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HERTFORD COUNTY
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
M "1
Prepared for the Hertford County Commissioners:
Claude M. Odom, Chairman Percy E. Bunch
Dupont L Davis Vernice B. Howard
Charles I. Pierce, Jr.
Wilbur Pierce
and
Donald C. Craft, County Manager
Prepared by
The Hertford County Planning and Zoning Board
James Weibley, Chairman
Landon Miales, Vice Chairman
Harvey V. Jones, Jr.
and
THE MID EAST COMMISSION
Robert J. Paciocco, Planner -in -Charge
Jane Daughtridge, Planner
Louis Valenti, Cartographer
Jeanne Ashmore, Secretary
W.W. (Billy) Edwards, Jr.
R.C. Kennington
With Assistance from
Jane E. Godwin, Planning and Zoning Administrator
Wayland W. Mitchell, Building Inspector
Local Adoption Date: May 20, 1991
CRC Certification Date: July 26, 1991
The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management
Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office
of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
INTRODUCTION .......................................... 1
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS .......................... 2
A. PRESENT CONDITIONS ..............................
2
L.
Population and Economy .............................
2
2.
Existing Land Use ...................................
5
3.
Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations ...................
7
B. CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY ....................
10
1.
Physical Limitations .................................
10
2.
Fragile Areas .....................................
11
3.
Areas of Resource Potential ...........................
18
C. CONSTRAINTS: CAPACITY OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES .... 20
1. Existing Water and Sewer Systems Analysis ................ 20
2. Existing School System Analysis ........................ 21
3. Existing Primary Road System Analysis ................... 24
D. ESTIMATED DEMAND ............................... 25
1. Population and Economy ............................. 25
2. Future Land Needs ................................. 27
3. Community Facilities Demand ......................... 27
E. SUMMARY OF DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS ........ 28
F. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS FROM DATA SUMMARY ........:.. 29
1. Present Conditions ................................. 29
2. Constraints: Land Suitability .......................... 29
3. Constraints: Capacity of Community Facilities .............. 30
4. Estimated Demand ................................. 30
POLICY STATEMENTS ...................................... 32
A. 1986 POLICY ASSESSMENT ............................ 33
B. 1990 POLICY STATEMENTS ............................ 39
1. Resource Protection ........... ...................... 39
2. Resource Production and Management .................... 44
3. Economic and Community Development .................. 46
4. Continuing Public Participation ......................... 50
TABLE OF CONTENTS
continued
PAGE
PublicSurvey ................................ ..... 52
A Resolution Describing the 1990 Land Use Plan Update
Public Participation Plan .............................. 54
Hertford County Planning and Zoning Board Meeting Schedule ..... 56
C. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER
RECOVERY AND EVACUATION PLANS .................. 57
1. Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies .. .. ................. 57
2. Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan ........................ 59
3. Analysis of Hurricane Evacuation Plan .................... 60
IV. LAND CLASSIFICATION ....................................
62
A.
DEVELOPED .......................................
62
B.
URBAN TRANSITION ... ...........................
63
C.
LIMITED TRANSITION ...............................
63
D.
COMMUNITY ......................................
63
E.
RURAL WITH SERVICES .............................
64
F.
RURAL ...........................................
64
G.
CONSERVATION ....................................
64
VIL RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATION ........
66
A.
DEVELOPED AND TRANSITION CLASSES ................
66
B.
COMMUNITY CLASS .................................
66
C.
RURAL WITH SERVICES CLASS ........................
66
D.
RURAL CLASS .....................................
67
E.
CONSERVATION CLASS ..............................
67
vim INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMP11NIENTATION .. 68
APPENDIX A TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM, 1990-1996
APPENDIX B STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATORY DEVICES
APPENDIX C SOIL TYPES IN HERTFORD COUNTY
APPENDIX D AGENCIES COORDINATING STORM PREPAREDNESS
LISTING OF TABLES
PAGE
TABLE
1.
Population of Hertford County and Municipalities,
1970, 1980, and 1988. ................... .............
2
TABLE
2.
Projected Population by Race, Sex, and Percentage of
Grand Total, Hertford County 1980, 1990, and 2000 .............
3
TABLE
3.
Manufacturing Firms, Hertford County, 1984 ..................
4
TABLE
4.
Highway Mileage by Systems, Hertford County, 1990 .............
7
TABLE
6A.
Registered Historic Sites, Hertford County, 1990 ...............
15
TABLE
6B.
Unregistered Historic Sites, Hertford County, 1990 ..............
16
TABLE
7.
Prime Farmland Soils, Hertford County, 1984 .................
19
TABLE
8.
Public School Enrollments 1988-1989, March 1990 ..............
22
TABLE
9.
Utilization of Primary Roads, Hertford County, 1988 ............
24
TABLE
10.
Population Projections, Hertford County, 1990-2000 .............
25
TABLE
11.
Projected Population by Age, Hertford County 1990 and 2000 ......
26
TABLE
12.
Tax Value of Structures in Hazards Areas ....................
58
LISTING OF MAPS
MAP
1
Hertford CountyExisting Land Use 1990 ..... ... ........
5.1
MAP
2
Hertford County Existing Land Use 1990 ....................
5.2
MAP
3
Hertford County Hazards Areas 1990 .......................
61.1
MAP
4
Hertford County Land Classification 1990 ....................
65.1
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I. INTRODUMON
Hertford County has long adhered to the Land Use Planning process. ; This document continues
the County's enthusiastic endeavor to conform to the requirements of the Coastal Area Management
Act (CAMA), and represents the third regular update of the original 1976 Plan. It is written in
accordance with the amended Land Use Planning Guidelines, Sub. 713 of 15 NCAC, effective as of
November, 1989. The original 1976 Land Use Plan and all subsequent updates serve as a "blueprint"
for future development in Hertford County.
According to Land Use Planning Guidelines issued by the North Carolina Department of
Environment, Health, and.Natural Resources, 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;
2. to further . examine and refine the land classification system and the land
classification map;
3. to assess the effectiveness of the existing land use plan and its implementation;
4. to further explore implementation procedures; and
5. to promote a better understanding of the land use planning process.
Because the preceding objectives reflect a continuing refinement of the original CAMA 1976 Plan,
athat original plan is utilized as a base for all updates. This is logical since some of the data
incorporated into previous plans are still applicable today. Thus, this .update will periodically refer to
the 1976 CAMA Plan, the 1980 Update, and the 1986 Update.
The Land Use Plan is also an instrument for local units of government to use in addressing land
use issues 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. The 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, all issues addressed in the previous plans which are still relevant
will be identified and analyzed. Consequently, this update will, where applicable, refer to the 1976
document and the 1980 and 1986 updates. New issues not existing in the past will also be addressed.
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H. DATA COLLECITON AND ANALYSIS
CIA. PRESENT CONDMONS
1. POPULATION AND ECONOMY
There has been no significant change in population trends in Hertford County since the 1986
CAMA Land Use Plan Update. Table 1 indicates the population changes that have occurred in the
aCounty and municipalities from 1970 through the 1988 estimates.
Only two of the towns in Hertford County were projected to have positive growth between 1980
aand 1988. Cofield and Murfreesboro experienced an increase in population of 14% in Cofield and
3.7% in Murfreesboro. The 1988 estimate of population indicates that the County has had an overall
increase in population of 1.3% since 1980. The most accurate figures will be available in 1991 after
the 1990 decennial census results are released. (The preliminary 1990 counts for Hertford County have
been added to Table 1 as an addendum in progress. These figures show an overall reduction rather
than increase in total population.)
TABLE 1. Population of Hertford County and Municipalities, 1970, 1980, and 1988; Addendum, 1990.
ADDENDUM
Percent Change Preliminary Percent Change
1970 1980 1988 1980-1988 1990 1980-1990
North Carolina 5,084,411 5,880,095 6,487,438 10.3 6,552,927 11.4
Region C 179,577 200,841 215,562 7.3 217,339 8.2
Hertford County 24,439 23,368 1.3 22,522 -3.6
.23,669
Ahoskie 5,105 4,887 4,800 -1.8 4,385 -10.2
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Cofield 318 465 530 14.0 407 -12.3
Como 211 89 82 -7.9 71 -20.2
Harrellsville 165- 151 142 -6.0 106 -29.8
Murfreesboro 4,418 3,007 3,118 3.7 2,627 -12.6
Winton 917 825 803 -2.7 796 -3.4
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Sources: North Carolina Municipal Population, 1988, Office of State Budget and Management, 1990.US
Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Final Population and Housing Unit Counts, March
1981; US Bureau of Census, Preliminary Housing and Population Counts, 1990.
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Table 2 shows the 1990 and 2000 population projections by race and sex as compared to the 1980
aCensus
data. As the Table denotes, Hertford County's population will continue a slight increase. The
racial composition is projected to be 43.3% white and 56.7% other (Black, Eskimo, Native American)
for 1990 and 42.7% and 57.3%, respectively for 2000. Past trends and future projections connote a
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TABLE 2. Projected Population by Race, Sex, and Percentage of Grand
Total, Hertford County, 1980, 1990, and 2000.
1980
%
1990
%
2000
X.
White Male
4,956
(21.2)
5,039
(21.0)
5,074
(20.9)
White Female
5,329
(22.8)
5,387
(22.4)
5,300
(21.8)
TOTAL
10,285
(44.0)
10,426
(43.3)
100374
(42.7)
Other* Male
(26.7)
6,322
(26.3)
6,383
(26.3)
Other* female
6,847
(29.3)
7,303
(30.4)
7,537
(31.0).
TOTAL
13,083
(56.0)
13,625
(56.7)
13,920
(57.3)
GRAND TOTAL
23,368
(100.0)
24,051
(100.0)
24,294
(100.0)
Source: North Carolina Population Projections 1988-2010, Office of
State Budget and Management, 1988.
*"Other" in Hertford County is Black and Native American.
continuing decrease in the white population into the next decade; however, this overall trend is also
apparent in both the State and the Nation.
It must be noted that projections can be skewed positively or negatively by many unforeseen factors
or actions. In Hertford County's case, we feel that these projections represent an accurate assessment
of our future.
Hertford County's past economy was dominated by agricultural employment. Presently, agricultural
employment is about 2% of total employment and has shown a consistent decline since 1974. The
latest available labor force statistics (1988) indicate that of the annual average civilian labor force of
9,000, total employment is 8,510. Manufacturing employment accounts for 23.6% of the labor force.
About 60% of the firms operating in Hertford County are retail and service type industries.
Table 3 indicates manufacturing firms in Hertford County at the current time. The recent trend
in manufacturing firms is toward small establishments engaged in textile related activities. Other
significant employment factors in Hertford County include the impact of approximately 750 transient
or commuter employees to the Tidewater ship building and other marine industries.
Hertford County had an average unemployment rate of 5.4% for 1988. This marks a substantial
decrease from 8.5% in 1986.
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TABLE 3. Manufacturing Firms, Hertford County, 1984.
EMPLOYMENT
FIRM LOCATION PRODUCT RANGE
Ahoskie Fertilizer
Ahoskie
Blend Fertilizer
Atlantic Printing
Ahoskie
Commercial Printing
Ahoskie Printing
Ahoskie
Commercial.Printing
Ahoskie Yarn
Ahoskie
Knit Fabrics/Yarn
Bennett Box Co.
Ahoskie
Boxes
Brittenham Rebuilding
Services, Inc.
Ahoskie
Rebuilding Car Parts
Carolina Billets (EASCO)
Ahoskie
Smelting Aluminum
Commercial Ready Mix
Ahoskie
Ready Mix Concrete_
Golden Peanut Co.
Ahoskie
Peanuts
Southern States
Ahoskie
Fertilizer
Fabco, Inc.
Ahoskie
Laminated Paneling
Freeman Metal Works
Ahoskie
Caskets
Georgia-Pacific
Ahoskie
Lumber.
N.T. Jones Co.
Ahoskie
Lumber
Ithica Industries
Ahoskie
Men's Underwear
Kerr Glass
Ahoskie
Injection Molding
Lucas Machine &
Welding Co.
Ahoskie
Metal Work
Park Newspapers of
Northeastern NC
Ahoskie
Printing
Pierce Printing Co.
Ahoskie
Commercial Printing
Rose Brothers Paving
Ahoskie
Asphalt
Sew N Sew
Ahoskie
Contract Sewing
Stitch Count
Ahoskie
Embroidery
Tarmac Carolinas
Ahoskie
Block, Concrete, Stone;
Tina's Puppy Palace
Ahoskie
Stuffed Animals
G&N, Inc.
Aulander
Girls' Dresses
Commercial Ready Mix
Cofield
Ready Mix Concrete
Perdue Farms, Inc.
Cofield
Soybean Processing
Chowan Milling Co.
Como
Grain Milt
Harrellsville
Metal Works
Harrellsville
Machine Shop
Georgia-Pacific
Murfreesboro
Baskets/Lumber
B&B Contract Cutters
Murfreesboro
Contract Cutting
Butlitt Printing
Murfreesboro
Commercial Printing
Howell Metal Corp.
Murfreesboro
Industrial
Kerr Packaging
Murfreesboro Machine
Shop
Revelle Grain Co.
Rollic of NC
Roys ter Mid -Atlantic
Carolina Aluminum
(EASCO).
Equipment Parts
Murfreesboro Plastic Bottle Caps
Murfreesboro Fabrication Machinery
Murfreesboro Feed & Seed
Murfreesboro Sportswear and
Piece Goods.
Murfreesboro Blend Fertilizer
Winton Aluminum Extrusion
10 - 19
10 - 19
10 - 19
91
145 - 155
5 - 10
60 - 70
50
20 - 50
10 - 20
1 - 10
50
90 - 100
50 - 100
140
100 - 250
11
140 - 150
10 - 20
25 - 35
10 - 19
1 - 4
15 -
1- 4
1- 4
45
114
7
10 - 20
345 - 355
1- 4
1- 4
30
44
15 - 25
1 -• 4
265 - 275
5 9
526
Sources: 1989-90 Directory of North Carolina Manufacturing Firms: North
Carolina Department of Commerce, Industrial Development Division,
1989; and Hertford County Office of Industrial Development, 1990.
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The agricultural economic picture for the County according to the 1987 Census of Agriculture
shows that the County's farmers sold $24.7 million in agricultural products, down about 8% from 1982.
Of this amount, 64% represented sales from crops, while 36% came from sales of livestock, poultry, and
their products. The Census also indicates that the number of farms decreased from 349 to 271, but the
average size of farms increased 30%. Total cropland also increased about 4.5%; however, harvested
cropland .was down 18.8%
Hertford County is one of the leading peanut producers in North Carolina, although poundage
decreased slightly between 1982 and 1987. The County's corn and soybean production were down 31%
and 25%, respectively, over 1982 but together made up 56% of total crop production. Poultry increases
between 1982 and 1987 helped offset the decreases in crop production. Poultry inventory for broilers
and other meat chickens more than doubled, and hog and pig inventory increased 17% even though the
number of farms decreased.
The North Carolina Department of Travel and Tourism shows 1988 travel -related revenues for
Hertford County to be just over $9 million. Additionally, over 400 jobs were associated with the travel
industry for the County.
aThere 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 to
$8,342 in 1984. Average weekly wages for all industries (1988) is $277.90 with the highest wage earners
employed in communications and the lowest in agricultural crop production.
Outmigration of young people is a concern to public officials. There is an influx of retiring military
personnel from the.Tidewater area of Virginia which helps explain why Hertford County is predicted
to be one of. the fastest aging counties in eastern North Carolina.- '
aHertford 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.
2. EXISTING LAND USE
Hertford. County is made up of 226,700 acres of land and 5,000 acres of water. Seventeen percent
of the land area is owned by Union Camp, Weyerhaeuser, Union Pacific Corporation, and Champion
International. Another 38.9% of the land area is held in ownership tracts over 300 acres in size.
Urban areas account for only 2.3% of the land acreage.
An investigation of the existing land use maps on pages 5.1, 5.2, and Table 1, shown earlier,
discloses that Hertford County's population is distributed- fairly 'evenly within the County and
n concentrated linearly along the transportation routes. This is the prevalent pattern throughout the
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�xistin g Land Use
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Residential
CoinnleI- ci al
Industrial
®Transportatioli, CoinmuilIcat1011
and Utilities
Agriculture& rorestIaiid
s
See Local Land Ilse 111 aii
'WINTON 0
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C 0 Y 0 T 7
0 2.5 5
MILES
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s THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAP WAS FINANCED IN
s PART TILR30N A CRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH
CAROLINA COASTAL MANACEMENT PROGRAM, THROU94
FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF
c 1972, AS AMENDED, WHICH IS ADMINISTERED BY THE
OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT,
s NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION
A
- Nowl���1
5.1
+.. l..... _._._ .._.H e r t f ol o u n
., LI st Land Use
Como .19 9 0
Government & Illsti tutiolial
Cultural, I?ntertaintnent,
R 0 1 and Recreation
e
of ..,,=✓a:;:<'f � '
WINTON °
e FIELD a
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AHO KIE
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MILES
i
s THE PREPARATION OF [MIS MAP GAS FINANCED IN
s PART THROUGH A GRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH
CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, THROUGH
FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF
° 1972, AS AMENDED, 61HICH IS ADMINISTERED BY THE
OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT,
= NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION
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5.2
6
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 addressing land which has environmental
significance. These categories are defined in greater detail on page 11 of this plan under Fragile Areas.
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 of Environmental Concern.
The second -type of AECs within the County is Public Trust Areas. Public Trust Areas are those
areas whose benefits belong to the public whether for commercial or recreational enjoyment. Land
uses that infringe upon the Public Trust Areas must,be regulated and controlled. Activities that might
block or impair existing navigational channels, increase beach or 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 Areas.
Algae blooms in the Chowan River had emphasized the necessity for controls and regulations to
prevent the degradation of Public Trust Areas. 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 Areas of Environmental
Concern. In Hertford County these are the Chowan, Meherrin, and Wiccacon Rivers. Many Public
Trust Areas also overlap Estuarine Waters.
The last class of AECs 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 AECs, 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 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. The Chowan River was declared Nutrient Sensitive
Waters by the State in 1979. Since that time, sewage discharges from Edenton, Aulander, Murfreesboro,
h
and Winton have been eliminated and the Agricultural Extension Service has made efforts to educate
and encourage farmers in the use of Best Management Practices. While the restoration of the River
is a major local and State goal, the future protection and enhancement of the County's rivers through
such means as land development controls will remain a high priority. The designation of AEC helps
provide the means to enhance this protection. No detailed water quality studies have been completed
recently, but the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Water Quality Division
reports that ambient water quality indicators in the Chowan have shown steady improvement.
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). Some small Coastal Wetlands may exist within the area though none
have been formally designated. A Coastal Wetland is defined as any marsh subject to regular or
occasional flooding by lunar or wind tides.
a 3. CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES, AND REGULATIONS
Transportation Plans
The Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) for the State of North Carolina through fiscal year
1996 lists four major improvement projects in Hertford County. Multilane construction of US 13
between Winton. and the Virginia State line is scheduled to begin in 1995 and US 158 By-pass around
Murfreesboro is scheduled for 1992. Connector improvements from Murfreesboro Bypass to US 13 are
scheduled after .1996, and NC 42 improvements between Powellsville and Winton are scheduled for
1996. Table 4 is a summary of highway mileages in Hertford County. Transportation Improvement
Plan maps are located in Appendix A.
TABLE 4. Highway Mileage by Systems, Hertford County, 1990.
Primary (all paved) 97.84
Secondary
Paved 234.01
Unpaved 88.13
Urban Network .-
Primary 8 Secondary 27.47
TOTAL 447.45
a
Source: North Carolina Department of Transportation,
Division Engineer Office, Ahoskie, NC, 1990.
A Transportation Development Plan for Bertie, Halifax, Hertford, and Northampton Counties was
completed in March 1985. This plan revealed that commercial transportation within the study area is
inadequate for the needs of the citizens. The area is still serviced by one intercitycarrier, Carolina
Trailways, and one intra-area public carrier, the Choanoke Public Transportation Authority. Private
transportation providers operate a limited number of licensed taxis within the counties.
Carolina Trailways serves the Towns of Ahoskie and Murfreesboro in Hertford County. Service
from Murfreesboro to Weldon/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 13 passenger vans, 4 buses, and 3 mid -sized vehicles (17 passengers). It operates from 6:00 am to
a6:30 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. Ridership in Hertford County for 1989 was 31,647 passenger trips. For the first six months
of 1990 the figure is 17,858 passenger trips, causing the annual `projection to reflect about a 25%
aincrease.
Taxi service within Hertford County is provided by Emory Taxi . of Ahoskie operating five (5)
vehicles, but only two (2) drivers; George Vaughan Taxi and Ola Vaughan, both of Murfreesboro
operate one (1) vehicle each.
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. The needs identified have largely been rectified. Murfreesboro, Winton, and
n Ahoskie will now operate land application wastewater treatment systems. Public water systems are in
�J place in Winton, Cofield, Murfreesboro, Harrellsville, Ahoskie; Union, and Millennium. Other
municipalities within the County rely on septic tanks and wells for sewer and water facilities
respectively.
0 Open Space and Recreation Poli
Hertford County does not have a Comprehensive Recreation Plan, but relies on the municipalities
to develop their own plans and -policies. Municipalities are free to provide their own recreational
activities.
I I
J
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 for a fee. Boat
landings are scattered along the County's rivers at Murfreesboro, Swain's Mill, Tunis (2), Parker's Ferry,
Reid's Ferry, and Harrellsville.
Prior Land Use Plans
Hertford County had its original land use plan prepared under the North Carolina Coastal Area
Management Act Program in.1976, an update in 1980, and another update in 1986. The Hertford
County Planning Board, which has been in existence for seventeen years, has been extremely active in
guiding land use planning activities.
Prior Land Use Policies
aHertford County's general land use policies were established under the 1976 CAMA Plan and
revised in the 1980 and 1986 Land Use Plan Updates. Current policies are found within this document.
Local Regulations
D A listing of regulations which Hertford County is enforcing is compiled and presented below:
a. Floodplain Restrictions - Hertford County is presently enforcing floodplain
restrictions through . their Zoning Ordinance. Flood hazard areas have been
D 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
a 'Hertford -Gates County District Health Department in accordance with State
standards.
a d. Other Land Use Ordinances - Hertford County enforces a number of
ordinances such as zoning, subdivision, junk car, and mobile home, and utilizes
the CAMA minor development permits process. Hertford County's Building
Inspector enforces these and other related ordinances. Hertford County's
Historic District regulations are included in the Zoning Ordinance.
e. State and Federal Regulations - As indicated, Hertford County enforces a
a number of regulations which have a significant impact of land use decisions.
Also, many State and Federal regulations influence the County's land use
decisions. Appendix B lists those State and Federal Regulations.
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B. CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUTTABIL TY
In instances where conditions have not changed and/or new data has been made available, the 1976
Plan, the 1980 Update, and the 1986 Update will be utilized as a reference and sourceof information.
1. PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS
a. Manmade. Hazards
(1) The manmade hazards within Hertford County are limited in number. Existing
manmade hazards consist of six (6) 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 US 13 south of Ahoskie, NC 42 west of Ahoskie, Jernigan's Swamp
Road, the Millennium Community; and two (2) sites in Murfreesboro at US 258
north, and US 258/158 south.
(2) An additional manmade 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.
Military overflights are very frequent in Hertford County, especially along
the River.
(3) An abandoned fertilizer plant near Tunis has been designated as a site for
"Superfund" cleanup of chemical pollution. No activity has begun on that project
so far. Other hazardous materials are located at Easco Aluminum in Winton,
Meherrin Chemicals west of Ahoskie on US 42, Southern States on Memorial Drive
in Ahoskie, Ahoskie Fertilizer on US 13 South of Ahoskie, E.F. Stephenson & Son
on US 258 south of Como, and F.S. Roster. Mercantile in Murfreesboro.
b. Natural Hazards
(1) Natural hazard areas in the County are flood hazard areas or floodplains 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
tributaries. 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) Geologic formations, water table conditions, and population density make Hertford
County a poor candidate for sites for storage or disposal of hazardous wastes. The
State eliminated Hertford County from consideration for a proposed Southeast
Regional Hazardous Waste site in 1989.
(4) In the 1986 Update, attention was given to the controversy regarding the effect of
water withdrawal by Virginia sources as well as local usage. The Groundwater
Section of the Division of Environmental Management prepared an interim report
revealing that expanding development of reservoirs in the Coastal Plain in North
Carolina and adjacent states during the past 20 years and the effects of this
development on water levels and artesian pressures showed that the reservoir
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capacities and recharge rates were limited: Discussions with an old, established well
drilling firm at that time substantiate the fact that the water levels were declining
in private and . commercial wells in Hertford County. According to their
experiences, 400' wells drilled 20 years ago had water as close as 15' to the surface.
By 1986, those same wells had water 35' to 40' below the surface. The
Groundwater Division of the North Carolina Department of Environment; Health,
and Natural Resources (EHNR) has not done an update of their. original report
(1977), but indicates that conditions are not believed to have changed since 1986.
The situation bears watching, but there is no cause for alarm at this. time.
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 considered to be more than
sufficient for current and projected use.
(5) Another issue of concern in the 1986 Update was channelization. Channelization
is a man -induced process of altering a natural stream by straightening and
deepening in order to increase runoff. The increase in runoff may "improve" land
for agricultural and other purposes. Approximately 67% of the farmland in the
North Carolina Chowan Watershed was drained at that time. In 1978, the Soil
Conservation Service had channelized approximately 22% of the stream miles in
the North Carolina Chowan Watershed. No more channelization of streams has
occurred, although existing structures are maintained. Recent conversations with
SCS personnel in Hertford Countysuggest a reduction of lateral ditching on
farmland. Overall, drained farmland is about 6417P today. This is due to
introduction of grass -based structures as part of Cost -Share programs' Best
Management Practices (BMPs). Additionally, CAMA and the Army Corps of
Engineers have periodic flyovers to locate violations of those regulations.
(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 resulted in the passing of legislation in 1979, of the Nutrient Sensitive
Water Classification Bill. The Environmental Management Commission declared
the Chowan River Nutrient Sensitive Waters which gave the County authority to
regulate discharge by issuance of special permits. Since that time ambient water
quality conditions have been slowly improving. Much of the improvement is
attributed to conversion of area wastewater treatment plants -from direct stream
discharge to land application spray techniques:
2. FRAGILE AREAS
Fragile Areas are those which could easily be damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or poorly
planned development. These have unique qualities which make them valuable to man , and nature.
The Coastal Area Management Act refers to the most important coastal fragile areas as Areas of
Environmental Concern (AECs) and provides for a system of local and State regulations to protect
these resources. The following excerpts from A Guide to Protecting Coastal Resources Through the
CAMA Permit Program* explains the estuarine system AECs applicable to the. Hertford planning
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"The estuarine system is the coast's broad network of brackish sounds,
marshes, and the shorelines surrounding them. These lands and waters support
an abundance of plant and animal life and area a great economic and
recreational resource. Each component of the estuarine system depends in
some way on the others. Any alteration, however slight, in one part of the
estuarine system may have unforeseen consequences in other parts of the
system. For example, the destruction of a salt marsh may lower the quality of
estuarine waters and stimulate the erosion of nearby shorelines.
"As an interdependent collection of lands and waters, the estuarine
system needs coordinated management to ensure that human activities in.one
part of the system do not damage other parts of the system. Development in
the estuarine system needs to be managed in order to protect the system's
important values and benefits. These values include:
good water quality for commercial and sport fishing,
recreation, and human consumption . of fish and shellfish;
• continued free public use of navigable waters; and
• undisturbed nursery areas, spawning areas, shellfish beds, and -
other important habitats.
"The following components of the estuarine system have been
designated as AECs: estuarine waters, public trust areas, coastal wetlands, and
estuarine shorelines.
"I, .141MIRI
"Estuarine waters are the most extensive component of the estuarine
system: _ the state's sounds and tidal rivers link the wetlands, estuarine
shorelines, and public trust areas. The Coastal Area Management Act defines
estuarine waters as 'all the waters of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundary
of North Carolina and all the waters of the bays, sounds, rivers, and tributaries
thereto seaward of the dividing line between coastal fishing waters and inland
fishing waters, as set forth in an agreement adopted by the Wildlife Resources
Commission and the Department of Natural Resources and Community
Development' For the specific boundaries of estuarine and inland waters
contact the nearest Division of Coastal Management office.
"The high biological productivity of the estuarine system depends on
the unique water circulation patterns of the estuarine waters. These patterns
are caused by tidal energy, the mixtures of saltwater and freshwater flows, and
shallow water depths. The circulation of estuarine waters transports nutrients
and plankton, spreads young fish and shellfish, flushes plant and animal wastes,
cleanses the system of pollutants, controls salinity, shifts sediments, and mixes
the water to create a multitude of productive habitats. These habitats include
nursery areas, mud and sand flats, salt marshes, submerged vegetation beds, and
shellfish beds. The estuarines are also an important economic resource because
they support boating, fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities. They
also have considerable value for education and personal enjoyment.
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PUBLIC TRUST AREAS
"Public trust AECs cover waters and submerged lands in the coastal
region where the public has rights of use and/or ownership, including rights of
navigation and recreation. These areas support valuable commercial and
recreational fisheries and are important resources for economic development.
The following lands and waters are public trust areas:
• all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the land thereunder from the
mean high water mark to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction;
• all natural bodies of water, and all lands thereunder, to the mean
high water mark;
• all navigable natural bodies of water, and all lands thereunder,
except privately -owned lakes to which the public has no right of
access;
• all water in artificially -created bodies of water containing
significant public fishing resources or other public resources which
are accessible to the public by navigation from bodies of water in
which the public has rights of navigation; and
•. all waters in artificially -created bodies of water in which the public
has acquired rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or
any other means.
"These areas overlap with the estuarine waters AEC, but they also
cover inland fishing waters that are not in the estuarine waters AEC.
"Development in public trust areas must be properly managed in order
to protect public rights for navigation and recreation, and to perpetuate the
biological and economic benefits these areas provide to the people of the state.
Projects which would directly or indirectly block or impair existing navigation
channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide,
cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate water quality standards, or
cause degradation of shellfish waters are generally considered incompatible with
the management policies for public trust areas. The development of navigation
channel or drainage ditches, the use of bulkheads to prevent erosion, and the
building of piers, wharves, or marinas are examples of uses that may be
acceptable within public trust areas, provided they will not be detrimental to
public trust rights and the ecological functions of the area.
COASTAL WETLANDS
'"The Coastal Area Management Act defines a coastal wetland as any
marsh subject. to regular or occasional flooding by lunar or wind tides.
Freshwater swamps and inland wetlands are not covered by the Act, unless the
CRC designates them as a 'natural resource AEC.'. They. are, however,
protected by the Clean Water Act and a Corps of Engineers permit is required
for work in them. Coastal wetlands contain certain plant species.
"The roots, stems, and seeds of marsh plants provide high quality feed
and nesting materials for waterfowl and other wildlife. Plant leaves and stems
0 14
a
also tend to dissipate waves while their extensive root systems bind soil; thus,
marsh plants reduce the erosion of estuarine shorelines and help guard against
aflood damage. The unique productivity of the estuarine system is supported by
the nutrients and decayed plant material (or detritus) that the marshes produce;
these nutrients and detritus support marine life. The marsh also traps
a nutrients by slowing the water which flows over it. In this manner, the level
of nutrients supporting life in the estuaries is maintained, and - sediments
harmful to marine animals are removed. Without coastal wetlands, the
a complex food chains and high productivity levels typically found in the estuaries
could not be maintained.
'Mat productivity is of great importance to North Carolina's economy.
Ninety-five percent of the commercial and recreational seafood' species
(including shrimp, flounder, oysters, crabs, and menhaden) depend on coastal
wetlands for part of their lives.
ESTUARINE SHOREI�INES
"The CRC has designated as an AEC all shorelines within 75 feet
landward of the mean high water level, or normal water level, of the estuarine
waters. Estuarine shorelines, though typically dry land, are an important part
of the estuarine system because of their connection to the estuarine waters.
a Improper development along the estuarine shoreline can pollute or destroy
adjacent waters and wetlands. Estuarine shorelines are also vulnerable to
erosion, flooding, and other natural hazards found in the estuarine system.
"Development along estuarine shorelines must not damage these natural
barriers to erosion, nor should development harm documented historic
architectural or archaeological resources. It is also important for construction
projects to avoid causing sedimentation of estuarine waters, and to avoid
covering the shoreline within impervious surfaces. Buffers of natural vegetation
between the shorelines and development provide additional protection for
estuarine resources."
a _
"Department of Natural Resources and Community Development, Raleigh, North Carolina, 1988.
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Fragile areas in Hertford County consist of the estuarine waters of the Chowan and Meherrin
Rivers; estuarine shorelines of these Rivers and tributaries; Public Trust Areas; 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.
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The County has also identified numerous sites which contain churches, stores, and houses of
archaeological and historical significance. Tables 6A and 6B include registered and unregistered
historical sites within the County.
TABLE 6A Registered Historic Sites, Hertford County, 1990.
aBUILDING
LOCATION
Ahoskie Downtown Historical District
Ahoskie
Wynnewood -James Newsome House
Ahoskie
King -Casper -Ward -Bazemore House
Ahoskie
William Mitchell House
Ahoskie
Myrick House
Ahoskie
*Captain Langley Taylor House
Ahoskie
Riddick House
Cofield
Vernon Place
Como
Hare Plantation
Como
Deane House
Como
*Hunting Wilds
Como
*Warren-Winbome House
Como
Mulberry Grove
Menola
*The Cook House
Menola area
Gray Gable/James S. Mitchell House
Murfreesboro
William Rea Store
Murfreesboro
Q
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
*405 North Street
Murfreesboro .
C.S. Brown Auditorium
Winton
*Official Study list sites.
Source: Department of Cultural Resources, Computer Printout, July 1984; and
North Carolina Department of Cultural
Resources correspondence 1990.
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TABLE 6B. Unregistered Historic Sites, Hertford County, 1990.
BUILDING
AHOSKIE
LOCATION
US Post Office (former)
E.L. Garrett Building
E.J. Gerock Department Store
Mitchell Furniture Co. Annex
Ahoskie Baptist Church (former)
Newsome Grove Baptist Church
Masonic Lodge #98
James Riddick House
Powell -Myers Farm
Vinson House
Copeland Farm
Jenkins House
William H. Jernigan House
John E. Mitchell Farm
a Thomas Eley Farm
House-303 N. Catherine Street
Newsome-McGlohon House
Rev. James & Mary Sills House
Andrews Turner House
Faulk Alston House
A. Andrew Newsome House
Issac Newsome House
Dempsey Smith House
a
Downs-Phelps-Welch-Guttu House
.Ephriam Feldman House
Howard -Barnes -Phelps House
Richard Baker House
House-231 S.' Catherine Street
Myers -Barnes House
John William Godwin House
Jessie Richard Garrett House
Cecil Wiggins House
McGlohon-Mitchell House
Whedbee Row
Hayes -Brett House
Stephen Henry Leary House
Bank of Ahoskie
Parker -Powell Buildings
Garrett Hotel
Hotel Comfort
W.D. Newsome Building
Richard Theatre (Gallery Theatre)
aSawyer -Brown Furniture Co.
Mitchell.Hotel
Hertford Herald Building
Overton House
Farmers Atlantic Bank
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Gatling Plantation Site/Cemetery
Hare Plantation
- The Little Court House .
Buckhorn Baptist Church
The Shepherd Plantation
The Vernon Place (Cowper Plantation)
Maney-Riddick House
HA1tRE i SVILLE
aThe 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
Cullen House
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TABLE 6B. Unregistered Historic Sites, Hertford County, 1990, continued.
BUILDING LOCATION
MENOLA
Snipes -Vincent House
Rev. Craig House
I u U1 S • ' •
Liverman Farm
Rose Bower House
Rosemond-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
Joseph Rea House
Yeates-Vaughn House/Law Office
Lawrence -Barnes House
Parker House
Vaughn Store
Captain L.C. Lawrence House
D.A. Barnes 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
Barland House
Masonic Hall
Adkins House
Mount Tarbor Baptist Church
Spiers-Deans House
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TABLE 6B. Unregistered Historic Sites, Hertford County, 1990, concluded.
BUILDING LOCATION .
PII AND'S CROSS ROADS
Barnes -Dean House Levi Askew House
WINPON
John Vann Place Mitchell House
Source: Local Historical Societies.
Hertford County has 132 known historic and prehistoric archaeological sites. These are located
throughout the County with 27 of these sites in the Union area, 10 around Mintons Store, 9 around
Harrellsville, and the others spread out in 6 other areas.
3. AREAS OF RESOURCE POTENTIAL
aThere have been no potentially 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 82,297 acres, or about thirty-six
a 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 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
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Forest Lands, relates the State's policy that "...farm and timber production are the highest priority uses
of prime agricultural and forest lands within the Countybe 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 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 appropriate measures have been applied to overcome a hazard or limitation, such
as flooding, wetness, or droughtiness.
TABLE 7. Prime Farmland Soils, Hertford County, 1984.
MAP
SOIL
SYMBOL 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
14%
18,377
8.1
ExA
Exum
very sandy loam
14%
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; US Department of Agriculture
Soil Conservation Service, North Carolina Department of Environment,
Health, and
Natural Resources,
North Carolina Agricultural
Extension Service,
and North Carolina
Agricultural Research Service; July 1984.
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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 provision of such services by the community
indicates that community's intention and commitment to development.
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 4,800 and is
the distributor for the water system. Water is supplied by four (4) wells with a maximum daily capacity
of 2.4 million gallons per day (gpd). Water storage capacity is 800,000 gallons per day. Average
demand is 820,000 gpd.
Cofield. -. Cofield is located in the southeastern portion of Hertford County and has a population
of 541. Water is supplied by two (2) wells with a total pumping capacity of 288,000 gpd. The Cofield
population requires approximately 25-30,000 gpd. In the past, water service for Cofield and adjacent
areas was provided by the Cofield Water Corporation and not by the Town; however, the Town
purchased the system and began operation on July 1, 1985.
Harrellsville - Harrellsville is located northeast of Ahoskie and has a population of 142. 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 3,118. Water is supplied by three (3) wells with a maximum daily capacity of 3.5 million
gpd. Water storage capacity is 575,000 gpd in an elevated tank. Average demand is 400,000 gpd.
- Winton - Winton, with a population of 803, is the county seat of Hertford and is located in the
northeastern section of the County. Water is supplied by three (3) wells with a maximum daily
capacity of 1.7million gpd. Water storage capacity is 200,000 gallons in an elevated tank. Average
demand is 200,000 gpd.
Ahoskie, Cofield, Murfreesboro, and Winton all have their own independent Land Use Plans which
should be consulted for specific details relating to public works systems and other development matters.
D 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
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aCounty. 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 11,934 or 50.4% of the total County population. This leaves 49.6% of the County's
population that relies on private wells for potable water.
Water quantity is sufficient for present use and should be adequate well into the turn of the
aCentury. Population increases between 1990 and the year 2000 are anticipated to be only 243 people.
Less than 100 of these are projected to reside in urban areas where water systems exist. At an average
consumption of 100 gallons per person per day, 9,800 gallons per day will be needed to support the
anticipated population increase that will reside within the County's six (6) towns. Water quality varies
somewhat and the County is currently investigating the possibility of providing public water systems in
some areas in the near future:
Sewer Systems
Ahoskie - Ahoskie presently operates a wastewater treatment system of the trickling filter type with
a design capacity of 780,000 gpd. The Town is currently under a court judgement for exceeding their
capacity by 18%. Average daily flow is 920,000 gpd. Improvements underway will increase capacity only
to about one million gallons per day.
Cofield - Cofield does not have a wastewater system. The residents must utilize on -site methods
for the disposal of wastewater and soils are poorly suited for this. The Town requested to tie -on to
the Winton system but their request was denied in 1989. Negotiations are still underway.
aHarrellsville - Harrellsville does not maintain a wastewater system and presently relies on individual,
on -site methods for the disposal of wastewater.
aMurfreesboro - 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. Average daily demand
varies from 250,000 gpd during dry weather and 650,000 gpd in wet periods.
Winton - Winton operates a system similar. to Murfreesboro's and has a capacity of 235,000 gpd.
a Demand varies from 75,000 to 95,000 gpd. The Town has committed 30,000 gpd to serve the Industrial
Park. A proposed tie -on of Cofield was denied in 1989.
2. EXISTING SCHOOL SYSTEM ANALYSIS
In 1989, the school system was consolidated in Hertford County. The Hertford County Board of
aEducation presently operates six (6) schools within the County. Four (4) of these are elementary, one
is a middle school, and one is a senior high school. The elementary schools are located in Ahoskie (2),
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Winton, and Murfreesboro. The consolidated middle school is located in Murfreesboro. The senior
high school is sited in Ahoskie.
The data in Table 8 describes the existing conditions of the Hertford County School System. Thus
far in 1990, total public school enrollment is 4,223 students. Currently, a downward trend in
aenrollment is being experienced. Enrollment. has decreased from 4,933 during the 1979-80 school year
to a total of 4,138 during the 1988-89 school year. This represents a 16.1% decrease over the past nine
ayears.
A private K-12 school, Ridgecroft, in Ahoskie educates 251 students from Hertford County who
would otherwise be enrolled in the public system.
aTABLE 8. Public School Enrollments 1988-1989; March 1990.
1988-89 March 1990
ELEMENTARY
Riverview (K-5) 627 626
C.S. Brown (K-5 293 296
Robert L. Vann (4-5) 369 390
Ahoskie Graded (K-3) 743 768
TOTAL ELEMENTARY 2,022 .2,080
HERTFORD. COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL 948 967
HERTFORD COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL 1,168 1,176,
TOTAL PUBLIC SCHOOL ENROLLMENT MENT 4,138 4,223
a -
Source: Hertford County Board of Education, Principals' Reports 1989, 1990.
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
23
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 construction 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 and later to Roanoke-Chowan Community College. _ The College offers Associate
Degree Curriculums in Architectural Technology, Business Administration, Business Computer
Programming, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Specialist, Executive Secretarial, General Education,
Special Education, General Office Technology, and Nursing Education options. Vocational Certificate
and Diploma Curriculums are offered in Air Conditioning; Heating and Refrigeration, Automotive
Mechanics, Cosmetology, Diesel Vehicle Maintenance, Industrial Maintenance, Light Construction;
Welding, and Nursing Assistant. Continuing Education courses are also offered.
Average quarterly enrollment at Roanoke-Chowan Community College is 660 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 institutions 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 expansions have been completed on the 142-year old campus. Expansions and
renovations since the last Land Use Plan Update include Whitaker Library, Mixon Hall, Graphic
Communication Building, and the Jesse Helms Gymnasium.
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 Diploma programs. The Department
of Graphics Communications offers program in Printing Technology, Photography, and Typesetting
Technology:. ,
The College had a Fall 1990 enrollment of approximately 974 students, which represents a 2.7%
decrease from Fall 1989.
24
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. Table 9 denotes the percentage of utilization.
TABLE 9. Utilization of Primary Roads, Hertford County, .1988.
DESIGN MAXIMUM PERCENT
ROAD CAPACITY ADT* UTILIZATION
US 13
12,000
12,500
104.0
US 158
12,000
10,000
83.3
US 258
12,000
8,200
68.3
US 11
12,000
3,300
27.5
US 42
12,000
6,700
55.8
US 45
12,000
3,300
27.5
US 305
12,000
1,900
15.8
US 461
12,000
800
6.7
US 561
12,000
5,000
41.7
*MAXIMUM ADT COUNTS WERE RECORDED
AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
US 13 at NC 561 US 45 at Winton
US 158 at US 258 and NC 11 US 305 at NC 35
US 258 near Murfreesboro US 461 at NC 11
US 11 not recorded US 561 at US 13
US 42 at US 13
Source: North Carolina Department of Transportation District
Engineers Office, Ahoskie, NC; Mr. Emory (personal
communication), April 1990.
*ADT Average Daily Traffic. -
KI
c
D. ESTIMATED DEMAND
1. POPULATION AND ECONOMY
As exhibited in Table 1 (page 2), Hertford County has experienced a loss of 1,071 persons from
24,439 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 301 between the 1980 Census figure and the July 1, 1988 estimates.
Table 10 indicates the projected populations for Hertford County and the sik (6) towns within the
County, based upon current trends.
" TABLE 10. Population Projections, Hertford County, 1990-2000.
COUNTY
D
AHOSKIE
COFIELD
COMo
HARRELLSVILLE
MURFREESBORO
WINTON
TOTAL
1990
4,882
i 529
72
144
3,175
817
24,051
a 1991
4,887
530
72
144
3,178
819
24,075
1992
4,892
530
72
145
3,181
819
24,099
1993
4,897
531
72
145
3,184
820
24,123
1994
4,902
531
72
145
3 187
821
24,147
1995
4,907
532
73
145
3,191
822
24,171
1996
4,912
532
73
145
3,194
822
24,195
1997
4,917
533
73
145
3,197
823
24,220
1998
4,922
533
73
145
3,200
824
24,244
1999
4,926
534
73
146
3,203
825
24,268
2000
4,932
534
73
1-46
3,207
826
24,294
Source: Mid -East Commission estimates; North Carolina Population Projections 1988-2010, Office
of State Budget and Management, 1988 edition; North Carolina Municipal Population 1988,
Office of State Budget and Management, January 1990.
According to population projections, the County is projected to increase by only 243 persons
between 1990 and 2000. This represents only about one percent growth during a ten-year period. The
Hertford County Planning Board and County Commissioners feel that this conservative increase will be
compatible with the County's expectations.
Assuming all municipalities. represent the urban areas in the County, it appears that 40% of the
1990 projected population will be.urban and 60% rural. These percentages are projected to be the
same for 2000. In 1970, the mix was 45.6% urban and 54.4% rural, which changed to 40.3% urban,
59.7% rural by 1980. The figures indicate slow growth in the County as well as the gradual change in
the rural -urban mix trend toward even greater rural dominance. This trend may indicate a tendency
D
0 26
of residents to escape the towns for locations just outside the actual municipality, or it may reflect the
out migration of city dwellers to other counties or states.
A comparison of 1990 projections with 2000 projections is found in Table 11. Hertford County will
have a decrease of 531 school age children (ages 5-18) by the year 2000. This represents a decrease
of 10.5%. This comparison also notes an increase in the population aged 65 and over by a total of 490
senior. citizens. This represents the largest increase of any age group. Therefore, the trends indicate
less school attendance, less need for strenuous recreation, and a significant increase in needed services
for the retirement community.
TABLE 11. Projected Population by Age, Hertford County, 1990 and 2000.
% OF % OF % OF
AGE 1990 POPULATION 2000 POPULATION CHANGE
16.3%
0- 4 1,602 6.7 1,341 5.5
5 - 18 5,045 21.01 4,514 18.6 10.5
19 - 64 13,623 56.6 14,170 58.3 + 4.0
D65
and up 3,780 15.7 4,270 17.6 +13.0
Source: North Carolina Population Projections 1988-2010, Office of State Budget and Management,
D1988
edition.
a
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. Peanuts, corn, and soybeans are dominant crop types.
Hertford County's Industrial Development Office predicts new industry will locate in Hertford
County. Active promotional efforts are ongoing to attract industries in the resource processing category
or those which use large amounts of water for cooling. One advantage to industry in Hertford County
is the easy availability of natural gas from the pipeline path through the County.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
27
2. FUTURE LAND NEEDS
The Land Use Guidelines give local governments an opportunity to estimate the need for residential
structures and related services. Locations suitable for such development should also be identified. In
1980, Hertford County_ had an average household size of 3.1 persons. The 1986 Land Use Plan Update
predicted an average household size of 3.56 persons by 1990. Since the population is aging, it is
unlikely that this factor will change significantly over the next ten years. By dividing the estimated
household size into the estimated population increase, it can be seen that approximately 68 additional
residences will have to be provided within the County. Because adequate land with central water and
sewer services is already available in three (3) of the six (6) municipalities in Hertford County, this need
can easily be accommodated.
It is anticipated that Hertford County's future land development needs will continue to be centered
in or near its incorporated municipalities and unincorporated communities. Subdivision regulations are
in effect which govern the density to which dwellings must adhere for wells and septic tank standards
in areas not furnished with municipal systems.
Hertford County with its 356 square miles is a sparsely populated county. Even so, it is projected
Dto
have population density of 68.2 persons per square mile in the year 2000. This represents only a
2.4% increase from the 1984 figure of 66.7.
3. COMMUNITYFACILITIES DEMAND
Hertford County will be able to absorb the projected population with no undue burden placed on
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
Destimated
that no additional educational facilities will be needed; however, the replacement of buildings
will be necessary as older facilities age out.
Hertford County has more than an adequate supply of groundwater, therefore, the water supply
should not provide any restraint to future growth.
Of the three (3) wastewater treatment facilities that are currently operational in the County, only
Winton has sizable excess capacity. Improvements to the Ahoskie system will only produce an 8%
excess capacity over today's needs. This will limit long-term growth potential in that Town. The
Murfreesboro is highly dependent but based range of current
system on weather conditions, on a middle
usage, that system can only support about a 6% increase in usage. Nevertheless either system will more
than accommodate currently projected growth over then next ten years.
111
28
E. SUMMARY OF DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
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 US Census were
also used, as well as publications from the North Carolina State Data Center, City County Data Book
1988, Profile North Carolina Counties 1981 and 1986, Hertford County SCS and ASCS officers, and the
North Carolina Division of Travel and Tourism. Conversations were also held with Hertford County
Industrial Development personnel for the present-day economic representation in the County.
Existing Land Use information was obtained by conversations with County personnel and by
studying building permit records to update the land use from the 1986 plan.
Current Plans, Policies, and Re la�u tions information was gained from sources such as the North
aNatural
Carolina Department of Transportation, the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and
Resources, the Hertford County Planning Commission, the Hertford County Manager's
and
Office.
Constraints: Land Suitability information was obtained from the 1986 Land Use Plan and on -site
investigations. Natural and manmade hazards were reviewed and areas with soil limitations were
identified.
Constraints: Capacity of Community Facilities information was obtained from the City Managers
and Public Works directors in the Towns, North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and
Natural Resources Water Quality Division, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the
Hertford County School Superintendent's Office, Roanoke-Chowan Community College Registrar's
Office, Chowan. College Registrar's Office, Ridgecroft School Registrar's Office.
and
Future Land Needs information was developed by examining past land development trends and
population projections.
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 the year 2000.
Information from the 1986 Land Use Plan Update was used to identify unregistered t� historic 1p aces.
The North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources provided data on registered sites as well as
archaeological sites.
0
29
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 only a small increase in population since 1980.
Hertford County's 1980 Census population was 23,368. The 1990 estimate is 24,051,
for a gain of 683 persons. It must also be noted that future estimates indicate
fluctuation in population through the year 2000 with slight increases through 1995
followed by slight decreases.
(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 -forest oriented.
~ (5) Since 1986, the number of industrial jobs has remained virtually unchanged,
although the industries themselves have changed. There seems to be a trend toward
small "cottage industries," particularly the cut -and -sew textile operations.
b. Existing Land Use
(1) There has been very little change in land use patterns since 1986.
(2) An increase in urban build-up has occurred since 1986 in Ahoskie, Murfreesboro,
and Winton. Annexation in . Murfreesboro took in about eleven (11) acres of
County land.
(3) The County population continues to be grouped in and around the communities.
There is a slight trend toward development in the unincorporated communities.
(4) Hertford County has significant land use compatibility problems in the Cofield area
where soils are unsuited for septic systems and no municipal system is available.
(5) Areas likely to experience major land use change by the year 2000 are
Murfreesboro, Winton, and Ahoskie. Natural growth will occur in all of these areas
if planned highway improvements are, in fact completed.
(6) Hertford County has three (3) areas of environmental concern which consist of
estuarine waters, public trust areas, 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 manmade constraints, but does have physical constraints, such as
wetness and flooding. Groundwater depletion and pollution of the Chowan River are
relatively stable at this time. The manmade hazards include the, County airport which
11,
0
0
0
0
0
0
a
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
30
accommodates a low volume of private flights. The County receives a great deal of military
overflight from the Virginia area.
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 their tributaries, Public
Trust Areas, 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 decreasing, does not present a constraint
for development. The water systems provide adequate quantity and quality of water. There
is some concern about mineral content from some individual wells in the County.
b. Municipal wastewater facilities in Ahoskie are.undergoing improvement. Other systems are
adequate for the needs of their service areas.
C. The school system does not present a constraint for development.
d. Hertford County's present road system is not being utilized to full capacity, with the .
exception of US 13 at NC 561 and hence it will not be a constraint for development.
Planned improvements should spur development if completed as scheduled.
4. ESTIMATED DEMAND
a. Population and Economy
(1) Hertford County is expected to have a population increase of 243 persons between
1990 and 2000.
(2) Hertford County will continue to be a predominantly rural -oriented area.
(3) Hertford County's economy will continue to be agricultural -forestry oriented.
(4) There will be limited additional industrial development and a need for services
aimed at a retirement population.
b. Future Land Needs
(1) .Hertford County will not have a land availability problem by 2000 for development;
however, there is potential for farm and forest lands around the six (6) towns to
be converted to non-agricultural 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 80.5% of the County's building permits for years 1986-
1989 have been issued in the Towns of Ahoskie,*Murfreesboro, and Winton. The
31
public service systems in these Towns are adequate to provide for this growth and
more. The slow growth projection for the County can easily be accommodated.
C. Community Facilities Demand
(1) Hertford County has an ample supply of water for the year 2000 projected
population. Localized groundwater depletions are not anticipated to be a problem.
(2) Hertford County's municipalities are in different phases of EPA 8201" 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 the year
2000.
0
III. POLICY STATEMENTS
aessential
The setting of goals objectives, policy statements, and implementation procedures are the most
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 set 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 are
of continuing concern in the land use plans. Those will be re -addressed again in this current plan. An
assessment of 1986 policies follows this introduction.
The Policy Statements for 1990-2000 are the results of recommendations, local input, and the
Planning Board's experience in Hertford County's needs. These statements define the problem or
aopportunity,
possible alternatives for action, the selected alternative(s) and the means to implement
those alternatives. It must be noted that some issues are of such great importance that appropriate
alternatives are obvious and non-negotiable. Many others in the discussion required by CAMA
guidelines are only vaguely applicable in Hertford County at this time.
Generally Economic have
speaking, Hertford County embraces a pro -growth philosophy. needs
contributed to this point of view. Nevertheless, if the County were faced with profuse or adverse
development pressure, it would revert to quality -of -life criteria as a guiding to control
P P � q t3' � g
development. In 1989, the citizenry spoke out in force against a possible hazardous waste site, proving
that "growth at any cost" is unacceptable.
There are three basic approaches to resource issues: Preservation, Conservation, and Exploitation.
A preservation approach attempts to prohibit use altogether in order to save the resource in its natural
32
a
U1
0 33
state for future generations to enjoy. This approach requires adoption and strict enforcement of
aprotective laws. An example might be prohibiting development in a known habitat for an endangered
species.. If applied to privately -owned property, such restrictiveness is subject to legal challenge as a
a"taking" of property rights.
A conservation approach attempts to use resources sparingly in order to prolong their usefulness
over a long period of time. This approach uses regulations, restrictions, and incentives to control the
arate at which or the way in which a resource is used. In a sense, it controls the supply regardless of
the demand.
An exploitation approach attempts to use resources in an uninhibited way in direct response to
demand. It has a relatively short-term focus and relies on the availability or development of substitutes
when the resource is depleted. This approach thrives in the absence of regulation or enforcement and
may be desirable where resources are overabundant or substitutes are already available.
Any of these approaches is an alternative open to Hertford County as it explores policy options.
The conservation approach probably best describes chosen implementation strategies. The County
attempts to influence resource use through support, enforcement or local adoption of regulations or
incentives which control development.
A 1986 POLICY ASSESSMENT
DThe 1986 Land Use Plan Update enumerated policy statements and implementation strategies on
five Resource Protection issues, three Resource Production and Management issues, seven Economic
and Community 'Development ' issues, two Continuing Public Participation issues, and three Storm
Hazard Mitigation issues. An abbreviated version of these policy statements follows, including
evaluation of effectiveness. All required issues not listed in this version were defined with "no policy"
designations in the 1986 plan. In total, the 1986 Land Use Plan Policy Statements are found from page
55 to page 83 of that document.
34
Overall, the County's policy implementation record is above average.
With a total of twenty (20) Policy Statements on a 100 point grading system, each policy is worth 5
points. The implementation grade for Hertford County is 85.
ABBREVIATED
HERTFORD COUNTY
1986 LAND USE POLICIES
RESOURCE PROTECTION
Natural Resources
1. Support the State's Regulatory position regarding the protection of prime farmland from urban
type development and Industrial development.
• Discourage land use that would destroy prime farmland or take it out of
production.
This is accomplished through an AEC zoning overlay district as partof the
Hertford County Zoning Ordinance. (5)
Fragile Areas
2. Strictly enforce CAMA regulations and uphold permitting process.
• Use zoning ordinance to protect Historic and Cultural Sites.
This is enforced adequately. (5)
Drinking Water
3. Support State standards regarding groundwater quality.
• Use zoning enforcement, building codes, and Health Department
regulations.
There have been no problems thus far. (5) .
35
Packa eQ Sewage Treatment Plants -
4. Use ordinances and regulations already in place to regulate these alternatives.
• County and State regulations should be followed.
The County sanitarian strictly enforces codes. (5)
Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
5. County requires industry to prepare an environmental impact statement or environmental
as8essment.
This applies to any development activity which disturbs more than one acre
of land. (5)
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
Productive Agricultural Lands
1. Support the State's regulatory position.
• Use zoning ordinance and land use plan to protect.
This policy has been appropriately pursued (5)
Residential and Commercial Land Development
2. Enforce current County ordinances and codes.
Codes are reviewed and updated as necessary and enforced diligently. (5)
Industrial Impacts
3. Support industrial jobs to impact human resources.
Support by active recruitment efforts has been positive. The Planning
Board feels the County could do more to support existing industry in times
of controversy. (4)
a 36
a
ECONOMIC AND CONMUNPTY DEVELOPMENT
es and Locations of Industries Desired
'I'yp
1. Attract non-polluting industry.
• Develop a detailed Economic Development Plan.
• Support organizations which strengthen development.
• Site new industry only in industrial zones.
• Environmental Impact Statements required.
a A detailed Economic Development Plan was developed in 1986 and is
currently being revised. As aforementioned, local government could be
more active in assessing controversial situations. New industries are steered
toward industrial zones but appropriate rezoning also takes place. (3)
Commitment to Providing Services
2. Support as can (Clean Water Bill was set aside for extension of utility services within industrial
park).
The Industrial Park has been improved with paved roads, municipal water
and sewer service, and clear cutting of sites. (5)
Desired Urban Growth Patterns.
3. Encourage development in and near urban areas to maximize utilization of public facilities and
utilities.
D This pattern has occurred somewhat naturally. Residential Development
over the past five years has concentrated in Ahoskie, Murfreesboro, and
Winton. Commercial development has primarily taken place in Ahoskie.
(5)
Redevelopment of Developed Areas
4. Seek out grant opportunities for neighborhood improvements and total community revitalization.
This is done individually by the municipalities but has not been pursued by
the County for rural areas. (0)
37
Economic Ties to Tidewater Virginia
5. Begin plans to ensure that ordinances and regulations are developed to accommodate trends
toward "bedroom community" role.
Present ordinances are adequate to accommodate this issue. (5)
Countywide Water System
6. A water system is essential to growth and development.
No countywide water system is being pursued. Individual wells have not
posed health problems to date, but a system is still needed in several areas
of the County. (2)
Upgrade of Educational Facilities
7. Antiquated facilities need to be replaced.
Progress has been made by consolidation of the City -County system. A new
school is scheduled to be built in two years and an asbestos removal
program is to be carried out in older facilities. Continued diligence is
encouraged. (5)
CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Public Participation
1. An Information packet has been developed.
No packet for participation has been developed. A publicity brochure is
available and a video from industrial development. (2)
Continued Participation
2. Participation is encouraged.
• Periodic questionnaires.
• "Speakers Bureau"
• News items in paper and on radio.
Questionnaires are only used during Land Use Updates.
No speakers bureau has been developed.
Items are regularly appearing in the newspaper. (4)
ft
38
STORM HAZARD UMOA71ON
1. Zoning ordinance prohibits new construction or reconstruction along river banks.
2. Take action to ensure damage is minimized in public investment decisions.
3. Implement programs and policies which limit location and emphasize construction standards for
new development.
Number 1 is incorrect. CAMA guidelines are followed closely, but
construction is allowed. (5)
The Subdivision Ordinance and CAMA regulations accomplish Numbers 2
and 3. (5) and (5)
e
39
B. 1990 POLICY STATEMENTS
1. RESOURCE PROTECTION
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 remains a primary issue facing the County in the next decade.
With natural resources being the economic mainstay for the County there are no real alternatives
except to provide some type of protection for these resources. 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.
a. Constraints to Development
Applicability. Soil limitations are found primarily along the banks of the Chowan,
Meherrin, and Wiccacon Rivers and their tributaries where wet Dorovan-Bibb-Wehadkee
soils are prevalent. On the whole, these areas are not developed for urban purposes.
Where poorly drained soils are present, septic tank suitability is unsatisfactory. This is a
major cause for concern in the Cofield area. Ahoskie, Murfreesboro, and Winton provide
municipal water and sewer to those residents in response to this problem. Septic tank
suitability is generally a problem throughout the County. Of thirty-two (32) soil types
listed in Hertford County, twenty-four (24) have severe limitations for septic tanks (See
Table C1, Appendix A).
Alternatives: The options are preservation, conservation or exploitation. Given the extent
of unsuitable soils in Hertford County, prohibiting development is not reasonable; however,
consideration of potential problems in these weak areas is important and potential
developers must be: made aware of the risks. Random exploitation is also out of the
aquestion, given the health and property risks.
Policy: The approach shall be conservation. The policy shall be to support and enforce
a Federal, State, and County regulations governing the placement of development in flood
zones and the installation of septic tanks.
Strategy: Implementation shall occur though enforcement of septic standards by the County
Sanitarian, enforcement of the zoning ordinance flood zone restrictions and Federal Flood
Insurance standards, and through State building codes.
b. Local Resource Development Issues Relative to AECs
Applicability: Hertford County's natural AECs are geographically tied to floodprone areas
along major rivers. Archaeological and historical sites are often also near the waterways
as a result of ancient transportation routes. Resource development activities in these areas
may involve logging, agriculture, or industry. The Industrial Development Commission is
promoting the County for industries which utilize large amounts of water for cooling
a
II
L
40
purposes. Logging and agriculture are vital to the County's economy. New industry for
jobs is also an important focus.
Alternatives: The options are preservation, conservation, or exploitation. Caution is urged
with regard to overuse of river water as a cooling agent for industry in any important
nursery area since thermal pollution can disrupt habitats as severely as chemical pollution.
There are State and Federal regulations and incentives in place to protect wetlands and
suppress agricultural runoff.
Policy: . The approach shall be qualified exploitation. The policy shall be to support
protective measures in AECs but to encourage resource development activities which can
meet State and Federal and local standards.
Strategy: Implementation shall occur through enforcement of the County's AEC overlay
standards in the Zoning Ordinance which- require Environmental Impact Statements (EIS)
for development disturbing more than one acre of land; the enforcement of CAMA permit
standards, State building codes, Federal Flood Insurance standards; and support of Soil
Conservation initiatives and Corps of Engineers Dredge and Fill requirements.
Hazardous and Fragile Areas
Applicability: 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 environment.
These areas include lands adjacent to the Chowan, Meherrin and part of the Wiccacon
Rivers which are considered floodprone areas and should be protected from massive urban
type development. The wetlands (marshes and freshwater swamps) located along the rivers
offer quality wildlife and waterfowl 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
predominating the western half of the County and the sensitive areas consisting of the
Willbanks and Dorovan-Bibb-Wehadlee 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.
Hertford County has no Maritime Forests, pocosins, outstanding resources waters,
shellfishing waters, water supply areas other than well sites and few manmade hazards.
Military overflights are frequent occurrences.
Alternatives: The options are Preservation, Conservation, and Exploitation. 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 regulations 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 local citizens would not allow such permissive actions with
regard to historical and cultural sites.
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Policy. The approach shall be conservation. The County policy shall be to strictly enforce
the CAMA regulations and support and uphold the permitting process of State or Federal
agencies for fragile areas, including 404 Wetlands. No current policy is in place to protect
historic areas at the County level at this time. The zoning ordinance provides for an
Historic District but no areas are defined as such on the zoning map. The County will
designate such areas at the request of interested citizens. Military overflights are accepted
a by the County, .but there would be objection to any activity which interferes with use or
expansion of the County airport.
Strategy. The Zoning Ordinance is the primary implementation tool. It makes provision
for hazards such as floodprone areas and the airport as well as for the protection of
historical and cultural sites by allowing the establishment of Historical Districts. The
County supports the activities of historical societies in the towns where such organizations
exist. These groups of citizens are very active and are very protective of the historical sites.
d. Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Needs
Applicability: This topic is dealt with in great detail in Section E of this Chapter.
Inasmuch as the County is not one of the State's designated hurricane counties, this policy
does not need to be deeply detailed. Flood considerations are most relevant in this
section.
Alternatives: The County could commission a travel route study to determine potential
for hosting evacuees from other coastal counties. 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 to impose severe
restrictions of shoreline and wetlands areas in order to protect against loss of property.
This, too, may be unnecessary and unreasonably restrictive.
Policy: The policy the County shall support are efforts and actions spelled out in the
Hertford County Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan.
Strategy: The County will rely upon their Emergency Management Coordinator to
implement this policy.
e. Potable Water Supply
Applicability: 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 be nonetheless.
protected
Alternatives: 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, such as pesticides, that may infiltrate the water
supply.
Policy: The policy shall be to protect their water supply. The County supports State
standards regarding groundwater quality. The State's new Watershed Protection Act will
have an impact on development use and density allowed within developments.
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Strategy. Implementation will come about through the enforcement of their zoning
ordinance, building codes, and Health Department regulations. Application of pesticides
strictly according to package direction is encouraged.
f. Package Treatment Plants
Applicability: Soil_ suitability for septic tank use within the County is primarily
unsatisfactory and; without proper planning and design, can present a significant health
problem. Unsatisfactory performance of septic tank absorption fields can pollute
groundwater supplies. Soils with limitations for septic tank use exist within the Winton and
Cofleld areas. The restrictive features range from severe wetness and flooding to moderate
wetness.
Alternatives: The County could encourage the use of waterless package treatment systems
to protect their groundwater supply from possible pollution.
Policy: The policy is to allow package treatment systems which can meet State and local
requirements.
Strategy.. Enforcement of County and State ordinances are regulations already in place will
implement this policy.
g. Stormwater Run -Off
Applicability: Because of the topography of the majority of -the County, stormwater runoff
a is not too much of a problem. Ahoskie does; however, experience minor floodingin certain
portions of the town during heavy rain storms. Currently the County has no policy on this
issue.
Alternatives: The options include local adoption of stormwater runoff regulations or
no direct action at this time. -
Policy: The policy shall be to permit stormwater runoff along natural topographic contours
within the County's planning jurisdiction.
Strategy No strategy is required for implementation of this policy.
h. Marinas and Floating Homes and Dry Stack Storage
Applicability: At this time Hertford County has only one marina as defined by CAMA.
Tuscarora Beach, southeast of Winton, currently has a thirteen -slip marina and several
fishing and swimming piers. Permit application has been made to add another ten slips and
to install fuel tanks. No opposition to the permit has been heard. There are no floating
homes or dry stack storage facility for boats. If more of such development should occur,
regulations are in place in the zoning ordinance and building code that would provide
some controls. CAMA and the Army Corps of Engineers also regulate such projects.
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Alternatives: Options include development of specific standards or recognition of CAMA
standards. Currently there is no place to buy fuel on the Chowan River in Hertford
County.
Policy. The policy shall be to allow such projects which meet current CAMA standards.
Strategy: Implementation shall occur through evaluation of the County's zoning
requirement of Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) for each project which disturbs
more than one acre of land, and to support CAMA and Corps of Engineers permit
standards.
Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
Applicability. 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; however, as a means of protection for these areas, the County requires that
each industry prepare an Environmental Impact Statement or environmental assessment.
Alternatives: Options include prohibiting industry near fragile areas, restricting industry
placement and density, requiring buffers, or no restriction.
Policy. The policy shall be to assess the impact of potential industry on fragile areas prior
to any rezoning or permitting action.
Strategy: Implementation shall occur through investigation and evaluation of EIS prior to
County,actions or issuance of permits.
Sound and Estuarine System Islands Development
This issue does not relate to Hertford County in a direct way and no policy has been
established.
Restriction of Development Within Five Feet (5') Above Mean High Water
The CAMA Quarterly (Winter,1989) reports that a five-foot rise in sea level would displace
no people and only about 5% of the land area in. Hertford County.
Hertford County topographic maps show contours down to approximately six (6) meters
around most water areas; therefore, development within five feet of mean high water level
would only be found in wetland areas and would be required to meet special CAMA
standards already in place.
1. Upland Excavation for Marina Basins
Applicability: There are no upland marina projects at this time and none are anticipated.
Alternatives: The County could develop detailed restrictions to cover potential upland
excavation or the CAMA standards already in place could be followed.
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Policy: The policy shall be to support State restrictions and allow such activity as can meet
State standards.
Strategy. Implementation shall occur through support of CAMA permitting.
In. Damage to Existing Marshes by Bulkhead Installation
Hertford County contains several wooded swamps along the Chowan River Shoreline but
no designated marshes; therefore, no policy will be developed.
2. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
a. • Productive Agricultural Lands
Applicability. The importance of agriculture to Hertford County cannot be
over -emphasized. The County, through the soil survey, has identified and mapped its prime
agricultural land.
Alternatives: The County could adopt a policy that would be severely restrictive; however,
they have not felt the necessity of such action.
Policy: The County has chosen to support the State's regulatory position on this issue.
Strategy. The County will utilize ordinances now in place; such as their zoning ordinance
AEC overlay and this land use plan update to monitor and protect valuable agricultural
land. The County Extension Service and ASCS provide continual guidance with regard to
State regulations and compliance assistance to farmers.
b. Commercial Forest Lands
Applicability: The major land use within Hertford County is forestland. The County has
identified its forestlands through the soil survey.
Alternatives: The options include restriction of commercial activities or a "hands -off
approach:
Policy. The County has enjoyed a positive cooperative relationship through the years with
the commercial forestry industry. The policy has been and shall continue to be one of
accommodation for this industry.
Strategy. No implementation strategy is required beyond a continued spirit of cooperation
between government and forestry.
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C. Mineral Production Areas
aApplicability:
Only sand deposits represent mineral interests in Hertford County.
Alternatives: The options are preservation, conservation, or exploitation.
Policy: The approach shall be exploitation within those areas economically feasible. The
policy shall be to allow all such production which meets State and Federal standards.
Strategy: Implementation shall be to adhere to State and Federal permitting standards.
d. Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
Applicability- Commercial fishing activities are limited in number and seasonal in nature
and are regulated by the State Marine Fisheries Commission. Commercial enterprises,
located near Winton, Murfreesboro, and Tunis operate during the herring season. Other
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fishing activities are individual -type commercial ventures and operate on a very small scale.
Recreational fishing is widespread throughout the County on rivers and ponds. Bass fishing
tournaments are scheduled regularly on the Chowan River. The Chowan is considered an
important spawning area for a number of commercial species of fish but there are no
designated primary nursery areas. Trawling activities do not apply in Hertford County.
Alternatives: Options are to market and encourage exploitation of fishing activities or to
discourage extensive use for these purposes.
Policy: The policy shall be to encourage exploitation of this resource within the regulations
of the Wildlife Resources Commission and the Marine Fisheries Commission while
protecting habitat areas through continued water quality protection efforts.
Strategy. . Implementation shall occur through support of tourism and fishing industry
events.
e. Off -Road Vehicles
Applicability: The .rise of off -road vehicles as: a sport has created a problem in Hertford
. County. Hunters use these vehicles and cut through farmlands, sometimes damaging crops.
The Sheriffs Department reports few complaint calls regarding this activity.
Alternatives: Options are to prohibit use of off -road vehicles,- provide areas designated
solely for off -road driving or take no action.
Policy: The policy shall be to monitor off road activity and consider restrictions at such
time as a real problem exists.
Strategy: Implementation shall occur through listing of complaints through law enforcement
agencies.
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Development Impacts on Resources
Commercial development has followed the trend of the population within Hertford County
and growth has been steady but slow.
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.
Peat or Phosphate Mining
No such mining occurs or is likely to occur in Hertford County; therefore, no policy has
been developed on the issue.
3. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
a. Types and Locations of Industries Desired
Applicability: Economic and Community Development have been major issues during the
last updates of the CAMA Land Use Plan and remain a primary interest today. Since
Hertford County is economically underdeveloped, there is an obvious need for more
economic development. The County as a whole feels that a concerted effort must be made
a to promote and attract new industry. 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.
Alternatives: In the past five years; there has been a tendency toward reduction of existing
industry and development of small local operations. The County is also beginning to
experience growth as a military retirement location. These realities and opportunities
should be consideration when planning for the economic future. An industrial park has
been developed just off US 13 and NC 158 west of Winton which has water and sewer
services . available. The County will benefit from revision of the detailed Economic
Development Plan which consists of a well thought-out long-term strategy for encouraging
enlargement of existing industry as well as attracting new industry. The County's economic
developer has assessed available resources and actively pursues recruitment of appropriate
industries.
- Policy: The County's policy is to strongly support those organizations seeking to strengthen
development and provide additional jobs. The County also employs an Economic
Development Planner and depends on him to aggressively work toward improvement. The
County will not support. industries which degrade the quality of life.
Strategy. In order to comply with current zoning restrictions, all new industry locating in
the County must file a local environmental assessment or impact statement, and new
u industry locating in the County will be sited in the industrial zones designated by the
Official Zoning Map.
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b. Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development
Applicability. Organizations like the Industrial Development Commission and concerned
a citizens such as the Committee of 100 and Murfreesboro's Industrial Committee, which
coordinates activities through the Hertford County Industrial Development Commission,
have been created and are devoted to attracting industry to the County. The local
L1 governing bodies have made, and continue to make, efforts at obtaining Federal and State
�j funding to provide needed services.
Alternatives: Hertford County could develop a countywide water and sewer plan and set
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goals for establishing such a system over the next ten years to encourage development.
Even though the areas of greatest concentration of population are already serviced by
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municipal systems, the County has undertaken to update its water plan and to help provide
water systems for at least two townships. The County could possibly devise a cooperative
effort and assess the cost of providing services to areas most in need and likely to develop
for residential or commercial/industrial uses.
DPolicy:
The County's policy is to seek outside funding when possible or to commit limited
local dollars when necessary to provide such services in conjunction with the water plan.
Strategy: Situations requiring assistance will be evaluated on a township -by -township basis.
DApplicability:
C. 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 show that municipal
populations are shrinking although most new development over the past five years has been
located in and around incorporated towns. This would seem to indicate a high rate of out -
migration from the County.
Alternatives: The County has historically encouraged new development in urban areas
which provide public facilities and utilities. Without a countywide system of services this
is in the best interest of the citizens of Hertford County.
npractice
L 1
Policy: The County will continue to encourage urban development within existing urban
. centers.
Strategy. Discouraging high density development in the County's zoning jurisdiction will
focus growth in areas close to urban centers.
d.. Redevelopment of Developed Areas
Applicability: The trend in new development discussed in c. above would suggest that
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redevelopment or improvement of developed areas is occurring somewhat naturally since
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new building permits are concentrated in towns while those same towns are experiencing
decreases in population. Redevelopment in County jurisdiction has not received attention
since there are few developed areas along the waterfront in hazardous locations. Topsoil
erosion is not pertinent to the issue of redevelopment in this sense. Setback requirements
in the County's zoning ordinance would discourage redevelopment directly on waterfronts
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zoning. districts where erosion had taken a toll on existing development. With regard to zo
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which allow more intensive redevelopment than current uses, the County is very sparsely
a populated. There is hardly any area which would not accommodate more intensive
development or redevelopment. Improvement of housing conditions is an issue and the
County should take a leadership role in upgrading the housing stock.
Alternatives: The County could apply for Community Development Block Grant
Development Planning funds in order to assess existing housing stock and define current
needs. These Federal grants do require a financial commitment from local government.
The County could also offer incentives for private redevelopment in areas of special need.
Policy: The policy will be to seek out grant opportunities to provide funds for
rl neighborhood improvements and total community revitalization.
e. Commitment to State and Federal Programs
Applicability: 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. The Agricultural
Stabilization and Control Service and the Soil Conservation Service have consistently offered
a
assistance on erosion control methods in Hertford County. Highway improvements are of
particular concern in areas where peak traffic loads create a burden on the system. On the
other hand, the County has not addressed issues related to public access, port facilities,
dredging, and military facilities.
Policy: While supporting all State and Federal regulations, the County has no additional
policies related to these issues.
f. Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment Projects
aHertford
County is not involved in such projects; therefore, no policies have been set on
these issues.
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g. Energy Facility Siting
Applicability. 'Hertford County has recently been chosen by North Carolina Power as a
potential site for an electric generating plant near Frazier's Crossroads. Plans call for a
a
combustion turbine generator plant which will generate 300 megawatts of turbine capacity
by 1992. Power- generated would be tied into the basic system supplying North Carolina
and Virginia. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) exploration does not apply to Hertford
County. Inshore exploration would be impractical.
Alternatives: The County could discourage placement of such an electric generating facility
as it will require a large land area and provide few jobs. On the other hand, the County
could encourage development since such a facility will be taxed and will provide another
incentive to other industries.
Policy: The policy shall be to support siting of electric energy facilities provided the actual
sites can meet requirements of the North Carolina Utilities Commission and the County's
azoning
requirement for Environmental Impact Statements.
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Strategy. Implementation shall occur by careful review of environmental impact statements
and cooperation with any local regulatory amendments needed after appropriateness is
shown.
Tourism
Applicability. 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, countywide emphasis is not as strong. This is probably due to
the heavy emphasis placed on the regionwide Historic Albemarle Tour program which
encompasses eighteen counties in northeastern North Carolina.
. Hertford County does boast numerous historical, cultural, and archaeological sites
and some towns have local annual festivals.
Alternatives: The County could take a more active role in promoting tourism in the area
or it could continue to simply support local efforts by municipalities. The citizen survey
listed tourism as last priority; however, tourism is known to stimulate summer jobs and
service sector employment for the benefit of commerce in the County as a whole.
active role in promoting tourism.
Policy: The policy shall be to take a more p g
Strategy. Implementation shall occur through improved efforts through publicity.
i. Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access
aApplicabUity.
Beach and waterfront access are issues for Hertford County with regard to
estuarine areas. River access is mainly provided for a fee by private endeavors. Boat
ramps are available at Tunis, Murfreesboro, Harrellsville, and directly across the River from
Winton on the Gates County side of the Chowan River.
Alternatives: The County could investigate funding to acquire riverfront properties for
public access once the overall need is established. An inventory of all publicly -owned
properties has been compiled by the Land Records Department.
Policy: The policy will be to support efforts to locate outside funding for such projects.
Strategy. Zoning restrictions and a strict enforcement of CAMA regulations are used to
implement existing regulations which limit development along the riverbanks. A 1990
inventory of publicly -owned properties does not indicate any waterfront property currently
on hand.
j. Types, Densities and Location of Anticipated Residential Development
Inasmuch as Hertford County's projected population increase between 1990 and
2000 is 243 persons, representing 68 additional residences required for this growth; and
inasmuch as current utility services near the present population centers are adequate to
handle this increase with ease, the County has felt no need to set policy regarding this
issue. Recent trends suggest that development is occurring just outside incorporated areas
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as much as inside. This could ultimately pose problems with regard to delivery of services
a unless outlying area densities are conscientiously kept low. While the situation bears
watching, growth rates are not sufficient to warrant action beyond current zoning and
sanitary requirements.
The County continues to serve as a kind of bedroom community for Tidewater
Virginia. The _trend has been established in the noted daily commuter employment in the
marine industries located in southwest Virginia. Retirement populations from the military
in that area are also becoming a consideration. The County welcomes this residential focus
provided all local requirements can be met without expense to the County.
Within eighteen months (1992), Hertford County must close and cap its current
landfill. The County has signed a letter of intent to participate in a seven -county regional
landfill project now being pursued and involving a site in either Martin or Pitt County.
Projects costs per ton are rising, however, and the County may be faced with finding a local
site if ultimate fees make participation in the regional project unfeasible.
4. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
a. Public Education
Applicability. 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.
Alternatives: All Planning Board meetings are open to the general public and provide the
opportunity for public involvement. Meetings are publicized in the local newspaper and
agendas are posted on public buildings.
Policy: During this update process citizen input was requested. Response was very light.
The citizen opinion questionnaire. and its results are found on page 52.
b. Continued Public Participation
Applicability: Continuing public participation in the planning process is desired but difficult
to inspire in Hertford County. Except when faced with highly controversial issues, such as
the radioactive waste proposal, citizens are generally content with land use policies in the
County and will not routinely participate.
Alternatives: The Planning Board could consider developing a "speakers bureau" to speak
to civic organizations about planning issues. Periodic citizen opinion questionnaires could
also be administered such as the one conducted in conjunction with this plan update. The
Planning Board and County Commissioners should place news items in local papers
concerning each Planning Board meeting. News items on local radio stations concerning
planning are to be encouraged as well.
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Policy: The policy shall be to make regular efforts to draw more public participation.
Strategy: Implementation shall occur through attempting the options listed in number (2)
above.
Method of Obtaining Citizen Input
Applicability. During this plan update, several efforts were made to obtain citizen input.
Response was unimpressive. Articles regarding the Land Use Planning Process were
printed in the local newspaper. Meeting fliers were posted in outlying locations for an
initial public hearing which had no attendance from the general public. A citizen survey
was printed in the newspaper as well as kept on hand in the Planning and Inspections
Office; however, only forty-three (43) responses were received. Planning Board meetings
were publicized in the newspaper and agendas were posted in public places. The Planning
Board members acted as ambassadors to spread the word at their various civic and fraternal
functions. Targets for citizen input were those residents living in areas not covered by
existing CAMA Land Use Plans (roughly 10,500 persons over age 19). A meeting schedule
follows this section (page 56).
Alternatives: The County could and should improve its public information campaign
efforts, but a cursory cost -benefit analysis indicates that each land use survey response cost
the County over four dollars (based on cost to public vs responses received). Openness to
public comment and reasonableness of effort may be the best we can hope for when dealing
with the issue of public input.
Policy: It should be noted that average citizens tend to play a prominent role in Hertford
County government. The County does not employ a large number of technical experts to
support appointed citizen boards. While sometimes a drawback, perhaps this practice
causes decisions to be made which most accurately reflect the will of the people and most
closely satisfies their needs. In any case, extraordinary measures to force citizen
participation where none is desired would be a waste of scarce resources. Hertford County
respects and encourages the opinions and ideas of its citizens in all land use issues and will
continue.to provide ample opportunity for those who so desire to participate.
in
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PUBLIC SURVEY
Hertford County is currently updating its land use plan. Your input will be very helpful in
guiding our efforts. Please take a moment to fillout this survey.
The County is growing very slowly in population, but CHANGE is occurring all the- time.
Cropland is converting to poultry production. Manufacturing firms come (and sometimes go),
making more (or less) jobs available for local residents. New subdivisions offer housing
opportunities.
The following issues were identified in the 1986 Land Use Plan Update as concerns for Hertford
County. Are these still concerns? Please mark each issue according to the degree of
seriousness you feel it represents.
1=extremely serious; 2=moderately serious; 3=somewhat serious; 4=unimportant now
(3 points) (2 points) (1 point)
(0 points)
WEIGHTED
RANK
SCORE
1. Protection of Prime Farmland.
102
4*
2. Protection of Forestry Resources.
110
3
3. Wetland Protection.
80
7
4. Historic Preservation.
59
9*
5. Protection of Drinking Water Supply.
119
2
6. Failing Septic Tanks.
102
4*
7. Attracting New Industry.
120
1
8. Providing Water and Sewer Service to Unserved Areas.
86
6
9. Promoting Tourism.
45
10
10. Providing Countywide Water System.
73
8
11, Upgrading School Buildings.
97
5
12. Controlling Residential Development.
59
9*
13. Other (Writs In): See list attached.
129 Highest Possible Score
43 Total Surveys
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53
PUBLIC SURVEY ATTACBM NT
HERTFORD COUNTY
Responses listed for Number 13 "Other" on the Public Survey are as follows:
. Stop or control mobile home development
Recreation needs
Roadside dumpster/cans
• Waste/garbage service improvement
t Air pollution/environment
• River/stream pollution
Discipline in schools
Children bussed too far
Require minimum lot size of one (1) acre
• Attract non-polluting industry/attract tourists;
educated people.
a A RESOLUTION DESCRIBING THE 1990
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN
aIn accordance with 15NCAC7B.0207 regarding Public Participation in Land Use Planning efforts,
the Board of County Commissioners, Hertford County, North Carolina hereby adopts and supports
public educational efforts and participation techniques to assure that all segments of the county have
a full and adequate opportunity to be informed of proceedings and decisions relating to the Hertford
County 1990 Land Use Plan Update.
aPrescribed elements in the Public Participation Plan are enumerated below:
(1) The Hertford County Planning and Zoning Board shall be responsible for the supervision
of this project.
(2) In addition to the Planning and Zoning Board, wholly at the discretion of the Board of
County Commissioners, a sub -group designated as a supplementary ad hoc advisory group
may be appointed to ensure that diverse geographic, economic, ethnic, cultural and social
interests will be represented.
a A. The Hertford County Board of Commissioners shall appoint one (1) representa-
tive from each incorporated municipality which does not have its own Land Use
Plan, and other representatives from the County's Planning area to equal seven (7)
or more members.
(3) A series of news articles explaining the Land Use Plan Update process shall be provided
monthly to a newspaper of general circulation. Incorporated into these. articles will be
reports of Planning and Zoning Board meetings. The Board of County Commissioners may,
if it chooses, designate one week as "Land Use Planning Week" in Hertford County. If
perused, activities will be held in each municipality within the county which will familiarize
a the public with the Land Use Planning process. These activities will include but are not
limited to:
A. Distribution of printed material to schools, civic organizations and major employers
ain the county.
B: Speakers from the Mid -East Commission and/or the Department of Environment,
Health, and Natural Resources visiting Junior High and High School civics or
D geography classes and civic organization meetings.
C. Public meetings in each municipality with opinion surveys taken and public
comments heard.
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(4)
(5)
(6)
55
The public will be notified of opportunities for input by newspaper advertising, radio public
service announcements, handbills located at post offices and announcements sent to area
churches.
A. If opinion surveys are used to gather information regarding issues and policies,
either a random sample of residents will be chosen for a direct mailing or
B. The survey will be published in the newspaper and drop boxes will be set up for
responses.
All meetings of the Planning and Zoning Board are public meetings.
A public hearing shall be scheduled in March, 1990 to review existing policy statements
from the 1986 Land Use Plan. A public hearing shall also be held prior to local adoption
of the completed draft version of the plan, in accordance with 15NCAC7B.0402(a).
Diversity of viewpoints shall be accomplished in good faith through implementation of all
elements in this Public Participation Plan.
Adopted this the 16th day of January, 1990.
Chairman's Signature.
Hertford County Board of Commissioners
Fri
HERTFORD COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD
AND BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
MEETING SCHEDULE
HERTFORD COUNTY
LAND USE PLAN 1990
December 4, 1989
Board of Commissioners
Explanation of Update Process
December 12, 1989
Planning and Zoning Board
Explanation of Update Process and draft
of Citizen Participation Plan
January 9, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
Final Draft of Citizen Participation Plan
and begin Discussion of 1986 Policy
Statements
January 16, 1990
County Commissioners
Adopt Citizen Participation Plan
February 13, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
More discussion of 1986 Policies and
Review of Data changes since 1986
March 13, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
Public Hearing to Inform the public of
Update process and to Review 1986 Policy
Statements
April 10, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
Policy Assessment -1986 Policy Statements
May 8, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
More Policy Assessment - 1986
June 12, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board.
Begin Policy Statements for 1990 Plan
July 10, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
Final Policy Statements for 1990
August 14, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
Completed Draft of 1990 Plan
aSeptember
4, 1990
County Commissioners
Presented Draft to County Commissioners
September 17, 1990
County Commissioners
Authorization to send the 1990 Draft Plan
to CRC for Preliminary Review
March 12, 1991
Planning and Zoning Board
Revision of Preliminary Plan
May 20, 1991
County Commissioners
Public Hearing Prior to Local Adoption
EK
which allow more intensive redevelopment than current uses, the County is very sparsely
populated. There is hardly any area which would not accommodate more intensive
development or redevelopment. Improvement of housing conditions is an issue and the
County should take.a leadership role in upgrading the housing stock.
Alternatives: The County could apply for Community Development Block Grant
Development Planning funds in order to assess existing housing stock and define current
needs. These Federal grants do require a financial commitment from local government.
The County could also offer incentives for private redevelopment in areas of special need.
Policy. The policy will be to seek out grant opportunities to provide funds for
neighborhood improvements and total community- revitalization.
e. Commitment to State and Federal Programs
Applicability. 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. The Agricultural
Stabilization and Control Service and the Soil Conservation Service have consistently offered
assistance on erosion control methods in Hertford County. Highway improvements are of
particular concern in areas where peak traffic loads create a burden on the system. On the
other hand, the County has not addressed issues related to public access, port facilities,
dredging, and military facilities.
Policy: While supporting all State and Federal regulations, the County has no additional
policies related to these issues.
L Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment Projects
Hertford County is not involved in such projects; therefore, no policies have been set on
these issues.
g. Energy Facility Siting
Applicability: Hertford County has recently been chosen by North Carolina Power as a
potential site for an electric generating plant near Frazier's Crossroads. Plans call for a
combustion turbine generator plant which will generate 300 megawatts of turbine capacity
by 1992. Power generated would be tied into the basic system supplying North Carolina
and Virginia. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) exploration does not apply to Hertford
County. Inshore exploration would be impractical.
Alternatives: The County could discourage placement of such an electric generating facility
as it will require a large land area and provide few jobs. On the other hand, the County
could encourage development since such a facility will be taxed and will provide another
incentive to other industries.
Policy. The policy shall be to support siting of electric energy facilities provided the actual
sites can meet requirements of the North Carolina Utilities Commission and the County's
zoning requirement for Environmental Impact Statements.
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Strategy: Implementation shall occur by careful review of environmental impact statements
and cooperation with any local regulatory amendments needed after appropriateness is
shown.
Tourism
Applicability: 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, countywide emphasis is not as strong. This is probably due to
the heavy emphasis placed on the regionwide Historic Albemarle Tour program which
encompasses eighteen counties in northeastern North Carolina.
Hertford County does boast numerous historical, cultural, and archaeological sites
and some towns have local annual festivals.
Alternatives: The County could take a more active role in promoting tourism in the area
or it could continue to simply support local efforts by municipalities. The citizen survey
listed tourism as last priority; however, tourism is known to stimulate summer jobs and
service sector employment for the benefit of commerce in the County as a whole.
Policy: The policy shall be to take a more active role in promoting tourism.
Strategy. Implementation shall occur through improved efforts through publicity.
Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access
Applicability: Beach and waterfront access are issues for Hertford County with regard to
estuarine areas. River access is mainly provided for a fee by private endeavors. Boat
ramps are available at Tunis, Murfreesboro, Harrellsville, and directly across the River from
Winton on the Gates County side of the Chowan River.
Alternatives: The County could investigate funding to acquire riverfront properties for
public access once the overall need is established. An inventory of all publicly -owned
properties has been compiled by the Land Records Department.
Policy: The policy will be to support efforts to locate outside funding for such projects.
Strategy: Zoning restrictions and a strict enforcement of CAMA regulations are used to
implement existing regulations which limit development along the riverbanks. A 1990
inventory _of publicly -owned properties does not indicate any waterfront property currently
on hand.
Types, Densities and Location of Anticipated Residential Development
Inasmuch as. Hertford County's projected population increase between 1990 and
2000 is 243 persons, representing 68 additional residences required for this growth; and
inasmuch as current utility services near the present population centers are adequate to
handle this increase with ease, the County has felt no need to set policy, regarding this
issue. Recent trends suggest that development is occurring just outside incorporated areas
50
as much as inside. This could ultimately pose problems with regard to delivery of'services
unless outlying area densities are conscientiously kept low. While the situation bears
watching, growth rates are not sufficient to warrant action beyond current zoning and
sanitary requirements.
. . The County continues to serve as a kind of bedroom community for Tidewater
Virginia. The trend has been established in the noted daily commuter employment in the
marine industries located in southwest Virginia. Retirement populations from the military
in that area are also becoming a consideration. The County welcomes this residential focus
provided all local requirements can be met without expense to the County.
Within eighteen months (1992), Hertford County must close and cap its current
landfill. The County has signed a letter of intent to participate in a seven -county regional
a landfill project now being pursued and involving a 'site in either Martin or Pitt County.
Projects costs per ton are rising, however, and the County may be faced with finding a local
site if ultimate fees make participation in the iegional project unfeasible.
4. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
a. Public Education
Applicability: 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.
Alternatives: All Planning Board meetings are open to the general public and provide the
opportunity for public involvement. Meetings are publicized in the local newspaper and
agendas are posted on public buildings.
Policy: During this update process citizen input was requested. Response was very light.
The citizen opinion questionnaire and its results are found on page 52.
b. Continued Public Participation
Applicability: Continuing public participation in the planning process is desired but difficult
to inspire in Hertford County. Except when faced with highly controversial issues, such as
the radioactive waste proposal, citizens are generally content with land use policies in the
County and will not routinely participate.
Alternatives: The Planning Board could consider developing a "speakers bureau" to speak
to civic organizations about planning issues. Periodic citizen opinion questionnaires could
also be administered such as the one conducted in conjunction with this plan update. The
Planning Board and County , Commissioners should place news items in local papers
concerning each Planning Board meeting. News items on local radio stations concerning
planning are to be encouraged as well.
51
Policy: The policy shall be to make regular efforts to draw more public participation.
Strategy. Implementation shall occur through attempting the options listed in number (2)
above.
C. Method of Obtaining Citizen Input
Applicability: During this plan update, several efforts were made to obtain citizen input.
Response was unimpressive. Articles regarding the Land Use Planning Process .were
printed in the local newspaper. Meeting fliers were posted in outlying locations for an
initial public hearing which had no attendance from the general public. A citizen survey
was printed in the newspaper as well as kept on hand in the Planning and Inspections
Office; however, only forty-three (43) responses were received. Planning Board meetings
were publicized in the newspaper and agendas were posted in public places. The Planning
Board members acted as ambassadors to spread the word at their various civic and fraternal
functions. Targets for citizen input were those residents living in areas not covered by
existing CAMA Land Use Plans (roughly 10,500 persons over age 19). A meeting schedule
follows this section (page 56).
Alternatives: The County could and should improve its public information campaign
efforts, but a cursory cost -benefit analysis indicates that each land use survey response cost
the County over four dollars (based on cost to public vs responses received). Openness to
public comment and reasonableness of effort may be the best we can hope for when dealing
with the issue of public input.
Policy: It should be noted that average citizens tend to play a prominent role in Hertford
County, government. The County does not employ a large number- of technical experts to
support appointed citizen boards. While sometimes a drawback, perhaps this practice
causes decisions to be made which most accurately reflect the will of the people and most
closely satisfies their needs. In any case, extraordinary measures to force citizen
participation where none is desired would be a waste of scarce resources. Hertford County
respects and encourages the opinions and ideas of its citizens in all land use issues and will
continue to provide ample opportunity for those who so desire to participate.
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PUBLIC SURVEY
Hertford County is currently updating its land use plan. Your input will be very helpful in
guiding our efforts. Please take a moment to fillout this survey.
The County is growing very slowly in population, but CHANGE is occurring all the time.
Cropland is converting to poultry production. Manufacturing firms come (and sometimes go),
making more (or less) jobs available for local residents. New subdivisions offer housing
opportunities.
The following issues were identified in the 1986 Land Use Plan Update as concerns for Hertford
County. Are these still concerns? Please mark each issue according to the degree of
seriousness you feel it represents.
1=extremely serious; 2=moderately serious; 3=somewhat serious; 4=unimportant now
(3 points) (2 points) (1 point) (0 points)
WEIGHTED
RANK
SCORE
1. Protection of Prime Farmland.
102
4*
2. Protection of Forestry Resources.
110
3
3. Wetland Protection.
80
7
4. Historic Preservation.
59
9*
5. Protection of Drinking Water Supply.
119
2
6. Failing Septic Tanks.
102
4*
7. Attracting New Industry.
120
1
8. Providing Water and Sewer Service to Unserved Areas.
86
6
9. Promoting Tourism.
45
10
10. Providing Countywide Water System.
73
8
11. Upgrading School Buildings.
97
5
12. Controlling Residential Development.
59
9*
13. Other (Write In): See list attached.
129 Highest Possible Score
43 Total Surveys
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PUBLIC SURVEY ATTACBXIENT
HERTFORD COUNTY
Responses listed for Number 13 "Other" on the Public Survey are as follows:
• Stop or control mobile home development
• Recreation . needs
• Roadside dumpster/cans
• Waste/garbage service improvement
• Air pollution/environment
• River/stream pollution
• Discipline in schools
• Children bussed too far
• Require minimum lot size of one (1) acre
• Attract non-polluting industry/attract tourists;
educated people.
A RESOLUTION DESCRIBING THE 1990
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN
In accordance with 15NCAC7B.0207 regarding Public Participation in Land Use Planning efforts,
the Board of County Commissioners, Hertford County, North Carolina hereby adopts and supports
public educational efforts and participation techniques to assure that all segments of the county have
a full and adequate opportunity to be informed of proceedings and decisions relating to the Hertford
County 1990 Land Use Plan Update.
Prescribed elements in the Public Participation Plan are enumerated below:
(1) The Hertford County Planning and Zoning Board shall be responsible for the supervision
of this project.
(2) In addition to the Planning and Zoning Board, wholly at the discretion of the Board of
County Commissioners, a sub -group designated as a supplementary ad hoc advisory group
may be appointed to ensure that diverse geographic, economic, ethnic, cultural and social
interests will be represented.
A. The Hertford County. Board of Commissioners shall appoint one (1) representa-
tive from each incorporated municipality which does not have its own Land Use
Plan, and other representatives from the County's Planning area to equal seven (7)
or more members.
(3) A series of news articles explaining the Land Use Plan Update process shall be provided
monthly to a newspaper of general circulation. Incorporated into these articles will be
reports of Planning and Zoning Board meetings. The Board of County Commissioners may,
if it chooses, designate one week as "Land Use Planning Week" in Hertford County. If
perused, activities will be held in each municipality within the county which will familiarize
the public with the Land Use Planning process. These activities will include but are not
limited to:
A. Distribution of printed material to schools, civic organizations and major employers
in the county.
B. Speakers from the Mid -East Commission and/or the Department of Environment,
Health, and Natural Resources visiting Junior High and High School civics or
geography classes and civic organization meetings.
C. Public meetings in each municipality with opinion surveys taken and public
comments heard.
54
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(4) The public will be notified of opportunities for input by newspaper advertising, radio public
service announcements, handbills located at post offices and announcements sent to area
churches.
A. If opinion surveys are used to gather information regarding issues and policies,
either a random sample of residents will be chosen for a direct mailing or
B. The survey will be published in the newspaper and drop boxes will be set up for
responses.
All meetings of the Planning and Zoning Board are public meetings.
(5) A public hearing shall be scheduled in March, 1990 to review existing policy statements
from the 1986 Land Use Plan. A public hearing shall also be held prior to local adoption
of the completed draft version of the plan, in accordance with 15NCAC7B.0402(a).
(6) Diversity of viewpoints shall be accomplished in good faith through implementation of all
elements in this Public Participation Plan.
Adopted this the 16th day of January, 1990.
Chairman's Signature
Hertford County Board of Commissioners
56
HERTFORD COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD
AND BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
MEETING SCHEDULE
HERTFORD COUNTY
LAND USE PLAN 1990
December 4, 1989
Board of Commissioners
Explanation of Update Process
December 12, 1989
Planning and Zoning Board
Explanation of Update Process and draft
of Citizen Participation Plan
January 9, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
Final Draft of Citizen Participation Plan
and begin Discussion of 1986 Policy
Statements
January 16, 1990
County Commissioners
Adopt Citizen Participation Plan
February 13, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
More discussion of 1986 Policies and
Review of Data changes since 1986
March 13, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
Public Hearing to Inform the public of
Update process and to Review 1986 Policy
Statements
April 10, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
Policy Assessment -1986 Policy Statements
May 8, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
More Policy Assessment -.1986
June 12, 1990.
Planning and Zoning Board
Begin Policy Statements for 1990 Plan
July 10, 1996
Planning and Zoning Board
Final Policy Statements for 1990
August 14, 1990
Planning and Zoning Board
Completed Draft of 1990 Plan
September 4, 1990
County Commissioners
Presented Draft to County Commissioners
September 17, 1990
County Commissioners
Authorization to send the 1990 Draft Plan
to CRC for Preliminary Review
March 12, 1991
Planning and Zoning Board
Revision of Preliminary Plan
May 20, 1991
County Commissioners `
Public Hearing Prior to Local Adoption
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C. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, 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.
Ei�91C�7:7��:/_riI_\:7�7�i1111 s�3\!M[�]��i�il[�f�L•�
Applicability. Hertford County: contains a moderate range of storm hazard areas. These include
Areas of Environmental Concern such as: Estuarine Waters, Public Trust Areas, and Estuarine
Shoreline. Still other hazard areas include: flood hazard zones and special flood hazard areas as
noted on Hertford County's Flood Hazard Boundary Map and the Hazard Areas Map, 1990 located
on page 61.1.
a. Estuarine Waters act as a hatchery for many forms of aquatic life, and the Chowan and
Meherrin Rivers within Hertford County are considered Estuarine Waters.
b. Public Trust Areas are those areas whose benefits belong to the public whether for
commercial or recreational uses. The Chowan, Meherrin, Wiccacon Rivers and tributaries
are Public Trust Areas.
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 estuary. 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 floodplain 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 River.
d. Special Flood Hazard Areas are mapped by HUD in conjunction with the National Flood
Insurance Program. Areas designated in Flood Hazard AECs are "V" zones (floodprone
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. 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 100-year flood areas along the
Chowan River indicates that the majority of uses is devoted to forestry and temporary fishing camps.
There are three substantial areas along the Chowan River that are considered to be in floodprone
areas according to HUD Maps, panel number 370130-0003A,-0004A,-0005A, and-0006A. These
areas have approximately .112 structures and, may be affected in the event of storm surge or wind.
The tax base of the structures alone has been determined to be in excess of two million dollars.
No community in the County participates in the Federal Flood Insurance Program except the Town
of Ahoskie and the Town of Winton.
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.
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TABLE 12 Tax Value of Structures in Hazard Areas.
HAZARD TAX MAP
AREA (# OF STRUCTURES)
TAX VALUE
AREA I 6907 (3)
$ 31,033.00
6908 (2)
11,100.00
AREA II 6916 (4)
133,490.00
6916.02(4)
50,847.00
6926.13 (25)
324,844,00
6954 (6)
109,786.00
AREA III 6945.01 (14)
290,555.00
6945 (2)
139,156.00
6964.04 (32)
579,266.00
6964 (15)
319,628.00
6973 (5)
220,638.00
TOTAL VALUE 112
$2,210,043.00
Source:. Hertford County Land Records, July and August 1990.
Alternatives: The entire County is susceptible to the damaging forces of high winds. Smaller
portions of the area are also subject to flooding or erosion. Recognizing these factors, Hertford
County should take action to ensure that, in the event of a storm, damage to both public and
private facilities is minimized.
.Policy: To reduce damage -to public facilities and structures, it shall be the policy of Hertford
County to 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.. It is not financially practical for the
County to acquire land in hazard areas at this time. If opportunities present themselves in the
future, the County may consider such action.
As part of the zoning ordinance, the County enforces both AEC District restrictions and
Airport District restrictions which discourage high density development in hazardous areas.
Strategy: Damage to private property can be reduced by implementing programs and policies
which limit location and emphasize construction standards for new development. Hertford County
has adopted and enforces a range of policies and regulations which include the State Building Code,
County zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, mobile home park ordinance, and CAMA minor
use permits. These policies and regulations, if enforced, can limit damage to private facilities in
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the event of a major. The conclusion is that Hertford County is doing a good job in its endeavor
to mitigate future storm damages.
2. POST -DISASTER RECONSTRUCTION PLAN
Applicability: In accordance with the Land Use Planning Guidelines, references to the Hertford
County Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan and Emergency Management's responsibilities 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, assessing the nature and
extent of storm damage, and qualifying for State and Federal assistance. The second phase is
designated as the restoration period and is devoted to restoring community facilities, utilities and
essential 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.
Policy: Reconstruction, when permitted, will be in. conformance with existing building code
provisions as well as local ordinances and State and Federal laws. At this time it is believed that
storm threats are minimal in Hertford County and that existing local regulations have kept
development in hazard areas to a minimum. Should that belief be proven incorrect, the County
will reassess its restrictions prior to permitting long-term reconstruction in those areas. 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.)
Strategy. 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, and would serve in an advisory role to the County Commissioners to resolve policy
issues arising after a storm disaster during the reconstruction period.
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.
(2) Imposition .of Temporary Development Moratorium
Imposition of a temporarydevelopment moratorium is a useful tool to be
implemented by the County immediately following a disaster. This moratorium
would permit the County to deal with more pressing community recovery and
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reconstruction issues without having to devote its time and resources to reviewing
new development proposals. Minor repairs, such as replacing doors and windows,
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, 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
Reconstruction Plan. The Commissioners are empowered to delegate duties to
other agencies of local government to implement these policies and procedures.
(6) 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 priority 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." The issue of evacuation from one locale to another, if the situation arises, is only likely
to occur in the case of manmade disasters, and evacuation plans are currently being developed for those
alocations. Because of no past history involving evacuation in Hertford County we feel this is no real
threat to the County in a hurricane situation. 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 between Hertford County and the surrounding counties is so short, we feel time
61
estimates are not necessary. 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 completed in 1986 an analysis of the hurricane situation in North
Carolina. Thirteen counties have been designated as hurricane counties and Hertford County is not one
of them. Average elevation in the County is 72 feet above sea level.
. . I 0 . . . i . . C . . ■ T . . . .
K i1f K .. pl
Y E N T I E
H e r t f o r d Dun
hazards areas
1990
FLOOD HAZARD
® AIRPORT ZONE
1 ® FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS
CHEMICAL; HAZARDS
�I t s
�WINTON
C ° u N E Y
\ 1759�
17 2.5 5
V I L E S
0
s THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAP 44S FINANCED :P
s PART THROUGH A GPANT PROVIDED BY THE NCPTH
CAROLINA .:CASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, THROUGH
FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT -CI OF
o 1972, AS AMENDED, YHICH IS 4DMINISTERED BY TPF
OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTK PESOUR-E MAhAGEY._CT,
= NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRAiIOd
i
61.1
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VI. LAND CLASSIFICATION
a .
The land classification system has been developed as a means of assisting in policy implementation
by graphically delineating where certain policies will apply. This is particularly important at the State
and Federal levels of permitting since local ordinances are not readily available to these review agencies.
The system is intended to be supported by zoning, subdivision, and other local growth management
tools. The classification designations and local ordinances should be consistent with one another so that
the State will not issue (or fail to issue) permits against the will of the local government when options
are available. Boundaries of each class must be described as clearly as possible in the text as well as
on the map, and in order to clarify its intent, the local government should describe how the land
classification is linked to chosen policies.
Seven classes are included in the current land classification offered by the Coastal Area Management
Act: developed, urban . transition, limited transition, community, rural, rural with services, and
conservation. Local government may subdivide these classes into more specific subclasses. The classes
are defined by the types and densities of development present, existing and desired uses, and present
and future availability of services.
Applicable classifications for the Hertford County Planning Area include: Developed, Community,
Rural with Services, Rural, and Conservation. A Land Classification Map follows this chapter on page
65.1 and should be considered as the principal descriptive authority for each class. A map scale is
provided to assist in interpretation. Any agency which is unable to readily discern the County's
intentions is urged to contact the County Manager.
A. DEVELOPED
The purpose of the Developed class is to provide_ for continued intensive development and
redevelopment of existing cities and their urban environs.
Areas meeting the intent of this class are currently urban in character, meaning land uses such as
residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, and others at high to moderate densities. Minimal
undeveloped land remains. Municipal and public services including water, sewer, recreational facilities,
streets and roads, fire and police protection are in place or scheduled for provision in the short term.
Developed class residential areas have a density of three or more dwelling units per acre, a
majority of lots are 15,000 square feet or less and are provided with traditional services, or permanent
population densities are high and seasonal populations swell significantly.
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In Hertford County, the Developed classification will be defined as lands within ljurisdictions where
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the municipal government has its own land use plan.
B. URBAN TRANSITION
The purpose of this classification is to provide for future intensive urban development on lands that
are suitable and that will be provided with the necessary urban services to support intense urban
development.
Areas meeting the intent of this class are presently being developed for urban purposes or will be
developed in the next five to ten years. They are areas in transition from lower to higher intensity of
uses and are generally free from physical limitations for development. They.will require urban services.
They should be contiguous to existing developed areas. They may include areas being considered for
aannexation or other areas within the extraterritorial jurisdiction.
No Urban Transition areas will be designated in the County jurisdiction.
C. LEViI'IED TRANSITION
This class is intended for predominantly residential development taking place on lands with physical
limitations or in areas near valuable estuarine waters or other fragile natural systems. Sewers and other
services may be added here to protect against negative impacts of septic tanks rather than as an
incentive for intense development. The County has no policy to provide sewer service, even in areas
a with soil limitations, also current development patterns place most areas meeting the intent of this
classification inside the jurisdictions of existing municipal land use plans, therefore, this classification
will not be used.
a
D. CONMUNH Y
The purpose of the Community class is to provide for clustered, mixed land uses at low densities
to help meet housing, shopping, employment, and other needs in rural areas. Areas meeting the intent
of this class provide a local social sense of "community.". Very limited municipal type services such as
fire protection and community water may be available but sewer systems are not provided to encourage
development. "Crossroads communities are characteristic of this classification. In Hertford County the
Community classification will be used for incorporated areas which do not currently plan for themselves
and unincorporated areas which meet the intent of this class.
I
LEI
M.-
E. RURAL WITH SERVICES
The purpose of this class is to provide for very low density land uses including residential use where
limited water services are provided in order to avoid health problems. Rural water systems designed
to serve a limited number of customers may be in place but should not serve to encourage development.
The County anticipates helping provide water as needed on a township -by -township basis in the near
future.
F. RURAL
The purpose of the Rural class is to provide for agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction, and allied
uses associated with an agrarian region. Noxious or hazardous land uses may also be appropriate here
if sited to minimize negative impacts.
Areas meeting the intent of this class are characteristically very low density dispersed residential
development with on -site water and septic facilities. Other uses may include energy generating plants,
airports, sewage treatment facilities, fuel storage tanks, resource production industries, and other
industrial uses. Fire, rescue, and sheriff protection may be available. Population densities are very low.
Most of Hertford County falls into this classification. All areas which are not otherwise classified
will be considered Rural.
G. CONSERVATION
The purpose of the Conservation class is to provide for the effective long-term management and
protection of significant, limited, or irreplaceable areas. Management is needed due to natural, cultural,
recreational, scenic, or natural productive values of both local and extra -local concern.
Areas meeting the intent of this class are Areas of Environmental Concern (coastal wetlands,
estuarine waters and shorelines, public trust areas) and other sensitive areas such as "404 Wetlands"
(regulated by the Army Corps of Engineers), wildlife habitats, undeveloped forestlands, or
scenic/cultural/recreational/natural resources. This class is designed to illustrate the natural, productive,
scenic, cultural, and recreational features which make the coastal region a desirable place to live, work,
and visit. Because of their uniqueness, conservation areas should be developed only in a limited and
cautious way. Urban services, public or private, should not be provided in these areas as a catalyst to
stimulate development.
While the State's Coastal Management Program regulates development in AECs, their standards
are considered minimum. Local governments desiring a more protective development approach in these
65
areas may set their own, more restrictive standards within their land use plans and the State will honor
those standards in letting permits.
In Hertford County this class applies to undeveloped forestlands, estuarine waters and shoreline
along the Chowan River and the floodprone areas of the Meherrin and Wiccacon Rivers.
Undeveloped forestlands may be appropriate for a variety of uses, depending on topography, soil
conditions, etc. Proposals for residential or commercial development in those areas which meet local
ordinances and are able to pass septic permitting requirements will not be discouraged. Public Trust
Areas should be limited to water -dependent development.
0
4
t x/
/
/
/
/ n—
. • • . • . ■ • r • • e . . • t . • . .
IC
E E R f 1 E
Hertford C o u n t y
Land Classification
199 0
® Developed - CONSULT APPLICABLE MUNICIPAL LAND USE PLAN
C o 11111111 11 1 f. y
0 RuIal
Conservatio11
Note: Navigable waters are also included in this class.
S
C
�W1.NTON 0 `
-VQ�
of h
C G to
N T r
2.5 5
MI L E 3
a _
s THE PREPARATION OF TMIS MAP UAS FINANCED IF
: PART TMROUCH A CRAW PROVIDED BY THE NORTH
CARO-INA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PP.00RAM, TM.R0004
FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF
0 1972, AS AMENDED, UHICM IS ADMINISTERED BY THE
OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL PESOURCE MANAGEMENT,
= NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION
� 0mn7
65.1
VII. 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. With
the exception of the Conservation class, the land classification scheme closely approximates the zoning
map. This is because the County relies heavily on its zoning restrictions to reflect its stated policies.
A. DEVELOPED AND TRANSITION CLASSES
Hertford County has chosen. to encourage future development in and around its municipalities
where urban services can be provided at a minimum 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 residential 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 within different types of uses
such as homes, general and convenience stores, churches and school and will serve a fairly limited
immediate area. Intensive type urban development will not be encouraged in this classification.
G RURAL WITH SERVICES 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 classes, 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.
;::1
67
D. 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 classes, 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.
E. 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 aquifers; undeveloped forestlands;
and cultural and historical sites. Development in the Conservation class should be limited. The
County's intentions are addressed under Resource Protection.
I
0
I
I
I
VIII. INMRGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION
AND IWLEMENTATION
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.
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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 type of activities. Hertford County intends to foster intergovernmental
coordination by:
a. being a member of any organization of managers and/or mayors of the
municipalities within the County that may be organized.
b. appointing a County Planning Board composed of members from local
governments within the County.
C. showing that it is inclined to implement policies to foster agricultural
and forestry interests.
d. assuring that the zoning map conforms to existing municipal ordinances
where they are adjacent.
e. working with the State's Department of Cultural Resources in
protecting and enhancing its cultural, historical, and archaeological
resources.
f. issuing minor CAMA permits in strict accord with regulations.
g. enforcing State building and sanitary codes on the local level.
h. exchanging approved land use plans with all incorporated local
governments and with surrounding county governments.
68
HIGHWAY PROGRAM
GATES COUNTY
TOTAL
PRIOR
WORK TYPE
SCHEDULE
ROUTE/CITY' ID NO. LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
EST.
YEARS
(FUNDING)
FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR
COST
COST
EST. COST
(THOU)
(THOU)
(THOU)
90 91 92 93 94 95 96
US 13 R-2507 SR 1457'SOUTH OF WINTON TO THE VIRGINIA
36300
P
STATE LINE. (17.5 MILES) WIDEN EXISTING
D
ROADWAY TO A MULTI -LANE FACILITY.
R(T ) S00
i
C (T ) 7950
•
POST YEAR ROW AND CONSTRUCTION-27850
US 158 R-2578 * US 13 TO NC 32. (14.5 MILES) WIDEN
29600
P
�*
EXISTING ROADWAY TO A MULTI -LANE FACILITY.
POST YEAR ROW AND CONSTRUCTION-29600
US 158 R-2579 * NC 32 TO US 17. (16.1 MILES) WIDEN
30000
P
-�
EXISTING ROADWAY TO A MULTI -LANE FACILITY.
POST YEAR ROW AND CONSTRUCTION-30000
r+
NC 37 B-1200 BENNETTS CREEK. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 13
661
136
C(FA ) 525
CONSTRUCTION - FFY94
SR 1118 B-2138 TAYLOR MILL POND. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 63
216
R(S ) 16
RIGHT OF WAY - FFY92
C(S ) 200
CONSTRUCTION - FFY93
HIGHWAY PROGRAM
HERTFORD COUNTY
TOTAL
PRIOR
WORK TYPE
SCHEDULE
ROUTE/CITY ID NO. LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
EST.
YEARS
. (FUNDING)
FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR
COST
COST
EST. COST
(THOU)
(THOU)
(THOU)
90 91 92 93 94 95 96
US 13 R-2507 * SR 1457 SOUTH OF WINTON TO THE VIRGINIA
36300
P
STATE LINE. (17.5 MILES) WIDEN EXISTING
D
•
ROADWAY TO A MULTI -LANE FACILITY.
R(T ) 500
I
C(T ) 7950
•
POST YEAR ROW AND CONSTRUCTION-27850
INDICATES INTRASTATE PROJECT
ALL SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS
s
US 13
R-2205 * NC 42 TO THE WINTON BYPASS. (11.2 MILES) 30800 P
MULTI -LANE FACILITY WITH A BYPASS OF D
AHOSKIE ON NEW LOCATION. C(8 F j 000
US 158 R-2583 • MURFREESBORO BYPASS TO US 13. (8.3 MILES)
WIDEN EXISTING ROADWAY TO A MULTI -LANE
FACILITY.
US 158.,R-600 * MURFREESBORO BYPASS. (5.0 MILES) FOUR
LANE DIVIDED FACILITY ON NEW LOCATION.
NC 45
US 258
a
N NC 561
SR 1160
SR 1160
SR 1319
SR 1425
SR 1427
NC 45
B-1231 WICCACON RIVER. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 23
B-1229 MEHERRIN RIVER. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 9
B-1230 AHOSKIE CREEK. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 18
B-2047 POTECASI CREEK. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 29
90 91 92 93 94 95 96
�ir�
POST YEAR CONSTRUCTION-16800
15000
R(T )
4200 RIGHT OF WAY - POST YEAR
C(T )
10800 CONSTRUCTION - POST YEAR
11200
D
R(F )
2300
C(F )
8900
1143
13 R(FA )
30 RIGHT OF WAY - FFY93
C(FA )
1100 CONSTRUCTION - FFY94
3817
3817 ,C(FA )
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
868
868 C(FA )
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
319
R(NFA)
19 RIGHT OF WAY -.FFY93
C(NFA) 300 CONSTRUCTION - FFY94
B-2048
POTECASI CREEK OVERFLOW.
69
C(POC)
69 CONSTRUCTION - FFY94
REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 30
B-1233
BUCKHORN CREEK. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 3
185
66. C(POC)
119 CONSTRUCTION - FFY91
B-1232
FLAT SWAMP. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 38
219
40 R(S )
4 RIGHT'OF WAY - FFY91
C(S )
175 CONSTRUCTION - FFY92
B-2049
WICCACON RIVER. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 40
431
R(NFA)
31 RIGHT OF WAY - FFY92
C(NFA)
400 CONSTRUCTION - FFY93
Z-2207A
NC 45 IN COFIELD AT CSX RAILROAD CROSSING
41
41 C(RR )
FUNDED
642 351W. REVISE AUTOMATIC WARNING DEVICES.
NC 561 Z-2507A NEAR AHOSKIE AT NC&V RAILROAD CROSSING
642 343E. INSTALL AUTOMATIC WARNING DEVICES.
SR 1106 Z-2107A NEAR ABOSKIE AT CSX RAILROAD CROSSING
629 820P. INSTALL AUTOMATIC WARNING DEVICES.
SR 1407 Z-2307A NEAR COFIELD AT CSX RAILROAD CROSSING
642 349V. INSTALL AUTOMATIC WAR.YING DEVICES.
• INDICATES INTRASTATE PROJECT
65 C(RR ) 65 CONSTRUCTION - FFY92
57 57 C(RR ) FUNDED
65 65 C(RR ) FUNDED
ALL SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS
'
90 91 92 93 94 95 96
1ST STREET
Z-25078'
IN AHOSKIE AT NC&V RAILROAD CROSSING
65
C(RR ) 65 CONSTRUCTION - FFY92
629 8298. INSTALL AUTOMATIC WARNING DEVICES.
US•13
W-2316
SR 1101 TO PEACHTREE STREET. WIDEN EXISTING
270
20
C(HES) 250 CONSTRUCTION - FFY90
ROADWAY TO A 64 FOOT CURB AND GUTTER SECTION.
HIGHWAY PROGRAM
HYDE COUNTY
TOTAL
PRIOR
WORK TYPE SCHEDULE
EST:
YEARS
(FUNDING)
ROUTEXITY
ID NO.
LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR
COST
COST
EST. COST
(THOU)
(THOU)
(THOU) 90 91 92 93 94 95 96
NC 94
R-2564
FAIRFIELD TO COLUMBIA, UPGRADE EXISTING
SCHEDULED FOR FEASIBILITY STUDY BY DIVISION
ROADWAY AND ADD TWO FOOT PAVED SHOULDERS.
US 264
B-1234
CANAL. REPLACE.BRIDGE NO. 50
289,
51
R(FA ) 13 RIGHT OF WAY - FFY90
9
C(FA ) 225 CONSTRUCTION - FFY91
W
'
NC 12
F-2411
RE -ENGINE 'PAMLICO' & 'SILVER LAKE' FERRIES.
2000
C(SF ) 2000 CONSTRUCTION - FFY93
NC 12
F-2415
DESIGN REPLACEMENT FOR 'PAMLICO' 6 'SILVER
500
C(SF ) 500 CONSTRUCTION - FFY94
LAKE' FERRIES.
NC 12
F-2417
CONSTRUCT 'LARGE SOUND CLASS' FERRY
4500
C(SF ) 4500 CONSTRUCTION - FFY96
(REPLACEMENT FOR 'PAMLICO').
NC 12
F-2418
CONSTRUCT 'LARGE SOUND CLASS' FERRY
4500
C(SF ) 4500 CONSTRUCTION -'POST YEAR
(REPLACEMENT FOR 'SILVER LAKE').
NC 45
F-2414
RE -ENGINE 'HYDE' FERRY.
1000
C(SF ) 1000 CONSTRUCTION - FFY94
NC 45
F-2419
CONSTRUCT 'LARGE SOUND CLASS' FERRY
4500
C(SF ) 4500 CONSTRUCTION - POST YEAR
(REPLACEMENT FOR 'HYDE').
• INDICATES INTRASTATE PROJECT ALL SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS
a
f
A-5
A-6
A-7
APPENDIX B
STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATORY DEVICES
STATE REGULATORY DEVICES
AGENCY
LICENSES AND PERMITS
Department of Environment, .
Permits to discharge to surface waters or operate
Health, and Natural Resources,
wastewater treatment, plants or oil discharge
Division of Environmental
permits; NPDES permits (G.S. 1432-215)
Management
• Permits for septic tanks to be used for
industrial purposes (G.S. 143-215.3)
• Permits for withdrawal of surface or groundwaters
in capacity use areas (G.S. 143-215.108)
• Permits for air pollution abatement facilities
and sources (G.S. 143-215.108)
• Permits for construction of complex sources; e.g.,
parking lots, subdivisions, stadiums, etc.
(G.S. 143-215.109)
• Permits for construction of a well over 100,000
gals/day (G.S. 87-88)
Department of Environment,
Permits to dredge and/or fill in estuarine
Health, and Natural Resources,
waters, tidelands, etc. (G.S. 87-88)
Division of Parks and Recreation
Department of Environment, Permits to undertake development in Areas
Health, and Natural Resources,. of Environmental Concern (AEC)
Division of Coastal Management (G.S. 113A-118)
NOTE: Minor development permits are
issued by local government.
Department of Environment, Permits to alter or to construct a dam
Health, and Natural Resources, (G.S. 143-215.66)
Division of Land Resources
• Permits to mine (G.S. 74-51)
STATE REGULATORY DEVICES, continued
AGENCY
LICENSES AND PERMITS
Department of Environment,
Permits to drill an exploratory oil
Health, and Natural Resources,
or gas well (G.S. 113-391)
Division of Land Resources,
continued
Permits to conduct geographic exploration
(G.S. 113-391)
• Sedimentation erosion control plans for any
land -disturbing activity of over one contiguous
acre (G.S. 113A-54)
• Permits to construct an oil refinery
Department of Administration
Easements to fill where land are proposed
to be raised above the normal high water
mark of navigable waters by filling
(G.S. 146.6(c))
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 facility
that furnishes water to ten or more residences
(G.S..130-160.1)
!-?
FEDERAL REGULATORY DEVICES
AGENCY
LICENSES AND PERMITS
Army Corps of Engineers,
Permits required under Sections 9 and 10
Department of Defense
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 of 1972;
permits to undertake dredging and/or filling
activities
Coast Guard,
Permits for bridges, causeways, pipelines over
Department of Transportation
navigable waters; required under the General
Bridge Act of 1946, and the Rivers and
Harbors Act of 1899
Geological Survey,
Permits required for offshore drilling;
Bureau of Land Management,
Approvals of OCS pipeline corridor
Department of Interior
rights,of--way
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Licenses for siting, construction and operation
of nuclear power plants; required under the
Atomic Energy Act of 1954, and Title II of the
Energy Reorganization Act of 1974
Federal Energy
Permits for construction, operation and mainte-
Regulatory Commission
nance of interstate pipeline 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 pipeline and associated facilities under
Section 7C(b) of the Natural Gas Act of 1938
WE
APPENDIX C
SOIL TYPES IN HERTFORD COUNTY
TABLE C1. Soils with Severe Limitations for Septic Tanks.
SOIL
LOCATION OF
MAP SYMBOL
NAME
LIMITATION
TYPICAL PEDONS
Ata
Altavista
Wetness
SE of Como
BB
Bibb
Flooding, wetness
W of Murfreesboro
CaA
Caroline
Peres slowly
SW of St. Johns
CaB
Caroline
Peres slowly
SW of St. Johns
CrA
Craven
Wetness, peres slowly
NW of NC 561 & NC 35
CrB
Craven
Wetness, peres slowly
NW of NC 561 & NC 35
CrC2
Craven
Wetness, peres slowly
NW of NC 561 & NC 35
CrD2
Craven
Wetness, peres slowly
NW of NC 561 & NC 35
CsA
Craven
Wetness, peres slowly
NW of NC 561 & NC 35
Do
Donovan
Flooding, ponding,
poor filter
Meherrin Ferry Crossing
ExA
Exum
Wetness
S of Ahoskie
GoA
Goldsboro
Wetness
W of Britts Store
on SR 1310
Lf
Leaf
Wetness
S of Earleys on SR 1106
Ln
Lenoir
Wetness, peres slowly
W of Pilands Crossroads
Ly
Lynchburg
Wetness
S of State Line
near SR 1310
Ra
Rains
Wetness
W of Britts Store
on SR 1315
Ro
Roanoke
Wetness, peres slowly
1 mile S of Como
Se
Seabrook
Wetness, poor filter
SW of Barretts Crossroads
near US 258
TAB
Tarboro
Poor filter
SW of Barretts Crossroads
near US 258
To
Tomothley
Wetness, peres slowly
3.5 miles SE of Como
WaB
Wakulla
Poor filter -
E of Harrellsville
We
Wehadkee
Flooding, wetness
N of Barretts Crossroads
on SR 1310
Wn Wilbanks Flooding, wetness,
peres. slowly 2.8 miles S of St. Johns
WT Winton Wetness, slope Town of Winton
APPENDIX D
AGENCIES COORDINATING STORM PREPAREDNESS
B
AGENCIES COORDINATING STORM PREPAREDNESS
NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
State Office: Division of Coastal Management
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
P.O. Box 27687
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611
(919)733-2293
Field Office: Division of Coastal Management
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
1424 Carolina Avenue
Washington, North Carolina 27889
(919)946-6481
NORTH CAROLINA DMSION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
State Office: Division of Emergency Management
Department of Crime Control and PUblic Safety
a 116 West Jones Street
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611
(919)733-3867
Regional Office: Area Emergency Management Coordinator
NC Division of Emergency Management
P.O. Box 424
a Winton, North Carolina 27986
(919)358-1621
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
National Office: Federal Emergency Management Agency
500 C Street, SW
Washington, DC 20472
- Public Information: (202)287-0300
Publications: (202)287-0689
Regional Office: Federal Emergency Management Agency
Region IV
1375 Peachtree Street, NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30309
Public Information: (404)881-2000
Disaster Assistance Program: (404)881-3641
Flood Insurance Program: (404)881-2391
D-1