Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutLand Use Plan-1996 TOWN OF BEAUFORT, NORTH CAROLINA 1996 LAND USE PLAN Adopted by the Beaufort Board of Commissioners: August 11, 1997 Certified by the Coastal Resources Commission: September 26, 1997 Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. Wilmington, North Carolina The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. TOWN OF BEAUFORT FY95/96 LAND USE PLAN UPDATE TABLE OF CONTENTS Page - SECTION I: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS A. ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE .......................... 1-1 B. POPULATION AND HOUSING. .. 1-4 1. • ... • .......... • ...... • .......... Population ......1-4 a. Permanent Population Growth, 1970-1994 ......... ..... 1-4 b. Composition and Age ................................ 1-6 2. Town of Beaufort Seasonal Population ......................... • . • ... 1-7 a. Introduction and Methodology ......................... 1-7 b. Seasonal Population I-9 3. Housing Characteristics ..:: : ::::::::::.:::.::::::::::::. . 1-9 a. Tenure and Vacancy ................................ 1-9 4. Summary .................. .................. ..I-11 C. ECONOMY..............................................I-11 D. EXISTING LAND USE.........................................1-15 1. Urban and Developed Land ................................ 1-15 a. Residential......................................1-15 b. Commercial......................................1-22 C. Industrial ....................................... 1-23 d. Institutional ...................................... 1-23 e. Transportation and Public Utilities ...................... 1-24 f. Airport .............. .........................I-24 g. Agricultural, Forested, and Vacant Land ................. 1-24 h. Annexations ..................................... 1-25 i. Basinwide Water Quality Management ................... 1-25 2. Summary: Town of Beaufort Existing Land Use Problems .......... 1-29 3. Existing Ordinance and Land Use Controls 1-30 a. Zoning Ordinance .:::::::........ . ...... 1-30 b. Subdivision Regulations ............................. 1-30 C. Flood Plain Development Ordinance 1-30 ' ..................... d. Floating Home Ordinance . 1-31 e. Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan . 1-31 f. Thoroughfare Plan, .. .. .. . I-31 g. Building Code ........• .• .... •• ... • . • • .... 1-31 h. Minimum Housing Code ... ............. ... .... 1-31 4. Development Potential ................................... 1-31 1 E. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY .'................. 1-32 1. Topography/Geology.................................... 1-32 2. Flood Hazard Areas ..................................... 1-33 3. Soils .................................... ..........1-37 4. Manmade Hazards/Restrictions ................ .......... 1-41 5. Fragile Areas.......................................... 1-42 a. Coastal Wetlands ................................. 1-42 b. Estuarine Waters .............. ......... .... 1-42 C. Estuarine Shorelines. ..... ....... ............. 1-42 d. Public Trust Areas...................�.............. 1-42 e. Historic and Archaeological Sites .... ............... 1-44 f. Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary ..................... 1-45 g. Freshwater Wetlands ............................... 1-45 h. Closed Shellfishing Areas ............................ 1-45 6. Areas of Resource Potential ............................... 1-46 . a. Agricultural and Forest Lands ......................... 1-46 b. Public Parks ..................................... 1-46 C. Marine Resources ................................. 1-46 F. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: PUBLIC FACILITIES ....... :.......... 1-47 1. Water Supply ....................................... 1-47 2. Sewer .................................. .. ...I-48 3. Solid Waste Disposal .................................... 1-51 4. Schools ........................... .... ......... .1-52 5. Transportation ......................................... 1-53 6. Police ................................................ 1-54 7. Fire................................................I-54 8. Emergency Services .... ........ ................... .. 1-54 9. Recreation ...................... ... ..............1-56 10. Administration ..... ................... 1-57 ............. 1-1 I A 1 SECTION 11: PROJECTED LAND DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS A. PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT ......................... II-1 1. Demographic Trends ................................ ... II-1 2. Commercial and Industrial Land Use ..... ............ ..... II-3 3. Housing Trends ........................................ II-4 4. Public Land Use ........................... ........... II-4 5. Project Public Facilities Needs/Availability ...................... II-4 6. Airport Development .................................... II-5 7. Areas Likely to Experience Major Land Use Changes .............. II-7 B. REDEVELOPMENT ISSUES ...................................... 11-7 C. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION ......... II-7 SECTION III: LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM ........................... III-1 2 1 SECTION IV: INTRODUCTION TO POLICY STATEMENTS . A. VISION STATEMENT ......................................... B. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS IV-3 . IV-3 C. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES .............. IV-10 D. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ..................... E. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES .................... IV-12 IV-17 F. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVER, AND EVACUATION PLANS .................................... IV-18 SECTION V: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS A. DEVELOPED CLASS .......................................... V-1 B. URBAN TRANSITION CLASS ............ ....... ............. V-1 C. LIMITED TRANSITION ........................................ V-1 D. RURAL WITH SERVICES CLASS V-1 E. CONSERVATION CLASS ...................................... V-2 F. SUMMARY ................................................ V-2 TABLES Page Table 1 Town of Beaufort and Carteret County, NC Summary of Year -Round Population Growth by Township and Municipality, 1970 - 1994 ............................ 1-5 Table 2 Town of Beaufort, NC Population Characteristics by Age Group, 1970-1990 ........ Table 3 Town of Beaufort, NC 1-6 Percentage Change in Population by Race & Sex, 1970-1990 .. 1-6 STable 4 Town of Beaufort, NC Seasonal, Permanent, and Total Peak Population, 1995 ...... 1-8 Table 5 Town of Beaufort, NC Housing Summary: Tenure and Vacancy ................. 1-9 Table 6 Town of Beaufort, NC Housing Conditions, 1980-1990 ....................... 1-10 Table 7 Town of Beaufort, NC Per Capita Income, 1979-1990 ... ............. ..... Table 8 Town of Beaufort, NC 1-11 Employed Persons 16 Years and Older by Industry, 1990 ..... 1-12 3 Page Table 9 Town of Beaufort, NC Poverty Status, 1980 & 1990 ......................... 1-13 Table 10 Town of Beaufort, NC .Industrial Employers, 1995 ......... ............. .. 1-14 Table 11 Town ofBeaufort, NC Existing Land Use Within Town Limits ................... 1-17 Table 12 Town of Beaufort, NC Existing Land Use in Extraterritorial Area ................. 1-18 Table 13 Town of Beaufort, NC Existing Land Use - Total Beaufort Planning Area ............ 1-19 Table 14 Town of Beaufort, NC Building Permits, 1991 to 1995 ....................... 1-20 Table 15 Town of Beaufort, NC Marinas .... ........................... ...... 1-22 Table 16 Carteret County Watershed Report Watershed 03020106040010 and 03020106030070 Baseand Demographic Data .......................... 1-28 Table 17 Town of Beaufort, NC Soil Conditions for Building Site Development ............. 1-39 Table 18 Town of Beaufort, NC Minimum Recreational Facility Needs .................... 1-56 Table 19 Town of Beaufort and Carteret County, NC Summary of Year -Round Population Growth by Township and Municipality, 1990-2005 ............................ II-2 Table 20 Carteret County, NC Average Annual Year -Round Population Growth Rate and Percent Change, 1993-2003 .......................... II-3 MAPS Map 1 1995 Land Use Patterns ............................. 1-16 Map 2 FY96 CDBG Project Area ............................ 1-21 Map 3 Watershed Boundary ............................... 1-27 Map 4 100-Year Floodplain Area ............................ 1-35 Map 5 Areas Affected by Hurricane -Generated Storm Surge ........ 1-36 Map 6 Soils Map ....................................... 1-38 Map 7 Areas of Environmental Concern ....................... 1-43 Map 8 Community Facilities ............................... 1-50 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 t 1 Page Map 9 Bridge Relocation Route .............................. 1-55 Map 10 Land Classification Map ............................. III-3 GRAPHS Graph 1 Town of Beaufort Water Use Supply and Demand Graph ...... II-6 APPENDICES Appendix I Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan Policies Considered But Not Adopted Appendix II Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan Citizen Participation Plan 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 ri r� SECTION I: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS A. ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE This 1995 Land Use Plan Update for the Town of Beaufort is prepared in accordance with requirements of the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). Specifically, this document complies with Subchapter 713, "Land Use Planning Guidelines," of the North Carolina Administrative Code, as amended, September 28, 1995. The 7B guidelines define the following intent of land use plans: "Local governments, through the land use planning process, address issues and adopt policies that guide the development of their community. Many decisions affecting development are made by other levels of government, and local policies must take account of and coincide with established state and federal policies. Most decisions, however, are primarily of local concern. By carefully and explicitly addressing these issues, other levels of government will follow local policies that deal with these issues. State and federal agencies will use the local land use plans and policies in making project consistency, funding, and permit decisions. Policies which consider the type of development to be encouraged, the density and patterns of development, and the. methods of providing beach access are examples of these local policy decisions. The land use plan shall contain the following basic elements: 11 a summary of data collection and analysis; 2) an existing land use map; 3) a policy discussion; 4) a land classification map." In addition to these basic elements, the 7B guidelines require that the following issues be addressed in the plan: 1) Resource Protection 2) Resource Production and Management 3) Economic and Community Development 4) Continuing Public Participation 5) Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery and Evacuation Plans This land use plan provides a guide for development of the Town of Beaufort by addressing issues and adopting policies that are relevant to the town. Specifically, this land use plan provides the following: 1) an analysis of existing conditions, including a land use map; 2) a projected land development analysis; 3) a summary of public interests and participation; 4) a land classification system; 5) a detailed section on policy statements; 11 6) an analysis of the carrying capacity of public facilities with a demand/supply analysis; 7) a summary of 404 wetland areas and issues; 8) an analysis of maritime forest issues; and 9) an explanation of the relationship of the policies to the land classification. It should be noted that the policy section of the plan is the most important part of the document. State and federal agencies will use the local land use policies in making project consistency, funding, and permit decisions. PREVIOUS POLICY STATEMENTS - The 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan included policy statements which addressed the five policy areas. Those policies supported, or in some cases exceeded, the 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards. The following identifies by policy area those policies which exceeded the 15A NCAC 7H use standards: Miscellaneous Resource Protection Marina and Floating Home Development: (c) Beaufort opposes the location of floating structures in all marinas, public trust areas, and estuarine waters. Floating structures are defined as any structure or vessel used, designed, and occupied as a permanent dwelling unit, business, office, or source of any occupation or any private or social club, which floating structure or vessel is primarily immobile and out of navigation or which functions substantially as a land structure while moored or docked on waters within county jurisdiction. Floating structures shall not be used commercially or inhabited in one place for more than 15 days. The Town of Beaufort will review and revise its local floating home ordinance to be consistent with this policy. Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands: (a) Beaufort opposes any development on sound and estuarine islands located within its planning jurisdiction. Off -Road Vehicles: Beaufort opposes the utilization of off -road vehicles in any areas classified as coastal wetlands and in the entire Rachel Carson Sanctuary. In addition to these specific statements, the 1990 policy statements generally expressed the following: -- Support for increased central sewer service. - - Support for participation in the FEMA flood insurance program. -- Support for conservation of groundwater resources. -- Support for expansion of Radio Island. -- With the exception of fuel storage tanks used for retail and wholesale sales, Beaufort opposes the bulk storage of manmade hazardous materials within any areas not zoned for industrial usage. -- Support for expansion of Michael J. Smith Airport. -- Support for state stormwater management regulations. 1-2 1 -- Support for marina construction which is consistent with 15A NCAC 7H. -- Support for bulkhead construction which is consistent with 15A NCAC 7H. -- Support for the U.S. Conservation Service "Best Management Practices" program. -- Support for residential, commercial, and industrial development which is -- consistent with 15A NCAC 7H. Does not oppose offshore exploratory drilling for oil or gas. -- Support for the state's shoreline area policies as set forth in NCAC Chapter 15, Subchapter 7M. ' -- Support for environmentally safe industrial development. -- Support for channel maintenance. - -- Support for a strong tourist industry. ' -- Support implementation of the recommendations included in the 1990 Carteret County Thoroughfare Plan. Listed below are some of the sources and documents utilized during preparation of this Land Use Plan: Carteret County 1991 Land Use Plan Update Town of Beaufort 1990 Land Use Plan Update -- Town of Beaufort 1985 Land Use Plan Update -- USDA, Soil Conservation Service, Carteret County NCDOT, Planning and Policies Section -- NCDOT, Transportation 2001, Transportation Improvement Program Morehead City- Beaufort 1992 Thoroughfare Plan Town of Beaufort Staff -- Carteret County School Board ' -- North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management North Carolina Division of Archives and History Flood Insurance Study, Town of Beaufort -- Town of Beaufort Zoning Ordinance -- Town of Beaufort Subdivision Ordinance -- North Carolina Division of Community Assistance -- North Carolina Division of Coastal Management -- North Carolina Department of Economic and Community Development -- Town of Beaufort Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan and Post Disaster Reconstruction Plan, 1984 -- U.S. Census, 1990 These sources were supplemented by "windshield" surveys conducted to obtain data on existing land use patterns. 1 1-3 B. POPULATION AND HOUSING 1. Population a. Permanent Population Growth, 1970-1994 Carteret County is one of the state's fastest growing counties. Based on detailed demographic estimates provided by the State Data Center for counties and municipalities through 1994, Carteret County was the sixth fastest growing CAMA-regulated county and was 24th in the entire state. Table 1 provides a complete summary of year-round population growth within Carteret County. Carteret County's rate of growth from 1970 to 1980 was twice the growth rate of the 1960s. Since 1980, population growth, although extremely high, has occurred at a continually decreasing rate. The N.C. State Data Center has forecast this trend to continue through the year 2003. A large percentage of the growth in Carteret County from 1970-1994 has occurred in the incorporated beach communities and in areas near the extraterritorial jurisdiction of existing municipalities. The Town of Beaufort, not including unincorporated areas, had an increase in population from 1970 to 1994 of 629 permanent residents for a 18.7% increase. Unincorporated areas grew at a rate of 67.1 % for the same period. The town's current estimate of the permanent population residing within the incorporated area of Beaufort is 4,013 persons. Since 1994, a large percentage of the town's population growth has resulted from annexation having taken place in July, 1995. The population growth of Carteret County and the Town of Beaufort is the result of many factors including: a national trend of migration to non -metropolitan areas; expansion of military facilities and activities; industrial development; tourism; and the emergence of the area as a retirement center. 1-4 Table 1 Town of Beaufort and Carteret County, NC Summary of Year -Round Population Growth by Township and Municipality, 1970 - 1994 Township Municipality or Area Year Round Population 1970 1980 1990 1994 Percentage Change Overall '70280 '80-'90 '90294 '70294 1) Atlantic Total Township 814 810 805 803 -0.49% -0.62% -0.26% -1.37% 2) Beaufort Beaufort 3,368 3,826 3,808 3,997 13.60% -0.47% 4.96% 18.68% Unincorporated Areas 2,779 3,166 4,205 4,644 13.93% 32.82% 10.45% 67.12% Total Township 6,147 6,992 8,013 8,641 13.75% 14.60% 7.84% 40.58% 3) Cedar Island Total Township 290 333 385 407 14.83% 15.62% 5.71 % 40.34% 4) Davis Total Township 456 492 535 553 7.89% 8.74% 3.40% 21.31 % 5) Harkers Island Total Township 1,639 11910 2,237 2,375 16.53% 17.12% 6.18% 44.92% 6) Harlowe Total Township 762 956 11190 1,289 25.46% 24.48% 8.31 % 69.15% 7) Marshallberg Total Township 525 580 646 674 10.48% . 11.38% 4.32% 28.36% 8) Merrimon Total Township 330 426 542 591 29.09% 27.23% 9.05% 79.10% 9) Morehead City Atlantic Beach 300 941 1,938 2,267 213.67% 105.95%. 16.98% 655.67% Indian Beach 0 54 153 177 N/A 183.33% 15.69% N/A Morehead City 5,233 4,359 6,046 6,384 -16.70% 38.70% 5.59% 22.00% Pine Knoll Shores 0 646 1,360 1,543 N/A 110.53% 13.46% N/A Unincorporated Areas 6,396 9,803 10,985 11,485 53.27% 12.06% 4.55% 79.56% Total Township 11,929 15,803 20,482 21,856 32.48% 29.61 % 6.71 % 83.21 % 10) Newport Newport 1,735 1,883 2,516 2,778 8.53% 33.62% 10.41 % 60.12% Unincorporated Areas 2,191 3,586 4,817 5,337 63.67% 34.33% 10.80% 143.61 % Total Township 3,926 5,469 7,333 8,115 39.30% 34.08% 10.67% 106.71 % 11) Sea Level Total Township 347 540 773 872 55.62% 43.15% 12.74% 151.15% 12) Smyrna Total Township 517 637 782 843 23.21 % 22.76% 7.84% 63.11 % 13) Stacy Total Township 257 322 401 434 25.29% 24.53% 8.33% 69.03% 14) Straits Total Township 1,166 1,520 1,948 2,129 30.36% 28.16% 9.29% 82.58% 15) White Oak Cape Carteret 616 944 1,008 1,179 53.25% 6.78% 16.96% 91.40% Emerald Isle 122 865 2,434 2,798 609.02% 181.39% 14.95% 2193.44% Cedar Point 0 0 628 688 N/A N/A 9.55% N/A Unincorporated Areas 1,758 2,493 2,413 2,379 41.81 % -3.21 % -1.40% 35.33% Total Township 2,496 4,302 6,483 7,044 72.36% 50.70% 8.66% 182.22% Total Municipalities Total Unincorporated Areas Total County 11,374 13,518 19,891 21,811 18.85% 47.14% 9.70% 91.76% 20,229 27,574 32,662 34,813 36.31 % 18.45% 6.59% 72.09% 31,603 41,092 52,553 56,624 30.03% 27.90% 7.75% 79.19% Sources: N.C. State Data Center; extrapolation of data for unincorporated areas by Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. 1-5 b. Composition and Age Tables 2 and 3 were completed using the data provided in the 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan combined with the 1990 U.S. Census. Table 2 Town of Beaufort, NC Population Characteristics by Age Group, 1970-1990 'Town of Beaufort Carteret County Age 1970 1980 1990 1970 1980 1990 0-4 5.8% 5.2% 6.7% 8.3% 6.8% 6.4% 5-19 27.2% 21.2% . 17.0% 28.7% 23.1 % 18.7% 20-29 10.8% 15.8% 14.2% 15.3% 18.1 % 15.3% 30-39 10.6% 11.7% 13.9% 11.4% 13.8% 15.8% 40-49 12.5% 10.1 % 12.0% 12.5% 10.5% 13.5% 50-59 13.4% 12.6% 10.3% 10.3% 11.3% 10.5% 60-69 12.4.0/o' :.. 1.3�4%...__ 13.5% 8.0% 9.4% 11.0% 70 & up 7.3% 10.0% 12.4% 5.5% 7.0% 8.8% Total 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census. Table 3 Town of Beaufort, NC Percentage Change in Population by Race and Sex, 1970-1990 Town of Beaufort Carteret County 1970 1980 1990 1970 1980 1990 Male Population 47% 48% 45% 49% 50% 49% Female Population 53% 52% 55% 51 % 50% 51 % Total Population 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% White Population 69% 76% 74% 89% 90% 91 % Non -White Population 31 % 24% 26% 11 % 10% 9% Total Population 100% 100% . 100% 100% 100% 100% Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census. Table 2 indicates that the age groups 60-69 and 70 & Up have occupied an increasingly larger percentage of the total population since 1970. In 1970, 19.7% of the Beaufort population was 60 years old or older. By 1990, the percentage of persons 60 years W t 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 H old and up had increased to 25.9%. The town's 1990 percentage of elderly (60 & Up) is considerably higher than the county (19.8%) and state (20.0%) percentages. The town's preschool population experienced a decrease in population percentage of .6% between .1970-1980, and then increased 1.5% between 1980-1990 to make up a total of 6.7% of the population. The school age segment of the population decreased throughout ' the twenty-year period and in 1990 made-up a total of 17% of the Beaufort population. The only other non -elderly age groups which experienced an increase in percentage of population from 1970-1990 were the 20-29 and 30-39 age groups which increased 3.4% and 3.3%, respectively. Overall, the trends in age group composition for the Town of Beaufort have closely resembled that of the county as a whole. ' These increases in the elderly segment -of Beaufort's population are the result of a national trend toward a higher median age and an increasing investment in waterfront property by retirees. Carteret County as a whole has also experienced a positive net migration rate for the 30-39 and over 60 age groups during the period 1970-1990. A positive net migration rate means that the influx of people into the county for their age groups was greater than the number of people moving outside of the county. The growth rate of the 30-39 and over 60 age groups can also be attributed to non -migratory, demographic factors including birth rates, death rates, and aging patterns. Table 3 indicates that from 1970-1990 the percentage of the non -white population has decreased by 5 %. The relative decrease in non -white population since 1970 indicates that the migratory pattern in Beaufort has been dominated by an incoming white population. The Office of State Planning has forecast that between 1990-2000, Carteret County can expect an out -migration of 0-4% for the non -white population and an in -migration of 4-8% for the white population. It can be assumed that the Town of Beaufort should follow a similar trend as the county as a whole. Another point which can be noted through the study of Table 3 is the change in the male/female ratio of Beaufort from 1970-1990. In 1970 the male/female ratio was 47:53 and tin 1990 it was 45:55. The ratio for Carteret County remained closer to the 50:50 mark. This difference in male/female ratios between Beaufort and Carteret County may be due to the fact that Beaufort has a higher percentage of the population in the 60 & Up age group and the life expectancy of females is greater than that of males. ' 2. Town of Beaufort Seasonal Population' a. Introduction and Methodology ' Beaufort's permanent and year-round population is supplemented by a significant peak seasonal population. The methodology used in this study will closely follow a demographic analysis of recreational population for the Albemarle -Pamlico region prepared by Paul. D. Tschetter of East Carolina University in 1988. The advantage of the ECU analysis is that it relies on an extensive empirical enumeration of marine boat slips, motel rooms, and "This section does not address or include figures for "day -visitor" usage of Carteret County recreational facilities, ' beaches, waters, and natural areas. Thus, the actual daytime seasonal population figures are significantly higher than those stated in this section. Accurate "day visitor" data is not available. I-7 campgrounds in addition to private seasonal housing units. The study also includes an excellent approach to estimating average population by type of individual housing unit. For purposes of the ECU study (and this demographic analysis), "total seasonal housing units" includes 1) all single- and multi -family private housing units used by the overnight tourist population rather than the permanent population; 2) all motel/hotel rooms (including bed and breakfasts); 3) all seasonal and transient campground sites; and 4) all individual marina wet slips capable of docking boats of a size and type which can house people overnight. Marina facilities for fueling/repair only (no overnight dockage), and those that only dock commercial fishing boats, are excluded from the enumeration of seasonal housing units. As in the ECU study, an enumeration of seasonal housing units was conducted to arrive at the totals presented in Table 4. The figures for marina boat slips, motel rooms, and campgrounds are up to date as of September, 1995. Due to the lack of current data for private housing units and permanent population for 1995, the figures from the 1990 U.S. Census have been substituted. Therefore, the figures provided in this plan for seasonal population and peak seasonal population may be slightly low for 1995 since.any growth in private housing units and permanent population from 1990-1995 has not been considered. Table 4 Town of Beaufort, NC Seasonal, Permanent, and Total Peak Population, 1995 1995* Number Persons Seasonal Housing Type of Units Per Unit Population Motel/Hotel 114' `4 456 Campsites 0 0 0 Boat Slips 183 3.25[1] 506 Private Housing Units [2) 236 5 1,062 Total 533 2,024 Permanent Population 3,808 Peak Seasonal Population 2,024 Total Peak Population 5,832 [1] Based on 85% occupancy rate. 100% used for all other categories. [2] Includes units "vacant -held for occasional use" and "other vacant" as classified by the 1990 U.S. Census. * The figures for Motel/Hotel, Campsites, and Boat Slips are current as of September, 1995. The most recent data available for Private Housing Units and Permanent Population is-1990. Source: 1990 U.S. Census; Holland Consulting Planners, Inc., l_8 1 b. Seasonal Population Table 4 illustrates that the Town of Beaufort has a total of 533 seasonal units, a peak seasonal population of 2,024, and a total peak 1995 population of 6,037. "Peak seasonal population" can be defined as the population that would be enumerated in all seasonal housing units if all of those units were occupied at full capacity, based on average assumed household ' sizes for each type of unit (one exception is, in marina boat slips where the ECU study suggests an occupancy rate of 85%). Although "peak seasonal population is based on a number of variables, it is a very useful statistic for planning purposes, since it provides a logically derived summary of the possible total occupancy in seasonal units during peak overnight tourism periods (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day weekends). "Total peak population" is simply the sum of the permanent population and peak seasonal population. 3. Housing Characteristics a. Tenure and Vacancy The majority of Beaufort's housing stock is composed of year-round dwelling units. Table 5 provides a summary of the tenure and vacancy status of the town's housing supply from 1970-1990. Table 5 Town of Beaufort, NC Housing Summary: Tenure and Vacancy - ---- --- --- --- - 1970 1980 -1990 - ' Total Housing Units 1,269 1,734 2,085 Year -Round Housing Units 1,203 1,637 1,849 Occupied 1,132 1,557 1,721 Renter -occupied 236 557 762 Owner -occupied 869 1,000 959 Vacant 137 177 364 ' For Sale 17 9 34 94 For Rent 54 71 Seasonal Units [1 ] 66 97 236 [1] Includes units "vacant -held for occasional use" and "other vacant" as classified by the 1970-1990 U.S. Census. Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census. From 1970-1990, the town's total housing supply increased from 1,269 units to 2,085 units. This amounts to a net gain of 816 units and a 64.3% increase over the twenty-year 1-9 period. The number of owner -occupied housing units decreased and the number of renter - occupied units increased from 1970-1990. In 1970, 76.8% of the occupied housing units were owner -occupied. This figure dropped to only 55.7% in 1990. The number of seasonal units in 1990 is 3.6 times higher than it was in 1970. The majority of this growth occurred from -1980-1990, with the addition of 139 seasonal housing -units: This table, in general, illustrates a trend away from the traditional owner -occupied housing towards a rented and seasonal stock of housing in Beaufort. Table 6 shows a total of 2,085 housing units in Beaufort in 1990. Only 3.2% of Beaufort's housing stock was less than one year old and 59.5% was greater than twenty years old. The maturity and condition of housing reflects Beaufort's strong historical preservation efforts, which have maintained housing and increased the average age of housing within the town. It may also be noted that single family, detached housing dominates the market at 57.70%. Table 6 Town of Beaufort, NC Housing Conditions, 1980-1990 Condition and Age 1990 Percent of Total Total Year -Round Units 2,085 100.00% Aga 0-1 67 3.21 % 2-5 207 9.93% 6-10 190 9.11 % 11-20 380 18.23 % 21-30 165 7.91 % , 31-40 275 13.19% 41-50 230 11.03% 51 & Up 571 27.39% Condition Lacking complete bathroom facilities 0 0.00% Lacking complete kitchen facilities Type 4 0.20% Total Year -Round Units 2,085 100.00% Single family, detached 1,203 57.70% ' Single family, attached 47 2.25% Duplex 98 4.70% 3- and 4-unit 328 15.73% 5-unit or more 245 11.75 % Mobile home 142 6.81 % Other 22 1.06 % Source: 1990 U.S. Census; Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. 1-10 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 4. Summary The following provides a summary of significant demographic and housing findings: Between 1980-1990, Carteret County experienced a 27.94% population growth; 47.29 % in incorporated areas and 18.45 % in the unincorporated areas. Beaufort experienced a slight drop in permanent population from 3,826 in 1980 to 3,808 in 1990. During the same time period, the total number of seasonal housing units increased from 97 to 236. . -- In 1995, the town can expect a peak seasonal population of 2,024. This figure does not include "day visitors". -- The average age of the town's population has continued to mature and in 1990 36.2% of the population was over fifty years of age. -- The school -aged population has continued to decrease from a high in 1970 of 27.2% to a low in 1990 of only 17.0% of the total population. - Since 1970, Beaufort's percentage of non -white population has decreased from .31 % to 26% and the female population has increased to make up a total of 55 % of the population. -- Beaufort's housing stock is primarily composed of year-round dwelling units, but there has been a shift from a vast majority of the units being owner -occupied to 44% being renter -occupied. From 1970 to 1990, the town's total housing supply increased by 64.3% In 1990, 77.75% of the housing stock was over twenty years old. C. ECONOMY As shown in Table 7, prior. to 1990, the Town of Beaufort maintained a per capita income above that of the state and Carteret County. Table 7 Town of Beaufort, NC Per Capita Income, 1979-1990 1979 1985 1990 Town of Beaufort $6,274 $9,788 Carteret County $6,146 $9,296 North Carolina $6,132 $9,517 Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census. $11,385 $13,227 $12,885 In 1990, Beaufort's per capita income was surpassed by the state by $1,500 dollars and the county by $1,842 dollars. This may be due in part to the substantial decrease in the educational service sector shown in Table 8 and a decline in the commercial fishing industry. Table 8 Town of Beaufort, NC Employed Persons 16 Years and Older by Industry, 1990 1980 1990 Change in Number Percent Number Percent Percent of Occupation Employed of Total Employed of Total Total 80-90 Agriculture, forestry, fisheries, mining* 153 9.86% 51 3.00% -6.86% Construction 27 1.74% 87 5.12% 3.38% Manufacturing Nondurable goods 67 4.32% 99 5.83% 1.51 % Durable goods 104 6.70% 134 7.89% 1.19% Transportation 68 4.38% 99 5.83% 1.45% Communication, other public utilities 18 1.16% 18 1.06% -0.10% Wholesale trade 83 5.35% 74 4.36% -0.99% .Retail trade 279 17.98% 412 24.25% 6.27% Finance, insurance, and real estate 63 4.06% 68 4.00% -0.06% Business and repair services 44 2.84% 39 2.30% -0.55% Personal, entertainment, and recreational services 68 4.38% 77 4.53% 0.15% Professional and related services Health services 36 2.32% 139 8.18% 5.86% Educational services 301 19.39% 120 7.06% -12.33% Other professional & related services 56 3.61 % 65 3.83% 0.22% Public Administration 185 11.92% 217 12.77% 0.85% Total Employed 1,552 100.00% 1,699 100.00% "While these are grouped together, this category is primarily limited to fisheries employment within Beaufort. Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census; Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. In 1980, the commercial fishing industry ranked fourth in total employment behind educational services, retail trade, and public administration. In 1990, the commercial fishing industry dropped to a rank of 13th ahead of only business and repair services and communications, other public utilities. The educational services sector was ranked 1 st in total employment in 1980 and dropped to fifth in 1990. According to the Carteret County School Board this decrease in the Town of Beaufort's educational services sector was not the result of a loss of jobs. In fact, Census data for Carteret County as a whole indicates an increase of 34% for the educational services sector of employment between 1980-1990. The only explanation for the decrease experienced in the Town of Beaufort is that a large number of those employed in the educational services sector chose to move outside the town limits of Beaufort between 1980 and 1990. 1 1-12 ' The 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan mentioned that the commercial fishing industry had a significant "multiplier effect" in the local economy. This means that other sectors of employment such as retail trade, wholesale trade, and manufacturing benefitted from a healthy. commercial fishing industry. Since Beaufort once relied heavily on this industry, it is possible that its demise has had a negative impact throughout the entire economy and may have contributed to the decrease in per capita income relative to the state and county. ' Several occupations experienced increases in percentage of total employment from 1980- P P 9 1990. The construction sector increased 3.4%, retail trade 6.3%, health services 5.9%, manufacturing nondurable goods 1.5%, and transportation 1.5%. In 1990, the top five occupations in terms of percent of the workforce were retailed trade, public administration, health services, manufacturing durable goods, and educational services. ' A combination of the above shifts in the various occupational sectors may help to explain the lower than average per capita income Beaufort experienced in 1990. Table 9 illustrates that between 1980 and 1990, the number of middle class individuals decreased while the number of people with an income below 75% of poverty level and an income 200% of poverty level and above increased. Table 9 - Town of Beaufort, NC Poverty Status, 1980 & 1990 1980 1990 ' Percent Percent Income Level Individuals of Total Individuals of Total Income below 75% of poverty level 369 9.75% 430 11.33% Income between 75 & 124% of poverty level 482 12.74% 444 11.70% Income between 125 & 149% of poverty level 226 5.97% 202 5.32% Income between 150 & 199% of poverty level 612 16.17% 417 10.99% Income 200% of poverty level and above 2,095 55.36% 2,301 60.65% ' Total enumerated by poverty status 3,784 100.00% 3,794 100.00% Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; 1990 U.S. Census; Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. Beaufort has maintained a diversified industrial base. Table 10 provides a summary of the ' industries, employment, product, and union status. 1-13 Table 10 Town of Beaufort, NC Industrial Employers, 1995 Name Products/Services Employees Year Est. Union Atlantic Veneer Corp. Hard & softwood veneers 640 1964 No Aqua-10 Biological & botanical products 10 1976 No Beaufort Fisheries Fishmeal & oil 60-100 1934 No Parker Marine Enterprises Fiberglass boats 90 1968 No Note: All of the above listed industries are located within the Beaufort extraterritorial jurisdiction. Source: 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan; NC Department of Commerce. The town's economy is enhanced by the strength of Carteret County's industrial development. Since 1970, manufacturing has experienced substantial growth both in terms of employment and earnings. In 1989, there were 62 manufacturing facilities located in Carteret County, including the industries located within the Town of Beaufort. With the exception of the Creative Outlet, Inc., all of the above industries are located outside of Beaufort corporate limits but within the extraterritorial jurisdiction. Between 1990 and 1995, the number of employees at the above industries remained stable. Although a sound industrial base is very important to the economy of Beaufort, its primary driving force is tourism and recreation. The area's extensive shoreline resources make it a primary vacation area for the entire east coast of the country. While the greatest tourist impact on the local economy occurs from May to September, visitation figures maintained for the county by the Carteret County Economic Development Council indicate a substantialyear-round economic impact from both day and overnight visitors. Restaurants and motels, sport fishing, retail trade, services, construction, real estate, and finance industries all benefit from overnight and day visitors. In summary, the Beaufort economy appears to be going through a period of transition in terms of the occupational sectors and income levels. In part, the principal agents in the economy were retail trade and health services. In the last ten years, there has been a shift away from commercial fishing and educational services and toward a market dominated by retail trade and tourism. 1-14 1 11 I D. EXISTING LAND USE The Town of Beaufort has managed to maintain a blend of the old and the new. New growth has occurred while historically significant areas and individual properties have been protected. During the 1990-1995 period, new development has slowed from that which was experienced during the late 1980's. The town's focal point continues to be the Beaufort waterfront and central business district. This section provides a comparison of the 1990 and 1995 land uses. Map 1 delineates the 1995 land use patterns. In general, there were no major land use changes from 1990 to 1995. The greatest acreage change occurred in the single-family residential category. The acreages and dwelling unit count summaries for both the city's incorporated area and the extraterritorial jurisdiction are provided in Tables 11, 12, and 13. 1. Urban and Developed Land a. Residential Since 1990, total residential acreage within the town's planning jurisdiction increased by 56.4 acres, an increase of 8.8%. The 1985 to 1990 increase had been over 23%. Most of this growth, 39.9 acres, occurred within the town's. incorporated -area. Almost all of the residential growth, 53.5 acres, was in single-family housing. .Most of this, 31.9 acres, was located within the town's incorporated area. Most of the single-family residential development which occurred within the town's incorporated area from 1990 to 1995 occurred on Briar Patch Drive, Willow Street, West Beaufort Road, and the east end of Lennoxville Road. Other single-family development within the town was dispersed on scattered site family lots. In the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) area, the single-family residential development is concentrated in the single-family subdivisions located off of Steep Point Road east of U.S. 70, and in a single-family subdivision located west of U.S. 70 just north of the corporate limit line. 1-15 PS CS A - /PS CS P 5 TOWN MARSH PS CS Yin 1 VVV e1Rp ��L Qy 4y �TRR.TER •. LEGEND - SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL: %�^„`� ' '1 TRANSPORTATION 6 UTLJTES DUPLEX A MULTI -FAMILY •:'•'.•� PUBLIC INSTITUTIONAL . ® MOBILE HOME - v.',- PARKS & OPEN SPACE _ COMMERCIAL AGRICU1`UIM/VACANT COMMERCIAL. WATER RELATED EXTRA -TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY ® INDUSTRIAL CRY LIMIT BOUNDARY. PS PARTIALLY SUPPORTING WATER - ST SUPPORT -THREATENED WATER CS SA WATER CLOSED TO SHELLFISHING PNA PRIMARY NURSERY AREA b CgRROT d The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant ' provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is ' administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. PON ISLANp O SCALE i 0 400 1200 ' Table 11 Town of Beaufort, NC Existing Land Use Within Town Limits Land Use Acres Density Percent of Total Units (Units/Acre) 1990 1995 1990 1995 1990 1995 1990 1995 [1] [21 [1] [21 [1] [2] [11 [21 ' Single-family 308.6 340.5 39.0 40.5 1,358 1,428 4.40 4.20 Mobile Home 24.5 31.4 3.0 3.7 111 111 4.53 3.53 Multi -Family 73.4 77.0 9.0 9.2 669 402 9.11 5.22 ' Total Residential 406.5 448.9 51.0 53.4 2,138 1,941 5.26 4.32 ' Commercial 91.8 134.5 12.0 16.0 Industrial 12.8 15.1 2.0 1.8 ' Public and Institutional 67.6 78.6 8.0 9.4 ' Utilities 4.4 4.4 1.0 0.5 Agricultural, Forested and Vacant 200.4 158.4 26.0 18.9 ' Totals 783.5 839.9 100.0 100.0 [1 ] Source: 1990 Beaufort Land Use Plan. [2] Source: Field Survey, Holland Consulting Planners, November, 1995. 1-17 Table 12 Town of Beaufort, NC Existing Land Use in Extraterritorial Area Land Use Acres Percent of Total Units Density (Units/Acre) 1990 1995 1990 1995 1990 1995 1990 1995 [1l [21 [1l [21 [11 [21 [11 [21 Single-family 228.5 321.0 10.0 13.3 289 333 1.3 1.0 (includes mobile homes on individual lots) Mobile Home Parks 5.1 1.7 0.2 0.1 40 14 7.8 8.2 Total Residential 233.6 322.7 10.2 13.4 329 347 1.4 1.1 Commercial 14.0 18.9 0.6 0.8 Industrial 102.0 98.9 4.5 4.1 Public and Institutional 126.7 133.1 5.5 5.5 Airport 403.6 403.6 17.7 16.6 Utilities 3.8 3.8 0.2 0.2 Agricultural, Forested and Vacant 1,402.9 1,438.1 61.3 59.4 Totals 2,286.6 2,419.1 100.0 100.0 [11 Source: 1990 Beaufort Land Use Plan. [2) Source: Field Survey, Holland Consulting Planners, November, 1995. 1-18 ' Table 13 Town of Beaufort, NC Existing Land Use - Total Beaufort Planning Area Density ' Land Use Acres- Percent of Total - Units (Units/Acre) 1990 1995 1990 1995 1990 1995 1990 1995 , [1]. _ [2] - [1] [2] [1] [2] [1] [2]. Single-family 537.1 661.5 17.7 20.3 1,647 1,761 3.1 2.7 (includes mobile homes on individual lots) . ' Mobile Home 29.6 33.1 1.0 1.0 151 125 5.1 3.8 Multiple Family 73.4 77.0 2.4 2.4 669 402 9.1 5.2 ' Total Residential 640.1 771.6 21.1 23.7 2,467 2,288 3.9 3.0 Commercial 105.8 153.4 3.5 4.7 Industrial 114.8 114.0 3.7 3.5 Public and Institutional 166.2 211.7 5.5 6.5 Airport 403.6 403.6 13.2 12.4 Utilities 8.2 8.2 0.3 0.3 Agricultural, Forested and Vacant 1,603.3 1,596.5 52.7 48.9 ' Totals 3,042.0 3,259.0 100.0 100.0 [1 ] Source: 1990 Beaufort Land Use Plan. [2] Source: Field Survey, Holland Consulting Planners, November, 1995. 1-19 Table 14 provides a summary of the building permits issued from 1991 to 1995. Based ' on Tables 11 and 12, the average single-family residential density has decreased slightly within both the corporate limits and the ETJ. I There has been almost no change p a since 1990 in the mobile home and du lex/multi- family acreages. In fact, building permits were issued for only 33 apartment units. Table 14 Town of Beaufort, NC Building Permits, 1991 to 1995 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 Residential Permits . - 18 13 12 25 7 t Apartment Units 4 3 7 13 6 Commercial Buildings 6 2 3 4 4 ' The 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use,Plan identified the elimination of substandard housing as a need. It was recommended that the town pursue Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to assist with the elimination of substandard housing. Based on 1995 windshield surveys conducted by Holland Consulting Planners, Inc., approximately 350, or 17%, of the town's total dwelling units were. substandard. The area generally bordered by Craven, Mulberry, March, and Cedar Streets includes the town's primary concentration of ' substandard housing. This area also includes the town's greatest concentrations of low to moderate income and minority families. In February, 1995, the Town of Beaufort submitted an application for $732,OOO in FY95 CDBG funds to improve housing within a portion of this area. The application was not funded in FY95. However, the application has been funded with FY96 CDBG funds. , Map 2 delineates the FY96 CDBG project area and identifies the condition of structures within the area. The grant will accomplish the following: rehabilitate 21 dwelling units to , standard condition, demolish seven dilapidated dwelling units, relocate one rental household, and install drainage improvements in a secondary (local option) target area located on the block surrounded by Pollock, Marsh, Broad, and Cedar Streets. Implementation of this project I will eliminate approximately 8% of the town's substandard housing. At the time of plan preparation, only two new residential developments were being ' considered. One, located in the ETJ, was a subdivision containing 10 lots of 10 acres each. Because of lot size, the subdivision would not require subdivision approval by the Town of Beaufort or the dedication of public roads. A second residential subdivision was being , considered within the Town of Beaufort off of Lennoxville Road. It was anticipated that the subdivision would be designed for 28 to 52 cluster type dwelling units. The town's planning board was considering revising its zoning ordinance to accommodate this development. 1-20 IJ In O rn 1,1 +�-+ C School O p O O p O Q 00 O p CL Mulberry Street 0 1 O K Pine Street Cedar Street Fri I 1 -1 ------- -1 F. "E" - Classified for exterior deficiencies. "I" - Classified for interior deficiencies. MAP 2 BEAUFORT, NC FY96 CDBG PROJECT AREA EXISTING HOUSING CONDITIONS The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Scale: 1" = 15o, KEY TO HOUSING NEEDS: PROPOSED PROJECT LIMITS FRAME BUILT DWELLING O MOBILE HOME ❑ COMMERCIAL STRUCTURE ❑ MINOR/NON-NEED O = ❑ MODERATELY DETERIORATED @ SEVERELY DETERIORATED 0 Q DILAPIDATED • VACANT UNIT V 1-21 b. Commercial As cited in the 1990 Land Use Plan, Beaufort historically has had a large amount of commercial land use for a town of less than 5,000 population. Many comparable North Carolina coastal communities have less than 5% of their incorporated land area devoted to commercial usage. Beaufort had 12% and 16% of its incorporated area in 1990 and 1995, respectively, devoted to commercial usage. Much of this commercial development may be attributed to the town's waterfront development and position as a tourist center. While local service retail development is increasing along U.S. 70 north of Beaufort, the waterfront area continues to be the town's primary commercial service area. From 1990 to 1995, there was very little commercial development within the town's ETJ. This was a significant change from the 1985 to 1990 period when approximately seven acres of the ETJ was commercially developed. During the 1990 to 1995 period, almost all, or 42.7 acres of commercial development occurred within the town's incorporated area. Most of this commercial development occurred along Cedar Street and U.S. 70 from Steep Point Road, north to the town's corporate limit line. The largest single development was the Food Lion Shopping Center located west of U.S. 70 adjacent to the town's northern corporate limit line. The U.S. 70 corridor continues to be rapidly commercialized. As stated in the 1990 Land Use Plan: "Without proper control, the U.S. 70 north corridor will become a continuous ' strip of commercial development. Most of the development proposals have been for integrated site developments or "shopping centers". Therefore, the opportunity for good design and traffic control exists." Congestion continues to be heavy along this corridor. In 1994, the annual average daily 24-hour volume traffic count was 21,700 vehicles. There are a total of 18 marinas/dockages located in Beaufort which include a total of 789 slips. Table 15 provides a summary of the marinas. Table 15 Town of Beaufort, NC Marinas Marina Name Water Body Marina Type Total Slips Airport Marina Town Creek 14 Beaufort City Docks Beaufort Gulf Docks Beaufort Inn Beaufort Lndg. Vllg. Hmown. Assoc. Beaufort Marine Discount Beaufort Yacht Sales/Charters, Inc. Taylor's Creek Gallants Channel Taylor's Creek Bock Marine Builders, Inc. AIW 148 Marina 15 Res. Marina 35 13 Boatyard 100 1 1-22 Table 15 (continued) Marina Name Water Body Marina Type Total Slips Discovery Diving Co. Town Creek Marina 24 Gillikin Craft, Inc. Morgan Creek 3 Island Marina Mouth of Newport 10 ' River Lane's Marina Morgan Creek Marina 46 Mason's Marina Core Creek/Core ' Creek Swing Bridge Morehead Sports Marina Newport River Marina 70 North West Creek Marina ' Piver's Island Marina Gallants Chnnl/ Piver's Isl. Bridge Radio Island Marina AIWW/Morehead Marina 185 City Port Terminal Town Creek Marina Town Creek/ Gallants Channel Mar./Boatyard 153 , Source: NC Division of Coastal Management. C. Industrial Industrial development continues to occupy only a small portion of Beaufort's land area. Most of the industrial development within the Beaufort area is located within the extraterritorial jurisdiction. The largest industrial land use, Atlantic Veneer and Plywood, is located on the east end of Mulberry Street. Other major industrial uses are concentrated around the Michael J. Smith Airport. The total industrial acreage within the town's planning jurisdiction has remained relatively unchanged with only a .8 acre decrease. However, the industrial acreage within the corporate limits increased slightly by 2.3 acres. The industrial acreage in the ETJ actually decreased by 3.1 acres. This was the result of industrial property on east Lennoxville Road converting to the Taylor's Creek subdivision. Extension of water and sewer service into the extraterritorial jurisdiction may encourage the spread of industrial development away from the town. However, industrial development is expected to continue to occupy only a small percentage of the land area within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. d. Institutional The Town of Beaufort contains a significant amount of public and institutional land use. The town serves as the county seat and contains the county's administrative, law enforcement, and court facilities. The main county complex is located south of U.S. 70 between Turner and Craven Streets. There has been an eleven acre increase in institutional land use acreage within the town between 1990 and 1995. Much of this increase was the result of the annexation of the Duke Marine Laboratories located on Pivers Island. Within the town limits, other institutional uses include Beaufort government facilities, mariners' museum, public library, churches, cemeteries, and Beaufort Elementary School and Beaufort Middle School 1-23 11 In 1990, there were only 126.7 acres of institutional land use within the extraterritorial area. Most of that area was occupied by Beaufort or Carteret County facilities. Since, then, the extraterritorial institutional land use has increased to 133.1 acres. This increase was primarily the result of the development of church property adjacent to the northern corporate limits line west of U.S. 70 north of Beaufort. (Note: Pivers Island is not included in the town's ETJ.) ' e. Transportation and Public Utilities ' This category includes all roadways, utility holdings, town -owned services such as water and sewer lines, and electric utility systems. The Michael J. Smith Airport is discussed as a separate land use category. The town provides complete water and sewer service to the ' majority of the properties within the town limits. Subdivision developments within the extraterritorial area have added new streets and utility systems since 1990. Approximately 1,100 linear feet of paved road have been constructed since 1990. Within the planning period, further extensions of water and sewer utilities into the extraterritorial area will occur, serving as a catalyst for development. ' The 1990 Land Use Plan cited as a major problem the disruption of vehicular and rail access along U.S. 70 at Beaufort Channel when the road and rail drawbridges were raised. Railroad service to the Town of Beaufort was discontinued in November, 1995. In early 1996, the town was in the process of removing the abandoned railroad tracks and attempting to acquire the railroad right-of-way. The disruption to vehicular traffic continues ' to exist. f. Airport 11 The Michael J. Smith Airport is a major land use, occupying 403 acres. The facility is located northwest of Beaufort between N.C. 101 and the Newport River. The 1992 North Carolina Airport -System Plan identifies the airport as a general utility airport which can accommodate virtually all small general aviation aircraft and some of the larger twin engine aircraft. The airport has 67 based aircraft which have 48,980 annual operations (each take off or landing constitutes an operation). Currently, the airport offers one FBO with hangar/tie- down space, fuel, and maintenance/repair service. By 2010, it was anticipated that the airport will develop into a transport airport designed and built for business jets and transport aircraft with 70 based aircraft and 51,100 annual operations. Since 1990, the following airports improvements have been accomplished: -- Installed a non -directional beacon (a navigational device to assist pilots flying in instrument conditions); -- Upgraded the airport's lighting system; -- Sealed the runways; -- Installed an AWOS (Automated Weather Observing System). g. Agricultural, Forested, and Vacant Land The agricultural, forested, and vacant land area within the town's 1990 corporate limit area decreased by approximately 42 acres from 1990 to 1995. However, approximately 43 acres of vacant land were annexed during the period. Within the extraterritorial area, the 1-24 agricultural, forested, and vacant land increased by approximately 35 acres. Most of this ' decrease occurred as a result of land lost to residential development. The decrease of vacant land within the extraterritorial jurisdiction is expected to continue through the planning period. h. Annexations From 1990 to 1995, 8 minor annexations occurred totaling 56.38 acres in area. All , of the annexed areas except for the Duke Marine Laboratories, located on Piver's Island, and a mobile home park were vacant. The vacant areas included approximately 43 acres. In addition, the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction was extended to the north along both sides of ' U.S. 70. The additional ETJ included approximately 217 acres. The town continues to annex property without having adopted a comprehensive ' annexation plan or policy. However, the town initiated a satellite annexation policy in February, 1995. The following is a portion of the town's satellite annexation checklist which will be used when considering a non-contiguous area for annexation. It should be noted that the complete checklist includes additional, more specific criteria for single-family/tract annexation, sub -division annexation, and industrial site annexation. Legal requirements: Must meet all five ' -- Meets minimum 3 mile limit. -- Town services can be extended. -- Not a sub -division portion. -- Area/total will not exceed 10% primary corporate limits. -- All real property owners have signed request. Factors to Consider: -- Located on Highway 70 accessible to wastewater line. -- Cost of providing town services. -- Single-family parcel. -- Multi -family parcel(s) or subdivision. -- Business/Industrial site. -- Located in area proposed for future annexation. -- Affect of annexation on qualifying of area for involuntary annexation. -- In compliance with Land Use Plan, town growth plan. -- Significant health, educational, cultural, and economic benefit. -- Anticipated ad valorem revenues. i. Basinwide Water Quality Management The Water Quality Section of the North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (NCDEM) has initiated a basinwide approach to state water quality management. The overall goal of basinwide management is to develop consistent and effective long range water quality management strategies that protect the quality and intended uses of North Carolina's surface waters while accommodating population increases and economic growth. The State of North Carolina has been divided into seventeen major river basins. For each river basin, water quality problems are identified and appropriate management strategies 1-25 ' developed. The plan features basinwide permitting of pollution discharges, integration of existing point and nonpoint source control programs, and preparation of a basinwide management plan report. The purpose of the basinwide management plan is to communicate to policy makers, the regulated community, and the general public, the state's rationale, approaches, and long- term strategies for each basin. Preparation of a basinwide management plan is a five year process. In general, this process involves the following five major phases of development: Collecting pertinent water quality and related information, Analyzing the information and targeting problem areas, -- Development management strategies, Circulating a draft plan for public review and comment, and Finalizing the plan. Beaufort is located in the White Oak basin. The White Oak basinwide management plan was submitted for staff review in January, 1996, and received Environmental Management Commission approval in January, 1997. ' Some of the major issues being addressed in the White Oak basinwide plan are as follows: Long-term Growth Management Wastewater management (non -discharge, regionalization, ocean outfall). -- Urban stormwater runoff/water quality. ' -- Role of local land use planning. Shellfish Water Closures Increases in number of acres closed. Examine link between growth and closures. -- Opportunities for restoration and prevention. ' Animal Operation Waste Management -- Between 1990-1991, swine population has more than doubled. ' Nutrients/Toxic Dinoflagellate Reduction in nitrogen and phosphorous levels. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has identified 24 watersheds within the White Oak Basin. Each watershed has been assigned a fourteen -digit code for the purpose of identification. The town's planning jurisdiction is almost equally divided between two watersheds. Watershed 03020106040010 includes the eastern portion of town and watershed 03020106030070 includes the western portion of town. The primary waterbodies for these watersheds include the North and Newport Rivers. The watershed boundary is delineated on Map 3. Table 16 provides a summary of base and demographic information for each watershed. 1-26 M M M M MEW M MMMM M M M r M M M M The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. WATERSHED 03020106030070 'a+w MAP 3 BEAUFORT, NC WATERSHED BOUNDARY SCALE 01 0 400 1200 WATERSHED 03020106040010 �����► WATERSHED BOUNDARY 1-27 � i� lii� � i� � � iii� I' � � � � � � � � � !♦ Table 16 Carteret County Watershed Report Watershed 03020106040010 and 03020106030070 Base and Demographic Data Estimated Population Person Per Acre Primary Area (Acres) % Chg. Incorporated Areas 14-Digit Code Waterbody Total Land Water 1980 1990 80-90 1980 1990 Overlapping Wsheds 03020106040010 North River 42,338.3 32,339.8 9,998.5 4,588 5,869 27.9% 0.14 0.18 Beaufort 03020106030070 Newport River 17,327.8 11,138.5 6,189.2 11,640 14,887 27.9% 1.05 1.34 Beaufort Morehead City Source: N.C. Division of Coastal Management. 1-28 ,I] Issues which directly affect Beaufort include: -- Regulation of urban stormwater runoff -- Control of agricultural runoff -- Protection of groundwater quality ' -- Preservation of water quality in Taylor's Creek and around Carrot Island. The majority, approximately 65 to 70 percent, of the developed property and ' impervious surfaces within the town's planning jurisdiction are located within watershed 03020106030070 (Newport River primary waterbody). However, the town's sewage treatment plant discharges into Taylor's Creek in watershed 03020106040010 (North River ' primary waterbody). 2. Summary: Town of Beaufort Existinq Land Use Problems ' The Town of Beauforthas an active planning process. In 1990, the town's Board of Commissioners served as the Board of Adjustment. The 1990 Land Use Plan recommended ' that this be eliminated and a separate Board of Adjustment established. Subsequent to 1990, a separate board of adjustment was established. The Town of Beaufort Board of Adjustment currently serves both Board of Adjustment and Planning Board functions. This board has been ' instrumental in the preparation of this land use plan and the definition of key land use issues which should be addressed in the future planning and policy statements section of this plan. In addition, input from the public at large was solicited throughout the process of updating this plan. The following summarizes the key land use issues which should be addressed: -- The effects of sea level rise on the Town of Beaufort. -- Construction of a new bridge on U.S. 70 at Beaufort Channel to alleviate disruptions to east -west traffic. t-- Continued expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport. -- Extension of water and sewer utilities into the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction. -- Coordination of the development/improvement of the Beaufort sewage treatment system with Carteret County's plans and policies for the development of sewage treatment system(s). -- The impact of offshore drilling on the Town of Beaufort. -- Protection of the Rachel Carson National Estuarine Sanctuary which includes Carrot Island, Town Marsh, and Bird Shoal. Control along U.S. 70 north. -- of strip commercialization ' -- Continued protection of the town's historic district. -- Implementation of redevelopment/revitalization projects to eliminate substandard ' housing. 1-29 -- Establishment of a comprehensive annexation plan. -- Development of service industry to support tourism. -- Protection of Areas of Environmental Concern -- Establishment of a Growth Management Plan. -- Urban stormwater and agricultural runoff are detrimental to water quality within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. 3. Existinq Ordinance and Land Use Controls The Town of Beaufort has enforced zoning and subdivision regulations since 1977 and 1979, respectively. These provide the basis of the town's planning and land use control programs. The town has established extraterritorial jurisdiction and enforces land use controls within that area. As annexation actions occur, the town should continuously extend its extraterritorial area. a. Zoning Ordinance Beaufort's zoning ordinance is generally consistent with the N.C.G.S 160A-381 which is the enabling legislation for the preparation of zoning ordinances for municipalities. The ordinance provides for 14 separate zoning districts which may be divided into residential, business, industrial, open space, and historic districts. In the spring of 1996, the town amended the ordinance to allow cluster residential subdivision development. A significant aspect of the zoning ordinance is the Historic District. The historic heritage of Beaufort is among its most valued and important asset. It is the intent of the Historic District regulations to promote the educational, cultural, and general welfare of the public through the preservation and protection of historical buildings, places and areas, and to maintain such lands as examples of past architectural styles. b. Subdivision Regulations The Town of Beaufort subdivision regulations are consistent with N.C.G.S. 160A-371 which is the enabling legislation for adoption of subdivision regulations of municipalities. However, the regulations should be updated to ensure consistency with current state statutes and to consider the following: allowance of private streets; updated requirements for information to be shown on preliminary and final plats; and delineation of freshwater wetlands and other areas of environmental concern. C. Flood Plain Development Ordinance The Town of Beaufort participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and complies with all related regulatory requirements. Development proposals and subdivision plats are reviewed to ensure consistency with the flood insurance program. 1-30 d. Floating Home Ordinance ' In 1983, the town adopted an ordinance establishing areas and required registration and fees for live -aboard boats anchoring in Taylor's Creek. The ordinance prohibited the discharge of untreated sewage or other waste materials. Subsequent to 1985, legal action against the town's ordinance was pursued by an individual. The ordinance was found to be ' unconstitutional. Beaufort has not repealed the ordinance. However, the town should repeal the ordinance and adopt a new Floating Home Ordinance which will be legally defensible. 1 e. Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan In June, 1984, the Town of Beaufort adopted a detailed Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan ' and Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan. The plan has satisfactorily served the town and will continue to be utilized as the town's storm mitigation plan. 1 f. Thoroughfare Plan The Carteret County Thoroughfare Plan was under review and study in 1995. The draft document was endorsed by the Town of Beaufort but not yet adopted. g. Building Code The Town of Beaufort enforces the North Carolina State Building Code. h. Minimum Housing Code In 1989, the Town of Beaufort adopted a minimum housing code. The code sets minimum standards to which residential structures must be maintained. The town's Building Inspections Department enforces the code. 4. Develonment Potential In 1990, a total of 1,603 acres of agricultural, forested, and vacant land remained within the town's planning jurisdiction. Of this total, 200 acres were located within the corporate limits and 1,403 acres were located within the town's ETJ. Some of this land is potential 404 or coastal wetland areas and not available for development. How much is actually wetland can only be verified through field inspection and analysis. Based on continuation of the rate of consumption of agricultural, forested, and vacant land which occurred from 1990 to 1995, total build -out of the existing corporate limits would require approximately eight to ten years. Build -out of the ETJ would require approximately 20 to 25 years. Thus, without annexation, the majority of the development during and beyond the planning period will occur within the town's ETJ. The following factors will stimulate growth within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction: -- Continuing improvements at the Michael J. Smith Airport are increasing the ability of the facility to accommodate business/corporate aircraft operations. 1-31 -- Water and sewer service has been extended to all areas within the town's corporate limits and throughout much of the ETJ. Since 1985 major renovations to the sewer system have been accomplished. -- Beaufort's physical features serve as a stimulant for growth. The town's total planning jurisdiction contains only small fragile area or areas of environmental concern. In addition, most of the town's land area is at least marginally suited for development. -- The town's Historic District and properties as well as the downtown commercial area's waterfront location serve as strong tourist attractions. _- The town's water system extends along U.S. 70 and S.R. 1300 (Merrimon Road), north of Beaufort to the Merrimon Community. -- Carteret County has experienced strong population growth. From 1980 to 1994, Carteret County was the sixth fastest growing CAMA-regulated county and was 24th in the entire state. E. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY 1. Topography/Geology The area within Beaufort and its extraterritorial jurisdiction is flat with the elevation generally varying less than three feet. Elevations range from mean sea level to approximately twelve feet above mean sea level. Topography is not considered to be a serious constraint to development. Carteret County is underlain by an eastward -thickening wedge of sedimentary deposits of Pleistocene -age, ranging from 2,000 feet thick in the northwest portions of the county to almost 7,000 feet thick beneath the easternmost sections of offshore strand. Because of the depth of the surficial sand/siliceous deposits, little is known of the composition of underlying deposits. Well logs indicate that shell fragments and calcareous material are consolidated into a limestone at a depth of less than .120 feet west of Morehead City, and at increasing depths further eastward. Microfossils obtained from some well samples indicate that the uppermost consolidated limestone is probably part of the Yorktown formation. The Beaufort water system obtains water from an aquifer located in the Yorktown/Castle Hayne formations. Based on existing analysis of well yields, the groundwater supply is adequate to serve existing demand. However, salt water intrusion may be an increasing concern as demand for water grows. About 2,500 square miles of the Castle Hayne aquifer, including the portion underlying Carteret County, have been designated as a capacity use area by the NC Groundwater Section due to large (68 MGD in 1986) groundwater withdrawals by the PCS phosphate mine near Aurora. A capacity use area is defined as an area where the use of water resources threatens to exceed the replenishment ability to the extent that regulation may be required. 1-32 r ' 2. Flood Hazard Areas ' The Town of Beaufort has a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). The town's Building Inspector enforces the Floodplain Development Ordinance. The map designates "A" flood zones, which are areas that will experience rising flood waters with little or no wave action. The "A" zone is specifically defined as Special Flood Hazard Areas inundated by the 100-year flood, tdetermined by approximate methods; no base flood elevations are shown or flood hazard factors determined. During the 100-year flood, the FIRM indicates that flood water from Town Creek will meet water from Turner Creek, making the south end of the peninsula an island. Approximately 30 percent of Beaufort's planning jurisdiction is within the 100-year floodplain and over 50 percent of its area is above the 500-year flood level. Map 4 delineates the 100-year floodplain area. ' In 1986, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers prepared maps of coastal North Carolina which delineated storm surge flooding. The maps were prepared using a computer base model named SLOSH, Sea Lake Overlaid Surge from Hurricanes. The model plots hurricane -related ' flooding which may result from a number of characteristics including wind speed, wind direction, time tide, etc. The following defines the five storm surge categories: Category 1. Winds of 74 to 95 miles per hour. Damage primarily to shrubbery, trees, foliage, and unanchored mobile homes. No appreciable wind damage to other structures. Some damage to poorly constructed signs. Storm surge possibly 4 to 5 feet above normal. Low-lying roads inundated, minor pier damage, some small craft in exposed anchorage torn from ' moorings. Category 2. Winds of 96 to 110 miles per hour. Considerable damage to shrubbery and tree foliage; some trees blown down. Major damage to exposed mobile homes. Extensive damage to poorly constructed signs. Some damage to roofing materials of buildings; some window and door damage. No major wind damage to buildings. Storm surge possibly 6 to 8 feet above normal. Coastal roads and low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising water 2 to 4 hours before arrival of hurricane center. Considerable damage to piers. Marinas flooded. Small craft in unprotected anchorages torn from moorings. Evacuation of some shoreline residences and low-lying island areas required. ' Category 3. Winds of 111 to 130 miles per hour. Foliage torn from trees; large trees blown down. Practically all poorly constructed signs blown down. Some damage to roofing materials of buildings; some window and door damage. Some structural damage to small buildings. Mobile homes destroyed. Storm surge possibly 9 to 12 feet above normal. Serious flooding at coast and many smaller structures near coast destroyed; larger structures near coast ' damaged by battering waves and floating debris. Low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising water 3 to 5 hours before hurricane center arrives. Category 4. Winds of 131 to 155 miles per hour. Shrubs and trees blown down; all signs down. Extensive damage to roofing materials, windows, and doors. Complete failure of roofs on many small residences. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Storm surge possibly 13 to 18 feet above normal. Major damage to lower floors of structures near shore due to flooding ' and battering by waves and floating debris. Low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising water 3 to 5 hours before hurricane center arrives. Major erosion of beaches. Category 5. Winds greater than 155 miles per hour. Shrubs and trees blown down; considerable damage to roofs of buildings; all signs down. Very severe and extensive damage 1-33 to windows and doors. Complete failure of roofs on many residences and industrial buildings. Extensive shattering of glass in windows and doors. Some complete building failures. Small buildings overturned or blown away. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Storm surge possibly greater than 18 feet above normal. Major damage to lower floors of all structures less than 15 feet above sea level. Low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising water 3 to 5 hours before hurricane center arrives. Map 5 indicates the areas in Beaufort's planning jurisdiction which may be affected by hurricane -generated storm surge. Flooding resulting from sea level rise may be a long-term problem. Over the last 100 years, the sea level has risen approximately one foot. Most experts agree that the rate of sea level rise will increase over the next one hundred years. The maximum increase has been forecast to be as much as four to seven feet. An increase of that magnitude would be disastrous to the town and its extraterritorial area. Over 50% of the town's planning jurisdiction could be inundated and most of the incorporated area would be flooded. The impact of sea level rise has serious adverse implications for Beaufort. The rate of rise should be carefully monitored. The vacant areas on the south side of Front Street are zoned R-8. This zoning allows only non-commercial docks and piers. This type of control will reduce the adverse impacts of sea level rise. However, the town should cooperate with Carteret County to develop additional programs and controls to respond to the impact of sea level rise. 1-34 = 1=1 1=1 = = r The preparation of this map was financed In part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which Is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. CIrrRA,TFRRrOR MAP 4 �`°�"OqR,. BEAUFORT, N.C. 100 YEAR FLOOD PLAIN AREA SCALE 0 400 1200 LEGEND ••••—•••• CITY LIMIT BOUNDARY EXTRA -TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY 100 YEAR FLOOD AREA FP 1-35 - � � I� liiiiiii� ii� illll■ii� � MAP 5 TOWN OF BEAUFORT STORM SURGE INUNDATION AREAS LEGEND Category 1 2 Surge Area Category 3 Additional Surge Area Category 4 -5 Additional Surge Area SCALE IN MILES The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 1-36 3. Soils A detailed soils survey of Carteret County has been completed by the Soil Conservation Service. Based on that survey, there are 20 different soil types located within Beaufort's ' planning area. These soil types are delineated on Map 6 and their conditions for site development are provided in Table 17. Most soils within the Beaufort planning area are either suitable or moderately suitable for development. However, because of a high water table, ' limitations exist for shallow excavation. The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. SC AaA Altavista Ag Augusta Ap Arapahoe ByB Baymeade '. CH Carteret CnB Conetoe Cu Corolla -Urban De Deloss KuB Kureb Ln Leon Lu Leon -Urban MC Mandarin -Urban Mn Mandarin Mu Murville Nd Newhan Se Seabrook StA State Tm Tomotley WaB Wando WuB Wando-Urban MAP 6 BEAUFORT, N.C. SOILS MAP SCALE 0 400 1200 GRTM CITY LIMIT BOUNDARY--••••-•»•- EXTRA-TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY .•••.•� 1-38 Table 17 Town of Beaufort, NC Soil Conditions for Building Site Development Dwellings Small Soil Name and Shallow without Dwellings with Commercial Local Roads and Lawns and Map Symbol Excavations Basements Basements Buildings Streets Landscaping Altavista (AaA) Severe: Moderate: Severe: Moderate: Moderate: Moderate: wetness, wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. cutbanks cave. Augusta (Ag) Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Moderate: Moderate: wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. low strength, wetness. wetness. Arapahoe (Ap) Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: cutbanks cave, flooding, flooding, flooding, wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. Baymeade (ByB) Severe: Slight Moderate: Slight Slight Severe: cutbanks cave. wetness. droughty. Carteret (CH) Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: excess cutbanks cave, flooding, flooding, flooding, flooding, salt, ponding, ponding. ponding. ponding. ponding. ponding. droughty. Conetoe (CnB) Severe: Slight Slight Slight Slight Moderate: cutbanks cave droughty. Corolla -Urban Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Moderate: Severe: (Cu) cutbanks cave, flooding. flooding, flooding. flooding, droughty. wetness. wetness. wetness. Hobuken (HB) Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: ponding. flooding, flooding, flooding, flooding, flooding, ponding. ponding. ponding. ponding ponding. Kureb (KuB) Severe: Slight Slight Slight Slight Severe: cutbanks cave. droughty. Leon (Ln) Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: cutbanks cave, wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness, wetness. droughty. 1-39 Table 17 (continued) Soil Name and Shallow Map Symbol Excavations Dwellings without Basements Dwellings with Basements Small Commercial Buildings Local Roads and Streets Lawns and Landscaping Leon -Urban (Lu) Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: cutbanks cave, wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness, wetness. droughty. Mandarin -Urban Severe: Moderate: Severe: Moderate: Moderate: Moderate: NO cutbanks cave, wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. droughty, too wetness. sandy. Mandarin (Mn) Severe: Moderate: Severe: Moderate: Moderate: Moderate: cutbanks cave, wetness. wetness.. wetness. wetness. droughty, too wetness. sandy. Murville NO Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: cutbanks cave. ponding. ponding. ponding. ponding. ponding. Newhan (Nd) Severe: Severe: slope. Severe: slope. Severe: slope. Severe: slope. Severe: cutbanks cave, droughty, slope. slope. Seabrook (Se) Severe: Moderate: Severe: Moderate: Moderate: Severe: cutbanks cave, wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. droughty. wetness. State (StA) Severe: Slight Moderate: Slight Moderate: low Slight cutbanks cave. wetness. strength. Tomotley (Tm) Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: Severe: wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. wetness. Wando (WaB) Severe: Slight Slight Slight Slight Moderate: cutbanks cave. droughty. Wando-Urban Severe: Slight Slight Slight Slight Moderate: (WuB) cutbanks cave. droughty. Source: U.S. Soil Conservation Service 1-40 ' 4. Manmade Hazards/Restrictions The most significant manmade hazard within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction is the Michael J. ' Smith Airport. The airport is located northwest of the town in an area of increasing development. The Beaufort -Morehead City, Airport Authority is considering lengthening Runway 8-26 to accommodate "light" jet aircraft. This extension could require relocation of ' a portion of NC 101 and result in further impact of air operations on surrounding areas. Other manmade hazards within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction include the following: ' Atlantic Veneer, Mulberry Street, Beaufort Propane/Propylene/Hydrochloric Acid/Caustic Soda- Anhydrous/Isopropyl Alcohol/Casamite/Sodium Hypro- ' chlorite/Fuel Oil/Kerosene/Perchlorothylene/Ammonium Chloride/Caustic Soda/Hydrogen/Sodium Hydroxide/Xylene/ Aliphatic Alcohol Town .of Beaufort A. Town Garage - Unleaded and Diesel Fuel ' B. Water Plant -Chlorine . C. Waste Treatment Plant - Chlorine Beaufort Gulf Dock, 330 Front Street, Beaufort Fuel Storage Beaufort Ice and Coal Company ' Ammonia (Ice Plant) 11 Beaufort Fisheries Fuel Storage Carteret Quick Freeze, End of Anne Street West, Beaufort Ammonia (Ice Plant) Town Creek Marina, West Beaufort Road ' Fuel Storage U.S. Route 70 Transportation corridor utilized for the transmit of "hazardous materials." As a result of recently adopted federal regulations concerning underground storage tanks, the threat of explosion or groundwater contamination from existing underground storage tanks should decrease. Located immediately west of Beaufort's planning jurisdiction is Radio Island. The island contains 25,000,000-gallon storage of jet aircraft fuel. The fuel from these tanks is shipped westward by rail and does not pass through Beaufort. However, the threat of fire and ' explosions is a concern to the Town of Beaufort. 5. Fragile Areas In coastal North Carolina, fragile areas are considered to include coastal wetlands, sand dunes, ocean beaches, shorelines, estuarine waters and shorelines, public trust waters, complex natural areas, areas sustaining remnant species, unique geological formations, registered natural landmarks, swamps, prime wildlife habitats, scenic points, archaeological sites, historical sites, and fresh water wetlands. The Town of Beaufort's planning jurisdiction includes or is adjacent to estuarine waters and shorelines, coastal wetlands, and public trust waters. Map 7 provides a delineation of the Areas of Environmental Concern. These are areas which could easily be damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or poorly planned development. a. Coastal Wetlands The coastal wetlands are generally delineated on Map 7, Areas of Environmental Concern. However, it is emphasized that the specific locations of coastal wetlands can be determined only through on -site investigation and analysis. Coastal wetlands are defined as salt marshes regularly- or irregularly -flooded by tides including wind tides, provided this shall not include hurricane or tropical storm tides. This area contains some, but not necessarily all of the following marsh plant species: Cordgrass, Black Needlerush, Glasswort, Salt Grass, Sea Lavendar, Bulrush, Saw Grass, Cat -tail, Salt Meadow Grass, and Salt Reed Grass. The coastal wetlands are vital to the complex food chain found in estuaries. They provide marine nursery areas and are essential to a sound commercial fishing industry. Coastal wetlands also serve as barriers against flood damage and control erosion between the estuary and uplands. b. Estuarine Waters Estuarine waters are generally those waters found in estuaries, bays, and salt water shorelines. They are the dominant component and bonding element of the entire estuarine system, integrating aquatic influences from both the land and the sea. The estuarine waters are among the most productive natural environments within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. The waters support the valuable commercial and sports fisheries of the coastal area which are comprised of estuarine dependent species such as menhaden, flounder, shrimp, crabs, and oysters. C. Estuarine Shorelines Estuarine shorelines are those non -ocean shorelines which are especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse effects of wind and water. They are intimately connected to the estuary. The area extends from the mean high water level or normal water level along the estuaries, sounds, bays, and brackish waters for a distance of 75 feet landward. Development within the estuarine shorelines influences the quality of estuarine life and is subject to the damaging processes of shorefront erosion and flooding. d. Public Trust Areas Public trust areas are all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder from the mean high water mark to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction; all natural bodies of water subject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean high water mark; all navigable natural bodies of water and lands thereunder to the mean high water level or mean 1-42 NOTES: 1. ALL AREAS LYING 0-75' LANDWARD OF THE MEAN HIGH WATER LEVEL OF ESTUARINE 2. ALL WATERS IN BEAUFORT'S PLANNING JURISDICTION ARE CLASSIFIED AS ESTUARINE WATERS ARE ESTUARINE SHORELINE AREAS WATERS AS DESCRIBED BY 15 NCAC 7H.0206, AND CLASSIFIED AS CONSERVATION LANDS. BECAUSE OF MAP SCALE. THESE AREAS OR PUBLIC TRUST AREAS AS DESCRIBED BY 15 NCAC 7H.0207. ALL DEVELOPMENT SHALL BE CANNOT BE ACCURATELY MAPPED. PRECISE CONSISTANT WITH THE USE STANDARDS LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED IN THE CONTAINED IN 15 NCAC 7H.0206 AND .0207. FIELD. . LEGEND COASTAL WETLANDS ESTUARINE SYSTEM ISLANDS. •-� � ►- Y CITY LIMIT BOUNDARY EXTRA -TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY 011-: b+a MAP 7 BEAUFORT, N.C. AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN SCALE 0 400 1200 W-V The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 1-43 ' water: level as the case may be, except privately -owned lakes to which the public has no right of access; all water in artificially created bodies of water containing significant public fishing resources or other public resources which are accessible to the public by navigation; and all waters in artificially created bodies of water in which the public has acquired rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other means. In determining whether the public has acquired rights in artificially created bodies of water, the following factors shall be ' considered: -- the use of the body of water by the public, ' -- the length of time the public has used the area, -- the value of public resources in the body of water, -- whether the public resources in the body of water are mobile to the extent that ' -- they can move into natural bodies of water, whether the creation of the artificial body of water required permission from the state, and ' -- the value of the body of water to the public for navigation from one public area to another public area. ' These areas are significant because the public has rights in these areas, including navigation and recreation. The public trust areas also support valuable commercial and sports fisheries, have aesthetic value, and are important resources for economic development. It is impossible to map the public trust area. The areas must be determined through in -field analysis and definition. e. Historic and Archaeological Sites The Town of Beaufort is nationally recognized for the significance of its historic sites. A National Register Historic District was established in Beaufort in the 1970's. However, a local historic district was not established until 1985. The Historic District is delineated on Map 7, Areas of Environmental Concern. The Beaufort Historic District was described in the 1985 Land Use Plan as "the most distinctively coastal historic community along the North Carolina coast." While few of the buildings have significant architectural merit, the area has maintained its overall architectural and historic integrity. The specific local architectural details for which the area is noted include roof lines, chimneys, porches, and mantels. The following structures located in Beaufort are listed in the National Register of Historic Places: Carteret County Home Gibbs House Jacob Henry House Old Burying Ground Highway 101 903 Front Street 229 Front Street Block between Ann, Craven, and Broad Streets Local significance National significance State significance Local significance ' I-44 The Beaufort Historical Association maintains a complex of restored buildings on Turner Street within the Historic District. The complex is an assortment of restored period buildings representing early coastal North Carolina life. The buildings are open six days a week, year round, and costumed hostesses provide guided tours. There are also some potentially significant historic and archaeological sites scattered along Beaufort's shoreline areas. It is recommended by the town that the North Carolina Department of Archives and Natural History be contacted prior to any land or river/sound bottom disturbing activities. f. Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary While the Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary is primarily a coastal wetland AEC, it demands special attention. In 1983 it was formally designated as part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System by the U.S. Department of Commerce. The Reserve was dedicated as a State Nature Preserve in 1987. It encompasses 2,625 acres of islands, marshes, intertidal flats, tidal creeks, and shallow estuarine waters that have been acquired by the state. The property lies across Taylor's Creek from the Beaufort waterfront and includes: Carrot and Horse Islands, Bird Shoal, Town Marsh, and Middle Marshes. The area supports significant coastal flora and fauna, including a population of feral horses. Thus, it serves as a natural outdoor laboratory for estuarine education. Estuarine research has been performed on the site for decades because of its proximity to Duke University Marine Laboratory, the National Marine Fisheries Laboratory, the University of North Carolina Institute of Marine Sciences, and the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries. As part of the North Carolina Coastal Reserve, the Rachel Carson site is managed by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management for research, education, and compatible recreational uses according to a federally -approved management plan. g. Freshwater Wetlands Freshwater wetlands are areas covered by water orthat have waterlogged soils for long periods during the growing season. Plants growing in wetlands are capable of living in soils lacking oxygen for at least part of the growing season. Some wetlands, such as swamps, are obvious. Others are sometimes difficult to identify because they may be dry during part of the year. Wetlands include, but are not limited to, bottomlands, forests, swamps, pocosins, pine savannahs, bogs, marshes, and wet meadows. . Section 404 of the Clean Water Act requires that anyone interested in depositing dredged or fill material into "waters of the United States," including wetlands, must apply for and receive a permit for such activities. Development interests and individuals who either knowingly or through ignorance violate the provisions of Section 404 may face substantial costs in restoring damaged wetlands as well as civil and criminal penalties. While there are scattered wetland areas located within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction, the specific locations of wetlands areas must be determined through specific on -site analysis. However, it appears that the following wetland types are included within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction: upland or tidal flat, salt/brackish marsh, managed pineland, estuarine scrub, shrub, and open water. h. Closed Shellfishing Areas Adjacent to Beaufort, the majority of the waters that have been closed to shellfishing are located in Davis Bay, Turner Creek, Gallants Channel, and the waters surrounding Piver's Island. The general location of these areas have been provided on Map 1. 1-45 0 Areas of Resource Potential a. Agricultural and Forest Lands Within Carteret County, there are extensive areas of prime agricultural lands. The best soils for agricultural production are the Deloss-Tomotley-Arapahoe soils association. Beaufort's extraterritorial area includes large areas of Arapahoe soils. Most of those areas are in active agricultural production. The majority of the area within or adjacent to the town's corporate limits are either in the Altavista -Augusta -State or Leon-Murville-Mandarin associations. These soils are not considered prime agricultural soils. It is anticipated that much of the prime agricultural land located within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction will continue to be converted to urban uses during the planning period. b. Public Parks Carteret County's Freedom Park is located within Beaufort's extraterritorial jurisdiction. This facility contains a complex of baseball/softball fields which attract people from throughout the county. While the Beaufort waterfront is not technically a park, it is an area that offers visual access to the sound and is the location of many activities which are recreationally related. The waterfront area does have some regional recognition and significance. The NC Wildlife Commission leases land from the town at the foot of Front Street for a boat ramp. Grayden Paul Park, located at the foot of Pollock Street, is maintained by the town as a water access park. The facility includes a dinghy dock, a temporary (2-hour limit) boat dock, a swimming dock, and a small gazebo. The Jaycee Park, a small town -owned park facility, is also located on Front Street opposite the boat ramp. A regional CAMA shoreline access site is located on Taylor's Creek. The facilities include: restrooms, 12 parking spaces, boardwalk, pier, and a barbecue grill. IC. Marine Resources There are no major concentrations of subaquatic vegetation within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. However, the Rachel Carson Estuarine Sanctuary contains productive estuarine waters. In addition, important coastal wetland areas exist along the North River. These areas should be protected as an important part of Carteret County's marine environment. ' Commercial fishing and other marine activities have long been important to Beaufort's economy and history. Beaufort desires to protect the integrity and quality of Carteret County's marine environment. I - The North Carolina Division of Environmental Management assigns water quality classifications to all waters of the State of North Carolina. The schedule of classifications is provided by 15 NCAC 2B.0302 to .0317 (see Appendix 4). The classifications are based upon the existing or contemplated best usage of the various streams and segments of streams within a basin, as determined through studies, evaluations, and comments received at public hearings. The state classifies tidal salt waters as follows: Class SA: Class SB: shellfishing for market purposes and any other usage specified by the "SB" and "SC" classification; primary recreation and any other usage specified by the "SC" classification; 1-46 Class SC: fish and wildlife propagation, secondary recreation, and other ' uses requiring waters of lower quality. Most of the water within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction is classified SA. However, the ' waters within Taylor's Creek and Town Creek are classified SC. In addition, Turner Creek is designated as a primary nursery area. Primary nursery areas are growing areas where ' populations of juvenile finfish and shellfish of economic importance occur. In addition, surface waters (streams, lakes, or estuaries) are rated as either fully supporting (S), support -threatened (ST), partially supporting (PS), or nonsupporting (NS) by the Division , of Water Quality Section. The terms refer to whether the classified uses of the water (such as water supply, aquatic life protection and swimming) are being fully supported, partially supported, or are not supported. For instance, saltwaters classified for commercial shellfish ' harvesting (SA) would be rated as fully supporting if bacterial levels in the water were low enough to allow harvesting. However, if fecal coliform bacteria levels were too high to allow shellfish to be harvested, but not too high to prevent swimming, then the waters would be I rated as partially supporting since they only supportthe swimming. If the waters were impacted to the point that even swimming was disallowed, the waters would be rated as nonsupporting. Partially supporting (PS) and support -threatened (ST) waters have been ' identified within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. The general location of these areas has been provided on Map 1. Also of significance to Beaufort's marine history and resources is the North Carolina Maritime ' Museum. The museum was originally opened in 1930 in Morehead City under the management of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the N.C. Department of Conservation and Development. In 1951, management of the museum changed to the State Museum of ' Natural History under the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. In the 1970s, the museum was moved to Beaufort. In 1975, the museum hired a full-time curator and was opened to the public year round. The museum is filled with exhibits documenting both ' maritime and natural history of the North Carolina coast. The museum is currently in the process of acquiring additional land on West Beaufort Road for future expansion. The town has indicated support for museum expansion. F. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: PUBLIC FACILITIES I 1. Water Supplv Beaufort operates its own water system. Service is available to the entire town and can be extended into the extraterritorial areas as areas are annexed. The system underwent upgrading in 1985-1986 with the assistance of federal funding and a one -million dollar general ' obligation bond referendum. As required by N.C.G.S. 143-355(1) and (M), the Town of Beaufort adopted a water supply plan on March 8, 1995. The following information is provided by the town's water supply plan: "The original water system was constructed in 1917. Although the town originally owned the system, it was sold to Carolina Water Co., and then ' purchased back by Beaufort in 1975. In 1976, a number of improvements were made to the system, which included a 200,000 gallon elevated tank and a new well, #2. In 1988, another new well #3, another 200,000 elevated tank, and ' 1-47 1 F F 11 a 300,000 gallon ground storage tank with computerized controller were added to the system. Ion Exchange Softening was also added. The system has served the town well with sufficient growth potential for the immediate future. The Town of Beaufort has, for the past four years, operated the North River Water System, and the Merrimon Water System, both constructed and owned by the County of Carteret. Both are new small community systems placed in operation in June of 1990. The North River System is only 3.8 miles along Highway 70 from the Beaufort City Limits. The Town of Beaufort is researching the possibility of connecting the two systems creating one system with a larger capacity. The average annual daily water withdrawn from the town's three wells is .486 MGD. This does not differ significantly from the .49 MGD reported_ in the 1989 Water System Report, supporting the fact that unless annexation takes place, no significant increase in water use will occur. The maximum daily water use of .834 MGD reported in the 1992 system report was a one day occurrence and has not been repeated to date. The average monthly water use ranges from a high of .601 MGD in July to a low of .427 MGD in January. Major non-residential users include the WWTP at 16,000 GPD and the Water Treatment Operations at 13,000 GPD as #1 and #2 high users, respectively. A cleaner uses 9,000 as #3 on the list with the #10, a food store, at 2,000 GPD. Water Source for the town is ground water from the Castle Hayne Aquifer. Water is drawn from the aquifer by three deep wells. The wells are capable of pumping 500, 500, and 800 GPM, respectively. No significant increase in drawdown of the static or pumping levels has been noted although Beaufort falls within the "Capacity Use Area" of Eastern North Carolina. Others who draw from the Castle Hayne Aquifer are too numerous to list. The Town of Beaufort has not experienced any water shortages in the last 10 years." 2. Sewer The Town of Beaufort has accomplished major renovations to its sewer system within the last five years. In 1985, the system was hydraulically overloaded due to stormwater infiltration. The average flows ranged from 700,000 GPD to 1.5 million GPD. Beaufort undertook an engineering study to identify the sources of infiltration and developed a plan for the re-routing of some stormwater and the replacement of some old or broken city sewer lines. In addition, the town undertook an expansion of the treatment plant. The expansion was completed at a cost of 2.5 million dollars in November of 1988. The Environmental Protection Agency funded 55% of the cost with the remaining funds provided ' by the state and town. 1-48 As a result of the overall improvements, 100,000 GPD of infiltration was eliminated. The current flow averages 1 million GPD and ranges from 850 GPD to 1.1 MGD. The treatment plant is a Class III treatment facility and provides secondary treatment. It has a NPDES limit of 1.5 MGD. The treated wastewater is discharged into Taylor's Creek which contains tidal SC classified waters. The town operates a certified laboratory which is staffed with one full- time laboratory technician. Map 8 provides the plant location. As of May 1995, only one NPDES permit had been issued in Beaufort in addition to that issued for the town's sewage treatment plant. A permit for three million gallons per day had been issued for Beaufort Fisheries, Inc., on Front Street Extension. The town's system accepts sewer from East Carteret High School. However, additional provision of sewer service in the vicinity of the high school is not anticipated unless annexation(s) occur. In July, 1994, the Carteret County Interlocal Agency (CCIA) was formed to address the need for regional sewage collection in the county. All nine incorporated municipalities within the county, including Beaufort, are voting members of the agency. The task assigned to this agency was that of determining if land application methods for wastewater treatment and disposal were viable alternatives for the municipalities in Carteret County. Funding was obtained from state, county, and local sources; the scope of work was defined; feasibility study bids were let; and Camp, Dresser & McKee was chosen to perform the study. As a result of the CCIA's efforts, major state funding was also granted for a long-term regional wastewater study for Carteret, Craven, Onslow, and Pamlico counties which would be undertaken during the same approximate time frame as the CCIA study. The Interlocal Agency study has now been completed and the results and findings of the study generally conclude that land application treatment and disposal methods alone cannot feasibly meet the wastewater disposal needs of all of Carteret County's municipalities. Under current state and federal guidelines, there is simply not enough suitable land area available in Carteret County to handle the projected wastewater volume. However, the study does conclude that land application in conjunction with existing treatment and disposal facilities could be a feasible alternative provided state permitting allows for such a system. At the present time, the CCIA is overseeing Phase II of the study funded in part through a Division of Coastal Management regional planning grant. This study is intended to examine the possibilities of increasing the permitted discharge at each of the three existing wastewater treatment plants. In addition, this study will focus on funding scenarios for the construction of a county -wide sewer system. Due to complications caused by Hurricane Fran, this study has gone over schedule and is not expected to be completed until after August, 1997. The findings of the Four County Regional Task Force Study were unveiled in August, 1996. In this study, six separate scenarios were examined for the treatment and disposal of wastewater for the four -county area. These scenarios are as follows: 1 J 7 I 1 -- Status quo. This plan calls for improving existing treatment plants and continuing to rely on septic tanks in unincorporated areas. ' -- Consolidation of existing facilities with continued surface water discharge (streams). Similar to the first option, this also would call for the upgrade of existing facilities to handle independent package systems. I-49 LEGEND 1 BEAUFORT MOREHEAD CITY AIRPORT 2 RESCUE SQUAD . 3 BEAUFORT MIDDLE SCHOOL 4 NEW WELL NO. 3 & TREATMENT FACILITY 5 SCHOOL BUS GARAGE 6 BEAUFORT ELEMENTARY 7 BEAUFORT HOUSING AUTHORITY 8 TOWN GARAGE 9 POWER SUBSTATION 10 BEAUFORT SANITATION & WATER DEPT. & WELL NO. 2 11 CARTERET COUNTY COURT FACILITIES 12 CARTERET COUNTY ADMINISTRATION 13 COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT 14 FIRE STATION 15 BOARD OF EDUCATION 16 BEAUFORT LIBRARY 17 DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES y►-F"%VI VI \ 1 9 1 V.—. COMMUNITY FACILITIES SCALE 0 400 1200 18 POLICE DEPT. & OLD R.R. STATION/ TOWN HALL 19 CHURCH PARKING LOT (Public Use) 20 BEAUFORT RESTORATION CENTER 21 PUBLIC PARKING 22 HAMPTON MARINERS MUSEUM 23 WATERFRONT PARK 24 POST OFFICE 25 GRAYDEN PAUL PARK 26 WELL NO. 1 & WATER TREATMENT 27 PUBLIC BOAT RAMP 28 TENNIS COURTS 29 SHOPPING CENTER 30 FREEDOM PARK BALL FIELDS 31 WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY 32 PUBLIC BOAT RAMP 33 RANDOLPHJOHNSON PARK I IT/ 1 IIAIT M^1141P AnW The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. -50:'. d -- Ocean outfall discharge. This plan has two alternatives, both with multiple treatment plants. Alternative one calls for one ocean outfall (a pipe which carries treated wastewater miles into the ocean). Under the proposal, the pipe would be somewhere in the Swansboro area. Alternative two calls for two points of ocean entry, one near Swansboro and one north of Cape Lookout. -- Maximum water reuse. The key concepts under this proposal are golf course irrigation, wetlands restoration and forest land application. Secondary reuse potential includes agricultural irrigation, landscape irrigation, and industrial reuse. Under this proposal, in the extreme long-term, the water may be reclaimed for a drinking source or used for deep well injection to provide a saltwater barrier in the aquifer. -- Maximum use of natural systems. This proposal calls for a surface discharge system that relies primarily on land application or constructed wetlands as means of effluent polishing (the purifying of treated wastewater). -- Three service areas. This calls .for breaking the four -county area into three groups: Onslow County and Carteret coastal communities, Craven County and the remainder of Carteret County, and Pamlico County. Discharge limits of wastewater would be restricted to current permitted flow with an emphasis on improving water reuse. Septic tanks would continue to be used extensively in unincorporated areas. At the time the Four County study is completed, both the Interlocal Agency and the Regional Task Force will meet with state officials to review the findings of both studies and what options and alternatives may be permitted for both short-term and long-term strategies for the treatment and disposal of area wastewater. 3. Solid Waste Disposal Beaufort operates a town -wide refuse collection system. Twice per week pick-up service is provided to 1,735 single-family homes, 425 apartments, and 138 businesses. Other pick-up services include eight trash can racks on Front Street, 16 street containers, and four 55-gallon drums located in parks. The collection route is about 14 miles long. The town no longer provides collection services for businesses with dumpsters. A commercial dumpster service is provided by Waste Industries, Inc. Collection is accomplished by a three-man crew using one 30-yard rear loading packer. The collection averages one load per day. At times -during the peak tourist season, a second truck is, needed. Since 1992, the Town of Beaufort has reduced its total volume of waste by over 25 % through its recycling program. Recycling bins are located at the town's garage on Hedrick Street for glass, plastics, corrugated cardboard, and newspapers. The town operates its own cardboard bailer and periodically sells its supply to the organization with the highest bid. The town has made arrangements with Waste Industries to collect recyclables as needed. The town has also initiated an asphalt recycling program which reuses asphalt in the construction of road beds. The Town of Beaufort has become a leader in Carteret County in recycling. I-51 Until 1993, Beaufort's solid waste was disposed of in the Carteret County landfill. In 1993, the Carteret County landfill, located on Hibbs Road in the Newport Township, shut down operations and stopped the acceptance of waste material. By 1994, the county had met all of the necessary requirements and the closure was made official. The day after the Hibbs Road landfill stopped accepting waste, the new Tri-County landfill was opened. The Tri- County landfill is operated by the Coastal _Regional Solid Waste Management Authority (CRSWMA). The management authority is a board of directors appointed by Carteret, Craven, and Pamlico counties' Boards of Commissioners. There are seven board members. Pamlico and Carteret counties each have two board members, and Craven County is represented by three. The fundamental idea behind this regional approach is that one large landfill is less expensive to construct and operate than three individual landfills. The landfill is located in Craven County near Tuscarora. The present site will be expanded by approximately 400 acres and modified to meet new federal and state regulations regarding environmental safeguards. Both the Town of Beaufort and Waste Industries, Inc., dispose of waste in the Tri-County landfill. 4. Schools The Town of Beaufort is served by the Carteret County school system. Two facilities, the Beaufort Elementary School and the Beaufort Middle School, are located within the Town of Beaufort. The town's high school -aged students attend East Carteret High School, which is located north of Beaufort adjacent to U.S. 70. The following provides a summary of school enrollment: 1989 1995 Change Beaufort Elementary School 679 530 -149 Beaufort Middle School 353 374 + 21 East Carteret High School 749 782 +33 The following excerpt from the draft 1997 Carteret County Land Use Plan describes the status of the county's school system: "Carteret County's continued devotion toward improving education is evidenced by the recent passage of a $29 million bond referendum in November, 1994. The bond provides $6.2 million for educational technology. This includes the purchase of instructional computer equipment and software, and the networking of the county's fourteen schools. The majority of that equipment has been purchased and received by the schools, and the networking project will be completed in the fall of 1996. The remaining bond money will fund construction and renovation projects. A new high school and a new elementary school will be constructed in the western part of the county. An option has ben exercised on 90 acres off Highway 24 and final state approval for purchase should be received in the spring of 1996. Plans call for both schools to be built on the same site with natural buffers separating them. 1-52 1 Other bond projects include the construction of a new cafeteria and renovations to the main building at Beaufort Elementary School, the construction of a new classroom building with media center and office area at Smyrna Elementary School, and renovations to the kitchen at White Oak Elementary School. Community expectations for the Carteret County School System are high. The overwhelming support for the bond referendum and the arrival of a new superintendent have set a challenging course for this system. Carteret County schools strive for excellence in education and continue to innovatively address student needs. A five-year strategic plan provides direction for the school system beyond the year 2000. Called a blueprint for action, that plan will soon be revised and long-range plans will be extended through 2010. The plan was developed by a team of parents, business leaders, teachers, retirees, school administrators, support and classified school staff, and board of education members. Cape Lookout High School is the system's newest school. It opened in January, 1995, and is an alternative school offering small class sizes and individualized instruction. It is attended by students who are having difficulty in the traditional school setting. The county's voluntary year-round school pilot program was extended another two years based on its success. Students at Newport Elementary School attend four nine -week quarters. During the three-week breaks, enrichment and remediation programs are offered. The year-round program is run along with a traditional calendar program at Newport Elementary. Geographically, growth is occurring in the western end of the county. Student populations continue to decrease on the eastern side of the county. West Carteret High, Morehead Middle, Broad Creek Middle, and Newport Elementary are severely overcrowded. West Carteret High did get some relief when a new two-story, 21-classroom addition opened in August, 1995." 1 5. Transportation In April, 1990, the North Carolina Department of Transportation prepared a preliminary thoroughfare plan for Carteret County. The preliminary plan included significant proposals which would have a major impact on Beaufort and its extraterritorial jurisdiction. These proposals include the following: 1 -- A connector between NC 101 and U.S. 70 (the corridor for this road has not yet been determined). -- Reroute U.S. 70 from Cedar Street to Turner/West Beaufort Road. -- Utilize Orange and Turner Streets as a one-way pair providing access to the waterfront. -- Elimination of the "Y" intersection with NC 101 and U.S. 70. '1 1-53 -- Replacement of the drawbridge between Morehead City and Beaufort with a medium height bridge. A medium height bridge is considered to be between 40-45 feet. In FY98, a planning study will be conducted by the DOT Planning and Environmental Branch to determine the exact recommended bridge height. -- A possible minor thoroughfare is proposed to connect Steep Point Road just east of U.S. 70 and Mulberry Street at its intersection with Ocean Street. The draft thoroughfare plan was never approved by the Town of Beaufort because the plan proposed. replacing the bridge in its present location. This would have required widening Cedar Street to seven traffic lanes. A number of discussions took place with the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Following a series of public hearings, the proposed bridge relocation route was revised to that which is indicated on Map 9. The bridge replacement is now centered in the 1995-2001 North Carolina Department of Transportation, Transportation Improvement Program as project number R-3307. Out of the transportation improvement projects listed, the most significant improvements will be the replacement of the Beaufort Channel Bridge and the construction of a U.S. 70 NC 101 connector north of Beaufort. Both.would serve to reduce rapidly increasing traffic congestion along Cedar Street and U.S. 70. The Cedar Street/U.S. 70 corridor is expected to continue its trend of commercial development. Improved traffic flow is a very important planning issue. 6. Police Beaufort maintains a fully -staffed police department which serves all areas within the town. The staff consists of 16 officers, including the police chief. Three are on duty at all times. The full-time staff is supported by eight auxiliary officers. Five patrol cars are maintained. 7. Fire The town operates a full-time fire department. The department has a staff of seven full-time engineers, and a fire chief. This staff is supported by 38 volunteers. Equipment includes two 1,000 GPM pumpers and one 1,250 GPM pumper. Carteret County contracts with Beaufort to provide service to an area north of Beaufort. The area extends to the North River Bridge on U.S. 70, to Back Creek on Merrimon Road, to Core Creek Bridge on NC 101, and also includes Radio Island. The farthest distance is approximately nine miles from the station. 8. Emergency Services The Beaufort rescue squad provides ambulance services. Six of the members are paid, and the rest of the staff is composed of 14 volunteers. The town sells gas at cost to the Rescue Squad and provides vehicle maintenance assistance. 1 F 1-54 GALLANTS CHANNEL BRIDGE MAP 9 PROPOSED LOCATION q.R{0RrRO . 001, ��1••r''T E_Apl`-T . LEGEND • ---CORPORATE LIMITS LINE PROPOSED LOCATION The preparation of this map was financed in part through a` grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration • lam.. ; . i ♦ •` l O� '•r • v • P OQl• [L • �.er+• RD. 1FORT RD. syoRr o • NE ST. O� O • j G EORGE •..... �... �• 1 9. Recreation Recreational facilities operated by Beaufort include: Waterfront Park; Grayden Paul Park; the Taylor's Creek Town Dock; a park at the end of Front Street, which includes tennis courts and a boat launch; and several neighborhood parks. Subsequent to the last Land Use Plan Update, North Carolina Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Grant funds have been utilized to improve Taylor's Creek town dock area. In 1995, the town rezoned approximately one acre of land on Pine Street, immediately west of Carteret Avenue, for use as a general recreation park. This park will provide recreation equipment and be dedicated as the Randolph Johnson Park. Other recreational facilities located within the town's planning jurisdiction include Freedom Park and Beaufort Elementary School recreational area. Open space areas include several historic cemeteries and the scenic drive along Front Street which provides a waterfront view of Taylor's Creek and Carrot Island. The town employs a part-time recreation director. Map 8 provides the park locations. The North Carolina Division of Parks maintains recreation facilities standards. The following table provides a comparison of town support facilities and the state standards. Table 18 Town of Beaufort, NC Minimum Recreational Facility Needs (Based on Year -Round Population) NC Division of Parks and Recreation Beaufort Existing Facility Standard Facilities Need Facilities (Facilities/ (Based on 1987 Population) year-round population of 4,548) Football/Soccer Field 1 /10,000 < 1 1 at Freedom Park Softball Field 1 /3,000 < 1 2 at Freedom Park Baseball Field 1 /6,000 < 1 1 at Freedom Park Swimming Pool-25 yard 1 /10,000 < 1 None Swimming Pool-50 meter 1 /20,000 < 1 None Tennis Courts 2/4,000 2 Front Street Tot Lots/Playgrounds 1/1,000 6 See Text Community Center Gym 1 /25,000 1 Beaufort Central Gym Neighborhood Center 1 /10,000 < 1 None < = less than. Source: North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation. Based on the comparison provided in Table 18, the Town of Beaufort meets or exceeds the state recreation standards except for swimming pools and neighborhood centers. Because of the outdoor water activities which exist in Carteret County, it should not be necessary for Beaufort to provide swimming pools. 1-56 10. Administration The Town of Beaufort maintains a staff for management of a wide range of urban services. The administrative and service staff includes the following positions: Administration 4 Inspections 2 Water and Sewer Department 15 Street Sanitation 13 The town maintains a Manager -Council form of government with a Town Manager employed to supervise all departments. 1-57 SECTION II: PROJECTED LAND DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS A. PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT 1. Demographic Trends Table 19 provides the estimated population for the Town of Beaufort and other Carteret County municipalities and townships through 2005. Beaufort's population will comprise a slightly smaller percentage of the county's total population by 2005. In 1990, Beaufort contained approximately 7.2% of the county population. This percentage is expected to decrease slightly to 6.6% by 2005. However, Beaufort will continue to be the second largest town within Carteret County, ranking behind Morehead City. Most of the land area within the town has been developed. The town's population cannot grow appreciably without annexation. The extension of town utilities into the extraterritorial jurisdiction area will both encourage and support annexation actions. Based on an average household size of 2.4, approximately 930 people resided within the town's extraterritorial area in 1995. This should increase to over 1,500 by 2005. Approximately one-third to one-half of this population is located in areas which could easily be annexed. Thus, annexation could result in an additional 15 to 20% growth of the 1995 population by 2005. . 11 1 U-1 Table 19 Town of Beaufort and Carteret County, NC Summary of Year -Round Population Growth by Township and Municipality, 1990 - 2005 Township Municipality or Area Year Round Population Percentage Change Overall 1990 1994 2000 2005 '94-'00 '00-'05 '94-'05 1) Atlantic Total Township 805 803 799 796 -0.49% -0.35% -0.84% 2) Beaufort Beaufort 3,808 3,997 4,351 4,600 8.85% 5.72% 15.08% Unincorporated Areas 4,205 4,644 5,467 6,045 17.71 % 10.58% 30.16% Total Township 8,013 8,641 9,818 10,645 13.61 % 8.43% 23.19% 3) Cedar Island Total Township 385 407 448 477 10.1 1 % 6.46% 17.23% 4) Davis Total Township 535 553 587 611 6.15% 4.08% 10.48% 5) Harkers Island Total Township 2,237 2,375 2,634 2,816 10.90% 6.91 % 18.56% 6) Harlowe Total Township 11190 1,289 1,474 1,604 14.37 % 8.84% 24.48% 7) Marshallberg Total Township 646 674 726 763 7.75% 5.06% 13.20% 8) Merrimon Total Township 542 591 683 747 15.54% 9.46% 26.46% 9) Morehead City Atlantic Beach 1,938 2,267 2,846 3,252 25.52% 14.30% 43.47% Indian Beach 153 177 222 254 25.39% 14.24% 43.24% Morehead City 6,046 6,384 7,017 7,462 9.91 % 6.34% 16.88% Pine Knoll Shores 1,360 1,543 1,886 2,127 .22.21% 12.78% 37.82% Unincorporated Areas 10,985 11,485 12,420 13,078 8.15% 5.30% 13.88% Total Township 20,482 21,856 24,390 26,173 11.60% 7.31% 19.75% 101 Newport Newport 2,516 2,778 3,269 3,614 17.66% 10.55% 30.08% Unincorporated Areas 4,817 5,337 6,312 6,997 18.26% 10.86% 31.09% Total Township 7,333 8,115 9,580 10,611 18.05% 10.75% 30.75% 11) Sea Level Total Township 773 872 1,056 1,186 21.16% 12.28% 36.05% 12) Smyrna Total Township 782 843 958 1,039 13.61 % 8.42% 23.18% 13) Stacy Total Township 401 434 497 541 14.40% 8.85% 24.52% 14) Straits Total Township 1,948 2,129 2,468 2,706 15.91 % 9.65% 27.10% 15) White Oak Cape Carteret 1,008 1,179 1,499 1,724 27.16% 15.02% 46.25% Emerald Isle 2,434 2,798 3,480 3,959 24.36% 13.77% 41.49% Cedar Point 628 688 800 879 16.33% 9.87% 27.81 % Unincorporated Areas 2,413 2,379 2,316 2,271 -2.66% -1.92% -4.53% Total Township 6,483 7,044 8,095 8,834 14.92% 9.13% 25.41 % Total Municipalities 19,891 21,811 25,369 27,870 16.31 % 9.86% 27.78% Total Unincorporated Areas 32,662 34,813 38,840 41,673 11.57% 7.29% 19.70% Total County 52,553 56,624 64,209 69,543 13.40% 8.31 % 22.82% Sources: N.C. State Data Center; extrapolation of data for unincorporated areas by Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. II-2 Based on Table 19, the average annual population growth rate for.the county, municipalities, and unincorporated areas should continue to decrease during the planning period. This trend is outlined in Table 20, below: Table 20 Carteret County, NC Average Annual Year -Round Population Growth Rate and Percent Change, 1993-2003 Area Average Annual Year -Round Percent Change in Population Growth Rate Growth Rate 1993-1998 1998-2003 '93-'98 to '98203 Municipalities 2.65% 1.92%-38.02% Unincorporated Areas 1.95% 1.46%-33.56% Total County 2.22% 1.64%-35.37% Source: Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. Despite the expected decrease in annual growth rate, the population growth rate in Carteret County will still be considerably higher than the North Carolina rate over the next ten years. From 1995-2005, the state population is estimated to show a 13.0% increase. The Carteret County population is anticipated to grow 17.9% over the same period. From 1993-2003, the county's municipalities should grow approximately 6.4% fasterthan its unincorporated areas. The beach communities will continue to display high growth rates as their recreational potential continues to attract retirees, younger professionals and entrepreneurs. However, it is conceivable that growth in some of the beach communities may not keep up with the projections in Table 20 due to building density restrictions or municipal inability to provide services -- in particular, wastewater disposal. Morehead City is also 1 anticipated to experience appreciable population growth over the planning period as it develops as a commercial center for the nearby waterfront recreational communities. 2. Commercial and Industrial Land Use During the period 1990 to 1995, commercial and industrial development primarily occurred in the extraterritorial jurisdiction. Growth within the incorporated area was limited because of a lack of vacant land and availability of areas zoned for commercial and industrial development. This pattern of development is expected to continue during the planning period, 1995 to 2000. Any major commercial development within the corporate limits will have to occur through the redevelopment of areas presently developed. * Within the extraterritorial area, development is expected to focus on the U.S. 70 corridor and around the Michael J. Smith Airport. During the past two years, the U.S. 70 corridor has experienced a number of rezoning actions to reclassify parcels from residential to commercial categories. Pressure may be expected to continue through the planning period for commercial rezonings. Caution should be taken to control strip commercialization and the traffic and service problems associated with such development. -3 The majority of the industrially zoned property within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction is the Warehouse -Industrial zoned property located at and adjacent to the airport. Other warehouse industrial areas are located off Mulberry Street east of the town limits. Off -shore drilling could have a major impact on development within Beaufort. If drilling does occur, it is not known in what location oil or gas would be brought ashore. If oil or gas is brought ashore outside of Carteret County, the on -shore development of facilities to support drilling operations could be minimal. The town should carefully monitor drilling plans and be prepared with regard to on -shore impacts when specific development plans are known. 3. Housing Trends Since 1990, there has been no significant residential subdivision development within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. In 1995, approximately 75 vacant residential subdivision lots existed. Residential building permits were issued at an average rate of 17 per year from 1991 to 1994. At this rate of construction, it would only require 4.5 years to build -out the vacant lots. Thus, there is a limited inventory of subdivided residential lots. Further residential subdivision development may be expected during the planning period in the ETJ. Approximately 1,438 acres of agricultural, forested, and vacant land exists within the Beaufort extraterritorial planning jurisdiction. Most of that land is zoned for R-20 residential development. At an average density of two dwelling units per acre, a total of over 2,875 dwelling units could be constructed. At the current growth rate, full development of residentially zoned property within the extraterritorial area would require over 150 years, if all residential development occurs in the ETJ. Within the town's corporate limits, preservation of historically significant residential areas will continue to be emphasized. Only moderate residential development will occur within the existing corporate limits because of limited vacant land. The vacant residentially zoned land within the town is primarily zoned R-15 with some R-10 and R-8 zoning (R-15/15,000 sq. ft. lots, R-10/10,000 sq. ft. lots, R-8/8,000 sq. ft. lots) Based on an average density of three dwelling units per acre and approximately 75 acres of vacant residentially zoned property, approximately 225 additional single-family dwellings may be constructed within the town limits. At current growth rates, total build -out of all vacant single-family zoned property would require approximately 25 years. 4. Public Land Use No major changes to public land use are expected during the planning period with the exception of the Randolph Johnson Park. Efforts to preserve, protect, and promote the town's waterfront areas will continue. This will require commitment to the annual care and maintenance of public areas including parking, parks, sidewalks, and other facilities. 5. Project Public Facilities Needs/Availability The Town of Beaufort water supply plan is based on a total service area population of 4,300 by 2020. This plan forecasts a Beaufort population of 4,600 by 2005. If the forecast proves 11-4 correct, the peak day usage should be just below the town's 12-hour combined water yield by 2005. The water supply plan usage forecast is depicted on Graph 1. If the town needs to provide additional water services, the following two economically feasible options are available. 1 The Town of Beaufort could extend lines some 3.8 miles and connect with the North River Water System. This system was developed for a much greater demand than is presently being used by the system. The system is owned by Carteret County and presently operated by the Town of Beaufort. 2) The Town of Beaufort could construct an additional well close to treatment site, #3. This site was designed and constructed to accommodate flows from an additional well. The Castle Hayne Aquifer in this area yields from 500 to 800 GPM. Using 500 GPM would raise the safe yield to 1.66 MGD. A comparison of water usage to wastewater discharge information reveals significant amounts of inflow and infiltration. Although inflow and infiltration have already been significantly reduced, the town should continue to reduce this problem. Wastewater capacity will greatly depend on the town's ability to locate and reduce these sources. Two factors will greatly influence continued discharge into Taylor's Creek. First, the Basin Wide Management Plan being implemented by DEM provides total basin loading which will dictate effluent limits. Second, is the movement by the Carteret County municipalities to seriously address land application of treated effluent. The Town of Beaufort has been and will continue to be an active participant towards a regional approach, considering all alternatives to provide a more environmentally sound and economically feasible method of wastewater disposal. 6. Airport Development The Michael J. Smith Airport Master Plan proposed significant improvement of the airport. P P P 9 P Ultimately, runway 8-26 will be lengthened to 5,500 linear feet. This will require relocation of a portion of NC 101. Lengthening the runway will significantly improve the airport's ability to accommodate business/corporate jet aircraft. The runway lengthening is not expected to occur until after the planning period. However, planning for the extension will begin during the planning period. The following summarizes the airport development projects which are expected during the planning period: FY1996 Install visual approach aids on runways 8-26 and Cost/$187,000 3-21, construct hangar area access taxiway. FY1998 Conduct environmental assessment for extension Cost/$147,000 of runway 8-26 to 5,500 feet. FY1999 Relocate and expand airfield electrical vault Cost/$57,600 1.4 1.2 >% 1 Q GRAPH 1 Town of Beaufort -- Water Supply and Demand, 1992-2020 12 Hr. Combined Yield c Day Day Year 2020 Source: NC Division of Coastal Management; Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. M M M � vim, " M M On- go am Im am W M W M go *111111 M 1 7. Areas Likely to Experience Maior Land Use Changes No major changes in the existing patterns of land use are expected to occur throughout the planning period. The town's planning and zoning program should continue to protect existing land uses and to minimize the development of conflicting land uses. Close attention should be paid to commercial development along the Cedar Street-U.S. 70 corridor. This commercial development should be coordinated with traffic planning to reduce congestion. Also, care must be taken to avoid conflicts with adjacent residential development. Ultimately, relocation of the Beaufort Channel bridge and the associated re-routing of U.S. 70 will alleviate much of this problem. However, this relocation is not expected during the planning period. As stated earlier, residential development should continue as the primary development within the extraterritorial area. A long-range concern will continue to be the issue of sea level rise. During the next 30-year period, approximately 20 to 30 percent of the land area within the town's jurisdiction could r be inundated by rising sea water. The main area of Beaufort located south of Town Creek and Turner Creek would become an island, being isolated from the mainland. Also, the existing waterfront areas along Taylor's Creek would be lost. The town should begin planning for possible sea level rise. Local ordinances should be reviewed for determination of changes which may need to be made to protect developments from rising sea level and to accommodate the movement of structures to higher ground. Is B. REDEVELOPMENT ISSUES The Town of Beaufort has been extremely successful with its redevelopment efforts. Beaufort's waterfront area along Taylor's Creek serves as an example to other coastal North Carolina communities. The town has also successfully preserved its historic district. In 1970, Beaufort implemented a HUD -funded community development rehabilitation project. Over 20 dwelling units received assistance. Future redevelopment efforts should focus on the following: -- Continued protection of both the historic district and the waterfront area. I-- Redevelopment/visual improvement of the U.S. 70 - Cedar Street area. -- Removal of substandard dwelling units through enforcement of the town's minimum housing code. During FY1996, it was expected that the town's initial Community Development Block Grant housing rehabilitation project would be funded. This project will make a significant reduction in the town's substandard housing. However, additional housing improvement projects should be pursued during the planning period. C. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION This plan was reviewed by the Carteret County Planning Department prior to certification by the Coastal Resources Commission. This review was provided to help ensure consistency of this plan with Carteret County's planning efforts. Intergovernmental coordination and -7 r cooperation will continue through the ten-year planning period. This will be essential to accomplish effective planning for public utilities, thoroughfare projects, community facilities, housing needs, and environmental protection. The Beaufort Board of Commissioners and Board of Adjustment will be responsible for ensuring adequate coordination with Carteret County, Bogue Banks and mainland municipalities, and other government entities as may be required. The Town of Beaufort has participated in several joint planning efforts with neighboring jurisdictions, such as the joint land use planning meeting held in Beaufort on August 21, 1996, and the North Carolina Municipalities meeting held in Emerald Isle on November 18-19, 1996. In addition, Beaufort is also an active member of the Carteret County Interlocal Agency. HE SECTION III: LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM The CAMA regulations require the establishment of a specific land classification system to support the local government's policy statements. This system should reflect developing land use patterns within a community. The CAMA 15A NCAC 76 regulations state: "The land classification system provides a framework to be used by local governments to identify the future use of all lands. The designation of land classes allows the local government to illustrate their policy statements as to where and to what density they want growth to occur, and where they want to conserve natural and cultural resources by guiding growth." The 15A NCAC 7H requirements provide for the following land classifications: developed, urban transition, limited transition, community, rural, rural with services, and conservation. In applying these classifications, Beaufort should carefully consider where and when various types of development should be encouraged. Additionally, the areas of environmental concern requiring protection should be identified and mapped. Each applicable land classification must be represented on a land classification map. The following land classifications will apply in Beaufort's jurisdiction: DEVELOPED: Areas included in the developed land classification are currently urban in character, with no or minimal undeveloped land remaining. Municipal types of services are in place or are expected to be provided within the next five to ten years. Land uses include residential, commercial, industrial, and other urban land uses at high or moderate densities. With the exception of R-5 Cluster Development, residential densities are allowed in excess of an average of three dwelling units per acre, with a minimum plot size of one acre and a minimum single-family residential lot size of 5,000 square feet. Cluster developments shall not exceed eight units per acre, with a minimum lot size of one acre. URBAN TRANSITION: Areas included in the urban transition classification are presently being developed for urban purposes, or will be developed in the next five to ten years. These areas should eventually require complete urban services within the planning period. The urban transition areas include mixed land uses such as residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, and other uses approaching high to moderate densities. Residential densities are allowed in excess of an average of three dwelling units per acre, with a minimum single-family residential lot size of 10,000 square feet. LIMITED TRANSITION: Areas included in the limited transition classification are areas which will experience increasing development during the next five to ten years. Some municipal type services will be required. The limited transition classification is intended for predominantly residential use. However, some commercial, office, and institutional uses may be allowed. Residential densities at an average of three units per acre or less are acceptable. Densities within some areas of the limited transition classification may be higher. The minimum lot size shall I be 10,000 square feet. Clustering or development associated with planned unit developments are acceptable in this classification. ' III-1 RURAL WITH SERVICES: Areas included within the rural with services classification are developed at low density. Land uses include residential use where limited water services are provided in order to avert existing or projected health problems. Lot sizes will be large and the provision of services will not disrupt the primary rural character of the landscape. The provision of services should not be designed to serve as a catalyst for development. CONSERVATION: The following areas of environmental concern are included in the conservation classification: Coastal Wetlands: This classification includes all areas of coastal wetlands which include any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including wind tides. However, tidal flooding is understood not to include hurricane or tropical storm tides. Uses will be all within the coastal wetlands areas that are consistent with the 15A NCAC 7H use standards. In addition, the town supports possible expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport into coastal wetlands areas. All specific coastal wetlands locations must be determined through on -site investigation 2 and analysis. Estuarine Shorelines: All areas lying 0-75 feet landward of the mean high water level of estuarine waters not designated as Outstanding Resource Waters are classified as estuarine shorelines. Because of map size and scale, these areas cannot be accurately mapped. Precise locations must be determined in the field. Uses will be allowed within the estuarine shoreline areas that are consistent with the 15A NCAC 7H use standards. Estuarine and Public Trust Waters: All public trust areas and estuarine waters are included in this classification. All waters of Carteret County are classified as estuarine waters as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0206 or public trust areas as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0207. With the exception of floating structures, uses consistent with 15A NCAC 7H.0207 will be allowed. The town opposes the permanent location of floating structures in estuarine and public trust waters and in marinas. Except for floating structures policies, the Conservation policies are not more restrictive than the use , standards included in 15A NCAC 7H. The land classifications are delineated on Map 10. The land classification map indicates a continuation of existing development patterns. Some expansion of the developed classification has occurred since 1985 to the east of town along Taylor's Creek and north of the airport. In addition, the areas classified as rural occupy much less area than indicated in the 1985 Land Use Plan. LEGEND DEV DEVELOPED URBAN TRAN URBAN TRANSITION LIMITED TRAN LIMITED TRANSITION RURAL WITH SERVICES RURAL WITH SERVICES CON CONSERVATION CITY LIMIT BOUNDARYEXTRA-TERRITORIAL BOUNDARY BOUNDARY ��—• J MAP 10 0 0 0 o0 BEAUFORT, N.C. 0 "J " 000 � LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP Scale NOTES: L ALL AREAS LYING 0-75' LANDWARD OF THE MEAN HIGH WATER LEVEL OF ESTUARINE WATERS ARE ESTUARINE SHORELINE AREAS AND CLASSIFIED AS CONSERVATION LANDS. BECAUSE OF MAP SCALE, THESE AREAS CANNOT BE ACCURATELY MAPPED. PRECISE LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED IN THE FIELD. 2. ALL WATERS IN BEAUFORT'S PLANNING JURISDICTION ARE CLASSIFIED AS ESTUARINE WATERS AS DESCRIBED BY IS NCAC 7H.0206, OR PUBLIC TRUST AREAS AS DESCRIBED BY IS NCAC 7H.0207. ALL DEVELOPMENT SHALL BE CONSISTANT WITH THE USE STANDARDS CONTAINED IN 15 NCAC 7KO206 AND .0207. Z preparation of this map was financed In part gh o grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act rf 197Z as amended. which Is admirietered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. III-3 SECTION IV: INTRODUCTION TO POLICY STATEMENTS This plan identifies issues dealing with growth, development, and the environment. This section of the plan is intended to provide policies which will address growth management and protection of the environment. The policies should be based on the objectives of the citizens of Beaufort and satisfy the objectives of the Coastal Resources Commission. The policies should not restrict healthy, environmentally sound development essential to Beaufort's future well being. It should be emphasized that the policy statements are extremely important and have a day-to-day impact on businesses and individual citizens within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. The statements have an impact in three areas: -- CAMA minor and major permitting as required by N.C.G.S. 113A-118 prior to undertaking any development in any area of environmental concern. -- Establishment of local planning policy.. -- Review of proposed projects requiring state or federal assistance or approval to determine consistency with local policies. For the issuance of CAMA permits within areas of environmental concern, the state's minimum acceptable use standards are defined by 15A NCAC 7H. A local unit of government must adopt policies which are, at a minimum, equal to and consistent with the state's minimum use standards. Beaufort may adopt policies which are more stringent than the minimum use standards. For example, the state standards allow marinas to be located within primary nursery areas if some minimum conditions are met. Beaufort could adopt a policy stating that marinas will not be permitted within primary nursery areas (This is only an example, not a recommendation). If this were to occur, a CAMA permit for marina construction in a primary nursery area would not be issued. IT IS CRUCIAL THAT A LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNDERSTAND THE IMPACT OF ITS POLICIES WITHIN AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN. The second area of land use PP plan application is that of establishing policies to guide the P jurisdiction's local planning. This may apply both within areas of environmental concern where CAMA regulations apply and in non-CAMA regulated areas of the county. Under North Carolina legislation, land use plans are not regulatory controls. Non-CAMA related recommendations must be implemented with local land use ordinances such as zoning or subdivision ordinances. If this plan recommends that the average residential density should be three dwelling units per acre within a particular area, then that density must be achieved through local zoning ordinance or other regulatory control. (This should not be confused with the interaction of the land use plan with the CAMA regulations and 15A NCAC 7H use standards.) The final area of application is that of "Consistency Review." Proposals and applications for state and federal assistance or requests for agency approval of projects are normally reviewed against a jurisdiction's land use plan to determine if the project is consistent with local policies. Inconsistencies of a project with local policies could serve as grounds for denial or IV-1 revision of a project. For example, an individual or agency may request state or federal funding to construct a 30-unit low -to -moderate income housing project. If the proposed location of the project is within an area in which this land use plan states that the residential density should not exceed two dwelling units per acre, the project may be judged to be inconsistent with the local land use plan. The Coastal Resources Commission requires all governments to specify stated development policies under each one of five broad topics as specified by 15A NCAC 7B. These topics include: -- Resource Protection -- Resource Production and Management -- Economic and Community Development -- Continuing Public Participation -- Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans During 1995 and 1996, the NCAC 713 CAMA planning guidelines were revised. The revised guidelines included new requirements for the development of policy statements. These changes included the following policy statement additions: -- A general vision policy statement describing the type of community that the local government would like to become within the next ten years. -- A basic statement as to the community attitude toward resource protection. -- A policy addressing the protection of wetlands identified as being of the highest functional significance on maps supplied by the Division of Coastal Management. -- A policy addressing moorings and mooring fields. -- A policy addressing water quality problems and management measures designed to reduce or eliminate local sources of surface water quality problems. -- A statement as to the community attitude toward resource production and management. . -- A policy addressing commitment to state and federal programs, including housing rehabilitation, community development block grants, housing for low and moderate income level citizens, water and sewer installation, and rural water systems. -- A policy addressing assistance to interstate waterways. Based on the analysis of existing conditions and trends, suggestions from the town's citizens, and substantial input and guidance from the Town of Beaufort Board of Adjustment, the policies in the following sections have been formulated to provide a guide for regulating IV-2 development within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. Policies which were considered, but not adopted, are provided in Appendix I. A. VISION STATEMENT Beaufort valuesits rich maritime history and the picturesque landscape which this history provides. These historical assets and the shoreline setting are the cornerstones of an important tourist industry. As the town develops, these assets will be maintained and protected. At the same time, the town will pursue development within its extraterritorial jurisdiction which is consistent with the 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards for AEC's. It is the town's intention to protect its valuable maritime resources. Industrial development will be encouraged within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction outside of the AEC's. Finally, it is a priority of the town to carefully control growth and development which is expected to occur along the relocated U.S. 70 highway corridor which will be associated with the construction of a new bridge across the Beaufort channel. B. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS Community Attitude on Resource Protection Beaufort has demonstrated a concern with resource protection. - This concern has been displayed through the adoption of local ordinances and support for the 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards. Emphasis has been placed on restriction of floating structures and preservation of estuarine shoreline areas, the historic district, the town's central waterfront area, and Carrot Island. Physical Limitations Soils restrictions on develo ment posed b soil To mitigate septic tank problems and otherp p y limitations, Beaufort will: a Enforce through the development and zoning permit process, all current regulations 1 1 9 P 9P P 9 of the N.C. State Building Code and the N.C. Division of Health Services relating to building construction and septic tank installation/replacement in areas with soils restrictions. (b) Coordinate all development activity with appropriate Carteret County and state regulatory personnel, and in particular, with the Carteret County Sanitarian. (c) Cooperate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the regulation/enforcement of the 404 wetlands permit process. With the exception of soils policy (d), the Town of Beaufort will accept the permitting standards of the Corps of Engineers, and does not adopt any policies which exceed the federal standards. (d) Beaufort opposes the installation of package treatment plants and septic tanks or discharge of waste in any areas classified as coastal wetlands, freshwater wetlands IV-3 (404), or natural heritage areas. This policy applies only to areas shown as freshwater wetlands, coastal wetlands, and natural heritage areas on Map 10, Land Classification Map. Flood Hazard Areas (a) Beaufort will continue to coordinate all development within the special flood hazard area with the town's Inspections Department, North Carolina Division of Coastal Management, FEMA, and the U.S. Corps of Engineers. (b) Beaufort will continue to enforce its existingzoning and flood damage prevention 9 9 ordinances and follow the storm hazard mitigation plan contained herein. Groundwater/Protection of Potable Water Supplies Beaufort's policy is to conserve its surficial groundwater resources by supporting CAMA and N.C. Division of Water Quality stormwater run-off regulations, and by coordinating local development activities involving chemical storage or .underground storage tank installation/abandonment with Carteret County Emergency Management personnel and the Groundwater Section of the North Carolina Division of Water Quality. The Town of Beaufort Building Inspections Department will coordinate building inspections with state and federal regulations governing underground storage tanks and will endeavor to advise building permit applicants of those regulations. Manmade Hazards (a) Beaufort will support the technical requirements and state program approval for underground storage tanks (40 CFR, Parts 280 and 281), and any subsequent state regulations concerning underground storage tanks adopted during the planning period. (b) Beaufort encourages the establishment of appropriate environmental and operational safeguards for the expansion of fuel storage tank facilities on Radio Island. All expansions must be in compliance with applicable state, federal, and local regulations. Beaufort opposes the storage of any non -fuel hazardous materials on Radio Island. (c) Agricultural quarantine and decontamination facilities should not be established on Radio Island by the U.S. Navy or other agent of the federal government unless a full Environmental Impact Statement with a finding of no significant effect on the environment has been prepared and proper environmental safeguards are implemented. The Environmental Impact Statement should include mitigation measures for the loss of any public beach access. (d) Beaufort will support development of sound attenuation zoning requirements for the areas affected by the aircraft operating patterns at the Michael J. Smith Field. The zoning for Michael J. Smith Field should be coordinated with Carteret County and Morehead City. (e) The Town of Beaufort requests notification, including full and complete disclosure of all plans; for either public or private development of Radio Island. In addition, Beaufort IV-4 I requests that Carteret County notify the town in writing of all requests for special use permits on Radio Island. (f) With the exception of fuel storage tanks used for retail and wholesale sales, Beaufort opposes the bulk storage of fuel or other man-made hazardous materials within any areas not zoned for industrial usage. (9) The Town of Beaufort adopts the following policies concerning operation, development, and expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport: -- Any expansion plans for the airport must be consistent with the town's Zoning Ordinance and Land Use Plan. -- Beaufort does not object to increased air traffic which will not result in increased noise impact(s) on properties located within airport flight patterns. -- The Town of Beaufort supports any runway extensions or other airport expansions which will not cause any changes to N.C. 101 which will result in increased traffic in the vicinity of the Beaufort Middle School. The town's preference for the extension of Runway 8-26 is to have the runway extended to the northeast which would require the relocation of a portion of NC 101. -- Beaufort requests notification of, and the right to review and comment on, all plans being prepared or amended for the airport. -- Specifically, the following airport development projects are supported: FY1996 Install visual approach aids on runways 8-26 and 3-21, construct hangar area access taxiway. FY1998 Conduct environmental assessment for extension of runway 8-26 to 5,500 feet. FY1999 Relocate and expand airfield electrical vault. (h) Expansions of Aviation Military Restricted Areas or Military Operations Areas in eastern North Carolina must be consistent with civil aviation regulations, must comply with ' other applicable state and federal regulations, and must be supported by environmental impact statements addressing the cumulative impact of such airspace uses. (i) The town opposes any low level military training flights that are not in compliance with the minimum safe altitudes for aircraft operation as described in the Federal Aviation Regulations, Part 91. Stormwater Runoff (a) Beaufort recognizes the value of water quality maintenance to the protection of fragile areas and to the provision of clean water for recreational purposes. The town will support existing state regulations relating to stormwater runoff resulting from IV-5 1� I development (Stormwater Disposal Policy 15 NCAC 2H.001-.1003) through enforcement of the town's subdivision ordinance. (b) Beaufort supports control of agricultural runoff through implementation of U.S. Soil Conservation Service "Best Management Practices" program. (c) Beaufort will support the development of a comprehensive town -wide stormwater , drainage plan. (d) Beaufort will cooperate with the NCDOT, the North Carolina Division of Environmental Management, and other state agencies in mitigating the impact of stormwater runoff on all conservation classified areas. The town will support the Division of Environmental Management stormwater runoff retention permitting process through its zoning permit system. (e) The town will attempt to apply for grant funds, and utilize Powell Bill funds, to improve stormwater drainage systems associated with existing rights -of -way. (f) The town will develop a comprehensive master drainage plan. Cultural/Historic Resources (a) Beaufort shall coordinate all housing code enforcement/redevelopment projects which involve any historically significant structure with the N.C. Division of Archives and History, to ensure that any significant architectural details or buildings are identified and preserved. (b) Beaufort will coordinate all county public works projects with the N.C. Division of Archives and History, to ensure the identification and preservation of significant archaeological sites. (c) Beaufort will continue to support and protect the town's Historic District. Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas Only commercial and industrial uses that are water dependent and which cannot function elsewhere or are supportive of commercial fishing will be allowed in conservation classified ' areas. Examples of such uses would include but not necessarily be limited to commercial fishing and fish processing, marinas consistent with the policies of this plan, boat repair and construction facilities, any business dependent upon natural salt water as a resource, and restaurants that do not extend into or over estuarine waters and/or public trust waters. Where zoning exists, all uses must be consistent with established zoning. Miscellaneous Resource Protection Package Treatment Plant Use Beaufort will support the construction of package treatment plants which are approved and permitted by the State Division of Environmental Management. If any package plants are I IV-6 approved, Beaufort supports requirement of a specific contingency plan specifying how ongoing private operation and maintenance of the plant will be provided, and detailing provisions for assumption of the plant into a public system should the private operation fail or management of the system not meet the conditions of the state permit (see policy (d) soils). Marina and Floatinq Home Development Beaufort will enforce the following policies to govern floating homes and marina development. e 9P 9 9 P Marinas are considered to be any publicly or privately owned dock constructed to accommodate more than ten boats, as defined by 15 NCAC 71-1.208 (b) (5). (a) Beaufort will allow the construction of open water and upland marinas within its I planning jurisdiction which satisfy the use standards .for marinas as specified in 15A NCAC 7H. This shall include marinas proposed for location within Conservation areas. (b) Beaufort will allow construction of dry stack storage facilities for boats associated either with or independent of marinas. All applicable zoning and subdivision regulations must be satisfied. Construction of associated boat ramps, piers, and bulkheads within conservation areas will be allowed if 15A NCAC 7H use standards are met. (c) Beaufort supports the state's minimum use standards for the regulation of floating ' structures. (d) Beaufort will annually survey all local anchorages and register all boats on the town's tax rolls. (e) The Town of Beaufort will regulate the number of automobile parking spaces required to serve marinas as stated in the town's zoning ordinance. The following statement taken from the ordinance summarizes the town's marina parking space requirements: Use Classification Parkinq Space Requirements Marina and Accessory Uses: Dry Boat Storage 1 automobile space per 4 dry boat spaces Wet Boat Storage 1 automobile space per 4 wet boat storage spaces Accessory Uses 1 space for each 2 employees at maximum employment on a single shift, plus 2 spaces for each 300 square feet of repair or maintenance space Marine Services and Repairs 1 space per 4 dry boat storage spaces, 1 space per wet boat storage spaces, 1 space for each 2 employees at maximum employment, plus 2 spaces for each 300 square feet of repair or maintenance space Boat Launching Ramps 25 boat trailer spaces (minimum) at least 12 feet by 40 feet The Board of Adjustment may grant a variance to these requirements which will not result in a violation of this land use plan. IV-7 L� Mooring Fields Beaufort is concerned with the potential for the development of mooring fields. The town supports the development of mooring fields and will enforce its ordinance regulating the ' establishment of mooring fields. The ordinance, as it is currently written, regulates the establishment of mooring fields within the waters of Taylor's Creek. The town will consider amending this ordinance to include all of the waters within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands (a) Beaufort opposes any development on sound and estuarine islands located within its planning jurisdiction. (b) Beaufort will support the following policies for the Rachel Carson Sanctuary: -- Following research projects, responsible groups and organizations shall remove all material utilized in the project which is not naturally found in the Rachel Carson Sanctuary. -- The Rachel Carson Sanctuary can be utilized for the deposit of dredge spoil. If spoil is deposited in the Sanctuary, proper safety measures should be implemented to protect the public and wildlife from hazards associated with spoil sites such as "quicksand." However, if deposition must occur, the site should be located and constructed so as to not obstruct the view of the sound areas from the Beaufort waterfront. -- Commercial boat access to the Rachel Carson Sanctuary should be limited. The town will consider adoption of an ordinance to regulate commercial water taxi or ferry service between the mainland and the Sanctuary areas. -- Beaufort requests the right to review and comment on all plans for spoil sites to be located within the town's planning jurisdiction. Bulkhead Construction Beaufort supports the construction of bulkheads as long as they fulfill the use standards set forth in 15A NCAC 7H and the sea level rise policies as defined by this plan. , Sea Level Rise Beaufort recognizes the uncertainties associated with sea level rise. The rate of rise is difficult to predict. Those factors combine to make it difficult, if not impossible, to establish specific policies to deal with the effects of sea level rise. Beaufort will implement the following policies to respond to sea level rise: (a) In response to anticipated sea level rise, Beaufort will review all local building and land use related ordinances to establish setback standards, long-term land use plans, density controls, bulkhead restrictions, buffer vegetation protection requirements, and building designs which will facilitate the movement of structures. IV-8 -- The decision -making process for the award of incentives grants should involve river basin organizations representing local governments and other interest groups in the review of all applications for state funding. -- The ongoing effort of the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources to develop administrative rules implementing the proposed Neuse River Basin Management Strategy should continue to involve local government officials in the development, review, and refinement of the proposal. Rachel Carson Reserve The Town of Beaufort supports the State's management of the Rachel Carson Reserve (also known as Carrot Island - Bird Shoal) for research, education, and compatible public uses. The town also approves the current policy of maintaining a viable population of feral horses on the property. C. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES Community Attitude Toward Resource Production and Management Beaufort will implement policies which support resource production and management. All policies will meet or exceed 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards. Resource production should not be allowed to adversely affect Beaufort's sensitive coastal environment or natural heritage areas. Recreation Resources (a) Beaufort will work cooperatively with Carteret County to provide a year-round recreation program. (b) Beaufort considers coastal wetland areas to be valuable passive recreation areas. These areas should be protected in their natural state. Only uses which are permitted by 15A NCAC 7H will be allowed. (c) Beaufort supports public access to Radio Island shoreline areas. (d) Beaufort will develop a shoreline access plan to define the need for additional publicly - owned waterfront recreational facilities within its planning jurisdiction. This effort should be closely coordinated with shoreline access planning by the county. Productive Agricultural Lands Beaufort supports and encourages use of the U.S. Soil Conservation' Service "Best Management Practices" program. Productive Forest Lands There are no productive forest lands located within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. A forest lands policy is not required. IV-10 U J �J Aquaculture Activities Aquaculture is considered the cultivation of aquatic plants and animals under controlled conditions. The following policies shall apply. (a) Beaufort encourages all aquaculture activities which meet applicable federal, state and local policies (see Aquaculture policies b) and c) and permit requirements. However, Beaufort reserves the right to comment on all aquaculture activities which require Division of Environmental Management permitting. (b) Beaufort objects to any discharge of water from aquaculture activities that will degrade in any way the receiving waters. Beaufort objects to withdrawing water from aquifers or surface sources if such withdrawal will endanger water quality or water supply from the aquifers or surface sources. (c) Beaufort will support only aquaculture activities which do not alter significantly and negatively the natural environment of conservation areas as shown on the Land Classification Map. ■ Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Development Impacts on Resources (a) Residential, commercial and industrial development should be allowed in coastal wetlands which is consistent with 15A NCAC 7H and the policies contained in this plan. (b) Beaufort discourages any additional point source discharges of pollution into primary nursery areas and shellfishing areas. In addition, Beaufort reserves the right to review and comment on the approval of outfalls on a case -by -case basis. (c) Residential development meeting the use standards of 15 NCAC 711.0209 shall be allowed in estuarine shoreline areas. (d) Only commercial and industrial uses that are water dependent and which cannot function elsewhere or are supportive of commercial fishing will be allowed in conservation classified shoreline areas. Examples of such uses would include but not necessarily be limited to commercial fishing and fish processing, marinas consistent with the policies of this plan, boat repair and construction facilities, any business dependent upon natural salt water as a resource, and restaurants that do not extend into or over estuarine waters and/or public trust waters. Where zoning exists, all uses must be consistent with established zoning. (e) In order to preserve natural vegetation and scenic views, "no buildings or houses or structures excepting noncommercial docks or piers will be erected on the south side of Front Street in this (R-8) district." Off -Road Vehicles ' Beaufort opposes the utilization of off -road vehicles in any areas classified as coastal wetlands and in the entire Rachel Carson Sanctuary. ■ IV-11 Peat or Phosphate Mining I There are no significant peat or phosphate deposits located within Beaufort's planning ' jurisdiction. A policy statement is not required. Marine Resource Areas (a) Beaufort supports the use standards for estuarine and public trust are PP p as as specified in 15A NCAC .0207. (b) Beaufort reserves the right to review and comment on the policies and requirements , of the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries which govern commercial and recreational fisheries and activities. , (c) Beaufort will consider requesting funding assistance through * the Coastal Area Management Act for the development of a long-term harbor management plan. ' D. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Community Attitude on Economic and Communitv Develoament Beaufort desires to expand its economic base. A reasonable policy of annexation will be , maintained. Beaufort will support growth and development at the densities specified in the land classification definitions. The Town of Beaufort will pursue the development of an impact , study to determine the growth and development issues and needs associated with the construction of the proposedNC101 corridor. Water Supply There are no significant constraints to development or land development issues relating to the town's potable water supply. The town's water system will provide adequate water supply throughout the planning period. The town's policies concerning water supply shall be: (a) The town requires that all existing and new residential and commercial development be connected to both the town water and sewer systems. (b) The town will allow the installation of private wells for irrigation only through the NCDEM permit process. (c) The town will extend water services beyond its extraterritorial area if an adequate demand for service exists. (d) The Town of Beaufort will support a study of the limestone aquifer underlying Carteret County by the United States Geological Survey. This study would aid in determining the optimum locations for wells and the long-term viability of the town's water supply. The issue of salt water intrusion should be addressed by the study. (Recommend ' deletion). IV-12 Sewer System There are no problems or constraints to development caused by the town's sewage treatment system. The town will implement the following policies: (a) The town requires that all existing and new residential and commercial development ' be connected to both the town water and sewer systems. (b) Beaufort will support the development of central sewer service throughout its ' incorporated area and its unincorporated planning jurisdiction. Solid Waste ' (a) Beaufort supports Carteret County's participation in a regional multi -county approach to solid waste management. This includes disposal of waste in the Tri-County Regional Landfill. (b) The town will support efforts to educate people and businesses on waste reduction and recycling. The town vigorously supports recycling by all users of the Tri-County Landfill and supports setting up practical collection methods and education efforts to achieve a high degree of county -wide recycling. ' (c) Beaufort supports the siting of recycling centers within public and commercial land classifications. Energy Facility Siting and Development (a) There are no electric generating plants located in Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. The town will consider the need for establishing energy facilities on a case -by -case basis, judging the need for development against all identified possible adverse impacts. (b) Beaufort has some concerns over offshore drilling. In the event that oil or gas is discovered, Beaufort will not oppose drilling operations and onshore support facilities for which an Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared with a finding of no significant impact on the environment. Beaufort supports and requests full disclosure of development plans, with mitigative measures that will be undertaken to prevent adverse impacts on the environment, the infrastructure, and the social systems of Beaufort and Carteret County. The town also requests full disclosure of any adopted plans. Offshore drilling and the development of onshore support facilities may have severe costs for the town and county as well as advantages. The costs should be ' borne by the company(ies) which profits from offshore drilling and onshore support facilities. Redevelopment of Developed Areas The most important redevelopment issue confronting the Town of Beaufort would be reconstruction following a hurricane or other natural disaster. The town will implement its storm hazard mitigation post -disaster recovery plan to control redevelopment. However, the town will allow the reconstruction of any structures demolished by natural disaster which will comply with existing state and local codes. IV-13 A second redevelopment problem is the preservation of housing. The town will enforce its minimum housing code to ensure that minimum housing standards are met. Residential revitalization projects will be pursued where substandard housing exists. State and federal housing rehabilitation grants will be sought. Estuarine Access Beaufort supports the state's shoreline access policies as set forth in NCAC Chapter 15A, Subchapter 7M. The town will conform to CAMA and other state and federal environmental regulations affecting the development of estuarine access areas. The town will support development of a detailed shoreline access plan during the five-year planning period. Community Facilities During the planning period, Beaufort will develop a community services/facilities plan (as a stand-alone document, not as an expansion of this plan), which will define existing deficiencies in police protection, fire protection, local administrative buildings, public recreational facilities, public shoreline access, and public parks. This plan will not address school system needs. The plan will prioritize needs and make specific recommendations concerning financing and budgeting the high priority needs. Types and Locations of Desired Industry Beaufort desires to achieve responsible industrial development which will not adversely affect the natural environment or the quality of established residential areas. Large vacant areas exist within the town's planning jurisdiction which have the potential for industrial development. The following industrial development policies will be applied: (a) Industrial sites should be accessible to municipal/central water and sewer services. (b) Industries which are noxious by reason of the emission of smoke, odor, dust, glare, noise, and vibrations, and those which deal primarily in hazardous products such as explosives, should not be located in Beaufort. (c) Industrial development and/or industrial zoning should not infringe on established residential development. Commitment to State and Federal Programs Beaufort is generally receptive to state and federal programs, particularly those which provide improvements to the town. The town will continue to fully support such programs, especially the North Carolina Department of Transportation road and bridge improvement programs, which are very important to the Town of Beaufort. Examples of other state and federal programs that are important to and supported by Beaufort include: dredging and channel maintenance by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; federal and state projects which provide efficient and safe boat access for sport fishing; and community development block grants, housing for the elderly, low -to -moderate income housing, housing rehabilitation, programs which help remove impediments to the handicapped, and North LJ Ll IV-14 Carolina Housing Finance Agency housing improvement programs. However, Beaufort does not support expansion of military restricted airspace in eastern North Carolina. ' Assistance in Channel Maintenance Proper maintenance of channels is very important to Beaufort because of the substantial ' economic impact of commercial and sport fisheries. If silt or other deposits fill in the channels, safe and efficient movement of commercial and sport fishing and transport vessels could be impeded. Beaufort will support and cooperate with efforts by the Corps of Engineers and state officials to maintain channels. Assistance in Interstate Waterways Beaufort considers the interstate waterway to be a valuable economic asset. The town will provide assistance in maintaining the waterway by helping to obtain or providing dredge spoil ' sites and, when possible, providing easements across county -owned property for work. Tourism Beaufort will implement the following policies to further the development of tourism: (a) Beaufort will support North Carolina Department of Transportation projects to improve access to the town. (b) Beaufort will support projects that will increase public access to shoreline areas. (c) Beaufort will continue to support the activities of the North Carolina Division of Travel and Tourism; specifically, the monitoring of tourism -related industry, efforts to promote tourism -related commercial activity, and efforts to enhance and provide shoreline resources. (d) Beaufort will preserve its historic district and Taylor's Creek waterfront areas. (e) The Town of Beaufort supports the State's management of the Rachel Carson Reserve (also known as Carrot Island - Bird Shoal) for research, education, and compatible public uses. The town also approves the current policy of maintaining a viable population of feral horses on the property. Transportation (a) Beaufort supports implementation of the following land transportation improvements: -- A connector between N.C. 101 and U.S. 70 (the corridor for this road has not yet been determined). -- Reroute U.S. 70 from Cedar Street to Turner/West Beaufort Road. -- Utilize Orange and Turner Streets as a one-way pair providing access to the waterfront. - Elimination of the "Y" intersection with N.C. 101 and U.S. 70. IV-15 i -- Replacement of the drawbridge between Morehead City and Beaufort with a medium height bridge. A medium height bridge is considered to be between 40- 45 feet. In FY98, a planning study will be conducted by the DOT Planning and Environmental Branch to determine the exact recommended bridge height. , -- A possible minor thoroughfare is proposed to connect Steep Point Road just east of U.S. 70 and Mulberry Street at its intersection with Ocean Street. , Land Use Trends and Issues The town's land use trends and issues have been thoroughly discussed in other sections of this plan. Those trends include: -- Increasing residential development within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). -- Continued minor losses of agricultural and forestlands. -- Continued commercial development along Cedar Street and US 70 from Steep Point Road, north to the town's corporate limit line. -- Increased traffic congestion along the US 70 corridor. -- Construction of a new bridge on US 70 at Beaufort Channel to alleviate disruptions to east -west traffic. -- Continued extension of water and sewer utilities into the ETJ will serve as a catalyst for development. -- Continued expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport. These land use changes should be controlled through existing local, state, and federal land use regulations including CAMA, "404" regulations, the town's subdivision and zoning ordinances, and local building inspections program. The Town of Beaufort should work towards establishing a comprehensive annexation plan and growth management plan during the planning period. E. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES As the initial step in the preparation of this document, Beaufort prepared and adopted a "Public Participation Plan." The plan outlined the methodology for citizen involvement (See Appendix II). Public involvement was to be generated through public information meetings and advertising in local newspapers. The Board of Adjustment and Board of Commissioners were the principal boards responsible for development of the Land Use Plan. A public information meeting was conducted at the outset of the project on September 11, 1995, at 7:00 p.m., in the Beaufort Municipal Building. Also, a description of the land use plan preparation process and schedule was published in the Carteret County News and Times. Subsequently, meetings of the Board of Commissioners, Planning Board, Advisory Committee IV-16 were held on: October 16, 1995; November 20, 1995; February 29, 1996; and April 25, 1996. All meetings were open to the public. The Board of Commissioners conducted a public information meeting for review of and comment on the plan on September 9, 1996. The meeting was advertised in the Carteret County News -Times. The preliminary plan.was submitted to the Division of Coastal Management for comment on ' September 11, 1996. Following receipt of DCM comments, the plan was amended, and a formal public hearing on the final document was conducted on August 11, 1997. The public hearing was advertised in Carteret County News -Times on July 6, 1997. The plan was approved by the Beaufort Board of Commissioners on August 11, 1997, and submitted to the Coastal Resources Commission for certification. The plan was certified on September 26, 1997. Citizen input will continue to be solicited, primarily through the Planning Board, with advertised and adequately publicized public meetings held to discuss special land use issues and to keep citizens informed. IV-17 Ll F. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION i PLANS The purpose of this section of the 1990 CAMA Land Use Plan is to assist the Town of Beaufort in managing development in potentially hazardous areas through establishing storm hazard mitigation policies and to reduce the risks associated with severe storms and hurricanes by developing post -disaster reconstruction/recovery policies. In 1984, the town had a detailed ' plan prepared by Satilla Planning, Inc., and George Eichler and Associates. That document was well received by Beaufort and its emergency related personnel and agencies. The town desires to have that plan continue to serve as the town's storm hazard mitigation, ' post -disaster recovery, and evacuation plan. The following section, which is taken from the 1985 Land Use Plan, provides a summary of , the 1984 Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan and Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan: Storm Hazard Mitigation: Discussion ' A significant amount of the land in Beaufort lies within the hazard areas defined in Before the Storm (McElyea, Brower, and Godschalk, UNC Center for Urban & Regional Studies, , 1982), the Division of Coastal Management's guide to pre -hurricane and post -disaster planning. Applicable hazard areas within Beaufort included the estuarine shoreline AEC (Hazard Area 1, the most severe category), and FEMA A -zone lines (Hazard Area 3). The ' floodplain areas are delineated on Map 4. In most cases, these lands are subject to local, state and federal standards which will limit the placement or replacement of structures within the hazard area. In general terms, Beaufort's existing policies meet the requirements for storm hazard mitigation planning in Before the Storm. These policies consist of a combination of , accompanying land use plan policies and regulations established by the town's land development ordinances. Specifically: , -- Lands in the estuarine shoreline AEC are subject to development limitations imposed by the CRC. The expected effect will be to further limit the amount and placement of development in these fragile areas. This will indirectly provide a further limitation on new construction which would be at risk from hurricanes and tropical storms. , -- Lands in FEMA A -zones are subject to elevation standards and insurance requirements which help ensure that damage to any new development which occurs will be minimized in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm. , -- The town's policies and ordinances support and are consistent with state policies and regulations for development in Areas of Environmental Concern. , -- All new development must conform with the provisions of the North Carolina Building Code. , -- The town's flood plain development policies conform with all federal and state requirements. ' IV-18 i Post -Disaster Reconstruction The Beaufort Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan has been provided as a separate document. A summary of Post -Disaster Reconstruction policies and procedures is outlined below. These policies support intergovernmental coordination with the Carteret County Evacuation Plan and recovery procedures operations. The town's Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan is organized in the following sections: -- Introduction -- Organization of Local Damage Assessment Team -- Damage Assessment Procedures and Requirements -- Organization of Recovery Operations -- Recommended Reconstruction Policies ' The following provides a summary of the plan's most important provisions and policies from each of these five sections. (1) Introduction. Defines plan purpose and use; identifies three distinct reconstruction periods: Emergency, Restoration and Replacement/Reconstruction. Outlines sequence of procedures to be followed to meet State and Federal Disaster relief regulations: ' 1) Assess storm damage and report to county, 2) County compiles and summarizes individual community reports, 3) State compiles county data and makes recommendation to the Governor, 4) Governor requests presidential declaration, 5) Federal Relief programs available. (2) Organization of Local Damage Assessment Team. Outlines personnel available and sets up means for mayoral appointment of team. 3 Damage Assessment Procedures and Requirements. The purpose of this phase is to O 9 q P P rapidly determine immediately following a storm disaster: 1) number of structures damaged, 2) magnitude of damage by structure type, 3) estimated total dollar loss, and 4) estimated total dollar loss covered by insurance. To accomplish this, the plan established four categories of damage: 1) destroyed (repairs > 80% of value), 2) major ' (repairs > 30% of value), 3) minor (repairs < 30% of value), and 4) habitable (repairs < 15% of value). Any structure located in an AEC which is damaged more than 50% of its value is considered destroyed by CAMA permitting standards, and a new permit will be required for reconstruction of such structure. A color coding system is recommended for this phase of damage assessment. Total damage in dollars is estimated by taking the tax valuation times a factor to make prices current, then factoring these figures according to number of structures in each of the above damage classifications. Estimated insurance coverage is made by utilizing information as to average coverage obtained by insurance agencies on an annual basis. ' (4) Organization of Recovery Operations. The Mayor and Board of Commissioners assume the duties of a Recovery Task Force. The Task Force must accomplish the following: -- Establish re-entry procedures. ' - Establish overall restoration scheme. IV-19 -- Set restoration priorities. -- Determine requirements for outside assistance and requesting such assistance when beyond local capabilities. -- Keep appropriate County and State officials informed using Situation and Damage Reports. -- Keep the public informed. -- Assemble and maintain records of actions taken and expenditures and obligations incurred. -- Proclaim a local "state of emergency" if warranted. -- Commence clean-up, debris removal, and utility restoration activities undertaken by private utility companies. -- Undertake repair and restoration of essential public facilities and services in accordance with priorities developed through situation evaluations. -- Assist individual property owners in obtaining information on the various types of assistance that might be available from Federal and State agencies. (5) Recommended Reconstruction Policies. The policies outlined are for the Mayor and Commissioners to consider after a storm occurs. It is impractical to determine at this time what specific responses are appropriate, since the circumstances surrounding a given storm can vary greatly. The following policy areas are discussed: Permitting: Permits to restore previously conforming structures outside AEC's issued automatically. Structures suffering major damage allowed to rebuild to original state but must be in compliance with N.C. Building Code, Zoning, and Flood Hazard Regu- lations. Structures with minor damage allowed to rebuild to original state before the storm. Structures in AEC's allowed to rebuild only after determination has been made as to adequacy of existing development regulations in these special hazard areas. Utility and Facility Reconstruction: Water system components repaired or replaced must be floodproofed or elevated above the 100-year flood level. Procedures established to effect emergency repairs to major thoroughfares if necessary. Temporary Development Moratorium: To be considered after major storm damage for AEC's if existing regulations appear inadequate to protect structures from storm damage. I V-20 L SECTION V: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS As required by 15A NCAC 7B planning guidelines, the Beaufort land use plan must relate the policies section to the land classification map and provide some indication as to which land uses are appropriate in each land classification. The Town of Beaufort's zoning ordinance is consistent with the land classification map and supports the distribution of land uses shown on that map. A. DEVELOPED CLASS Beaufort's primary growth should continue to occur within the corporate limits, along U.S. 70, and north of the airport and adjacent to the airport. Those areas are classified as developed. These areas will require basic urban services. The developed class is specifically designated to accommodate intense development and land uses, including single and multi -family residential, commercial, industrial parks and open space, community facilities, and transportation. Population densities will be high. The greatest demand for urban services will exist within this classification. B. URBAN TRANSITION CLASS Urban transition areas will provide lands to accommodate future urban growth within the planning period. The average development densities will be less than the developed class densities and greater than the limited transition class densities. Development may include mixed land uses such as single and multi -family residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, and other uses at high to moderate densities. Urban services may include water, sewer, streets, police, and fire protection. Population densities will be high. The urban transition classification is dispersed in three separate areas in the Beaufort extraterritorial jurisdiction. C. LIMITED TRANSITION This classification will provide for controlled development with some urban services. This classification is necessary to provide for growth occurring northeast of Beaufort between the corporate limits and Davis Bay, along the east side of N.C. 101 just inside the town's extraterritorial boundary, and along a portion of U.S. 70 north of Beaufort. The orderly development of the areas, including proper development of some municipal services, will support the economic development and natural resource policies of this land use plan. The predominant land use will be moderate density residential. Clustering or development associated with planned unit developments may be appropriate within this classification. D. RURAL WITH SERVICES CLASS The rural with services classification is to provide for low density land uses including residential use where limited water services are provided in order to avert an existing or projected health problem. Areas meeting the intent of this class are appropriate for low density residential uses where lot sizes are large and where the provision of services will not disrupt the primary rural character of the landscape. Most development may be supported by V-1 a closed water system. The only rural with services classified area lies between N.C. 101 and U.S. 70. This area will be developed, but probably not within the planning period. E. CONSERVATION CLASS The conservation class is designated to provide for effective long-term management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas which include Areas of Environmental Concern. Development in the estuarine system should be restricted to uses which satisfy 15A NCAC 7H use standards. Except for policies addressing industrial impacts on fragile areas; development of sound and estuarine islands; and residential, commercial and industrial development impacts on resources, the Conservation class policies and standards included in this plan are not more restrictive than the 15A NCAC 7H use standards. F. SUMMARY The Town of Beaufort enforces both zoning and subdivision ordinances. The zoning ordinance is consistent with this land use plan and includes 13 separate zoning categories. The developed, urban transition and limited transition land classes are appropriate locations for the following zoning categories: R-20 single-family, R-15 single-family, R-10 single-family, R-8 multi -family, central downtown business, waterfront commercial, general business, highway business, marine business, light industrial, and industrial warehouse. The historic district zoning classification is located in the developed classification in central or "downtown" Beaufort. The open space zoning district is appropriate for the conservation classified areas. 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 it 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 APPENDICES ' APPENDIX I TOWN OF BEAUFORT LAND USE PLAN ' POLICIES CONSIDERED BUT NOT ADOPTED ' B. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS Manmade Hazards -- Any expansion of fuel storage tank facilities on Radio Island should comply with applicable state and federal regulations for which proper environmental safeguards have been provided. -- Beaufort does not object to the establishment of a closed loop system agricultural "wash down" facility on Radio Island, if an environmental impact statement of no significant effect on the environment has been prepared and proper environmental safeguards are implemented. The Town of Beaufort opposes the wash down of any equipment which has been exposed to any non-agricultural hazardous materials. -- The Town of Beaufort supports any runway extensions or other airport expansions which will not result in the closing of a section of N.C. 101, any permanent rerouting of traffic presently utilizing N.C. 101, or any changes to N.C. 101 which will result in increased traffic in the vicinity of the Beaufort Middle School. The town's preference for the extension of Runway 8-26 is to have the runway extended to the northeast which would require the relocation of a portion of NC 101. -- Beaufort recognizes that it does not have any authority to regulate the area or elevation of military flights. However, the town opposes any low level military training flights that are not in compliance with the minimum safe altitudes for aircraft operation as described in the Federal Aviation Regulations, Part 91. Marina and Floating Home Development -- The Town of Beaufort reserves the right to comment on the number of slips which are being permitted within a marina. -- The number of slips within a marina shall be limited to slips. -- Beaufort opposes the location of floating structures in all marinas, public trust areas, and estuarine waters. Floating structures are defined as any structure or vessel used, designed, and occupied as a permanent dwelling unit, business, office, or source of any occupation or any private or social club, which floating structure or vessel is primarily immobile and out of navigation or which functions substantially as a land structure while moored or docked on waters within county jurisdiction. Floating structures shall not be used commercially or inhabited in one place for more than 15 days. The Town of Beaufort will review and revise its local floating home ordinance to be consistent with this policy (refer to paragraph d), page 1-30). Mooring Fields -- Beaufort is concerned with the potential for the development of mooring fields. The town opposes the development of mooring fields and will enforce its ordinance regulating the establishment of mooring fields. The ordinance, as it is currently written, regulates the establishment of mooring fields within the waters of Taylor's Creek. The town will consider amending this ordinance to include all of the waters within Beaufort's planning jurisdiction. Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands -- The Rachel Carson Sanctuary will be utilized for the deposit of dredge spoil only as a last resort site, and only if all other options have been exhausted. If spoil is deposited in the Sanctuary, proper safety measures should be implemented to protect the public and wildlife from hazards associated with spoil sites such as "quicksand." However, if the Rachel Carson Sanctuary must be used for spoil sites, spoil sites should be located and constructed so as to not obstruct the view of the sound areas from the Beaufort waterfront. Sea Level Rise -- Beaufort will support bulkheading to protect its shoreline areas from intruding water resulting from rising sea level. C. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Development Impacts on Resources -- Residential, commercial, and industrial development which is consistent with local zoning and meets 15A NCAC 7H use standards will be allowed in estuarine shorelines, estuarine waters, and public trust areas. Residential, commercial, and industrial development in coastal wetland areas will not be allowed. This policy shall not apply to the possible expansion of the Michael J. Smith Airport into coastal wetland areas. -- In order to preserve natural vegetation and scenic views, the Town of Beaufort will consider amending its zoning ordinance to include vista requirements in the R-8 zoning district. -- In order to preserve natural vegetation and scenic views, the Town of Beaufort will prohibit the construction of structures on the south side of Front Street in the R-8 zone. This policy is enforced by the Town's Zoning Ordinance. 1! APPENDIX II TOWN OF BEAUFORT CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN PREPARATION OF LAND USE PLAN FISCAL YEAR 1995-96 The Town of Beaufort has received a FY95-96 Coastal Area Management Act grant for the ' update of its existing Land Use Plan. Adequate citizen participation in the development of the Plan is essential to the preparation of a document responsive to the needs of the citizens of Beaufort. To ensure such input, the following citizen participation program will be utilized by the ' town. The Board of Commissioners will work with the town's planning consultant to ensure that the final product will survey existing land use, identify policies, recommend strategies/actions, and identify Areas of Environmental Concern. The plan will focus on issues expected to occur during the planning period, including infrastructure needs, housing needs, transportation planning, and environmental. A completely new land classification map will be provided. Specifically, the planning consultant and the Board of Commissioners will be responsible for ensuring accomplishment of the following: ' -- Establishment of policies to deal with existing and anticipated land use issues. — Preparation of a land classification map. -- Preparation of hurricane mitigation and post -disaster recovery plans and policies. — Assessment of opportunities for participation in state and federal programs. — An updated Land Use Plan based on an effective citizen participation process. ' The following schedule will be utilized: 1. September, 1995 — complete identification of existing land use problems, develop socioeconomic base data, and review community facilities needs. 2. September, 1995 — Conduct initial meeting with the Town of Beaufort Board of ' Commissioners, and have the Citizen Participation Plan adopted. 3. September, 1995 The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public information meeting. The meeting will be advertised in a local newspaper. The town will specifically discuss the policy statements contained in the 1990 Town of Beaufort Land Use Plan. The significance of the policy statements to the CAMA land use planning process shall be described. The process by which the Town of Beaufort will solicit the views of a wide cross-section of citizens in the development of the updated policy statements will be explained. ' 4. October, 1995 - May, 1996 — Continue preparation of a draft Land Use Plan and conduct meetings with the Beaufort Planning Board. ' 5. June, 1996 — Present complete draft sections of the plan and preliminary policy statements to the Beaufort Board of Commissioners. 6. July, 1996 — Review draft Land Use Plan with Board of Commissioners, conduct a public information meeting for review of the proposed plan, and submit draft of completed Land Use Plan to the Department of. Environment, Health and Natural Resources staff for review and comment. 7. Following receipt of Coastal Resources Commission comments (estimate October or November, 1996) -- Present proposed Land Use Plan to Board of Commissioners for adoption, and conduct a formal public hearing. All meetings of the Town of Beaufort Planning Board and Board of Commissioners at which the update of the Land Use Plan will be discussed will be advertised in a local newspaper in a non- legal ad section. In addition, public service announcements will be mailed to local radio stations and posted in the Municipal Building. All meetings will be open to the public. The town will encourage and consider all economic, social, ethnic, and cultural viewpoints. No major non-English speaking groups are known to exist in Beaufort. 8/29/95