CAMA Workbook Land Use Plan-2006 (2)

TOWN OF BATH
CAMA WORKBOOK LAND USE PLAN
2006
PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH CAMA
WORKBOOK GUIDELINES TO
ASSIST TOWN OFFICIALS IN
DIRECTING FUTURE DEVELOPMENT AND
PROTECTING VALUABLE NATURAL RESOURCES
•
The preparation of this document was financed by Town funds. The NC Department of
Commerce, Division of Community Assistance, Washington Regional Office, provided
mapping assistance. Typist Linda Roberts provided excellent support services. The
Division of Coastal Management provided the Land Suitability Analysis and Map. The
Mid -East Commission assisted in population data matters.
0

Prepared by the Planning Board
•
2004 - 2005 members:
Rob Jenner, Chairman
Jackie Collins
Ellen Hardin
Jimmy Latham
Thomas Peele
Jack Piland
Buck Sitterson
2005 — 2006 members:
Buck Sitterson, Chairman
Ike Baldree
Jackie Collins
Josie Hookway
Chuck Maguire
Jack Piland
Jim Smith
FOR THE TOWN COMMISSIONERS 2004 — 2005:
Barbara Modlin, Mayor
George Mohorn
•
Barbara Morphet
John Taylor
Bazelle Womick
TOWN COMMISSIONERS 2005 — 2006:
Jimmy Latham, Mayor
Rob Jenner
George Mohorn
Barbara Morphet
John Taylor
And Town staff
M. E. "Bubs" Carson, Town Administrator
Marty Fulton, Town Clerk
Elna Lewis, Town Clerk
-Wayland Sermons, Town Attorney
With assistance from -
John Crew
Coastal Consortium Consulting Planners
116 Spruce Street
Washington, North Carolina 27889
252-946-4319

•
•
Table of Contents
Forward, Acknowledgments
I. Land Planning Background Information
II. Plan Development Process
III. Community Description
IV. Population
V. Age
VI. Income
VII. Housing
VIII. Changes
IX. Table I. Population Patterns
X. Table II. Income
XI. Recent Housing Construction Activities
XII. Table III. New Construction and Value — Bath Town Limits
XIII. Table IV. New Construction and Value — Bath ETJ
XIV. Table V. All Construction Town of Bath and ETJ: April 1997-April 2006
XV. Non Residential Land Uses
XVI. Table VI. Commercial, Office, Industrial and other Non Residential
Land Uses
XVII. Description of Public Access Sites and Facilities
XVIII. Existing Water Quality Conditions
XIX. Community Services
XX. Regulations, Plans, Ordinances
XXI. Land Suitability and Maps
XXII. Growth and Management Policies, Management Topics
and Management Goals
XXIII. Community Concerns, Vision and Planning Goals
XXIV. CAMA Land Use Plan Management Topics, Policies and Implementation
1. Management Topic — Public Access to Public Trust Waters
2. Management Topic — Water Quality
3. Management Topic — Natural and Manmade Hazards
4. Management Topic — Local Areas of Concern
5. Management Topic — Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
6. Management Topic — Land Use Compatibility
XXV. Future Land Use Classification and Map
XXVI. MAPS
• Existing Land Use
• Land Suitability
• Future Land Use
APPENDIX
• Citizen Participation
• Beaufort County Hazard Mitigation Plan — Bath Policies
1
11
Page
1
2
3
5
5
6
6
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
17
19
23
24
31
32
33
33
35
38
40
41
43
45
51

FORWARD ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS isThis Town of Bath's Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Workbook
Land Use Plan is the fifth effort in meeting the intent of the Coastal Resources
Commission's (CRC) land use planning guidelines. The Town previously
completed independent plans in 1980, 1986, 1991, and 1997. (In 1974, the first
year of CAMA Land Planning, the Town was included as a small part, a few
paragraphs of the Beaufort County Plan due to rules in place at that time.) The
1980, 1986, and 1991 Town plans were "full" land use plans complying with
rules at that time.
In 1997 the Town prepared a "Sketch" Land Use Plan. Then, according to
the CRC Planning Guidelines, small municipalities not experiencing rapid or
significant change or growth could prepare a plan of lesser volume and intensity
than a full land use plan as typically prepared b larger towns and counties. •
P YP Y P P Y g
Now in 2006, the CRC's 2000 Updated Planning Guidelines again
encourage, as was so in 1974, small municipalities to be a part of the county land
use plan. Optionally a small municipality could develop a "Workbook" Plan. Bath
choose this independent plan action as opposed to being a few paragraphs within
the Beaufort County Land Use Plan and not receiving the attention the Town
deems necessary to guide its future. Unlike previous years, the Town received no
planning funds from the state to undertake this effort. This Plan was financed
totally by the Town. Assistance from several entities occurred. First, the NC
Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance (DCM), Northeast

• Regional Office in Washington provided mapping assistance at only a material
supply cost. Terria Baynor, DCM's cartographer did yeoman mapping work for
the Town. The NC Division of Coastal Management, Washington Office,
provided base data for environmental resources and a land suitability map within
the Town's planning authority. The Town staff, Bubs Carson, Marty Fulton, and
Town Attorney Wayland Sermons spent time generating information and ideas for
the project. The Planning Board devoted numerous hours deliberating various
goals and objectives for the Town's future direction and was the primary
developer of the plan. Of course, Town elected officials ultimately adopted the
plan, which pushed the document to fruition.
This plan was produced in the public arena with due notice and adequate
opportunity for public involvement to ensure the democratic process was
followed.
iii

I. Land Planning Background Information
The Town of Bath has been heavily involved in the CAMA LUP process since
1974. Now in 2006, the Town will continue this involvement by shaping it's own future
as much as it can.
The CRC's most recent LUP guidelines provides for a workbook LUP; the intent
being a shorter, more concise document for smaller local governments that are not
experiencing the whole range of coastal management issues such as ocean shoreline
erosion, inlet migration, high density residential development, etc."
The CRC has developed a Manual to assist local governments in this process.
Information in the introduction to the Manual notes that it serves as a template to guide
local governments through the process of preparing a plan that meets the CRC guidelines
•
requirements. (The specific required elements of the Workbook Plan are contained in the
CRC's 2002 land use planning rules 15A NCAC 713 .0701 c(1). Thus the Manual is a •
guide, not a standard for measurement or a regulation to be followed rigidly. The Manual
does provide a suggested outline for workbook plans. The outline is as follows:
1. A brief introduction that identifies the community, the members of the steering
committee, and generally what was done to prepare the plan.
2. Background information
a. Existing land use map and description
b. Description of community growth areas
c. Land suitability analysis and map -comparison of land suitability with
projected growth areas
d. Description of public access sites and facilities
e. Description of existing water quality conditions
•
1

• 3. Community Concerns, Vision, and Aspirations
a. Summary of Community Concerns (worksheet)
b. Community Vision
c. Community Growth and Development Goals (worksheet)
4. Growth and Development Policies (worksheet)
5. Future Land Use Map
The Town of Bath interprets the language in the Manual and the suggested outline
as exactly that; guidelines and suggestions and has proceeded on its workbook plan with
that in mind. It has not interpreted these suggestions to be mandatory nor standards. Bath
has approached this LUP, as it has in the past, expecting wide latitude in how the plan
was developed, what it contains, its conclusions and fully believes it has now, as in the
past, met and usually exceeded the CRC's intent for LUPs.
• II. Plan Development Process
This Workbook Plan is the most recent in a series of plans developed by the Town
as noted earlier. One significant difference is in the past the Town received grant
assistance from the state in preparing its CAMA required plan. No assistance was
granted for this update; it is financed totally by Town resources, no small effort by a
community with limited resources. This is evidence as to how sincere and serious the
Town is in directing its future.
The Town Planning Board served as the entity preparing the plan. The Board
meets monthly. The Town staff, other state agencies, the Town Board and others noted
in the credit page and acknowledgments were also involved.
At the beginning of this process a Citizen Participation Plan was prepared and
carried out throughout the process to ensure the adequate provision for public input and
2

involvement. Citizens were given many opportunities to partner in the process. As in all
of its matters, the Town believes strongly in the democratic process and is confident it •
gY
has occurred during this LUP. The Citizen Participation Plan is contained in the
Appendix.
Throughout the process much lively discussions and fresh perspectives were
provided.
Ill. Community Description
Bath, located on the north side of the Pamlico River at the confluence of Bath and
Bath Creek is almost exactly in the center of the county. The municipal area covers 2.5
sq. miles, the extraterritorial area extends one mile from corporate boundaries.
Compared to other Beaufort County towns, Bath enjoys a relatively high elevation
throughout much of its planning area. Road access both east and west of the Town is
provided by NC 92 and US 264; access to the south is more problematic due to the
Pamlico River. Ferry service near Bayview is available or a longer road route through
Washington, then Chocowinity, then east on NC 33 allows visits to access Aurora and
further, Pamlico County. The Town's USGS map coordinates are 35° 28' 37.0" north
latitude, 76° 48' 51.3" west longitude.
Climate in the central North Carolina coastal plain is hot, wet summers and mild,
dryer winters. Area annual temperature is 61.9°F, average rainfall is 52.8", snowfall
±2.3". Bath enjoys these weather features. This region also experiences many hurricanes
and tropical storms; Bath is no exception. The 1990's were particularly active with
Bertha, Fran, Dennis, and Floyd being of note. So far during the 2000's, several storms
•
3

• occurred that affected Bath, but fortunately during both decades, the town suffered
relatively little damage.
Bath is well known locally, throughout the region, the state, nationally and
internationally for its long and colorful history. It was the first incorporated town in
North Carolina and served as one of the important ports in colonial North Carolina. The
first North Carolina General Assembly met here. As many know,,Blackbeard the Pirate
resided in Bath occasionally. The Town holds and/or participates in many local
historical events and celebrated its 300t' Anniversary in 2005. A revival of the play
Blackbeard, Knight of the Black Flag occurred during 2005.
Significant land in the Town's planning area is agricultural, forested or vacant. A
very small percentage is used for manmade purposes, primarily housing, roads,
• institutional, businesses and one industry. Except along the waterways, few constraints
to develop exist, thus much land is suitable for future development.
Bath continues today to be a small rural community that values its history and
abundant natural resources. The Town wants to continue its low density, predominately
single-family residential character. A 2004 zoning ordinance amendment to prohibit
multi -family units is a clear message. Revision to subdivision regulations occurred
during 2006. It's historic character is well established and will continue through the
Town's historic district provisions and a large state presence at the Historic Visitor
Center. Emphasis on maintaining water quality and modest economic development
hopefully will contribute to a quiet and tranquil historic and residential community; the
essence of the Town's desires.
40
4

IV. Population
The U.S. Bureau of the Census the NC Office of State Planning, the State •
, g,
Demographer and other various agencies prepare census information so all levels of
government have a consistent knowledge of numbers of people. This data includes
characteristics in various topics such as age, ethnic origin, people per household, income,
etc. For municipal planning purposes for Bath's Workbook Plan, selected data was used
to present a "snapshot" over time of forces affecting the Town.
Unfortunately, methods of data collection, including the data categories
themselves, change over time so as to be confusing to the casual user. Nonetheless,
census data can be useful and information in the following tables attempts to provide
some insight.
The Town's population continues to increase. In 1995, the,Town had 190 people
living within its borders, in 2003 that number was estimated at 265. The Town's state •
required water supply plan discussed later estimates 300 people in 2010 with subsequent
increases over the ensuing decades. Since the 1997 Plan, the Town's population has
steadily increased as has that of Beaufort County. Other county municipalities'
populations have vacillated both up and down, but Bath continues to grow.
V. Age
Age of population can be used as indices of overall vitality. In 1990, persons 55
and over in Bath were estimated to be 43; in 1994 that number was 50. The year 2000
US Census data shows 105 persons in that category compared to 12,326 for Beaufort
County. The Town's population is aging presumably due to natural aging processes as
is
5

• well as older people migrating into the area for retirement, etc. and perhaps younger
people leaving the area for employment, etc.
VI. Income
Income, closely related to buying power and prosperity, has also changed in the county,
Bath and the state. Bath's median family income and per capita income has risen since
1990. However, in 1990 town figures rivaled or exceeded both the county and state. The
following income table represents this data.
VII. Housing
Local housing data which follows, compared with population growth, business,
etc. shows the Town continues to be a growing desirable community in which to live and
predications are for that trend to continue.
VIII. Changes
• The data above and in the followingtables illustrate a recent "picture" of Bath and
p
environs and shows a small, dynamic, historic and predominately single-family housing
community.
J
6

IX. Table I
Population Patterns3 •
Beaufort County and Municipalities
1995 — 2003
Locality .1995' 1996 1997 1998 1999 20002 20012 20022
20032
Beaufort Co. 43,645 43,567 43,918 44,083 44,755 44,958 45,287 45,481
45,566
Aurora 640 654 650 649 677 583 581 581
580
Bath 190 185 183 196 185 275 281 280
265
Belhaven 2,212 2,244 2,240 2,261 2,289 1,968 1,961 1,957
1,929
Chocowinity 809 801 795 790 798 733 729 728
724
Pantego 170 169 169 168 173 170 171 171
No data
Washington 9,421 9,298 9,943 9,959 10,109 9,619 9,658 9,730
9,677
Washington 482 478 477 475 492 440 440 440
440
Park
•
1) Source LINC, Office of State Planning, 1995-1999 Data
2) US Census Site, 2000-2003 Data
3) LINC Definitions note, in part, the following data definitions:
IMPORTANT: The municipal estimates for any year are generated independently
from those of other years. This practice allows flexibility for improvement in data
sources and methods from year to year. Furthermore, changes in municipal
populations are heavily influenced by annexations. For these reasons, population
should not be used to track year-to-year trends for municipalities. Instead, its
value for the year of interest should be compared with values of census counts to
show growth. However, population can be. used at the county level to show year-
to-year trends.
4) Population (Census/Estimate/Projection) (501): Depending on the year, this is the
corrected census count (April,l census year), or the estimate or projection from
the State Demographer (April 1 census years, July 1 all other years). A projection
differs from an estimate in that it relies on certain assumptions about long-term
trends in data, which are not yet available, while, an estimate is based on data
from predictor variables that are available for the estimate year.
7

X. Table II
INCOME
Beaufort County, Bath, The State
1990 -2000
Median
Mean
Median
Per
Total
Less
Less
10-
15-
25-
Fm.
Fm.
Hshd
Capita
Families
Than
Than
14.9k
24.9k
49.9k
50k+
Income
Income
Income
Income
5k
10 k
Beaufort
Co.
1990
11,885
724
1,101
1,158
2,686
4,230
1,986
26,010
31,765
21,738
19,722
2000
12,
1,339
938
1,872
4,212
4,633
37,893
42,293
31,066
16,722
994
Bath
1990
36
3
2
8
5
5
13
31,250
49,237
13,000
17,042
2000
88
7
0
7
20
60
58,125
62,468
50,625
23,029
The
State
1990
7,942
113,149
154,241
343,889
720,567
420,692
31,548
38,064
26,647
12,885
2000
2,173,336
128,836
99,830
255,706
692,083
496,891
46,335
39,184
20,307
•
Source: Federal Agency Data: Bureau of Census - Census of Population and Housing;
Mid -East Commission.
8

XI. Recent Construction Activities 0
New construction activities, or building starts, are good indicators of a
community's growth and vitality. Obviously new construction typically bring more
people, even if only seasonally, who in turn bring new needs for goods and services.
These needs typically stimulate the economy in positive ways so that municipal life can
proceed in a comfortable manner.
As shown in the Town's 1997 Plan, 25 building permits were issued for new
housing construction within the Town Limits and 14 permits were issued for constriction
within the ETJ totaling thirty-nine (39) permits issued between November 1991 and
November 1996. The Beaufort County Planning and Inspection Department provides this
service for several towns and throughout unincorporated Beaufort County. Bath
construction data indicates the attractiveness of the Town and environment as a place to
live.
•
Records obtained from the County Inspections office show new development
since April of 1997 through April 2006. Within Town limits, 29 permits were issued for
the time period and the stated building value totaled over seven million dollars.
Records for the Town's ETJ for the same time period showed 47 permits were
issued totaling $7,579,148 in value.
Clearly development since 1997 exceeded that of the five years prior to 1997, and
again demonstrated the Town and ETJ as a desirable place to live. The following tables
illustrate this data and the reader will also note the geographic distribution pattern: a
strong desire of people wanting to live along the water within Town Limits or the ETJ.
Total development within the planning area is shown on Table V.

• Total new development since 1997 for which 76 permits were issued totaling
$14,792,158 is significantly more development than that shown in the 1997 Plan.
XII. Table III
New Construction and Value
Bath Town Limits
1997 — April 2006
Month
Day
Year Location Value Use
4-30-97
Lot 9 Back Creek Estates
$135,000
Dwelling
12-30-97
203 Main Street
$175,000
Dwelling
4-15-98
Craven Street
$180,000
Dwelling
10-9-98
116 Main Street
$160,000
Dwelling
2-1-99
202 Main Street
$120,000
Dwelling
3-17-99
Springdale Village
$94,000
Dwelling
6-2-99
101 Carteret Street
$200,000
Dwelling
6-14-00
Hardy Point
$400,000
Dwelling
2-22-00
Lot 9 Village at Bath
Not Listed
Dwelling
• 2-12-01.
112 Heron Lane
$151,000
Dwelling
2-12-01
105 Heron Lane
$201,900
Dwelling
5-23-01
108 Heron Lane
$220,000
Dwelling
7-11-01
Springdale Village
$119,300
Dwelling
6-18-02
1 Heron Lane
$172,000
Dwelling
7-3-02
16 Fenwick Drive
$160,000
Dwelling
1-6-04
Lot 7 Fenwick
$112,000
Dwelling
1-6-04
Lot 1 Fenwick
$112,000
Dwelling
9-20-04
103 Fenwick
$150,000
Dwelling
10-12-04
114 Main Street
$130,000
Dwelling
6-2-05
424 Carteret Street
$30,000
Storage
6-12-05
107.Shore Drive
$12,000
Accessory
10-24-05
426 Craven Street
$18,000
Addition
12-15-05
423 Carteret Street
$81,000
Addition
1-10-06
110 S. King Street
$36,724
Concession
1-24-06
114 S. Main Street
$30,000
Addition
3-23-06
124 S. King Street
$15,000
Elevation
3-24-06
103 S. Main Street
$40,000
Dwelling
3-24-06
116 Waterside
$9,000
Addition
4-12-06
110 S. King Street
$3,949,086
New Building
29 Permits Issued
$7,213,010
Various
• Source: Beaufort County Planing and Inspection Department Data
10

XHI. Table IV
New Construction and Value •
Town of Bath Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
1997 - April 2006
Month
Day
Year Location Value Use
5-6-97
101 Teach's Point Road
$50,000
Dwelling
9-3-97
Lot 24 Teach's Cove
$290,000
Dwelling
11-4-97
Lot 22 Kirby Grange Road
$85,000
Dwelling
11-18-97
Lot 16 Catnip Point
$225,000
Dwelling
1-4-98
Brook Road
$130,000
Dwelling
2-23-98
228 Kirby Grange Road
$290,000 '
Dwelling'
6-23-98
Lot 7 Catnip Point
$350,000
Dwelling
7-30-98
Lot 1 Blackbeard View
$145,000
Dwelling
8-19-98
Lot 19 Teach's Cove
$120,000
Dwelling
4-26-99
Lot 24 Catnip Point
$232,000
Dwelling
5-7-99
Lot 11 Teach's Cove
$240,000
Dwelling
5-21-99
Lot 22 Teach's Cove
$108,000
Dwelling
8-9-99
Lot 26 Teach's Cove
$239,000
Dwelling
11-16-99
Blackbeard's View
$150,000
Dwelling
12-10- 99
Lot 25 Teach's Cove
$160,000
Dwelling
3-21-00
178 Catnip Point
$186,000
Dwelling
4-2-00
Springdale Village
$20,000
Dwelling
4-26-00
Lot 23 Teach's Cove
$124,000
Dwelling
6-22-00
Lot 7 Catnip Point
$248,500
Dwelling
1-03-01
134 Catnip Point
$266,763
Dwelling
2-7-01
264 Teach's Cove
$150,000
Dwelling
3-12-01
110 Teach's Point
$250,000
Dwelling
5-18-01
64 Cool Point Road
$350,000
Dwelling
5-23-01
293 Teach's Cove
$280,000
Dwelling
9-2-01
114 Catnip Point
$275,000
Dwelling
10-4-01
144 Catnip Point
$263,164
Dwelling
11-29-01
Lot 12 Teach's Cove
$150,000
Dwelling
4-29-02
155 Teach's Cove '
$230,000
Dwelling
10-20-03
3 N Teach's Point Road
$150,000
Dwelling
11-6-03
402 Kirby Grange
$106,000
Dwelling
12-12-03
86 Glebe Creek
$70,000
Dwelling
4-15-04
Lot 24 Kirby Grange
$142,000
Dwelling
9-24-04
1365 Teach's Point
$198,000
Dwelling
12-15-04
154 Catnip
$25,000
Garage
12-28-04
5160 NC 92E
$60,000
Building
?-06-05
168 Catnip
$238,800
Dwelling
?-06-05
5221 Jackson Swamp
$180,000
Dwelling
8-15-05
1347 Teach's Pt.
$118,699
Dwelling
9-26-05
767 Cool Pt.
$40,000
Remodel
•
11

•
XIII. Table IV Continued
Month
Day
Year
Location
Value
Use
10-24-05
674 Brooks Rd.
$25,000
Addition
11-9-05
764 Brooks Rd.
$117,222
Dwelling
1-6-06
127 N. Teach's Pt.
$35,000
Storage
1-12-06
24 Teach's Cove
$170,000
Dwelling
2-26-06
1163 Teach's Pt. Rd.
$140,000
Dwelling
3-9-06
32 S. Teach's Pt.
$20,000
Addition
3-24-06
400 Kirby Grange
$200,000
Dwelling
47 Permits Issued
$7,579,148
Various
Source: Beaufort County Planning and Inspection Dept. data
XIV. Table V
All Construction Town of Bath
and Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
•
April 1997 — April 2006
Permits
Value
Town of Bath
29
$7,213.010
ETJ
47
$7,579,148
TOTALS
76 $14,792,158
Source: Beaufort County Planning and Inspection Dept. data, Coastal Consortium
is
12

XV. Non Residential Land Uses: 2006
As was the situation shown in the 1997 plan, non-residential land uses in the •
Town's planning area consists of services, tourism and water oriented business. In 1997
there were 43 non-residential uses available and recently, 41 non-residential uses were
noted. Three new uses were added between 1997 and 2006; however, several of the uses
in place in 1997 are no longer in existence, so the overall number of changes has been
modest.
The distribution pattern of non-residential uses remain similar to that of 1997;
most service businesses located along Carteret Street (Highway 92) include groceries,
craft, clothing, marine services, a restaurant, banking, etc. Other non-residential uses are
more dispersed and are noted on Main Street, Harding Street, King Street, and Craven
Street.
Non-residential land uses typically are dynamic, changing from time to time is
based on market forces, individual decisions, and other factors. Suffice it to say that since
the last plan, non-residential uses in Town have been fairly stable, indicating the local
economy can support those uses in healthy ways. The Town should continue to expect
some modest changes in non-residential land uses within the Town's planning area in the
future, and short of extraordinary stimulus, such as a major new industry, future changes
will likely be similar to those seen in the last two decades.
In land use planning jargon, "conflicting land uses" exist when one land use
provides a negative social or economic action on its neighbor. The Town's Zoning
Ordinance provides strong compatibility amongst uses and no serious conflicting land
uses were noted.
13

•
•
is
A list of commercial, office and institutional, industrial and other uses within the
Town and extraterritorial area are noted in the following table.
XVI. Table VI
Commercial, Office, Industrial, Institutional and Other
Non -Residential Land Uses
Bath Planning Area
June, 2006
1. Church of God
2. Harbour Motel and Marina
3. Bath Community Library
4. Historic Bath Visitor Center
5. BHS (vacant)
6. USPO
7. ABC Store
8. Southern Bank
9. Rich Company Real Estate
10. BVFD
11.Old Town Country Kitchen
12. Brooks
13. Landlocked Storage (Quarter Deck)
14. Ruritan Building
15. Crystal Clean Car Wash
16. Quarterdeck
17. Charcoal Service Corp. (CSC)
18. Gateway Church of Christ
19. BUMC
20. Glebe House
21. Pirates Treasurer Novelty & Gift Shop
22. Ed Teach Cottage
23. Bonner House
24. Bath Elementary School
25. BWM Trucking
26. Bath Christian Church
27. Old BVFD (vacant)
28. The Hair Shoppe
29. Barrett Construction/Old Country Realty
30. Telephone Switch/Substation
Source: Town of Bath Staff survey.
14
31. St. Thomas Church Noe Building
32. Blackbeard Deli
33. Van Der Veer House
34. Town Office
35. Star Properties Real Estate
36. Palmer -Marsh House
37. Swindell's Cash Grocery (Vacant)
38. Wooden Store (Historic Site Owns) vacant
New
la. My Sisters Antique
lb. Inn on Bath Creek (Bed and Breakfast)
lc. Mini Storage (Barrett & Associates
Id. Beth Niser Photography

XVH. Description of Public Access Sites and Facilities
The NC Coastal Management program has historical) been involved in helping•
g P g Y
provide non waterfront property owners with access to the coastal public trust waters to
which the public has rights of access. Grant funds are available annually for local
governments to purchase and improve property for that reason, or to improve already
publicly owned waterfront property. Historically, the emphasis has been on the ocean
shoreline, but during the past two decades local governments with non -ocean shorelines
have also been eligible for assistance.
Within the Town of Bath, the Town owned public waterfront property is along
south Main Street where the Town office is located and a small parcel on Craven Street.
The Town received one grant from the Coastal Management Public Access program for
improvements to the property on Main Street. Improvements included a bulkhead,
gazebo, landscaping and handicapped access facilities. Limited on -street parking is •
P g
available.
However, there are other public access facilities available within the Town. The
State of North Carolina owns a public temporary boat -docking pier immediately adjacent
to the Town office building, affording access opportunities. Limited on street parking is
available. The State also owns significant waterfront property at the south end of Main
Street, along Front Street and at Bonner's Point. While contact with the water is
prohibited here, the public can stroll the shoreline, picnic, and conduct other recreational
activities. Events such as weddings are not uncommon on this site with prior approval by
the State through the local Historic Site Visitor Center. Designated parking is available
and approximately 10-15 vehicles may park here and along the Bonner's Point area.
•
15

• No public restroom facilities are available at any public site. All sites can,
however, accommodate bicycle parking. All serve the immediate Town and environs, but
the state site at Bonner's Point frequently has numerous out of area visitors. All public
sites in the Town support urban development and provide access to urban waterfronts.
Visitorship to the Historic Bath Visitor Center can give some indication of the
level of activities here. Note the following figures:
Number of
Year Visitors
1998 23,084
1999 21,443
2000 20,776
2001 21,726
• 2002 22,276
2003 18,900
2004 14,609
(Through October)
The Center has 10=15 parking spaces.
Source: Historic Bath Visitor Center Staff
While not "public access" in the technical sense of the term, access to public trust
waters is also provided by two private marinas in Town. The Harbor Motel and Marina
on Bath Creek and the Quarterdeck on Back Creek do, for a fee, provide boat docking
and launching facilities. The public at large may for a fee obtain access to public trust
waters at both sites. Users do have parking and bathroom facilities. Some limited
• products and services are available: ship store, boat launching and docking, etc. These
16

facilities serve that segment of the public that chooses to use them and do provide limited
urban waterfront access opportunities.
is
XVIII. Existing Water Quality Conditions
Workbook guidelines emphasize two criteria for water quality condition: use
support designations provided by the State's Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR), Division of Water Quality (DWQ) and shellfish harvest waters
classification. The latter does not apply to Bath.
DWQ provides some information for those surface waters within the Town's
authority as follows:
State data on the quality of surface water in watersheds notes the types of uses,
which should be or are being supported in each water body. Each of the four categories of
surface water is Full, Threatened, Partial and Non -supporting. Surface waters with tidal
influence (i.e. having salinity) have the prefix of "S". Several use classes for these •
surface waters include SB and SC. Use class indicates the type use a water body is or
should be supporting. For example, class SB waters primarily support recreational uses
including swimming while SC waters should support aquatic life propagation and
survival, agriculture, secondary recreation including infrequent swimming and non-food
related uses. Additional supplemental classes also may apply. For example "Outstanding
Resource Waters" (ORW) is used to identify a particularly high quality water for natural
resource production. Also "Nutrient Sensitive" notes additional nutrients may result in
depleted oxygen or other reactions. ORW's do not exist in Bath.
•
17

Bath Creek and Back Creek are both classed SB except in the upper reaches
• where SC applies. All tributaries within the planning area are SC according to data
PP P g g
supplied by the state. Both creeks and tributaries are also classed as "Partially
Supporting" and "Nutrient Sensitive". Bath also recognizes the NC Wildlife Resources
Commission has designated Bath Creek as an Inland Primary Nursery Area and any
applicable rules apply. The Town of Bath also considers both Bath and Back Creeks and
their tributaries in this category. Bath is within the Tar -Pamlico River Basin and subject
to the Tar -Pamlico Nutrient Management Strategy. This state program deals with
development and permitting along the shoreline of Bath and Back Creeks and tributaries.
Rules called the Pamlico -Tar River Basin Riparian Buffer Rules were developed by the
State Environmental Management Commission and are administered by the State's
Division of Water Quality. These rules essentially overlap and/or are contiguous with
• CAMA permitting rules. Bath Creek and tributaries are also classed as Nutrient Sensitive
P g
•
Waters according to State water quality personnel. The Town of Bath also considers both
Bath and Back Creeks and their tributaries in this category
Bath has a long, consistent history of concern of water use and quality issues. Policies
in the Town's previous Land Use Plans and Updates consistently support high quality
water. The Town's zoning pattern reflects this concern as only two small areas along the
Town's shoreline permit commercial uses. The recent rezoning to prohibit multi -family
housing, thus reducing density also supports water quality principals. The Town's
Subdivision Ordinance ensures some level of site review that can be said to have positive
18

water quality implications. The Town's participation in the minor CAMA permit program
continues to shows this commitment. •
XIX. Community Services
In modern times, the provisions of several municipal services are necessary to
protect the health, welfare and well being of citizens residing in towns. The most
essential of those services are briefly discussed below.
Water System
The Town's original independent water system was expanded in the late 1990's
with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to connect to the Beaufort
County water system. This addition provides Bath with added supply for emergencies
such as fire protection, hurricanes, etc. It also allows the Town to perform scheduled
maintenance at the town owned pumping facility without service interruptions.
The Town's two wells that draw groundwater from the Castle Hayne aquifer are •
alternated monthly. Average daily use in 2002 was .024 mgd (million gallons daily) and
maximum use was 0.30 in May of that year. Residential use accounts for 69.5% of water
use; institutional uses total 11.5% while commercial use number 13%. Only about 6% is
unaccounted. .
The Town is permitted to pump 100,800 gallons per day (gal/day) from the two
wells the Town operates according to water quality personnel in the Washington Office
of DENR. Therefore, the Town's capacity is that amount. State officials also advise the
Town's water supply is the Castle Hayne Aquifer. The capacity of the aquifer is
unknown, but believed to be more than adequate for the Town's need. County maximum
•
19

capacity that serves the ETJ is unknown but county officials believe it is more than
adequate to serve any future development therein.
The Town's current Water Supply Plan required by the state, includes the following
population and water use estimates.
Year Population Use
2010 300 .026
2020 315 .027
2030 331 .029
Wastewater System
In the late 1990's, the Town was successful in obtaining grants and loans to fund
a one million dollar expansion of its 1987 collection and treatment system. Included in
• the -project were a new lagoon, new chlorination system and a solid set spray system on
property acquired for that purpose. (The Town has a non -discharge system, which means
•
discharges. are treated, settled then sprayed on land resulting in no direct discharge into
surface water.)
Due to various site concerns, the new state discharge permit was issued at .022
mgd. The Town is presently operating slightly below the permitted capacity and efforts
are underway to increase discharge capacity. Purchasing additional spray sites and
investigating regional wastewater systems are being considered. The present conditions
would prohibit any large scale development taking place and wastewater services would
be necessary. Currently as noted, the Town may consider on a case by case basis private
treatment systems only for large-scale development beyond the Town's treatment ability.
20

Solid Waste
David's Sanitation Services provides solid waste disposal for the Town. •
P P
Collection is made on Thursdays of each week and recycling is also provided. Bath
continues to participate with Beaufort County's use of regional disposal facilities outside
the county. The Town continues to provide a Solid Waste Management Plan as required
by the state.
Fire Protection
The Town continues to be served by its volunteer department located on Carteret
Street. During the day 25-30 volunteers are available to respond, with more available at
night. Bath continues its mutual aid agreement with other area departments if necessary.
Recent improvements in equipment include: in 1998 a 1000 gal pumper/tanker, 2001 a
1000 gal pmper/tanker, and 2003 a 1800 gallon tanker. These equipment improvements
and added water supply have improved the Town's insurance ratings since 1997. The •
Town's rating is nine and within 1000 feet of a hydrant outside the Town the rating is
seven. The NC Department of Insurance rates fire protection systems on a 1-10 scale with
one being the highest. The City of Washington rates a five, Belhaven a six.
Police Protection
The Town continues to rely on the Beaufort County Sheriff's Department for
police protection. Since the 1997 Plan, the Sheriff's Department has added additional
personnel and continues to provide 24 hour, seven day a week services throughout the
county.
21
•

• Roads
The. NC Department of Transportation provides maintenance to roads on the state
highway system and the Town does routine maintenance on all public streets within
Town limits. No specific problems were noted with roads or streets within the Town. All
new public streets continue to be built to DOT standards.
Recreation
While the Town has no formal organized recreation program, opportunities do
exist locally. During summer months a volunteer program is conducted at the elementary
school, sponsored by the county and a small user fee is charged.
Bath and Back Creeks continue to be heavily used for water oriented recreation
during warmer months. Concern for safety, noise, water quality and aesthetics are now,
as in 1997, expressed by Town officials.
T ihrnriPc
Brown Library and Beaufort -Hyde -Martin Regional Library in Washington are
available for Town residents as is the Community Library on Carteret Street.
Schools
Beaufort County continues to provide public education functions in Bath. Area
students attend Northside High School or Bath Elementary School depending on grade
level.
Town Administration
Changes to the Town's office on Main Street have occurred since the 1997 Plan.
Building fagade improvements, landscaping and handicapped access have improved the
building and grounds and provide access to public waters. Office hours are still 9-12
22 .

Wednesday's and Friday's. Town staff still consists of an administrator and deputy clerk.
Building permits and inspections are conducted by Y employe countes. Local minor
CAMA development permits and zoning interpretations are provided by Town staff and
the Town Attorney. The Mayor -Council form of government, with elections every two
years has not changed since the 1997 Plan.
XX. Regulations, Plans, Ordinances
Land use planning practice necessitates a review of activities carried on at the
local, county, state and federal level that in some way affect the community that is
preparing a plan.
Thus, the Town's Subdivision Regulations administered by Town staff ensures
the division of a larger parcel of land into smaller parcels for sale will provide adequate
lot size, access, drainage, and other matters so a buyer will have assurance the property
can be used for its intended residential purposes.
The Town's Zoning Ordinance ensures compatibility of adjacent land uses,
adequate setbacks from property lines, reasonable height of structures, etc. This gives
property owners some amount of certainty their investments will be protected.
The Town's Historic District Ordinance likewise protects the integrity of historic
features so that new construction, additions, etc. are appropriate within the district.
The Water Supply Plan and the Wastewater Disposal Plan required by the state,
assists the Town in providing these services over time as the Town population changes.
County septic tank regulations, building, electric and plumbing codes ensure these
services are provided in ways that protect property owners and the community from
unsafe or unhealthy building practices.
23
•

State rules such as sedimentation and erosion controls also protect the public
0
interest in these matters. CAMA Pregulations major permits ensure some level of
consistency in shoreline development so private actions do not interfere with the.integrity
of the public's right to use public trust resources.
US Army Corps of Engineers regulations for 404 and other wetlands also reflect the
national interest in maintaining the open, unrestricted navigability of public trust waters.
Bath participates in the Beaufort County Hazard Mitigation Plan as some other small
towns within the county also do. Areas at risk, population/structures at risk and
mitigation policies specific to Bath are included in detail in that document which may be
consulted on these matters. The Mitigation Plan may be reviewed at the county
manager's office in Washington. Policies from the Mitigation Plan applicable to Bath are
included in the Appendix of this document.
is Bath's directly and indirectly in the above and other similar processes
participation
help to protect the public's rights and interests in matters affecting public health, safety,
and welfare.
XXI. Land Suitability and Maps
Subchapter 7B of the North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC 15A) is the
source that determines the contents of land use plans. This Code makes a distinction
between a Core Plan and a Workbook Plan as discussed earlier in this document. Bath
meets the criteria for a Workbook Plan.
As previously noted Workbook Plans are simplified plans that address community
development since the Town's last plan, an evaluation of community facilities and their
adequacy and goals for the future.
24

All land use plans, both Core and Workbook, must contain a land suitability
analysis, LSA, and a Land Suitability Map. The purpose of this requirement is for the is
Town to acknowledge and evaluate natural characteristics and manmade facilities that
make certain areas of the community more suitable for development than other areas. It
also notes natural resources that because of their coastal importance should be avoided
for development. This principal has also been discussed previously.
The Division of Coastal Management (DCM) has developed a sophisticated
computerized program to assist in this process. It is based on the state's Geographic
Information System (GIS). This GIS is becoming standardized throughout North
Carolina's 100 counties. DCM's computer program is thus prepared on a county basis.
Additionally, and unfortunately, when this county generated data is reduced to the
town level, it has very serious technical limitations for the information to be used in
meanin f it was as intended. For these and other reasons DCM will supply this data and •
g Y PP Y
mapping for towns preparing Workbook Plans and is included here.
The following table and data notes describe the LSA for Bath. Often some or
many of the natural systems or manmade systems overlap. For example, an area within a
flood zone may also include manmade features such as state lands or significant natural
heritage areas. Each of the areas to be considered, titled "Layer Name" in the table is
weighted. The intent here is to assign a value on each data layer item based on its
perceived importance.
Overlaying this information produces varying degrees of opaqueness as shown in
the DCM supplied Land Suitability Map. For example areas shown as having "no
suitability", light pink, have resources or features so important, fragile or valuable that
•
25

• they have no suitability for development. Areas with "low suitability", light orange, have
more than "no suitability" but not as much as "low -medium suitability," dark orange for
is
•
development and so on.
Even with the LSA limitations for municipal application, it is evident that much
of the Town's planning area is suitable for development, and important natural resources
can be targeted for protection. As discussed earlier various federal, state, county and local
regulations concerning development can and are valuable tools to ensure Bath's
continued productive management of it's natural and manmade resources and the LSA
and map can be considered as part of this process.
----Criteria and Rating- --
Layer Name
Least
Suitable
Low
Suitability
Medium
Suitability
High
Suitability
Assigned
Weight
Percent
Weight
Multiplier
0
-2
1
2
CoastalWetlands
Inside
Outside
Exceptional and
Substantial Noncoastal
Wetlands
Inside
Outside
Estuarine Waters
Inside
Outside -
Protected Lands:
Inside
Outside
Federal Lands ''
Inside
Outside-'
State Lands
Inside
Outside
Beneficial Noncoastal
Wetlands
Inside
Outside
1
4.167
0.04167
High Quality Waters
Inside
Outside
1
4.167
0.04167
Storm Surge Areas
Inside
Outside
2
8.333
0.08333
Soils with septic
limitations
Severe
Moderate
Slight
1
4.167
0.04167
Flood Zones
Inside
Outside
2
8.333
0.08333
Significant Natural
Heritage Sites
<500'
>500'
2
8.333
0.08333
Land Application Sites
<500,
>500'
1
4.167
0.04167
Hazardous Substance
Disposal Sites
<500'
>500'
1
4.167
0.04167
NPDES Sites
<500'
>500'
1
4.167
0.04167
Wastewater Treatment
Plants
<500'
>500'
1
4.167
0.04167
Municipal Sewer
Discharge Points
<500'
>500'
1
4.167
0.04167
Airports
<500'
>500'
1
4.167
0.04167
Developed Land
>1 mi ''
.5-1 mi
<.5 mi
1
4.167
0.04167
Primary Roads
>1 mi
.5-1 mi
<.5'mi
2
8.333
0.08333
Water Pipes
> 5 mi'
.25-.5 mi
<.25 mi
3
12.500
0.12500
Sewer Pipes
> .5 mi
.25-.5 mi
<.25 mi
3
12.500
0.12500
Total
24
100.000
1.00000
Assigned weight: 1 = Important 2 = Very important 3 = Most important for development
FM

Sources: William B. Farris, Frederick Steiner, The Living Landscape; Beaufort County Land Suitability Analysis;
Kaiser et al, Urban Land Use Planning; review by Onslow County Planning Department. •
Layers Not Used in Carteret County:
Land Application Sites
Water supply watersheds
•
•
27

DCM/CGIA November 2004 •
DCM Land Suitability Analysis
Appendix 1 Data Notes
The following notes describe data (1) used in the draft map and (2) not used in the draft map.
1. Data used in the draft land suitability map
Coastal wetlands - Salt/brackish marshes (wetland type 1 from the Division of Coastal
Management's coastal wetlands data) and freshwater marshes (wetland type 2).
Non -coastal wetlands - Wetlands, excluding coastal wetlands, that have exceptional or
substantial functional significance; data are classified in DCM's Coastal Region Evaluation of
Wetland Significance (NC CREWS) database.
Non -coastal beneficial wetlands - Using the non -coastal wetlands layer created above, the data
were queried for "OWR = 1 or OWR -1 ". The value 1 represents beneficial wetlands, and -1
represents wetlands that were unable to be rated, but are still regulated by DCM.
Estuarine waters - Salt waters classified as "SA", "SB" or "SC" by the Division of Water
Quality. The land suitability model uses water polygons (and intersecting 1-acre grid cells) as a
proxy for the concept expressed in the coastal management rules -estuarine waters with a
• shoreline buffer of 75 feet.
Protected lands - lands managed for conservation and open space (CGIA 2001) include federal,
state, local and nonprofit property and easements that permanently preclude private development;
does not include military lands, private forests, and incidental open space around public facilities.
•
Other areas currently not suitable for development large holdings of lands not likely to be
developed including military lands, university campuses, and other public properties not
permanently protected as open space.
Storm surge areas - hurricane storm surge inundation areas, fast moving storm, from 1993
study, all hurricane categories.
Soils (septic limitations) - detailed county soil surveys with septic limitation identified by soil
type.
Flood zones - all 100-year (A) and velocity (V) zones in Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map data
(NC Dept. of Emergency Management - NC Floodplain Mapping Program), with the exception of
those areas lying within the Cape Fear River Basin where FEMA Q3 flood zone data is used.
28

DCM/CGIA November 2004 •
HQW/ORW Watersheds - High Quality Water/Outstanding Resource Water watersheds from
Division of Water Quality (DWQ.
Water supply watersheds - Among coastal counties, water supply watersheds apply to Camden,
Pasquotank, and New Hanover counties only.
Natural heritage areas - Significant natural heritage areas from NC's Natural Heritage Program.
Hazardous Substance Disposal Sites - Formerly called Superfund sites.
Historic property - State-owned historic sites are available as a selection from state owned
property.
NPDES sites - Major and minor NPDES sites from the Division of Water Quality.
Wastewater treatment plants - Point locations from public water and sewer data (Rural Economic
Development Center (REDC) program in late 1990s); may overlap with NPDES sites.
Discharge points -Wastewater treatment plant discharge points (REDC); may overlap with
NPDES sites.
Land application sites - Point locations where wastewater is applied to land by a public system
from (REDC) data.
Airports - Airport boundaries from CGIA. •
Developed land - Land cover classified as developed based on percent impervious surface in
satellite imagery, 1996 land cover; high intensity plus low intensity developed.
Roads - Primary roads from CGIA; street centerlines are too dense for analysis.
Water pipes - Water pipes from REDC data, not available in Tyrrell, Pamlico and New Hanover
counties.
Sewer pipes - Sewer pipes from REDC data, not available in Tyrrell, Pamlico and New Hanover
counties.
Community facilities and supplemental data - Data were furnished by the Division of Coastal
Management (not converted to grids) to be used in conjunction with the land suitability map:
public schools, hospitals, community colleges, public universities, hurricane evacuation routes,
railroads, primary nursery areas, and marinas; county data may be added such as fire stations and
fire districts.
•
P

DCM/CGIA November 2004
• 2. Data considered for land suitability, but not used in draft map
Public trust waters - Not mapped in digital format, but are adequately represented by estuarine
waters for the land suitability model.
Ocean hazard areas/ocean erodible areas - Not available in digital format, but the areas are
covered by hurricane storm surge inundation areas and velocity zones in the floodplain layer.
Inlet hazard areas - Not available in digital format, but the areas are covered by hurricane storm
surge inundation areas and velocity zones in the floodplain layer.
Historic districts - The only current data in digital format are state-owned historic sites, of which
there is only one in the coastal region: the former US Coast Guard station on Hatteras Island; this
area was not included in the model but could be added for Dare County if desired.
Archeological sites - Current digital data not available; requires site -specific consultation.
Maritime forests - Included in exceptional non -coastal wetlands in CREWS data.
Mineral resources - Data not available in digital format.
Shellfish areas - Most areas suitable for commercial harvest are included in HQW/ORW.
• Areas of Environmental Concern - Site -specific areas that are not mapped in digital format;
areas are likely covered by other coastal environmental layers in the land suitability model.
0
Soils with erosion hazards - Available in woodland management and productivity table in
detailed soil survey; would require extra processing for those selected soil types.
Un-vegetated beach area - Coincident with hurricane storm surge inundation areas and velocity
zones in floodplain data.
Wellhead protection areas - Data creation in process by Source Water Assessment Program;
future use possible.
30

XXII. Growth and Management Policies, Management Topics and Management Goals
The State's Administrative Rules for CAMA Land Use Plans, 15NCAC 7B, •
include the requirement that plans contain policies in certain categories to help achieve
the local government's goals and aspirations. Policies are loosely defined as a set of
guiding principles to be used to this end. They differ from regulations in that policies
cannot be measured, while regulations (zonings, subdivisions, etc.) do include specific
dimensions to be followed in land development. This policy requirement has been in each
evolution of plans and updates since 1974 when CAMA was enacted into the law of the
land.
In this evolution of plan updates, the administrative rules have taken a slightly
different approach to policy development than in previous years, especially for the new
Workbook plans.
Now there are six management topics that are to be included in each workbook •
plan. Each topic has three parts: a management goal, planning objectives, and plan
requirements. The following summary attempts to explain each management topic.
Summary of Land Use Plan
Management Topics and Management Goals
Public Access — to maximize community access to public trust
waters.
Land Use Compatibility — to minimize the direct and secondary
impacts of land use and development on natural and manmade
features.
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity — to insure that water, sewer and
roads are appropriately sized, located and managed so that quality and
productivity of AECs and other fragile resources are protected or
restored.
Natural Hazard Areas — to conserve the storm protection functions
of flood plains and other coastal features in a manner that reduces the
community's vulnerability to natural hazards.
31
•

• Water Quality — to maintain, protect and enhance water quality in
coastal rivers, streams and estuaries.
Local Areas of Concern — to integrate local land use planning and
development concerns and goals with overall goals of CAMA.
Management topics, goals, community concerns, vision planning goals, and
policies are all inextricably entwined.
XXIII. Community Concerns, Vision and Planning Goals
The current Manual for Developing a CAMA Workbook Plan calls for a
section that provides a summary of planning concerns, a vision statement, and
growth and development goals.
The later subject, being very important to Bath, will be incorporated later in
the Growth and Management Policies section, as they are the real essence of the
Town's desires.
• Community Concerns — In an effort to assist in this exercise a "worksheet"
•
approach is suggested to address each of the management topic categories. However
the reader must understand that in its 1997 plan, Bath noted within six general policy
categories, 40 separate issues the Town felt important and ultimately developed 160
specific policies to address them. Currently many of those issues still are valid and
many previous policies are still relevant.
Vision Statement — This requirement "depicts in words and images what the
community is striving to become through the land use planing process."
A similar requirement existed in 1997 as a prelude to the then policy sections
and proved no easy task. Now, as before, the Town has many visions for its future
and articulating only one is not an easy task.
32

Nonetheless, the Town of Bath wants to maintain its low density
predominately single-familyresidential character, reserve its historic character •
p ,
attract economic activities that provide for the local community and achieve all of
those activities in ways that conserve the greatly valued water and other natural
resources within the Town's planning area.
XXIV. CAMA Land Use Plan Management Topics, Policies and Implementation - This
section of the Workbook Plan intends to be reflective of and support Bath's vision
statement as stated earlier.
1. Management Topic - Public access to public trust waters.
(a) Management Goal — Bath continues to support access to public trust waters within
its planning jurisdiction.
(b) Planning Objective — Bath recognizes and supports CAMA's access rules as
included in NCAC Chapter 15A Subchapter 7M. The Town will continue to
ensure public access in ways that will meet or exceed state and federal
environmental regulations insofar as it is authorized.
1. Policies and Implementation— All policies are continuing activities, some •
enforced locally, some by state and federal regulations.
(a) Bath continues to be alert to opportunities and will continue to support and
provide public access to waters within its planning jurisdiction for a range
of users including recreational boaters, fishing, swimming, local residents,
and tourists.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing and ongoing
• Implementation: Bath will use local subdivision and zoning ordinance
for enforcement and also rely on state and federal enforcement where
applicable.
(b) All public access ways must meet or exceed applicable standards for site
location, design, facilities, parking, handicapped features, refuge
collection and disposal, and environmental considerations.
Schedule for Implementation: Continuing activity
Implementation: Bath will use local subdivision and zoning ordinance
for enforcement and also rely on state and federal enforcement where
applicable.
•
33

• (c) Bath supports safe recreational uses of public trust waters within its
jurisdiction and will maintain a balance between the need for water safety,
water quality and environmental protection for access sites.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing activity
• Implementation: Bath will use local subdivision and zoning ordinance
for enforcement and also rely on state and federal enforcement where
applicable particularly the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission and
N. C. Marine Resource Commission for boater safety.
(d) Bath supports CAMA Access Rules as noted in 15A NCAC 7M Section
.0300, Shore Front Access Policies:
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing activity
• Implementation: Bath will continue applying for CAMA public access
funds as sites can be identified, become available, and secured. Bath
will continue to rely on CAMA officials to advise as to when funds are
available.
(e) Bath does not permit new commercial marinas within its jurisdictional
area.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing activity
is . Implementation: Local zoning authority assures compliance.
(f) Bath supports waterfront property subdivision in accordance with local
regulations and in accordance with state and federal regulations as
applicable.
• Schedule of Implementation: Continuing activity
• Implementation: As waterfront property is subdivided, an access site is
typically provided for those future property owners purchasing lots in
the interior of the subdivision. Bath encourages this process. Bath
relies on applicable state and federal agencies for their enforcement.
(g) Bath agrees with and supports the Canoe and Kayak Trail System
coordinated by the N. C. Division of Parks and Recreation.
• Schedule of Implementation: Assumed continuing activity
• Implementation: Bath will rely on N. C. Parks and Recreation and
other external entities.
34

(h) Bath does not permit excavation for upland marinas, further wet or dry
storage for vessels, floating homes or multi -level dry docking facilities. •
• Schedule of Implementation: Continuing activity
• Implementation: Local zoning, state action where applicable.
2. Management Topic — Water Quality
(a) Management Goal — Bath will continue to protect and improve water quality in all
areas within the Town's planning authority. Maintaining and improving water
quality is vitally linked to the Town's long history of being a waterfront
community and is essential to it's environmental and economic health and
integrity.
(b) Planning Objective — Bath will.continue working with appropriate county, state,
and federal agencies to ensure water quality is maintained and hopefully
improved. Bath recognizes the often water connected nature of surface and
ground water. However based on previous, but still applicable valid policies, for
management purposes, Bath will treat each separately. Bath also notes some
issues overlap.
1) Policies and Implementation— All policies are continuing activities, some
enforced locally, some at the county or state level, some federally.
Surface Waters
a) Bath (included in Beaufort County's Hazard Mitigation Plan) will
continue to support local, county, state and federal agencies in wise site
selection, land development practices, infrastructure provision practices;
and other activities that have positive impacts on surface waters, which
also includes wetlands and shore line protection.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing and ongoing
• Implementation: Bath uses local land use controls for local action and
relies on county, state and federal enforcement where applicable.
b) Land uses and development should not result in degradation of wetlands,.
shorelines or surface water quality.
Schedule for Implementation: Continuing activity
Implementation: Bath enforces regulations that deal with site selection,
specific permitted uses, lot size setbacks, subdivision configuration.
and some storm water runoff. Bath relies on state and federal actions
on matters such as sedimentation issues and erosion control, some
storm water management matters, coastal wetland and 404 wetland
activities, shoreline buffer controls, etc.
•
35

• c) Bath supports state and federal actions that protect wetlands and
shorelines. Only "water -dependent" uses should be allowed in coastal
wetlands and public trust waters.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing activity
• Implementation: Bath relies on state and federal actions to protect
wetlands and shorelines. Through the town's participation in the
CAMA Minor Permit program, Bath also participates directly in
wetland protection.
d) Bath encourages and supports strict enforcement of all water quality
regulations by the State Division of Environmental Management (DEM).
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing activity
Implementation: Bath must rely on DEM for enforcement.
e) Continuation or expansion of phosphate mining activities should not
degrade surface water quality.
• Schedule of Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: Bath must rely on the state for regulations at the mine
site itself. Phosphate mining is not a permitted activity within Bath's
zoning and planning authority area, thus enforced locally.
Ground Water
a) Phosphate mining activities that lower groundwater supplies should not
affect the Castle Hayne Aquifer resources in ways that limit public and
individual ability to obtain potable groundwater supplies through wells or
other means.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Bath prohibits phosphate mining in its planning area
with local zoning. Bath relies on state and federal action outside its
jurisdiction.
b) Septic tank use in future development should not negatively affect potable
groundwater.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: Bath relies on county and state regulations.
c) Development projects shall limit impervious surfaces and other activities
prohibiting natural drainage to only the area necessary to serve the use of
the lot.
• • Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
36

• Implementation: Local ordinance primarily but occasionally state and
federal intervention. •
d) No development will be allowed which would result in degradation of
groundwater levels. County, state and federal regulations must be upheld.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: Bath relies on local regulation and county, state, and
federal wisdom.
e) Use of septic tanks for existing and future development projects in
identified areas of potential septic difficulty shall be discouraged.
• Schedule of Implementation: Ongoing
• I_plementation: Bath's local zoning and primarily county septic
permits regulates this activity.
f) Development in areas identified with a relatively high water table or other
limitations upon housing foundations or road construction should be
restricted to large -lot single family units consistent with local zoning.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: Bath enforces local zoning but also relies on county
and state assistance. •
g) Small-scale development in areas identified as areas of potential septic
difficulty where hook-up to the Bath wastewater treatment system is not
available shall be large -lot single family units and consistent with county
septic requirements.
• Schedule of lmplementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local ordinance and county regulations.
h) Where hook-up to the Bath wastewater system is available, small-scale
development projects shall be required to hook-up consistent with existing
Town waste treatment capacity.
Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
Implementation: Local practice.
i) Bath encourages the voluntary filling of unused septic tanks.
• Schedule of Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Individual action and wisdom of county authority.
is
37

• 3. Management Topic — Natural and Manmade Hazards
a) Management Goal — Develop location, use, density and other criteria for both new
development and redevelopment so as to withstand or avoid hazards. Existing and
planned public services provided in ways that both direct development out of
harms way while also providing adequate evacuation if needed.
b) Planning Objective — Bath will continue to enforce local regulation and support
state and federal actions that result in mitigating development location in harms
way. Bath will also continue to enforce local regulation that affect important
natural resources which serve as buffers for hazardous ways along and adjacent to
waterways. Bath will also continue to support other agencies, which do the same.
1) Policies and Implementation — All policies are Continuing activities, some
enforced locally, some at county, state or federal level.
Natural Hazards
a) Bath supports the County Hazard Mitigation Plan of which it is a part.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing Activity
• Implementation: Rely on county direction as related to Bath.
• b) Bath supports the County's Emergency Operation Plan as the Town
participated in that documents policy development, which among other. items
identified using the Northside High School as a primary shelter and the
elementary school as a secondary shelter.
•
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Continued coordination with county personnel in times
of peril.
c) Bath supports the NC Building Code and National Flood Insurance Program.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: County code enforcement, adhere to Flood Insurance
Program requirements.
d) Bath requires development needing a sedimentation and erosion control plan
strictly adhere to NC Division of Environment and Natural Resources
standards.
Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
Implementation: Local requirements, state agency enforcement.
38

e) Bath supports all development with AEC's in strict accordance with standards •
set forth in 15A NCAC 7H, except where local regulations and policy are more
stringent.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: Local regulations, CAMA officials.
f) Bath supports the prohibition of commercial structures (hotels, motels,
restaurants, etc.) in erosion prone areas.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local and CAMA regulations
g) Bath encourages public acquisition of the most hazardous areas to 1) prevent
inappropriate development and 2) use for public access.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: Local codes, state, federal regulation and state
acquisition funds.
h) Bath supports, during reconstruction, encouraging site location for both private
and public redevelopment in ways that would minimize future damage.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing •
• Implementation: Local regulation, local setting of priorities, state and
possibly federal assistance.
i) Bath supports county, state and federal efforts to educate the public concerning
storm hazards, mitigation, and reconstruction.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Rely on county, state, and federal agencies.
Manmade Hazards
a) Bath objects to both expansion of existing MOA's and any inappropriately
sited OLF.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing and continuing
• Implementation: Rely on sound judgment from Congress, military and
special interest groups for this very important matter.
➢ Bath acknowledges this policy may not be enforceable.
Is
39

4. Management Topic — Local Areas of Concern
a) Management Goal — To enhance the natural, historic and cultural, economic and
built environment, and quality of life in ways that maintain and ensure the desired
pleasant small town atmosphere held dear by Bath.
b) Planning Objective — Implement policies that address local concerns in positive,
proactive ways.
1) Policies and Implementation — All policies are continuing activities,
enforced jointly at the local, county, state or federal level.
Natural Environment
a) Bath will enforce local land management tools in ways that ensure public
trust areas and adjacent shorelines meet or exceed standards as contained in
15A NCAC 7H and Corps of Engineers 404 Standards.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local requirements, state and federal agency
standards.
Historic and Cultural Environment
• a) Bath continues to support local historic commission standards and the
great state historic presence within Town. Bath also supports private
efforts to enhance historic activities such as the Ormond Amphitheater.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: A combination of local, state and private actions.
b) Developers and builders are cautioned that excavation can uncover
archaeological sites and that, if found, excavation must stop and the site
preserved until the Bath Historic Director can determine significance and
plan of action.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Developers and builders, Bath Historic personnel.
Economic and the Built Environment
a) Bath will continue to manage permitted land uses, site and location
requirements for residential, commercial and industrial uses to ensure
land compatibility in ways that enhance local economic health.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local land use regulations, proactive interaction
• with private sector.
40

Qualityof f Life •
a) Bath will continue to monitor matters such as noise from autos, houses,
boats, civilian and military aircraft and other sources that disrupt the
desired quiet town atmosphere and may consider either 1) developing a
local ordinance or 2) negotiating with Beaufort County for enforcement
of the county noise ordinance.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: As needed in the future.
5. Management Topic — Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
a) Management Goal — To ensure that water, sewer and roads are appropriately
located, sized and managed so as to adequately support desired development
while also protecting valuable natural resources.
b) Planning Objective — To ensure local policies are consistent with local growth and
development needs while also being sensitive to important natural areas.
1) Policies and Implementation— All are Continuing activities, with local,
county, state or federal actions.
Land Development •
a) Bath will continue to carry out its zoning ordinance; subdivision
regulations and historic district ordinance to ensure proper land uses, site
design, road and drainage design is adequate for future growth needs.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local, county, perhaps state and federal actions.
b) Bath will continue to use both the Town's and Beaufort County's water
system to serve the planning area.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local, county, perhaps state and federal actions.
c) Bath will continue to seek financial resources to improve the capacity of
its sewer collection, treatment and disposal system.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local, county, perhaps state and federal actions.
41

• d) Bath will continue to rely on Beaufort County's authority for septic tank
permits in areas not served municipally.
• ' Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local, county, perhaps state and federal actions.
e) Bath will. continue to rely on NCDOT for major road improvements to
ensure subdivisions are designed consistent with their standards.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local, county, perhaps state and federal actions.
f) Bath will continue to rely on NCDOT to advise on adequate ingress,
egress and drainage on individual lot development consistent with other
policies in this section.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local, county, perhaps state and federal actions.
g) Bath will support NCDOT road improvements that ensure future
development impacts will not burden existing transportation facilities.
• • Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: A combination of local, county, state and possibly
federal actions.
•
Natural Resources
a) Bath will continue to require proper and adequate drainage for
subdivisions and, as much as possible, insure important waterways or
other drainage receiving areas are impacted as little as possible.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: A combination of local, state, and possibility federal
actions.
b) Bath endorses the provision of services necessary to support anticipated
development within its planning jurisdiction. Bath supports the provisions
of such services through AEC's and other sensitive areas only when 1)
essential and 2) in strict conformance with applicable state and federal
rules.
Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
Implementation: A combination of local, state, and possibly federal
actions.
42

c) Bath will continue to consider cumulative impacts of each project proposal
itself, as well as the proposal's impact on pre-existing development to •
ensure no long-term negative impacts occur on water and allied resources.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: A combination of local, state, and possibly federal
actions.
d) Bath will use its future land use map when considering development
proposals.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: A combination of local, state, and possibly federal
actions.
6. Management Topic — Land Use Compatibility
a) Management Goal —Ensure that inconsistent or incompatible land uses do not
occur so that the public health, safety, welfare and well being will be upheld.
Land compatibility decisions must also be made consistent with policies
elsewhere that deal with natural resource protection.
b) Planning Objective — Bath will continue to enforce local regulations and support
state and other actions that ensure land use capability. 0
1) Policies and Implementation — All policies are Continuing activities
requiring local, county, state or federal level.
Residential, Commercial Industrial Land Uses
a) Bath's local zoning, subdivision and historic district code, the state
building code, NCDOT road standards and so on will result in land use
compatibility as best as practicable for a small town.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing and ongoing
• Implementation: A variety of local, state and federal enforcement.
Resource Protection
a) Bath's local ordinances, state and federal actions and policies elsewhere in
the Management Topic section of this document will guarantee, as much
as practicable, that land use compatibility decisions will always consider
wise use and management of the abundant and very important natural
resources Bath holds dear.
• Schedule for Implementation: Continuing
• Implementation: Local, county, state and federal regulations. •
43

• b) Bath will continue to seek financial resources to improve the capacity of
its sewer collection, treatment and disposal system.
•
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local, county, perhaps state and federal actions.
c) Bath will continue to rely on Beaufort County's authority for septic tank
permits in areas not served municipally.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local, county, perhaps state and federal actions.
d) Bath will continue to rely on NCDOT for major road improvements and
ensure subdivisions are designed consistent with their standards.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: Local, county, perhaps state and federal actions.
e) The Town of Bath acknowledges and supports existing North Carolina
laws concerning the use of unlicensed motorized vehicles on public
streets: i.e., ATV's, golf carts, mopeds, go carts, etc.
• Schedule for Implementation: Ongoing
• Implementation: NC Highway Patrol, County Sheriff Department.
...

XXV. Future Land Use Classification and Map •
According to the Manual for Developing a Workbook CAMA Land Use Plan", the
purpose of the Future Land Use Map "...is to present a graphic representation of the
community land use policies, and it shows the general land use patterns that the
community wants to see in the future."
This map should give consideration to the communities existing land uses, its
policies related to all of the six management topics, natural resources systems and so on.
In essence the map is an extension of the community vision for the future. Additionally
the map is useful to local, state, and federal agencies that may be involved in activities
that affect the community.
This guidance concerning general land use patterns would be helpful to local
governments that have few or no tools to manage development and growth in any specific i
way. This notion is a fundamental tenet of land planning, universally understood and
accepted.
Bath, however, has for many years had all the tools necessary to manage its
growth affairs. The Town enforces zoning, a historic district ordinance, subdivision
regulations, and enforces the state building code throughout its planning area. It also
provides sewer service within town limits and_ shares water provisions with the county
The Town is and has been well positioned for years to address these matters in ways
other towns and counties in coastal North Carolina are not.
Future land use categories show where community and economic development
should occur and likewise were more rural development and conservation activities are
appropriate. The Town's zoning and subdivision ordinances go into great detail in these 0
45

matters. They have measurable standards used in ways that ensure desired development
patterns. Bath's future land use map has great connection with local land management
tools.
Bath's future land use includes the following:
• Moderate density residential uses
• Low density residential uses including agricultural, forested and open space
• Office and institutional uses
• Light industrial uses
• Business uses
• Conservation areas including all AEC's 404 areas and similar landscape
features2)
is "The Manual reflects guidance for land use plans generally in accordance with
Subchapter 7B, the states administrative rules for land use plans.
2)Note that AEC's and 404 areas are intensively described by their characteristics in
either state or federal regulations. Those areas shown on the map are general locations
only, due to mapping scale limitations. Users should refer to referenced regulations for
definitive descriptions for precise locations.
Future Land Use Map Legend and corresponding zoning districts:
• Moderate density residential — R-2 residential
• Low density residential including agricultural, forested and open space - R-1
residential
• Office and institutional 0-I office and institutional
• Light industrial — I-L light industry
• Business — B-1, B-2 business
• Conservation — no corresponding zoning as AEC's, 404 areas etc. are overlays
to all future land use categories.
46

Future Land Use Classifications 0
Low Density Residential Class — R-1 Zoning District
Zoning Requirements
The purpose of this district is to encourage the development of predominantly
low -density residential neighborhoods. These districts are located primarily in areas
which are protected from more intensive uses of the land.
Dimensional requirements for their district are: minimum 20,000 square feet (sq.
ft.) lot size, 90' minimum lot width, minimum front yard 25', side yard requirements are
10', minimum rear yard 25', height limitation 35' and minimum lot coverage by principal
and all accessory structures 10%.
Moderate Density Residential Class — R-2 Zoning District
Zoning Requirements.
This district encourages the development of predominantly moderate density
residential neighborhoods. Public services to this district include public water, paved
streets, and storm drainage
Dimensional requirements for this district are: minimum lot size is 20,000 sq. ft.
except if served by a public or community water or sewage disposal system, lot size may
be reduced to 10,000 sq. ft. Duplexes, regardless, must have 30,000 sq. ft. lots. Minimum
lot width 90', front yard 15', minimum side yard 10', rear yard 20% of lot depth, except
no rear yard shall be required to exceed 20' in depth. Height limitation is 35' and lot
coverage by principal and accessory structures is 30%.
•
47

• Office and Institutional Class — 0-1 Office and Institutional Zoning District
Zoning Requirements
This district is defined as certain land areas with structures that provide office
space for professional services and for certain institutional functions and residential
accommodation, usually medium or high -density in nature. The district is normally small
and may include older homes undergoing conversion. This district is usually situation
between business and residential districts.
Dimensional requirements for this district include: 20,000 sq. ft. except 10,000 sq.
ft. if public or community water or sewage disposal is available. Minimum front yard
requirement is 15', side yard 10', maximum rear yard 20', height limitation 35' and lot
coverage by principal and accessory structures is 60%.
• Light Industrial Uses Class — I-L Light Indust Zoning District
g l� Industry g
Zoning Requirements
This district ensures that uses permitted therein are compatible to adjoining
properties by controlling noise, odor, glare, smoke, dust, liquid waste, radiation, and
other adverse environmental effects caused by the operation of such uses.
Dimensional requirements include that no minimum lot size is required; however,
lot size shall be sufficient to meet the requirements of the county health department,
unless served by public water and sewer. Minimum front yard is 25', side yard is 25'
when adjoining any residential district, 10' adjoining other districts. Rear yard is 25'
when adjoining residential districts, 10' when adjoining other districts. Parking and
signage requirements vary with uses permitted therein.
•
48

Business Class — B-1, B-2 Business Zoning Districts
Zoning Requirements
These districts provide for the continued use of land for commercial uses and
permit concentrated development while maintaining a substantial relationship between
the intensity of uses and the capacity of streets and utilities to serve such uses. A broad
range of services and commodities for the permanent community and visitors is
permitted.
No minimum lot size is required, yet lots shall be of sufficient size to meet county
health department requirements unless served by public water and sewer. A visual buffer
area is required when abutting a residential use or zone. Front yard requirements are 10'
or 15', side yard requirements are 10' with additional feet requirements adjacent to
residential uses, height requirements are 35' and up to 10' rear yard requirements are
enforced. Parking requirements vary according to various permitted uses therein. Lot
coverage by principal and accessory structures can be up to 60%.
Conservation Class — This Class is an overlay for various zoning districts and the Town's
water use zoning district.
The conservation class is designated to provide for effective long-term
management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas, which include the following
categories: natural -resource fragile areas, 404 wetlands, public trust waters, and other
AECs. Policy statements in this plan address the town's intentions under this
classification and support the 15A NCAC 7H CAMA regulations for protection of
49
•
•
•

. AEC's. Land that falls within the conservation district corresponds to the lease suitable
portions of land identified through the land suitability analysis.
Note that AEC's and 404 areas are intensively described by their characteristics in either
state or federal regulations. Those areas shown on the map are general locations only, due
to mapping scale limitations. Users should refer to referenced regulations for definitive
descriptions for precise locations.
Zoning Requirements - 1 Water District
The W-1 District is established pursuant to a grant of authority to the Town of
Bath by the General Assembly of North Carolina to provide for the safe and orderly use
of public trust waters within the zoning jurisdiction of the Town. The W-1 District is
• intended to provide for a wide range of activities and uses while protecting the public
P g P g
rights of access and the public health and safety.
The Town's ordinance lists a range of permitted and conditional uses within the
district, many of which exceed CAMA AEC permit standards. For example permanent
moorings are prohibited; length of piers is restricted as are number of slips on private
piers.
•
50

• Existing Land Use
• Land Suitability
• Future Land Use
MAPS
51
•
•

•
•
•
APPENDIX
52

Town of Bath
Citizen Participation Plan •
CAMA Workbook Land Use Plan
The Town Council has adopted by resolution this Citizen Participation Plan to provide
adequate opportunities to town residents, property owners and other interested parties to participate in the
Town's CAMA Workbook Land Use Plan.
1. The Planning Board is responsible for the CAMA Workbook Plan. The Planning Board will
supervise and guide this in accordance with state guidelines and will make recommendations to
the Town Council regarding the final Plan and adoption.
2. The Planning Board meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 pm in the Noe Building.
These meetings are advertised and open to the public. Interested parties are invited and
encouraged to attend.
3. Following each Planning Board meeting, a newsletter concerning the Plan
may be available to all interested parties.
4. News items concerning the Plan will be periodically submitted to the Washington Daily News to
advise of the status of the Plan.
5. Affected local governments in Beaufort county will be advised of the of the Town of Bath's
Workbook Plan. All are welcome to attend Planning Board meetings.
6. Other special participation opportunities will be provided if necessary. (To include, but not
limited to interest groups, civic groups, etc.)
7. When the final Workbook Plan is completed, the Town Council will hold a public hearing to •
consider adoption of the Plan. Advertising for and holding the public hearing shall be in
accordance with the Coastal Area Management Act. All interested parties shall be given the
opportunity to be heard on the Workbook Plan.
This Resolution is adopted on this day of , 2004.
(SEAL)
Mayor
•

• 3. Bath (HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN POLICIES)
a. Storm Hazard Mitigation, Reconstruction, and Evacuation
In the 1991 Plan, the Town had 32 policies related to this issue. CRC guidelines now list
12 issues for which policies should be developed. The Town has concluded its past
policies far exceed present CRC requirements and has determined these policies are still
valid. Policies existing in the 1991 Plan are preceded by numbers linking them to the
policy from the 1991 Plana
While many areas in Beaufort County and elsewhere in coastal North Carolina suffered
considerable damage from Hurricanes Bertha and Fran in 1996, Bath remained relatively
untouched. Some piers, docks, and bulkheads were damaged by high water and wave
action, but the Town's relatively high elevation prevented much damage seen in low
lying areas. Wind damage was also minimal. Despite the minimal damage suffered from
the 1996 hurricanes, the whole Town could be in harms way from future storms and
subject to storm damage.
Therefore, the Town is ever alert to the dangers of storm damage and keeps serious
vigil for storm events. Beaufort County has an Emergency Operations Plan that defines
courses of action in disaster relief, recovery, and reconstruction that affects the county.
A Control Group; made up of elected representatives (or their designee) from each
Town in the county sit as members. The Control Group provides input into county policy
in these matters and Bath has a representative on the group.
• The Town believes it is positioned to deal with storm disaster recovery, mitigation, and
evacuation as well as any community in the county. The following policies will help the
Town maintain its integrity in the event of a storm event. During review and
development of these policies the Town considered having no proactive local policies. It
also considered relying solely upon state and federal intervention. Neither alternative
was acceptable. All the following policies are from the 1991 Plan and determined to still
be valid. Following each policy statement is a brief explanation of how the policy should
be carried out.
Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies
1. The use of bulkheads along coastal waterways is to be avoided wherever
possible. Bath encourages strict enforcement by CAMA permit officers of CAMA
regulations regarding bulkheads. (relies upon state regulations)
2. The building practices required by the NC Building Code and the National Food
Insurance Program will be followed and strictly adhered to. Particular attention
will be paid to the construction standards dealing with the effects of high winds.
(relies upon local, county, state action).
3. All new public structures built by the Town will be designed to withstand the
impact of coastal storms. (relies upon local, county, and state action).
4. All AECs in the Bath Planning Area will be protected from inappropriate
development which would subject the natural resources to increased risk from
coastal storms. (relies upon local, state action)
• 5. Bath requires that the Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan filed with the EMC
be strictly adhered to. (relies upon state action).
Beaufort County Hazard Mitigation Plan-------------------------------------------A193

6. Bath supports the local CAMA permit officer in discouraging the construction of
hotels, restaurants, and similar large commercial structures in erosion -prone
•
areas. (relies on local regulation)
7. The most hazardous areas and those susceptible to severe flooding are to be
restricted to very low residential development, if they are developed at all. (relies
on local regulation)
8. Bath encourages public acquisition of the most hazardous areas whenever
feasible in order to preclude all possibility of inappropriate development by private
landholders. (relies on local initiation - state/federal grants)
9. Bath will consider methods for acquisition of hazardous areas that are also -
appropriate for public accessways to the water. (relies upon local action, state/
federal funding)
10. The Town of Bath will work with the County to ensure that current evacuation
plans and routes for the area are the most effective and up to date as possible.
(see ".control group" above)
11. The Town will maintain Bath Elementary School as an evacuation center. (relies
on local/county action)
12. New public buildings will be located and designed to provide evacuation shelter
from coastal storms if the need for additional shelter space is warranted. (relies
on local zoning and county enforcement of building code)
13. The Town will encourage developers of multi -family projects and hotels to
provide evacuation shelters for the residents, employees, and occupants of their
facilities. (relies on county enforcement of building and good faith of developers)
14. The Town of Bath will seek to increase public awareness of hurricane and coastal
storm preparation, including locations of evacuation routes and shelter sites. (will
•
distribute information as needed; also see "control group" above)
15. The Town of Bath will seek to increase awareness of and ensure compliance with
hazard mitigation building practices before development takes place. (relies upon
county enforcement of building code)
16. Bath will coordinate its educational efforts with and promote educational
programs by state, county, and federal agencies on coastal storm preparedness.
(relies on state, county, federal initiation)
17. The Town of Bath will follow the guidelines set forth in the Beaufort County
Disaster Relief and Assistance Plan. (self explanatory)
18. The Town will follow courses of action and ensure implementation of its policies
will complement the County Disaster Plan. (self-explanatory)
19. The Town will integrate recovery and reconstruction activities with the broader
set of planning goals and objectives of the community. (relies on local action,
state and federal compliance)
20. Reconstruction following a disaster or storm related destruction shall take place in
accordance with policies existing at the time of the storm. Development following
a storm should have the same characteristics of development allowed at the time
of the storm. (self-explanatory)
21. While regulation of septic tanks and package treatment plants are within the
jurisdiction of the County Health Department and/or the State, the Town will
urge that these facilities be designed and located so that they will be less likely
to be damaged, or cause damage or serious inconvenience by flooding. (relies on
county/state use of this policy)
•
Beaufort County Hazard Mitigation Plan-------------------------------------------A193

22. The Town, in accordance with local zoning and building codes, may allow
•
reconstruction of structures which have been substantially damaged and are
located in high hazard areas. (relies local/county codes)
23.
During reconstruction, the Town will seek to relocate high density structures
away from high storm hazard areas. (relies on local/county codes and judgment)
24.
During reconstruction decision -making, the Town will seek to
encourage redevelopment patterns which recognize and utilize natural
mitigation features of the coastal environment. Redevelopment
should take into consideration any changes in natural conditions
brought about by the storm. (relies on local/county codes and
judgment)
25.
Bath will have a "Recovery Task Force" with designated members and
allocated responsibilities in place to deal with reconstruction activities
following a coastal storm or other disaster. Members include the
Town Administrator, Assistant Administrator, Utility Director;
Wastewater System Operator, Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief, and
various volunteers. (self-explanatory)
26.
The Recovery Task Force will work with and coordinate its efforts with
all necessary county, state, and federal agencies. (self-explanatory)
27.
During reconstruction, the Town will make every effort to develop its
capacity to identify and orchestrate various post -storm reconstruction
resources, while at the same time ensuring maximum local control
over the reconstruction process. (self-explanatory)
28.
•
The Town will consider a moratorium on requests for amendments to
the Zoning Ordinance for an appropriate period of time following a
disaster. (local action)
29.
The Town will explore the possibility of adopting a construction
moratorium which would be triggered by a disaster or major
destruction. The temporary moratorium on all new development
would remain in effect until all reconstruction in the Planning Area is
complete. (relies on local judgment and action)
30.
The Town will prioritize all clean-up efforts according to the following
schedule:
1) Service facilities (electricity, water, sewer, etc) should be repaired first.
2) Public facilities which could be used for additional shelter should be repaired
next.
3) Roads and streets should be repaired next.
4) A "worst damage" approach should follow afterwards.
31. During reconstruction, the Town will limit the construction of public
facilities and structures and the reconstruction of damaged facilities
and structures in high hazard areas (relies on local regulations/county
enforcement of building code).
32. Public facilities such as water, sewer, and roads will be extended or
rebuilt in damaged high hazard area only when absolutely necessary,
and only to such size and degree necessary to serve the level of
density existing before the storm (relies on local regulations and
judgment, and cooperation with other agencies).
Beaufort County Hazard Mitigation Plan-------------------------------------------A193

Town of Bath
Land Suitability Analysis
Map
No Suitability
Low Suitability
®
Low to Medium Suitability
-
Medium to High Suitability
-
High Suitability
No Data
Town Boundary
ET) Boundary
N
0 0.5 Miles
Prepared by NC Division of
Coastal Management
April 2005

Town of Bath
Existing Land Use
Please note: This map was created by tracing parcel
data from the Beaufort County Land Records Department.
This is not a survey and does not meet map accuracy
standards. It is however, a good representation of the
actual parcel coverage to be used for planning purposes
only.
Graphic Scale
0 950 1,900 3.800 5.700 7.600
Feet
1 inch equals 2,203,236697 feet
1 vonn carane
/� Jpenmenl of
of
-iunll Ccommer« n onmHY
4Ybt�ne�
Map Prepared 7-29-2005

Graphic Scale
CAMA FUTURE LAND USE MAP
OF THE
TOWN OF BATH, NC
Note that AEC's and 404 areas are intensively described by
their characteristics in either state or federal regulations. Those
areas shown on the map are general locations only due to
mapping scale limitations. Users should refer to referenced
regulations for definitive descriptions for precise locations.
_ Conservation Area
*Nonh Carolina
^ .--nrnenl or
Commerce
Division of
Gommunity
Assistance
Map Prepared July 26, 2006