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HomeMy WebLinkAboutLand Use Plan Update-1981DCM COPY DCM COPY lease do not remove!!!!! Division of Coastal Management LAND USE PLAN Holly Ridge, North Carolina 1981 Prepared by the Town of Holly Ridge Assistance Provided By: Neuse River Council of Governments New Bern, N.C. "The preparation of this report 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, r as amended, which is administered by the Office of Coastal Zone Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration." 43 r r TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 II. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 A. Data Collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 B. Description of Present Conditions . . . . . . . . . 5 Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 .Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Conclusions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 C. Existing Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 D. Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations . . . . . . 10 E. Constraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Land Suitability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Capacity of Community Facilities . . . . . . . . . . 14 F. Estimated Demand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 III. POLICY STATEMENTS .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 A. Resource Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 B. Resource Production and Management . . . . . . . . . 33 C. Economic and Community Development . . . . . . . . . 37 D. Continuing Public Participation . . . . . . . . . . 43 IV. LAND CLASSIFICATION ........ 46 t EXECUTIVE SUMMARY r" This plan is an update of a Land Use Plan prepared in 1976 by Holly Ridge under the auspices of the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). The purpose of the Holly Ridge Land Use Plan is to establish a means for achieving the goals of acceptable Coas;tal Area Management. These goals are: J 1. To provide a management system capable of preserving and managing the natural ecological conditions of the estuarine system, the barrier dune system, and the beaches so as to safeguard and per- petuate their natural productivity and their bilogical, economic and aesthetic values. 2. To insure that the development or preservation of the land and water resources of the coastal area proceeds in a manner con- sistent with the capability of the land and water for development, use, or preservation based on ecological considerations. 3. To insure the orderly and balanced use and preservation of our coastal resources on behalf of the people of North Carolina and the nation. 4. To establish policies, guidelines and standards for the conserva- tion of resources; the economic development of the coastal area; the use of recreational lands and tourist facilities; the wise development of transportation and circulation patterns; the pre- servation and enhancement of historical, .cultural and scientific aspects of the region; and the protection of common law and public rights in the land and waters of the coastal area. Although Holly Ridge is not a beach community and there are no environ- mentally sensitive areas with the town.limits, the town should be recognized as an important part of the coastal area where prudent and responsible develop- ment must occur. Holly Ridge was among the towns which adopted a land use plan in 1976 as a basis for orderly growth and protection of natural resources. This updated plan was prepared at the diredtion of the Town Council. Data Collection and Analysis If Holly Ridge's population grew by 12% from 1970 to 1980 (from 415 to 465), M but most of this growth can be attributed to the town's annexing an area west of the railroad tracks. i Holly Ridge has not experienced population growth in recent years be- cause of the lack of job opportunities and lack of benefits normally attri- buted to beach growth. There are two'major employers in Holly Ridge, a bacon processor (with about 200 employees) and a fruit pie producer (about 35 employees). Other residents in Holly Ridge are employed in Jacksonville (20 miles to the north) in Wilmington (30 miles to the south) or work in one of the several retail outlets in the town. Housing has been a major community problem. In 1980, however fifty units of 515/Sec. 8 were built to replace some dilapidated units. Holly Ridge's water system is considered adequate for the town, current- ly only pumping about 2/3 of the estimated capacity. The sewer system, how- ever, is another matter. The town's sewer system was constructed in 1943 and 1944 while the U.S. Army operated Camp Davis adjacent to the town. Since their original construction the town has not maintained the system in proper condition. As a result the system has become dilapidated and much infiltra- tion is occurring. The sewer collection system is in dire need of repair. Issues an& Policies The central feature of the CAMA Land Use Plan is an identification and dis- cussion or major land use management issues facing the town. There are no Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's) within the jurisdic- tion of the,town. However, because the town is only about four miles from the Atlantic Ocean and near some estuaries some actions of the town could have an impact on AECs outside the town's immediate jurisdiction. • ii 1 The town has adopted a variety of policies that fall under four broad categories; Resource Protections, Resource Production and Management, Economic and Community Development and Public Participation. Summaries of key points of these policies are as follows: A. Resource Protection - There are no Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) within the town limits. However, because of the town's proximity to the ocean and the dependence of some of the town's economy on the ocean the town supports the conservation and protection of AECs. The railroad runs north -south and bisects the town. The temporary block- age of tracks does present some hazard to the movement of emergency vehicles. However, the town does not consider the current level of rail traffic to pre- sent a significant hazard. The town desires to assure the availability of fresh useable water to its citizens. B. Resource Production & Management - The town supports the progress of the County Recreation Department. While there are limited areas of forested land within the town's limits the town does support limited clearing of land for development only where overall housing and economic conditions of the town can be shown to benefit. C. Economic and Community Development Policies - The town supports and is active by recruiting light industrial development. The town is committed to providing basic municipal services to its re- sidents, however, due to facility limitations water and sewer services can not be extended at this time. The town supports low to medium density urban growth within the town limits. The town also believes that any furture growth should improve and iii change the dilapidated appearances in the town. In addition, the pattern of mixed land uses in the town will not be encouraged in future growth. The town is supportive and committed to federal and state programs. Specifically the town is involved in: 1) EPA 201 Facilities Planning 2) Four Laning of US 17 3) HUD Community Development Block Grant Program 4) Restoration and Preservation of Camp Davis 5) Improvement of Railroad The town does not presently receive substantial benefit from tourism. However, because of the towns proximity to beach areas the town does have the policy of supporting efforts to increase the benefits of tourism in the town. D. Public Participation The town continues to support public participation in the development and implementation of the CAMA Land Use Plan. Extensive public participation (including a questionnaire mailed to town citizens) was utilized. In addition several public meetings were held in the process of developing the plan. c 0 i d' Description of Land Classification System The land classification system for the coastal area consists of five classes. The following is a description of the these classes. (1) Developed (A) Purpose. The purpose of the developed class is to provide for continued intensive development and redevelopment of existing cities. (B) Description. Areas to be classified developed include lands currently developed for urban purposes at or approaching a density of 500 dwellings per square mile that are provided with usual municipal or public services including at least public water, sewer, recreational facilities, police and fire protection. Areas which exceed the minimum density but which do not have public sewer service may best be divided into a separate class to indicate that although they have a developed character, they will need sewers in the future. (2) Transition (A) Purpose. The purpose -of the transition class is to provide for future intensive urban development within the ensuing ten years on lands that are most suitable and that will be scheduled for provision of necessary public utilities and services. The transition lands also provide for additional growth when additional lands in the developed class are not available or when they are severely limited for development. (B) Description. (i) Lands to be classified transition may include: (1) lands currently having urban services, and (2) other land necessary to accommodate the urban population and economic growth anticipated within the planning jurisdiction over the ensuing ten year period. (ii) Lands classified transition to help meet the demand for developable anticipated population and economic growth must: (1) be served or be readily served by public water, sewer, and other urban services including public streets, and (2) be generally free of severe physical limitations for urban development. In addition, the Transition class should not include: (1) lands of high potential for agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction, or land falling within extensive rural areas being managed commercially for these uses, when other lands are available; (2) lands where urban development might result in major or irreversible damage'to important environmental scientific, or scenic values or (3) land where urban develop- ment might result in damage to natural systems or processes of more than local concern. Lands,where development will result in undue risk to life or property from natural hazards (including inlet hazard areas and ocean erodible areas as defined in 15 NCAC 7E) or existing land uses shall not be classified transitions. L (iii) If any designated area of environmental concern is classified transition, an'explanation shall be included stating why the area is felt to be appropriate for high density development. (iv) In determining the amount of additional transition lands necessary to meet projected urban population and economic growth, the county may utilize estimates of average future urban population density that are based upon local land policy, existing patterns and trends of urban development within the county, and densities specified in local zoning, if any; an estimate of additional Transition class lands should be based upon a guideline density of 2,000 persons or 500 dwellings per square mile. (3) Rural (A) Purpose. The purpose of the rural class is to provide for agriculture, forest management, mineral extraction and other low intensity uses. Residences may be located within "rural" areas where urban services are not required and where natural resources will not be permanently impaired. (B) Description. Lands that can be identified as appropriate for resource management and allied uses include lands with high potential for agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction; lands with one or more limitations that would make development costly and hazardous; and lands containing irreplaceable, limited, or significant natural, recreational, or scenic resources not other- wise classified. (4) Community (A) ' Purpose. The purpose of the, community class is to provide for clustered land development to help meet housing, shop- ping, employment, and public service needs within the rural areas of the county. (B) Description. Lands to be classified community are those areas within the rural areas of planning jurisdictions characterized by a small grouping of mixed land uses, (re- sidences, general store, church, school, etc.), and which are suitable and appropriate for small clusters of rural development not requiring municipal sewer service. (5) Conservation (A) Purpose. The purpose of the conservation class is to'pro- vide for effective long-term management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas. This management may be needed because of its natural, cultural, recreational, productive or scenic values. These areas should not be identified as transition lands in the future. (B) Description. The conservation class should be applied to lands that contain: major wetlands; essentially undeveloped.shore- lands that are unique, fragile, or hazardous for development; necessary wildlife habitat or areas that have a high probability for providing necessary habitat conditions; publicly owned watersupply watersheds and aquifers; and forest loads that are undeveloped and will remain undeveloped for comercial purposes. I. INTRODUCTION -1- The North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 was one of the most extensive and controversial pieces of legislation ever passed by the General Assembly. The Act established a cooperative program of coastal area management between local and state governments. Development and adoption of a land use plan was required by the Act for each County in the coastal area. Municipal ■ plans though not required, were permitted for city and towns who wished to develop their own plan. The Act further required each plan to conform to the guide- lines of the N.C. Coastal Resources Commission. The purpose of the Holly Ridge Land Use Plan is to establish a means for achieving the goals of acceptable Coastal Area Management. These goals are: 1) To provide a management system capable of preserving and managing the natural ecological conditions of the estuarine system, the barrier dune system, and the beaches so as to safeguard and perpetuate their natural productivity and their biological, economic and aesthetic values. 2) To insure that the development or preservation of the land and water resources of the coastal area proceeds in a manner consistent with the capability of the land and water for development, use, or preservation based on ecological considerations. 3) To insure the orderly and balanced use and preservation of our coastal resources on behalf of the people of North Carolina and .the nation. 4) To establish policies, guidelines and standards for the conservation of resources; the economic development of the coastal area; the use of recreational lands and tourist facilities; the wise develop- ment of transportation and circulation patterns; the preservation and enhancement of historical, cultural and scientific aspects of the region; and the protection of common law and public rights in the land and waters of the coastal area. ., y - 2- Although Holly Ridge is not a beach community and there are no environmentally sensitive areas with the town limits, the town should be recognized as an important part of the coastal area where prudent and responsible development must occur. Holly Ridge was among the towns which adopted a land use plan in 1976 as a basis for orderly growth and protection of natural resources. This updated plan was prepared at the direction of the Town Council. 5M II. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS -4- A. Data Collection Data was assembled from numerous sources and several existing reports and documents were utilized. Primary sources included publications of the North Carolina Department of Administration, the N.C. Department of Natural Resources and Community Development, the U.S. Census Bureau, the Neuse River Council of Governments and Onslow County. The most important resource document was the 1976 Holly Ridge Land Use Plan. A particular effort was made to insure the use of the use of the most current data available. Data is presented as an illustrative summary with the intent to depict the actual conditions present in Holly Ridge. The major problem faced in the data collection process was the small size of the town of Holly Ridge. The resource data available was very limited and primary reliance was placed on the 1980 Census. The limited change experienced by the town should negate any major errors in identification of population or economic trends. B. Description of Present Conditions Population Holly Ridge increased in population 12% between 1970 and 1980 from 415 to 465 persons. The town population also remained overwhelmingly white with only 45 non -white residents. The 1980 Census age breakdowns although not yet available are expected to reflect generally the same age composition as 1970 with the possibility of an older trend. The population growth shown by the town between 1970 and 1980 is due primarily to the annexation of the western section of town i across U.S. 17. Little growth if any has occurred within the town's former corporate limits. -5- Several factors, have created this lack of growth in Holly Ridge. These include the fown's distance from Jacksonville and Wilmington and their employment opportunities, the lack of employment possibilities in the area, and the generally poor housing and housing availability in Holly Ridge. The Town is not close enough to the beach or located on the water, thus eliminating the normal resort town opportunities often found in the North Carolina Coastal Areas Seasonal population has not been a factor in Holly Ridge. Another significant factor affecting Holly Ridge's population is the existence of: -Camp LeJeune Marine Base near the town. Many married marines find temporary hous- ing in Holly Ridge, and then move on to permanent quarters nearer to the base out of town. Also, when Camp Davis Military Base closed down adjacent to Holly Ridge, a large segment of the population was lost. Taking a more optimistic view, however, it should be noted that Holly Ridge is located on the western edge of an areasof land that could possibly develop to accommodate moderate to high density uses in the next ten years. This area of Onslow County from the coast west to Highway 17, in the' event of an economic upturn, would seem to be a prime area for such growth. Of course, it is impossible to predict all the consequences of this, but in the event of such development,, Holly Ridge would probably feel the pressure that it needs to grow. Economy The small size of Holly Ridge makes an economic analysis difficult to do due to the lack of information available on economic characteristics of very small towns. However, it is felt that data compiled for Onslow County gives an adequate overview of the economic forces affecting Holly Ridge. Consequently, only a brief description of the major employers and economic activities is given. Specific economic data for il F the County is available in the Onslow County Land Use Plan or from the County Industrial Development Commission. The primary farming areas in the County are near Richlands, Sneads Ferry and in the North Central section of Onslow. Holly Ridge is bounded by forest land and a few residences, but no farms and there are no farmers living in the town. The largest employer in Holly Ridge is Carolina Meat Processors which employsc over 200 people in bacon processing. The only other manufacturing operation in the town is Holly Ridge Foods; they employ approximately 35 people in the production of fruit pies for most of the fast food retail chains. Also, 30 to 40 people are employed in civil service jobs associated with Camp LeJeune. One of the significant characteristics of Holly Ridge, however, is the relatively large number of independent retailers in the town. Due to the relationship of the Town with U.S. 17, there are two markets for these retail trades and services. One; is the services provided to passing motorists and the other is the local market. Included in this category of employment are a couple of service stations, restaurants, barber shop, grocery stores, a craft shop, a fabric shop, a bank, and a used car dealership. Although the meat processor and.pie plant'are significant employers, Holly Ridge's economy, like that of many small towns, is extremely dependent on the ability of the townspeople to provide trade services for each other. Housing Housing conditions in Holly Ridge have been one of the town's major problem areas. Housing units increased by 9.4% between 1970 and 1980 rising from 170 to 186 units. The most important step in improving housing conditions and opportunities was the construction of 50 units of HUD Section 8 Housing by the Holly Ridge Hous- ing Authority. These replaced an equal number of Camp Davis barracks which were demolished. -7- Most inhabited housing in Holly Ridge now meets acceptable standards even though some residences are in need of minor cosmetic repairs to improve their appearance. n,._,., .r --- Holly Ridge's population and economy have changed very little in recent years. Only in the area of housing have existing conditions changed significantly. Creation of the Holly Ridge Housing Authority and construction of HUD Section 8 Housing, coupled with the demolition of substandard units have both improved living conditions in town and served as an example of how progress can be made. Little development pressure from outside sources is anticipated, only in the event of a large employer locating in the area would major change be expected. However, the town's population has stabilized and moderate growth can be predicted. Holly Ridge can be expected to maintain its present idenity and begin Co grow as housing becomes -available and commuters realize the values of living in a small community. C. Existing Land Use The existing land use map of Holly Ridge was updated following a field survey. Past development trends and patterns can be recognized with the aid of the map shown on page 9 . The most evident characteristic of Holly Ridge remains the fact that a large portion of the town is undeveloped. The following table lists each land use category and its percent of total area: x R SEp50A90 ICo45T Llu� � 1 RAILR04D EXISTMIG 'LI f� -�T�+ • I jLl > `• i r ii �• i�� Ll SSE (o FM51DEI.I TIAL LAND ® COMMERCIA-L TRW5PORTATIOM , COMMUN%CA.T%oW UTILITIES }"•;`• GOVERNMEWr 4 14-ST •••.;; ITUTIOPIAI- CULTURAL, ENTEFRTJS.INMF-MT t RiliC2E AT 1 O ICI UWDEIVEI.OPED LA-MV clay �• — „o LIM175 �n • • \ ♦ ♦ 1� � � jpl I 7J, LI So�_ ST._ — — JII♦_ -1pI— _ j fil 14j I I �J _ �._:_: � - - GAROLWA. POWER >NO 1.1(aLLT t:p, LIN@S LI UC RAILROAD HOLLY RIDGE 'NORTH CAROLINA 400 p 40o Sao Itoo 1400 *"LU Sm FEET ti' Existing Land Use Land Use Percent Residential Single Family 11.32 Multifamily .8.3 Commercial 2.43 Government & Institutional 1.24 Transportation, Communication & Utilities 29.61 Cultural, Entertainment & Recreation •07 Undeveloped 47.03 Total 100% The only land use compatability problem is the minor scattering of businesses within the residential areas. This is not a significant problem for the town. Problems of unplanned development are minor since Holly Ridge developed as a planned military installation. The most significant problem is the dividing of the town in two equal halves by the railroad and U.S. 17. No areas in town are experiencing or are considered likely to experience major change in the near future. There are no areas of environmental concern located in the town. D. Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations Current plans for Holly Ridge include the 201 Facilities Plan prepared by Henry Von Oesen and Associates of Wilmington and the 1976 Holly Ridge Land Use Plan. ' The'only land use regulation enforced by the town is building inspection which is the responsibility of the Town Building Inspector. A. Relevant State Regulations: N.C. Department of Natural Resources and Community Development (Divisions of Environmental Management and Coastal Management) State Controls -Permits to discharge to surface waters or operate waste water treat -- went plants or oil discharge permits; NPDES Permits, (G.S. 143-213). -Permits for wastewater treatment systems with a capacity over 3000 gallons/day. (G.S. 143-215.3). -Permits for withdrawal of surface or ground waters in capacity use areas (G.S. 143-215.109). -Permits for air pollution abatement facilities and sources 03,S. 143-215.109). -Permits for construction of complex sources; e.g. parking lots, subdivision, stadiums, etc. (G.S. 143-215-109). -Permits for construction of a well over 100,000 gallons/day (G.S. 87-88). -Permits to dredge and/or fill in estuarine waters, tidelands, etc. (G.S. 113-229) -Permits to Undertake development in areas of Environmental Concern (G.S. 113A-118). NOTE: Minor C.A.M.A. development permits are issued by the local government. N.C. Department•of Natural Resources and Community Development (Division of Earth Resources) State Controls h -Permits to alter or construct a dam (G.S. 143-+215.66). 10 -Permits to mine (G, S. - 74-,51) . ,-Permits to drill and exploratory oil or gas well (G,S. 1.3343U) Permits to conduct physical exploration (G.S. 113-391). (Secretaryl of NRCD)_ State Controls -Sedimentation erosion control plans for any land disturbing activity of over one contiguous acre (G.S. 113A--54). --Permits to construct an oil refinery N.C. Department of Administration State Controls -Easements to fill where lands are proposed to be raised above the normal high water mark or navigable waters by filling (-G.S. 146.6 (c) ). N.C. Department of Human Resources State Controls -Approval to operate a solid waste disposal site or faiclity (G.S. 130-166.16). -Approval to install individual ground absorption sewage disposal systems of 3,000 gallons or less design capacity (G.S. 130--166). -Approval for construction of any public water supply facility that furnishes water to 15 or more year-round residences or 25 or more year-round residents. N.C. Department. of Cultural Resources (Division of Archives and History)_ • 'Federal -National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. -The Archeological and Historic Preservatibn Act of 1974, Public Law 93-291. -Executive Order 11593, Protection and Enhancement of Cultural Environment) 16 U.S.C. 470 (Supp. 1, 1971). -National Environmental Policy Act, Public Law 91-190, 42 U.S.C. 4321 F.L. Sep, (1970), -Community Development Act of 1914, Public Lav 98-383: Environmental Review Procedures,for the Community Development Block Grant Program (40 CER Part 58). -Procedures for the Protection of historic and Cultural Properties (36 CFR Part 800) . -The Department of Transportation Act of 1966, Public Law­89-670. -Identification and Administration of Cultural Resources; Procedures of Individual Federal Agencies. State -G.S. 121--12 (a) Protection of Properties in the National Register. -State Environmental Policy Act, Article 1 of Chapter 113A of the General Statutes. -Executive Order XVI. -Indian Antiquities, G.S. 70.1-4. -Salvage of Abandoned Shipwreck and other Underwater Archeological Sites: G.S. 121-22, 23; 143B-62 (1) .g, (3). -Archeological Salvage in Highway Construction G.S. 13642.1. -Provisions for Cultural Resources in Dredging and filling operatidus, G.S. 113-229. loc 0 B. Relevant Federal Regulations: U. S. Department of Defense (Army. Corps of Engineers). Federal Controls. -Permits required under Sections 9 and 10 of the Rivers- and Harbors of 1899; permits to construct in navigable waters. -Permits required under Section 103 of the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972. -Permits required under Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972; Permits to control the discharges of dredge or filled material into waters of the United States. U.S. Department of Transportation (Coast Guard) U.S. Department of Interior (The Geological Survey, Bureau of Land Management) Federal Controls -Permits for bridges, causeways, pipelines over navigable waters; re- quired under the General Bridge Act of 1946 and the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899. -Deep water port permits -Permits required for off -shore drilling -Approvals of OCS pipeline corridor rights -of -way U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Federal Controls t . -Licenses for siting, construction and operation of nuclear power plants; required under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 and Title II of the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974. 10d U.S. EnergytRegulatory,Commission Federal Controls -Permits-for construction, operations and maintenance of interstate pipelines facilities -required under the Natural Gas Act of 1974. -Orders of interconnection of electric transmission facilities under Section 202 (b) of the Federal Power Act. -Permission required for abandonment of natural gas. pipeline and associated facilities under Section 7C (b) of the Natural Gas Act of 1938. -Licenses for non-federal hydroelectric projects and associated trans- mission lines under Sections 4 and 15 of the Federal Power Act. 1 10e 7 f E. Constraints A. Land Suitability 1) Soil Limitations Holly Ridge occupies land dominated by a soil association consisting primarily of the Lynn Haven, Pamlico, and Leon soil series. They occupy level and depressional areas and are prone to occasional to frequent flooding. Drainage in these soils is poor to very poor with moderate to slow permeability. A large percentage of this association has an organic hardpan underlying it. As in almost all coastal soil associations, included in the series can be small amounts of other soils with good development characteristics so spot site tests will always be advisable before any construction takes place. However, some general characteristics can be illustrated through the use of the chart on the following page. 2) Water Supply Groundwater is the exclusive source of water to all users in Holly Ridge. The hydrogeologic framework in which groundwater occurs here is briefly outlined. Potable groundwater occurs in the Post -Miocene Aquifer, the Castle Hayne Aquifer, and in the upper portion of the Cretaceous System Aquifer. The Post -Miocene Aquifer lithologically consists of unconsolidated sands which store water under water -table conditions; hydraulically connected to the Post -Miocene Aquifer is the Castle Hayne Aquifer, an artesian aquifer composed of mostly porous limestone. Below the Castle Hayne Aquifer is the Cretaceous System Aquifer: potable water occurs under artesian z conditions'in the upper sand zones of the system aquifer. c -11- Soil Interpretations General Soil Map Onslow County, N. C. June, 1970 LIMITATIONS FOR SUITABILITY FOR Dwellings with Recreation Sewerage Septic Tank Intensive Light 1/ Roads b General Soil associations Systems Filter Fields Camp Sites Picnic Areas Play Areas Industries Streets 2i Agriculture Woods % in Soils Assoc. Holly Ridge Leon -Lynn Haven Leon 70 107. of County Lynn Haven 10 Sev(Wt,Prod) Sev(Wt,Lfa) Sev(Wt,Traf) Sev(Wt,Traf) Sev(Wt,Traf) Sev(Wt,Cor) Sev(Wt, 'SC; Slopes 10T Slopes 10% Slopes 6% Slopes 10% Slopes 6% Slopes 10% Slopes 25" impose lim- impose lim- impose lim- impose lim- impose lim- impose sev. impose sev. itations; itations; itations; - itations; itations; limita- limita- 10-25%-Mod. 10-15%-Mod. 6-10%-Mod. 10-25%-Mod. 6-10%-Mod. tions tions 25%+-Sev.• 15%+-Sev. 10%+-Sev. 25%+-Sev.• 10%+-Sev. rttreviations for Limiting Factors:, Perc - Percolation rate Shrink -swell potential, R - Rock _z - Erosion, FL - Flood Hazard, Prod - Productivity At - hater Table, Traf - Trafficability, ':r - Corrosion potential, AWC - Available water capacity, LFA - Low filtering action -S; - Traffic supporting capacity Abbreviations for degree of limitations: Slt. - Slight Mod. - Moderate Sev. - Severe 1 Structures whose footings are in subsoil J Refers to roads and streets that have subsoil for base J •' Brackish groundwater exists in sands in the middle and lower portion of the Cretaceous System Aquifer. The Post -Miocene Aquifer exists from land surface to approximately fifty feet below land surface (BLS); from fifty feet BLS to two hundred feet BLS is the Castle Rayne Aquifer. The Cretaceous System Aquifer exists from two hundred feet to approximately thirteen hundred feet BLS where basement is encountered. The source of recharge to the Post-Miocene.Aquifer is infiltration by precipitation; since the Post -Miocene Aquifer is probably connected to the Castle Rayne Aquifer, recharge of the Castle Hayne by vertical leakage from the upper Post -Miocene Aquifer is significant. Therefore, environmental facts which affect the Post -Miocene Aquifer also affect the Castle Hayne Aquifer. Presently the Town of Holly Ridge pumps groundwater from a well -field located within the city limits. Three wells screened in the upper zone of the Cretaceous System Aquifer provide a satisfactory quantity and quality of water to all users. These wells when pumped probably affect the overlying Castle Hayne Aquifer only slightly if any at all. The aquifer of environmental concern is the Post -Miocene Aquifer. Proper manage- mentof this aquifer is necessary to protect the usability of the aquifer and the underlying aquifer (Castle Rayne Aquifer) which receives recharge from the Post - Miocene. This need for management is made more necessary by the fact that future expansion of the Town of Holly Ridge would encourage the use of the more productive e Castly Hayne Aquifer instead of the Cretaceous System Aquifer. 3) Areas with Resource Potential West of U.S. Highway 17, adjacent to Holly Ridge, lies a natural and scenic area known as the Great Sandy Run Pocosin. This 63 square mile flat, swampy region has native trees of pond pine and scrub oak. It is presently used for forestry and big game hunting, including bear and deer. -13- There are no excessive slope areas (over 12%) located in Holly Ridge. There are no fragile areas (min. req.15 NCAC 7 H) located in the Holly Ridge Planning Jurisdiction. E. Capacity of Community Facilities 1) Water and Sewer Systems The water system for Holly Ridge has a 360,000 gallons per day capacity. As of January 31, 1974, an average of 240,000 gallons were used per day. This water is available from two active wells with a combined output of 750 gallons per minute. There is, therefore, a substantial surplus of water available in Holly Ridge. In addition to the two active wells, Holly Ridge has access to seven more wells in the immediate vicinity if needed. The sewer system in Holly Ridge was installed during 1943 and 1944 as a Public Works Project while the United States Army operated Camp Davis adjacent to the Town. The Camp Davis area, as well as Holly Ridge, is serviced by thu lines. Within the Town limits, the system consists of approximately 1.5 miles of 8", 10" and 12" primary gravity collector lines constructed of vitrified clay pipes. Overall, the system is in poor condition due primarily to its age and lack of maintenance. Recent inspection of the system by Henry von Oesen and Associates indicates that infiltration through deteriorating joints in manhole walls is occurring throughout most of the system. Some infiltration through deteriorated pipe joints or broken pipe was also observed. Many of the manholes in the system -have either damaged or missing rims, and many of the covers are made of materials other than standard cast iron. Y Funding for stages 2 and 3 of the 201 Plan is anticipated during 1982 for I construction of new sewer facilities. -14- 2) Wastewater Treatment Facility Recent examination of the existing wastewater treatment facility has been conducted by Henry von Oesen and Associates. Their examination of the system indicates that the existing facility is extremely poor. R The existing treatment facility consists of a rectangilar concrete septic tank followed by two sand filters with effluent discharge to Kings Creek. The septic tank's external dimensions are 71.5 feet long, 11.83 feet wide and 5.5 feet deep. The volume of the tank is 29,920 gallons. The plant was designed in 1943 by Paul M. Van Camp as a War Public Works Project. Both the septic tank and the sand filters are in poor condition. Henry Von Oesen and Associates report "that the septic tank is leaking at the effluent end. One effluent pipe is severed from the tank and the tank effluent is running across the ground for a distance of about three feet before flowing by gravity into an 8" cast iron line leading to the sand beds. There is no evidence that the tank has been pumped to remove sludge in recent months and the municipality has not kept any written records on maintenance of the system. Both of the sand filters are in a deteriorated condition with grasses, weeds and even small trees growing in the beds. Most of the septic tank effluent flows to the eastern most bed. That bed is completely plugged with solids affording little, if any, percolation. In fact, the bed is ponded with effluent flowing overland by gravity into Kings Creek. The effluent is not being chlorinated." Influent and effluent grab samples were obtained for analysis from the Holly Ridge system on October 14, 1974. Analysis showed influent BOD5 of 50mg/1 and COD of 66 mg/l. Effluent samples of BOD5 were 44 mg/l and COD was 78 mg/l. The septic tank was providing a BOD5 reduction of only 12 percent and COD actually increased across the tank. -15- Overloading and lack of maintenance results in the discharge of poorly treated sewage into Kings Creek. This discharge has apparently caused widespread pollution of Kings Creek and the sound which Kings Creek drains into, Stump Sound. These areas have been classified as "SC - Swamp Water" by the State Division of Environmental Management which closes the water to both shellfishing and body contact activities by humans. Funding by EDA of the town's 201 Facilities Project is anticipated during early 1982. This will alleviate the sewage treatment problem. 3) Schools and Roads Holly Ridge children attend county schools; and, therefore, schools do not i qualify as an existing community facility in the planning area. However, there has been much concern expressed over the inadequacy of the school facilities serving the Holly Ridge area - notably Dixon Elementary School. Consequently, growth in Holly Ridge will eventually put added pressure on the existing county school system. Holly Ridge should make efforts to stay in contact with the Onslow County Superintendent of School-, to discuss the affect of increased population on the area school facilities. Roads are another community responsibility. In the areas designated by this planning effort for future development, road construction and maintenance will be required. Of the 73.6 acres of road right of way in Holly Ridge, 39.7 are unpaved. Road improvements may not necessarily preceed development. The precise amount of. road construction needed for new growth shall be determined by the extent of such development. 4) Police, Fire, and Emergency Medical Service rerlain principle services id offered by the town. These services are considered adequate at this time to meet a the existing and future requirements of the community. 5) Solid Waste The solid waste is collected by a private contractor twice a week. It is disposed of at the county -owned landfill near Jacksonville. } F. Estimated Demand 1) Population and Economy No planning effort can be thought adequate without consideration for possible population changes or desired growths. In Holly Ridge, or in any small town, population projections are difficult to make confidently due to the lack of a substantial base number with which to work. Any number of occurrences, social or economic, would likely invalidate a projection. However, the method used in the 1976 Holly Ridge Plan considers the Holly Ridge projection in light of populat- ion change of the entire township for the purpose of arriving at a reasonable figure. A geometric population projection based on the three census counts made in Holly Ridge projected a population loss of 37.5% every ten years. As a result of this projection, Holly Ridge's population would have been down to 259 in 1985 and by the year 2085, the population would have been 0. However, the 1976 Plan noted the idea of the plan is to stop this trend. The 1976 Plan used township data since 1910, and made the geometric projection of a 12.5% increase per decade. Using this percentage, Stump Sound Township would have a 1985 population of 6,238. The maximum optimistic projection for Holly Ridge would require using this same 12.5% figure. This was felt to be a reasonable method because there is no reason to believe that any other part of the township would grow faster than Holly Ridge except for the beach area. This geometric method results in the following population projection for Holly Ridge for the coming years. a The accuracy of this 1976 Plan projection can be easily seen for the 1980 Census. The 1976 Plan predicted a 1980 population of 441 while the actual 1980 Census count was 465. Since annexation has occurred since the 1976 plan total accuracy cannot be claimed. However, for purposes of this update the town believes -17- the 12.5% geometric population projection to be reasonable. Population Projections Year 1985 1990 1995, 2000 Population 494 523 555 589 2) Future Land Needs The most evident characteristic of Holly Ridge as seen from the existing land use map is that most of the Town is undeveloped. Since Holly Ridge has express- ed the desire to maintain its present character even in the event of increased economic activity, it seems appropriate to encourage development in the undeveloped area in the same proportions as in the developed area. This would increase the density of the town at the expense of maintaining its exact character but the over- all effect wouldn't be too drastic. It may be necessary to develop more intensely further in the future and then expand as needed. The 11976 Land needs were based on population projections which have not changed significantly. For this reason only minor changes are made in the Land Classification Map. Of the total land area of 259 acres, Holly Ridge -contains 122 acres of undeveloped land. -18- A 3) Community Facilities Demand To meet the needs that future development will demand, Holly Ridge must extend some of its basic services. Water and sewer facilities should be available to all residents. The -wastewater treatment plant is inadequate to meet present needs, therefore, it definitely will not be able to handle the additional waste that accompanies development. A revised 201 Facilities Plan, drafted by Henry Von Oesen and Associates, has been submitted to the Division of Environmental Management, Department of Natural Resources and Community Development and the EPA. Examination of the existing wastewater treatment plant in Holly Ridge indicates that the system will have to be abandoned and a new system designed. The estimated cost of a proposed wastewater treatment system has been as high as $650,000 with the local share being as high as $200,000. Due to this high cost, other methods of wastewater treatment are being looked into. SECTION III POLICY STATEMENTS -20- J HOLLY RIDGE LAND USE PLAN Issues and Policies The central feature of most conventional land use plans is the land use map containing projections for the future. These maps have historically shown where development is planned and should occur. Conversely these maps also indicate areas to be preserved where major facilities should not be located. The Existing Land Use and Land Classification maps at first glance may appear to be the outstanding feature of the Holly Ridge Land Use Plan. Maps are certainly the most visable and usually also receive the most attention regardless of who the plan reviewer may be. In the Holly Ridge Land Use Plan; however, these maps should be considered only a graphic display of the written policies stated on the following pages. Holly Ridge has addressed issues in the form and order as required in the guidelines of the Coastal Resources Commission. The broad policy topic areas are: . Resource Protection . Resource Production and Management . Economic and Community Development Continuing Public Participation Many subtopics are discussed within these broad areas. The Town has • attempted to address the issues and develop policies as -required by the Commission; however, in Holly Ridge many areas covered in the guidelines do not exist within the town limits or cannot be addressed to the detailed indicated by the guidelines. The policy statements which follow are in the opinion of the town -21- both in the best interest of Holly Ridge and within the general framework of the guidelines. Goals and Objectives - 1976 The 1976 Holly Ridge Land Use Plan of which this document is an update, lists the following as goals for the Town of Holly Ridge. Goal: Develop the potential for industrial development Objectives --specify sites available for industries to locate --work with Onslow County Development Commission and the Economic Developer with the North Carolina Department of Natural and Economic Resources in finding industries interested in locating in the area --reactivate the Governor's Award Committee in Holly Ridge --adequate wastewater treatment facilities must be provided to attract economic development Goal: Provide adequate retail shopping services Objectives --encourage the utilization of existing vacant buildings --tear down old and structurally deficient store buildings --develop small shopping center in scale with the town Goal: Develop medical and recreational facilities to serve the community Objectives --construct Medical Clinic and employ staff to provide basic medical services --establish committee to define recreational needs and initiate citizen interest and participation in a course of action -22- --work in conjunction with Onslow County Recreation Department in establishing recreational facilities Goal: Provide adequate and efficient community facilities ` Objectives --replace broken sewer lines --update wastewater treatment plant --appoint committee to work with Onslow County Board of Education in improving Dixon Elementary School Goal: Encourage safe and decent housing for all citizens Objectives --aid homeowners in the demolition of homes unfit for human habitation --cooperate with Onslow County Inspection Department in enforcing State electrical and plumbing codes --request assistance of the Farmers Home Administration 502 Housing Program to buy, build, improve, repair or rehabilitate homes Goal: Initiate citizen interest in community problems Objectives --organize a Community Development Committee --organize program to clean up the town and make it more attractive These goals and objectives formulated by the Town of Holly Ridge were the result of the wishes and desires expressed by citizens in 1976. Brochures, newsletters, personal letters, and articles in the Jacksonville newspaper y were used to gain public participation and public knowledge of the Coastal Area Management Act program. Questionnaires were the major source of information for development of the Town's 1976 goals. -23- Obviously all goals and objectives from 1976 have not been reached or accomplished. Most notable are the lack of progress in obtaining funding to improve the sewer system. Another example is the lack of successful industrial development. However, progress has been made. The goal of establishing a health clinic in the town has become a reality. Holly Ridge believes these goals which have not been accomplished are still valid and in some areas even more important in 1981. The Town does not see any conflict between the goals of the 1976 Plan and the more specific policy statements of the 1980 Update. The Town considers the policy statements which follow to be a natural progression from the goals of 1976. r -24- A. RESOURCE' PROTECTION POLICIES -25- Resource Protection Policies A. Areas of Environmental Concern 1. Estuarine System Categories The first AECs discussed collectively are those water and land areas of the coast that contribute enormous economic, social, and biological values to North Carolina and Holly Ridge as components of the estuarine system. Included within the estuarine system are the following AEC categories: estuarine waters, coastal wetlands, public trust areas, and estuarine shorelines. Each of the AECs is either geographically within the estuary or, because of its location and nature, may significantly affect the estuary. The Town of Holly Ridge supports the protection and coordinated management of estuarine waters, coastal wetlands, public trust areas, and estuarine shore- lines, as an interrelated group of AECs, to safeguard and perpetuate their biological, social, economic, and aesthetic values, and to ensure that development occurring within these AECs is compatible with natural characteristics to minimize the likelihood of significant loss of private property and public resources. There are no AECs within the jurisdiction of the Town of Holly Ridge. The town is, however located near the coast and receives a great deal of through traffic as a direct result. Protection and management of estuarine AECs is important to Holly Ridge for this reason and because the town believes these areas to be important-to,all citizens. The Town generally agrees with the use standards for AECs as found in the rules of the Coastal Resources Commission. The town believes appropriate uses should be consistent with the use standards which are defined. The Town does not believe policy alternatives are realistic or necessary since no AECs are -26- actually located within the town's jurisdiction. The policy of Holly Ridge is to support the coastal management program especially in regards to Areas of Environment Concern. The Town will implement this policy through its continued support and involvement in the program. Responsibility for action shall rest with the Mayor and Town Board. 2. Ocean Hazard Categories The next broad grouping is composed of those AECs that are considered natural hazard areas along the Atlantic Ocean shoreline where, because of their special vulnerability to erosion or other adverse effect of sand, wind, and water, uncontrolled or incompatible development could unreasonably endanger life or property. Ocean hazard areas include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas in which geologic, vegetive and soil conditions indicate a substantial possibility of excessive erosion or flood damage. There are no Ocean Hazard category AECs within the'Holly Ridge jurisdiction. The policy concerning Ocean Hazard AECs shall be the same as stated for estuarine category AECs. 3. Public Water Supply Categories The third broad grouping of AECs includes valuable small surface water supply watersheds and public water supply well fields. There are no identified Public Water Supply category AECs within the Holly Ridge jurisdiction. The Holly Ridge policy concerning Public Water Supply AECs shall be the same as stated for estuarine category AECs. 4. General The fourth and final group AECs is gathered under the heading of fragile coastal natural and cultural resources areas and is defined as areas containing environmental, natural or cultural resources of more than local significance in which uncontrolled or incompatible development could result in major or irreversible damage to natural systems or cultural resources, scientific, educational, or associative values, or aesthetic qualities. There are no identified general category AECs within the Holly Ridge jurisdiction. The Holly Ridge policy concerning General Category AECs shall be the same as stated for estuarine category AECs. B. Constraints to Development Constraints to development are discussed within the data analysis section of this plan on pages 11 - 13 The following are the Holly Ridge policies on resource protection in these areas. 1. Man -Made Hazard Areas The only potential man-made hazard area in Holly Ridge is the railroad. Tracks run north -south through the entire length of the town parallel to U.S. 17 dividing the most recently incorporated section•from the rest of Holly Ridge. The primary potential hazard of the railroad is the transportation through town of dangerous materials. A secondary hazard is the simultaneous blocking of several crossings thus separating half of the town from emergency services. INM Only two alternatives were considered by the town as reasonable. First was to take an inactive role in railroad actions and transports through town. The second was to support the railroad but only to the extent railroad. actions and policies are supportive of environmentally safe operations. The Town does not consider current traffic levels to create a hazard by dividing the town. The second policy was selected as most appropriate for the Town of Holly Ridge. The railroad is a very important asset to the town and the town will continue to support the railroad provided all applicable health and safety regulations are complied with. The Town does not necessarily oppose transport of any material through Holly Ridge provided the above condition has been adequately satisfied. The Mayor and Town Board shall be the persons responsible for implementing this policy. 2. Natural Hazard Areas There are no natural hazard areas within the jurisdictional limits of the Town of Holly Ridge. 3. Soils Soils in Holly Ridge are generally limited as a result of occasional flooding and generally poor drainage with moderate to slow permeability. The policy of the Town-is,to support the programs of the State and United States Soil Conservat- ion Service insuring adequate soil conditions to the extent possible for future r development in Holly Ridge. M Z Appropriate uses are those which do not conflict with this policy by creating a hazard to the soils of Holly Ridge. No alternatives to this policy were considered. Implementation and enforcement of this policy shall be the responsibility of the Town building inspector and the Onslow County Health Department. C. Specific Local Resource Development Issues Relative to 15 NCAC 7H Holly Ridge has not addressed specific resources development issues relative to 15 NCAC 7H. The Town does not believe any policies beyond those stated in the AEC section are necessary at this time. D. Other Hazardous or Fragile Land Areas Other hazardous or fragile land areas are identified and discussed in the data analysis section of this plan. 1. Water Supply Sources Groundwater is the exclusive source of water to all users in Holly Ridge. The Town policy is to insure the availability of fresh useable water from the aquifers providing the town's water supply. No alternatives to this policy were considered. Appropriate uses are those which would not endanger the town's water supply either from pollution or over use. 2. Complex Natural Areas_ West of.U.S. Highway 17, adjacent to Holly Ridge, lies a natural and scenic area known as the Great Sandy Run Pocosin. This 63 square mile flat, swampy region has native trees of pond pine and scrub oak. It is presently used for forestry and hunting. The Town believes these should continue to be the appropriate -30- uses for this area. The Town policy is to support the preservation of the pocosin in its natural state within the limited use of forestry. No alternatives to this policy were considered. 3. Archeological and Historic Sites There are no sites or structures in Holly Ridge listed on the National Register. However, a potential location exists with the World War II Camp Davis site. The Town policy shall be to protect and preserve all structures identified by the N.C. Division of Archives and History and any other structures subsequently identified, and to protect and preserve existing or potential archeological sites as identified by the Division or Holly Ridge. No policy alternatives were considered. Appropriate uses are those which in the opinion of, the Division of Archives and History and/or the Town of Holly Ridge, will not endanger, destroy, or remove the historic value of the structure or site. The Town Building Inspector is responsible for implementation of activities to enforce policies in D.1.-D.S. E. Hurricane and Flood Plain Evacuation Needs and Plans Under North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 166, the Onslow Civil Preparedness Agency was organized. This Department of the County government coordinated all hurricane, flood evacuation and emergency plans for the County, including the Town of Holly Ridge. The plans developed by Onslow County will be followed by the Town of Holly Ridge. No alternative to this policy was considered reasonable. The County Civil Prepardness Director is responsible for.implementation of these plans as necessary. -32- B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES -33- The Town of Holly Ridge with respect to natural resources production and management recognizes the close relationship many town activities could have on the land and water resources of the area. However, since there are no significant areas within Holly Ridge's jurisdiction with these uses, specific policies are not established. Generally the town supports preservation of these areas. 1) Recreation Holly Ridge is located in an area with many natural resources which are valuable for recreational purposes. The fragile land and water resources of the immediate coastal area are the most important. Holly Ridge supports recreation by encourag- ing preservation of the surrounding resources. The town also supports the programs of the Onslow County Recreation Department. While the town recognizes the importance of recreation for residents, the town is not financially able to contribute significantly to recreation programs. The Town policy shall be to continue to support recreation but not through a financial contribution. The Mayor and Board of Commissioners shall be responsible for implementing this policy. Natural resource protection will be the responsibility of the various agencies and local governments controlling these areas. The Onslow County Recreation Department should be consulted for more information concerning specific recreation policies and programs in the area. -34— 2) .Productive Agricultural Lands There is no farming activity within the Holly Ridge planning area. The Town does not believe a policy addressing productive agricultural lands is necessary at this time. 3) Forestry Forested land within the Holly Ridge planning area is very limited. Only a small number of acres on the fringe of the town limits are actually within Holly Ridge. As a policy the Town supports the preservation of forestry lands and endorses the use of forestry management practices which will not substantially harm the natural environment. A slight exception or variation of this policy is the Town policy to support land clearing provided the future use of the land will either improve the overall housing conditions, housing availability, or overall economic conditions of Holly Ridge. The Town considers appropriate uses to be proven forestry, management practices which universally accepted or those uses proven to meet the policy exception. Alternatives to this policy considered were; (1) establish land use controls to prohibit development with forest lands; (2) permit unrestricted develop- ment or use through a no control policy; or (3) encourage development only where the overall housing or economic conditions of the town can be shown to directly benefit. The town believes the third alternative to be the most appropriate and insure the least interference with the private property rights and the needs of the town to grow. The policy objective will be implemented and enforced by the Town Planning Board using the existing town Ordinances and the Land Classification Map. -35- (4) Mining There are no areas within the Holly Ridge'Planning Area with the potential for creating any type of mining activity. The Town does not believe a policy addressing mining is necessary at this time. (5) Commercial Fishing There are no commercial fishing operations of any type located within the Holly Ridge Planning Area. The Town does not believe a policy addressing commercial fishing is necessary at this time. (6) Off -Road Vehicles There are no areas within the Holly Ridge Planning Area where extensive public use of off -road vehicles occur. The Town again, does not believe a policy addressing off -road vehicles is desirable or required at this time. -36- C. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES -37- Economic and Community Development Policies The 1976 Holly Ridge Land Use Plan included six goals, five of which were directly related to economic and community development. A common objective found throughout these goals was the desire of the Town for moderate 1. growth. The Town believed these goals were possible and could be compatible if properly managed. The desire for growth was made while recognizing the past trend of population decrease in Holly Ridge. The 1980 Census indicates a 12% population increase however. This moderate growth is most likely the result of housing improvement on annexation and not the result of significant economic change. Thus the need for economic improvement continues. Also only minor community development has occurred and large areas of town remain at best rundown at worst completely dilapidated. The growth indicated by the 1980 Census was a welcome reversal of past population counts. This change,because annexation played the major role, cannot become firmly established without some progress in economic and community development. No additional populated areas exist outside current town limits. Most citizens responding in the 1981 survey desired additional growth especially industrial, commercial and residential growth. Holly Ridge continues to attempt improvements which will encourage and support this desired growth. The Town has sought funding through the federal 201 Facilities Program and Community Development Block Grant Program. Past efforts have not been success- ful, however, the town is not financially able to implement improvements with- out funding assistance and will continue to apply. 1) Industrial Development Holly Ridge supports and is actively seeking light industrial development. The most desired industry is the relatively small employer providing approximately 25 to 100.high wage skilled positions. Ideally this type of industry would be -IR- clean, without fumes, noise, or other pollution causing by product. Heavy industry employing large numbers of people with the accompanying environmental problems is not desired. The objective of industrial development is based on the desire of Holly Ridge to first provide jobs for County citizens and second to provide employment opportunities for new residents creating town growth. High wage jobs are required to: 1) decrease the out migration of young residents; 2) improve income levels within the area; and 3) reduce the high percentage of substandard housing in Holly Ridge. These problems are discussed in greater detail in the Description of Present Conditions section of this plan. The only major employer located in the Holly Ridge immediate area is Carolina Meat Processors. Major employers in Jacksonville and Wilmington are too distant to create growth in Holly Ridge under normal circumstances. The Town seeks to accomplish this objective through the use of various state and federal industrial location programs and the Onslow County Industrial Development Commission. 2) Commitment to Providing Services The first priority for providing public services in Holly Ridge is with in the town limits. Currently only the fire and rescue services provide assistance to areas outside of town limits. Services normally provided town residents include: 1) Police Protection 2) Fire Protection 3) Water and Sewer Service 4) Emergency Medical Service 5) Garbage Collection With exception of water and sewer these services can easily be extended to serve new residents or industry. Sewer service cannot be increased or extended unless and until facilities proposed in the Holly Ridge 201 Facilities Plan are constructed. To date the project has not received funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. -39- s Requests for information on services available or requests for services should be directed to the Town Clerk. The Town Clerk is the primary official with responsibility for providing services. 3) Urban Growth Desired Holly Ridge supports low to medium density urban growth within the town limits. The Town believes any growth should improve on and change the dilapidated appearance of Holly Ridge. The Town believes in existing patterns of residential and commercial development. The pattern of mixed land uses which now exist throughout the town will not be supported in future develop- ment however. 4) Redevelopment Policies Major areas and many structures in Holly Ridge are in need of redevelopment. The Town has not been financially able to undertake any redevelopment at its own expense. Attempts at obtaining federal redevelopment funds have not been successful. As policy the town will continue to seek outside funding assistance and will encourage and assist private redevelopment activities where possible. 5) Commitment to State and Federal Programs Holly Ridge is generally supportive of state and federal programs including erosion control, public water access, highway improvements, and construction, port facilities, dredging, military facilities, etc. There are no federal or state programs at present which create either overriding interest or concerns in Holly Ridge. Areas where state and/or federal programs assistance has or may be requested are: -40= 1) EPA 201 Facilities Planning 2) Four Laning of US 17 3.) HUD Community Development Block Grant Program 4) Restoration and Preservation of,Camp Davis 5) Improvement of Railroad r The Town is willing to commit resources to these projects if funds are available. Holly Ridge reserves the right to review and comment and to support or oppose other projects individually. The Town is an active member of the Neuse River Council of Governments and reviews all state and federal projects included under the A-95 Project Notification and Review System. All official comments are directed through the Town Clerk's Office. 6) Assistance To Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment Holly Ridge generally supports both Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourish- ment projects provided the benefits gained can be proven to be greater than the resulting cost whether financial or to the environment. There are no beaches or waterways-, in the Holly Ridge Planning Area, however. i The Town supports the Corps of Engineers' program to maintain and improve the Intercoastal Waterway as an avenue of commercial and recreational traffic. Given the economic importance of the waterway, there is no real alternative to this position. Holly Ridge is interested since a great deal of traffic through the Town is directly related to the resources of the coast. 7) Energy Facility Siting and Development Holly Ridge has no specific policy on energy facility siting or development at this time. Generally the Town would be supprotive of such a facility locating in the area. Holly Ridge would not support the locating of a facility which could not provide reasonably adequate assurances for the future safety of citizens and/or natural resources of the area. The Town, for this reason, reserves the right to comment, support, or oppose any proposed facility on an -41- individual basis. H. Tourism, Beach, and Waterfront Access Holly Ridge does not receive substantial economic benefit from tourism. Tourism because of the town's location is a potential untapped resource. The policy of the town is to support any efforts to increase the benefits of tourism to Holly Ridge. Beach and Waterfront access are not issues in Holly Ridge since no beach or waterfront of any type is within the town's jurisdiction, although one. of two access routes to Topsail Island is through Holly Ridge. -42- D. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES -43- r A CITIZEN PARTICIPATION 1) Plan Update The original'1976 Holly Ridge Land Use Plan was prepared following extensive public participation and education efforts. Several public meetings were held and residents were surveyed through a questionnaire. A small, but interested number of residents participated. In preparation of the 1981 Plan Update, simular public participation efforts were used. A survey was mailed to all town water bill recipients. Approximately 20% of those receiving the survey (125) responded. An advertised public meeting was held for the purpose of receiving citizen input into the plan. Time was alloted during each regular town board meeting to discuss progress and decisions during the update process. The draft plan update was placed on review in the town hall and a public hearing was advertised in the Jacksonville newspaper and held prior to adoption of the Plan by the Town Board. 2) Public Education The Town Clerk and Building Inspector are the persons with primary responsibility for public education on planning issues. Public education is accomplished through 1) direct public contact of these officials 2) Advertisement of town policies, meetings, ordinances, etc., and 3) town board and planning board meetings open to the public. 3) Continuing Efforts The activities described above should be considered as on -going work elements. .Additionally, Town Board and Planning Board activities will continue to be covered by the press and any proposed changes in Town policy will be considered -44- only after thorough opportunity for public examination and input concerning the issue(s). Changes of significance will be made through the same process as the Plan Update. -45- z IV. LAND CLASSIFICATION -46- r Description of Land Classification System The land classification system for the coastal area consists of five classes. The following is a description of the these classes. (1) Developed (A) Purpose. The purpose of the developed class is to provide for continued intensive development and redevelopment of existing cities. (B) Description. Areas to be classified developed include lands currently developed for urban purposes at or approaching a density of 500 dwellings per square mile that are provided with usual municipal or public services including at least public water, sewer, recreational facilities, police and fire protection. Areas which exceed the minimum density but which do not have public sewer service may best be divided into a separate class to indicate that although they have a developed character, they will need sewers in the future. (2) Transition (A) Purpose. The purpose. of the transition class is to provide for future intensive urban development within the ensuing ten years on lands that are most suitable and that will be scheduled for provision of necessary public utilities and services. The transition lands also provide for additional growth when additional lands in the developed class are not available or when they are severely limited for development. -47- (B) Description. (i) Lands to be classified transition may include: (1) lands currently having urban services, and (2) other land necessary to accommodate the urban population and economic +, growth anticipated within the planning jurisdiction over the ensuing ten year period. (ii) Lands classified transition to help meet the demand for developable anticipated population and economic growth must: (1) be served or be readily served by public water, sewer, and other urban services including public streets, and (2) be generally free of severe physical limitations for urban development. In addition, the Transition class should not include: (1) lands of high potential for agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction, or land falling within extensive rural areas being managed commercially for these uses, when other lands are available; (2) lands where urban development might result in major or irreversible damage to important environmental scientific, or scenic values or (3) land where urban develop- ment might result in damage to natural systems or processes of more than local concern. Lands.where development will result in undue risk to life or property from natural hazards (including inlet hazard areas and ocean erodible areas as defined in 15 NCAC 7E) or existing land uses shall not be classified transitions. A Ok (iii) If any designated area of environmental concern is classified transition, an explanation shall be included stating why the area is felt to be appropriate for high density development. (iv) In determining the amount of additional transition lands necessary to meet projected urban population and economic growth, the county may utilize estimates of average future urban population density that are based upon local land policy, existing patterns and trends of urban development within the county, and densities specified in local zoning, if any; an estimate of additional Transition class lands should be based upon a guideline density of 2,000 persons or 500 dwellings per square mile. (3) Rural (A) Purpose. The purpose of the rural class is to provide for agriculture, forest management, mineral extraction and other low intensity uses. Residences may be located within "rural" areas where urban services are not required and where natural resources will not be permanently impaired. (B) Description. Lands that can be identified as appropriate for resource management and allied uses include lands with high potential for agriculture, forestry, or mineral extraction; lands with one or more limitations that would make development costly and hazardous; and lands containing irreplaceable, limited, or significant natural, recreational, or scenic resources not other- wise classified. -49- (4) Community (A) Purpose. The purpose of the community class is to provide for clustered land development to help meet housing, shop- ping, employment, and public service needs within the rural areas of the county. (B) Description. Lands to be classified community.are those areas within the rural areas of planning jurisdictions characterized by a small grouping of mixed land uses, (re- sidences, general store, church, school, etc.), and which are suitable and appropriate for small clusters of rural development not requiring municipal sewer service. (5) Conservation (A) Purpose. The purpose of the conservation class is to pro- vide for effective long-term management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas. This management may be needed because of its natural, cultural, recreational, productive or scenic values. These areas should not be identified as transition lands in the future. (B) Description. The conservation class should be applied to lands that contain: major wetlands; essentially undeveloped shore - lands that are unique, fragile, or hazardous for development; necessary wildlife habitat or areas that have a high probability for providing necessary habitat conditions; publicly owned ' watersupply watersheds and aquifers; and forest lands that are undeveloped and will remain undeveloped for commercial purposes. 4 -5Q . None of the land in Holly Ridge is classed community or.conservation. Relationship of Policies and Land Classification f The land classification system was developed as a tool to aid in the implementation of the development policies. The land classification system r should be used to determine in which areas certain policies may be imple— mented. v It is the intent of the land classification system to give Federal and State agencies guidance in reviewing proposals for the spending of federal or state money in Holly Ridge. For example, a proposal to extend water or sewer facilities into an area designated rural would not likely be approved because such an exten— sion could have an adverse effect on the area. Also such a classification system is a good guide for local governments to utilize in their own development guidance program. 51 f LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP 52 ►GE ,INA LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEH The central focus of the CAMA Land -Use Plan is the land classification system. This map is a statement of how the town desires to develop. While there are five 0 different classifications in the system, only three are utilized in Holly Ridge. These three are included here while the other two are discussed in the text. It is the intent of the land classification system to give Federal and State agencies guidance in reviewing proposals for the spending of federal or state money in Holly Ridge. For example, a proposal to extend water or sewer facilities into an area designated rural would not likely be approved because such an exten- sion could have an adverse effect on the area. Also such a classification system is a good guide for local governments to utilize in their own development guidance program.