Land Use Plan-1995

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Division of Coastal Management Copy
TOWN OF BELVILLE
,1
1994 LAND USE PLAN
MARCH, 1995
Adopted by the Belville Board of Commissioners: February 21, 1995
Certified by Coastal Resources Commission: March 24, 1995
Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
'
Wilmington, North Carolina
1
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 Resources Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric. Administration.

BELVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
1994 LAND USE PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page Number
SECTION I: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
A.
ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE
B.
POPULATION
C.
ECONOMY
D.
HOUSING
E.
EXISTING LAND USE
1.
General Land Use Patterns
2.
Residential Land Use
3.
Commercial Land Use
4.
Government Land Use
5.
Industrial Land Use
6.
Institutional Land Use
7.
Vacant Land
8.
Land Use Summary
9.
Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations
10.
Effectiveness of the 1989 Land Use Plan and Policies
F.
DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: PUBLIC FACILITIES
1.
Water Supply
2.
Sewage Disposal
3.
Solid Waste
4.
Transportation
5.
Schools
6.
Recreation
7.
Other Facilities
8.
Medical Services
9.
Emergency and Protective Services
10.
Electrical Distribution
G.
DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY
1.
Soils
2.
Water Resources
3.
Natural Hazard Areas
4.
Fragile Areas
a) Public Trust Areas
b) Estuarine Shorelines
c) Estuarine Waters
d) Coastal Wetlands
e) 404 Wetlands
5.
Man-made Hazards
6.
Slopes in Excess of 12%
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I-7
I-8
I-10
I-13
I-13
I-16
I-17
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I-17
I-18
I-18
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I-19
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I-20
I-20
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1-21
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I-25
I-25
I-25
I-25
I-26
I-26
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7. Excessive Erosion Areas I-26
8. Areas of Resource Potential I-26
a) Agricultural and Forest Lands I-26
b) Public Parks I-27
SECTION II: PROJECTED LAND DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS
A. PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT II-1
1. Demographic Trends II-3
2. Future Land Needs II-3
3. Community Facilities Needs 11-4
4. Redevelopment Issues II-4
5. Intergovernmental Coordination and Implementation II-4
SECTION III: LAND USE CLASSIFICATION III-1
SECTION IV: BELVILLE POLICY STATEMENTS
A. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICIES IV-1
B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES IV-6
C. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES IV-8
D. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IV-12
E. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY,
AND EVACUATION PLANS IV-13
SECTION V: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS V-1
2

LIST OF TABLES
Table 1:
Town of Belville Population, By Sex and Age, 1980-1990 Census
I-7
Table 2:
Comparison of Various Age Groups - 1990 Census,
Town of Belville/Brunswick County,
I-8
Table 3:
Comparison of Percentage of Employed Residents by Employment
I-9
Sector - 1990
Table 4:
Comparison of Per Capita Income, 1990 Census
I-9
Table 5:
Town of Belville, 1989/1994 Land Use Acreages
I-13
Table 6:
Town of Belville, Housing Conditions, 1989/1994
I-16
Table 7:
Total Year Round Population Projections, 1990-2004
H-1
Brunswick County
Table 8:
Selected Demographic and Economic Date to 2015; United States,
II-2
Southeast Region, and Brunswick County
LIST OF MAPS
Map 1: Town of Belville Housing Conditions I-11
Map 2: Town of Belville Existing Land Use I-14
Map 3: Belville Annexation I-15
Map 4: Town of Belville Land Classification Map III-3
APPENDICES
Appendix I Policies Considered But Not Adopted
Appendix II Citizen Participation Plan

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SECTION I: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
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' SECTION I: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
A. ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE
This 1994 Land Use Plan Update for the Town of Belville is prepared in accordance with
requirements of the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). Specifically, this
document complies with Subchapter 711, "Land Use Planning Guidelines, " of the North Carolina
Administrative Code, as amended, December 12, 1991.
The land use plan serves to guide the development of a community by addressing issues and
adopting policies that pertain to that particular community. Specifically, the land use plan
should provide the following:
1) an analysis of existing conditions;
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; and
6) an explanation of the relationship of the policies to the land classifications.
The Belville Land Use Plan Update contains a summary of data collection and analysis, an
existing land use map, a policy discussion, and a land classification map. 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. The 7B guidelines require that the following issues must 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.
The 1989 Belville Land Use Plan included policy statements which addressed these five policy
areas. The following provides a summary of the 1989 policies. It is emphasized that this is
only a summary and not the complete 1989 policies section.
A. RESOURCE PROTECTION
1. Areas of Environmental Concern
The Town of Belville will support the enforcement of the CAMA and
404 wetlands permitting processes. Only those land uses compatible with
the Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) will be encouraged. All
policies set forth in Subchapter 7H of the North Carolina Administrative
Code will be supported.
I-1

2.
93
4.
5.
The town supports the Brunswick County public trust AEC policy:
"Brunswick County supports the protection of public rights for
navigation and recreation in public trust AECs, tempered by the
community's need for piers and docks which serve and benefit
the public, whether publicly or privately owned."
The town will adopt a zoning ordinance sensitive to AEC areas.
The town will support the CAMA permitting process.
Natural and Cultural Resources
The Town of Belville, in its zoning ordinance development, will consider
requiring all developers to contact the North Carolina Department of
Archives and History prior to any land disturbing activity.
The town will support the preservation/protection of Eagle Island.
Constraints to Development
The Town of Belville will vigorously pursue the planning, financing,
design and construction of a central sewer collection system.
The Town of Belville will adopt a zoning ordinance sensitive to
stormwater runoff.
The town will encourage the coordination of development in flood hazard
areas with applicable State and Federal regulations.
Marina and Floating Home Development
The Town of Belville will encourge responsible marina/dock facility
development; not to exceed 20 total slips for boats up to 35'. Marinas
may include dry stacking facilities for boats up to 25'. Dry stack
facilities shall not provide space for more than 100 boats.
The Town of Belville will support navigation improvements on the
Brunswick River for recreational purposes.
The town will discourage permanent anchoring or dockage of live -aboard
boats and floating homes within its waters.
Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
There are not any industrial areas within or adjacent to the Town of
Belville. The town will not support the introduction of any industry
producing toxic waste or man-made hazards. The town will consider the
location of industries within its jurisdiction on a case -by -case basis in
areas classified as transition or developed. However, industrial
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development of conservation classed lands along the Brunswick River
will not be supported or encouraged.
6. Protection of Potable Water Sunnly
The Town of Belville is supplied water by the Leland Sanitary District
water system. Therefore, the town supports the following Brunswick
County policy and implementation actions:
'Brunswick County will continue improvements and expansion
of the public water supply system and will continue to protect the
quality of the groundwater resource through improvements in the
public water supply system; control of toxic industrial and septic
effluent discharges into groundwater supplies and effective
stormwater management and erosion sedimentation controls.
7. Use of Package Treatment Plants
The Town of Belville will pursue development of a central sewer system.
Until specific plans for that system are complete, the town will accept
environmentally sound package treatment plants. However, after the
development of the central system, no package treatment plants will be
allowed.
8. Stormwater Runoff Associated with Agriculture, Residential
Development. Phosphate or Peat Mining, and Its Impact on Coastal
Wetlands, Surface Waters, or Other Fragile Areas.
The Town of Belville will support the state and CAMA regulations as
related to stormwater runoff. In the FY1990 zoning regulations, the
town will establish regulations to limit the stormwater runoff associated
with residential and commercial development.
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES
1. Agriculture
The Town of Belville will adopt a zoning ordinance and establish a one -
mile extraterritorial area.
2. Commercial Forestry
There are no commercial forest lands in Belville. However, the town
does support commercial forestry as a major natural and economic
resource in Brunswick County.
3. Mining Resource Areas
The Town of Belville does not possess minable resources such as peat or
phosphate
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4.
Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
The town supports the Brunswick County Land Use Plan policy of
calling for better fisheries management and enforcement in coastal
waters.
5.
Off -Road Vehicles
The use of off -road vehicles on private property is acceptable only in
non -shoreline areas.
6.
Residential and Commercial Land Development
The Town of Belville will pursue annexation of adjacent developed areas.
Annexation action is considered by the town to be crucial to survival of
Belville as a viable municipality. A commercial area adjacent to old
U.S. 74 is being considered for annexation. Other areas may also be
considered.
The town will encourage all commercial and residential growth which is
consistent with State and local ordinances. A minimum housing code
will be adopted. Emphasis will be placed on improving the condition of
existing houses.
C. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES
1.
Industrial Development
The Town of Belville will pursue the annexation of property suitable for
industrial development.
The Town of Belville will adopt a zoning ordinance which establishes
industrial development zones and will be designed to prohibit
objectionable and environmentally damaging industrial development.
The Town of Belville will work with and support the industrial
development efforts of Brunswick County. The town will support the
industrial development policies contained in the Brunswick County Land
Use Plan.
2.
Local Commitment to Service Provisions
The Town of Belville will immediately pursue the construction of a
central sewer system.
The Town of Belville will develop a capital improvements and general
service long-range plan for existing and proposed areas of Belville.
.The Town of Belville will pursue the establishment of town -financed
police services at the earliest feasible date.
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Full services will be extended to all annexed areas.
3. Desired Urban Growth Pattern
The Town of Belville will adopt a zoning ordinance sensitive to
controlling "strip commercialization."
The Town of Belville, represented by the Mayor, will actively participate
in the Wilmington Area -Wide Transportation Planning process.
4. Redevelopment of Developed Areas
The Town of Belville will adopt a zoning ordinance with special
emphasis on reducing signage.
'
As appropriate, the town will pursue State and Federal grant funds to
assist with the revitalization of commercial areas.
5. Commitment to State and Federal Programs
The Town of Belville is receptive to State and Federal programs,
particularly those which provide improvements to the town. The town
will attempt to identify and support those programs which are consistent
with its stated policies and notify the State and Federal officials of any
areas of land use incompatibility.
policy
'
6. Assistance to Channel Maintenance
The town will encourage channel improvements in the Brunswick River,
but will not provide local funds for channel improvements.
7. Energy Facilities Siting
The town will not support the policy of oil being offloaded in the Cape
Fear River because of the possible contamination of the Brunswick River
in case of a spill.
Waterfront Access
8. Tourism and Beach and
The town supports the following policy statement contained in the
Brunswick County Land Use Plan:
'
"The beaches and waterfronts of Brunswick County are its single
greatest economic attraction. Maximum access to these areas is
critical. The County only has a very small amount of beach
under its direct jurisdiction (Baptist Assembly Ground). Most of
the County's beaches are under the jurisdiction of incorporated
beach municipalities. There is concern that the County's beaches
'
and waterfront need to remain highly accessible in order to
facilitate new growth in tourism."
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Brunswick County supports and encourages efforts to provide reasonable
public access to the beaches and coastal waterfronts.
9. Density of Development
The Town of Belville will aggressively pursue annexation in order to
increase its population base and development opportunities. Annexation
studies will be utilized to ensure the provision of adequate services for
expansion areas.
10. Land Use Trends
The town will support both comprehensive planning and the adoption of
land use controls.
Listed below are some of the sources and documents utilized during preparation of this Land Use
Plan:
-- Brunswick County 1993 Land Use Plan Update
-- Town of Belville 1989 Land Use Plan
-- USDA, Soil Conservation Service, Brunswick County
-- NCDOT, Planning and Policies Section
-- Town of Belville Staff
-- Brunswick County School System
-- North Carolina Division of Archives and History
-- N.C. State Data Center, Office of State Planning
-- North Carolina Division of Community Assistance
,
-- -North Carolina Division of Coastal. Management
-- North Carolina Department of Economic and Community Development
These sources were supplemented by "windshield" surveys conducted in March, 1994, to obtain
data on existing land use patterns and housing conditions.
Section E.10., Effectiveness of the 1989 Land Use Plan Policies, page I-19, discusses how
effective the town has been in implementing the policy statements included in the 1989 Land Use
Plan. In this plan, the town will focus on continued enforcement of CAMA regulations,
completion of a sewer collection system, development of the town's riverside park, annexation,
and development of a zoning ordinance.
Since 1989, there have not been any subdivisions and lots approved, or building permits issued,
within the Town of Belville.
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B. POPULATION
The Town of Belville had a significant year-round population decrease from 1980-1990. The
1980 Census indicated a total population of 106 persons. However, by 1990 the total population
had decreased to 46 persons. Ell This decline was due mainly to the closing of three mobile home
parks in the early 1980s, and to declining commercial activity within the town limits. Table 1
shows the 1980-1990 population broken down by age group and sex.
TABLE 1
Town of Belville Population
By Sex, By Age - 1980/1990 Census
Age
Total
Female
Male
1980
1990
1980
1990
1980
1990
Under 5
10
2
4
0
6
2
5- 14
17
11
9
5
8
6
15-19
3
2
0
2
3
0
20 - 24
6
3
4
1
2
2
25 - 44
33
20
16
13
17
7
45 - 64
15
6
9
3
6
3
65 & Over
22
2
6
0
16
2
106
46
48
24
58
22
Source: 1980 and 1990 U.S. Census.
As Table 1 indicates, the most significant decreases in population by age group from 1980-1990
were in the "under 5" and "65 and over" age groups. These trends reflect Belville's low birth
rate and lack of attraction to migrating retirees in comparison to Brunswick County as a whole.
As Table 2 on page 8 indicates, the county's percentage of individuals aged 65 and over is more
than three times Belville's percentage. Other inconsistencies between the town/county
populations by age group reflect the overall out -migration from Belville for all other age groups
that occurred during the 1980s.
[1] 1992 population estimates for Brunswick County and its municipalities are currently available from the State
Data Center. However, since municipal estimates are based largely on the overall rate of county population growth
from 1980-1990, these estimates are considered inappropriate for any study of Belville's population, which did not
share the county's significant growth rate from 1970-1990. (Two recent annexations in Belville are another factor
not considered in the State Data Center 1992 estimates.) 1990 Census figures will be used throughout this section,
since they are based on retrieved data, not estimates.
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TABLE 2
Comparison of Various Age Groups
1990 Census - Belville/Brunswick County
Percentage of Total Population
Age
Town of Belville
Brunswick Countv
Under 5
4.3 %
6.4 %
5 - 14
24.0%
13.0%
15 - 19
4.3%
6.8%
20 - 24
6.5 %
5.7 %
25 - 44
43.5 %
29.1 %
45 - 64
13.1 %
24.4 %
65 & Over
4.3 %
14.6 %
Source: 1990 U.S. Census
In 1990, only two minority (black) individuals lived in Belville. Whites composed 96 % of the
population, compared to a white population of 81 % for Brunswick County as a whole. The
white population is high compared to the 1990 North Carolina white population percentage of
76%.
The male population in Belville decreased significantly faster than the female population from
1980-1990. In 1980, males comprised 55% of the total town population. By 1990, the male
population percentage had dropped to 48 %, which is consistent with Brunswick County's male
population percentage.
The Town of Belville annexed three areas in 1991 and 1992. All three of these area are in
Town Creek Township. Although a sizeable portion of the property annexed was nonresidential,
a total of ten residential structures were added to the town, at least eight of which are currently
occupied. According to the town's Mayor, these eight households include a total of
approximately 12 individuals, which is a sizeable addition to the town's 1990 population.
The strong trend of coastal/residential development that has occurred in Brunswick County in
recent years should not be a significant factor impacting population growth in Belville during
the planning period. In order to sustain growth, the town will have to continue to annex
property in Town Creek Township as residential development continues along N.C. 133 south
of the existing town limits.
C. ECONOMY `N"
The Town of Belville offers limited local employment opportunities for its residents. All of the
town's employed residents worked outside the town limits in 1990. However, town residents
have convenient employment opportunities in Wilmington and New Hanover County. In 1990,
the mean travel time to work was only 20 minutes. While specific places of work were not
identified, the travel time suggests that the majority of the residents were employed in the
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Wilmington Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area (S.M.S.A.). Fourteen of the 17 employed
residents worked outside of Brunswick County.
As a result of its location at the intersection of heavily traveled highways, the commercial
activities' within the Town of Belville are mainly service oriented businesses such as motels,
restaurants, convenience stores and transportation companies. The only identifiable seasonal
fluctuations are the summer increases for the convenience stores on N.C. 133.
The majority of employed residents of the Town of Belville work in the wholesale or retail
trade/service sectors. Table 3 compares the employment sectors of the town's workers with
those of Brunswick County and the State of North Carolina.
TABLE 3
Comparison of Percentage of Employed Residents
by Employment Sector - 1990
Employment Sector
Belville Brunswick Co.
North
Carolina
Agriculture, forestry & fishing
0
4.3 %
2.8 %
Construction
23.5 %
13.3 %
7.0 %
Mining
0
0.1 %
0.1 %
Manufacturing
0
13.9 %
26.7 %
Transportation, communications & utilities
17.6 %
11.2 %
6.3 %
Wholesale & retail trade
29.4 %
21.5 %
20.3 %
Finance, insurance & real estate
0
5.4 %
5.1 %
Services
23.5 %
26.2 %
28.0 %
Public Administration
6.0%
4.1 %
3.7%
Source: 1990 Census.
Table 4 shows a comparison of 1990 per capita income among the town,
Brunswick
County, and
North Carolina.
TABLE 4
Comparison of Per Capita Income
1990 Census
Town of Belville
$10,195
Brunswick County
$11;688
North Carolina
$12,885
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The town's 1990 per capita income is well below that of the county and the state, which is
indicative of a shift in employment away from manufacturing and toward the retail/service
sectors. In 1980, 40% of the town's labor force was employed in the manufacturing sector, and
the town's per capita income was above the county's per capita income. With no individuals
employed in the manufacturing sector in 1990, the town's per capita income decreased relative
to the county/state incomes.
The out -migration, unemployment, or retirement of individuals from higher paying
manufacturing jobs resulted in very negative economic indicators for Belville's populace as a
whole in 1990. For example, only two of 23 households enumerated for economic
characteristics in 1990 had 1989 household incomes above $25,000. Also, 28% of the town's
individuals were subsisting below the poverty level in 1989. This is a substantial increase from
1979, when only 3 % of the town's residents were subsisting below the poverty level. By
comparison, only 15 % of Brunswick County's residents and only 13 % of North Carolina's
residents had incomes below the federal poverty level in 1990. Finally, Belville had a 22.7 %
unemployment rate in 1990, compared to a county rate of only 7.1 %.
D. HOUSING
In 1980, 58 housing units were enumerated in Belville during the U.S. Census. Forty (69%)
of these 58 units were mobile homes. Forty-seven (47) units were enumerated during a 1988
housing needs assessment performed in conjunction with preparation of the 1989 CAMA land
use plan, and only 27 units (57 %) were classified as mobile homes. The Town of Belville made
a significant effort to remove/demolish substandard, vacant mobile homes from 1980-1988.
Despite this effort, during the 1988 needs assessment, 28 % of the town's housing stock was
defined as substandard according to Division of Community Assistance standards. Map 1
delineates the town's housing conditions.
During the 1990 Census, only 35 housing units were enumerated. Based on the windshield
survey performed in 1988, it is the consultant's opinion that the actual number of dwelling units
located in Belville in 1990 was approximately 40, and that 1990 Census data did not include
some vacant mobile home units enumerated in the 1988 survey. However, there was
unquestionably a decrease in the number of units from 1988-1990 due to continued removal of
substandard mobile home units by the town. The annexations by the town during 1991-92 have
increased the town's permanent site -built housing stock by ten units. However, the total number
of housing units in 1994 is approximately 37. The continued removal of dilapidated mobile
homes has reduced the total number of dwelling units. Map 1 identifies the 1994 housing
conditions based on an actual field survey. The map terms, moderately deteriorated and severely
deteriorated, refer to units needing minor repair and major repair, respectively. Minor non -need
units are those that have no or minimal repairs required, and should be considered standard
units.
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LEGEND
O MINOR NON -NEED FRAME BUILT DWELLING
C SEVERELY DETERIORATED FRAME BUILT DWELLING
C' DUPLEX
C MINOR NOWNEED MOBILE HOME
MODERATELY DETERIORATED MOBILE HOME
DILAPIDATED MOBILE HOME
TOWN OF BELVILLE
HOUSING CONDITIONS
MAP 1
N
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.
\
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' identified b a 1989 field survey were site -built dwelling units.
Twenty (43 %) of the 47 units y y g
The average number of rooms per structure in 1990 was only four, typical of an area with
quickly -aging conventional housing stock and a large percentage of mobile homes. The 1994
field survey identified 16 mobile homes, 19 standard site -built structures, and two severely
deteriorated site -built structures (see Table 6, page I-16). The annexations have generally
improved the overall quality of the town's housing stock, and this is a trend that the town can
utilize to generate additional community development efforts.
SUMMARY
• Belville's population decreased significantly from 1980-1990 primarily as the result of
out -migration.
• The largest decreases in population from 1980-1990 were in the under 5 and over 65 age
groups.
• The town has very low minority and elderly populations compared to Brunswick County.
• The town's male population is decreasing in relation to the female population.
• Due to out -migration of workers with higher paying jobs, the town's unemployment rate
increased, effective per capita income decreased, and percentage of individuals living
below the poverty level increased from 1980-1990.
• The number of housing units has decreased appreciably since 1980, due largely to the
' demolition/removal of substandard mobile homes.
• The overall quality of the town's housing stock has increased since 1980.
'• The town has experienced recent (1990-1994) population growth due to annexation in
1991-92.
rapid population growth and
The town will not be substantially affected by the trend of p p p g
seasonal recreational development that has impacted Brunswick County as a whole in
recent years. Planning efforts should focus on sustaining population/economic growth
through small-scale, carefully executed residential annexation, as well as active support
of commercial growth along the U.S. 74-76/N.C. 133 traffic corridor.
1
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E. EXISTING LAND USE
1. General Land Use Patterns
As stated in the 1989 Land Use Plan, Belville has unusual land use patterns and conditions for
an eastern North Carolina municipality. The town's residential land usage is limited and not
well established. Normally residential land use will occupy the majority of a community's land
area. In Belville, residential land use occupies only 5.7% of the town's total land area. The
majority of the town's land area is in commercial service, retail trade, vacant land use, and
governmental land uses. Table 5 provides a summary of the 1989 and 1994 land use acreages.
The land uses are delineated on Map 2.
TABLE 5
Town of Belville
1989/1994 Land Use Acreages
1989
1994
Acreage
%
Acreage
%
Single -Family Residential
5.18
3.7
22.97
5.7
'
Multi -Family Residential
1.32
0.8
1.21
0.3
Commercial
17.05
11.1
36.61
9.0
Semi -Public
.54*
0.3
.45*
0.1
Vacant
23.88
15.2
21.78
5.4
'
Government
29.65*
19.3
128.67*
31.8
Right-of-way
15.93*
10.3
24.75*
6.1
Water
60.59*
39.3
168.82*
41.6
Totals
154.14
100.0
405.26
100.0
* Non -tax (revenue) producing area.
Source: Holland Consulting Planners
,
From 1989 to 1994, the town's total area increased by 251.12 acres. This was the result of a j
35.51 acre annexation in 1991, and the annexation to two areas in 1992 which contained a total
of 215.61 acres. Map 3 delineates the annexation areas. The largest increase in a land use
category resulting from annexations was in the water category which increased by 108.23 acres. '
The largest increase for a land area was the commercial category which increased by 19.56
acres.
I-13 '

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LEGEND
® SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
® MULTI -FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
® PUBLIC/SEMI-PUBLIC
VACANT
(� GOVERNMENT
TOWN OF BELVILLE
EXISTING LAND USE
MAP 2
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.
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BEC�CE
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400 00
LEGEND
AUGUST, 1991
JUNE, 1992
BELVILLE ANNEXATION
MAP 3
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.
0-4
tA
il"SWICK RIVER

' 2. Residential Land Use
' There are no concentrated areas of residential land use. The largest . single residential
-development is the six -unit Brunswick River Apartment Complex. There are only 15 standard
single-family frame built residential units. In addition, there are 16 mobile homes. Of that
' total, three of the mobile homes should be considered dilapidated and five should be classified
as moderately deteriorated. There was a decrease in the number of mobile homes from 27 in
1989 to 16 in 1994. Many of the mobile homes which were removed from Belville were either
moderately deteriorated or dilapidated. Thus, the town's overall housing conditions improved
from 1989 to 1994. Table 6 provides a comparative analysis of housing conditions in 1989 and
' 1994.
Table 6
' Town of Belville
Housing Conditions, 1989/1994
1989 a of Total 1994 % of Total
Minor non -need frame single-family 4 9 15 41
Minor non -need multi -family 11 23 0
Minor non -need frame duplex 4 9 4* 11
Severely deteriorated frame 1 2 2 5
Minor non -need mobile home 15 32 8 21
' Moderately deteriorated mobile home 11 23 5 14
Dilapidated mobile home 1 2 3 8
Total 47 100 37 100
*Two duplex units.
-� While dwelling units were added as the result of annexations between 1989 and 1994, the total
number of dwelling units declined. Some multi -family units were converted to institutional and
business uses in addition to the decline in the number of mobile homes. From 1989 to 1994,
the percentage of minor non -need frame dwelling units remained at 41 %. However, the
composition changed with single-family dwelling units becoming the primary minor non -need
' frame single-family dwelling unit. The number of deteriorated and dilapidated dwelling units
remained at 27%.
In 1989, there was not any vacant, privately -owned property which was suitable for residential
development. Between 1989 and 1994, no new residential construction occurred. The increase
in the number of dwelling units was the result of the annexation of some residential properties.
A total of 21.78 acres of vacant land is located in the town. However, the land may not be
suitable for residential development because of terrain and its location adjacent to N.C. Highway
133. The town does not have a building inspector. Inspections of new construction are provided
' through contract with the Brunswick County Inspections Department. A major residential land

use concern continues to be the annexation of residential areas and the development of a large
population base.
3. Commercial Land Use
Belville's commercial development focuses on the intersection of S.R. 1551 and N.C. 133 and
extends east along S.R. 1551. The commercial development is primarily transient oriented.
Belville's population base is insufficient to independently support a commercial area.
The acreage totals in Table 5 are misleading because most of the commercial development is on
large lots. The total acreage may suggest more individual businesses than actually exist in
Belville. Since 1989, a trucking company, a modular home sales business, a neon light
fabricator, and a karate school have located in Belville.
The quality of the commercial development continues to be poor. Many buildings are
deteriorating. Excessive signage exists. The town is highly visible from U.S. 74/76. As stated
in the 1989 plan, the existing development does not present the image desired by the town.
4. Government Land Use
Government land use is the largest land use category in Belville. The governmental uses
include: Belville Municipal Offices, the Alcohol Beverages Control Store, the North Carolina
Department of Transportation, and the North Carolina State Ports Authority. The Department
of Transportation property is being utilized as a maintenance/material storage yard and the State
Ports property is vacant. These uses do not have a substantial impact on land uses within the
town. However, the town does derive substantial tax revenue from the operation of the "ABC"
store. This continues to be the largest source of income for the town and may serve to support
many land use -related improvements such as the construction of sewer collection system. In
January 1993, the Town of Belville leased 11 acres of land from the North Carolina Department
of Transportation for 25 years for development of the John D. Long Riverfront Park.
Development of a riverfront park was recommended by the 1989 Land Use Plan. The town
received a FY1993 Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Grant of $60,000, which was
matched by $65,000 in Brunswick County funds and $66,000 in North Carolina Wildlife
Commission funds for construction of a boat ramp. In addition to the boat ramp, the park plans
included: restrooms, picnic shelters, playground, tennis courts, volley ball court, and shuffle
board/horseshoes. Brunswick County is responsible for construction and maintenance of the
park. Completion of the park was expected in 1995.
5. Industrial Land Use
Belville does not have any industrial development nor is there any land within the town which
is suited for industrial development. The town acquired control of a sewage treatment plant in
1994 (see sewer section, page I-20). However, a sewer collection system did not exist. A
sewer system would support industrial development. However, the lack of vacant land suitable
for industrial development continues to be an obstacle. Any significant industrial development
will have to occur in areas adjacent to town which may be annexed.
I-17

' 6. Semi -Public Land Use
A church comprises the only parcel of semi-public land use in Belville.
7. Vacant Land
Belville's vacant land use is the sixth largest single land use category. Most of the vacant land
is in CAMA or what appears to be 404 wetland areas. Approximately one-third of the vacant
land appears to be suitable for development. Large vacant areas are controlled by the North
Carolina State Ports and the North Carolina Department of Transportation. These areas are
' primarily located along the Brunswick River and are included in the government land use
category. These areas are included in the government land use category in Table 6. The
majority of the vacant land fronts on N.C. 133 and Secondary Road 1551 east of N.C. 133.
8. Land Use Summary
Belville's largest single surface area is comprised of water and marsh, 168.82 acres. Because
of this, the town should be sensitive to environmental issues. Careful attention should be paid
to the development of the town's shoreline. This concern was cited in the 1989 Land Use Plan.
As discussed under government land use, the town has secured, through a lease, 11 acres of land
adjacent to the Brunswick River for development of a park.
The random mixture of land uses and the lack of a central sewer system are the two most
important land use issues. As indicated on Map 2, the commercial, residential, and government
land uses are all intermixed. Since the preparation of the 1989 land use plan, the random
location of mobile homes throughout the town has significantly decreased, and the overall quality
of housing has significantly improved. However, no separation of land uses has been
accomplished. Approximately 14% of the town's land area remains vacant. Without the
establishment of land use controls, the intermixing of conflicting land uses will continue.
The town's major land use problems are summarized as follows:
-- Incompatible mixture of land uses.
-- Lack of local land use controls/ordinances.
-- Approximately 22 % of the town's total housing stock is substandard mobile
homes.
-- Lack of housing related codes/ordinances.
-- Excessive signage.
-- A total of approximately 304 acres, or 75 % of the town's area, is in non -revenue
producing use or area.
-- Commercial development is primarily "strip" commercial type of development.
-- The appearance/quality of commercial development is declining.
-- There are not any areas of the town suited to stable long-term residential
development.
-- Several areas of the town adjacent to the Brunswick River which have the greatest
potential for, development are owned by the State of North Carolina.
-- The town is not served by a central sewer system.
I-18

While the Town of Belville has numerous land use problems, the town also has some distinct
advantages and qualities. They are summarized as follows:
-- Belville has the ability to adopt land use regulations and control development.
-- Belville is located at the intersection of two major traffic arteries, N.C. 133 and
U.S. 74/76. These are the major traffic routes into northern Brunswick County.
-- Approximately 22 acres of vacant land exist which can be developed to the town's
advantage with proper planning and land use control.
-- The town has a good system of roads which are maintained by the State of North
Carolina.
- The town is served by a central potable water supply.
-- The town has good visibility of the Brunswick River and Eagle Island. This
offers an outstanding vista and attractive setting along the town's shoreline.
-- The town acquired ownership of a sewage treatment plant in 1993. However,
there was not a waste collection system.
9. Current Plans, Policies, and Re lgu ations
Except for the Brunswick County Building Code and the 1989 Belville Land Use Plan, the Town
of Belville is not regulated by any land use related plans, ordinances, or codes. The Building
Code applies to new construction and does not affect existing structures. This lack of control
has led to the development of many of the town's existing land use problems. Presently, the
town has limited administrative capability. The only employee is a part-time Town Clerk. The
Town Board consists of a mayor and three commissioners. The town contracts with Brunswick
County for building code enforcement. This land use plan is an updated of the town's initial
land use plan which was prepared in 1989.
10. Effectiveness of the 1989 Land Use Plan and Policies
The Town of Belville has been successful in implementing the 1989 Land Use Plan policies.
Specifically, the town has accomplished the following:
-- Pursued an aggressive annexation policy, having accomplished the annexation of
three areas since 1989.
-- Established a riverfront park adjacent to the Brunswick River on property leased
from the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
-- Acquired ownership of a sewage treatment plant.
-- Reduced the number of substandard mobile homes.
I-19

1
' All of these actions are important to Belville's long-term growth and stability. Most
importantly, Belville has taken a significant step towards solving its most serious problem, the
lack of a central sewage collection and treatment system.
F. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: PUBLIC FACILITIES
' 1. Water Supply
' Belville's central water supply is provided by the Leland Sanitary District.* In April 1994, the
District served approximately 108 commercial and 1,195 residential customers. (Mobile home
parks were counted as a single customer.) Service was provided in Belville to seven commercial
and approximately 32 residential customers. The system supplies an average 12.5 million
gallons of water per month.
' The District's water supply is purchased from Brunswick County which is furnished water by
the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority. The Authority's water is obtained from an
intake plant located on the Cape Fear River above Lock No. 1. The waters of the Cape Fear
River at that location are classified as suitable for water supply by the State of North Carolina.
The lands along the Cape Fear River are largely undeveloped and contain extensive wetland
areas. Future problems with the quality of the water supply are not anticipated.
2. Sewage Disposal
In February 1994, Belville assumed ownership of a 400,000 gallon per day capacity sewage
treatment plant located on Chappell Loop Road west of Belville. The plant is permitted by the
Division of Environmental Management with expansion capacity to add an additional 400,000
' . gallons per day. The plant was constructed in the early 1990's by the developers of a 2,500 acre
residential development located southwest of Belville. The developers agreed to build the plant
and give it to the town if Belville would operate the plant and reserve approximately 370,000
' gallons per day for the developer's property. Belville can satisfy its needs with the remaining
30,000 gallons. The transfer of ownership of the treatment plant to Belville was delayed
' pending the outcome of a law suit filed by a subcontractor against the developers.
In the spring of 1994, Belville was pursuing an $800,000 grant to finance the construction of
' a sewer collection system. In addition, the town was conducting discussions with the towns of
Leland and Navassa to consider establishment of a regional sewer system. Both Leland and
Navassa are in need of central sewer service. A joint sewer advisory committee has been
established. However, Belville continued to maintain control of the facility.
*Service area generally extends .east on N.C. 133 to Jackey's Creek (River Craft Estates) and along
Jackey's Creek to U.S. 17, south on U.S. 17 to the Sunny Point Railroad, along the Sunny Point Railroad
to a line 500 feet north of U.S. 74/76 and following said line 500 feet west of Mount Misery Road and
along said line to East Brook Road to the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad, southeast along the railroad to
the Brunswick River and along the Brunswick River to Jackey's Creek. The sanitary district serves bulk
I
to the Town of Navassa and provides water to the Brunswick Cove Nursing Home.
1 I-20

3. Solid Waste
Solid waste collection is provided through contract with Waste Industries, Inc. of Wilmington.
A total of 16 dumpsters (seven 8 cubic yard and nine 4 cubic yard) are located throughout the
town. The dumpsters are emptied once per week. Door-to-door collection is not provided.
While dumpsters are intended for residential usage, the town's businesses also utilize the
dumpsters. The town produces an average of 17.97 tons of solid waste per month. The waste
is disposed of at the Brunswick County Landfill. The total annual cost for waste disposal is
$8,200.
Significant residential expansion of the town through annexation would require establishment of
a door-to-door collection system. The town does not expect to operate its own solid waste
collection program within the planning period.
4. ' Transportation
Belville is exposed to high volumes of traffic. In 1993, U.S. 74/76 south of Belville had an
average daily traffic count (ADT) of 28,200 vehicles; while U.S. 74/76 immediately north of
the Brunswick River has an ADT of 46,200 vehicles. N.C. 133 south of the U.S. 74/76
interchange has an ADT of 6,900 vehicles. These counts are expected to increase during the
planning period. The N.C. Department of Transportation forecast an ADT of 66,300 for U.S.
74/76 north of N.C. 133 interchange by the year 2010, an increase of 20,100 ADT, or 44%
over 1994, and a 2010 ADT of 14,500 for N.C. 133 south of U.S. 74/76, an increase of 7,600,
or 110 % over 1994.
As development occursalong the N.C. 133 corridor between Belville and Southport, it is
anticipated that congestion will increase. The town should monitor traffic increase during the
.planning period. The current county thoroughfare plan does not recommend any improvements
in Belville. However, improvements to the regional highway system are recommended which
would improve Belville's access to areas North of the Cape Fear River.
5. Schools
Belville is served by the Brunswick County School System. In 1994, there were approximately
ten school -age children residing within the town. The following schools provide service:
School
Grades
Enrollment*
Design
Cgpacily
Capaci1y
Level
Lincoln Primary School
K-3
802
600
34% over
Leland Middle School
4-8
977
900
9 % over
North Brunswick High School
9-12
701
640
10% over
* 3/23/94
I-21

' In the spring of 1994 a new K-5 grade level school was planned for location in Belville on
P g
N.C.133 opposite the proposed John D. Long riverfront park. This facility will have an
' enrollment ca acity of 650 and supplement the Lincoln Primary School. Following the opening
of the new stool in 1995, Lincoln Primary School will become a K-5 facility, and the Leland
Middle School will become a 6-8 grade facility.
6. Recreation
As discussed under government land use, the Town of Belville has secured the control of 11
acres located adjacent to the Brunswick River for development of the John D. Long Riverfront
Park. The facility will be developed with Brunswick County, Town of Belville, North Carolina
' Wildlife Commission and Division of Coastal Management funding. Based on preliminary
estimates, the total cost of park improvements will be $191,000. The facility will benefit the
' residents of both Belville and Northern Brunswick County.
7. Other Facilities
The only other facility actually under operation by the town in 1994 was the Belville Municipal
Building. This is a small office located in the Belville ABC store building and is located on
aS.R. 1551. The town does not offer police, building inspection, or zoning and subdivision
services. These services, except for zoning, are provided by Brunswick County. The town
owns a 400,000 gpd sewage treatment plant. However, operation of the.. plant had not begun in
' 1994. The town anticipated constructing a central sewer collection system in 1995.
8. Medical Services
There are no doctors or medical services located within the Town of Belville. However, ample
medical services ate available from both Brunswick and New Hanover County facilities. The
' Brunswick County hospital is located north of Supply, approximately 23 miles south of Belville.
More accessible medical service may be obtained in Wilmington through either the Cape Fear
Memorial Hospital (a private facility) or the New Hanover Regional Medical Center (a public
facility). These services are both within 10-12 minutes driving time from Belville. In 1994,
the town was working with Brunswick County to locate an EMS unit on one acre of land
adjacent to the John D. Long Park.
'
9. Emergency r encv and Protective Services
_
' The Town of Belville is served by both the Leland and the Navassa Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Departments. For this service, the town makes annual contributions to both departments. This
service is considered adequate to serve both the Town of Belville and adjacent developed areas.
' The Brunswick County Sheriff's Department provides police protection.
10. Electrical Distribution
Electricity is provided to Belville from Carolina Power and Light. The town has never
' experienced a major electrical shortage.
' I-22

G. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY
1. Soils
Except for approximately 20% "muck" soils in wetland and marsh areas along Belville's
shoreline, the majority of Belville's developed areas are located on Pactolus soils. These soils
are wet, with limitations for septic tank usage and drainage. Belville has historically had a
problem with septic tank operation and installation of new septic systems because of poor soil
suitability. The poor soil conditions are undoubtedly a physical limitation to development, and
will have a significant impact on local planning issues including wastewater treatment,
groundwater, and surface water quality, and any type of drainage or roadway improvements
undertaken by the town. The primarily undeveloped areas which were annexed in 1991 and
1992 are almost equally divided between Baymeade (BDC) and Muckalee (MK) soils. The
Muckalee soils are located along creek bottoms leading to the Brunswick River and have
flooding and severe wetness. The Baymeade soils are located along the higher river bluff areas
east of N.C. 133 and have only moderate wetness. Some limited areas of Foreston (FO) soils
are located west of N.C. 133 and south of Belville's developed area. These soils are generally
good with only slight limitations for construction.
2. Water Resources
The adjacent waters of the Brunswick River do not serve as a water supply. However, the river
should be protected as a major scenic and recreational resource. The river's potential as an
economic resource should not be underestimated. In addition, Eagle Island lies across the river
from Belville. This is an environmentally significant area which should be protected as a
natural, scenic and wildlife preserve area.
3. Natural Hazard Areas
Flood Hazard Area: The Town of Belville does not participate in the Federal Emergency
Management National Flood Insurance Program. Therefore, Flood Insurance Rate Maps
establishing the location of the 100-year flood plain within Belville do not exist. Brunswick
County does participate in the flood insurance program. The 100-year flood elevation in the
vicinity of Belville is 10 feet above mean sea level. This elevation would place approximately
one-half of Belville within the 100-year flood plain. However, most of that area is either vacant
or sparsely developed. To avoid confusion, a composite hazards map was not provided with an
estimated/approximate flood hazard area boundary.
Because of the minimal flood hazard, the town has elected not to pursue participation in the
National Flood Insurance Program.
I-23

' Increasing water level is a concern throughout the coastal areas. It is estimated that by the year
2000, the North Carolina water level will have risen by one to three inches, and from two to six
inches by the year 2025. * The town's elevation rises rapidly from the Brunswick River, and
a six-inch rise in water level would leave much of the town above flood and water level.
However, much shoreline wetland area could be destroyed and erosion of shoreline could
become a problem.
4. Fragile Areas
' In coastal North Carolina fragile areas are considered to include coastal wetlands, ocean hazard
areas, 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, areas of excessive slope, areas of excessive erosion, scenic
' points, archaeological sites, historical sites, and 404 wetlands. Within the Belville area, the
most notable fragile area is the adjacent Eagle Island. This is a natural marsh area which serves
as a wildlife habitat. The island supports one of the largest populations of alligators in any
' North Carolina river. ** The area also serves as a scenic point. If the town adopts zoning,
protection could be extended to the area through extraterritorial jurisdiction. Other fragile areas
include: public trust waters, estuarine shoreline, and 404 wetlands. The waters of the Cape
Fear and Brunswick Rivers are classified as W.S. III by the State of North Carolina. This is
the lowest classification which a potable water supply can receive.
' The town's shoreline is an estuarine shoreline area. While a non -ocean shoreline, the area is
vulnerable to erosion and flooding. Belville should support the CAMA development permit
system through the adoption of a zoning ordinance.
' There are limited areas along both sides of N.C. 133 which have the potential to be classified
as 404 wetland areas. Development of these areas would be under the jurisdiction of the U.S.
I- Army Corps of Engineers.
There is only one known archaeological or historic site located within or adjacent to Belville.
During an archaeological survey of the John D. Long Park site conducted in 1975, seven sites
were discovered. Only one of the sites was determined to warrant further archaeological
investigation. A survey conducted by the Office of State Archaeology found that the site had
been extensively cleared and graded, destroying the intact features. Any historically significant
artifacts in the Brunswick River are believed to have been destroyed as a result of heavy
dredging in the '50s and '60s.***
* Conservative estimate of sea level rise based on best available data.
** Source: 1987 Brunswick County Land Use Plan.
' ***N.C. Division of Archives & History, Underwater Archaeology Branch.
I-24

The following provides general definitions of Belville's fragile areas: '
a) 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 water level as the case may be, except privately -owned lakes to which the
public has no right to access; all water in artificially created bodies of water containing
significant public fishing resources or other public resources which are accessible to the
public by navigation from bodies of water in which the public has rights of navigation;
and all waters in artificially created bodies of water in which the public has acquired
rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other means. '
b) Estuarine Shorelines
Estuarine shorelines are those non -ocean shorelines that are especially vulnerable to
erosion, flooding, or other adverse effects of wind and water. They are intimately
connected to the estuary. Estuarine shorelines extend from the mean high water level or '
normal water level along the.estuaries, sounds, bays, and brackish waters for a distance
of 75 feed landward. Development within the estuarine shorelines influences the quality
of estuarine life and is subject to the damaging processes of shorefront erosion and '
flooding.
c) Estuarine Waters I
Estuarine waters are generally those waters .found in estuaries, sounds, 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 Belville.
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.
d) Coastal Wetlands ,
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.
These areas must contain at least one, but not necessarily all of the following marsh plant
species: Cordgrass, Black Needlerush, Glasswort, Salt Grass, Sea Lavender, 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.
�7
L
I-25

l
e) 404 Wetlands
404 wetlands are areas covered by water or that 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. 404 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 and
receive a permit for such activities. The Wilmington office of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers has regulatory authority in Belville. While there may be scattered wetland
areas located within the town, the specific locations of wetlands areas may be determined
through on -site analysis. It should be noted that in some Areas of Environmental
Concern, both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the regulatory requirements of the
Coastal Area Management Act may have overlapping jurisdiction. Simultaneous to the
' preparation of this plan, amendments to the federal definition of wetlands were being
considered which could reduce the areas afforded protection under the wetlands
legislation.
5. Man-made Hazards
' There are no significant man-made hazards within Belville. Some underground fuel storage
tanks exist. However, 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 in coming years. Careful planning will ensure man-
made hazards will not impact future development within Belville. (There is the possibility of
s V contamination of the river from the nearby Port of Wilmington in the event of a large oil or
t chemical spill. Also, the proximity of a major highway poses the threat of environmental
damage in the event of an accident involving the transportation of hazardous materials.)
' 6. Slopes in Excess of 12%
There are some limited areas scattered along the Brunswick River which have slopes in excess
' of 12%. These areas are all located on publicly owned property and should not present an
obstacle to private development.
7. Excessive Erosion Areas
There are no excessive erosion areas located in Belville.
8. Areas of Resource Potential
' a) Agricultural and Forest Lands
' There are no prime agricultural lands or commercially productive forest lands located
within Belville.
I-26

b) Public Parks
Following completion of the John D. Long Riverfront Park, the Town of Belville will
have a public park which will provide significant recreational opportunities to Northern
Brunswick County. This park will aid in the protection of the Brunswick River shoreline
and provide public access to significant areas of environmental concern such as Eagle
Island. The facility should be protected through appropriate land use controls.
I-27

SECTION II:
PROJECTED LAND DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS

SECTION II: PROJECTED LAND DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS
A. PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT
1. Demographic Trends
Table 7 provides the estimated population for Belville and other Brunswick County
municipalities through the year 2004. A population growth rate of 35.6 % through 2004 is
forecast for Brunswick County. However, the municipal growth rate of 50.0 % from 1980 to
1990 in Brunswick County was 18 % higher than the county growth rate of 42.5 % . Therefore,
a municipal growth rate of 42.0%, or 1.18 times the 1990-2004 county -wide growth rate of
36.5 %, has been used to project municipal growth from 1990-2004. It is assumed in Table 7
that all municipalities will grow at the same 42.0% rate from 1990-2004.
Table 7: Total Year Round Population Projections
Brunswick County, 1990-2004
Year Round Population
Municipality or Area
1990
1998
Bald Head Island
78
99
Belville
46
58
Boiling Spring Lakes
1,650
2,098
Bolivia
228
290
Calabash
1,210
1,538
Caswell
175
222
Holden Beach
626
796
Leland
1,801
2,290
Long Beach
3,816
4,851
Navassa
445
566
Ocean Isle Beach
523
665
Sandy Creek
243
309
Shallotte
1,073
1,364
Southport
2,369
3,012
Sunset Beach
311
395
Varnamtown
404
514
Yaupon Beach
734
933
2004
111
65
2,343
323
1,718
248
889
2,557
5,419
632
743
345
1,524
3,364
442
574
1,042
'
Total Municipalities
15,732 20,000 22,339
Unincorporated Areas
35,233 42,683 46,791
'
69,130
Total Brunswick County
50,965 62,683
'
Source: Holland Consulting Planners,
Inc.; N.C. State Data Center, Office of State Planning.
'
II-1

It is not expected that significant population growth will occur within the existing Belville
corporate limits. Therefore, the forecast growth rate of 42 % may be slightly high. However,
substantial growth could occur through annexations both south and west of Belville.
The Old Towne residential subdivision, located immediately south of Belville, contains
approximately 450 residents. This estimate is based on the 1990 Brunswick County average
household size and a windshield count of dwelling units by the Old Towne Property Owners
Association. Such an annexation would propel Belville to the tenth largest Brunswick County
municipality. An increase of this magnitude would represent a 1,078% growth rate and place
an entirely new level of demands on Belville for the provision of services. All annexation
actions of large residential areas should be preceded by a detailed annexation study which
carefully assesses the demand for services and the cost of service delivery.
Seasonal population will have a significant impact on population growth in Brunswick County,
especially in the beach communities. The seasonal population growth will not have an impact
on Belville's population. However, the seasonal population will increase transient traffic
traveling through Belville on N.C. 133 to reach the beach communities. This traffic will
stimulate strip commercialization if proper land use controls are not imposed.
Detailed economic forecasts are not available for Belville. Forecasts for Brunswick County may
be relied upon to provide a general indication of the economic activity which may be expected.
Table 8 provides some selected demographic and economic data for the United States,
Southeastern United States, and Brunswick County through the year 2015.
Table 8
Selected Demographic and Economic Data to 2015
United States, Southeast Region and Brunswick County
Brunswick County
Total Population Average Annual Rate of Growth Total Employment Average Annual Rate of Growth
1970-1990: 3.76 % 1990-2015: 1.72 % 1970-1990: 4.54 % 1990-2015: 1.50 %
Manufacturing Employment as Percent of Total
1970: 20.7 % 1990: 12.9 % 2015: 9.5 %
Service Sector Employment as Percent of Total
1970: 8.6 % 1990: 14.7 % 2015: 14.1 %
Over 65 Population as Percent of Total Population
1970: 8.4 % 1990: 14.6 % 2015: 23.3 %
Southeast United States
Total Population Average Annual Rate of Growth
1970-1990: 1.51% 1990-2015: 1.16%
Manufacturing Employment as Percent of Total
1970: 21.0 % 1990: 14.9 % 2015: 13.9 %
Service Sector Employment as Percent of Total
1970: 17.8 % 1990: 24.8 % 2015: 27.5 %
Total Employment Average Annual Rate of Growth
1970-1990: 2.67 % 1990-2015: 0.97 %
Over 65 Population as Percent of Total Population
1970: 9.9 % 1990: 13.3 % 2015: 15.7 %
II-2

Brunswick County. The park should protect the Brunswick River shoreline and provide public
access to large natural resource areas.
Other community facilities needs/concerns include:
-- Continued operation of the Brunswick County ABC store in Belville.
-- Construction of an adequate storm drainage system as the town develops.
-- Expansion of town facilities and services as areas are annexed, including an
increase in the sewage treatment plant's capacity.
4. Redevelopment Issues
There are two primary redevelopment issues facing the town. First, deteriorating commercial
and residential structures should be renovated or removed. This includes the removal of
dilapidated mobile homes. The second issue is that of reconstruction following a major storm.
Such a storm would damage buildings, signs, overhead utilities, and street lighting. A particular
concern should be damage to mobile homes. In 1994, mobile homes comprised approximately
43 percent of the town's total housing stock. A category three or stronger storm would most
likely destroy or substantially damage the majority of the town's mobile home housing stock.
Regulations governing where and how mobile homes may be located should be developed.
5. Intergovernmental Coordination and Implementation
This plan was reviewed by the Brunswick County Planning Department prior to adoption by the
town and subsequent certification by the Coastal Resources Commission. This review was
provided to help ensure consistency of this plan with Brunswick County's planning efforts.
Intergovernmental coordination and 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 Belville Board
of Commissioners will be responsible for ensuring adequate coordination with Brunswick County
and other government entities as may be required.
II-4

SECTION III: LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM

SECTION III: TOWN OF BELVILLE LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
tThe 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 the town and provide a framework to be utilized by the Town of Belville to
' identify future land uses.
' The 15A NCAC 7B requirements provide for the following land classifications: developed,
urban transition, limited transition, community, rural, rural with services, and conservation.
Each applicable land classification must be represented on land classification map.
' The following land classifications are shown on the Land Classification Map, Map 4, and will
apply in Belville:
Developed areas included in the developed land classification are currently urban in
character, with no or minimal undeveloped land remaining. Municipal types of services,
with the exception of central water and sewer service, are in place or are expected to be
provided within the next five to ten years. Land uses include residential, commercial,
public/semi-public, and other urban land uses at the following densities which are
prescribed by 15A NCAC 7B:
• 500 dwelling units per square mile, or
' • three dwelling units per acre, or
• where a majority of lots are 15,000 square feet or less.
' Conservation The following areas of environmental concern and "404" wetlands (not
an area of environmental concern) are included in the conservation classification:
Coastal Wetlands: This classification includes all areas of 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. Development
' which meets the minimum use standards of 15A NCAC 7H and the policies contained
in this plan shall be allowed in areas classified as coastal wetlands.
Estuarine Shoreline: All areas lying 0-75 feet landward of the mean high water level
of estuarine 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 consistent with the policies contained in this plan and the 15A NCAC 7H
minimum use standards shall be allowed in estuarine shoreline areas.
Estuarine and Public Trust Waters: All public trust areas and estuarine waters are
included in this classification. All waters in Belville's planning jurisdiction are classified
as estuarine waters as described by 15A NCAC 711.0206 or public trust areas as
described by 15A NCAC 7H.0207. Uses permitted by the policies contained in this plan
and 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards shall be allowed. The policies dealing with
floating structures and signs are more restrictive than the 15A NCAC 7H; see floating
home policies, page IV-4, and marine resource areas policies, page IV-6.
III-1

404 Wetlands: This classification includes areas of 404 wetlands which in
wetlands definition contained in Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Onl
consistent with the policy statements section of this plan will be allowed. Thes
are not delineated on the Land Classification Map. Specific locations must be dete
in the field by representatives of the Wilmington office of the U.S. Army C
Engineers. The town concurs with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' standa
does not intend to develop more restrictive standards.
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III-2
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TOWN OF BELVILLE
LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP
MAP 4
LEGEND
WATER AREAS
DEVELOPED
All land areas which are not Conservation areas
are classified Developed.
CONSERVATION
The Conservation classification includes coastal
wetlands, estuarine shorelines, estuarine and
public trust waters, and 404 wetlands. Because
of map scale, the Conservation areas cannot be
accurately mapped. Precise locations must be
determined in the field.
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.
LE To.
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i
r

SECTION IV: BELVILLE POLICY STATEMENTS

' SECTION IV: BELVILLE POLICY STATEMENTS
This section of the plan provides policies which will address growth management and protection
of Belville's environment. The policies are based on the objectives of the citizens of Belville
and satisfy the objectives of the Coastal Resources Commission.
As a minimum, the Coastal Resources Commission requires the town's and all local
governments' policies to address the following areas of concern:
L _= Resource Protection
Resource Production and Management
-- Economic and Community Development
Continuing Public Participation
Storm Hazard Mitigation
It is emphasized that the policy statements are extremely important and have a day-to-day impact
on individual citizens within Belville's planning jurisdiction. Areas in which the statements have
an impact include:
-- 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.
Based on the analysis of existing conditions and trends, and discussion with the town's Board
of Commissioners, the policies outlined in the following section have been formulated to provide
a guide for advising and regulating development of available land resources in Belville
throughout the current planning period, i.e., 2000. Alternative polices which were considered,
but not adopted, are provided in Appendix I.
A. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS
1. Physical Limitations
Soils
To mitigate existing septic tank problems and other restrictions on development posed by soil
limitations, Belville will:
(a) Support the Brunswick County Health Department for all matters relating to
septic tank installation/replacement in areas with soils restrictions.
i
I IV-1

(b) Coordinate all development activity with appropriate county and state regulatory
personnel
(c) Cooperate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the regulation/enforcement '
of the 404 wetlands permit process.
Flood Hazard Areas
(a) Flooding is not a serious problem in Belville and the town will not apply for
participation in the National Flood Insurance Program or adopt floodplain zoning.
Groundwater/Protection of Potable Water Supplies
(a) Belville will conserve its surfcial* groundwater resources by supporting CAMA
and N.C. Division of Environmental Management stormwater runoff regulations,
and by coordinating local development activities involving chemical storage or
underground storage tank installation/abandonment with Brunswick County
Emergency Management personnel and the Groundwater Section of the . North
Carolina Division of Environmental Management.
(b) Belville supports Brunswick County's efforts to expand its public water supply
system and protection of groundwater quality through improvements in the public
water supply system; control to toxic industrial and septic effluent discharges into
groundwater supplies; and effective stormwater management and erosion/
sedimentation controls.
Man-made Hazards
(a) Belville will support the technical requirements and state program approval for
underground storage tanks (40 CFR, Parts 280 and 281), until such time as the
state Division of Environmental Management is authorized to regulate
underground storage tanks under North Carolina state law.
(b) The town opposes the temporary or permanent storage or disposal of any toxic
wastes within its planning jurisdiction.
(c) The town will coordinate and maintain contact with the Brunswick County
Emergency Management Office to ensure safe preparation and evacuation in the
event of a disaster at the CP&L nuclear power plant.
(d) Belville is opposed to the establishment of toxic waste dump sites within
Brunswick County or operation of incineration facilities for hazardous wastes.
*Waters located just below ground surface.
IV-2

' Stormwater Runoff
(a) Belville recognizes the value of water quality maintenance to the protection of
fragile areas and to the provision of clear water for recreational purposes. The
town will support state regulations relating to stormwater runoff resulting from
development (Stormwater Disposal Policy 15NCAC2H.001-.1003).
(b) Belville will adopt a zoning ordinance which will include regulations to limit the
stormwater runoff associated with development.
Solid Waste
(a) Belville supports Brunswick County's efforts to complete a site selection study for
the location of a new landfill site.
(b) Belville will support local and expanded county efforts to educate people and
businesses on waste reduction and recycling.
(c) Belville will continue to provide solid waste collection through contracts with
private vendors.
Natural and Cultural Resources
' Belville shoreline is situated in an area rich in history and artifacts. However, during the
•The e ry g
'40s, much of the Brunswick River bottom and shoreline was substantially disturbed as a result
of dredging undertaken to allow for the storing/anchorage of "mothballed" World War II
concrete naval vessels on the Brunswick River. No archaeological sites have been recorded
within the Town limits. There are .no historically significant structures located within the town.
However, an area along the west shore of the Brunswick River where old U.S. 17 ends was the
' site of Belvedere Plantation and later the home of one of North Carolina's governors. Much
of Eagle Island was used for plantation rice fields.
Other than the wetland and shoreline areas, there are no significant fragile and natural areas
within the Town of Belville. However, Eagle Island is located along the Brunswick River
opposite the town. The Island is considered an important fragile area and is so recognized by
the New Hanover County and Brunswick County Land Use Plans. The town will discourage
any activities which may be damaging to Eagle Island's environmental quality.
1
*Source: N.C. Division of Archives & History; Underwater Archaeology Branch.
IV-3

The town will support the following policies:
(a) Belville will advise the N.C. Division of Archives and History of all county and
town major land disturbing public works projects, to ensure the identification and
preservation of significant archaeological sites.
(b) The town will support the preservation/protection of Eagle Island.
Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
There are no industrial areas within or adjacent to the Town of Belville. The town will not
support the introduction of any industry producing toxic waste or man-made hazards. The town
will consider the location of industries within its jurisdiction on a case -by -case basis in areas
classified as transition or developed. However, industrial development of conservation classed
lands along the Brunswick River will not be supported or encouraged. This policy should be
supported through the adoption of a local zoning ordinance.
2. Miscellaneous Resource Protection
Package Treatment Plant Use
The Town of Belville will pursue development of a central sewage collection system to connect
to its sewage treatment plant. Until the collection system is complete and the treatment plant
is functional, Belville will support the construction of package treatment plants which are
approved and permitted by the State Division of Environmental Management and by the
Brunswick County Health Department/Division of Health Services. If any package plants are
approved, Belville supports 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 a public system becomes available.
Marina and Floating Home Development
Belville will enforce the following policies to govern floating homes and both open water and
upland marina development. Marinas are considered to be any publicly or privately owned dock
constructed to accommodate more than ten boats, as defined by 15ANCAC7H.208 (b) (5).
(a) The Town of Belville will encourage responsible open water marina/dock facility
development; not to exceed 20 total slips for boats up to 35' . Marinas may
include dry stacking facilities for boats up to 25' . Dry stack facilities shall not
provide space for more than 100 boats. The town opposes the construction of
upland marinas.
(b) Belville supports the restriction of floating structures in all 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
IV-4

is primarily immobile and out of navigation or which functions substantially as
a land structure while moored or docked on waters within town jurisdiction.
Floating structures shall not be used commercially or permanently inhabited. The
town will develop and adopt an ordinance designed to enforce this policy. The
ordinance should set a specific time limit for the location of those structures.
(c) The Town of Belville will support navigation improvements on the Brunswick
, River for recreational purposes.
Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands
There are no sound or estuarine islands located within Belville's planning jurisdiction.
However, the town objects to any development of Eagle Island, which is adjacent to the town's
jurisdiction.
Coastal Wetlands
The Town of Belville supports the construction of those water dependent structures within
coastal wetlands which meet the 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards.
Estuarine Shoreline
y: The Town of Belville will support construction within the estuarine shoreline areas which meets
the 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards.
Bulkhead Construction
Belville does,not oppose the construction of bulkheads along estuarine shorelines which meet
15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards.
Sea Level Rise
(a) Most of Belville's elevation, including most developed areas, is well above the
100-year floodplain and existing estuarine and public trust waters elevation..
However, some limited areas of Belville's shoreline could be flooded as a result
of long term sea level rise. Belville will continuously monitor sea level rise and
revise as necessary all local building and land use related ordinances to establish
setback standards, long-term land use plans, density controls, and building
designs which will respond to the effects of sea level rise.
(b) Belville will allow the construction of bulkheads along estuarine shorelines which
satisfy 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards to protect structures and property
from rising water levels.
IV-5

B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT
O AND MANAG NT POLICIES
Recreation Resources r
(a) Belville will develop and protect the John D. Long Riverfront Park. State,
federal, and local funds will be utilized for park development.
(b) Belville will protect the John D. Long Riverfront Park from encroachment from
conflicting land uses. This may, in part, be accomplished through the adoption
of a town wide zoning ordinance.
(c) Except for 404 wetland areas, the Town of Belville shall consider all conservation
areas to be valuable recreational resources.
Off -Road Vehicles
The use of off -road vehicles is not an issue for Belville. However, the use of off -road vehicles
on private property is acceptable only in non -shoreline areas.
Productive Agricultural Lands
Belville does not have any agricultural production. There is some limited agricultural production
adjacent to the western and southern sections of town. In the future development of the town,
the impact of agriculture will be insignificant.
The Town of Belville will adopt a zoning ordinance. Establishment of an extraterritorial
jurisdiction ; area will be closely coordinated with Brunswick County. Adoption of a zoning
ordinance will provide density control and may afford some protection to productive agricultural
lands.
Productive Forest Lands
There are no commercial forest lands in Belville. However, the town does support commercial
forestry as a major natural and economic resource in Brunswick County.
Mining Resource Areas
The Town of Belville does not possess mineable resources such as peat or phosphate. However,
the town opposes any mining activities within Brunswick County which might lower the water
table or otherwise adversely affect the groundwater supply.
Marine Resource Areas. Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
The Town of Belville has adopted policies in its land use plan which support the environmental
protection of its shoreline and estuarine waters. This approach is believed to be supportive of
commercial and recreational fisheries. In addition, the town supports the Brunswick County
Land Use Plan policy of calling for better fisheries management and enforcement in coastal waters.
IV-6

Aquaculture Activities
iAquaculture
is considered the cultivation of aquatic plants and animals under controlled
conditions.
The following policy shall apply:
(a)
Belville does not oppose aquaculture in its planning jurisdiction when the activity
will not result in discharge of water which will degrade receiving waters in any
way.
Residential
Commercial, and Industrial Development Impacts on Resources
(a)
Belville is experiencing a substantial decline in both housing and population. In
addition, the town's commercial development has deteriorated and largely appears
to be unstable. The town supports all actions which may increase both its
residential and new commercial development. Additionally, the town supports
actions which will lead to improving housing quality.
'
(b)
The Town of Belville will pursue annexation of adjacent developed areas.
Annexation action is considered by the town to be crucial to survival of Belville.
as a viable municipality.
(c)
Belville will consider developing a redevelopment plan to improve and upgrade
its commercial property.
(d)
Belville will encourage all commercial and residential growth which is consistent
with state and local ordinances. A minimum housing code will be adopted to
establish standards for existing housing. This will be in addition to Brunswick
County enforcement of the State Building Code for New Construction.
(e)
In recognition of the importance of estuarine and public trust waters for the
fisheries and related industries, as well as aesthetics, recreation, and education,
Belville shall promote the conservation and quality of estuarine and public trust
waters. Residential. and commercial development which meets 15A NCAC 7H
minimum use standards and the policies contained in this plan will be allowed in
estuarine shoreline, estuarine water, and public trust areas. Marinas and
bulkheads shall be allowed when consistent with other policies contained in this
plan.
(f)
Belville opposes the construction of any signs, except for regulatory signs, in the
coastal wetlands; estuarine waters, and public trust areas. ,
'
IV-7

C. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICY STATEMENTS
Water Supply
There are no significant constraints to development or land development issues relating to the
town's potable water supply. The Brunswick County Water System and the Leland Sanitary
District should continue to provide adequate water supply throughout the planning period.
However, the town does support the following water supply issues:
-- Actions by both state and local governments to protect water quality within the
Cape Fear River Basin. Of particular concern are the construction of both point
and non -point discharge sources of industrial, agricultural, and domestic waste
along the Cape Fear River.
-- Belville supports actions by Brunswick County to regulate development which
may adversely affect groundwater supplies.
-- Belville supports actions by Brunswick County to protect all water supply wells
from groundwater pollution.
-- It is Belville's policy to conserve its surficial groundwater resources by
supporting CAMA and N.C. Division of Environmental Management stormwater
runoff regulations, and by coordinating local development activities involving
chemical storage or underground storage tank installation/abandonment with the
Groundwater Section of the North Carolina Division of Environmental
Management. The town encourages planning for an adequate long-range water
supply. In the planning process, Belville will cooperate with the county and area
municipalities to protect water resources. Public and private water conservation
efforts will be encouraged.
Sewer Systems
(a) The Town of Belville supports and will vigorously pursue the construction of a
central sewer collection system to connect to the town's sewage treatment plant.
Both state and federal funding assistance will be sought for construction of the
system. In addition, the town supports the start-up of its sewage treatment plant
at the earliest possible date.
(b) Belville will consider participation in a regional sewer system. However, the
town will retain control of its sewage treatment plant.
(c) The Town of Belville supports expansion of its sewage treatment plant to its
maximum permitted capacity.
IV-8

Stormwater
(a)
Belville 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.
Energy Facility
Siting and Development
(a)
Belville will review proposals for development or expansion of electric generating
plants within its vicinity on a case -by -case basis, judging the need for the facility
against all identified possible adverse impacts. The town reserves the right to
comment on the impacts of any energy facility, construction or expansion within
Brunswick County.
(b)
Belville requests and expects that CP&L will take all possible actions to ensure
the safe operation of the CP&L Brunswick Nuclear Power Plant.
(c)
Belville opposes any offshore drilling for either exploration for or production of
oil or gas. However, in the event that offshore drilling for oil or gas is
approved, Belville supports and requests full disclosure of development plans,
ell
with with mitigative measures that will be undertaken to prevent adverse impacts on
the environment, the infrastructure, and the social systems of Brunswick County.
The town also requests full disclosure of any adopted plans. Offshore drilling
and development of onshore support facilities in Brunswick County may have
severe costs for the town and county as well as advantages. The costs must be
borne by the company (or companies) engaged in offshore drilling and onshore
"`.
support facilities.
Redevelopment of Developed Areas
(a)
The major redevelopment need in Belville lies in the commercial areas. The town
supports commercial redevelopment. Businesses will be encouraged to improve
appearances and reduce signage.
(b)
The town will allow the reconstruction of any structures demolished by natural
disaster when the reconstruction complies with all applicable local, state, and
1
federal regulations.
(c)
The Town of Belville will adopt a zoning ordinance which includes measures to
reduce signage.
(d)
The Town of Belville will pursue state and federal grant funds to assist with
revitalization of commercial areas.
IV-9

Commitment to State and Federal Programs
The Town of Belville is receptive to State and Federal programs, particularly those which
provide improvements to the town. The town will continue to support fully such programs,
especially the following: North Carolina Department of Transportation road and bridge
improvement programs, the CAMA planning process and permitting programs, the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers regulatory and permitting efforts, the North Carolina Shoreline Access Grant
program, dredging and channel maintenance by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and federal
and state projects which provide efficient and safe boat access for commercial and sport fishing.
The town will attempt to identify and support those programs which are consistent with its stated
policies and notify the state and federal officials of any areas of land use policy incompatibility.
Assistance to Channel Maintenance
This issue does not currently apply to the Town of Belville. However, the town will encourage
channel improvements in the Brunswick River, but will not provide local funds for channel
improvements.
Types and Locations of Desired Industry
(a) The Town of Belville lacks any industrial development. There currently is not
any area of the town suited for industrial development. It is anticipated that
annexations will increase the town's options for industrial development and will
enhance the attractiveness of the community to industries. The town will pursue
the development of environmentally compatible industries. The development of
incompatible land use situations will be discouraged. The town will oppose the
development of any industry that will adversely impact on public, semi-public,
and residential areas or the preservation of conservation areas.
(b) The Town of Belville will pursue annexation of areas suitable for industrial
development.
(c) The town will adopt a zoning ordinance which may establish industrial areas
(d) The town will develop a central sewer collection system capable of servicing
industrial development.
Local Commitment to Service Provisions
(a) The Town of Belville is committed to obtaining a full complement of services for
its residents and businesses. The town believes the provision of central water
service by Brunswick. County is adequate. The provision of central sewer service
will be the number one priority for the town. Anticipated annexation by the town
will further emphasize the need for the provision of central sewer service.
Growth of the town will also increase the need for the provision of town -financed
police protection. Existing fire protection, health services, social services, library
services, and recreational facilities appear to be adequate within the vicinity of
IV-10

'
town. The town will consider the provision of additional services so long as
the to p g
'
the tax rate does not become burdensome to the town's residents and businesses.
(b)
The Town of Belville will develop a capital improvements and general service
long-range plan for existing and proposed areas of Belville.
(c)
The Town of Belville will pursue the establishment of town -financed police
services at the earliest feasible date.
(d)
Full services will be extended to all annexed areas.
Patterns
Desired Urban
Growth
(a)
The Town of Belville supports controlled urban growth. The town supports
county zoning. Because of the increasing density of development in northern
Brunswick County, the town must closely coordinate its planning with Brunswick
and New Hanover counties and adjacent unincorporated communities. The town's
location at the junction of two major highways offers potential for growth and
development. However, this situation also demands careful control of
'
development. The town will emphasize transportation planning as it considers
for development.
proposals P
(b)
The Town of Belville will adopt a zoning ordinance sensitive to controlling "strip
commercialization. "
(c) The Town of Belville, represented by the Mayor, will actively participate in the
Wilmington Area -Wide Transportation Planning process.
Transportation
(a) The Town of Belville will support the objectives of the Brunswick County
thoroughfare plan, specifically:
-- Improvements to N.C. 133 between Belville and Southport.
-- Improved access to I-40 across the Cape Fear River.
Tourism and Beach and Waterfront Access
(a) Tourism does not provide a direct benefit to or impact on the Town of Belville.
However, tourism is of major importance to the Brunswick County economy.
Much traffic passes through Belville enroute to tourist attractions located
elsewhere in Brunswick County. This causes a seasonal "spin-off" benefit which
is important to Belville's economy. Therefore, the town supports efforts by
Brunswick County and the beach communities to increase tourism.
IV-11

(b) Belville will support North Carolina Department of Transportation projects to
improve access to and within Brunswick County.
(c) Belville will support projects that will increase public access shoreline areas.
(d) Belville 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.
Density of Development
As documented throughout . this plan, the Town of Belville is losing population, housing, and
some- commercial development. Density of development is not an issue or problem. The
reverse is the Town's concern. Without population and commercial growth, the town will
decline and possibly lose its ability to function as a municipality. The Town of Belville will
aggressively pursue annexation in order to increase its population base and development
opportunities. Annexation studies will be utilized to ensure the provision of adequate services
for expansion areas.
Land Use Trends
The following summarizes the predominate land use trends in the Town of Belville:
-- Stagnant residential development
-- Increasing "strip" commercialization
-- Deterioration of commercial areas
-- A developing pattern of incompatible land uses
-- Increasing land area as the result of annexations
The Town of Belville is located in a rapidly developing area. Development in areas adjacent
to the town will rapidly occur at increasing density. The town will support both comprehensive
planning, the adoption of land use controls, and the construction of a central sewer collection
system.
D. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES
Belville recognizes that an important element in developing and implementing any local policies
or plans regarding the use of land in the town is involvement of the town's citizenry. From the
initial stages of development of this CAMA Land Use Plan, Belville has sought to provide open
opportunities for citizen input. A "Public Participation Plan" was developed for the plan
process, outlining the methodology for citizen involvement. The plan is attached as Appendix
H.
A public information meeting was conducted at the outset of the project on February 15, 1994.
Throughout the plan development process, the Board of Commissioners were actively involved.
IV-12

I in or "working sessions," were held. All of these meetings were open to the
A series of meetings, g g p
' public. Specifically, work sessions and/or meetings were held on the following dates: April 19,
1994; June 2, 1994; and July 7, 1994. The Board of Commissioners conducted a public
information for review of and comment on the plan on August 17, 1994.
' The preliminary plan was submitted to the Coastal Resources Commission for comment on
August 19, 1994. Following receipt of CRC comments, the plan was amended, and a formal
public hearing on the final document was conducted on February 21, 1995. A notice of the
public meeting was published in the Wilmington Star News thirty days prior to the hearing. The
plan was approved by the Board of Commissioners on February 21, 1995 and submitted to the
CRC for certification. The plan was certified on March 24, 1995.
Citizen input will continue to be solicited by the Board of Commissioners through advertised and
adequately publicized public meetings held to discuss special land use issues, and to keep citizens
informed.
Another important element in developing plans and policies is intergovernmental coordination.
This plan has been developed to coordinate with local, state, and federal requirements. See
Section II.A. Intergovernmental Coordination and Implementation, on Page II-5.
E. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY, AND
' EVACUATION PLANS
Policy Statements: Storm Hazard Mitigation
order to minimize the damage potentially caused b the effects of a hurricane or other
.r_ 1. In o g P Y Y
major storm,-Belville proposes the following policies:
High Winds
Belville supports enforcement of the N.C. State Building Code. The town will support
enforcement of the State Building code on wind resistant construction with design
standards of from 120 to 150 mph wind loads.
Flooding
Belville is not an active participant in the National Flood Insurance program and is
supportive of hazard mitigation elements. The base flood elevation, to be set out in the
ordinance, should be at least 10 NGVD. Belville also supports continued enforcement
of the CAMA and 404 wetlands development permit processes in areas potentially
susceptible to flooding.
Implementation: Storm Hazard Mitigation
1. Belville will support the standards of the State Building Code.
IV-13

PA
2. The town will continue to support enforcement of State and Federal programs
which aide in mitigation of hurricane hazards, including CAMA and the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers 404 permit process, FEMA, as well as local ordinances
such as zoning and flood damage prevention regulations.
Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan
Belville recognizes that in the event of a major storm, it will be very important to have
a general recovery and reconstruction plan. This section of the Land Use Plan will
address this issue.
a. Appointment of a "Post -Disaster Recovery Team"
In the event of a major storm having direct impact on Belville, when evacuation
orders are issued the Mayor shall appoint a,"Post-Disaster Recovery Team. " The
total team may consist of the following:
1 Mayor
2. Leland Volunteer Fire Department representative
3. Town Board of. Commissioners members
The Mayor will serve as the team leader. The base of operations will be the
Emergency Operations Center (EOC) designated by the governing body. The
Post -Disaster Recovery Team will be responsible for the following.
1. Establishing an overall restoration schedule.
2. Setting restoration priorities.
3. Determining requirements for outside assistance and requesting such
assistance when beyond local capabilities.
4. Keeping the appropriate county and state officials informed and coordinate
with the Brunswick County "Post -Disaster Recovery Team."
5. Keeping the public informed.
6. Assembling and maintaining records of actions taken and expenditures and
obligations incurred.
7. Proclaiming a local "state of emergency" if warranted.
8. Commencing and coordinating cleanup, debris removal and utility
restoration which would include coordination of restoration activities
undertaken by private utility companies.
IV-14

;.
9. Coordinating repair and restoration of essential public facilities and
services in accordance with determined priorities.
10. Assisting private businesses and individual property owners in obtaining
information on the various types of assistance that might be available to
them from Federal and State agencies.
b. Immediate Clean-up and Debris Removal
As soon as practical after the storm, the Post -Disaster Recovery Team will direct
appropriate town personnel and, as necessary, request state and/or federal
assistance to begin clearing fallen trees and other debris from the town's roads
and bridges. Assistance of the NCDOT will be requested.
C. Long -Term Recovery/Restoration
The Post -Disaster Recovery Team will be responsible for overseeing the orderly
implementation of the reconstruction process after a major storm or, hurricane in
accordance with the town's land use regulations and policies.
Damage Assessments
Damage assessments will be necessary to determine as quickly as possible
a realistic estimate of the amount of damage caused by a hurricane or
major storm. Information such as the number of structures damaged, the
magnitude of damage, and the estimated total dollar loss will need to be
developed.
As soon as practical after the storm, i.e., clearance of major roadways,
the Post -Disaster Recovery Team Leader shall set up a Damage
Assessment Team (DAT) consisting of a Brunswick County Building
Inspector, the town's Zoning Administrator (if zoning has been
established), a local realtor or building contractor, and appropriate
personnel from the Brunswick County Tax Department. The DAT will
immediately begin to make "windshield" surveys of damaged structures
to initially assess damages and provide a preliminary dollar value of
repairs or replacement. The following general criteria shall be utilized:
1. Destroyed (repairs would cost more than.80 percent of value).
2. Major (repairs would cost more than 30 percent of the value).
3. Minor (repairs would cost less than 30 percent of the value, but
the structure is currently uninhabitable).
IV-15

4. Habitable (some minor damage, with repairs less than 15 percent
of the value).
Each damage assessment will be documented according to Brunswick
County tax records. Also, town records may be used for identification
purposes. The total estimated dollar value of damages will be summarized
and reported to the Post -Disaster Recovery Team Leader.
Reconstruction Development Standards
Developed structures which were destroyed or sustained "major damage"
and which did not conform to the town's building regulations, zoning
ordinances, and other storm hazard mitigation policies, i.e., basic
measures to reduce damage by high winds, flooding, wave action or
erosion, must be repaired or redeveloped according to those policies. In
some instances, this may mean relocation of construction, or no
reconstruction at all. All structures suffering major damage will be
repaired according to the State Building Code and town Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance (if one has been adopted). All structures suffering
minor damage, regardless of location, will be allowed to be rebuilt to the
original condition prior to the storm.
Development Moratoria
Because of the possible extensive damage caused by a major storm, it may
be necessary for the town to prohibit all redevelopment activities for a
certain period of time after a storm. This "moratorium" could allow the
town time to carefully assess all damage in view of existing policies,
building regulations, and ordinances, in order to help determine whatever
existing policies, etc., should be revised to mitigate similar damage from
future storms. The intent of such a moratorium would be to learn all the
lessons possible and try and determine what steps and precautions the
town can take in rebuilding so as not to suffer damage to the same extent.
If a moratorium is established, the time frame will be commensurate with
the extent of the damage. The actual time frame will be established by
the Board of Commissioners.
Repair/Reconstruction Schedule
The following schedule of activities and time frame are proposed with the
realistic idea that many factors of a hurricane may render the schedule
infeasible.
IV-16

Activities
Time Frame
- Complete and Report Damage
Two weeks after storm
Assessments
- Begin Repairs to Critical Utilities
As soon as possible after
and Facilities
storm
- Permitting of Reconstruction
After a 90-day moratorium,
activities for all damaged structures
and completion of all
("minor" to pre -storm original
assessments.
status, "major" or "destroyed" to
State Building Code and hazard
mitigation standards
Repair and Replacement of Public Utilities
The Town of Belville does not operate any public utilities. The town will
develop a policy governing the replacement of electric utilities. The town
u will develop a zoning ordinance which may
include some controls
addressing the placement of public utilities.
IV-17

SECTION V: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES
AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS

SECTION V. RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS
As required by 15A NCAC 7B planning guidelines, the Belville 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. During fiscal year 1994-95, the town will prepare
a zoning ordinance which will be consistent with the land classification map.
' A. DEVELOPED CLASS
Development should occur in all areas of Belville which are not. classified conservation. All
' Belville properties that are privately owned front on either N.C. 133 or S.R. 1551, both of
which are high volume traffic arteries. Development will be primarily commercial. All of
Belville will require a central sewer service and other basic urban services.
The developed class is specifically designated to accommodate intense development and land
uses, including single and multi -family residential, commercial, open space, community
facilities, and transportation. The density of commercial development will be high.
' B. 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. The conservation
class includes both 404 wetlands and the 15A NCAC 7H designated areas of environmental
concern. Development in the estuarine system should be restricted to uses which satisfy 15A
' NCAC 7H use standards. Except for policies opposing the location of floating structures within
Belville's planning jurisdiction and the construction of marinas, the conservation class policies
and standards included in this plan are not more restrictive than the 15A NCAC 7H use
standards.
I
V-1

APPENDIX I
POLICIES CONSIDERED BUT NOT ADOPTED
A. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS
1. Physical Limitations
Soils
-- The Town of Belville will encourage development on non-hydric soils. This will
be accomplished by adopting a zoning ordinance which allows low density
development, one acre minimum lot size, in all areas having hydric soils.
Flood Hazard Areas
-- Belville will apply for identification of flood hazard areas under the National Flood
Insurance Program and participation in the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program.
2. Miscellaneous Resource Protection
IMarina and Floating Home Development
-- The Town of Belville will encourage responsible marina/dock facility
development; not to exceed 20 total slips for boats up to 35'. Marinas may
include dry stacking facilities for boats up to 25'. Dry stack facilities shall not
provide space for more than 100 boats.
-- Belville will permit the construction and expansion of both open water and upland
marinas (for both general public and private use) which meet local zoning
ordinance requirements (if adopted), and the requirements of the 15A NCAC 7H
minimum use standards. However, marina construction and associated dredging
shall not result in the loss of or damage to coastal wetlands or aquatic
vegetation.
-- Belville will permit the construction and expansion of both open water and upland
marinas (for both general public and private use) which meet local ordinance
requirements (if adopted), and the requirements of 15A NCAC 7H minimum use
standards.
-- Belville will allow the construction of dry stack storage facilities for boats
associated with or independent of marinas, which are consistent with the Town
of Belville zoning ordinance, if adopted.

Belville will discourage permanent anchoring or dockage of live -aboard boats
and floating homes within its waters.
B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES
Mining Resource Areas
The Town of Belville does not possess mineable resources such as peat or phosphate.
C. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICY STATEMENTS
Enerav Facilitv Sitina and Development
(a) There are no electric generating or other power generating plants located in or
proposed for location within Belville's planning jurisdiction. The town will not
support the location of permanent, public/commercial energy generating facilities
within its jurisdiction. .
(d) In some coastal communities, the siting or location of energy facilities relates to
either peat mining or phosphate mining, or offshore oil exploration. There are
none of these resources within the Town of Belville. However, the town will not
support the policy of oil being offloaded in the Cape Fear River because of the
possible contamination of the Brunswick River in case of a spill.
Desired Urban Growth Patterns
(b) The town could discourage "strip commercialization.

APPENDIX II
TOWN OF BELVILLE
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN
PREPARATION OF LAND USE PLAN
t FISCAL YEAR 1993-94
' The Town of Belville has received a FY93-94 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
Belville. 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
µ� identify Areas of Environmental Concern. The plan will focus on transportation thoroughfare
planning, the availability of land for development, annexation/de-annexation issues,
�. preservation of the central business district, and industrial development issues. Specifically,
the planning consultant and the Board of Commissioners will be responsible for ensuring
accomplishment of the following:
-, w 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. January, 1994 -- complete identification of existing land use problems, develop
socioeconomic base data, and review community facilities needs.
2. January, 1994 -- Conduct initial meeting with the Town of Belville Board of
Commissioners, and have the Citizen Participation Plan adopted.
4. February 15, 1994 — 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 1987 Town of Belville 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 Belville will solicit the views of a wide cross-section of citizens in
' the development of the updated policy statements will be explained.
5. February -April, 1994 — Continue preparation of a draft Land Use Plan and conduct
meetings with the Belville Board of Commissioners.
1

6. June, 1994 -- Present complete draft sections of the plan and preliminary policy
statements to the Belville Board of Commissioners.
7. July, 1994 - Review draft Land Use Plan with the Board of Commissioners.
8. August/September, 1994 — 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.
9. Following receipt of Coastal Resources Commission comments (estimate September,
1994) — Present proposed Land Use Plan to Board of Commissioners for adoption, and
conduct a formal public hearing.
All meetings of the Town of Belville Board of Commissioners at which the update of the Land
Use Plan will be discussed will be advertised in a local newspaper. 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 Belville.
1 /7/94