Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutLand Use Plan Update-1986Y \ j �. dy i I } DCM COPY DCM COPY lease do not remove!!!!! L Division of Coastal Management HERTFORD-COUNTY LAND USE PLAN UPDATE HERTFORD COUNTY LAND USE PLAN UPDATE The preparation of this plan was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Manage- ment Act of 197.29 as amended, which is administered by the Office of Coastal Zone Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. PREPARED FOR THE HERTFORD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS BY THE MID -EAST COMMISSION 1986 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1. Introduction ....................................... 1 II. Data Collection and Analysis ....................... 3 A. Present Conditions ........................ 3 B. Constraints: Land Suitability ............ 22 C. Constraints: Capacity of Community Facilities..............................33 D. Estimated Demand ..........................43 E. Summary ................... ..............47 F. Major Conclusions .........................49 III. Policy Statements ............... 55 A. Resource Protection .......................56 B. Resource Production and Management ........ 63 C. Economic and Community Development ........ 66 D. Continuing Public Participation ........... 72 E.*' Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery and Evacuation Plans ........... 74 F. Proposed Five -Year Work Program ........... 83 IV. Land Classification ................................ 86 A. Developed.................................86 8. Transition................................87 C. Community ................ ...............90 D. Rural.....................................90 E. Conservation .............. ..............91 V. Relationship of Policies and Land Classification... 93 A. Developed and Transition Classes .......... 93 B. Community Class ............................93 C. Rural Class...............................94 D. Conservation Class........................94 VI. Intergovernmental Coordination and Implementation.. 96 VII. Public Participation ............................... 98 Appendix A: Technical Index.......................100 Map: Existing Land Use Map, 1985....... Back Cover Pocket Map: Land Classification Map, 1985..... Back Cover Pocket Map: Hazard Areas Map, 1985............. Back Cover Pocket I. INTRODUCTION Hertford County has long been an adherent of the Land Use Planning process. Consequently, this document represents the County's enthusiastic endeavor to conform to the requirements of the Coastal Area Management Act. It is written in accordance with the amended Land Use Planning Guidelines, Sub. 7H of 15 NCAC, effective as of July 1984, updated again in February, 1985. The original, first update, and present update will serve as a "blueprint" for future development in Hertford County. According to the Land Use Planning Guidelines, the major. purpose of periodic updating of local land use plans is to identify and analyze emerging community issues and problems, and help local governments establish and enforce policies to guide the development of their Counties. The guidelines further define the following objectives the update should meet: 1. to further define and refine local policies and issues; Z. to further examine and refine the land classification system and the land classification map; 3. to further explore implementation procedures and; 4. to promote a better understanding of the land use planning process. As the preceding objectives reflect a continuing refinement of the original CAMA 1976 Plan, then the original plan should be utilized as a base for this update.. This is logical since some 1 of the data incorporated into the original and first update are still applicable today. Thus, this update will periodically refer to the 1976 CAMA Plan and 1980 Update. The Land Use Plan is also to be an instrument for local units of government to use in addressing and developing local policies to guide in the development of their communities. In order to fulfill and promote the preceding objectives, the Land Use Guidelines state that four basic elements must be addressed. These basic elements are: 1. a summary of data collection and analysis; 2. an existing land use map; 3. policy discussion; and; 4. a land classification map. In addition to these four elements, issues addressed in the 1976 Plan and the 1980 Update are still relevant will be identi- fied and analyzed. Consequently, this update will, where applicable, refer to the 1976 document and the 1980 previous update. New issues not existing in 1976 or 1980, such as hurricane damage and possible mitigation strategies, will also be addressed. 2 II. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS A. Present Conditions 1. Population and Economy There has been no significant change in population trends in Hertford County since the 1980 CAMA Land Use Plan Update. Table 1 indicates the population changes that have occurred in the County and municipalities from 1970 through the 1983 estimates. All towns, except Cofield, experienced a decrease in popula- tion ranging from 4.3% in Ahoskie to 5B% in Como between the 1970 and 1980 Census. The 1983 estimate of population, however, indicates that the County has had an overall increase in popula- tion of 1.6% since 1980. TABLE 1 POPULATION HERTFORD COUNTY AND MUNICIPALITIES 1970, 1980 AND 1983 1970 1980 1983 Hertford County 23,529 23,368 23,739 Ahoskie 5,105 41887 4,880 Cofield 318 465 517 Como 211 89 92 Harrellsville 165 151 151 Murfreesboro 4,418 3,007 2,974 Winton 917 825 837 Source: North Carolina Municipal Population Office of State Budget and Management, 1984. U. S. Dept. of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Final Population and Housing Unit Counts, March 1981. 3 TABLE 2 PROJECTED POPULATION BY RACE, SEX AND PERCENTAGE OF GRAND TOTAL HERTFORD COUNTY 1985 AND 1990 1980 % 1985 % 1990 White Male 4,951 (21.2) 4,857 (20.5) 4,676 (19.7) White Female 5,352 (22.9) 5,163 (21.8) 4,970 (20.9) Total 10,303 (44.1) 109020 (42.3) 9,646 (40.7) Other Male 6,109 (26.1) 6,537 (27.6) 6,787 (28.6) Other Female 6,956 (29.8) 7,106 (30.0) 7,295 (30.7) Total 13,065 (55.9) 13,643 (57.7) 14,082 (59.3) GRAND TOTAL 23,368 (100.0) 23,663 (100.0) 23,728 (100.0) Source: North Carolina Office of State Budget and Manage- ment, 1983. Table 2 shows the 1985 and 1990 population projections by race and sex as compared to the 1980 Census data. As the table denotes, Hertford County's population will continue a slight increase, however, the racial composition is projected to be 42.3% white and 57.7% other (Black, Eskimo, Native American) for 1985 and 40.7% and 59.3% respectively for 1990. This forecasts a further decrease in the white population from 1980. Past trends and future projections connote a continuing decrease in the white population into the next decade. It must be noted that projections can be skewed positively or negatively by many unforeseen factors or actions. However, in Hertford County's case, we feel that these projections may well be an accurate assessment of our future. 4 Hertford County's past economy was dominated by agricul- tural employment. Presently, agricultural employment is 4.4% of total employment and has shown a consistent decline since 1974. The latest available labor force statistics (1985) indicate that of the total civilian labor force of 11,780, total employ- ment is 10,670. Agricultural employment accounts for 470 persons; non-agricultural employment is 10,200. Manufacturing employment accounts for 25.6% of the labor force. The occupa- tional structure of Hertford County is 74.9% skilled and semi- skilled. This is an asset for the County in its quest for more industry since little additional training would be required for industrial employment. Table 3 indicates manufacturing firms in Hertford County at the current time. Three (3) manufacturing firms: Carolina Billets, an aluminum smelting plant; Chowan Trading Company, Inc., an export-import company; and Northeastern Construction, a pre -stressed concrete company have located in Hertford County since 1980 adding 100 or more jobs. Other significant employment factors in Hertford County include the impact of approximately 320 transient or commuter employees to the Tidewater ship -build- ing and other marine industries. Hertford County presently has an unemployment rate of 4.5% (September 1985). This marks a substantial decrease from 9.3% a year earlier. 5 The agricultural economic picture for the County according to the 1982 Census of Agriculture shows that the County's farmers sold $26.8 million in agricultural products. Of this amount, 83% represented sales from crops, while 17% came from sales of livestock, poultry, and their products. The Census also indicates that the number of farms decreased from 437 to 349, but that the land used for crops increased to 50,707 acres. Much discussion about the tobacco subsidy program and the effect on the economy, should this program be eliminated, is causing concern for many North Carolina counties. Hertford County, though a tobacco producer, does not have an economy which is tied heavily to tobacco, nor is tobacco the major source of agriculture revenue. The 1982 value of the tobacco yield was $7,160,000 compared to the $10,583,000 value of the peanut crop. Hertford County is one of the leading peanut producers in North Carolina. The County's combined corn and soybean production is valued greater (7,455,000) than the tobacco yield and as such, the possible loss of the program poses less of a threat to the County's economy than previously thought. There is justifiable reason to suppose that the economy will remain a viable economy. The per capita income, for instance, has shown a steady increase from $2,295 in 1969 to $7,129 in 1981. . 6 Hertford County does not envision any significant land use changes or practices resulting from the population and economic shifts. The economic activities discussed should have no effect on coastal land and water resources. TABLE 3 MANUFACTURING FIRMS HERTFORD COUNTY, 1984 Emolovment Firm Location Product Range Bennett Box Co. Ahoskie Boxes 145-155 Blue Bell Ahoskie Apparel 135-145 Brittenham Rebuild- ing Services, Inc. Ahoskie Rebuilding Car 5-10 Parts Carolina"Billets Ahoskie Smelting Aluminum 60-70 Columbia Peanut Co. Ahoskie Peanuts 20-50 Commerical Ready Ahoskie Ready Mix Mix Concrete 5-10 FCX, Inc. Ahoskie Fertilizer 10-20 Fabco, Inc. Ahoskie Laminated 50-100 Paneling Freeman Metal Works Ahoskie Caskets 50 Georgia-Pacific Ahoskie Lumber 90-100 H. T. Jones Co. Ahoskie Lumber 50-100 Lucas Machine & Ahoskie Metal Work 11 Welding Co. Parker Brothers Ahoskie Printing 140-150 Perdue, Inc. Ahoskie Grain Process- 10-20 ing Pierce Printing Co. Ahoskie Commerical 10-20 Printing Ramsey Lumber Ahoskie Lumber 50-100 Commerical Ready Cofield Concrete 10-20 Mix Perdue Farms, Inc. Cofield Soybean 114 Processing Chowan Milling Co. Como Grain Mill 7 7 Employment Firm Location Product Range Chowan Trading Harrellsville Export -Import 4-8 Co., Inc. Hapco Harrellsville Apparel 95-105 Harrellsville Harrellsville Machine Shop 10-20 Metal Works Facet Enterprises Murfreesboro Fuel Pumps 105-115 Facet Enterprises, Murfreesboro Auto Parts 100-250 Inc. Assembly Georgia-Pacific Murfreesboro Baskets 345-355 Howell Metal Corp. Murfreesboro Industrial 30 Equipment Parts Murfreesboro Murfreesboro Fabrication 15-25 Machine Shop Machinery Revelle Agri. Murfreesboro Feed -Seed 20-30 Products Revelle Builders Murfreesboro Butler 10-20 Buildings Rollic of NC Murfreesboro Sportswear 265-275 & Piece Goods Rose Brothers Murfreesboro Asphalt 25-35 Paving Co. Tulloss Industrial Murfreesboro Industrial 10-14 Equipment Repair Carolina Aluminum Winton Aluminum 628-638 Extrusion Source: 1985-1986 Directory of North Carolina Manufacturing Firms; North Carolina Department of Commerce, Industrial Development Division, 1984 and Hertford County Office of Industrial Development, 19e5. 8 2. Existing Land Use Subsequent to the Land Use Plan Update of 1980 few major land 'use patterns have changed in Hertford County. Table 4 lists the breakdown of land uses within the county. TABLE 4 LAND USES BY ACREAGE AND PERCENTAGE HERTFORD COUNTY 1985 Land Use Acreage Percentage Forestry 151,700 65.5% Cropland and Pastures 59,700 25.8% Rivers and Lakes 5,000 2.2% Urban -type Areas 5,200 2.2% Other 10,000 4.3% TOTAL 231,600 100.0% Source: Profile North Carolina Counties; Office of State Budget and Management, Sixth Edition, 1981; page 110. Analysis of present data and comparison with past records indicate that no significant land use has changed or is now devoted to new land uses. Harvested cropland in Hertford County has decreased from 52,300 acres in 1982 to 43,800 acres in 1983. This is due to the federal Payment in Kind (PIK) program; a decrease in tobacco and peanut acreage allotment; acreage devoted to land application systems; and only minimally by land transition to urban uses. A March 1983 annexation by the Town of Ahoskie has NC Agricultural Statistics, 1984; NC Dept. of Agriculture 9 added 13.23 acres of land to the urban category. The annexed properties are located 2 1/2 miles southwest of Ahoskie near NC 561 and NC 11. Future annexations (pending in Murfreesboro and Winton) will add additional land to the urban category; however, not in any significant amount. An investigation of the existing land use map and Table 1 discloses that Hertford County's population is distributed fairly evenly within the County and concentrated linearly along the transportation routes. This is the prevalent pattern throughout the County with the exception of some clustering near the population centers within the County. For the present, the County's development patterns are such that no significant compatibility problems are likely to occur. Land use pattern discussions are incomplete without address- ing land which has environmental significance. Hertford County has three (3) categories designated as Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC). The first of these is Estuarine Waters. Estuarine Waters act as spawning grounds, hatcheries and nursery areas for many forms of aquatic life and should be protected and are subject to developmental regulation and control. Within Hertford County, the Chowan and Meherrin Rivers are Estuarine Waters Areas of Environmental Concern. The second type of AEC's within the County is Public Trust Waters. Public Trust Waters are those waters whose benefits belong to the public whether for commercial or recreational 10 enjoyment. Land uses that infringe upon the Public Trust Waters must be regulated and controlled. Activities that might block or impair existing navigational channels, increase beach of shoreline erosion, deposit soils below mean high tide cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate water quality standards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters are generally incompatible with the management of Public Trust Waters. Algae blooms in the Chowan River had emphasized the necessity for controls and regulations to prevent the degradation of Public Trust Waters. In order to control development in these sensitive areas, Hertford County has been issuing special minor CAMA permits. All waters in the County that are navigable and to which the public has the right of use are Public Trust Waters Areas of Environmental Concern. In Hertford County these are the Chowan, Meherrin and Wiccacon Rivers. Many Public Trust Waters also overlap Estuarine Waters. The last class of AEC's in Hertford County is Estuarine Shorelines. These shorelines are located along the previously mentioned Chowan and Meherrin Rivers. The shorelines extend from the mean high water level along the County's estuarine waters for a distance of 75 feet landward. Within the three (3) previously mentioned AEC's, the County has been issuing minor development CAMA permits. With the enforcement of CAMA permits in these areas of environmental concern, the local enforcement efforts have been able to 11 effectively control development in these areas. The County is aware that locally nominated areas of environmental concern can. be suggested to the Coastal Resources Commission; however, the County does not feel that additional areas of the County require AEC designation at this time. The value of CAMA permits in sensitive areas is accepted in Hertford County because of the nutrient pollution problems on the Chowan River. While the restoration of the river is a major local and state goal, the future protection and enhance- ment of the County's rivers through such means as land develop- ment controls will remain a high priority. The designation of AEC helps provide the means to enhance this protection. Other areas of concern in the County are areas which have been classified as Conservation and Coastal Wetlands under the 1976 and 1980 CAMA plans. Conservation areas are situated along the Chowan, Meherrin and Wiccacon Rivers, and along creeks and ponds. These areas have been so designated because of their uniqueness and contribution to the integrity of coastal natural environment. (See Land Classification Map). Although Hertford County lies 55-60 miles west of the Atlantic coastline, some small Coastal Wetlands may exist within the area. 3. Current Plans, Policies and Regulations Transportation Plans In the 1980 CAMA Land Use Plan Update, a preliminary Thoroughfare Plan was prepared by the North Carolina Department 12 of Transportation. This plan analyzed the existing traffic patterns and suggested a plan for highway and street improvement. The plan was subsequently adopted in 1981 and the suggestions have been implemented. Table 5 is a summary of the highway mileages in Hertford County. TABLE 5 HIGHWAY MILEAGE BY SYSTEMS HERTFORD COUNTY 1983 Primary 110.57 Secondary 336.04 Total 446.61 Paved 343.56 Unpaved 103.05 Total 446.61 Source: North Carolina State Government Statistical Abstract, 5th ed., 1984. A Transportation Development Plan for Bertie, Halifax, Hertford and Northampton Counties was completed in March 1985. This plan reveals that commercial transportation within the study area is inadequate for the needs of the citizens. The study indicates that the area is serviced by one intercity carrier, Carolina Trailways, and one intra-area public carrier, the Choanoke Public Transportation Authority. Private transpor- tation providers operate a limited number of licensed taxis within the counties. Carolina Trailways serves the towns of Ahoskie and Murfrees- boro in Hertford County. Service from Murfreesboro to Weldon/ 13 Roanoke Rapids, Raleigh and Rocky Mount is provided by Carolina Trailways. Greyhound Lines does not operate in Hertford County. Public transportation in the area is provided by the Choanoke Public Transportation Authority (CPTA). CPTA has fixed routes and demand responsive routes within the service area. The system has 16 passenger vans and operates from 6:00 am to 6:30 pm five days a week. Transportation is provided to medical appointments, Social Services, Community Colleges, group shopping trips, and Older Americans nutrition sites. Charter service is also available. Taxi service within Hertford County is provided by Branches Taxi of Ahoskie operating three (3) vehicles and George's Taxi of Murfreesboro operating one (1) vehicle. Monthly ridership figures average about 150 trips for Branches and 240 trips for George's. Communities Facilities Plan Hertford County does not have a Comprehensive Community Facilities Plan. A Region Q Water Management Plan, prepared for the Mid -East Commission in 1975, examined the water and sewer needs of Hertford County. Some of the needs identified have been rectified and some units of government are in the process of initiating or finalizing projects. Since the previous update, Murfreesboro has finalized its wastewater treatment facility and the plant is now operational. The Town of Winton's wastewater treatment project is approximately fifty percent (50%) 14. completed at this writing. The Town of Harrellsville has upgraded its water system and Ahoskie is in the land acquisition process in preparation for a wastewater facility. Other munici- palities within the County rely on septic tanks and wells as sewer and water facilities respectively. Open Space and Recreation Policy Hertford County does not have a Comprehensive Recreation Plan, but relies on the municipalities to develop their own plans and policies. The County allocates funds from Revenue Sharing monies to the municipalities based on a population formula. Municipalities are then free to provide their own recreational activities. Water related activities are a big part of recreation throughout the County. Currently public access is available at Chowan and Tuscarora beaches as well as several private beaches. Boat landings are scattered along the County's rivers at Mur- freesboro, Swain's Mill, Tunis (2), Parker's Ferry and Reid's Ferry. Prior Land Use Plans Hertford County had its prior land use plan prepared under the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act Program in 1976 and an update in 19eO. The Hertford County Planning Board, which has been in existence for 17 years, has been extremely active in guiding land use planning activities. 15 Prior Land Use Policies Hertford County's general land use policies were established under the 1976 CAMA Plan and revised in the 1980 Land Use Plan Update. Current policies are found within this document. Local Regulations A listing of regulations which Hertford County is enforcing is compiled and presented below: a. Flood Plain Restrictions - Hertford County is presently enforcing flood plain restrictions through their Zoning Ordinance. Flood hazard areas have been identified and mapped. The County is not participating in the National Flood Insurance Program, but=..is presently considering participation. b. Building Codes - The County enforces all North Carolina Building, Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical Codes. c. Septic Tank Regulations - Septic tank regulations are being enforced by the Hertford -Gates County District Health Department in accordance with State standards. d. Other Land Use Ordinances - Hertford County enforces a number of ordinances such as zoning, subdivision and mobile home, and utilizes the CAMA minor development permits process. Hertford County's Building Inspector administers these and other related ordinances. e. State and Federal Regulations - As indicated, Hertford County enforces a number of regulations which have a significant impact of land use decisions. Also, many 16 state and federal regulations influence the County's land use decisions. Tables b and 7 list those State and Federal Regulations. Hertford County does not have ordinances relating to Historic Districts, nuisances, dune protection or environmental impact. However, it is noted that they require an environmental impact statement or assessment by new industry locating in the County and their Zoning Ordinance does allow for the establishment of Historic Districts. ,7 TABLE 6 STATE DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS Agency Licenses and Permits Department of Natural Resources - Permits to discharge to sur- and Community Development face waters or operate waste- water treatment plants or oil discharge permits; NPDES Per- mits, (G.S. 143-215). Division of Environmental Management Permits for septic tanks that serve industrial process water flow or are community owned. Such systems owned by the State or Federal government are under the jurisdiction of the Health Department, (G.S. 143-215.3). - Permits for air pollution abatement facilities and sources (G.S. 143-215.108). Permits for construction of complex sources; e.g. parking lots, subdivision, stadiums, etc. (G.S. 143-215.109). - Permits for construction of a well over 100,000 gallons/ day (G.S. 87-88). Department of Natural Resources - Permits to dredge and/or fill and Community Development in estuarine waters, tide - Division of Coastal Management lands, etc. (G.S. 113-229). - Permits to undertake develop- ment in Areas of Environ- mental Concern (G.S. 113A- 118). Note: Minor development permits are issued by the local government. 18 TABLE 6 CONTINUED Department of Natural Resources - Permits to alter or construct and Community Development dams (G.S. 143-215.66). Division of Land Resources - Permits to mine (G.S. 74-51). - Permits to drill exploratory oil or gas wells (G.S. 113- 3B1). - Permits to conduct geograph- ical explorations (G.S. 113-391). - Sedimentation erosion control plans for any land disturb- ing activity of over one contiguous acre (G.S. 113A-54). Department of Natural Resources - Permits to construct oil and Community Development refineries. Secretary of NRCD Department of Administration - Easements to fill where lands are proposed to be raised above the normal high water mark or navigable waters (G.S. 146.6). Department of Human Resources - Approval to operate a solid waste disposal site or facility (G.S. 130- 166.16). - Approval for construction of any public water supply facility that furnishes water to ten or more residences (G.S. 130- 160.1). - Permits for septic tank systems of 3000 gallons/day or less capacity (G.S. 130-160). Source: CAMA Land Use Plan Update, Hertford County, NC, 1980. 19 TABLE 7 FEDERAL DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS Agency Army Corps of Engineers (Department of Defense) Licenses and Permits - Permits required under Sections 9 and 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899; permits to construct in navigable waters. - Permits required under Section 103 of the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972. - Permits required under Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act; permits to undertake dredging and/or filling activities. Coast Guard - Permits for bridges, cause - (Department of Transportation) ways and pipelines over navigable waters required under the General Bridge Act of 1946 and the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899. Geological Survey Bureau of Land Management (Department of Interior) Nuclear Regulatory Commission (Department of Energy) - Deep water port permits. - Permits required for off- shore drilling. - Approval of OCS pipeline corridor rights -of -ways. - Licenses for siting, con- struction and operation of nuclear power plants required under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 and Title II of the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974. 20 TABLE 7 CONTINUED Federal Energy Regulation Commission (Department of Energy) - Permits for construction, operation and maintenance of interstate pipelines facilities required under the Natural Gas Act of 1938. - Orders of interconnection of electric transmission facilities under Section 202 (b) of the Federal Power Act. - Permission required for abandonment of natural gas pipelines and associated facilities under Section 7C (b) of the Natural Gas Act of 1938. Source: CAMA Land Use Plan Update, Hertford County, NC, 1980. 21 B. Constraints: Land Suitability In instances where conditions have not changed and/or new data has been made available, the 1976 Plan and the 1980 Update will be utilized as a reference and source of information. 1) Physical Limitations a) Man -Made Hazards (1) The man-made hazards within Hertford County are limited in number. Existing man-made hazards consist of eight (8) sites for storage of flammable liquids or gases. These sites are not "tank farms", but are home heating and gas suppliers, and are located at East Memorial Drive, North Rhue and Catherine Streets, US 13 South, NC 42 Jernigan's Swamp Road in Ahoskie and in the Millennium Community. Two sites are located in Murfreesboro at the west and east end of Main Street. (2) An additional man-made hazard within the County is an airport. Tri-County Airport is located on NC 561 in the southwestern part of the County and averages thirty (30) take -offs and landings daily. The airport does not encroach on the present pattern of urbanization. Height controls and a limitation on building are in effect to reduce future conflict with noise and glidepath patterns. 22 b) Natural Hazards (1) Natural hazard areas in the County are flood hazard areas or flood plains of the Chowan and Meherrin Rivers and their tributaries. The 65- 70 miles of erodible shores of these rivers and tributaries are also hazard areas. In fact, the only areas of 12% predominant slope within the County exist along the rivers and their tribu- taries. The aforementioned areas are identified on the composite Hazard Map. (2) Areas with soil limitations in Hertford County are found adjacent to and along the banks of the Chowan, Meherrin and Wiccacon Rivers and their tributaries. These areas consist of Dorovan- Bibb-Wehadkee soils. These soils are poorly to somewhat poorly drained and are hazardous for building foundations. Poor drainage soils of the Craven and Lenoir types exist in the Winton and Cofield areas, and present severe wetness problems in shallow excavations. These soils also present limitations for siting of septic tanks. (3) A concern on the part of some County residents relates to the possibility of Hertford County being selected as a site for the storage and 23 disposal of hazardous waste materials. This possibility should be very remote due to the population density, the geologic formations, and the water table conditions of the County. (4) Much discussion and controversy exists regard- ing the effect of water withdrawal by Virginia sources as well as local usage. The Groundwater Section of the Division of Environmental Manage- ment prepared an interim report revealing the following information:_ "The extensive ground- water reservoirs of the Coastal Plain region were considered a relatively unlimited source of water supply until recent years. Expanding development of these reservoirs in North Carolina and adjacent states during the past 20 years and the effects of this development on water levels and artesian pressures have shown that the reservoir capacities and recharge rates are limited." Discussions with an old, est- ablished well drilling firm substantiates the fact that the water levels are declining in private and commercial wells in Hertford County. According to their experiences, 400' wells Interim Report on Groundwater Conditions in Northeast- ern North Carolina; Groundwater Section, Div. of Environ- mental Management, NCNRCD; Nov. 1977; page 1. 24 drilled 20 years ago had water as close at 15' to the surface. Today those same wells have water 35' to 40' below the surface. Closely related to the groundwater issue is the matter of recharge which comes principally from precipitation. It has been estimated that about 20% of the average annual rainfall enters the water -table aquifer._ This amounts to about 10 inches and represents -about 170 million gallons per square mile. While these figures do not indicate a high rate of recharge, it is consid- ered to be more than sufficient for current and projected use. (5) Another issue of concern to County residents is channelization. Channelization is a process of artificial drainage of farmland. Approximately 67% of the farmland in the North Carolina Chowan Watershed is drained as compared to 6% of the farmland in the Virginia Chowan Watershed. In addition to this, the study, Land Use, Nutrient Yield, and Euthrophication in the Chowan'River Basin, by UNC at Chapel Hill, reveals that a greater amount of low lying farmland in North Carolina cannot be tilled without drainage. At 25 the time of the study, in 1978, the Soil Conser- vation Service had channelized approximately 22% of the stream miles in the North Carolina Chowan Watershed. The study concludes that this artificial drainage and runoff of farmlands con- tribute greatly to nutrient inputs in the Chowan Watershed. (6) The concern related to nutrient input polluting the Chowan is one of Hertford County's oldest problems. Periodic algae blooms, fish kills and the outbreak of red sore disease have been studied and documented (Chowan River Restoration Project - Action Plan - 1979; Division of En- vironmental Management, North Carolina Depart- ment of Natural Resources and Community Develop- ment). One significant result was the passing of legislation, in 1979, of the Nutrient Sensi- tive Water Classification Bill. The Environ- mental Management Commission declared the Chowan River a Nutrient Sensitive Area which gives the County authority to regulate discharge by issuance of special permits. 2) Fragile Areas - Fragile areas in Hertford County consist of the estuarine waters of the Chowan and Meherrin 26 Rivers; estuarine shorelines of these rivers and tributaries; public trust waters; and complex natural areas which consist of several wooded swamps located along the Chowan River shoreline. Other fragile areas included in this category are sand dunes, ocean beaches and shorelines, areas that sustain remnant species and areas containing unique geologic formations, none of these areas exist in Hertford County. The County has also identified numerous sites which contain churches, stores and houses of archaeological and historical significance. Tables BA and 8B include registered and unregis- tered historical sites within the County. In addition to the registered and unregistered historic sites, Hertford County also has at least 68 prehistoric archaeo- logical sites. These are located throughout the County with 27 of these in the Union area, 10 around Mintons Store, 9 around Harrellsville, and the others spread out in 6 other areas. 27 TABLE BA REGISTERED HISTORIC SITES HERTFORD COUNTY 1984 The following sites are on the National Registry: Building Location Ahoskie Downtown Historical District Ahoskie Wynnewood -James Newsome House Ahoskie King -Casper -Ward -Bazemore House Ahoskie William Mitchell House Ahoskie Myrick House Cofield Riddick House Como Vernon Place Como Hare Plantation Como Deane House Menola Mulberry Grove Minton's Store Gray Gable/James S. Mitchell House Murfreesboro William Rea Store Murfreesboro Roberts -Vaughan House Murfreesboro John Wheeler House Murfreesboro The Cedars Murfreesboro The Columns Murfreesboro Freeman House Murfreesboro Melrose Murfreesboro •Myrick=Yeates-Vaughan House Murfreesboro Murfreesboro Historical District Murfreesboro Source: Department of Cultural Resources, Computer Printout July 1984. 28 TABLE BB UNREGISTERED HISTORIC SITES HERTFORD COUNTY 1985 AHOSKIE U. S. Post Office (Former) E. J. Gerock Dept. Store Ahoskie Baptist Church (Former) Masonic Lodge #98 Powell -Myers Farm Copeland Farm William H. Jernigan House Thomas Eley Farm Newsome-McGlohon House Andrews Turner House A. Andrew Newsome House Dempsey Smith House Ephriam Feldman House Richard Baker House Myers -Barnes House Jessie Richard Garrett House McGlohon-Mitchell House Hayes -Brett House Bank of Ahoskie Garrett Hotel W. D. Newsome Building Sawyer -Brown Furniture Co. Hertford Herald Building R. J. Baker Building *Capt. Langley Taylor House Gatling Plantation Site/ Cemetery The Little Court House The Shepherd Plantation Cedar Hill Farm (Warren Winborne House) E. L. Garrett Building Mitchell Furniture Co. Annex Newsome Grove Baptist Church James Riddick House Vinson House Jenkins House *John E. Mitchell Farm House - 303 N. Catherine Street Rev. James & Mary Sills House Faulk Alston House Issac Newsome House Downs-Phelps-Welch-Guttu House Howard -Barnes -Phelps House House - 231 S. Catherine Street John William Godwin House Cecil Wiggins House Whedbee Row Stephen Henry Leary House Parker -Powell Buildings Hotel Comfort Richard Theatre (Gallery Theatre) Mitchell Hotel *Overton House *Farmers Atlantic Bank COMO Hare Plantation Buckhorn Baptist Church The Vernon Place (Cowper Plantation) Maney-Riddick House *Hunting Wild (Bynum Place) 29 TABLE BB CONTINUED HARRELLSVILLE The Abner Harrell House Union Male Academy Site Harrellsville Methodist Church Former Methodist Parsonage Scull House Lewis House Bethlehem Baptist Church Moore House "Maple Lawn" Sharp House (Evergreen) Pruden House Lloyd House Cullens House Snipes -Vincent House *Rev. Craig House MENOLA MURFREESBORO *Liverman Farm Rose Bower House Redmond -Packer House Old Town Cemetery Kings Landing Site Original Murfreesboro House Site Trader -Carter House Indian -Queen Tavern Murphy-Spiers House Cowper -Thompson House Goodman -Jenkins House Boy Scout Welcome Center Southall -Neal -Worrell House Gingerbread House Morgan -Myrick House Winborne Law Office/Store William Rea Museum Rea -Lassiter House Jordan Buildings Peter Williams House Murfreesboro Law Office Wheeler -Beaman Store Southall -Daniels House Hertford Academy/Southall Cemetery Murfreesboro Municipal Building Doctor Gay House *Snipes House Pipkin-Harrell-Chitty House McDowell House Sewell Hotel E. T. Vinson House Lawrence Store The Walter Reed House Wise Store Joseph Rea House Yeates-Vaughan House/Law Office Lawrence -Barnes House Parker House Vaughan Store Captain L. C. Lawrence House D. A. Barne's House Harrell Store Carter-Deanes House Morgan-Beaman-Winborne House The Vinson House Meherrin Baptist Church Wise's Cemetery Wesleyan Female College Site Chowan College Harland House Masonic Hall Adkins House Old Methodist Church Site and Cemetery Mount Tarbor Baptist Church Spiers-Deans House 30 TABLE 8B CONTINUED PILAND'S CROSS ROADS *Barnes -Dean House WINTON *John Vann Place *Levi Askew House *Mitchell House * - On Study List for National Registration Certification. Source: Local Historical Societies 3) Areas of Resource Potential - There have been no poten- tially valuable mineral sites identified within the County, nor are there publicly owned forests, fish, and gamelands or other non -intensive recreation lands. Areas of prime farmland exist within Hertford County. These prime farmlands are found evenly throughout the County and are in use as cropland, pasture or woodland. Approximately 87,297 acres, or about thirty-six percent (36%) of the County is designated as prime farmland. Prime farmland soils, as defined by the United States Department of Agriculture, are soils that are best suited to producing food, seed, forage, fiber and oilseed crops. Such soils have properties that are favorable for the economic production of sustained high yields of crops. The soils only need to be treated and managed using acceptable farming methods. The moisture supply, of course, must be adequate, and the growing season has to be sufficiently long. Prime farmland soils produce the highest yields with minimal inputs of energy 31 and economic resources, and farming these soils results in the least damage to the environment. The importance of prime farmland to North Carolina and Hertford County is addressed in North Carolina Executive Order 96. This Executive Order, entitled Conservation of Prime Agricultural and Forest Lands, relates the State's policy that "...farm and time production are the highest priority uses of prime agricultural and forest lands within the County be developed. The primary purpose is to designate those areas and to minimize the loss of prime agricultural and forest lands. The policy does not apply to lands already committed to water impoundment, transportation, and urban development projects. Hertford County has a new Soil Survey, published in July 1984, which includes maps and tables showing prime agricultural and forest lands. The following map units, or soils, make up prime farmland in Hertford County. On some soils included in the list appropri- ate measures have been applied to overcome a hazard or limita- tion, such as flooding, wetness, or droughtiness. I TABLE 9 PRIME FARMLAND SOILS HERTFORD COUNTY 1984 Map Symbol Soil Name Characteristics Slope Acres AtA Altavista fine sandy loam 0-2% 1,390 0.6 CaA Caroline fine sandy loam 0-2% 4,359 1.9 CaB Caroline fine sandy loam 2-6% 1,728 0.8 CrA Craven fine sandy loam 0-1% 27,646 12.1 CrB Craven fine sandy loam 1-4% 18,377 8.1 ExA Exum very sandy loam 1-4% 735 0.3 GoA Goldsboro fine sandy loam 0-2% 5,625 2.5 NoA Norfolk foamy fine sand 0-2% 8,398 3.7 NoB Norfolk foamy fine sand 2-6% 9,666 4.2 NoC Norfolk foamy fine sand 6-10% 981 0.4 WkA Wickham sandy loam 0-2% 1,766 0.8 WkB Wickham sandy loam 2-6% 1,626 0_7 TOTALS 82,297 36.1 Source: Soil Survey of Hertford County, North Carolina; U. S. Dept. of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service, N. C. Dept. of Natural Resources and Community Development, N. C. Agricultural Extension Service, and N. C. Agricultural Research Service; July 1984. C. Constraints: Capacity of Community Facilities 1. Existing Water and Sewer Systems Analysis - Any intensive development, whether residential or industrial, should be preceded by the provision of water and sewer services. Local units of government can influence when and where development takes place by providing or denying these services. The provi- sion of such services by the community indicates that commu- nity's intention and commitment to development. �P Water System Ahoskie - Ahoskie is the major population center in Hertford County and is located in the south central portion of the County near the Bertie County line. Ahoskie has a population of 4,887 and is the distributor for the water system. Water is supplied by four (4) wells with a maximum daily capacity of 1,000,000 gallons per day (GPD). Water storage capacity consists of a 700,000 gallons elevated tank and a 100,000 gallons ground storage tank. Peak demand is 700,000 GPD. NOTE: Ahoskie has its own independent Land Use Plan and should be consulted for specific details on all public works systems. Cofield - Cofield is located in the southeastern portion of Hertford County and has a population of 465. Water is supplied by two (2) wells with a total pumping capacity of 288,000 GPD. The Cofield population requires approximately 24,000 PGD. Water service for Cofield and adjacent areas has been provided by the Cofield Water Corporation and not by the Town; however, the Town has completed arrangements for the purchase of the system and will begin operation on July 1, 1985. Harrellsville - Harrellsville is located northeast of Ahoskie and has a population of 151. Water is supplied by two (2) wells with a maximum daily capacity of 31,000 GPD. Water storage capacity is 25,000 gallons in a ground storage tank with a peak demand of 16,685 GPD. Murfreesboro - Murfreesboro is located in the northwestern part of Hertford County and has a population of 3,007. Water is 34 supplied by three (3) wells with a maximum daily capacity of 6,000,000 GPD. Water storage capacity is 600,000 gallons in an elevated tank with a peak demand of 700,000 GPD. Winton - Winton, with a population of 825, is the county seat of Hertford and is located in the northeastern section of the County. Water is supplied by two (2) wells with a maximum daily capacity of 500,000 GPD. Water storage capacity is 35,000 gallons in an elevated tank with a peak demand of 150,000 GPD. NOTE: Winton, like Ahoskie, has its own independent Land Use Plan which should be consulted for specific details relating to development matters. The private water systems in Hertford County are located in Union and Millennium. Union Utilities Corporation Water System serves the area around Roanoke-Chowan Technical College. The system consists of two (2) wells and an elevated storage tank with 50,000 gallons storage capacity. The Millennium Community Water Association is located in the southwestern section of Hertford County. This private water system consists of one (1) well with an estimated yield of 100,000 gallons per day. In summary, the water systems, public and private, in Hertford County serve an approximate population of 11,865 or 50.8% of the total County population. This leaves 49.2% of the County's population that relies on private wells for potable water. 35 Water quality and quantity is sufficient for present use and should be adequate well into the 1990s. Population increases to the year 1990 are anticipated to be only 360. Of this matter, only 198 are projected to reside in urban areas where water systems exist. At an average consumption of 100 gallons per person per day, 14,800 gallons will be needed to support the anticipated population increase that will reside within the County's six (6) towns. Sewer Systems - Ahoskie - Ahoskie presently operates a wastewater treatment system of the trickling filter type with a design capacity of 800,000 GPD. The Town is in Step II of an EPA "201" Wastewater Facilities Treatment Plan. This project is scheduled for completion in mid-1985. Cofield - Cofield does not have a wastewater system. The residents must utilize on -site methods for the disposal of wastewater. Harrellsville - Harrellsville does not maintain a wastewater system and presently relies on individual, on -site methods for the disposal of wastewater. Murfreesboro - The wastewater collection and treatment plant operated by the Town of Murfreesboro is of the land application type and has a capacity of 476,000 GPD with a 50,000 GPD available surplus. Expansion plans are non-existent since the system is new, having been completed in 1983. 36 . Winton - Winton operates a system similar to Murfreesboro's and has a capacity of 250,000 GPD. An expansion project is presently under construction and is scheduled for completion in mid-1985. 2. Existing School System Analysis The Hertford County Board of Education presently operates eight (8) schools within the County. Four (4) of these are elementary, two (2) are junior high and two (2) are senior high schools. The elementary schools are located in Ahoskie (2), Winton and Murfreesboro. The junior high schools are located in Ahoskie and Murfreesboro. The senior high schools are also sited in Ahoskie and Murfreesboro. The data in Table 10 describes the existing conditions of the Hertford County School System. The average daily enrollment is 4,287 students. Currently, a downward trend in enrollment is being experienced. Enrollment has decreased from 4,933 during the 1979-80 school year to a total of 4,287 during the current 1984-85 school year. This represents a 15.1% decrease over the past five years. A long-range study for future needs of the school system is in the planning process, and although the number of classrooms is adequate, the physical condition of some of the facilities must be addressed. Two schools are currently in the planning stages. 37 Post -secondary education in Hertford County is offered by Roanoke-Chowan Technical College near Union and Chowan College in Murfreesboro. Roanoke-Chowan Technical Institute was established in 1967 with a commitment to serve the people of the Roanoke-Chowan area. This area includes Bertie, Gates, Northampton and Hertford Counties. Phase I of the facility and development plan was completed in August 1975 with the completion of the Jernigan Education Center and the Vocational -Technical Building. Phase II of ,the development plan was finalized in May 1981 with the completion of the John W. Young, Jr. Center which contains shops and classrooms for drafting, light construction and welding. Phase III of the development plan will include con- struction of a facility to house new programs, completion of the mall area, parking lots and outdoor recreational facilities. In March 1981, Roanoke-Chowan Technical Institute's name was changed to Roanoke-Chowan Technical College. The College offers Associate Degree Curriculums in Architectural Technology and Drafting, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Specialist, Electronic Data Processing, Executive Secretarial, General Education, General Office Technology and Nursing Education options. Vocational Certificate and Diploma Curriculums are offered in Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration, Mechanical Drafting and Automotive Mechanics. Also offered are Cosmetology, Light Construction, Nurse's 38 Assistant and Welding. Other programs are Continuing Education, General Education Development and Adult Basic Education. Average enrollment at Roanoke-Chowan Technical College is 635 students. Chowan College in Murfreesboro was established in 1848. The College is a two-year co-educational college owned and supported by the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. The College offers instruction in the standard disciplines for students intending to pursue the baccalaureate degree in senior institu- tions and also provides vocational instruction for students who intend to end their formal education with one-year diplomas or two-year associate degrees. Approximately 85% of Chowan College graduates transfer to senior colleges. Chowan College initiated its development program in 1957 and since that time numerous buildings, renovations and expan- sions have been completed on the 136 year old campus. Projected expansions and renovations include Whitaker Library, Mixon Hall and the completed Graphic Communication Building. Some of the Associate Degree programs offered include Liberal Arts, Pre -Education, Pre -Religion, Pre -Law, Music, Pre -Forestry and Pre -Agriculture. Chowan College also has a Department of Business which offers various Associate Degrees such as Business Administration and Business Education, and Merchandise Management; and one-year Clerical and Secretarial 39 Diploma programs. The Department of Graphics Communications offers programs in Printing Technology, Photography and Typeset- ting Technology. The College has a current enrollment of approximately 11000 students. 40 TABLE 10 PUBLIC SCHOOL FACILITIES HERTFORD COUNTY 1984-1985 Student Number of Capacity Teachers Pupil/Teacher Grades School Range Enrollment Per School Ratio Taught Ahoskie Graded School 700-800 709 24 29.5 K-3 Ahoskie Middle School 836-950 628 21 29.9 6-8 Ahoskie High School N C. S. Brown (winton) 1,102-1,150 818 27 30.2 9-12 770-975 259 9 28.8 K-5 Murfreesboro Middle School 594-675 378 13 29.1 6-8 R. L. Vann (Ahoskie) 968-1,100 400 13 30.8 4-5 River View (Murfresboro) 638-725 625 24 26 K-5 Source: Hertford County School Superintendent's Office, 1985. Year Erected and Additions 1965-1959-1977 1916-1929-1940- 1946-1949-1950- 1959-1966 1972-1973-1979 1910-1926-1941- 1947-1951-1954- 1959 1936-1940-1942- 1951-1959-1970- 1972-1973-1979 1948-1956-1959- 1962 1946-1952-1956- 1959-1984 3. Existing Primary Road System Analysis The primary roads in Hertford County are US Routes 13, 158 and 258,.and NC Routes 11, 35, 42, 45, 305, 461 and 561. The primary roads are all two-lane and are designed for maximum capacity of 12,000 vehicles per day. percentage of utilization. TABLE 11 Table 11 denotes the UTILIZATION OF PRIMARY ROADS HERTFORD COUNTY 1983 Design Maximum Percent Road Capacity ADT* Utilization US 13 12000 9000 75.0 US 158 12000 9400 78.3 US 258 12000 6800, 56.6 US 11 12000 4300 35.8 US 35 12000 600 5.0 US 42 12000 3000 25.0 US 45 12000 2600 21.6 US 305 12000 1900 15.8 US 461 12000 900 7.5 US 561 12000 4100 34.0 *Maximum ADT counts were recorded at the following locations: US 13 - NC 561 US 158 - US 258 and NC it US 258 - Not recorded US 11 - Not recorded US 35 - From NC 305 US 42 - US 13 US 45 - Winton US 305 - NC 35 US 461 - NC 11 US 561 - US 13 Source: North Carolina Dept. of Transportation, Planning and Research Branch, 1984. North Carolina Dept. of Transportation, Mileage Inventory -Primary Hertford County, 1985. 42 D. Estimated Demand 1. Population and Economy As exhibited in Table 1, Hertford County has experienced a loss of 161 persons from 23,529 in 1970 to 23,368 in 1980. According to the most recent State Budget and Management population estimates, Hertford County had a slight population increase of 371 between the 1980 Census figure and the July 1, 1983 estimates. Table 12 indicates the 1985-1995 projected populations for Hertford'County and the six (6) towns within the County. TABLE 12 POPULATION PROJECTIONS HERTFORD COUNTY 1985-1995 Harrells- Murfrees- County Ahoskie Cofield Como ville boro Winton Total 1985 41969 473 95 142 3,076 82B 23,663 1986 4,971 474 95 142 3,078 829 23,678 1987 4,974 474 95 142 3,080 829 23,691 1988 4,977 474 95 142 3,081 830 23,704 1989 4,980 474 95 142 3,083 830 23,718 1990 4,983 475 95 142 3,085 831 23,728 1991 4,984 475 95 142 3,086 831 23,744 1992 4,984 475 95 142 3,087 831 23,756 1993 4,988 475 95 143 3,088 832 23,770 1994 4,991 475 95 143 3,090 832 23,782 1995 4,993 476 95 143 3,091 832 23,776 Source: Mid -East Commission County Population Projection (1985, 1990, 1995) North Carolina Population Pro.iections Office of State Budget and Management, 1984 Edition 43 According to population projections, the County is projected to increase by only 113 persons between 1985 and 1995. This represents less than a half percent growth during a ten-year period. The Hertford County Planning Board and County Commis- sioners feel that this conservative increase will be compatible with present trends. Assuming that Ahoskie and Murfreesboro represent the only urban areas in the County, it appears that 34% of the 1985 projected population will be urban and 66% rural. These percent- ages are projected to be the same for the 1995 and were the same for 1980. These figures indicate the slow growth of the County numerically, as well as the lack of change in the rural - urban mix. A comparison of 1985 projections with 1995 projections are found in Table 13 indicates that Hertford County will have a decrease of 449 school age children (ages 5-19) by year 1995. This represents a decrease of 8.6%. This comparison also notes an increase in the percentage of the population aged 65 and over by 17%, or a total of 554 senior citizens. This represents the largest change of any age group. Therefore, the trends could indicate less school attendance, less need for active type recreation, and a significant increase in services for the aged. 44 TABLE 13 PROJECTED POPULATION BY AGE HERTFORD COUNTY 1985 and 1995 AGE 1985 1995 CHANGE 0- 4 1,759 1,590 -10.6% 5-19 5,691 51242 - 8.6% 20-64 13,036 13,213 + 1.4% 65 and up 3,177 3,731 +17.4% Source: North Carolina Population Projections Office of State Budget and Management, 1984 Edition The County's economic base has been agriculture -forestry oriented. This is expected to remain relatively stable; however, increases in forestry related operations are expected to be more significant than agriculture operations. It appears that no major shifts in crop types are anticipated and a fairly healthy economic picture is projected. Hertford County's Industrial Development Office predicts new industry will locate in Hertford County and an expansion of existing industry will occur. The predicted new and expanding industry is expected to provide employment for some of the 4.5% unemployed. The County has recently committed $105,000 of its Clean Water Bill money to provide sewer lines to the industrial park. 45 2. Future Land Needs The Land Use Guidelines give local governments an opportunity to estimate the need for residential structures and related services. These can also give development in places that are suitable. By 1990, Hertford County is projected to have an average household size of 3.56 persons. By dividing the projected household size into the estimated population increase, it can be seen that approximately 101 additional residences will have to be provided within the County. Because adequate land for central water and sewer services is already provided in three (3) of the six (6) municipalities in Hertford County, no other land will be needed. It is anticipated that Hertford County's future land develop- ment needs will continue to be centered in and around its incorporated and unincorporated areas. Subdivision regulations are in effect which govern the density to which dwellings must adhere for wells and septic tank standards. Even through Hertford County with its 356 square miles is a sparsely populated county, it is projected to have a population density of 66.6 persons per square mile in 1990. This is an increase of 1 person per square mile over U. S. Census population density figure. 46 3. Community Facilities Demand Hertford County will be able to absorb the projected popula- tion, and more, with no constraints placed on any existing facilities. As previously noted, the Hertford County School System has suffered a loss in enrollment and the system will not be adversely impacted by the projected population increase. It is estimated that no additional educational facilities will be needed; however, the replacement of buildings will be necessary and two are on the drawing board at this time. Hertford County has more than an adequate supply of ground- water; therefore, the water supply should not provide any restraint to future growth. The three (3) wastewater treatment facilities that are currently operational in the County are either in Step II of the EPA 201 Facilities Plan; are under construction, and are sche- duled for completion by mid-1985; or are new systems already completed. The present road system appears to be adequate to accommodate the projected population increases to 1995; however, US 13 and 158 are being utilized between 75% and 80% of capacity currently. E. Summary of Data Collection and Analysis Data for the Land Use Plan were assembled from a variety of sources as indicated below. 47 The current Population and Economy statistics were obtained by examining present trends in Hertford County's population and economy since 1980. Demographics data from the U. S. Census were used heavily, as were discussions with the North Carolina Department of Administration personnel concerning population estimates. Conversations were also held with Hertford County Economic Development personnel for the present-day economic representation in the County. Existing Land Use information was obtained by conversations with County personnel and soil scientists, studying field surveys, and conducting on -site investigations. Current Plans, Policies and Regulations information was gained from sources such as the North Carolina Department of Transporta- tion, the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Community Development, the Hertford County Planning Commission and the Hertford County Manager's Office. Constraints: Land Suitability information was obtained from the 1980 Land Use Plan and on -site investigations. Natural and man-made hazards were located and areas with soil limitations were identified and mapped. Constraints: Capacity of Community Facilities information was obtained from the North Carolina Division of Human Resources, 48 the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Community Development Water Quality Division, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, the North Carolina Department of Transpor- tation and the Hertford County School Superintendent's Office. Future Land Needs information.was developed by examining past land development trends and population projections. The informa- tion was also developed with Hertford County personnel, the Hertford County Department of Natural Resources and Community Development. Community Facilities Demand data was developed by examining the present facilities, such as wastewater facilities, water supply, schools, and roads in comparison to the projected population increases to 1990. Local town historic associations were contacted for informa- tion about unregistered historic places. The North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources provided data on registered sites as well as archeological sites. F. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS FROM DATA SUMMARY Delineated below are the primary conclusions found in the data collection and analysis sections of the Plan. 1. Present Conditions a. Population and Economy 1) Hertford County has experienced an increase in population since 1980. Hertford County's 1980 49 Census population was 23,368, but the July 19e3 estimate is 23,739, for a gain of 371 persons. It must also be noted that future estimates indicate a decrease in population through 1985, then a slight annual increase through 1995. 2) Current population trends reflect a decrease in school age population through the year 2000. 3) Current population trends also indicate an increase in the 65 and above age group which would imply a need for more services for the aged. 4) Hertford County's economy continues to be primarily agricultural -forestry oriented. 5) Since 1980, 925 industrial jobs have been created from expansion of current industry or creation of new industry in the County. Perdue (Poultry Products) has had a 70% increase in jobs since its opening in 1974. b) Existing Land Use 1) There has been very little change in land use patterns since 1980. 2) An increase in urban built-up and annexations have occurred since 1980 in Ahoskie and Murfrees- boro. _ 50 3) The County population continues to be grouped in and around the communities and this is expected to continue. 4) Hertford County has no significant land use compatibility problems. 5) Areas likely to experience major land use change by 1995 area: Murfreesboro (Annexation), Winton (Industrial Park) and Ahoskie (natural growth). 6) Hertford County has three (3) areas of environ- mental concern which consist of estuarine waters, public trust waters and estuarine shorelines. c. Current Plans, Policies and Regulations Hertford County already has plans and policies in place that affect land development in the County, and state enabling legislation is such that the County can adopt additional legislation when it deems it necessary. 2. Constraints: Land Suitability a. Hertford County has few man-made constraints, but does have physical constraints; such as wetness, flooding, groundwater depletion and pollution of the Chowan River. 51 b. Hertford County has several types of fragile areas. These fragile areas are the estuarine waters and shorelines of the Chowan and Meherrin Rivers and tributaries, public trust waters, complex natural areas (several wooded swamps) located along the Chowan River shoreline, and historical cultural resources. C. Hertford County has two types of areas with resource potential. These areas are prime farmland and forest lands. 3. Constraints: Capacity of Community Facilities a. Groundwater supply in Hertford County, while de- crease, does not present a constraint for develop- ment. The water systems provide adequate quantity and quality of water. b. Some municipal wastewater facilities within the county are in need of improvement or are undergoing improvement, while others are new facilities. These improvements provide more design capacity and better effluent treatment methods. c. The school system does not present a constraint for development. d. Hertford County's present road system is not being utilized to full design capacity, and hence it will not be a constraint for development. 52 4. Estimated Demand a. Population and Economy 1) Hertford County is expected to have a population increase of 408 persons by 1995. 2) Hertford County will continue to be a predomi- nantly rural oriented area. 3) Hertford County's economy will continue to be agricultural -forestry oriented. 4) There will be additional industrial development and expansion 1995. b. Future Land Needs 1) Hertford County will not have a land availability problem by 1995 for development; however, there is potential for farm and forest lands around the six (6) towns to be converted to non-agri- cultural and non -forestry related uses. 2) Hertford County's future high density land development will continue to be in and around its towns. 3) Building data indicate that 73.9% of the County's building permits for years 1980-19B3 have been issued in the towns of Ahoskie, Murfreesboro and Winton. This is likely to shift more public service demands toward these towns. Further conversation with the Hertford County Building 53 Inspector's Office indicates that the trend is toward increased building activity. c. Community Facilities Demand 1) Hertford County has an ample supply of water for the 1995 projected population. Localized groundwater depletions are not anticipated to be a problem. 2) Hertford County's municipalities are in different phases of EPA "201" planning, and all planning and construction should be completed prior to 1995. 3) Hertford County's School System and road network will be adequate for 1995. 54 III. POLICY STATEMENTS The setting of goals, objectives, policy statements and implementation procedures are the most essential elements in any developmental plan. The formulation of goals and objectives should reflect sound planning principles and most importantly, express the values of an area's residents. Thus, the declaration of a community's values sets the tone for the design of the development plan. During this ten (10) year planning period, the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) gives Hertford County the opportunity to address land use issues which impact on Resource Protection; Resource Production and Management; Economic and Community Development; Continued Public Participation and Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery and Evacuation Plans. Some of these issues were of concern in the 1980 Plan but will be fine tuned again in this current plan. The Policy Statements are the results of recommendations, local input, and the Planning Board's experience in Hertford County's needs. These statements define the problem or opportu- nity, possible alternatives for action, the selected alterna- tive(s) and the means to implement those alternatives. It must be noted that some issues are of such great importance that there can be no alternatives; therefore, policy or policies have been set and are being implemented. 55 A. Resource Protection 1. Natural Resources a. Hertford County has an abundant supply of natural resources. Forestry and agriculture are major forces in the local economy and is the dominant land use in the County. These resources, properly utilized and managed, can continue to infuse dollars into the local economy, provide employment, safeguard environment, and ensure the retention of the rural.quality of life in Hertford County. Hence, Resource Protection will be a primary issue facing the County in the next decade. b. With natural resources being the economic main stay for the County there are no real alternatives expect to provide some type of protection for these re- sources. The County could attempt to influence how these resources will be controlled in a severely restrictive manner; however, such intense action would be bitterly opposed by the independent and individualistic nature of the citizens. The County, expressing concern over the future of agriculture, could to initiate some transitional type activities within the agricultural community. However, again this would meet with resistance and resentment. 56 C. The course of action the County has chosen is to support the state's regulatory position regarding the protection of prime agricultural farm land from urban type development and industrial development. d. The County discourages the use of such land from any activity that would destroy the prime land and take it out of production. This policy will be implement- ed through this Land Use Plan Update and the Zoning Ordinance. 2. Fragile Areas a. Along with Hertford County's valuable agricultural and forest lands, other areas exist that are in need of protection because of their unique or fragile en- vironment. These areas include lands adjacent to the Chowan, Meherrin and part of the Wiccacon Rivers which are considered flood prone areas and should be protected from massive urban type development. The wetlands (marshes and freshwater swamps) located along the rivers offer quality wildlife and water- fowl habitat as well as provide flood control, water filtering and nutrient uptake functions and should be protected. The soil structure with its massive prime agricultural land characteristics predominanting 57 W, the western half of the County and the sensitive areas consisting of the Roanoke -Cape Fear, and Dorovan-Dare-Johnson types which are found along streams and rivers must be considered. Another important segment of fragile areas are the cultural and historic sites located throughout the County. Many historic preservation groups currently exist and are active in restoration projects particularly within some town limits. Hertford County is rich in historically significant sites and structures. Nominations to the National Register for Historic Places has been an ongoing project. The value of these areas to the County is locally determined, and protective measures come from the local area. b. As with natural resources, these fragile areas are of such importance that no alternatives exist except to offer protection for the sites and lands to some degree. The County could impose severe restrictions thereby eliminating any possible use of the areas. This action would be too extreme. On the other hand, the County could impose such lenient regula- tions as to jeopardize the future of fragile areas. The state CAMA permit regulations would not allow this to happen to coastal areas and wetlands, and J local citizens would not allow such permissive actions with regard to historical and cultural sites. C. The County policy is to strictly enforce the CAMA regulations and uphold the permitting process for fragile areas. The Zoning Ordinance also makes provision for the protection of historical and cultural sites by allowing the establishment of Historical Districts. The County also supports the activities of the historical societies in the towns where such organizations exist. These groups of citizens are very active and are very protective of the historical sites. 3. Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Needs a. This topic is dealt with in great detail in Section E of this Chapter (p. 74). Inasmuch as the County is not one of the state's designated hurricane counties, this policy does not need to be deeply detailed. b. The County could commission a study on the topic either by their own Planning Commission or by an outside agency. This alternative is unnecessary and could be costly if done by the private sector. The County could take the position that, although not a designated hurricane county, they nevertheless wish 59 to impose severe restrictions of shoreline and wet- lands areas. This, too, may be unnecessary and un- reasonably restrictive. C. The action the County has chosen is to wait for the hurricane plan to be completed before any policy is set. This plan is due for completion in 1986. d. When the final policy is determined, the County will rely upon their Emergency Management Coordinator to carry it out. 4. Potable Water Supply a. Protection of a potable water supply within the County is of major concern due to the high water table and sitings of septic tanks. While the County is currently experiencing no shortage of potable water, nor is a shortage predicted in the future, this resource must nonetheless be protected. b. A policy could be enforced that would closely monitor the type and amount of withdrawal that would come about by new industry. A policy could also be considered regarding protection from contaminates that may infiltrate the water supply. c. The County has determined that their water supply P will be protected and has supported state standards regarding groundwater quality. CL7 d. Implementation will come about through the enforce- ment of their zoning ordinance, building codes and Health Department regulations. 5. Package Treatment Plants a. Soil suitability for septic tank use within the County is primarily unsatisfactory and, without proper planning and design, can present a signi- ficant health problem. Unsatisfactory performance of septic tank absorption fields can pollute ground- water supplies. Soils with limitations for septic tank use exist within the Winton and Cofield areas. The restrictive features range from severe wetness and flooding to moderate wetness. b. The County could encourage the use of waterless package treatment systems to protect their ground- water supply from possible pollution. c. The policy of Hertford County is to use ordinances and regulations already ih place to implement the policy. d. Once again implementation will take place through proper enforcement of county and state ordinances and regulations respectively. 61 6.' Stormwater Run -Off Because of the topography of the majority of the County, stormwater run-off is not too much of a problem. Ahoskie does; however, experience minor flooding in certain portions of the town during heavy rain storms. Currently the County has no policy on this issue. 7. Marinas and Floating Homes At this time Hertford County does not have any marinas and there are no known plans for marina develop- ment. The same is true of floating homes. Therefore, the County has no specific policy or ordinance address- ing the issue. If, however, such development should occur some regulations are in place in the zoning ordi- nance and building code that would provide controls. B. Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas Currently there are almost three dozen industries located in Hertford County. These businesses employ approximately 25% of the labor force and constitute a major economic factor for the County. These industries present no known adverse impacts on fragile areas; how- ever, as a means of protection for these areas, the County requires that each industry prepare an environment impact statement or environmental assessment. 62 9. Sound and Estuarine System Islands Development This issue does not relate to Hertford County in a direct way and no policy has been established. B. Resource Production and Management 1. Productive Agricultural Lands a. The importance of agriculture to Hertford County cannot be over -emphasized. More than 58,000 acres of land (25.6% of the County's total acreage) is devoted to farm use. The County, through the up- date soil survey, has identified and mapped its prime agricultural land. b. As stated earlier, the County could adopt a policy that would be severely restrictive; however, they have not felt the necessity of such action. C. The County has chosen to support the state's regulatory position on this issue. d. The County will utilize ordinances now in place; such as their zoning ordinance and this land use plan update to monitor and protect valuable agri- cultural land. The County Extension Service will provide continual guidance with this. 63 2. Commercial Forest Lands The major land use within Hertford County is forest land which accounts for 65.5%, or almost 150,000 acres, of the total land. Of this amount approximately acres is commercial forest land. The County, through the updated soil survey, had identified its forest lands. The County's position relative to commercial forest lands is that no problems now exist, nor are any antici- pated; therefore, no action is required. 3. Mineral Production Areas There are no such areas within Hertford County and no policy has been developed on this issue. 4. Commercial and Recreational Fisheries Commercial fishing activities are limited in number and seasonal in nature. One commercial enterprise, located near Winton and another near Murfreesboro operate during the herring season. Other fishing activities are individual type commercial ventures and operate on a very small scale. Recreational fishing is wide spread throughout the County on rivers and ponds. Bass fishing tournaments are scheduled regularly on the Chowan River. The County has established no policy on this issue. 64 5. Off -Road Vehicles The rise of off -road vehicles as a sport has created a minor problem in Hertford County; however, no policy has been established addressing the issue. 6. Residential and Commercial Land Development According to the U. S. Census Bureau statistics for 1970 and 1980 and the North Carolina population projec- tion, Hertford County declined less than one percent between 1970 and 1980, and can anticipate an increase of about one and one half percent during the coming ten year period. With this kind of static growth the amount of residential development has been minimal, and a pro- jection of 101 new residences will be required to satisfy growth needs. Commercial development has followed the trend of the population within Hertford County and growth has been steady but slow. In the two largest towns in the County business license data shows .that 492 licenses were issued in 1984 as compared to about 425 licenses in 1980. This represents an increase of. about 30% per year. The County feels that inasmuch as residential and commercial land development has been, and is projected to continue to be, slow, no policy is needed other than the enforcement of current County ordinances and codes. 65 7. Peat or Phosphate Mining No such mining occurs in Hertford County; therefore, no policy has been developed on the issue. B. Industrial Impacts As stated previously, industry in Hertford County accounts for approximately 25% of the total labor force and is a major factor in the County's economy; however, the impacts on most resources such as agriculture, forestry and other natural resources are minimal. The industrial impact on human resources is a different matter and is very great. With the decline in agri- culture -related jobs the County looks more and more to industrial jobs for financial stability. C. Economic and Community Development 1. Types and Locations of Industries Desired a. Economic and Community Development were major issues during the last update of the CAMA Land Use Plan and are of primary interest today. Since Hertford County is an economically underdeveloped County, there is an obvious need for more economic develop- ment. The County as a whole feels that there is not enough economic development within the County, and that a concerted effort must be made to promote and 66 attract new industry that is in its own best inter- ests. The County also feels that more industry will improve the quality of life for all its citizens. The County wishes to attract non-polluting industry. b. The County would benefit from the development of a detailed Economic Development Plan. This would con- sist of a well thought-out strategy for encouraging the enlargement of existing industry as well as the attracting of new industry. c. The County strongly supports those organizations seeking to strengthen development and provide addi- tional jobs. The County also has an Economic Development Planner to work towards such improvement. d. As a protective measure, all new industry locating in the County must file an environmental assessment or impact statement, and new industry locating in the County will be sited in the industrial zones. 2. Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development Organizations like the Industrial Development Com- mission, concerned citizens such as the Committee of 100 and Murfreesboro's Industrial Committee, which coordi- nates activities through the Hertford County Industrial Development Commission, have been created and are de- voted to attracting industry to the County. The local 67 governing bodies have made, and continue to make, efforts at obtaining Federal and State funding to pro- vide needed services. The County's policy is to do what it can to provide such services. Recently they set aside a large portion of their Clean Water Bill money to extend utility ser- vices to and within their Industrial Park. 3. Urban Growth Patterns Desired For Hertford County urban growth patterns relate to towns with populations from just under 100 (Como) to just under 5,000 (Ahoskie). Statistics shows that what growth there has been appears to have been drawn to the areas in, and immediately adjacent to, the towns of Ahoskie, Murfreesboro and Winton. Such continued development will be encouraged for maximum utilization of public facilities and utility services. 4. Redevelopment of Developed Areas Hertford County does not feel that redevelopment of developed areas is an issue due to a lack of density re- lated (population) problems. The County, however, re- cognizes that improvement of housing conditions is an issue and should take a leadership role in upgrading the housing stock. The County's policy has been, and 68 will continue to be, one that seeks out every grant opportunity to providing funds for neighborhood improve- ments and total community revitalization. 5. Commitment to State and Federal Programs Hertford County has a deep concern with regard to state and federal programs dealing with erosion control and highway improvements. The topography throughout much of the County is conducive to good erosion control, and highway improvements are particularly of concern in areas where peak traffic loads create a burden on the system. On the other hand, the County is not heavily involved with issues related to public access, port facilities, dredging and military facilities. A recent concern has arisen over military plans to use Hertford County airspace as a Military Operating Area (MOA). While supporting all state and federal regulations, the County hasno additional policies related to these issues. 6. Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment Projects Hertford County is not involved in such projects; therefore, no policies have been set on these issues. 69 7. Energy Facility Siting Hertford County is not involved in any such activ- ity; therefore, no policy has been set. B. Tourism, Beach and Waterfront Access The northeastern section of North Carolina is a tourist's paradise with regard to Colonial history and architecture. Tourism is a big business in select towns such as Murfreesboro; however, County -wide emphasis is not as strong. This is probably due to the heavy emphasis placed on the region -wide Historic Albemarle Tour program which encompasses 18 counties in northeast- ern North Carolina. Hertford County does boast numerous historical, cultural and archeological sites and some towns have local annual festivals. Beach and waterfront access are not issues for Hertford County; therefore, no policies have been set other than zoning restrictions and a strict enforcement of CAMA regulations. 9. Types, Densities and Location of Anticipated Residential Development Inasmuch as Hertford County's projected population increase by 1990 is 360 persons, representing 101 addi- tional residences required for this growth; and inasmuch as current utility services near the present population 70 centers are more than adequate to handle a far greater increase than is expected; the County has felt no need to set policy regarding this issue. 10. Miscellaneous Issues With this planning process, the single biggest issue facing Hertford County is the possibility of becoming a bedroom community for Tidewater Virginia within the next ten (10) to fifteen (15) years. The trend has been est- ablished in the noted daily commuter employment in the marine industries located in southwest Virginia. In preparation of the bedroom community role, the County should begin to make plans to ensure that ordinances and regulations are developed and in effect to insure that hodge-podge residential development does not take place. Another issue that should be addressed is a County- wide water system. The Planning Board recognizes that in order to have growth and development such a water system is an essential part of the development process. A third issue concerns the upgrading of educational facilities. Although the school age population and school enrollment is presently declining, there remains a need for updating education facilities within the County. The oldest facility within the system is 71 approximately 75 years old. There have been additions to existing facilities yet there is still a paramount need for replacement of antiquated facilities. D. Continuing Public Participation 1. Public Education Public participation is an important element of the planning process. Because of Hertford County's long history of planning, the public participation process within the County is an ongoing, viable process. The County's Planning Board, being an extension of the County Commissioners, is charged with the responsibility of keeping the public informed on all relevant planning issues. a. Public participation is an important element of the planning process. Because of Hertford County's long history of planning, the public participation pro- cess within the County is an ongoing, viable process. The County's Planning Board, being an extension of the County Commissioners, is charged with the responsibility of keeping the public informed on all relevant planning issues. b. All Planning Board meetings are open to the general public and provide the opportunity for public involvement. The County has developed a "Citizen 72 Participation and Education" packet which addresses quality of life issues, environmental issues, indus- trial development and land use planning issues. c. During this update process citizen input was request- ed, received, analyzed and incorporated into this document. A list of activities can be found on page 97. 2. Continued Public Participation Continuing public participation in the planning process is encouraged by periodically administering questionnaires to residents to gauge their opinions about land use issues and keeping the pubic aware of activities and upcoming action via the media. a. Continuing public participation in the planning process is encouraged by periodically administering questionnaires to residents to gauge their opinions about land use issues. b. The Planning Board could consider developing a "speakers bureau" to speak to civic organizations about planning issues. C. The Planning Board. and County Commissioners will. place news items in local papers concerning each Planning Board meeting. News items on local radio stations concerning planning issues are to be en- couraged. 73 E. Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster, Post -Disaster Recovery and Evacuation Plans The Coastal Resources Commission, in consultation with local governments, has specified that certain issues be addressed in the Hertford County Land Use Plan Update. These issues include: Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies, Post -Disaster Recovery Plan and an analysis of the local Evacuation Plan. 1. Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies Hertford County contains a moderate range of storm hazard areas. These include Areas of Environmental Con- cern such as: Estuarine Waters, Public Trust Waters, and Estuarine Shoreline. Still other hazard areas in- clude: flood hazard zones and special flood hazard areas as noted on Hertford County's Flood Hazard Bound- ary Map and the Hazard Areas. Map, 19e5 located on -the back cover. a. Estuarine Waters are defined as a hatchery for many forms of aquatic life, and the Chowan and Meherrin Rivers within Hertford County are considered Estu- arine Waters. b. Public Trust Waters are those waters whose benefits belong to the public whether for commercial or re- creational uses. The Chowan, Meherrin, Wiccacon Rivers and tributaries have been designated as Public Trust Waters. 74 C. Estuarine Shorelines are defined as non -ocean shorelines which are especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding or other adverse effects of wind and water and are intimately connected to the est- uary. In Hertford County, the estuarine shoreline encompasses the area from the mean high water level along the Chowan and Meherrin Rivers for a distance of 75 feet landward. This flood -plain consists of a tract beginning above SR 1450 and along the Chowan and Wiccacon Rivers to a point adjacent to SR 1175 and the Meherrin Rivers. d. Special Flood Hazard Areas are mapped by HUD in con- junction with the National.Flood Insurance Program. Areas designated in Flood Hazard AECs are "V" zones (flood prone areas susceptible to high velocity wave action.) and "A" zones (areas subject to little or no wave action but within the 100 year flood area). All mapped areas of Hertford County are within "A" zones. No towns within the County have been mapped but all areas along rivers and tributaries have been designated as "A" zones. within the County. An inventory of the existing uses of the land within the hazard areas indicates that the majority of uses is devoted to forestry and temporary fishing camps. There is one area along 75 the Chowan River that is considered to be in a flood prone area according to HUD Map, page 3, panel number 370130-0003A. This area has approximately 50 summer and permanent residences and being in the flood prone area would be affected in the event of storm surge. The tax base of the property has been determined to be in excess of six -hundred thousand dollars. No one in the County participates in the flood insurance except the Town of Ahoskie. Type types of risks apparent in each of the hazard areas would be risks associated with high winds and losses attributed to the wind erosion factor and flooding. Monetary value of losses that might be sustained in each of the hazard areas are listed in the following table. TABLE 12 TAX VALUE OF PROPERTY IN HAZARD AREAS FLOOD PLAIN TAX AREA TAX MAP TAX VALUE I 26 $ 66,B55.00 II 45 95,511.70 56 273,096.00 57 58,455.50 III 58 4,655.00 59 4,280.00 72 38,046.00 86 70,411.00 TOTAL VALUE $611,340.20 Source: Hertford County Tax Supervisor, October 1984. 76 The Zoning Ordinance for Hertford County now prohibits any new construction or reconstruction to take place along the river banks. The entire County is susceptible to the damaging forces of high winds. Recognizing this factor, Hertford County should take action to ensure that, in the event of a storm, damage is minimized to both public and private facilities. To reduce damage to public facilities and structures, Hertford County will make future decisions concerning these public investments so as to reduce the possibility of damage or destruction by hurricane or other storm forces. All future capital investments within the County will be made with the storm threat in mind. Damage to private property can be reduced by implementing programs and policies which limit location and emphasize con- struction standards for new development. Hertford County has adopted a range of policies and regulations which include the county zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, and CAMA minor use permits. These policies and regulations, if enforced, can limit damage to private facilities in the event of a major storm. The conclusion is that Hertford County is doing a good job in its endeavor to mitigate future storm damages. 2. Post -Disaster Recovery Plan In accordance with the Land Use Planning Guidelines, reference to the Hertford County Disaster Relief and 77 Assistance Plan and Emergency Management's responsibili- ties are cited. "Annex H-Disaster Assistance Program Summary: of the Hertford County Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan notes services and assistance available to local governments to aid in immediate clean-up and removal of debris. This initial phase of the Recovery Plan is designated as the emergency period and is devoted to restoring public health and safety, assess- ing the nature and extent of storm damage, and qualify- ing for state and federal assistance. The second phase is designated as the restoration period and is devoted to restoring community facilities, utilities and essen- tial businesses. The final phase is the replacement reconstruction period during which the community is rebuilt. Reconstruction over a longer period of time should be guided by policies which prevent reconstruction of structures in high storm hazard areas. Reconstruction, when permitted, will be in conformance with existing building code provisions. Local policy should also be directed toward limiting or prohibiting the extension or reconstruction of public facilities or structures in high hazard areas. (This is addressed in the Hertford County Zoning Ordinance). 78 Hertford County Commissioners should consider appointing a "recovery task force". The "recovery task force" consists of the Damage Assessment Team, County Manager, County Health Director and the City Managers if the incident occurs within the city limits. These people will be utilized in the recovery phase in accordance with the Hertford County Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan. The Recovery Task Force would serve in an advisory role to the County Commissioners and would resolve policy issues arising after a storm disaster. A. Guidelines for Post -Disaster Repair and Reconstruction 1. Timing and Completion of Damage Assessments Damage assessment timing and completion will be conducted in accordance with "Annex F - Damage Assessment Plan" of the Hertford County Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan. Disaster assessment will begin as soon as safety conditions permit and will continue until all suspect areas have been covered. Damage assessment operations should take place during the emergency period. This is to ensure that emergency operations to restore public health and safety features of the County are implemented. 79 2. Imposition of Temporary Development Moratorium Imposition of a temporary development moratorium is a useful tool to be implemented by the County immediately following a disaster. This morato- rium would permit the County to deal with more pressing.community recovery and reconstruction issues without having to devote its time and resources to reviewing new development proposals. Minor repairs, such as replacing doors and win- dows, should be allowed. Residents should be informed that any moratorium imposed is in the best interest of the overall community. 3. Development Standards for Repairs and Reconstruction Repairs and reconstruction should continue to conform to all ordinances and regulations pertaining to building standards. Presently, these include portions of the State Building Code, CAMA major and minor permit standards, the local zoning ordinances and other policies adopted in the Storm Mitigation Plan. 4. Schedule for Staging and Permitting Repairs and Reconstruction The Department of Emergency Management Area "A" Coordinator has stipulated that reconstruction for essential services (power, water, telephone, M streets and bridges) should be undertaken first, then minor repairs, major repairs and last, new development. Emphasis then should be placed on repair or reconstruction of infrastructure for the long-term rather than duplicating what was there before the storm. Timing of repairs and reconstruction should realistically be determined by the extent of damage and the type of service requiring repair or reconstruction. 5. Implementation of Recovery Task Force Policies The Hertford County Commissioners are designated as the local legislative body in charge of implementing the policies and procedures outlined in this Post -Disaster Recovery Plan. The Com- missioners are empowered to delegate duties to other agencies of local government to implement these policies and procedures. b. Repair or Replacement Policy for Public Utilities and Facilities Hertford County's policy is to repair and rebuild essential service facilities first (electricity, water and sewer). The next prior- ity would be repair of other public facilities necessary for shelter. Minor repairs are to be permitted next with major repairs being permitted last. 3. Analysis of Hurricane Evacuation Plan An analysis of Hertford County's Hurricane Evacuation Plan reveals an excellent "Evacuation to Shelter Plan", but the issue of evacuation from one locale to another, if the situation arises, needs to be addressed. Because of no past history involving evacuation in Hertford County we feel this is no real threat to the County. Should the need arise, people would be evacuated to Bertie, Martin and Pitt Counties. Highways 13, 11 and 45 are the evacuation routes to these counties. Since the distance be- tween Hertford County and the surrounding counties is so short, we feel time estimates are not neces- sary. Transportation could be arranged by local resources (school buses), the private sector and from the state if necessary. Hertford County is considered a safe place during a hurricane and would act as a host county for our coastal counties. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, Corp of Engineers and the State Emergency Management Office will complete in 1986 an analysis of the hurricane situation in North Carolina. Thir- teen counties have been designated as hurricane counties and Hertford County is not one of them. 82 Our potential problem arises with the evacuation of Virginia residents evacuating from the Norfolk and Virginia Beach area to North Carolina. We are work- ing with agencies in coming up with agreements between the two states. F. Proposed Five -Year Work Program This Land Use Plan has detailed a number of specific programs that the County should perform during the planning period. In view of the fact that there is no full-time planning staff, some programs and studies may have to be contracted out. 1986 - 1987 1. Formulate a detailed Capital Improvements Program. 2. Do a study of and revision to the County's Zoning Ordinance and enact amendments as needed. Update zoning map as needed. 3. Create a task force to study the feasibility of implementing a Hazardous Waste Ordinance. Since rural counties are often the recipient of hazardous waste sites, efforts should be made to minimize the effects of such a siting. 83 1987 - 1988 1. In conjunction with the Soil Conservation Service, monitor the effects of soil erosion and implement pro- grams to minimize the loss of topsoil from prime farm- land. 2. Continue efforts to clean-up the Chowan River. Restora- tion of the river is of major environmental concern. 3. Study the Hurricane Plan to determine Hertford County's relationship to it and possible actions needed by the County for implementation. 1988 - 1989 1. Request a detailed update study of the Chowan River to determine results of nutrient sensitive status activi- ties, and to determine source points and non -source points of pollution. 1989 - 1990 1. Monitor population growth to prepare for additional services and residential development if needed. 2. Prepare for next update of the Land Use Plan. 84 1990 - 1991 1. Continue to monitor current plan and begin consideration for necessary changes in forthcoming update. 85 IV. LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM The Coastal Resources Commission has developed a land classification system as a means of assisting in the implementa- tion of the policies adopted in the Policy State section. By denoting land classes on a map, Hertford County and its citizens can specify those areas where certain policies (local, state •and federal) will apply. Although particular areas are outlined on a classification map it should be understood that land classification is merely a tool to help implement policies and not a definitive regulatory mechanism. The land classification system provides a framework to be used by local government to identify the future use of all lands in the County. The designation of land classes allows the local government to clarify their policy statements as to where and to what density they want development to occur, and where they want to conserve natural and cultural resources by guiding growth. The following is a description of Hertford County's Land Classification System utilizing the five general land classes of: Developed, Transition, Community, Rural and Conservation: (See Land Classification Map). A. Developed 1. Purpose. The purpose of the developed class is to provide for continued intensive development and re- development of existing cities and towns. 86 2. Description. Areas to be classified developed include lands currently developed for urban purposes, at or approaching a density of 500 dwellings per square mile, that are provided with usual municipal or public services including at least public water, sewer, recreational facilities, police and fire protection. 3. Discussion. Hertford County is estimated to have a population increase of 408 by 1995. Most of this popu- lation is expected to center in and around its incorpo- rated towns. Thus, developed areas in Hertford County are identified as Ahoskie, Cofield, Como, Harrellsville, Murfreesboro and Winton. B. Transition 1. Purpose. The purpose of the transition class is to pro- vide for future intensive urban development within the next five (5) to ten (10) years on lands that are most suitable and that will be scheduled for provision of necessary public utilities and services. The transition lands also provide for additional growth when lands in the developed class are not available or when they are severely limited for development. 2. Description. a) Lands to be classified as transition may include: (1) lands currently having urban services, and 137 (2) other lands necessary to accommodate the urban population and economic growth anticipated within the planning jurisdiction over the fol- lowing ten (10) year period. b) Lands classified transition to help meet the demand for anticipated population and economic growth, and must: (1) be served or be readily served by public water, sewer and other urban services including public streets, and (2) be generally free of severe physical limitations for urban development. In addition, the transition class should not include lands with high potential for agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction, or land falling within extensive rural areas being managed commer- cially for these uses, when other lands are avail- able; lands where urban development might result in major or irreversible damage to important environ- mental, scientific, or scenic values; or land where urban development might result in damage to natural systems or processes of more than local concern. Lands where development will result in undue risk to life or property from natural hazards (including ee inlet hazard areas and ocean erodible areas as defined in 15 NCAC 7H), or existing land uses shall not be classified as transition. c) If any designated area of environmental concern is classified as transition, an explanation shall be included stating why the area is felt to be appropri- ate for high density development. d) In determining the amount of additional transition lands necessary to meet projected urban population and economic growth, the County may utilize estimates of average future urban population densities that are based on local land policy, existing patterns and trends of urban development within the County and densities specified in local zoning; and esti- mates of additional transition class lands should be based upon a guideline density of 500 dwelling units per square mile. 3. Discussion. As discussed earlier, Hertford County is expected to have a population increase of 408 persons by 1995. The Planning Board and Hertford County Commis- sioners have expressed a desire to have the new growth in and within close proximity to the municipalities of the County. Thus, the following areas are designated as transitional: Cofield, Como, Harrellsville, Winton and the industrial park site near Winton. 89 C. Community 1. Purpose., The purpose of the community class is to provide for clustered land development to help meet housing, shopping, employment and public service needs within the rural areas of the County. 2. Description. Lands to be classified community are those areas within the rural areas of planning jurisdictions characterized by a small grouping of mixed land uses (residences, general store, church, school, etc.) and which are suitable and appropriate for small clusters or rural development not requiring municipal sewer service. 3. Discussions. Areas of this type in Hertford County are located in two (2) locations; areas adjacent to existing municipalities and crossroads, such as Pilands Cross- roads. D. Rural 1. Purpose. The purpose of the rural class is to provide for agriculture, forest management, mineral extraction and other low intensity uses. Residences may be located within rural areas where urban services are not required and where natural resources will not be permanently impaired. 2. Description. Lands that can be identified as appropriate for resource management and allied uses include lands 90 with high potential for agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction; lands with one or more limitations that would make development costly and hazardous, and lands containing irreplaceable, limited, or significant natural, recreational, or scenic resources not otherwise classified. 3. Discussion. Most of Hertford County's land area falls within this classification. As previously discussed, Hertford County is a predominantly rural county. It is anticipated that it will continue to remain one of the most rural counties in North Carolina. Since this is the case, it is felt that no additional changes should be made to the rural classification as shown in the 1980 Plan. Very little of the anticipated growth will occur in the rural classified area. This area will be exempt from services necessary to support high density development, i.e. public water and sewer. E. Conservation 1. Purpose. The purpose of the conservation class is to provide for effective long-term management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas. This management may be needed because of its natural, cultural, recreational, productive, or scenic values. These areas should not be identified as transition lands in the future. 91 2. Description. The conservation class should be applied to lands that contain: major wetlands, essentially underdeveloped shorelands that are unique, fragile, or hazardous for development; historical and cultural r-esources, which include historical and archeological sites; necessary wildlife habitat or areas that have a high probability for providing necessary habitat condi- tions; publicly owned water supply watersheds and acquifers; and forest lands that are undeveloped and will remain undeveloped for commercial purposes. 3. Discussion. Conservation areas in Hertford County include all surface waters,areas adjacent to Chowan, Meherrin, and Wiccacon Rivers, and wooded swamps and pocosins mainly located along the Chowan River shore- line. 92 V. RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATION The CAMA guidelines require each local government preparing plans to discuss the manner in which the policies developed apply to each of the land uses which are appropriate in each class. A. Developed and Transition Classes Hertford County has chosen to encourage future develop- ment.in and around its municipalities where urban services can be provided at a minimal cost. These classes are noted on the Land Classification Map. The Developed and Transition Classes are used to provide for the entire range of urban land uses and future development. These uses include resi- dential single and multi -family development, commercial and industrial development, utilities, community facilities, and transportation facilities. Large scale developments such as power plants, wastewater land application systems, hazardous materials storage facilities, and airports should be located in areas classified as rural and located away from the population centers. B. Community Class The Community Class is designated for moderate density development with different types of uses such as homes, 93 general and convenience stores, churches and schools and will serve a fairly limited immediate area. Intensive type urban development will not be encouraged in this classifi- cation. C. Rural Class The Rural Class provides for agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction and other low intensity uses. Residences may be located within the Rural Class where urban services are not required and where natural resources will not be permanently impaired. Some large scale development may be encouraged in the Rural Class when there is an absence of otherwise suitable land within the Developed and Transition Class, or when there is a threat to the urban populace. Such developments include airports and power plants. The County reserves the privilege of allowing specific types of industrial development in the rural areas if there will be no harmful effects from such a location. D. Conservation Class The Conservation Class is to provide for long-term management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas which include wetlands; undeveloped shorelines that are unique, fragile or hazardous for development; wildlife habitat areas; publicly owned watersheds and acquifers; 94 undeveloped forest lands; and cultural and historical sites. Development in the Conservation Class should be severely limited. The County's intentions are addressed under Resource Production and Management. VI. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION The problems discussed in this plan are problems which are common to all the municipalities within the County and as such require common solutions. The Coastal Resources Commission wants to encourage a broad -based intergovernmental coordination role to share the solutions to these common problems. This coordination may be described by three (3) applications: A. The policy discussion and the land classification map encourage coordination and consistency between local land use policies and the State and federal governments. The local land use plan is the principle policy guide for governmental decisions and activities which affect land uses in Hertford County. B. The local land use plan provides a framework for budgeting, planning and for the provision and expansion of community facilities such as water and sewer systems, schools and roads. C. The local land use plan will aid in better coordination of regulatory policies and decisions by describing the local land use policies and designating specific areas for certain types of activities. 96 Hertford County intends to foster intergovernmental coordina- tion by: 1. Being a member of any organization of managers and/or mayors of the municipalities within the County that may be organized. 2. Appointing a County Planning Board composed of members from local governments within the County. 3. Showing that it is inclined to work with other federal and state agencies to implement policies to foster agri- cultural and forestry interests. 4.. Assuring that during the present revision of the Zoning Ordinance, the Planning Board will ensure that the Zon- ing map conforms to existing municipal ordinances where they are adjacent. 5. Demonstrating, in the County's five year work program, the County's commitment to implement and coordinate the Land Development Plan. 6. Hertford County is a member of a County and Municipal Manager's organization. This is a group set by the Mid - East Commission to better coordinate activities of local government'managers in Region Q. 7. The County will work with the State's Department of Cultural Resources in protecting and enhancing its cult- ural, historical and archeological resources. 97 VII. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Hertford County realizes that public participation is a vital component in the planning process. As a result, varied means of soliciting public participation were utilized. The Hertford County Commissioners delegated the responsibi- lity for developing the Land Use Plan Update and the required citizen input to the County Planning Board. Since the Planning Board had the same responsibility in developing the previous update and the original plan, knowledge in obtaining citizen input was readily available. The following is a listing of how citizen input was obtained. A. A questionnaire was developed and administered to a random sample of Hertford County residents to obtain opinions about land use issues. B. A questionnaire was developed and sent to all mayors of Hertford County municipalities for opinions on land use issues. C. Simil"ar questionnaires were sent to minority leaders in the County to get their input. D. Civic group leaders were also sent, similar questionnaires. E. Each Planning Board Meeting was open to the public. F. Public Service spots were placed on the local radio station notifying the citizenry of upcoming public hearings. 98 G. Public Education literature was developed and placed in the local paper concerning the planning process. H. Throughout the process, discussions were held with agency heads, department heads, elected officials, citizen groups, historic groups, industrial development groups and local businessmen. 99 APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL INDEX The following information was used in the preparation of this plan: A. Population 1. North Carolina 1980 Census of Population and Housing, County Summary Data, STF1, Office of State Budget and Management, March 1982. 2. Summary Tape File 3, Microfiche, U. S. Census Bureau, 1983. 3. North Carolina Population Projections, N. C. Office of State Budget and Management, 1984 Edition. 4. North Carolina Municipal Population, N. C. Office of State Budget and Management, January 1985. 5. North Carolina State Government Statistical Abstract, 1984, Fifth Edition, Office of State Budget and Manage- ment, 1984. b. North Carolina Vital Statistics, 1982, Volume-1, N. C. Department of Human Resources, September 1983. B. Economy 1. North Carolina Agricultural Statistics, U. S. Department of Agriculture, October 1984. 2. Profile North Carolina Counties Update, Office of State Budget and Management, September 1984. 3. Soil Survey of Hertford County North Carolina, Soil Conservation Service, U. S. Department of Agriculture, July 1984. 4. Industrial Development Division Data, N. C. Department of Commerce, 1984. 5. North Carolina Farm Income, 1982-1983, N. C. Department of Agriculture, 1984. b. 1982 Census of Agriculture, Preliminary Report, Hertford County, March 1984. C. Transportation 1. North Carolina Transportation Indicators, N. C. Depart- ment of Transportation, April 1985. 2. Highway and Road Mileage, N. C. Department of Transporta- tion, January 1984. 3. Mileage Inventory, N. C. Department of Transportation, January 1984. 100 4. Transportation Development Plan for Bertie, Halifax, Hertford and Northampton Counties, Draft Report, January 1985. D. Environment 1. Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan, Hertford County. 2. Division of Environmental Management Data, N. C. Department of Natural Resources and Community Develop- ment. E. Education 1. North Carolina State Government Statistical Abstract, 1984. 2. State School Data, N. C. Department of Public Instruc- tion, 1984. 3. County School Data, School Superintendent's Office, Hertford County, 1984. 4. Chowan College Data, 1985. 5. Roanoke-Chowan Technical College Data, 1985. F. Historic and Cultural Sites 1. Local Historic Associations in Ahoskie, Harrellsville, Murfreesboro and Winton. 2. North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources computer print-outs, 1985. 101 V I R G I N I A w SOUTH AMP TON '$n COUNTY/ Vp'' -77 212 V ` ` Mill N.,k THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAP WAS FINANCED IN PART 1Elio � THROUGH A GRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA �Y t 36630! �. ,e 2n _ COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, THROUGH FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF 1972, AS AMENDED, WHICH IS ADMINISTERED BY THE ,lam OFFICE OF COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, NA- TIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION. `L I SFII j C B.— 5 0 1 L4._ B E R T I E c ! q r _ F S Nob. HERTFORD COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA SCALE 1 0 0 1 2 3 mm 0.5 SCALE FOR ENLARGEMENTS N EXISTING LAND USE MAP 1985 LEGEND - RESIDENTIAL _ COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL %1�i01, TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATION & UTILITIES • GOVERNMENT & INSTITUTIONAL cl o CULTURAL, ENTERTAIN MENT, l & RECREATION Y AGRORESTLAND 6yO.P lk AHOS�IE { / A C O U N T Y _ �e3 fiia5; \ TAYLOR cl AQND y �1 HNtREllSVILLE� � �' �-- � % ��-�„ • 0 Z d� "l ya5 J° I INI ` 36.15' jo a � " / i 1 o / i V I R G I N I A Q `` SOUTH AMP TON � C O U N T Y o VA. lit4 THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAP WAS FINANCED IN PART THROUGH A GRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA •�,11.� COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, THROUGH FUNDS ) PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF 1972. AS AMENDED, WHICH IS ADMINISTERED BY THE OFFICE OF COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, NA- J`S TIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATIONLl •^I� 3 1/URF ORO Ise : T6'2s' / 3 1 1 L klim Lim I J/ �E IIk, Q LIL lie2 • :UlZ ll1 t1 / � ` L14 • �66�4 ;� N.a VA, N.7 M70' .s 1 i pi er/A . i0 �Lv' i l Nai. 11 C 1` Lli L.3 '& \ lzcz1lao H.16 "A 29 n 1121 4 ® iWii Ioom _■■_T■ ■� -a OF 1 r.■Liiii� �S ■ �i■�Rl1f\y IL mLLLLLLL■�s� IR LLLLLLLLLFw ■ �LLLLLLLL►_ i� ' g�ltilnmtLLa�NorAimmolt .® �� /'_ \• \ , �■ IMF ail' .12 C 0 U N T Y N HERTFORD COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA I SCALE 0 1 7 T ..Us 0 0.5 _J MI1F SCALE FOR ENLARGEMENTS LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP 1985 LEGEND: DEVELOPED ® TRANSITION COMMUNITY RURAL cl O CONSERVATION (INCLUDES N ALL SURFACE WATERS) l r R G I N I A PI SOUTMAM P TOM COLIN T y VA_ 10 VA, AS y, its 'ILLuu 2.0 ull j Lut THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAP WAS FINANCED IN PART .3.9 '3'Z Co THROUGH A GRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA po'. HERTFORD COUNTY COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM. THROUGH FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF NORTH CAROLINA 1972. AS AMENDED, WHICH IS ADMINISTERED BY THE OFFICE OF COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT. NA- TIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION. Nmi V0 -31.f N. ;caml SCALE xf 0 1 3 0.5 tu Llq;' z SCALE FOR ENLARGEMENTS 2 ems` BOR um Mk�M tui Ilse vt pop uai HAZARD AREAS MAP 54 0.3 AREA I Fo 36*256 f 4 1985 LIM un nLllli 'o m.3 \ , 1. , - ".' , 1, :... t wtwv A .. 4f N LAI L" LIZ L*j Ism 4ql, a110 RAP, J, AREA 2 t4L4 r 31 L'Q9 3 t4z JIM rd T. 4A Luj nll tit 7 Ift"I Ila Un N, !a 36'20' Am t ,boo Qr , -44 11 . 4 1 .0 COS LAU Lim qjs• Ll• •A '4N POND LLIAt•tjin I'll John > tMi KAMP-%LsvlXuuLlk ­ 1411 lul um 43 lat is .s A ff AMOSKIE Liu ilm Por.3,103 X5 el, 1.12 330 too t.e 4 lin u T.'A. --m Via to.. 1113 7, tz I '01, uaa sta is 330 10 P 0 .0 It E C T Y 8 E AREA 3