested by the Coastal Resources
Commission as a guide to each local government in developing their own categories:
' 1. Developed:
' A. Purpose. The purpose of the developed class is to provide for continued
intensive development and redevelopment of existing cities, towns and their
urban environs.
B. Description and characteristics. Areas meeting the intent of the developed
classification are currently urban in character where minimal undeveloped land
remains and have in place, or are scheduled for the timely provision of, the
usual municipal or public services. Urban in character includes mixed land uses
such as residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and other uses at high
to moderate densities. Services include water, sewer, recreational facilities,
' streets and roads, police and fire protection. In some instances an area may not
have all the traditional urban services in place, but if it otherwise has a
developed character and is scheduled for the timely provision of these services,
it still meets the intent of the developed classification.
2. Urban Transition:
' A. Purpose. The purpose of the urban transition class is to provide for future
intensive urban development on lands that are suitable and that will be provided
1 43
11

L�
with the necessary urban services to support intense urban development
B. Description and Characteristics. Areas meeting the intent of the urban transition
classification are presently being developed for urban purposes or will be
developed in the next five to ten years to accommodate anticipated population
and urban growth. These areas are in, or will be in an urban "transition" state
of development going from lower intensity uses to higher intensity uses and as
such will eventually require urban services. Examples of areas meeting the
intent of this class are lands included within municipal extraterritorial planning
boundaries and areas being considered for annexation.
i. Areas classified urban transition will provide lands for intensive urban
growth when lands in the developed class are not available. Urban
transition lands must be able to support urban development by being
generally free of physical limitations and be served or readily served by
urban services. Urban development includes mixed land uses such as
residential, commercial, institutional, industrial and other uses at or
approaching high to moderate densities. Urban services include water,
sewer, streets and roads, police and fire protection that will be made
available at the time development occurs or soon thereafter. Permanent
population densities in this class will be high and the seasonal
population may swell significantly.
Limited Transition:
A. Purpose. The purpose of the Limited Transition Class is to provide for
development in areas that will have some services, but are suitable for lower
densities than those associated with the Urban Transition Class, and/or are
geographically remote from existing towns and municipalities.
B. Description and Characteristics. Areas meeting the intent of this class will
experience increased development during the planning period. They will be in
a state of development necessitating some municipal type services. These areas
are of modest densities and often suitable for the provision of closed water
systems rather than individual wells.
Areas classified Limited Transition will provide controlled development
with services, but may not be on lands that are suitable for traditional
high intensity urban development normally associated with sewers or
other services. These may be lands with physical limitations or areas
near valuable estuarine waters or other fragile natural systems. Sewers
and other services may be provided because such services are already
in the area or readily available nearby, because the lands are unsuitable
for septic tanks or the cumulative impact of septic tanks may negatively
impact significant public resources;
ii. The Limited Transition class is intended for predominately residential
development with densities of three units per acre or less, or the
majority of lots 15,000 square feet or greater. In many areas, lower
densities would be necessary and should be discussed. Clustering or
development associated with Planned Unit Developments may be
appropriate in the Limited Transition Class;
44
1
1

1
i�
1
LI
4.
5.
6.
iii. Areas which meet the definition of the Conservation class should not be
classified Limited Transition.
Community:
A. Purpose. The purpose of the community class is to provide for clustered, mixed
land uses at low densities to help meet the housing, shopping, employment and
other needs in rural areas.
B. Description and Characteristics. Areas meeting the intent of the community
class are presently developed at low densities which are suitable for private
septic tank use. These areas are clustered residential and/or commercial land
uses which provide both low intensity shopping and housing opportunities and
provide a local social sense of a "community". Very limited municipal type
services such as fire protection and community water may be available, but
municipal type sewer systems are not to be provided as a catalyst for future
development. In some unusual cases sewer systems may be possible, but only
to correct an existing or projected public health hazard. Areas developed in a
low density fashion in small, dispersed clusters in a larger rural landscape with
very limited or no water and sewer services meet the intent of this class.
Rural:
A. Purpose. The rural class is to provide for agriculture, forestry, mineral
extraction and other allied uses traditionally associated with an agrarian region.
Other land uses, due to their noxious or hazardous nature and negative impacts
on adjacent uses may also be appropriate here if sited in a manner that
minimizes their negative effect on surrounding land uses or natural resources.
Examples include energy generating plants; refining plants, airports, sewage
treatment facilities; fuel storage tanks and other industrial type uses. Very low
density dispersed residential uses on large lots with on site water and sewer are
consistent with the intent of the rural class. Development in this class should be
as compatible with resource production as possible.
B. Description and Characteristics. Areas meeting the intent of this classification
are appropriate for or presently used for agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction
and other uses, that due to their hazardous or noxious nature, should be located
in a relatively isolated and undeveloped area. Very low density dispersed, single
family residential uses are also appropriate within rural areas where lot sizes are
large and where densities do not require the provision of urban type services.
Private septic tanks and wells are the primary on site services available to
support residential development, but fire, rescue squad and sheriff protection
may also be available. Population densities will be very low.
Rural with Services.
A. Purpose. 'The rural services class is to provide for very low density land uses
including residential use where limited water services are provided in order to
avert an existing or projected health problem. Development within this class
should be very low intensity in order to maintain a rural character. Rural water
systems, such as those funded by Farmers Home Administration, are or may be
available in these areas due to the need to avert poor water quality problems.
45

1
These systems, however, should be designed to serve a limited number of
'
customers and should not serve as a catalyst for future higher intensity
development.
B. Description and Characteristics. Areas meeting the intent of this class are
appropriate for very low intensity residential uses, where lot sizes are large, and
where the provision of services will not disrupt the primary rural character of
'
the landscape. Private wells and septic tank services may exist, but most
development is supported by a closed water system. Other services such as
sheriff protection and rural or volunteer fire protection and emergency rescue
etc. may also be available.
7. Conservation:
A. Purpose. 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.
B. Description and Characteristics. Areas meeting the intent of this classification
include:
i. AEC's, including but not limited to public trust waters, estuarine
waters, coastal wetlands etc. as identified in 15A NCAC 7H; '
ii. other similar lands, environmentally significant because of their natural
role in the integrity of the coastal region and include but are not limited '
to bottom land hardwoods, pocosins, swamp forests, areas that are or
ave a high probability of providing wildlife habitat, forest lands that are
essentially undeveloped and lands which otherwise contain significant '
productive, natural, scenic, cultural or recreational resources.
The City of Northwest chooses to use the following three (3) land classification '
categories: Transition, Limited Transition, and Conservation.
TRANSITION '
The purpose of the Transition class is to provide for development in those areas of the
City which are projected as being within a state of "Transition" during the planning period. In
this context the term Transition means growth and or change of some type due to development
or redevelopment activity. It is believed these areas (which are shown graphically on the Land
Classification Map) are the most likely to change to ever more densely populated commercial
or/and residential development. Those areas classified Transition include all those areas
believed to be suitable for commercial type development. Those areas classified Transition are
currently the most densely populated areas of the City. These are the areas where water '
service is expected within the planning period. These are also to areas to which growth will
be directed.
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' Areas which meet the intent of the Conservation classification are not to be considered
as Transition lands. Growth activity in these areas will be governed by the City's policies (as
' discussed in this Land Use Plan), the Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, etc., and
the consistency provisions regarding land development activity and Land Use Plans addressed
in State law (G.S. 113A-111).
' LIlVMD TRANSITION
The City of Northwest has a large area within the Limited Transition classification
category. It is the general purpose of this classification to provide for uses consistent with an
agrarian region (agriculture, forestry, etc.) as well as to accommodate continuing residential,
possible commercial, manufacturing, or industrial type growth. Population densities in these
areas are expected to remain low during the planning period. Areas which meet the intent of
the Conservation class are not to be considered as Limited Transition lands.
CONSERVATION
The Conservation classification within the City of Northwest applies to all areas
' classified as wetlands by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. These areas are too small and
too widely dispersed within the City's planning jurisdiction to be accurately depicted on the
Land Classification Map. In each case, a site survey will be required to determine if
' freshwater wetland areas are being disturbed. These areas must be identified by a qualified
wetlands consultant, approved by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, or by a representative
of the Corps. Development activity within wetlands is discouraged by City policy.
' Enforcement of this policy is by the City's Subdivision Regulations and through working with
the Planning Board in the plat approval process. Development within these areas is permitted
if federal, state, and local regulations permit such activity. No development activity is
allowed in those areas classified Conservation which is inconsistent with the policy statements
of this document.
' Section 8: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATION
' The North Carolina Coastal Resources Commission requires a statement within each
Land Use Plan which discusses how policies within the Land Use Plan relate to the land
classification categories. For all readers and agency personnel who may read and
subsequently interpret this document, please be advised that the City of Northwest has given
long and careful thought to those policies contained herein. The LUP development process
was long. Many opportunities for policy choice were given. Those policies which have
emerged as a part of this document are the best effort of City officials to create policy
statements which are consistent with the City's position on long-term growth and development
and which will also be consistent with the Coastal Resources Commission's planning
requirements. The Land Classification Map is the graphic depiction of how these policies are
to be enforced on the land areas in and around the City of Northwest.
' It is the desire of City officials to have ordinances created and enforced which will be
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consistent with City policy, as contained herein, and which will also be consistent with the '
Land Classification Map.
Section 9: INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND EMPLEMENTATION
The City of Northwest will continue to work with Brunswick County on matters of
mutual concern. It is recognized within the City that the County has resources and staff
personnel which are of great assistance to the municipality. The City wishes to encourage and
to promote further cooperation. Some of the areas in which the City would like to work more
closely with the County include:
O Industrial development and the recruiting of industrial and commercial
businesses to the Northwest area.
® Planning and the regulation of development (including inspections).
® Provision of fire and rescue services.
© Emergency management planning and implementation.
® Parks and Recreation services.
® Sheriff's Department.
6 Register of Deeds.
® Transportation planning activities.
® Brunswick County schools and library services.
m Water and sewer services extension.
The City also recognizes the municipal boundary is not the full extent of the area of
concern effecting the City of Northwest. Other municipalities have much to share in terms of
experience and expertise. Brunswick County municipal managers, administrators, and clerks
have a wealth of experience. Rather than each individual local government re -inventing the
solution to a problem the City of Northwest suggests cooperation and a pooling of resources to
cooperate on ways that cost savings and administrative efficiency may be achieved. It is the
intention of the City to make the best use of all types of resources available and to strive to
make the City of Northwest a better place to live through the sharing of experience.
It is recognized that those land areas which are the maximum extent of the City of
Northwest's municipal limit border on lands which are covered by a different ordinance for
zoning, land subdivision, minimum housing, nuisance, etc. The City wishes to work with the
48
1
I

1
' County on the adoption of ordinances by both local governments which will have some
similarity of purpose. The long-range goal for each of these places is a better living
environment for the citizens of Brunswick County. County residents share a common destiny,
and just as a common future for those who stay in the County is indisputable, any
inconsistencies in policy or design of land management systems and ordinances will always be
' able to be discussed at the City of Northwest. Municipal officials recognize this same level of
cooperation at the County and look forward to continuing a mutually beneficial situation.
11
49

ATTACHMENT A
City of Northwest
Elected officials
(state & Federal)
U. S. Senate
The Honorable Jesse Helms
SD-403 Dirksen Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
[phone]
The Honorable Lauch Faircloth
317 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
[phone]
U. S. House of Representatives
The Honorable Charlie Rose
Rayburn House Office Building, Room 2230
Washington, DC 20516
[phone]
N. C. State Senate
"
= The Honorable R. C. Soles,•Jr.
Legislative Office Building, Room 2022
Raleigh, NC 27601
[phone]
N. C. State House of Representatives
The Honorable Thomas E. Wright
Legislative Office Building, Room 528
Raleigh, NC 27601
r
[phone]
I

ATTACHMENT B
1 CITY OF -NORTHWEST
1 SURVEY RESPONSE
TALLY SHEET
1) How long have you lived in the City of Northwest?
4 Two ears or less
f
I Two to five years
3 Five to ten years
9 More than ten years
_31_ Native of the Northwest area
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
—Since Northwest has only been a "City" for a year, that's how long we have been in the "City"
2) Which of the following best describes your relationship to the City of Northwest?
39 Permanent resident of the City
9 Non-resident property owner/seasonal visitor
5 Owner/operator of a business in the City of Northwest
Other
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
—Bom and raised there and my parents still live there.
—Property owner — sold on owner financing.
3) What, in your opinion, is the most important problem facing the City of Northwest that the
City can do something about?
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
—Young people need some attention now.
The abuse of drugs and related crime.
The fact that some are trying to make a City in the middle of a farm community. (Dissolve it.)
—Littering on highway, keep shoulders of the road mowed more often.
--Crime-drugs. Help for young people.
Water (safe drinking water).
—Drugs.
Reduce the tax rate to an acceptable and reasonable one.
Housing, roads, lights, police.
Dope.
—Drugs, put speed signs up from City limits to City limits.
—Fixing of homes for old and low income people. Drug clean-up.
--Collect trash and repair or remove destroyed houses.
Fire and rescue.
—Improved housing and water line.
Education regarding drugs/pride/water/traffic — speed limits in Town.
Education of people about what being a City is all about — taxes/budgets/etc.
-Roads.
--Go to Jesus. You can't do nothing without God. (Drugs)
—Road situation, cleaning alongside of roads, cutting grass and cleaning graveyards.
—Roads, recreation, police protection.
—No jobs. Crime. Drugs.
—Growth, be innovative.
—Excessive government intervention into the rights and privileges of the taxpayer and land owner.
—No jobs. Crime. Drugs.

—Roads need repairing.
—Keeping the streets free of drugs.
-No opinion.
—Maintaining the noise level for the New World Club, and the behavior of its occupants.
—Crime and drug pushing.
—Drugs, poor leadership.
—Better roads and homes that need repair.
—I think taxes are too high.
4) If you are a permanent resident, what was the major reason you chose the City of
Northwest as your home?
20 To enjoy the quiet family atmosphere
_l 1 Proximity of other amenities or relatives
6 Low taxes
1 Climate
1 Employment/Business opportunity
6 All of the above
IT Other
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
The home of my parents.
—We chose to leave the City and move to the country.
Town formed.
—Birth place.
—Born here. This is home for me.
—Because we were zoned into the City.
—Born and raised.
—Born and raised here.
—Chose to be a part of the community I live in.
—Born and raised in Northwest.
—Family lived here for history of years (sic).
—I do not live there at this time.
—Non-resident.
—It's where I've lived most of my life.
—Husband was born here.
—Home.
5) If you are a non-resident property owner, what was the major reason why you acquired
your property?
3 For rental purposes/investment property
7 Proximity of other amenities or relatives
3 Low taxes
7 For future use as a retirement home
47 All of the above
_4__ Other
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
—I am a resident property owner.
—Inherited.
—Inherited it.
—It's my birthplace.

6) In future years, how would you like to see the City of Northwest develop?
6 A retirement community
8 A bedroom community for area residents
22_ All of the above
Other (please specify)
_15_
ITTE WRN RESPONSES:
—Help the old people get what they deserve.
Not develop City. Return to County government.
—Shopping area closer by.
—Upscale residential and commercial service.
—A community free of drugs and (sellers) dealers.
—Family type crime free community.
Job developments; post office; supermarket.
—A clean healthy environment.
—Help low income people.
—Small farming.
—A quiet peaceful community.
--Checked but no written comment.
—No opinion.
—A nice clean respectful development.
—Remain as is.
7 Do you feel the City of Northwest is growing ..........
Too fast
_2
Too slow
_15_
Just about right
_23_
Northwest has had enough growth
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
No opinion_.
8) What type of development should be encouraged or discouraged?
TYPES OF DEVELOPMENT ENCOURAGED
DISCOURAGE—D
Single Family_ Residential 39
4
16
Multi -Family Residential 20
18
Mobile Homes 19
Shopping Facilities 35
15
Industry 25
36
5
Recreational Use
WRITTEN RESPONSES.
No parks.
—Up-keep restrictions on homes would be okay.
No opinion.
9) At the present time, the City does not have a water system. Should the City Council work
towards establishing a community wide water system?
33 Yes
No
_10_
Not sure
_5_
No opinion
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
—Only if it can be done without City taxes which is unlikely.
—I think the City should work with the County in obtaining the water services!
I

1
10) . What do you think are the most important issues now facing the City of Northwest?
Major issue
Minor Issue
Not an Issue
21
6
12
Preserve and enhance City character
18
15
6
Improve street lighting
31
4
9
Upgrade all housing to M B C standards.
9
9
17
Limit commercial re -zoning
7
14
15
Hire City Manager/Administrator
8
11
19
Provide sidewalks and curbs
15 12 7 Completion of the new City Hall
9 6 19 Provide stoplight (please specify where)
—Caution light on Vernon Road.
—At railroad crossing.
12 11 12 Improve enforcement of ordinances
32 8 5 Pave dirt roads
23 10 5 Improve street maintenance
17 14 6 Do more beautification work in the City
16 9 12 Improve stormwater management
32 8 4 Protect groundwater
WRITTEN RESPONSES: '
—The road needs to be straightened on Vernon Road. Need to prevent the high accident rate.
—Most important issue —the fact that a group of people are trying to get something for nothing at the
expense of the taxpayers. We are retired living on a fixed income, living in the County because
of its economy. Now we have City taxes added to all the others — for what?
Too much crime and fatalities.
—Would like to see a Recreation Director for youth (a professional person).
—No opinion.
—1 do not want government housing in Northwest. We are not equipped to handle the crime it would
bring- in.
—When Northwest was incorporated it was ostensibly to maintain the quality of life we enjoyed at the
time. Let's not lose sight of this.
—Some issues were not applicable (i.e., ordinances, land use). Need to educate re: drugs, encourage
folks to take a stand and community pride is important.
11) Is the police/sheriff protection in Northwest adequate?
2 Yes
_37_ No
_13_ Not sure/No opinion
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
—Don't have a sheriff in Northwest yet.
12) If no, how should the City provide additional police protection?
_26_ Establish a City of Northwest Police Department
_15_ Contract with the Brunswick County Sheriff's Department
_5_ Other
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
—Hire Joe McQueen
—Perhaps combination of both.
—Residents are more qualified to answer this question.
—Work out a program with Sandycreek

k
I
r
n
F,
13) Do you think the existing land use ordinances are sufficiently protecting your property
interests?
_18_ Yes
_8_ No (If no, why not?)
—What is the existing land use ordinance?
—Because they haven't done anything yet
—By allowing a resident to have a hog pasture in road frontage.
—Will wait and see until the end of 1995.
—Not sure what they are.
_16_ No opinion
14) Are you satisfied with the following public services available in the City of Northwest?
YF_S NO SERVICE IF NO. WHY NOT?
_26_ _8_ City Administration
—Not together on all issues.
—Property on City tax billings were incorrect for 1994.
—Don't know what they are.
_19 9 Planning
—Plans are not implemented.
—Don't know what they are planning.
_20_ _7_ Building Inspection
—I have seen no building inspections.
—I have seen no building inspections.
_15_ _14_ Brunswick County Sheriff Protection
—Need more patrolling.
—Not patrolled enough.
—Getting better under republican administration.
—N/A
_30_ _3_ Volunteer Fire Protection
—Needs eckaipment.
—Don't have one.
_20_ _9_ Volunteer Rescue Services
—Not in service.
—Don't have any.
_16 _12 Trash Collection
—Not in—service.
—County provides.
There is no trash collection.
Doesn't exist, keeps moving pick-up sites.
—Do not need.
There is no trash collection.
_12_ _19_ Street Lighting
—More sufficient lighting.
We need more lights.
—Need more.
—We need more lights between those already here.
_12_ _16 Street Maintenance
—Not in service.
—Ditches need to be cleaned.
—Live on dirt road.
—Our streets need much work.

YES NO SERVICE
8 20_ Street Paving
—More roads need to be paved.
—Have not seen any.
—Live on dirt road.
—We have unpaved roads that need paving.
_12_ _12_ Traffic Control
—There are too many people coming in to buy drugs.
—Not in service.
—What traffic control?
14_ Storm Drainage
_12_
—Mosquitoes bad.
The water is not draining and needs to be cleaned.
—Need improvement.
—Drainage in low lands still a problem.
City Cleanliness
_10_ _17_
—Need improvement.
—Still trashy.
—People litter. No pride.
The amount of litter is unbelievable.
—Roads and properties need regular cleaning.
_8_ 24Mosquito Control
_
—The outbrea_k is very severe.
Haven't seen any service.
—N/A
—No mosquito control.
There has been no mosquito control.
_12_ _9_ Evacuation Planning
—Not implemented.
—I know of no such plans.
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
What public services?
—No opinion.
—Some of these issues will be issues for the Town to deal with as major
priorities are
addressed.
—Lots of these services are not in operation as of yet.
Those that are in
operation, there is no
togetherness in making proper decisions that will help our community.
15) I would be willing to pay more taxes for the following:
YES
NO
NO OPINION
Recreational Facilities
12
21
5
Fire Department
28
10
3
Rescue Squad
30
9_
3_
Police Department
_23
13
4_
Water System
_187
_19_
5
Sewer System
17
17
6
Street Improvements
_23_
_13_
Drainage Improvements
_18
_15_
5_
t
Public Garbage Collection
_13_
_13_
5_
Other(s) (please specify)
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
i
—Would rather update/increase County coverage if it
meant higher County taxes.

-I don't want to pay more taxes. I have enough to pay.
' -I think you started off charging too much taxes to start with. Leland only charges $-05 per $100.00.
The people don't have/make enough to pay that much.
-Fire and rescue main priority.
16) What is your age group?
0 Under 30
17 30 - 49
23_ 50 - 64
_l l_ Over 65
17) What is the size of your household?
_13 1 person
17_ 2 persons
20_ 3 persons or more
18) Which best describes your type of residence,
' _37_ Conventional home (single family site built)
2 Pre-fab Home
_5Mobile Home
_47-
_ Other
WRITTEN RESPONSES:
-Brick home.
-Brick home.
-Brick home.
-I do not live in a house at this time.
-Do not live here at this time.
19) Do you own or rent the house in which you live?
46 Own Home
0_ Rent
_3_ Own Undeveloped Lot(s)
20) How many months a year do you live in the City of Northwest?
4U- 'Year-round resident
' 1 6 - 11 months
07
3 - 5 months
3_ Less than three months
21) What is the work status of the head of household?
_22Retired
22_ Working 40 hours per week
2Working part-time
_4_ _ Not working
22) My family income is approximately:
6_ Under $10,000
20 $10,000 - $29,999
_8_ $30,000 - $49,999
Over $50,000
MISCELLANEOUS COMMENTS:
We chose our home because we didn't want he trappings of a City. We wanted the peace and quiet of the country
without higher taxes and the other problems of the City. So we are satisfied with our home as it is.
r —I have retained a copy of this survey after completion for my records.
—"Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord." May the Lord be with you.
—Left by will but don't intend to come back. Use for farm land without payment.
—Dear Sir: I have not had any notification that my property was to be annexed. The only thing 1 got was a Bill. If it had
been named Maco, 1 would be much more receptive to it, and been happy with it.

r°
11
ATTACHMENT C
9 CT 0 9 t,gr3:
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
yes B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
ty Ray McCain, Secretary
Division of Archives and History
William S. Price, Jr., Director
' September 27, 1995
Haskell S. Rhett III
Cape Fear Council of Governments
1480 Harbour Drive
Wilmington, NC 28401
' Re: Northwest Land Use Plan, Brunswick County
ER 96-7422
Dear Mr. Rhett:
Thank you for your letter of August 31, 1995, concerning the above project.
According to our files, no archaeological sites have been recorded within
Northwest's planning area. However, no surveys have been conducted within the
area. The possibility exists that archaeological sites ranging from the prehistoric to
the historic period may be located in the town. The town is situated on what was
once the 2.162-acre estate of Samuel Rowell (1790-1857). According to historian
Don Lennon, Rowell "married Charlotte Skipper (1794-1869) in 1810 and they
t made their home at the 'Old Homestead' at Northwest in Brunswick County.
Samuel was involved in a variety of enterprises.... His 'Red House' ordinary and
store apparently served as a stage coach stop and a popular resting place for
travelem-during the 1830s and 1840s."
Enclosed for your information is an 1870 plat and description of the Rowell
property. We recommend that the Northwest Land Use Plan reference the potential
for archaeological sites, particularly ones associated with the Rowell plantation and
the need for careful review of all development plans situated within previously
undisturbed areas.
We have conducted a search of our files and are aware of no structures of
historical or architectural importance located within the planning area. However,
since a comprehensive historical architectural inventory of Brunswick County has
never been conducted, there may be structures of which we are unaware located
within the planning area.
rThank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions
concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill -Earley, environmental
review coordinator, at 919/733-4763.
' Sincerely,
//DaVdbrook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
DB:slw
' Enclosure 109 East Jones Street - Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807
m

I
ATTACHMENT D
CAPE FEAR
COUNCIL OF GOVEIRVATEM
August 31, 1995
Mr. David Brook
Historic Preservation Office
Division of Archives and History
109 East Jones Street
Raleigh, NC 27601.-2807
Dear Mr. Brook:
I am presently involved :with the responsibility of preparing a Coastal-Ar - ea
Management Act Land Use Plan for.:the:City of Northwest, in.BCOBrunswick County.
.. sw;
As the protection and preservation o . f historic and.archa"eologi c.resour :resources are given
a high priority by this local government and as the North.Carolina Coastal
Resources Commission also gives priority to the preservation of these resources
and requires a policy statement within the Land Use Plan on the preservation of
these resources, I hereby requqZ on behalf of the City of Northwest, a -statement
from your office giving the name and location of any historic or archaeologically
significant sites within the City.
The information you will provide will be used in the formulation of the Land Use
Plan policy and will be an important consideration in the adoption and
administration of regulations governing land use in the City.;:t. 1: have -enclosed a'..
map as a means of orienting yourself to the City.
Please call: if you have any questions.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,. 01Z . . ......
Haskell S. Rhett,:.!.Il
Management Services Director...'
Enclosure
cc: Joyce Bragg
Rose Ann Mack
brook895.nwl .......
A � r— # A rtkWAr)A1Frnr)10V"f

ATTACHMENT E
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
' CITY OF NORTHWEST 1995 LAND USE PLAN
This Citizen Participation Plan has been prepared according to the requirements of Subchapter 7B of
Chapter 15A of the North Carolina Administrative Code at Section .0207. Asa partof the public
participation requirement for the production of a Land Use Plan (LUP) under the Coastal Area
Management Act, local governments are required to describe a process by which the public will be
encouraged to participate in the planning process. It is the intent of the process described herein
that the public will have ample opportunity to become a meaningful part of the planning process
and that views gathered as apart of this process will be informative and instructional for citizens of
the City of Northwest, interested parties and elected and appointed Boards.
The principle local Board responsible for supervision of the planning process will be the City of
Northwest Planning Board. Membership is as follows:
Mr. Artis R. Bryant 4032 Northwest Road, NE, Leland, NC 28451, Mr. Charles R. Carroll, 5018
Medlin Road, NE, Riegelwood, NC 28456, Ms. Clarkie L. Munn, 4984 Blue Banks Loop Road, NE,
' Leland, NC 28451 Mr. Jay Robinson, RESIGNED EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1994 (Appointment of
replacement pending), Ms. Marge Damiani, 4514 Mount Misery Road, NE, Leland, NC 28451
' Mr. Haskell Rhett of the Cape Fear Council of Governments will serve as Planner -in -Charge. Ms.
Joyce Bragg, Interim Town Clerk, and Mr. Artis Bryant, Planning Board Chairman, will serve as the
principle points of contact for the City. The Mayor, the City Council, and the Planning Board will
also be alive in the preparation of this initial Land Use Plan for the City of Northwest.
Included as a part of this plan is a schedule of events which describes the planning process.
Additional meetings will take place, in addition to those described, as necessary. We expect and
anticipate assistance from the NC Division of Coastal Management in the production of this LUP.
The public will receive notice of opportunities for input in the planning process. Regular meetings
of the Planning Board and City Council will be used, whenever possible,. as a means of.getting the
citizens of the City involved. Legal advertisemenf of public meetings will be used. Newspaper and
other media coverage will besought Fliers will be posted intat City Hall and around the City to.
inform the public of their opportunities for involvement. Additionally, a Citizen Survey
Questionnaire will be distributed as a part of the process.
The planning process will begin with an introduction and a focus on existing land use. From there
the process will proceed into a discussion of present issues. Next, future issues of concern for the
City will become a focus. The policy statements will be the most significant and important part of
the LUP and the importance of these statements on policy will be emphasized to citizens and
community leaders alike. Coordination and discussion with area municipalities and County officials
on 'p0licy matters will be a part of this process. All economic, social, ethnic and cultural viewpoints
will :be consider through the process of LUP production.

1
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Tentative Date'
Event
February, 1995
Adoption of Citizen Participation Plan
March, 1995
Planning Board Workshop
April, 1995
Public Hearing on LUP (Planning Board).
Discussion of, and introduction to, Land
-Use Planning. Explanation of process.
Presentation of Existing Land Use information
(maps, facts, etc.)
May, 1995
Distribution of Citizen Survey Questionnaire
May 15, 1995
Public Meeting. Results of Questionnaire. Joint
meeting -of Planning Board and City Council.
June, 1995
Public Meeting. Draft policies presented to
Planning Board. Planning Board approval of
document.
July, 1995
Draft policies available for public review
and on display at City Hall.
August, 1995
City Council review of document.
September, 1995
Approval of draft LUP by City Council
September-30,1995
Draft plan submitted to NC Division of Coastal
Management for review and comment.
This Citizen Participation
Plan is Adopted the 23rd day of February, 1995, at the City of Northwest,
North Carolina.
.r
ATTEST:
Mayor, Cih of Ndrthwest
' Actual dates are subject to change as needs and circumstances dictate.
1
1
1
I

ATTACHMENT F
City
of Northwest
Brunswick Co
Northwest()
Northwest(')*
Northwest(')
1993
.56,322
658
658
658
1994
57,851
675
666
662
1995
59,376
692
674
666
1996
60,840
709
682
670
1997
62,335
726
690
674
1998
63,841
743
698
678
1999
65,353
760
706
682
2000
66,497
773
712
685
2001
68,019
790
720
689
2002
69,289
804
727
692
2003
70,596
819
734
696
2004
71,939
834
741
700
2005
73,285
849
748
704
2006
74,573
863
755
707
2007
75,897
878
762
711
2008
77,246
893
769
715
2009
78,606
908
776
719
2010
79,644
919
781
722
2011
- 80,999
934
788
726
2012
82,151
947
794
729
2013
83,342
960
800
732
2014
84,572
974
807
735
2015
85,804
988
814
738
' These figures have been compiled by Cape Fear Council of Governments from projections
supplied by the North Carolina Office of State Planning, December 1994. Figures projected are as
of July for each year given.
2 This column shows Northwest growing at the same rate as the County as a whole.
' This column shows Northwest growing at one-half the rate of the County as a whole.
' This column shows Northwest growing at twenty-five percent of the rate of the County as a
whole. At this level of analysis (year -by -year) these figures are not especially meaningful. They
could be altered dramatically by a few families moving into the City in one year. The comparative
analysis between years, as in comparing 1995 to 2010, is much more meaningful though it is still
speculative due to the percentages involved. The reader is instructed to use caution in the use of
these figures. The City believes these figures are low.

IATTACHMENT G
Brunswick Co
New Hanover Co
Pender Co
Columbus Co
Region/Total
'
1995
59,376
132,506
33,205
50,097
275,184
1996
60,840
133,930
33,861
49,934
278,565
1997
62,335
135,337
34,531
49,761
281,964
1998
63,841
136,733
35,200
49,623
285,397
1999
65,353
138,187
35,868
49,445
288,853
'
2000
66,497
139,332 -
36,374
49,291
291,494
2001
68,019
140,702
37,073
49,036
294,830
2002
69,289
141,769
37,661
48,827
297,546
2003
70,596
142,833
38,252
48,656
300,337
'
2004
71,939
143,966
38,847
48,449
303,201
2005
73,285
145,147
39,448
48,219
306,099
i2006
74,573
146,313
40,034
47,979
308,899
2007
- 75,897
147,482
40,635
47,733
311,747
2008
77,246
148,657
41,243
47,524
314,670
'
2009
78,606
149,920
41,859
47,281
317,666
2010
79,644
150,936
42,331
47,081
319,992
2011
80,999
152,141
42,990
46,766
322,896
2012
82,151
153,096
43,554
46,513
325,314
2013
83,342
154,066
44,126
46,299
327,833
2014
84,572
155,131
44,707
46,057
330,467
2015
85,804
156,237
45,299
45,796
333,136
These figures have been compiled by Cape Fear
Council of Governments
from projections supplied by the
North Carolina Office of State Planning, December 1994.
Figures projected are as of July for each year given.

rr rr rr� r rr r� rr rr r� rr rr rr �r rr r a� rr s rr
2.0 Year Population Projections
for Regionii*O By County
160,000
1409000
120,000
100,000
80,000
60,000
40,000
20,000
0
1990 1995 2000 ' 2005 2010 2015
SOURCE: NC Office of State
Planning. Graph created by CFCOG.
F-

CORPORATE LIMITS
O
0
O
°
O
O
°
0 O
O O I
O Q 4
O o
O � O
V7t
O 4r4 O
O O ---
0 0
O / ° ° / ° O
O / O
p / O
O O
O O 0,
�( t
O
O °O .;0
1995 0 0
O 9
City
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The information presented here is based upon the 911 G.I.S. Road Map Guide for
Brunswick County. The information was field checked in March 1995.
Prepared by: Cape Fear Council of Governments
1480 Harbour Drive
Wilmington, NC 28401
The PrAnwadon of this map was financed, in pact, througfr a Coastal Area
Man t act Vwx provided by the Ncuth Carolina Coastal Managernerit
Progr.'t ", thr * hwds'PrOvickd by the Coastal Zone Managerrtent Act of 1972, as
arnen*d, which is a*awtened,by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resou"
Managertre Nam Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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COMPOSITE
BOUNDARY AFAR
OF THE'
CITY OF /NORTHWEST=
AND ENVIRONS
BASED ON BRUNswcK CoJNTY TAX MAPS
NofiTHWEST TOWNSHIP 6Wl'ANSW/C/r COUNTY
NA4TH CARGIL/IV,4 '
SCAL E � / = BOO NOVEMBER, /992
ARNOLD W. CARSON
N.C. REG. LAND SURVEYOR Ns. L- 3267
PO. 8OX 248
HAMPSTEAO NC 28443
0 /U00(9/9) -32// x0 3" 4000, 5000,
•
PKC`L/NWARY: NOT r044Z R.=GOCZ"7-/^•/