Land Use Plan-1976

4AND •VSG PA'*wV;*aP
, I irm 8 Y,
oam..._
SOUTH PORT
LAND USE PLAN
Prepared by the
BOARD OF ALDERMEN
and
CITIZENS
of The City of Southport
North Carolina
With Assistance from
The Local Planning and Management
Services Section
Department of Natural and
Economic Resources-
1976

Ik
UA
.r
Prepared For:
City of Southport
E. B: Tomlinson, Jr., Mayor
Board of Aldermen
James Harold Davis
William P. Furpless
Mrs. Dorothy R. Gilbert
W. P. Horne
Conley D. Koontz
Mrs. Mary McHose
Alvin Kornegay, Jr., City Manager
Carter Lambeth, City Attorney
Prepared By: City Planning Board
Mrs. Earl Clewis
Roscoe Davis
Mrs. H. A. Franck
Mrs. Janice Jackson
J. K. Porterfield, Chairman.
Joe Walton, Jr.
J. D. Ward
Abstract: Land Use Plan prepared in accordance
with CAMA of 1974.
Technical Assistance
Provided By: North Carolina Department of Natural
and Economic Resources
Division of Community Assistance
Local Planning and Management Section
Southeastern Field Office, Wilmington
John J. Hooton, Chief Planner
Thomas M. Cassell, Planner -in -Charge
Melba Thompson, Planner Technician

LAND USE PLAN
Table of Contents
ARTICLE I - INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -1
ARTICLE II - PRESENT CONDITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Section 1: Population and Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Section 2: Existing Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Section 3: Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations . . . . . 19
ARTICLE III - PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Section 1: Public Participation Process . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Section 2: Major Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Section 3: Development Alternatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Section 4: Objectives and Policies for Dealing with Issues 29
ARTICLE IV - CONSTRAINTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Section 1: Land Potential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
a. Physical Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
b. Fragile Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
c. Areas with Resource Potential . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Section 2: Capacity of Community Facilities . . . . . . . . . 49
ARTICLE V - ESTIMATED DEMAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Section 1: Population and Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5z
Section 2: Future Land Use Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Section 3:. Community Facilities Demand . . . . . . . . . . . 60.
11

ARTICLE VI - PLAN IMPLEMENTATION : . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Section 1: Intergovernmental Coordination . . . . . . . . . 65
• Section 2: Land Classification System . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Section 3: Areas of Environmental Concern . . . . . . . . . . 69
Section 4: Location and Development Standards . . . . . . . . 78
ARTICLE VII - CONCLUSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
ARTICLE VIII - APPENDIX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
zr_

ARTICLE I - INTRODUCTION
Why have a Land Use PZan for Southport?
"In recent years the coastal area has been subjected to increasing
pressures which are the result of the often conflicting needs of a society
expanding in industrial development, in population, and in the recreational
aspirations of its citizens," according to the Coastal Area Management Act.
It goes on to say that "unless these pressures are controlled by coordi-
nated management, the very features of the coast which make it economically,
esthetically, and ecologically rich will be destroyed.
In adopting the Coastal Area Management Act for 1974, the North
Carolina General Assembly empowered local governments in twenty North
Carolina coastal counties to exercise control over their future. Communi-
ties along the coast are now blueprinting the best use of their valued
resources --whether it's their estuary and marshland waters, which serve as
a nursery for as much as ninety percent of the best sport fisheries.in
the east; or their beaches, which serve as recreational havens for those
employed in the ever-expanding urban centers.
Designed to be a cooperative program, local governments are authorized
to initiate planning for their local values, and State government to define
those areas valued for more general use. In addition to granting some
financial support for local planning, the State is to provide guidelines and
assistance necessary to enforce the plans adopted by a particular community.
Public participation in developing the Land Use Plan has been enlisted
by: 1) public meetings held by the Planning Board, 2) two -surveys:' one
• mailed to 1000 water and sewer customers; the other, a sampling from all
neighborhoods conducted by high school students, 3) numerous informal
discussions with citizens regarding their interests, 4) meetings with
-1-

local civic groups, 5). coverage by local weekly newspaper.
The scope of the Land Use Plan is outlined in the table of contents.
• It benefits greatly from the "State Guidelines for Local Planning
adopted by the Coastal Resources Commission in January, 1975, and amended
• that October. The local plan includes a summary of data collected and its
analysis; maps of existing land use, types of soil, and.Areas of Environ-
mental Concern; and a section on how the land use objectives, policies,
and standards for Southport can be implemented.
Following its presentation to the Planning Board and the Board of
Aldermen last November, the Plan was forwarded to the Coastal Resources
Commission for comments and suggestions. In addition, some two dozen
State and Federal agencies have added observations from their particular
frame of reference and expertise. The Plan and Synopsis were adopted by
the Board of Aldermen, May 13, 1976.
I
-2-

ARTICLE II - PRESENT CONDITIONS
Section 1: Population and Economyl
The population of Southport, as well as that of Brunswick County has
witnessed a period of startling growth. The establishment of two large
industrial plants near the city has been accompanied by a major influx of
workers which has added significantly to the total population. The 1970
United States Census (the last official enumeration) placed the total
count of persons in Southport at 2220, and that of Brunswick County at
24,223. These figures represent increases from the 1960 Census of 9.1%
and 19.4% respectively. With due regard to the 1970 statistics, however,
it is a generally recognized fact that a great deal of change has occurred
within the last few years which would probably render 1970 data particularly
deceptive. The North Carolina Office of State Planning, for example, esti-
mates the population of Southport as of July 1, 1974, to be 2,900 persons,
while other unofficial estimates have reached as high as 3,200. The vast
majority of this upsurge is most likely an outgrowth of industrial expan-
sion, particularly the Carolina Power and Light Company Nuclear Power
Generating Station located just outside of town. This industry has employed
a large quantity of construction workers during the early part of the
seventies, and will continue to provide jobs for a large number of workers
on a permanent basis. Smithville Township, where the plant itself is located,
registered a gain of 29.5% (about 1,000 persons) during the decade,.indicat-
ing that some people are taking up residence near the plant, but outside of
the city limits per se.
1North Carolina Department of Natural and Economic Resources, Division
of Community Assistance Community Profile, Southport, N. C., .David,
Long January 1975.
r
-3-

Migration rates which have been calculated for Brunswick County
reflect the assumption that more and more of the County's people are
staying in the county rather than moving out. A study done in 1969,
for example, compared specific age groups in 1950 with the same groups
a decade later in order to measure the percentage of persons who had
remained within the county during that period (e. g., ages 25-34 in
1950 compared with ages 35-44 in 1960). In every case Brunswick had
shown a loss of residents, that is, less than 100% remained ten years
later. From 1960 to 1970, the situation was altered significantly:
most age groups exhibited net gains (over 100%) during this span, and iri
each instance, the percentage of persons continuing to reside in the
county was larger than that experienced during the previous enumeration.
Although age breakdowns are unavailable for 1975, the reportedly sub-
stantial additions to the total population would lend support to the
notion that currently, an even higher proportion of each age group is
being retained. These statistics tend to indicate that Brunswick County
is becoming an increasingly attractive area in which to live and work:
The median age of a population, that is, the point at which half
of the people are older and half.are younger, gives a description of the
age composition of a given population. The forces which normally act on
the median age are births, deaths, and migration, and the complex inter-
play of these forces can drive the age either up or down. There is presently
a nationwide trend toward lower birth rates, and this has caused the median
age to rise slightly, since young people become a lesser proportion of the
total. From 1960 to 1970, each segment under study (male, female, black,
white) grew older. The median age for all groups in Brunswick County was
26.4 in 1970 as opposed to 23.9 in 1960. Southport in 1970 stood at 32.2
and Smithville Township registered 32.4, while the North Carolina figure
was 26.5. The reason for this appears to be that Southport contains a
relatively large sector of elderly people (those over 65) within its bounda-
ries. North Carolina, for example, listed 34.6% of its people less than
age 18 and Southport compared closely with 32.2%. In the over 65 category,
-4-

however, Southport contrasted significantly with 12.9% versus the state
average of 8.1% . . . nearly one and one half times as many. This situation
could have possibly changed since the last Census, but from these figures,
it would appear. that Southport is a favorable environment for the elderly,
perhaps the retiree, and should take this into account when formulating
policies and programs in the future.
POPULATION CHANGE 1930-1970
Brunswick
1930
15,818
1940
17,125
(+8.3%)
1950
19.238
(+12.3%)
1960
20,278
(+5.4%)
1970
24,223
(+19.5%)
Source: U.S. Census, 1970
Southport
Wilmington
Burgaw
Whiteville
Smithville Twu
2912
2936 (+0.8%)
2873 (-2.2%)
3355 (+16.8%)
4346 (+29.5%)
Southport
1760
1760 (0.0%)
1748 (0.7%)
2034 (16.4%)
2220 (+9.1%)
SURROUNDING CITIES: POPULATION CHANGE 1960 -70
Source: U. S..Census, 1970
1960
1970
% Change
2034
2220
+9.1
44013
46169
+4.9
1750
1744
-0.3
4683
4195
-10.4
I
MIGRATION RATES:
BRUNSWICK CO.
1950-60, 1960-70
0-4
5-9
10-14
15-19
20-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
Age Groups in 1960
2441
2469
2417
1928
1125
2298
2509
2155
Same Group in 1970
2653
2320
1840
1542
1326
2634
2677
2320
Percent Remaining
109%
94
76
80
118
115
107
108
Percent Remaining
1950-60 96%
81
54
61
81
94
92
88
Source: Southport Population & Economy Study 1969 and Calculated from Census, 1970
-5-

POPULATION
CHARACTERISTICS:,
1970
Total Male
Female
Waite
Black
Under 18 Over 65
.Med.-Age
Brunswick
24,223 50%
502
69%
30%
37.4%
8.4%
26.4
Smithville Twp.
4,346 49%
51%
72%
26%
32.4%
12.1%
32.4
Southport
2,220 47%
53%
62%
35%
32.7%
12.9%
32.4
North Carolina
5,082,059 49%
51%
77%
22%
34.6%
8.1%
26.5
Source: U.S. Census, 1970
MEDIAN AGE:
BRUNSWICK CO.
1940 =
1970
White Male White
Female
Black Male
Black Female
1940
22.3
21.5
20.1
20.2
1950
25.1
24.4
19.2
19.9
1960
27.8
28.0
17.4
18.2
1970
28.8
29.7
18.9
20.8
Source: U.S. Census, 1970
An accurate appraisal of Southport's economy would be especially
difficult to gauge at the time of this report. The latest Census figures
are probably outdated, and the economic picture as of January, 1975, is
hopefully not representative of the first half of the seventies as a
unit. Certain valuable information may be extracted from existing economic
data, however, and should merit close attention.
A delineation of occupations by class of industry reveals two basic
differences between Brunswick County and the State. Based on employment
in 1969, the percentage of workers engaged in construction is more than
twice the state average for the same category . . . 14.7% compared to
6.7%. This gain is offset by a proportionately small segment of the labor
force employed within the manufacturing sector. Brunswick registers
approximately one fourth of its workers in this category while the state
total is greater than one third (Brunswick 25.9%, North Carolina 35.4%).
According to the North Carolina Employment Security Commission's Annual
Average Labor Force Estimates 1970-73, this trend seems to be leveling off
somewhat. Construction labor reached a peak in 1972 and fell in 1973 and
1974, while manufacturing as a rule has been steadily increasing. In the
remaining categories, Brunswick very closely parallels state averages.
Figures for the rate of unemployment are reproduced in the statistical
section of this report on two different bases. The first, 1970-73 estimates,
indicates that Brunswick should be lowering its rate of unemployment. Due
- 6-

to the instability of the national economy at this time,.however, these
implications should not be relied upon too heavily. In order to analyze the
current situation, a second table is included listing unemployment for the
period July - November, 1974. Of the six counties shown,.Brunswick is the
highest in unemployment with 10.1% of its labor force jobless as of November.
The North Carolina rate as of December 1974 was 8.1%. Local observers of
the economy tend to believe that much of Brunswick's unemployment is related
to closing and layoffs.of several small businesses located primarily in.
the southern section of the county. Unemployment in Southport itself is
currently being attributed to the stagnant condition of the small scale
construction industry and also the fishing industry. These businesses are
seasonable and usually decline during the winter months, but they have been
especially hard hit recently. Long term contractural work, such as the
Carolina Power and Light and Pfizer Company construction projects, are
believed to have exerted a stabilizing force on the local economy in the
sense that they have continued to maintain their operations with few layoffs
while similar smaller concerns have been faltering.
Characteristics of income include median family income, per capita
income, and those persons/families below the poverty level. The median
family income for Brunswick County as of 1970 was $6,409 as measured
against $7,774 for the state, a deficiency of 17.6%. Half of the families
in the county have incomes above this level, and half are below.. The per
capita income, which is the total income divided by each man, woman and
child was $2,010 for Brunswick and $2,492 for the state, a deficit of
19.4%. Poverty level statistics are based on a formula which accounts
for number of persons in a family, sex of head of household, agricultural/
non-agricultural subsistence, etc. There is no set income below which is
considered "poverty stricken", rather, it is a flexible level which con-
siders many components. Once adjustments are made, however, Brunswick still
has a larger number of poverty cases. The incidence of poverty for all
persons is roughly 36% greater than the state average. Personal income
projections computed by the North Carolina Department of Administration for
Planning Region 0 (Brunswick, Columbus, New Hanover, and Pender Counties)
predict that the discrepancy between the overall income of the region and
that of the nation will slowly begin to close within the coming decades.
-7-

In 1980, Region 0's income is projected to be 71% of the national average -
and by the year 2020 should reach 85%. It should be kept in mind that
these are very far-sighted forecasts and could change drastically over the
next fifty years nevertheless, they can be viewed as a long-term spark of
optimism.
UNEMPLOYMENT: JULY - NOVEMBER, 1974
Brunswick Columbus Carteret New Hanover Onslow Pender
July 7.3% 7.0%
3.2%
4.2%
6.9%
7.6%
August 6.6 6.9
2.7
3.8
5.9
9.1
September 7.4 7.2
3.4
4.2
4.8
9.3
October 7.2 8.1
4.5
4.1
4.9
7.4
November 10.1 9.5
6.1
5.8
8.1
9.7
Source: North Carolina Employment Security
Commission
AVERAGE ANNUAL LABOR FORCE ESTIMATES 1970-73
Brunswick County
1973
1972 1971
1970
" Civilian Labor Force
10,680
10,390 8,480
8,580
Unemployment, Total
480
560 560
430
Rate of Unemployment
4.5
5.4 6.6
5.0
Employment, Total
10,200
9,830 7,920
8,150
Agricultural Employment
530
530 510
560
Nonag..Wage & Salary Emply.
8,340
7,990 6,320
6,490
All Other Nonag. Employment
1,330
1,310 1,090
1,100
INDUSTRY EMPLOYMENT BY PLACE OF WORK
Manufacturing
3,060
2,560
1,480
1,690
Food
120
90
80
80
Lumber & Wood
60
80
90
100
Other Manufacturing
2,880
2,390
1,310
1,510
Non -Manufacturing
5,830
6,330
419550
3,440
Construction
2,620
2,930
1,240
220
Trans., Comm., & P.
Util. 310
660
790
1,010
Trade
1,020
940
750
730
Fin., Ins., & Real
Estate 230
200
130
110
Service
250
230
240
190
Government
1,280
1,280
1,360
1,160
Other Manufacturing
120
90
40
20
Source: North Carolina
Employment Security Commission

(1969) OCCUPATION BY INDUSTRY OF EMPLOYED PERSONS 16 AND OVER
Brunswick
North Carolina
Construction
1147
(14.7)
6.7x
Manufacturing
2031
(25.9)
35.4
Transportation, Communications
757
(9.7)
5.6
Utilities and Sanitation
Wholesale and Retail
1384
(17.7)
17.6
Financial, Insurance, Business
367
(4.7)
5.6
and Repair
Health, Education, Welfare, Legal
854
(10.9)
14.2
and Misc. Professional Services
Public Administration
378
(4.8)
3.5
Other Industries (Agriculture, Foreatry,
910
(11.6)
11.4
Fisheries, mines, Personal Services)
7828
(100%)
100i
Note: Figures for Southport are unavailable
at
this time,
but should be
available soon.
Source: U.S. Census 1970
(1969) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME FOR FAMILIES
-
Brunswick
N. C.
Less Than $1,000
334
(5.4x
3.4X
$1000
- 1999
540
(8.7)
5.4
2000
- 2999
432
(7.0)
5.7
3000
- 3999
t449
(7.2)
6.5
4000
- 4999
593
(9.7)
7.2
5000
- 5999
548
(8.8)
8.0
6000
- 6999
496
(8.0)
7.8
7000
- 7999
362
(5.8)
7.7
8000
- 8999
436
(7.0
7.6
9000
- 9999
426
(6.9)
6.9
10000
-11999
665
(10.7)
11.7
12000
-14999
411
(6.6)
10.6
15000
-24999
!407
(6.6)
9.0
25000
-49999
84
(1.4)
2.0
Greater Than $50,000
15 (0.2)
0.5
•6198
100X
100Z
Source: U. S. Census 1970
(1969) PERSONAL INCOME CHARACTERISTICS
Median Family Income
Mean Family Income
Per Capita Income
Persons Below Poverty Level
Famililies Below Poverty Level
Brunswick Co.
Total Black
$6409 $4568
7468 5740
2010 1219
i7.7% 51.5%
22.9% 44.7%
North Carolina
Total Black
$7774 $4803
8872 5682
2492 1342
20.3% 44.5%
16.3% 38.7%
Source: U. S. Census, 1970 -9-

Section 2: Existing Land Use
The existing land use (Map I) of the Southport planning area is
• illustrated on the next page. Together with the accompanying table
the general land use of the community is indicated. The classification of
land use was made for the most part in accordance with the U..S. Department
of Interior's "A Land -Use Classification System for Use with Remote -Sensor
Data." The following is a brief description of the various uses with
particular attention given to:
--Significant land use compatibility problems;
--Major problems which have resulted from unplanned development,
and which have implications for future land use;
--An identification of areas experiencing or likely to experience
major changes in predominant land uses;
--Areas of Environmental Concern.
Category
SOUTHPORT LAND USE
Within Corporate Limits
Approximate
Acreage Percent
Extraterritorial
Jurisdiction
Approximate
Acreage Percent
1.
Residential
360.0
28.98
150.4
6
Single Family
351.0
145.6
Multi Family
5.1
0.0
Mobile Home
3.9
4.8
2.
Commercial
22.4
1.80
17.3
less than 1
3.
Industrial
1.6
0.12
50.0
2
4.
Transportation, Communication
and Utilities
186.0
14.97
24.8
1
5.
Government & Institutional
69.5
5.59
3.8
less than 1
6.
Cultural, Entertainment &
Recreational
3.2
0.25
0.0
0
7.
Agricultural* & Forest/land
235.5
18.95
1881.3
78
8.
Wetlands
244.0
19.66
270.8
11
9.
Undeveloped
120.0
9.68
0.0
0
•
Total
1242.2
100.00
2398.4
100
* Included in forest land due
to photo
data
•
Source:. Soil Conservation Service aerial
photos
(2/4/72)
N. C. DNER, DCA
Windshield
Survey (12/74)
N. C. DOT Aerial
Photos (12/18/74)
-10-

Residential Land Use
This category accounts for 32% of the total land use in Southport.
Residential structures are almost exclusively single family dwelling units.
The first problem regarding residential land use is strip development
occurring along the major thoroughfares particularly in the extra -territorial
area. This threatens to "land lock" quantities of desirable land located
behind the roads, and increase the possibility of future blight of houses
presently being built along these roads. Another consequence of strip
development is the connecting driveways along major thoroughfares. Numerous
individual driveways greatly decrease the utility of the road and increase
the danger to residents and motoring public.
The second problem relative to residential land use is the condition
of homes as witnessed during the land use survey conducted by the Division
of Community Assistance personnel in December, 1974. The Bureau of Census
in 1970 reported that 14.6% of all housing units (811) in Southport lacked
some or all plumbing facilities.: However, this represents a reduction in
substandard homes since 1960 when 31% of occupied houses lacked some or all
plumbing facilities. The City of Southport compares less favorable with
the state as a whole. In North Carolina 14.3 percent of all housing units
lacked some or all plumbing facilities.2
The extra territorial jurisdictional area is and will continue to
experience major changes in predominant land use. Increased residential
development causing urban sprawl has occurred in areas adjacent to the
Carolina Power and Light nuclear plant and Pfizer Industries. Approximately
6% of the total land use in the extra -territorial jurisdiction is devoted
to residents. This is the major urban use of land in this area.
2U. S.`Bureau of Census, Census of Housing 1960 to 1970 General Housing
Characteristics.
-12-

Commenting further on residential land use in the Southport planning
area, one finds, as is the case throughout North Carolina, a growing number
of mobile homes. This is particularly true in the extra -territorial area.
The mobile home now and in the future will house families for permanent and
vacation housing, therefore, the same considerations should be given the
• mobile home as is given to the conventional residential dwelling.
Commercial Land Use
Less than 3% of the total land use in the Southport planning area is
devoted to commercial uses. This is a result of the retail marketing
influence of Wilmington. Nevertheless, expanding economic developmentA n
Smithville Township has brought about an increase in commercial trade and
services --witnessed the opening of a new savings and loan association,
restaurant, and grocery store during 1975.
Also recent development has seen the establishing of a community
shopping center at the intersection of North Howe Street and NC 87. Not
only will this event spur additional commercial activity (which is permitted
by the Zoning Ordinance) along Howe Street but, moreover, it threatens the
economic stability of the central business district.
Other areas of commercial concentration are those adjacent to the
small boat harbor marina and the Old Yacht basin. These areas, as expected,
serve primarily the boating public and commercial fisherman. Naturally,
the future development of these areas depends on their respective trade.:
Industrial Land Use
Until recently the industrial activity in Smithville Township was
nominal at best. The construction of Carolina Power and Light's nuclear
_ generating plant (actually CP&L is classified as a utility) and Pfizer's
citric acid plant has changed considerably the complexion of the area.
However, there has been almost no change in industrial land use inside the
city limits. Almost all of CP&L's 3000 acres lies beyond the extra-
territorial area and of Pfizer's 1300 acres, approximately 50 acres are
within the extra -territorial area. It is anticipated that both CP&L's
-13-

utility plant and Pfizer, given their location and the commodity produced,
will attract additional development within the vicinity. Thus, land which
is not owned by either company becomes attractive for a multiple of uses
which could serve to reduce the value for potential industry.
From the Community Profile, Southport, N. C., we see that Brunswick
County's major industrial employment in 1973 was in non -manufacturing with
construction, government, and trade the leading groups. While we do not
have specific information for Southport we can surmise that this is repre-
sentative of Southport since at that time it was the center of county govern-
ment, home of the county hospital, and near the sites of two large construc-
tion projects. Another important employment aspect of the community is the
fishing industry. While we are unable to determine the exact value added
by this segment we know that it is a commercial and sport fishing center
for the county. This is especially important at a time when statistics
indicate that the total landings in quantity for shellfish and finfish are
decreasing (1960-73) in the state as a whole while Brunswick County has its
largest total landings in quantity ever recorded in 1972.3
Some of the largest employers in the Southport planning area are:
Company
Year est.
Product
Employees
Blake ;builders Supply
1950
building supplies
45
Boiling Springs Const. Co.
1973
grading and paving
65
Brown & Root, Inc.
1969
construction (CP&L)
2000
Caroon's Crab Co.
1965
fresh and frozen seafood
30
Carolina Power & Light
1975
electrical power
175
Daniels Const. Co.
1974
construction (Pfizer)
1040
East Coast Ice & Fisheries
1973
manuf. ice
25
Pfizer, Inc.
1975
citric acid
30
3Easley, J. E. Jr., and
Beth Sossamon .
N. C. Fisheries.Data N. C.
Agric.
Extension Service No.
1974 page 6 29.
-14-

Transportation, Communication, and Utilities Land Use
Transportation, communication, and utilities represent the third
largest land use within the city limits with approximately 17% of the
total land. The bulk of this consists of street rights -of -way which are
in many instances 99 feet in width.
Table II
Southport, N.C. 1974 Average Daily Traffic Count4
Location ADT
N. Howe St. at city limits 8850
Howe St. at Moore St. 620o
just north of junction NC211&87 6200
Moore St. 100 block 3000
North Leonard St. & SR1526 3050
Southport -Fort Fisher Ferry 77
These figures indicate more than a 168 percent increase in traffic along
North Howe Street since 1967.5 Other thoroughfares have experienced a
considerable increase in traffic volume too. Increased traffic volume and
generally inaccessible areas in the northeast quadrant of the planning area
produce a poor circulation pattern. Future subdivision and major thorough-
fares need to be better coordinated. Additional problems encountered with
traffic circulations are: natural soil and water barriers throughout the
community; unpaved streets particularly in the northwest quadrant; narrow
pavement; and development within rights -of -way particularly in the city.
Other uses within this category include the sewage treatment plant on
West Street and water pumping stations on Howe, Leonard, and Moore.Streets.
Government and Institutional Land Use
This category occupies six percent of land use within the corporate
4N. C. DOT, Division of Highways Raleigh 1974.
5N. C. Dept. of Conservation & Development, DCP Land'Development Plan,
Southport, N. C. 1969 page 30.
-15

limits and less than one percent in the extraterritorial area. As of this
date, there are three facilities in this category whose future is unknown.
They are: Dosher Memorial Hospital, County Courthouse and Tax Office Depart-
ment and old primary school. Since several local agencies are in need of
new facilities it would be in the best interest of the community to make
these existing facilities available by offering first refusal to local
agencies once they are vacated. Other large land uses in this category are:
small boat harbor, new primary school, Fort Johnston, Southport city garage
and cemeteries, and churches.
There are ten churches located in Southport. Many of these, such as
Saint Phillip's Episcopal, are of great historical value and reflect past
period of architectural style and achievement. A future community appearance/
architectural review program should address religious centers to protect them
from encroaching land uses.
The Southport schools are operated by one administrative unit:
Brunswick County School System. South Brunswick High School serves the
Southport planning area and is located near Boiling Springs Lakes..
There are two schools within the city limits of Southport: Southport
Primary School located on West George Street and Southport Middle School
located on 8th Street.
Cultural, Entertainment, and Recreational Land Use
This is one of smallest categories of land use acreage in Southport.
It consists primarily of recreational use. Franklin Square Park is located
adjacent to the Southport City Hall, and the old Southport High School
athletic field is located at the East Nash Street. A neighborhood park was
recently dedicated at the corner of Owens and Clarendon Streets, and another
at the corner of Moore and Caswell Streets. There is a municipal fishing
pier at the end of Davis Street. There are additional facilities owned by
the Brunswick County School System, but are not at this time commonly used
by the general public. There is also a community center building adjacent
to Fort Johnston for meetings by local civic groups. The Frying Pan Light-
ship on the waterfront is open to the public.
-16-

.
The 1969 Land Development Plan and the 1974'Community Facilities Plan
identified the tremendous need to upgrade recreational opportunities in
Southport. At present, the Board of Aldermen are negotiating with property
owners to purchase the area between the municipal pier and Whittler's Bench
for a waterfront park. This is a highly desirable site for recreational
purposes. Additional consideration has been given recently to the hiring
of a full time recreational director. If these two events occur, then
recreational activities will be given a significant commitment by the City
of Southport which it so desperately needs.
Agriculture and Forestland
This category represents approximately twenty-one percent of land _
use within the corporate limits and nearly seventy-eight percent in the -extra-
territorial area. The amount of acreage was determined by using Soil
Conservation Service aerial photographs (2/5/72). Due to the date of the
photos it was not feasible to delineate agricultural land separate from
forestland.
Owing to recent economic development pressure and urban sprawl this
category is likely to experience the greatest transformation in the future.
Land that is owned by individual property owners but not forest product
companies is more susceptible to this pressure. Thus, it is more important
that agricultural and forestland conversion to urban land be given careful
review so that new uses will be compatible. An example is best illustrated
by the construction of the Pfizer plant which was previously an area of
agriculture and forestry. These "pressures" will be exerted to develop lands
between Pfizer and Southport, thereby contributing to further urban sprawl
and inefficient utility service.
Wetlands
Wetlands include the following land uses: low tidal marsh, other
marsh land, water, estuarine streams and waterways. These land uses were
-17-

identified from.the following sources:
SCS aerial photographs (2/5/72)
N. C. DOT aerial photographs (12/18/74)
N. C. DNER,. Marine Fisheries, aerial photographs (1973)
For various reasons, such as changes in watercourses; difference in scale
of photos; and date and time differences of photos, it is most difficult
to analyze the impact that development is having upon wetlands. Nevertheless,
the most notable changes have occurred along the waterfront and surrounding
the mouth of the tributaries which drain the upland areas of Southport.
Sediment carried downstream is deposited at the junction with larger water
bodies. In some cases this process has been speeded up by man with the
filling in of areas such as Bonnett's Creek, small boat harbor, and near
the municipal pier. Due to the significant part wetlands play in the
development of our marine and wildlife resources, it is imperative that
these areas be preserved in their natural state. Wetlands constitute
almost ten percent of the total land area in the planning area. Prince's
Creek and Bennett's Creek are threatened more by recent development than
others and should be given adequate protection for future survival.
Undeveloped Land
Undeveloped land is vacant, unimproved land without agricultural or
forest use. This category occupies approximately eleven percent of the.
land in Southport. This is an important resource for prudent development
in the future. City officials should encourage and promote the utilization
of this land in order to achieve "economy of scale" in terms of municipal
services.
9

Areas of Environmental Concern
The Southport planning area contains the following potential areas of
environmental concern:
Coastal Wetlands CW
Estuarine Waters EW
Historic Places HP
Coastal Flood Plains CF
Areas Containing Unique Geolo-
gical Formations GF
Public Trust Waters PT
To some degree, some more severly than others, all the areas are
experiencing the impact of recent development. A detailed description of
each area and its affect upon adjacent land use appears later in this
text.
Section 3: Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations
The following plans have been prepared by Southport with technical
assistance from the Division of Community Assistance and have significant
implications for land use:
Plan
Date Published
Phase I Population & Economy Study
January 1969
Phase II Land Use Survey & Analysis
January 1969
Phase III Land Development Plan
April 1969
Extraterritorial Area Land Development Plan
February 1973
Community Facilities Plan, Public Improvement
Program, Capital Improvements Budget
March 1974
Initial Housing Element
June 1974
Community Profile
January 1975
• The City of Southport has means of enforcing these regulations but has
been hampered by a part-time building inspector who is paid on a fee basis,
• confusion on the part of boards (e. g., Board of Adjustment) on their
duties and responsibilities, and unwillingness of governing body to follow
all recommendations of advisory groups and city attorney.
-19-

ARTICLE III - PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ACTIVITIES
Section 1: Public Participation Process
The Coastal Area Management Act could not have come at a more critical
+ time for the Southport planning area. Yet, land use planning has had to
take a back seat to more pressing political issues in Brunswick County.
The relocation of the county seat and the construction.of the new hospital
which will occur near Bolivia have consumed a major portion of the elected
officials' time and citizens' attention. These facilities will have a major
impact on future settlement patterns within the county.
However, efforts were made to provide information and to solicit actual
involvement in the preparation of Southport's Land Use Plan. Among the
steps taken were:
1) Reorganizing the Planning Board into a functioning advisory group;
2) Conducting two opinion surveys; mailing 1000 questionnaires to
water and sewer customers and sample interviews conducted by
high school students in all neighborhoods;
3) Meetings with local civic groups. to discuss community issues
and goals;
4) Open public meetings conducted by the Planning Board employing
the Nominal Group Technique to identify and prioritize issues
as perceived by that group; and
5) Local weekly newspaper coverage.
An initial survey was conducted by mailing questionnaires to 1000
residents who received city water and sewer service. Furthermore, high
school students conducted a random survey by interviews covering all
neighborhoods which essentially supported the results of the first survey.
The results appear below.
The following represents an analysis of opinions of the 130
persons who took the time, including one individual who penned a poem
IWIM

to emphasize his or her dismay with regard to sewer service.
The median age of the respondent is 59 years of age --generally of an
age group who would have more time to complete a questionnaire but, cer-
tainly not to be considered a cross section of the community. (In 1970,
the median age of Southport's population was 32 years of age.) Of those
responding, eighty-eight percent live in a single-family dwelling.
Community Growth
The fifth question dealt with the amount of community growth desired.
Forty-seven percent wanted a slight increase in population; thirty-three
percent wanted a great increase, while seventeen percent wanted the popula-
tion to remain the same.
Development Preferences
The sixth question asked which type of development would you like to
see more or less of in Southport? The following types of development were
requested most often in order of priority: single-family dwelling, recrea-
tional facilities and public open space, industrial, commercial and apart-
ments. The least requested type of developments were mobile homes and
condominiums.
Reasons for Locating
The seventh question dealt with the reasons for locating in Southport.
In most cases, several reasons were indicated thus, of 220 selections:
thirty-two percent chose the community for its pleasant surroundings;
twenty-four percent because of its closeness to family and friends; and
sixteen percent said because it was close to work. Of all the choices
provided the least selected was due to the proximity to the beach and low
taxes, all of which was not too surprising in view of the median age of the
respondee.
Public Expenditures
The eighth question probed which areas do you feel more or less
-21-

public funds should be spent? The categories receiving the highest number
of votes in order were: park and recreational facilities and programs,
water and sewer service, fire and police protection, and roads. The catego-
ries receiving the fewest number of votes in order were: industrial develop-
ment, (it should be pointed out that while this category was number one for
least expenditures, it was still less total votes than the category receiving
the fewest votes for more expenditures), environmental protection, and town
management.
Likes and DisZikes
The ninth question was, what do you like most about Southport? The
responses occurring most often were the people, location, climate, and
the hospital. The tenth question asks just the opposite. Items mentioned
most frequently were: too rapid pace of growth, unsightly and unkept yards,
lots, and rights -of -way, and roaming dogs.
Areas of EnvironmentaZ Concern
Question number eleven was to determine whether there was support.
for restrictive.development along fragile and biological productive areas
of the coast. From the response, it may generally be concluded that the
respondents were opposed to development on land near inlets, marshes and
dunes; while permitting to some degree, development on beaches and along
the inland waterway.
Areas for Preservation
Question number twelve asks for any specific locations which one
felt should be preserved or protected in its natural state. The most fre-
quently mentioned areas were: Franklin Park, waterfront,.old yacht basin,
Bonnetts Creek and other watercourses. Additional comments offered were
regarding the maintenance of Dosher Hospital, the need fora dog ordinance,
and additional boat access and public parks.
-22-

Section 2: Major Issues
In order to formulate a series of goals and objectives which can in
turn be molded into policies for future development, we must identify the
major land use issues facing the Southport planning area. The following
is a discussion of issues under five broad headings. An issue is defined
as "a point of debate or controversy" and only through a discussion of all
the issues can we hope to begin to achieve the optimum accommodation of
spatial growth.
Impact of Population and Economic Trends
The Southport planning area has experienced unparalleled economic
growth in its history. It is a difficult task to measure the long-term
impact of the development which has occurred. We know that it has pro-
vided benefits in terms of: increased tax base to support governmental
services to mention one. However, we also know that unless development
policies are implemented, that this unprecedented growth can cause
unmanageable consequences in terms of increased school enrollment, unmet
health care needs, traffic congestion, spiraling demand for police and
fire protection, increased social services demand, unavailability of
adequate recreational facilities and continued demand for water and sewer
services also.
The important impact of this new growth will be felt upon the policies,
ordinances, and administrative mechanisms which are presently in place. It
has been pointed out by citizen survey, governmental bodies, and in public
discussion of the general laxity and arbitrariness in which many adopted
policies and ordinances are presently being enforced by City officials.
Vested interests will continue to exert pressure and influence on city
policy.
Another impact in the Southport planning area has resulted in an increased
community demand -for "low density sprawl. Low density sprawl.is defined as
the entire community consisting of single family homes, seventy-five percent
sited in a traditional grid pattern and the rest clustered. Neighbcnccods
are in a leapfrog pattern with little continuity. As indicated by the
land use survey analysis, the Southport planning area clearly exemplies
-23-

this point and already we see signs of this pattern continuing.
Unfortunately, the cost analysis of this pattern of development as
compared with "combination mix" and "high density planned" reveals
that in every factor (operating and maintenance cost, water pollution
generation, energy consumption, land utilization, water consumption, and
capital cost) the overall cost to the neighborhood or community is
significantly more.6
In particular, along Jabbertown Road and Moore Street extension,
residential development has occurred as opposed to the development of
available residentially zoned land located within the City limits. The
aging solution.to this trend--annexation--only perpetuates the problem.
Furthermore, residential development is not the only land use affected
by urban sprawl. Strip commercial development which is sanctioned by
the Zoning Ordinance along North Howe Street, NC 133 and 211, threatens
a very attractive and viable central business district.
Another impact of recent population and economic growth has been
the increased traffic congestion and lack of accessibility particularly
in the northeast quadrant. Interestingly enough, is the fact that
Brunswick County has one of the highest traffic accident death rates of
any county in Southeastern North Carolina. Associated with congestion
is the potential for water, air, and noise pollution -which affects the
social as well as the physical environment. While there is a lack of
specific monitoring data, engineering calculations would suggest that
water and air resources have probably experienced some contamination as
a result of recent development.
Another impact is speculation. Much of the haphazard and unplanned
growth occurring around Southport can be traced to land speculation. Strip
developments as previously mentioned form a thin veneer of intensive land
6Real Estate Research Corp., The Cost of Sprawl, Executive Summary
April 1974 Pages 2-8.
-24-

use that hides much larger areas of undeveloped vacant land. Most of these
interior lands are being held with the hope that they will eventually
command a higher price.
Other land use issues are: loss of open space, use of the best
agricultural land for development, and premature land development.
Housing and Other Services
The primary housing and housing related controversies in the Southport
planning area are: public concern over subsidized housing; local responsi-
bility for increasing housing opportunity; absence of vacant standard units;
non -available variety of housing; quantity of substandard units; high
percentage of substandard units which are rental properties; scattered
trash and abandoned vehicles throughout the community; poor street condi-
tions in substandard housing areas; and the City's unofficial posture to
discourage the use of mobile homes yet an obvious reluctancy to abide by
land use controls as adopted.7
The two most controversial issues in Brunswick County are over the
relocation of the county seat and the establishment of a new county hospital
near Bolivia.
Due to recent growth in the Southport area and its environmental
attractiveness, the relocation of the county seat offices would not appear
to be a prolonged economic loss to the Southport business community. Many
county departments are quartered in temperary offices.
The construction of the new county hospital has been resisted by
residents.of the Southport area only if it means the closing of Arthur J.
Dosher Hospital in Southport. Recent growth in the Southport area can be
attributed in part because of this facility. The community does not want
to break commitments to its citizens.
7Department of Natural and Economic Resources, Division of Community
Assistance Southport, N. C. Initial Housing Element June 1974
pages 1-4. -25-

The major substandard housing area lies in the northwest quadrant
bound by Howe, Burrington, Ninth and Brown Streets. Good housing is needed
for industrial stability and growth.
The City of Southport provides the following services and facilities
to its residents: City Hall, police and fire protection, public library,
water and sewer service, electric distribution service, recreation, refuse
collection and disposal, streets, city garbage, cemeteries, street lighting
and signs. Of those services and facilities, the following have been
recommended for major improvement: fire protection improvement by obtaining
a Class 7 rating; water and sewer service capacity and extension improve-
ment; acquiring adequate and highly desirable recreational areas.8
Conservation of Productive Natural Resources
Foremost among the Southport planning area's productive natural
resources are the applicable Areas of Environmental Concern. A detailed
discussion of relevant Areas of Environmental Concern appears later. The
designation and enforcement of AEC policy objectives and appropriate uses
will no doubt give rise to dispute.
Soils, surface water, groundwater, and air quality are productive
natural resources which deserve the utmost consideration in the management
of these limited natural resources. A thorough examination of these factors
begins under Article IV "Constraints."
Protection of Important Natural Environments
Probably the most important natural environment in the Southport
planning area is the waterfront which constitutes several natural resources.
While this environment provides recreation for some and a livelihood for
others, it is largely responsible for the settlement of Southport. Without
8Department of Natural and Economic Resources, Division of Community
Assistance Community Facilities, Public Improvements Program, and
Capital Improvements Budget, Southport, N. C. March 1974 pages 1-22.
-26-

a doubt, he waterfront and its access to the ocean is Southport's greatest
asset. As the community continues to grow there will be added "pressure"
for developing the waterfront for a multiple of uses. As the existing
land use map indicates the waterfront supports a variety -of uses already:
residential, commercial, governmental, industrial,'utilities, and recrea-
tional. Competition for space along the waterfront will.become even more
keen. This environment directly affects a high percentage of the residents
in the planning area; therefore, if warrants a great deal of protection so
that a maximum number of people will continue to benefit from its use.
Specifically, the municipal dock and yacht basin and the attendant
development nearby which services the fishing fleet should continue to be
protected from encroaching uses. Also, the area just northeast of the
City limits provides excellent development sites for future industrial
activity.
Protection of Cultural and Historic Resources
There are certain unique features that readily represent the character
of an area. This is particularly true in the Southport planning area. On
a drive through the community one discovers that Southport is rich in
history with its age old tree -lined streets, Fort Johnston, Whittler's
Bench along the waterfront, Frying Pan Lightship, Franklin Park, Widow's
Walk on a waterfront home, Bennett's Creek, and the view toward Baldhead
Island Lighthouse. All these features as well as moored fishing boats at
the yacht basin, display a quaint and friendly fishing village. Yet, there
remain a number of features which would improve and heighten the attractive-
ness of the community. The property between Whittler's Bench and the
municipal pier could provide the community with an ideal location for a
waterfront park. Another feature not yet capitalized on by the community
is the promotion of its historical significance. A local museum or an
• information center to house artifacts and tell the Southport story could
serve a vital community interest.
-27-

Section 3: Development Alternatives
There are several development alternatives for Southport. Since the
major land use in Southport is residential, we can describe these alterna-
tives in terms of residential density: low density with 1 to 8 dwelling
units per residential acre; medium density with 8 to 16 dwelling units per
residential acre; and high density with 16 dwelling units or more per
residential acre.
The present density in Southport is 2.6 dwelling units per residential
area. Using the above standard, this is low density which consists almost
entirely of single family dwellings in a traditional gridiron pattern.
This type of development is an easy route for municipal approval and a
moderate land value return. However, land consumption is high and cost
benefit ratio for municipal utilities is high. Annexation of sparsely
settled areas perpetuates this "leap frog" development pattern. Unless
another alternative is selected, this pattern will continue in Southport.
Another development alternative is high density development with
16 dwelling units or more per residential acre which necessitates multi-
storied structures. While marketability is often questionable, this density
provides greater land value return. It is a more economical way of pro-
viding services. Based on available information, approval is unlikely by
the municipal governing body because of local sentiment and prejudice.
The third development alternative is medium density with 8 to 16
dwelling units per residential acre. This density may be accomplished by
the use of,cluster development of townhouses. This type of development
affords lower land consumption, better cost benefit ratio.for municipal
services and positive compromise on other factors. Clustering in small
groups would result in minimum visual change to the property and market-
ability would seem high. However, this alternative would require the
implementation of at least the following citywide policies: 1) encourage
development to occur within existing city limits; 2) limit future
municipal services to only areas within the corporate limits; and 3)
revise zoning and subdivision control ordinances to permit cluster develop-
ment at higher densities.
-28-

Section 4: Objectives and Policies for Dealing with Issues
A great deal of development pressure has already been exerted upon
Southport. Consequently, the overall appearance of the community shows
signs of change and will no doubt continue to do so. The amount of change
tolerated depends upon the citizens of the community. From all available
information (surveys, interviews, public meetings), people in the Southport
planning area want a viable community, yet they do not want to lose the
assets which the community presently enjoys. Thus, it is imperative
that the City's elected and appointed officials and citizens vigorously
support the goals and objectives enumerated herein. Only when these goals
and objectives are adopted and adhered to as the City's policies for land
I
` development and future growth, will the community retain the pleasant
characteristics it has today.
In order to avoid any misunderstanding, the frequently used terms of
goal, objective and policy are defined as follows:
goaZ - a desired future condition;
objective - a task or course of action to be performed; and
poZiczy - a commitment to action to reach a goal.
In the broadest sense, the goal of Southport planning area is to
improve the social, economic, and physical environment of the community as
economically as possible. Within this broadly stated goal, several specific
goals and objectives relating to the physical development of the area can
be stated.
Goal: Provide a management system capable of preserving and managing the
natural resources in the Southport planning area.
Objectives:
• designate a Code Enforcement official to enforce the adopted
N. C. State Building Code, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning
Ordinance, and others.
• support the findings of fact and recommendations of appointed
boards; commissions and professional staff.
-29-

• prohibit development in any Area of Environmental Concern
which would have a substantial likelihood of causing pollution
of the waters of the State to the extent that such waters would
be closed to the taking of shellfish under standards set by the
Commission for Health Services pursuant to G.S. 130-169.01; or
violate any rules, regulations, or laws of the State of North
Carolina or the City of Southport and its extraterritorial
jurisdiction in which development takes place.
adopt a flood plain district as part of the Zoning Ordinance
which would protect the flood prone areas as identified by the
U.S. Corps of Engineers and HUD - Federal Insurance Administration.
• employ full-time qualified personnel in order to improve the City's
management capability.
Goal: Develop adequate and efficient public utilities and community
facilities.
Objectives:
• encourage development within the existing corporate limits and
avoid "urban sprawl.
• purchase waterfront property for a community park.
• provide service and facilities to all area within the corporate
limits before annexing new areas.
• implement the recommendations of the Community Facilities Plan,
Public Improvements Program, and Capital Improvement Budget,
Southport, N. C. 1974.
• improve fire protection service by acquiring a class 7 rating.
Goal: Provide safe, decent, and a variety of housing for all citizens.
Objectives:
• aid property owners in the demolition of dwelling units unfit
for human habitation.-
• seek, encourage and support the development of publicly assisted
• housing projects available from Federal agencies such as the
Farmer's Home Administration 502 Program, and Community Develop-
ment Act of 1974.
-30-

• establish a zoning district which would permit a mobile home
on an individual lot in a specified area.
Goal: Promote accessibility and safety in area transportation.
Objectives:
• emphasize safety and a continuous street improvement and
construction program.
• review thoroughly new residential development plans and
insure that they comply with Subdivision Regulations.
• mutually adopt a detailed thoroughfare plan with the
N.C. Department of Transportation, Division of Highways.
Goal: Preserve the existing character of a "small fishing village."
Objectives:
• establish an appearance commission to preserve the
community's aesthetic quality with power to review
architectual plans in accordance with G.S. 160A-451.
• promote the history and heritage of the community by
organizing and sponsoring an information center.
® cooperate with the county in the establishment of a Southport -
Brunswick County Historic District Commission.
-31-

ARTICLE IV - CONSTRAINTS
Section 1: Land Potential
a: Physical Limitations
An analysis of land suitability and capacity of community facilities
will aid in determining a land classification map. Moreover, it will give
a more complete picture of the Southport environment.
Two man-made hazards are the Carolina Power and Light Nuclear Generat-
ing Plant and the Military Ocean Terminal at Sunny Point. Neither facility
is located within the territorial jurisdiction of Southport and the degree
of hazard presented in the event of a national emergency or natural catas-
trophe is limited in nature due to rigid. controls imposed by Nuclear
Regulatory Commission and Department of Defense Explosive Safety Board,
respectively. However, for planning purposes it is sufficient to note
their presence and the potential (no matter how remote) hazards that exist.
There are three natural hazards applicable to the Southport planning
area: estuarine, sound and river erodible areas, flood hazard areas,
and a much publicized potential for earthquakes owing to a few geologic
characteristics recently discovered and associated with earthquakes.
Estuarine, sound and river erodible areas - Representatives of the
U. S. Soil Conservation Service has indicated that they are unaware of
any significant shoreline erosion to the Southport waterfront.9
Flood hazard areas - In regard to flood.hazards, there are two
types: "riverine" which is caused by precipitation and "coastal flooding"
caused by wind -driven water by the coincident of storm and high tides.
9Telephone conversation, October 6, 1975, with Mr. L. D. Hunnings,
Soil Conversation Service
-32-

There is no coastal hazard area comparable to the riverine "floodway"
which must be maintained free of obstructions to convey flood flows.
This is perhaps the most important difference between regulations for
coastal and riverine areas. Coastal regulations are.not designed to
preserve flood flows yet high hazard coastal areas deserve special atten-
tion. Beaches and shorelines are buffeted by high energy waves that
destroy all but the strongest structures. At some locations, special
regulations are needed to protect dunes and other naturalprotective
barriers which blunt the force of wind and waves and minimize property
damage.
Many coastal communities like Southport are constructed at the con-
fluence of a river and the sea, a location subject to both riverine and
coastal flood problems. Here regulations pertaining to both sorts of
problems are needed. Special regulations are also needed to meet inland
drainage problems at many coastal locations even without a major river
or stream. Torrential rains accompany hurricanes and coastal storms often
overtax drainage channels. Flood problems arise if seawalls, dikes, or
other engineering works constructed to prevent flooding by onrushing seas
10
block the seaward flow of water from inland drainage channels.
At present Southport is an eligible community for Federal Flood
Insurance under the emergency program. More detailed information which
would qualify the community for the regular program is.now being prepared
by HUD and Corps of Engineers and is scheduled for release in October of
1976. Preliminary information reveals that a great amount of Southport's
land area is within a 100 year flood area which tentatively coincides with
the 14 foot contour (see 100 Year Flood Boundary Map II).11 A velocity
zone which'is a result of coastal flooding is tentatively delineated along
the building line and where no buildings exist it will be at "tree level."12
10U. S. Water Resources Council, Washington, D. C. Regulations of
Flood Hazard Areas, Vol. II:parts V-VI 1971 page 122
11U. S. Department of Interior, Geological Survey Flood Prone Areas
Southport, N. C. 1973
12 Telephone conversation, Mr. Bernie Ingram, Corps of Engineers,
Wilmington, N. C. -33-

Earthquakes and nucZear powered eZectric generating pZants - The
summary presented below was written for the Southport Land Use Plan,
but it pertains to the whole southeastern Coastal Plain -of North Carolina
with little or no modification.
"Carolina Power and Light Company at the direction of the Nuclear
Regulatory Commission is carrying out an investigation to determine whether
or not there is a significant seismic risk in the Southport -area. Seismic
monitoring is taking place at several stations in Brunswick County. At
present there are no indications that should cause citizens to be concerned.
The factors that determine the type and extent of damage sustained
as the result of an earthquake include: a) distance from the epicenter
of the earthquake, b) distance from the area where an active fault, if
present, can be traced on the ground surface, c) magnitude of the earth-
quake, d) geology, soils, and surface configuration of the site, and
e) structural integrity of buildings, etc.
With respect to earthquakes those factors that are of concern in
land -use planning are: 1) location of areas where earthquake epicenters
are concentrated, 2) location of fault traces on the ground surface, and
3) geology, soils, and surface configuration of building sites. In the
case of Southport, we have no history of seismic activity which would enable
us to make any plans on the basis of 1 and 2 above. Thus, we look for
structurally poor ground.
Experience shows that intensity of shaking is greatest in places
underlain by young, soft, water -saturated sediments --not only is shaking
greater in intensity but also failure of the ground itself. Ground failure
includes liquefaction, landslides, land spreading, ground cracking, and
differential subsidence.
Given that much of the Southport area is underlain by materials like
those above what do we look for? We look for areas that are relatively less
stable than others such as filled lands --either formerly marsh or bays,
areas with an unusually high water table, and poorly drained areas. Existing
soil maps might help delineate some of these areas, but to properly examine
potential earthquake hazards a detailed hazards analysis would be necessary.
Such an analysis would include geologic mapping and an overall ground
stability analysis with an assessment of the potential for failure of the
ground at depth.as well as near the surface. It is my judg�Snt that the
expense of such an analysis is not warranted at this time."
13Memorandum from Mr. E. R. Burt, Mineral Resources Section, Department
of Natural and Economic Resources, Raleigh, N. C. February 3, 1976
-34-

Soils
The soils of an area will greatly determine the extent of present
development and the suitability for future growth. Unless an area has
proper soils, urban development that occurs will be costly and may pose
a health hazard. Soils occurring together in a characteristic and repeating
pattern constitute a general soil area or soil association. An association
consists of two or more principal soils and at -least one minor soil which
may be quite similar to or quite different from each other. Although
closely associated geographically, the soils in an association my differ
in their suitability for agricultural and non -farm use.
A General Soil Map (Map III) appears on the following page which shows
the location and extent of the four soil associations in the Southport
planning area. Such a map provides the general soils data needed to plan
the efficient use and orderly development of the community's soil.resources.
The General Soil Map is useful for: (1) those who want a general idea of
the soils, (2) those who want to compare the potential of different parts
of the planning area, or (3) those who seek the location of areas suitable
for specific types of land use. It is not designed to show accurately
the kinds of soil on an individual tract of land and is not suitable for
planning such units land.
In addition, immediately following the ,General Soil Map is a Soil.
Interpretation Chart indicating the suitability of the principal soils for
various uses. It gives their limitations for septic tank filter fields,
recreation uses, foundations for,light industry and general agriculture.
From the Soil Interpretation Chart.it can be seen that only the
Lakeland -Rimini Wagram Soil Association has generally slight limitation
for structures whose footings are in subsoil. The other three associations
have severe limitations due to high water table and flooding characteristics.
-Shallow soils are generally not present since the coastal plain area is
rock free as a result of sedimentary deposits.
-36-

Lai
Lei
Bf
Ma,
)RI
.INA

SOIL INTERPRETATIONS CHART
SOUTHPORT, N. C.
X
Dwellings with
Limitations For
of
Septic Tank
Recreation
Suitability
For
Soil Associations
Assoc.
Sewerage System
Filter Fields
Camp Sit s
Intensive
Pi Picnic Ar a Play Areas
Paths &
Trails
Light l
dustry
2
General
1 LAKEIAND-RIMINI WAGRAM
In
Roads & Streets
Agriculture
Wood
Lakeland
60
Slight
Slight- Sever �p3
Severe ST
Severe ST Severe ST
Severe
ST
Moderate BS
Slight
Fair -Poor.
Poor
Rimini
20
Slight
Severe-Perc
Severe ST
Severe ST Severe ST
Severe
ST
Slight
Slight
Poor
Poor
Wagram
10
.. Slight
Slight
Moderate ST
Moderate ST Severe ST
Severe
ST
Slight
Slight
Fair -Good
Fair
4. LEON-RUTLECE-PACTOLUS
Leon
55
Severe Wr
Severe Wr
Severe Wr
Severe WT Severe WT
Severe
ST
Severe WT
Severe WT
Poor
Fair
Rutlege
20
Severe Wr F1
Severe WT F1
Severe WT F1
Severe Wr F1 Severe WT F1
Severe Wr F1
Severe WT FL
Severe Wr FL
Poor
Fair -Good
Pactolus
15 Moderate Severe Wr
Moderate Severe WT Moderate Severe Wr
Moderate Wr F1 Moderate Severe Wr Moderate WT FL
Severe Wr, Moderate Severe Wr
Fair
Fair
7. BIBB-LUMBEE-JOHNSTON
Bibb 40 Severe Wr F1
Severe Wr F1
Severe WT FL
Severe WT Fl
Severe WT F1
Severe Wr Fl Severe Wr FL Severe Wr FL Poor Good
Lumbee 20 Severe Wr F1
Severe Wr F1
Severe Wr Traf
Severe WT Traf
Severe Wr Traf
Severe WT F1 Severe Wr F1 Severe Wr F1 Fair -Good Good
Johnston 20 Severe Wr Fl
Severe Wr Fl
Severe Wr F1
Severe WT Fl
Severe Wr FL
Severe WT F1 Severe WT F1 Severe Wr FL Poor Good
8. CAPERS 100 Severe WT FL
Severe Wf F1
Severe WT F1
Severe WT F1
Severe Wr F1 Severe
FL TSC Severe F1 TSC Severe Fl TSC Poor Poor
1 Structures whose footings are in subsoil
Abbreviations for Limiting Factors:
Definitions of Soils Limitations
2 Refers to roads and streets that have
subsoils for base
BS -
Bearing Strength
None to
Soils have properties favorable for the rated use. Limita-
FL -
Flood Hazard
Slight
tions are so minor that they can be easily overcome. Good
3 Possible contamination of shallow water
Wr -
Traf
Water Table
- Trafficability
performance and low maintenance can be expected from these
supply
Pere
— Percolation Rate
soils.
TSC
- Traffic Supporting
Capacity
Moderate
Soils have properties moderately favorable for the rated
ST -
Surface Texture
use. Limitation can be overcome or modified with
planning, design, or special maintenance.
Severe
Soils have one or more properties unfavorable for the
SOURCE: SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICE, BRUNSWICK
COUNTY
rated use. Limitations are difficult and costly to modify
AN APPRAISAL OF POTENTIAL FOR OUTDOOR
or overcome, requiring major soil reclamation, special
RECREATION DEVELOPMENT, AUGUST 1973
design or intense maintenance.

With the general exception of the Lakeland-Rimini-Wagram Soil
Association, the soils range in drainage capability from somewhat poorly
drained to very -poorly drained soils. The Lakeland-Rimini-Wagram Soil
Association generally is well drained.14 From the Soils Interpretation
Chart generally all the soils in the Southport planning area are unsuitable
for septic tank filter fields. However, there are pockets of soils such
as the Wagram Soil Group within the Lakeland-Rimini-Wagram Associations
which contain favorable soils. Severe limitations for almost all community
development type uses are found in the Leon-Rutlege-Pactolus and Capers
Soil Association. Thus, the soils in the Southport area are generally
poor outside the Lakeland-Rimini-Wagram Soil Association. Fortunately,
as one can see from the General Soil Map, most of the total land area is
within the Lakeland-Rimini-Wagram Association.15
Hydrogeology16
An understanding of the hydrogeology of the area is the first step
toward evaluating the availability, occurrence, and chemical quality of
the groundwater in the planning area. The void spaces between the rock
materials that underlie Southport constitute the reservoir in which the
water is stored and the conduits through which the water moves. While
a thorough examination of the geology and groundwater has not been completed
at this time, there are pertinent facts that have been identified by the
Regional Hydrologist with the North Carolina Department of Natural and
Economic Resources.
"Although located in the Lower Cape Fear River Basin, Southport is
not in a designated public water supply watershed since surface waters do
14Phillips, Joseph A. and others Soil Associations of the Coastal Area
Management Area North Carolina State University June, 1975.
15Soil Conservation Service, An Appraisal of Potential for Outdoor
Recreation Development Brunswick County.
16Memorandum from Mr. Rick Shiver, Regional.Hydrologist, N. C. Depart-
ment of Natural and Economic Resources, Wilmington September 1975.
-39-

not supply the City; Class A2 surface waters are unavailable for use and
hence groundwater resources supply all water needs.
Hydrogeologically, Southport is complex. A post-miocene aquifer
exists between land surface and approximately 40 feet below land surface;
this aquifer consists of sand and contains potable water under water table
conditions. Below the post-miocene is the tertiary system aquifer, the
primary source of Southport's water supply. Porous and permeable '
limestone provides the geologic framework in which excellent quality ground-
water is stored under artesian or near artesian conditions. The tertiary
system aquifer is approximately 140 feet thick and extends from 40 feet below
land surface and 200 feet below land surface. Probably, the post-miocene
aquifer and the tertiary system aquifer are hydraulically connected.
Between 200 feet below land surface and 1550 feet below land surface
is the upper, middle, and low cretaceous system aquifer. Brackish ground-
water is contained within unconsolidated sands under artesian and flowing
artesian conditions. Basement hard rock is encountered at 1550 feet below
land surface.
Groundwater recharge to the post-miocene aquifer by direct infiltra-
tion of rainfall is active in Southport. As the post-miocene aquifer is
hydraulically connected to the tertiary system aquifer, recharge to the
post-miocene aquifer results in effective recharge to the tertiary system
aquifer.
Groundwater from the post-miocene aquifer is of potable quality and
exists in significant quantity. Groundwater from the tertiary system
aquifer is of excellent potable quality and is available in large quantities.
However, it is suspected that the quality and quantity of groundwater
from both aquifers is in jeopardy. It is suspected (but not yet substantiated)
that the Brunswick Steam Electric Plant (CP&L) canal, the inland waterway,
and the dredged Cape Fear River are man-made activities which have allowed
brackish water to enter the post-miocene aquifer and tertiary system aquifer.
Therefore, these suspected sources are responsible for initiating/
accentuating a salt water encroachment problem. To preclude further
quantity and quality problems, man-made activities which would have detri-
mental effects on the aquifers should be avoided.
Southport is served by three wells which tap the tertiary system
aquifer. The wells are nearly 175 feet in total depth and collectively
yield 700 GPM. It is suspected that these wells are now beginning to
exhibit a quality problem related to salt water encroachment; and, hence',
deserve close quality monitoring. To date, quantity of water is not a
problem and with future reasonable use should not present a problem.
In summary, the aquifers of significance are the post-miocene and
tertiary system aquifer. Past man-made activities are suspected to have
resulted in quality problems in'both aquifers. It is vital that future
activities avoid additional quality impairment. Quantity of groundwater
is not now a problem and future quantity problems are not anticipated,
-40-

assuming reasonable use. Southport's impending use of central supplies
precludes a lengthy discussion on future water planning."
b• Fragile Areas
Coastal Wetlands
Coastal wetlands are defined as "any salt marsh or other marsh subject
to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including wind tides (whether
or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through natural or artifi-
cial watercourses), provided this shall not include hurricane or tropical
storm tides.17 (See Map IV, Fragile Areas.) Coastal wetlands may be
considered in two categories: low tidal marshland serves as a critical
component in the coastal ecosystem. The marsh is the basis for the high
net yield system of the estuary through the production of organ detritus
(partially decomposed plant material) which is the prime input source for
the food chain of the entire estuarine system. In addition, the roots and
rhizomes of the Spartina alterniflora serve as waterfowl food and the
stems as wildlife nesting material. Low tidal marsh also serves as the
first line of defense in retarding shoreline erosion. Other coastal
marshland contributes to the detritus supply and provides quality wildlife
and waterfowl habitat depending on the biological and physical conditions
of the marsh.18,
Most of the wetlands in Brunswick County are of the bog type and
support good habitat for wildlife. The marsh near Southport provides good
clapper rail shooting but public hunting opportunities for waterfowl in
general are poor. Most waterfowl hunting is done on private property
along the Cape Fear River. Except for a few marsh areas along the Cape
Fear River and the coast and some swamp in the Waccamaw and Cape Fear
River basins, the development potential for waterfowl in the county is
• 17Soil Conservation Service An Appraisal of Potentials for Outdoor
Recreational Development.
18Coastal Resources Commission, "State Guidelines for Local Planning ."
January 27,.1975 page 51.
-41-

poor.19
Protection of wetland areas requires the proper control of man's
activities to prevent disturbing significantly the terrain and impairing
the quality of the wetland area. Alteration in quantity or quality
of the.natural flow of water, which nourishes the ecosystem, should be
minimized.
Estuarine Waters
Estuarine waters are defined in G.S. 113-229 (n) (2) as, "all the
water of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundary of North Carolina and
all the waters of the sounds, rivers, and tributaries thereto seaward
of the dividing line between coastal fishing waters and inland fishing
waters, as set forth in an agreement adopted by the Wildlife Resources
Commission and the Department of Conservation and Development filed with
the Secretary of State entitled "Boundary Lines, North Carolina Commercial
Fishing - Inland Fishing Waters, revised March 1, 1965."
Estuaries are among the most productive natural environments of
North Carolina. They not only support valuable commercial and sports
fisheries, but are also utilized for commercial navigation, recreation,
and aesthetic purposes. Species dependent upon estuaries such as menhaden,
shrimp, flounder, oysters and crabs make up over 90% of the total value
of North Carolina's commercial catch. These species must spend all or
some part of their life cycle in the estuary. The high level of commercial
and sport fisheries and the aesthetic appeal of coastal North Carolina is
dependent upon the protection and sustained quality of our estaurine areas.20
Areas Containing Unique Geological Formations
These are places that contain surface or near surface formations that
are either themselves unique or are especially unusual or notable examples
of geologic formations or processes in the coastal area. These formations
• 19Wilson, Kenneth A. North Carolina Wetlands, Their Distribution and
Management, Wildlife Resources Commission, Raleigh April, 1962 page 43.
20Coastal Resources Commission, "State Guidelines for Local Planning ."
January 27,1975 page 54.
-42-

are tentatively identified as "Carolina Bays" and are a much discussed
feature of the Coastal Plain.
The large area north of the new Southport Primary School displays
characteristics of the Carolina Bay formation while the small ones to the
south are somewhat lacking in characteristics associated with Carolina
Bays. Throughout Brunswick County there are depressions which resemble
Carolina Bays but lack some of the essential characteristics.21
Carolina Bays are shallow elliptical depressions, some occupied by
lakes and there is disagreement as to their origin --meteorite scars or
solution depression.
Coastal wetlands, estuarine waters and unique geological formations
are shown on Map V.
Historic Sites
Of the historic sites listed on pages 45 and 46, only Fort Johnston
is recognized in the National Register of Historic Places. All the other
sites should be'considered as potential historic sites in the future. Sites
are located on Map VI, Potential Historic Sites.
Public Trust Areas
Areas such as waterways and lands under or flowed by tidal waters or
navigable waters, to which the public may have rights of access or public
trust rights and areas which the State of North Carolina may be authorized
to preserve, conserve, or protect under Article XIV, Section 5, of the
North Carolina Constitution.
21
Maynard Owens, Soil Conservation Service Telephone conversation
October 9, 1975.
-43-

Other Fragile Areas
The Southport planning area contains other.fragile areas such as
wooded swamps and prime wildlife habitats particularly along Dutchman
• Creek and Price's Creek. One notable scenic area is along the Cape
Fear River west bank.
c: Areas with Resource Potential
Areas with resource potential -include productive and unique agricultural
lands; potentially valuable mineral sites; publicly owned forests, parks,
fish and.game lands, and other nonintensive outdoor recreation lands; and.
privately owned wildlife sanctuaries.
There are no known areas of resource potential in the Southport
planning area.
-44-

POTENTIAL HISTORIC SITES
1. Arrington House (architecture)
location - Atlantic Avenue and Bay Street
description - unknown date - considered haunted
present use - private residence
2. Fort Johnston - The Garrison (architecture, military) Recognized Site
location - Bay Street
description - The Garrison housed his majesty's troops from
1745-1764; burned by Whigs 1775, rebuilt in 1794-1809
present use - residence of commanding officer of Sunny Point
3. St. Philli s Episcopal Church (architecture, religion)
location - Courthouse Square
description - first established in Brunswick Town in 1754; present
structure was erected in 1851; original furnishings are in evidence
4. Old Southport Cemetery
location - Moore Street
description - dates from 1760
present use - Southport landmark
5. Frvinq Pan Liqhtshi
location - foot of Howe Street
description - ship guarded Fry Pan Shoals; built in 1929, replaced
in 1964 by light tower, given to Southport by United States Coast
Guard
:present use - navigational museum
6. Brunswick County Courthouse
location - Courthouse Square on Moore Street
description - third location but not.the last, erected in 1842
7. Whittler's Bench
ocation - foot of Howe Street
description - originally a Lombardy Poplar and two ancient gnarled
cedars formed popular shady spot for sailors and townspeople to
congregate.
8. Old Thompson House
location - Bay Street
description - example of widow's watch used to scan horizon for
returning ships or planning voyages; once owned by Captain Thomas.
M. Thompson, who collected treasures from over the world; he was
also famous Civil War blockage runner
present use - private residence
-45-

9. Franklin Square "The Grove"
location - Howe Street
description - land bequeathed to town by Governor Benjamin Smith
for educational, fraternal, religious, and recreational purposes;
contains an old hand water pump
9. City
description - stately colonial structure looks out upon Franklin
Square; built in 1904 by Masonic Lodge; it has functioned as a
school, American Legion Hut, community center and now seat of
Town Government
9. "Four Sisters"
description - a rare arrangement of canopying giant live oaks
hundreds of years old, directly behind City Hall
10. Prices Creek Liqhthouse
location - 2 miles north of Southport on Cape Fear River
description - brick ruins largely intact built in 1851 as a range
light, taken over by South in 1861 used as telegraph signal
station; after Civil War abandoned; Pfizer, Inc. plans to
restore
11. Price -Davis Family Cemetery
location - West Street behind First Apostolic Church
description - secluded old burying ground
12. Indian Trail Tree - Keziah Park
ration - corner of Moore and Lord Streets
description - ancient and gnarled live oak is estimated to be
over 800 years old; Believed that Indians bent this tree marking
route. to fishing grounds reported in Ripley's Believe It or Not;
Named in honor of W. B. Keziah known as "Mr. Chamber of Commerce"
13. Old Southport Hospital
baton - Atlantic Avenue and West Street
description - moved from North Bay Street sometime after Civil
War;'used as first real hospital reported to be the oldest
remaining building in Southport prior to 1790's
present use - private residence
14. Bonnet's Creek
location - East Moore Street
description - Stede Bonnet, supposedly "Gentleman Pirate"
hid his vessel The Royal James, here; Bonnet's lady love lived
in Southport; she reportedly buried her diary here; this con-
troversial pirate was captured November 8, 1718 by Colonel
William Rhett, and died on the gallows with a handful of followers
.in Charleston, South Carolina
Source: North Carolina Division of Archives and History Count
Historic Site Inventory; Brunswick County Historic Society; The
Bald Head.Island Gazette, N. A. Page; "Southport Scenic Driving
Town" 1975
-46-

®RT
>LINA
MMA

Section 2: Capacity of Community Facilities
Water Supply
Southport is served by three wells which tap the Tertiary System
Aquifer. The wells are nearly 175 feet in total depth and collectively
• yield 700 gallons per minute. Conceivably this system could provide
504,000 gallons per day (12-hour demand). From January 1974 to July 1974,
the average water used was approximately 218,206 gallons per day. Thus,
the water system is presently operating at 43 percent capacity. However,
there are many other factors to consider before determining excess
capacity. Nevertheless, 25 percent more of capacity could be utilized and
still provide a very reasonable safety factor.
. For a discussion of water quality and future planning needs, see the
section entitled "Hydrogeology" in this report. For an identification of
water service area including expansion consult the Communit Facilities
Plan22 and Proposed Water and Sewer System Extension.23
Sewer System
Southport's wastewater treatment plant has a designed capacity of
300,000 gallons per day. The average monthly flow was 130,000 gallons per
day in August, 1974. It is anticipated that the proposed sewer extension
will generate an additional 146,000 gallons per day, thus, producing a
total of 276,000 gallons per day.24 Estimated monthly flow is 175 to 200
thousand gallons per day in September, 1975, with construction roughly
60 percent complete.25 Therefore, once sewer extension is complete the
22Department of Natural and Economic Resources, Division of Community
Assistance Community Facilities Plan, Southport, N. C. March 1974
page 8.
23Henry von Oesen and Associates Proposed Water and Sewer System
Extension, Southport, N. C. 1972.
24F. Tyndall Lewis, Regional Engineer in a memorandum to Engineering
Branch, Env. Mgt. Div., approving sewer line construction August 2, 1974.
25Southeastern Field Office, Environmental Management Division, Wilmington,
N. C.
-49-

wastewater treatment plant will be operating at approximately 92 percent
capacity.
For a discussion of future planning needs, and identification of
sewer service area including expansion consult the Community Facilities Plan
and Proposed Water and Sewer System Extension.26
Thoroughfares
According to the Highway Capacity Manual,27 the practical capacity for
two lanes plus parking for two way traffic is 5,700-8,200 vehicles per day.
Capacity is defined as the maximum number of vehicles which has a reasonable
expectation of passing over a given section of a lane or a roadway in both
directions during a given time period under prevailing roadway and traffic
conditions. Based on this standard, the only thoroughfare in the Southport
planning area which warrants improvement is North Howe Street at the city
limits. This street is on the State Highway System (G. S. 136 - Article 3A)
and in 1974 had an average daily traffic count of 8850 vehicles per day.
However, there are other factors (i. e., design, cost, traffic generators,
accident frequency,origin-destination studies, etc.) besides capacity
analysis which must be considered before alterations are made.
26Department of Natural and Economic Resources Community Facilities Plan
page 10 / Henry von Oesen, Proposed Water and Sewer System Extension.
27Highway Research Board, Highway Capacity Manual - Special Report 87 1965.
-50-

Educational Facilities
There are three educational facilities administered by the Brunswick
County Board of Education which serve the Southport planning area. The City
of Southport actually has little or no authority with regard to school poli-
cies. The three facilities are:
Southport Primary K-4
Design capacity: 600 pupils
1974-75 enrollment (last day): 487
Pupil/Teacher ratio: 21:1
Future plans: K-5 grade was the addition of 8 classrooms
Southport Middle School 5-8
Design capacity: 500 pupils
1974-75 enrollment (last day): 493
Pupil/Teacher ratio: 27:1
.Future plans:. 6-8 grade with the construction of a new
Junior school
-South Brunswick High School 9-12 (located in Boiling Springs
Design Capacity: 750 pupils Lake, N. C.)
�1974-75 enrollment (last day): 636
Pupil/Teacher ratio: 28:1
Future plans: construction of additional shop facilities.
-51-

ARTICLE V - ESTIMATED DEMAND
Section 1: Population and Economy
In order to better understand population trends, historic population
and current estimates are summarized below. Population change is the
result of birth, deaths and migration. Migration is the most difficult
variable to predict because it is subject to so many outside factors.
Under the historic population count we see that the City of Southport's
percent increase from 1930 to 1970 has been less than either Smithville
Township or Brunswick County. It should also be noted that Southport from
1930 to 1970 has represented an average 9.8 percent of the county's total
population.
The two basic sources or regional population projections are the
OBERs Series E projections, which uses projected economic growth to account
for the regional distribution of population,.and North Carolina Population
Projection Model; which is based upon births, deaths, and observed trends
(1970-73) in migration. The OBERs Series E'data are disaggregated from' -
larger multicounty Bureau of Economic Analysis economic areas. The 1973
adjusted trend projections are adjustments of the previous trend projections
based on a comparison of observed migration from 1970-73 with predicted
migration.
Due to Southport's small size and lack of a data base, it is more
accurate to discuss population changes at the county level. Brunswick
County has grown very rapidly since 1970 because of several large construc-
tion jobs around;Southport. The beach areas have contributed to this
• growth also. Continuation of this growth, without further economic develop-
ment, is doubtful because construction workers are very mobile.and will

probably move on when the projects are completed. Although outmigration
will occur, it is not likely to continue to 1980 because the Wilmington SMSA
which includes Brunswick County is growing. It is likely that attendant
development resulting from major projects.will cause the population in
Southport and Brunswick County to level off slightly higher in 1980 than'
at present. Projecting population beyond a ten year period is at best
guesswork. However should the current trends continue, Southport may have
10,000 persons by 2025.
The economic boom that has engulfed Southport and Brunswick County has
begun to level off. According to two economic indicators such as personal
income and employment characteristics Brunswick County has improved but
still lags behind the state in most cases. Since November 1974, the
unemployment rate„has continued to increase:. January 1975 - 12.1%;
May 1975 - 12.7%; and August 1975 - 14.8%.28 Projecting future economic
conditions is a.most difficult task, since many factors are dependent upon
the national economy and are beyond the control of the local decision makers.
28North Carolina Employment Security Commission
-53-

0.
HISTORIC POPULATION
Ave. Percent of
County 1930-70
1930
1940
Percent Change
1930-40
1950
Percent.Change
1940-50
1960.
Percent Change
1950-60
1970
Percent Change
1960-70
Percent Chang
1930-70
Southport*
9.8
1,760
1,760
0
1,748
-.7
2,034
16.3
2,220
9.1
26.1
Smithville Twp.
17.0
2,912
2,936
.8
2,873
-2
3,355
16.7
4,346
29.5
49.2
Brunswick Co.
15,818
17,125
8
19,238
12.3
20,278
5.4
24,223
19.4
41.4
Source: U.S. Dept. of Commerce 1950, 1960, 1970 U.S. Census of Population
AVERAGE PERMANENT RESIDENT POPULATION
19731 19741 1975
Southport* 2,730 2,900 NIA
3
Brunswick County 29,800 31,900 35,621
* City Only
1 As of July 1 according to N.C. Dept. of Administration, OSP
2 Not available because of small data base
3 As of January 1 according to Brunswick County Planning Dept.

POPULATION
PROJECTION
1980
1985
1990
2000
Southport*
OBER Series E
39038
3,445
3,851
4,508
1973 Adjusted Trend
3,136
3,641
4;145
5,341
Brunswick County
i
LI
;" OBER Series E
31,000
35,150.
39,300.
46,000
1973 Adjusted Trend
32,000
37,150
42,300
54,600
Brunswick Co. Planning Dept.
41,914
52,583
61,199
83,768
* City only
Source: U.S. Dept. of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis
N.C. Dept. of Administration, OSP
Brunswick County Planning Dept.

However, there are some key economic indicators which have been
projected by the U. S. Dept. of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis
by regions.29 In any event there are assumptions made, which if proved
• erroneous, could render the outcome totally invalid. If we apply the
1970 percent of county population of total regional population to
regional employment, we arrive at a county projected employment.
Year 1980 1990 2000
Total Employment 9,249 11,787 13,324
If we apply the population projections discussed earlier to the projected
Total County personal
income, we arrive
at projected
per capita personal
income for Brunswick
County:
Year
1980
1990
2000
Population
32,000
.39,300
46,000
Total County Personal
Income
$92,158
$142,438
$222,568
Per Capita Personal Income
$2,880
$3,624
$4,838
Per capita personal income is all money earned divided by every man, woman,
and child. Naturally, this is below the average family or household income.
Unfortunately, these projections are based on data which has occurred since
1970. We have every reason to believe that the local economy is in better
shape than indicated by these two factors.
Section 2: Future Land Use Needs
The existing patterns of development were analyzed under the section
entitled "Existing Land Use" in this report. However, a brief summary of
those findings and a comparison to the April 1968, Land Use Analysis where
9N. C. Dept. of Administration, Office of State Budget, Statistical Abstract,
page 207 . 1973
-56-

appropriate will be beneficial to understanding future land needs.
Land'Use
Within Corporate
Limits
Approximate
Category
1974•Acreage 1968'Acreage
1.
Residential
360.0
200
2.
Commercial
22.4
11
3.
Industrial
1.6
2
4.
Transportation, Communication
and Utilities
186.00
125
5.
Government & Institutional
69.5
45
6.
Cultural, Entertainment &
Recreational
3.2
2
Subtotal Developed
642.7
387
7.
Agriculture* & Forestland
235.5
8.
Wetlands
244.0
9.
Undeveloped
120.0
Total
1242.2
Comparisons for the last three categories are inappropriate because of
dissimilar categories and differences in interpretations. Since residential
land use is the largest category, it deserves special review. As one can
readily see this land use increased 80 percent from 1968 to 1974. Reasons
for this astounding increase have already been identified. Yet it is
probable that this increase will not continue. There are several methods
for forecasting future acreage requirements for new residential construction,
all of which have basic assumptions but normally employ the family or
*Included in forestland due to photo data
Sources: 1974 Land Use Information:
Soil Conservation Service aerial photos (2/4/72)
N. C. Dept. of Natural and Economic Resources, Division
of Community Assistance Windshield Survey (12/74)
dwelling units 779
N. C. DOT aerial photos (12/18/74)
1968 Land Use Information:
N. C. Dept. of Natural and Economic Resources, Division
of Community Assistance -Land Use Analysis, Southport,
N. C. 1968 page 62
-57-

household as the key element.30 For the City of Southport, the number of
new dwelling units needed in 1985 is 161.3 (1974-1985 population increase
of 600 persons divided by 3.72 persons per dwelling unit). New dwelling
units needed is converted to an acreage requirement of 74.2 acres
(new dwelling units divided by 2.16 dwelling units per residential acre in
1970. This method involves assumptions as to a constant household size,
stable vacancy rate and no losses in existing stock of dwelling units from
demolition, fire or other catastrophes. Because of this and the fact that
the method does not provide flexibility for the location of additional
employment generators, a safety factor of 25 percent is added to produce
a total residential acreage need in 1985 of 92.8 acres.
Due to a lack of pertinent data and a. small amount of acres in the
other land use categories, acreage requirements are determined below by
dividing projected population growth (600 persons) by persons per acre in
1974.
30Chapin, F. Stuart Urban Land Use Planning, University of Illinois
Press Urbana 1965 page 423
ME

LAND USE NEEDS
.Within
Corporate Limits
Approximate
Category
1974 Acreage
Persons per acre
1.
Residential
360.0
8.1
2.
Commercial
22.4
I.29.5
3.
Industrial
1.6
181.3
4.
Transportation,, Communication
and Utilities
186.0
15.6
5.
Government & Institutional
69.5
41.1
6.
Cultural, Entertainment &
Recreational
3.2
906.3
Subtotal Developed
642.7
4.3
7.
Agriculture* & Forestland
235.5
8.
Wetlands
244.0
9.
Undeveloped
120.0
Total
1242.2
2.3
1985 Acreage
Requirement*'*
74.1
4.6
3.3
38.4
14.3
.6
Total 135.3'
plus 25% safety
Factor = Total 169.0
* Combined with forestland due to photo date
** Does not include safety factor
Source: Land Use Information:
Soil Conservation Service aerial photos (2/4/72)
N. C. Dept. of Natural and Economic Resources, Division
of Community Assistance Windshield Survey (12/74)
N. C. DOT aerial photos (12/18/74)
i
Total acres required to accommodate development in 1985 is 135.3 acres.
If a safety factor of 25 percent.is added then, the total acres needed to
accommodate all land uses resulting from new growth in 1985 is 169.1 acres.
-59-

Section 3: Community Facilities Demand
TEN-YEAR PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM FOR SOUTHPORT*
The Public Improvements.Program for the City of Southport includes only
the pablic improvements for which the city is directly responsible and which
must be provided for in the City's Capital Improvements Budget.
PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS PROJECTS FOR FISCAL 1974-1979
Improvement Items Justification
1. Remodel present city hall to
provide adequate office space and
paint the exterior of the building.
2. Complete extensions of the
water distribution system as
recommended by the water and sewer
system planning report..
3. Complete extensions of the sewer
system and increase the capacity of
the sewage treatment plant.
1. This would provide adequate
office space for the town adminis-
trative functions without the need to
expand the existing structure. "
2. This would provide an adequate
water system to the city for the
next twenty years. It would also
serve the new junior high school
and the small boat harbor.
3. This would provide an adequate
sewage system meeting federal and
state requirements for the projected
growth of the community in the..next
twenty years.
4. Acquire sufficient land for 4. As a recreational and resort
a civic center complex adjacent to the area, the city is in need of a
new junior high school site. facility to house large groups and
to provide recreational and cultural
activities. :
5. Purchase the land adjacent to the
fishing pier to provide a picnic and
open space area on the"waterfront.
6. Purchase a new utility truck for
the volunteer fire department and the
necessary safety equipment needed.
7. Replace street, grater, and
sewer department equipment on a
staggered time basis at five year
intervals.
5. This would complete the second
phase of this federally funded
program. Federal monies have already
been appropriated for this acquisition.
6. This is done to insure dependable,
safe, and low maintenance transportation.
7. This heavy equipment should be
replaced on a regular basis to insure
low maintenance and high performance.
* N.C. Department of Natural and Economic Resources, Division of Community Assistance
Community Facilities Plan Southport, N. C. Narch, 1974.
-- -60-

Improvement Items
8. Purchase a new bucket truck for
the electrical department.
9.. Purchase new patrol vehicles for
-the Police Department every two years.
Justification
8. This vehicle is now ten years
old. To insure dependable service
and low maintenance, it should be
replaced every five years.
9. This is done to insure dependable,
safe and low maintenance transportation.
Additionally, this would be a predicable
and easily planned for expense.
PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT FOR FISCAL 1979-1984
Improvement Items
1. Acquire sufficient land at the
end of Willis Drive to develop a
riverside park.
2. Purchase new patrol vehicles
at a two year interval.
Justification
1. This site would protect a small
portion of the riverfront area and
provide recreational facilities to
the residents of Southport and to
the many tourist that visit the area.
2. Same as #9 under Fiscal Years
1974-1979.
3., Purchase new street, water and 3. Same as #7 under Fiscal Years
sewer department equipment on a staggered 1974-1979.
basis at five year intervals.
4. Pave the parking area of the town 4. This is needed for the overall
garage and provide sufficient buffers to protection of the stored vehicles
shield the adjoining areas. and to shield the adjacent property
from the activities and storage
facilities of the area.
5. Pave the existing:parking facili-
ties adjacent to City Hall and mark off
spaces.:
6. Construct a new fire station
with room for expansion and proper
maintenance of equipment.
7. Purchase foam equipment
for the"Fire Department.
5. This would provide an adequate.
parking area and would prevent
haphazard parking arrangements.
6. The present fire station has no
room for expansion or for additional
equipment and the present facilities
are inadequate for maintenance of
equipment and training.
7. This would provide better fire
protection to the city and expand
their present service.

Table 1
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM FISCAL YEAR 1974-1975 THROUGH FISCAL YEAR 1978-1979
General
Departments and Pro ects
Total Cost
Assistance Assistance
Revenue
Bonds SharingRevenue
Current
1974-1975
1975-1976 1976-1977 1977-1978 1978-197'
Fire Department
10 H.P. Fire Siren
$
3,000
$. 1,600 $
$
1,600
$ 3,300
1,000 ft. of Double Jacket
$
$ 1,900
2 1/2 inch fire hose
$
1,900
$
2,500
00
$
Rescue Equipment
$
2,500
$
,,500
4,200
$
4,200
1 Utility Truck
$
4,200
Police Department
7 new automobiles
normal replacement
$
24,500
$
24,500
$ 3,500
$
7,500 $" 3,500 $ 7,000 $ 3,50
i City Administration
rn
N City Hall Remodeling
$
10,000
$10,000
$ 5,000
$
5,000
Water System
Water.Line Extension
$
197,000
$132,000
$ 65,000
$197,000
Sewer System
Extension of Lines and
Upgrading Treatment
Plant
$
646,000
$276,000
$370,000
$646,000

Table 1 Cont'd.
CAPITAL"'IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM FISCAL YEAR 1974-1975 THROUGH FISCAL YEAR 1978-1979
General
Federal State Revenue Current
Departments and Projects Total Cost Assistance Assistance Bonds Sharing_Revenue 1974-1975 1975-1976 1976-1977 1977-1978 1978-1979
Sanitation Department
1 new Packer $ 12,000 $ 12,000 $12,000
Electric Department
1 Pickup Truck
1 Bucket Truck
Streets Department
2 2-ton Trucks
i l 1/2-ton Pickup Truck
rn 1 3/4-ton Pickup Truck
W 1 Street Sweeper
$ 4,200
$ 18,500
$ 4,200 $ 4,200
$ 18,500 $ 18,500
$ 12,200
$
12,200 $ 6,100 $ 6,100
$ 4,200
$
4,200 $ 4,200 $
$ 7,000
$
7,000 $ 7,000
$ 15,000
$
15,000 $ 15,000
Recreation
Water Front Park Land ,
$ 7,500 $10,000 $ 10,000
Acquisition $ 27,500 $ 3.750 $23,750
$ 10,000
Civic Center Complex $ 240,000 $200,000 $40,000 $40,000 $111,500 $111,500
Total $1,230,000 $613,350 $40,000 $435,000 $33,750 $107,000 $885,400 $84,300 $144,200 $135,500 $ 3,500

Furthermore, while it is not considered a capital improvement item,
the city will have to consider the employment of a full time fireman due.
to projected growth. This will also permit the city to gain a lower class
fire rating (#7) which will bring about a reduction in fire insurance
rates.
-64-

ARTICLE VI - PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
Prior to 1974, local land use plans were purely advisory in nature.
Local governments often adopted comprehensive plans and then proceded to
ignore them by zoning land and building facilities in a manner inconsistent,
with the plan. Under the Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 the develop-
ment of land use plans is just the initial phase of the coastal area manage-
ment program, for this is a continuing process calling for periodic review
(at least once after,five years) and revision to keep the plan current,
and for management of other governmental actions in a manner consistent
with the plans.
The law requires each town desiring to develop its own implementation
and enforcement plan to identify a "designated local official" to review,
process and issue permits in Areas of Environmental Concern.
While regulations called for in the act relate only to permit authority
affecting designated Areas of Environmental Concern, the permits need to,be
coordinated with both the local land use plan and other existing regulations.
The really crucial part of the program will be to see if the local plans
can be effectively used to guide government actions --by local, state and
federal agencies --within the local jurisdiction.
Section 1: Intergovernmental Coordination
In Southport there are two local units of .government which provide
services to the city and have authority to levy taxes. These two units are:
the City of Southport and the County of Brunswick. Historically, counties
have been responsible for software services (i. e., health, education and
welfare) while municipalities were responsible for hardware services
(i. e., water, sewer, streets and sanitation). However with a changing
-65-

demographic picture, both cities and counties have initiated services
of both types. Coordination of services between Southport and Brunswick.
County are very few. However, agreements in several areas should be
explored. Possible areas for joint services include recreation, wastewater
treatment, historic district commission, water service, and housing rehabili-
tation. The degree to which any of these service agreements can be achieved
will be determined by the cost involved. The cost in turn can be held to
a minimum by land use control. Only Southport has authority to regulate
the use of land outside AECs and within its jurisdiction.
The City of Southport shall continue to coordinate all plans for its
development with those of other governmental agencies.
Coordination in the development of the Land Use Plan between Brunswick
County and Southport has been achieved through informal meetings by planning
staff and by citizens through attendance at County Advisory Committee meetings.
Section 2: Land Classification System
The North Carolina Land Classification System contains five cl.asses
of land:
a. Developed --Lands where existing population density is moderate
to high and where there are a variety of land uses which have
the necessary public services.
b. Transition --Lands where local government plans to accommodate
moderate to high density development during the following ten
year period and where necessary public services will be provided
to accommodate that growth.
c. Community --Lands where low density development is grouped in
existing settlements or will occur in such settlements during
the following ten year period and which will not require
• extensive public services now or in the future.

d. Rural --Lands whose highest use is for agriculture, forestry,
mining, water supply, etc., based on their natural resources
potential. Also, lands for future needs not currently recog-
nized.
. e. Conservation --Fragile, hazard and other lands necessary to maintain
a healthy natural environment and necessary to provide for the
public health, safety or welfare.
These five classes provide a framework to be used by the City to identify
the general use of all lands within the corporate limits. Such a system
presents an opportunity for Southport to provide for its needs as well as
to consider those of the whole state. Also, it is a statement of policy
on where and to what density we want growth to occur, and where we want
to conserve the city's natural resources by guiding growth.
Applying this system to Southport as shown on the accompanying map,
land falls into four categories: Conservation, Developed, Transition, and
Rural. Conservation represents all land identified as AECs and where soil
conditions will not support development. Developed land is the area within
city limits which presently have the necessary public services.
Since an objective as stated in the section "Objectives and Policies
for Dealing with Issues" is to encourage development within the existing
corporate limits and avoid urban sprawl, then it is reasonable to hope that
a percentage of the new growth occur in' the Developed Land.Class (where
water and sewer service is, and the density is 4.5 persons per acre using
just the developed acres). How much should occur and would occur is
debatable. Undeveloped land within the city limits accounts for 120 acres.
Fifty percent of this land should be used for new growth--109 acres remains
to be accommodated, most likely in the extraterritorial area. Consequently,
the Transition Land Class is allocated the 109 acres beyond the city limits
near areas already developed, principally along N. Howe Street where a
two inch water line was placed several years ago.
-67-

Thus, Transition includes land that will be provided water and sewer
service within the next ten years. The remainder of the land area 3is
1
classified as Rural for future land needs not currently recognized.
Section 3: Potential Areas of Environmental Concern
Coastal Wetlands - General
Coastal wetlands are defined as "any salt marsh or other marsh subject
to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including wind tides (whether
or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through natural or artifi-
cial watercourses), provided this shall not include hurricane or tropical
storm tides. Salt marshland or other marsh shall be those areas upon which
grow some, but not necessarily all, of the following salt marsh and marsh
plant species: Smooth or salt water Cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora);
Black Needlerush (Juncus roemerianus); Glasswort (Salicornia spp.); Salt
Grass (Distichlis Spicata); Sea Lavender (Limonium spp.); Bulrush (Scirpus
spp.); Saw Grass (Cladium Jamaicense); Cat -Tail (Typha spp.); Salt -
Meadow Grass (Spartina Patens); and Salt Reed Grass (Spartina cynosuroides)."
Included in this._statutory definition of wetlands is "such contiguous land
as the Secretary of NER reasonably deems necessary to affect by any such
order in carrying out the purposes of this Section." (G. S. 113-230 (a))
For policy purposes, coastal wetlands may be considered in two categories:
(1) low tidal marsh; (2) other coastal marshlands which have different
significance and policy implications.
Coastal Wetlands - Low Tidal Marshland
Description. Defined as marshland consisting primarily of Spartina
alterniflora and usually subject to inundation by the normal rise and fall
of lunar tides.
31According to State Guidelines for Local Planning, issued by CRC on
January 27, 1975 and amended October 15, 1975 page 46.
-69-

Significance. Low tidal marshland serves as a critical component
in the coastal ecosystem. The marsh is the basis for the high net yield
system of the estuary through the production of organic detritus (partially
decomposed plant material) which is the primary input source for the food
chain of the entire estuarine system. Estuarine dependent species of fish
and shellfish such as menhaden, shrimp, flounder, oysters and crabs
currently make up over ninety percent of the total value of North Carolina's
commercial catch.
In addition, the roots and rhizomes of the Spartina alterniflora
serve as waterfowl food and the stems as wildlife nesting material. Low
tidal marsh also serves as the first line of defense in retarding shoreline
erosion. The plant stems and leaves tend to dissipate wave action while
the vast network of roots resists soil erosion. Marshes of this type
operate additionally as traps for sediment originating from upland runoff
thus reducing siltation of the estuarine bottoms and consequent detriment
to marine organisms.
Policy Objective. To give the highest priority to the preservation
of low tidal marshland.
Appropriate Land Uses. Appropriate land uses shall be those consistent
with the above policy objective. These marshes should be considered unsuit-
able for all development which will alter their natural functions. Inappro-
priate land uses include, but are not limited to the following examples:
restaurants and businesses; residences, apartments, motels, hotels,,and.
trailer parks; parking lots and offices; spoil and dump sites; wastewater
lagoons; public and private roads and highways; and factories. Examples:
of acceptable land uses may include utility easements, fishing piers, docks,
certain agricultural uses except when excavation or filling affecting
estuarine or navigable waters is involved, and such other uses which do not
significantly alter the natural functions of the marsh.
-70-

i
Coastal Wetlands - Other Coastal Marshland
Description. All other marshland which is not low tidal marshland
and which contains the species of vegetation as listed in the first paragraph
under Coastal Wetlands General.
Significance. This marshland type also contributes to the detritus supply
necessary to the.highly productive estuarine system essential to North Carolina's
economically valuable commercial and sports fisheries.
The higher marsh types offer quality wildlife and waterfowl habitat
depending on the biological and physical conditions of the marsh. The vegeta-
tive diversity in the higher marshes usually supports a greater diversity of
wildlife types than the limited habitat of the low tidal marsh. This marsh-
land type also serves as an important deterrent to shoreline erosion espe-
cially in those marshes containing heavily rooted species. The dense system
of rhizomes and roots of Juncus roemerianus are highly resistant to erosion.
In addition, the higher marshes are effective sediment traps.
Policy Objective. To give a high priority to the preservation and
management of the marsh so as to safeguard and perpetuate their biological;.
economic and aesthetic values.
Appropriate Land Uses. Appropriate land uses shall be those consistent
with the above policy objective. Highest priority shall be allocated to
the conservation of existing marshlands. Second priority for land uses
allocation of this.type shall be given to development which requires water-,
access and cannot function anywhere else, such as ports, docks and marinas,
provided that the.actual location of such facilities within the marsh
consider coastal, physical and biological systems and further provided that
feasible alternatives regarding location and design have been adequately
considered and need for such development can be demonstrated. Such alloca-
tion may only be justified by the projected land use demands and by community
development objectives, but in no case shall the allocation exceed the capacity
of the marshland system to sustain losses without harm to the estuarine
-71-

.
ecosystem unless the losses would be offset by a clear and substantial
benefit to the public.
Estuarine Waters
Description. Estuarine waters are defined in G. S. 113-229 (n) (2)
as, "all the water of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundary of North
Carolina and all the waters of the bays, sounds, rivers, and tributaries
thereto seaward of the .dividing line between coastal fishing waters and
inland fishing waters, as set forth in an agreement adopted by the Wildlife
Resources Commission and the Department of Conservation and Development
filed with the Secretary of State entitled 'Boundary Lines, North Carolina
Commercial Fishing -Inland Fishing Waters, revised March 1, 1965,11' or as
it may be subsequently revised by the Legislature.
Significance. Estuaries are among the most productive natural environ-
ments of North Carolina. They not only support valuable commercial and
sports fisheries, but are also utilized for commercial navigation, recrea-
tion, and aesthetic purposes. Species dependent upon estuaries such as
menhaden, shrimp, flounder, oysters and crabs make up over ninety percent
of the total value of North Carolina's commercial catch. These species
must spend all or some part of their life cycle in the estuary. The.high
level of commercial and sports fisheries and the aesthetic appeal of coastal
North Carolina is_ dependent upon the protection and sustained quality of
our estuarine areas.
Policy Objective. To preserve and manage.estuarine waters so as to
safeguard and perpetuate their biological, economic and aesthetic values.
Appropriate Uses. Appropriate uses shall, be those consistent with
the above policy objective. Highest priority shall be allocated to the
conservation of estuarine waters. The development of navigational channels,
the use of.bulkheads to prevent erosion, and the building of piers or wharfs
where no other feasible alternative exists are examples of land uses appro-
priate within estuarine waters, provided that such land uses will not be
deterimental to the biological and physical estuarine functions and public .
trust rights. Projects which would directly or indirectly block or impair
-72-

existing navigation channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils
below mean high tide, cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate
water quality standards or cause degradation of shellfish waters. are
• generally considered incompatible with the management of estuarine waters.
Fragile, Historic or Natural Resource Areas - Areas
Containing Unique Geological Formations
Description. Areas containing unique geological formations will be
identified by the State Geologist. These places contain surface or near
surface formations that are either themselves unique or are especially
unusual or notable examples of geologic formations or processes in the
coastal area.
Significance. Unique geological areas provide surface or near
surface exposures of unique geologic formations or processes of the coastal
area. They are important educational, scientific, or scenic resources that
would be jeopardized by uncontrolled or incompatible development.
Policy Objective. To preserve the scientific, educational or scenic
values of unique geological formations so that they may be available for,
future study and enjoyment.
Appropriate Land Uses. Appropriate land uses shall be those consistent
with the above policy objective.. Uses within areas containing unique
geological formations shall be tailored to the particular unique qualities
of the individual.area.
Fragile, Historic or Natural Resource Areas - Historic Places
Description. Defined as historic places that are listed, or have been
approved for listing by the North Carolina Historical Commission, in the
National Register of Historic Places pursuant to the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966; historical, archaeological, and other places and
properties owned, managed, or assisted by the State of North Carolina pursuant
to G. S. 121; and properties or areas that are designated by the Secretary
of the Interior as National Historic Landmarks.
-73-

Significance. Historic resources are both non-renewable and
fragile. They owe their significance to their association with American
history, architecture, archaeology, and culture. Properties on or approved
for the National Register of Historic Places may be of national, state, or
local significance.
Policy Objective. To protect and/or preserve the integrity of dis-
tricts, sites, buildings, and objects in the above categories.
Appropriate Land Uses. Appropriate land uses shall be those consistent
with the above stated policy objective. Land use which will result in
substantial irreversible damage to the historic value of the area is inappro-
priate.
Areas Subject to Public Rights - General
Areas such as waterways and lands under or flowed by tidal waters or
navigable waters, to which the public may have rights of access or public
trust rights and areas which the State of North Carolina may be authorized
to preserve, conserve, or protect under Article XIV, Section 5, of.the North
Carolina Constitution.
Areas Subject to Public Rights - Certain Public Trust Areas
Description. All waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder
from the mean high water mark to the seaward limit of State jurisdiction;
all natural bodies of water subject to measurable lunar tides and lands
thereunder to the mean high water mark; all navigable natural bodies of
water and lands thereunder to any mean high water mark or ordinary high
water mark as the case may be, except privately owned lakes to which the
public has no right of access; all waters in artificially created bodies of
water in which exists significant public fishing resources or other public
resources, which are accessible to the public by navigation from bodies
of.water in which the public has rights of navigation; all waters in artifi-
cially created bodies of water in which the public has acquired rights by
prescription, custom, usage, dedication or any other means. In determining
=Z1a

whether the public has acquired rights in artificially created bodies of
water, the following factors shall be considered: (1) the use of the
body of water by the public; (ii) the length of time the public has used
the area; (iii) the value of public resources in the body of water;
(iv) whether the public.resources in the body of water are mobile to the
extent that they can move into natural bodies of water; (v) whether the
creation of the artificial body of water required permission from the
State; and (vi) the value of the body of water to the public for navigation
from one public area to another public area.
For purposes of the description in Areas Subject to Public Rights -
General and Areas Subject to Public Rights - Certain Public Trust Areas,
the following definitions shall apply:
(1)
Mean High Water Mark means the line on the shore established
by the average of all high tides. It is established by survey
based on available tidal datum. In the absence of such datum,
the mean high water mark shall be determined by physical mark-
ings or comparison of the area in question with an area having
similar physical characteristics for which tidal datum is
readily available.
(2)
Navigable means navigable -in -fact.
(3)
Navigable -in -fact means capable of being navigated in its
natural condition by the ordinary modes of navigation including
modes of navigation used for recreational purposes. The
natural condition of a body of water for purposes of determining
navigability shall be the condition of the body of water at mean
high water or ordinary high water as the case may be, and the
condition of the body of water without man-made obstructions
and without temporary natural obstructions. Temporary natural
conditions such as water level fluctuation and temporary natural
obstructions which do not permanently or totally prevent naviga-
tion do not make an otherwise navigable stream non -navigable.
(4)
Ordinary High Water Mark means the natural or clear line impressed
on the land adjacent to the waterbody. It may be established by
erosion or other easily recognized characteristics such as
shelving, change in the character of the soil, destruction,of
terrestrial vegetation or its inability to grow, the presence of
litter and debris, or other appropriate means which consider the
characteristics of the surrounding area. The ordinary high water
mark does not extend beyond the well defined banks of a river
where such banks exist.
-75-

Significance. The public has rights in these waters including
navigation and recreation. In addition, these waters.support valuable
commercial and sports fisheries, have aesthetic value, and are important
potential resources for economic development.
Policy Objective. To protect public rights for navigation and
recreation and to preserve and manage the public trust waters so as to
safeguard -and perpetuate their biological, economic and aesthetic value.
Appropriate Uses. Appropriate uses shall be those consistent with
the above policy objective. Any land use which interferes with the public
right of navigation, or other public trust rights, which the public may..
have found to have in these waters, shall not be allowed. The development
of navigational channels, drainage ditches, the use of bulkheads to prevent
erosion, and the building of piers or wharfs are examples of land uses
appropriate within public trust waters provided that such land uses will
not be detrimental to the biological and physical functions and public
trust rights. Projects which would directly or indirectly block or impair
existing navigation channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils
below mean high tide, cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate
water quality standards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters.are
generally considered incompatible with the management of public trust waters.
Natural Hazard Areas - Coastal Floodplains
Description: Coastal floodplain is defined as the land areas adjacent
to coastal sounds, estuaries or the ocean which are prone to flooding from
storms with an annual probability of one percent or greater (100 year storm).
These areas are analogous to the 100 year floodplain on a river. Information
necessary to identify these areas will be supplied by the State Geologist.
Significance. Coastal floodplains.are those lands subject to flooding
or wave action during severe storms or hurricanes. .They are lands where
uncontrolled, incompatible, or improperly designed building, structures,
® facilities, and.developments can unreasonably endanger life and property.
-76-

Except for those portions of the areas lying within estuarine'or ocean
erodible areas, they are not generally or necessarily subject to severe
erosion or dynamic action leading.to replacement of the land with a
body of.water. In most instances, structures within this area do not
obstruct the flow of waters or create any additional back waters.
Policy Objective. To ensure that all buildings, structures,
facilities and developments are properly designed and built to maintain
their stability, integrity, and safety in the event of flood surge from
a 100 year storm.
Appropriate Land Uses. Appropriate land uses shall be those
consistent with the above policy objective. It is reasonable to allow
a certain degree of development if it is carefully controlled and meets
stringent engineering standards for stability, integrity and safety
during a 100 year storm. The land use plan may allow development activities,
and if such development is undertaken, as a minimum it must conform with
the standards of the Federal Insurance Administration for coastal high
hazard areas and safety during the flood surge from a 100 year storm.
(Code of Federal Regulations, Title 24, Chapter 10, Subchapter B)
Development Standards Applicable to All AECs
No development should be allowed in any AEC which would result in a
contravention or violation of any rules, regulations, or laws of the State
of North Carolina or of local government in which the development takes
place.
No development should be allowed in any AEC which would have a
substantial likelihood of causing pollution of the waters of the State
to the extent that such waters would be closed to the taking of shellfish
under standards set by the Commission of Health Services pursuant to
G. S. 130-169.01.
-77-

Section 4: Location and Development Standards
These standards serve two purposes: as a basis for the Land Use Plan
and a guide to public officials and citizens for evaluating development
proposals. These standards state where the various land uses should be
located and how land should be developed for each land use.
Residential areas should:
--have public water and sewer service within corporate limits.
--have 20,000 square feet minimum lot sizes where community/
public water and sewer service is unavailable; 15,000 square
feet if either water and sewer facilities are available.but
not both.
--be bound but not crossed by major thoroughfares.
--construct utilities including electric and telephone lines
underground, where the ground water table prohibits underground
electric wires, utility poles should follow rear property lines.
--not locate in flood prone areas or in the case of beach communities
should be above minimum building elevation and flood proofed as
recommended by HUD - Federal Insurance Administration.
--provide locations for churches, schools, recreation, and neighbor-
hood serving stores near their center.
--be buffered from other land uses.
Commercial areas.should:
--locate near intersections of major thoroughfares to better serve
i., trade areas.
--not be permitted to develop in strips, but rather in compact.
gropped and consolidated into functional units.
--provide adequate off-street parking with designated entrances and
exits.
--have adequate space; neighborhood shopping centers should range from
3 to 6 acres in size while for community shopping centers from 10
to 30 acres in size.
• --have compatible signs which do not obstruct sight.
-78-

Office and institutional areas should:
--serve as buffers between residential areas and commercial or
industrial uses.
--locate in planned office and institutional parks.
--have adequate off-street parking facilities.
--have compatible signs which do not obstruct sight.
Industrial areas should:
--locate on nearly level ground; generally.not more than 5% slope.
--be well drained and on good load bearing soil.
---locate where public water, sewer and other utilities are
available.
--locate near railroads, major thoroughfares, airports, navigable
waters, -and major utility and transmission lines.
provide sites large enough for expansion.
--have property owner commitment at a set price.
-79-

ARTICLE VII - CONCLUSION
The Land Use Plan culminates six months' of work by the City of
Southport plus the substance of public meetings and surveys where input
was given by local residents.
Obstacles to present and future development are clearly identified,
means and methods for dealing with development problems and development
opportunities are recommended. The protection of the public health, safety
and welfare of present and future residents can be assured provided the
Board of Aldermen implement the recommendations listed herein as develop-
ment policy.
Major conclusions of the Land Use Plan are:
--Unless the proper safeguards are installed future development
threatens the quality of surface waters and groundwater.
--Present development can be classified as very low density with
approximately 120 acres available for development within the
city limits.
--Southport requires the professional services of fulltime qualified
personnel to insure the efficient and wise management of the
community's resources.
--Southport and Brunswick County have coordinated very few services.
--Recreation facilities, fire protection, street surfacing and
municipal. -services are in need of improvement.
--Southport contains many historic sites which have yet to achieve
local recognition.
--Critical Areas of Environmental Concern and the fishing and
recreational industry provide Southport with a character all its
own.
Wo

CITIZEN OPINION SURVEY
FOR THE
CITY OF SOUTHPORT
Southport is preparing a land use plan in order to comply with the
requirements of the Coastal Area Management Act of 1974. One of the most
important aspects of land use planning is that the plan adequately reflect
citizen opinions and attitudes toward the use of the community's land --both
public and private. The following survey is intended to give each citizen
the opportunity to express his opinion on land use problems and issues. Your
cooperation in answering the following questions will be appreciated.
Upon completing the questionnaires please return to:
Mr. Alvin Kornegay
City Manager
City Hall
Southport, N.C. 28461
1. Are you a permanent resident of Southport? ( ) yes ( ) no
2. If nots how often do -you live in Southport?
weekends summer months
3. What is your age?
4. Do you live in a: ( ) single-family house
( ) duplex
( ) mobile home
( ) apartment
( ) condominium
5. During the next five years would you like to see the population of
Southport --
( ) increase greatly
( ) increase slightly
( ) decrease greatly
! ( ) decrease slightly
(. ) stay the same

- 2 -
6. Which of the following types of development would you like to see more or
less of
in Southport?
More
Less
f
"
single-family housing
(
)
(
)
apartments
condominiums•
(
)
(
)
mobile homes
(
)
(
)
commercial
industrial
(
)
(
)
public open space
(
)
(
)
public recreation facilities
(
)
(
)
(playgrounds and parks)
other (specify)
7. "For what
reasons did you choose to live
in
Southport?
( ) close to work
( ) pleasant surroundings
( ) low taxes
( ) reasonably priced land
and house
( ) close to family and friends
(. .) single-family beach
other
8. In which
of the following areas do you feel
more
public
funds should
be spent?
More
Less
water and sewer
(
)
(
)
garbage collection
(
)
(
)
fire and police protection
(
)
(
)
schools
(
)
(
)
parks and recreational
(
)
(
)
facilities and programs
roadsor public transit
(
)
(
)
environmental protection
(
)
(
)
'
industrial development
(
)
(
)
town management
(
)
(
)
other

_ 3 _
9.
What do you like most
about
Southport?
10.
What do you like least
about
Southport?
11.
Do you think development should be permitted in
the following
areas --
Never
Seldom Frequently
Always
lands near inlets
{ )
( )
( )
( )
beaches
( )
( )
( )
( )
marshes
( )
( )
( )
( )
dunes
inland waterway
( )
( )
( )
( )
other
12.
is there any particular area
or type of area within the Town limits or
within one mile of the
Town limits that you feel
is unique or
special and
should be preserved or
protected in its present
state or form?
1
i 13. Please use the following space to make any additional comments you would like.
Thank you for your help and cooperation. This questionnaire should be
returned to the Town Hall by April 30th.

Rare and Endangered Species*
BRUNSWICK'COUNTY
Amphibians
Gopher Frog = Rana'Aerolata amphibian
Status: Peripheral - Undertermined in North Carolina
Reptiles
American alligator - Alligator Mississi iensis
:General Comments: Protected, North Carolina, but development and
alteration of habitat endangers species
Status: Peripheral - Endangered in North Carolina and nationally
Coral Snake - Micurus Fulvius
General Comments: Very Secretive, North -Carolina northern limit range
Status: Peripheral - Rare in North Carolina
Eastern Diamond Rattlesnake - Crotalus Adamanteus
General Comments: North Carolina port ern limit range
Status: Peripheral - Rare in North Carolina
Vascular Plants
Sagittaria teres
Preferred Habitat: Acid, sandy ponds and bogs
General Comments: Very Rare
Status: Rare
Ultricularia Olivacea
Preferred Habitat: Ponds
General Comments: Very Rare
Status: Rare and Endangered.
Heterotheca Correllii
Preferred Habitat: Sandy woods
General comments: Very Rare
Status: Rare
* Source: North Carolina Department of Natural and Economic Resources,
Preliminary list of Endangered Plant and Animal Species in
North Carolina, June 1973.