Land Use Plan Update-1999

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LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
TOWN OF MOREHEAD CITY
NORTH CAROLINA
Adopted by the Morehead City Town Council: May 25, 1999
Certified by the Coastal Resources Commission: May 28, 1999
Prepared by
THE WOOTEN COMPANY
Engineering•Planning•Architecture
Raleigh/Greenville/Hickory/Asheboro, North Carolina
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, as amended, which
is administered by the Ofice of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration.

LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
TOWN OF MOREHEAD CITY
NORTH CAROLINA
Adopted by the Morehead City Town Council: May 25, 1999
Certified by the Coastal Resources Commission: May 28, 1999
Prepared by
THE WOOTEN COMPANY
Engineering•Planning•Architecture
Raleigh/Greenville/Hickory/Asheboro, North Carolina
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, as amended, which
is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.000 INTRODUCTION AND EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................ 1-1
1.100 Purpose, Goals, and Objectives..................................................................
1-1
1.200 Overview of the Land Use Plan Update........................................................
1-1
1.300 Summary of Land Use Issues.....................................................................
1-3
1.400 Summary of Data Collection and Analysis .....................................................
1-5
1.500 Summary of Policy Statements..................................................................
1-10
1.600 Summary of Land Classifications...............................................................
1-12
1.700 Implementation and Management Strategies ..................................................
1-13
2.000 DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS.............................................................
2-1
2.100 Existing Conditions................................................................................
2-1
2.110 Population................................................................................... 2-1
2.111 Population Sue and Growth Trends ............................................. 2-1
2.112 Age Composition and Distribution ............................................... 2-2
2.113 Racial Composition................................................................
2-3
2.114 Household Population............................................................. 2-3
2.120 Economy..................................................................................... 2-3
2.121 Employment......................................................................... 2-3
2.122 Income Characteristics............................................................
24
2.123 Trade and Services.................................................................
2-5
2.124 Tourism..............................................................................
2-5
2.125 Commercial Fishing................................................................
2-6
2.126 Port of Morehead City.............................................................
2-7
2.130 Existing Land Use..........................................................................
2-7
2.131 Neighborhood 1....................................................................
2-9
2.132 Neighborhood 2...................................................................2-10
2.133 Neighborhood 3...................................................................2-11
2.134 Neighborhood 4...................................................................
2-13
2.135 Neighborhood 5...................................................................
2-15
2.136 Neighborhood 6...................................................................
2-16
2.137 Neighborhood 7...................................................................
2-18
2.138 Neighborhood 8...................................................................
2-19
2.139 Neighborhood 9...................................................................
2-21
2.139.1 Summary of Existing Land Use Conditions ........................
2-22
2.140 Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations Affecting Land Use .....................
2-26
2.141 Thoroughfare Plan ................................................................
2-26
2.142 Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post Disaster Reconstruction Plan..........
2-27
2.143 Zoning Ordinance.................................................................
2-27
2.144 Subdivision Regulations..........................................................
2-27
2.145 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance ..........................................
2-27
2.146 Water and Sewer Impact Fee Ordinance .......................................
2-27
2.147 Water and Sewer Extension Policy .............................................
2-27
2.148 Building Codes.....................................................................
2-28
2.149 Capital Facilities Plans...........................................................
2-28
2.150 Downtown Improvement Program ..............................................
2-28
Table of Contents -May 28, 1999
tMorehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update i

' 2.160 Ordinance Administration........................................................ 2-29
2.200 Constraints to Land Development...............................................................
2-30
2.210 Land Suitability ............................................................................2-30
2.211 Physical Limitations for Development .........................................
2-30
2.211.1 Hazard Areas...........................................................
2-30
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2.211.2 Soil Limitations.........................................................
2-31
2.211.3 Availability and Quality of Water Supply ..........................
2-34
2.211.4 Areas with Excessive Slope and High Erosion Potential.........
2-35
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2.211.5 Water Quality Conditions.............................................2-35
2.211.6 Water Quality Classes and Standards ...............................
2-38
2.211.7 Water Quality Use -Support Ratings .................................
2-38
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2.212 Fragile Areas ..................................
240
2.212.1 Areas of Environmental Concern ....................................
2-40
2.212.2 Other Fragile Areas....................................................242
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2.213 Areas with Resource Potential ...................................................
243
2.220 Carrying Capacity Analysis..............................................................
243
2.221 Urban Services.....................................................................
2-43
2.221.1 Water Service...........................................................2-43
2.221.2 Sewer.....................................................................2-45
2.221.3 Police Protection.......................................................
247
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2.221.4 Fire Protection..........................................................2-48
2.221.5 Emergency Medical Services .........................................
2-48
2.221.6 Solid Waste Collection and Disposal ................................
248
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2.221.7 Recreation...............................................................
248
2.221.8 Education................................................................
2-49
2.221.9 Public Administration Ability ........................................
249
2.222 Transportation Services ' ........................................................ 2-50
2.230 Estimated Demand .......... .. 2-51
2.231 Population Projections............................................................2-51
1 2.232 Economic Outlook................................................................. 2-51
2.233 Future Land Needs................................................................ 2-52
2.234 Summary of Community Facilities Needs ..................................... 2-52
3.000 POLICY STATEMENTS................................................................................. 3-1
3.100 Analysis of Policy Statements in the 1986 CAMA Plan ...................................... 3-2
' 3.110 Former Resource Protection Policies .................................................... 3-2
3.120 Former Resource Production and Management Policies ............................. 3-3
3.130 Former Economic and Community Development Policies ........................... 3-3
' 3.200 Development of Updated Resource Protection Policies ...................................... 3-5
3.210 Constraints to Land Development....................................................... 3-5
3.211 Flood Hazard Areas................................................................ 3-5
' 3.212 Soil Suitability/Septic Tank Use ................................................. 3-6
3.220 Areas of Environmental Concern ........................................................ 3-7
3.221 Coastal Wetlands................................................................... 3-7
' 3.222 Estuarine Waters and Public Trust Areas ....................................... 3-7
3.223 Estuarine Shoreline ..................... 3-8
3.230 Other Fragile Areas........................................................................ 3-8
' 3.231 Sound and Estuarine System Islands ............................................ 3-8
' Table of Contents —May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update ii

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3.240
3.250
3.260
3.270
3.280
3.232 Freshwater Wetlands............................................................... 3-8
3.233 Historical and Archaeological Sites .............................................. 3-9
Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Needs and Plans .................................... 3-9
Potable Water Supply Protection......................................................... 3-9
Use of Package Treatment Plants........................................................ 3-9
Stormwater Runoff, Water quality Problems and Management Measures ....... 3-10
Marina and Floating Home Development ............................................
3.290 Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas ...................................................
3.290.1 Sea Level Rise Impacts.......................................................
3.290.2 Bulkhead Installation Damage to Marshes .................................
3.300 Development of Updated Resource Production and Management Policies ..............
3.310 Productive Agricultural Lands.........................................................
3.320 Commercial Forest Lands...............................................................
3.330 Mineral Production Areas...............................................................
3.340 Commercial and Recreational Fisheries ...............................................
3.350 Off -Road Vehicles........................................................................
3-11
3-12
3-12
3-12
3-12
3-13
3-13
3-13
3-13
3-13
3.360 Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Land Development
Impactson Resources..................................................................... 3-13
3.370 Peat or Phosphate Mining Impacts on Resources ..................................... 3-14
3.400 Development of Economic and Community Development Policies ........................ 3-14
3.410 General Land Development Policies .................................................... 3-14
3.420 Desired Types of Urban Growth Patterns ............................................. 3-15
3.430 Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development ......................... 3-16
3.440 Redevelopment of Developed Areas .................................................... 3-17
3.450 Commitment to State and Federal Programs .......................................... 3-17
3.460 Assistance to Channel Maintenance Projects .......................................... 3-18
3.470 Energy Facility Siting and Development ............................................... 3-18
3.480 Tourism.....................................................................................3-18
3.490 Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access ........................................... 3-18
3.490.1 Anticipated Residential Development and Requisite Support
Services.......................................................................... 3-19
3.490.2 Other Identified Local Land Development Issues ......................... 3-19
3.490.21 Neighborhood 1................................................... 3-19
3.490.22 Neighborhood 2................................................... 3-20
3.490.23 Neighborhood 3................................................... 3-20
3.490.24 Neighborhood 4................................................... 3-21
3.490.25 Neighborhood 5................................................... 3-21
3.490.26 Neighborhood 6................................................... 3-22
3.490.27 Neighborhood 7................................................... 3-22
3.490.27 Neighborhood 8................................................... 3-23
3.490.27 Neighborhood 9................................................... 3-24
3.500 Development of Updated Continuing Public Participation Policies ........................ 3-24
3.600 Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans ............... 3-25
3.700 Proposed Implementation Methods............................................................. 3-28
3.800 Intergovernmental Coordination and Implementation.............. ........................... 3-29
4.000 LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM.................................................................. 4-1
4.100 Land Classifications............................................................................... 4-1
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4.110 Developed Classification.................................................................. 4-1
4.120 Urban Transition Classification.......................................................... 4-1
4.130 Limited Transition Classification........................................................ 4-2
4.140 Community Classification................................................................. 4-2
4.150 Rural Classification ........................................................................ 4-2
4.160 Rural with Services Classification....................................................... 4-2
4.170 Conservation Classification............................................................... 4-2
4.200 Uses Included In Each Classification............................................................ 4-3
4.210 Developed Classification.................................................................. 4-3
4.220 Urban Transition Classification.......................................................... 4-3
4.230 Limited Transition Classification........................................................ 4-4
4.240 Conservation Classification............................................................... 4-4
4.300 Land Classification Map........................................................................... 4-5
4.310 Developed Classification.................................................................. 4-5
4.320 Urban Transition Classification.......................................................... 4-5
4.330 Limited Transition Classification........................................................ 4-5
4.340 Conservation Classification............................................................... 4-5
4.400 Relationship of Policy Statements and Land Classifications ................................. 4-7
4.410 Developed Classification.......................................................................... 4-7
4.420 Transition Classifications.......................................................................... 4-7
4.430 Conservation Classification....................................................................... 4-7
LIST OF TABLES
Table
1
Population Size, Population Growth Rates ..................................................... 2-1
2
Travel -Related Employment, Expenditures & Tax Receipts .................................
2-6
3
Commercial Seafood Landings...................................................................
2-7
4
Existing Land Use, Neighborhood 1...........................................................2-10
5
Existing Land Use, Neighborhood 2...........................................................2-11
6
Existing Land Use, Neighborhood 3...........................................................2-12
7
Existing Land Use, Neighborhood 4...........................................................
2-14
8
Existing Land Use, Neighborhood 5...........................................................
2-16
9
Existing Land Use, Neighborhood 6...........................................................
2-17
10
Existing Land Use, Neighborhood 7...........................................................
2-19
11
Existing Land Use, Neighborhood 8...........................................................
2-20
12
Existing Land Use, Neighborhood 9...........................................................
2-21
13
Land Use By Type and Acreage, Morehead Planning Jurisdiction, 1997 ................
2-22
14
Percentage of Developed Acreage by Neighborhood ........................................
2-25
15
Ground Water Sources, Town of Morehead City, 1996....................................
2-34
16
Water Quality Classifications and Standards ..................................................
2-40
17
Average Daily Traffic, U.S. 70.................................................................2-50
18
Description of Hurricane Categories...........................................................
3-26
Table ofContents—May 28, 1999
' Morehead City C,4M4 Land Use Plan Update iv

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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure
1
General Location Map.............................................................................
1-2
2
Neighborhood Planning Areas....................................................................
2-8
3
Existing Land Use.................................................................................2-23
4
Estuarine Shoreline AEC.........................................................................2-32
5
General Location of Soils With Severe Limitations for Building Site Development
and Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems .....................................................
2-33
6
Closed Shellfishing Areas........................................................................
2-37
7 .
Water Quality Use Classes.......................................................................2-39
7.1
Water Quality Use -Support Ratings............................................................2-41
8
Existing Community Facilities...................................................................2-44
9
Existing & Proposed Water & Sewer Service Areas .........................................
2-46
10
Composite Hazards Map.........................................................................
3-27
11
Land Classification Map...........................................................................
4-6
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix
AIndex
of Data Sources............................................................................. A-1
B
Population Size and Growth Rates...............................................................
A-3
C
Comparison of Morehead City's Population Growth Rate With Selected
Coastal Municipalities............................................................................. A-4
D
Comparison of Morehead City's Population Growth With Selected
Municipalities in the Region......................................................................
A-5
E
Components of Population Change —Carteret County and North Carolina ................
A-6
F
Population Density —Morehead City and Selected Municipalities in the Region .........
A-7
G
Age Distribution, Historical and Projected.....................................................A-8
HMedian
Age of the Population..................................................................
A-10
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Racial Composition of the Population.........................................................
A-11
IHousing
Characteristics.........................................................................
A-12
K
Employment By Industry Group...............................................................
A-14
L
Major Manufacturing Employers..............................................................
A-16
MCommuting
Patterns..............................................................................
A-17
NEmployment
by Industry Group................................................................
A-18
OIncome
Characteristics...........................................................................
A-19
PRetail
Sales........................................................................................
A-20
QService
Industries.................................................................................
A-22
R
Distribution of Total Acreage by Land Use Category and Neighborhood ...............
A-23
SHousing
By Structure Type.....................................................................
A-24
T
Authorized Residential Construction by Building Permit ...................................
A-25
U
Soil Limitations for Selected Land Uses ......................................................
A-26
VPopulation
Projections...........................................................................
A-28
W
Future Residential Land Needs.................................................................
A-29
X
Summary of Alternative Policy Issues Which Were Considered But Not Developed
Into Policy Statements...........................................................................
A-30
Y
Public Participation Process....................................................................
A-31
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Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update v

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' Z Summary of Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post -Disaster Reconstruction
PlanPolicies....................................................................................... A-33
' AA Glossary ............................................................................................ A-34
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Table of Contents May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update vi

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1.000 Introduction
and
Executive Summary
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1.000 INTRODUCTION AND EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
' 1.100 Purpose, Goals, and Objectives
Land development generally involves a series of decisions by both private individuals and
' the public sector. In order to promote the public interest in the land development process, the
North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (LAMA) requires that local governments prepare,
adopt, and keep current a land use plan. The land use plan is intended to provide a framework
that will guide local governmental officials as they make a day -today and long-range decisions
that affect land development. The land use plan will also be used by state and federal agencies in
making project consistency, project funding, and CAMA permit decisions.
CAMA regulations require that an update be made of land use plans every five years.
The Town of Morehead City's previous land use plan was updated in 1991. The update is
' designed to ensure that all current land development issues are reviewed and reflected in the land
use plan. The land use plan update also provides an opportunity to evaluate policy statements and
to determine their effectiveness in implementing the land development objectives of the
community. The study area for this land use plan update is the Morehead City Planning
Jurisdiction which includes the Town of Morehead City and its approximate two-mile
extraterritorial planning and zoning jurisdiction (see Figure 1). The town's extraterritorial
' planning and zoning jurisdiction has been extended since the 1991 land use plan was prepared.
The planning period for the land use plan update is ten years.
' The goals and objectives of the land use plan update include:
• To identify and analyze new and emerging land use issues and concerns.
' • To reexamine existing policies to determine their effectiveness.
• To revise existing policies and develop new policies that address current land use
issues and concerns.
• To reexamine the existing land classification system and map to determine what
' revisions are necessary to address new land use issues and concerns as well as
revised and newly developed policy statements.
• To further explore implementation strategies.
• To promote a better understanding of the land use planning process.
• To promote citizen involvement in the process of preparing the update.
1.200 Overview of the Land Use Plan Update
' This land use plan update for Morehead City follows the methodology recommended by
CAMA in its Land Use Planning Guidelines (Subchapter 7B of the North Carolina Administrative
Code). Section 2.00 of this land use plan involves an analysis of existing conditions in Morehead
' City including population, economy, and land use as well as an analysis of plans and regulations
that affect land use. Demographic, economic, and land use trends are identified and their
implications for the future use of land are analyzed. Section 2.000 also provides a description of
1.000 Introduction —May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-1

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The preparatlomof this mapwas financed In part \
through.a.graM provldeQ Oy-the NMh Eatdlna
1Coait'aIManagemeM Prohgram, through the funds \
provid Dy the Nbrth-Carolina Coastal Management Act
'1ti7T, as amendM, vihkh is a`dminist,4diby the
lMltt W'Oceartand-Coastal-Resource Management, ' wT p i i ,� : O
Natbnal (7ceanit grid Atmos heik Adminlstratlon. y� e w p V B
° 03020106030030\ r \
03020106030040
l\ /0 `\\
4s, \\ \
°03020106030070
7
0302010603002
1 0 Morehead City
O� Beaufort
03020a06030060 /
r �
.� 0302010604001 Q
Bogue Sound
03020106040022
Atlantic Beach
Pine Knoll Shores
Atlantic Ocean
Figure 1
N General Location Map
W E LEGEND W'Dow
---- ETJ ConWrn of
S city Limits
2 = Morehead City
1
— — - Watershed Boundaries
Miles 03020106030070 Watershed Number -' 6/4/98-
1

' the major constraints to land development in the Morehead City area. The general suitability of
land for development is analyzed and includes a discussion of physical limitations for
development, fragile land and water areas, and areas with resource potential. The analysis of
land suitability is particularly useful in preparing the land classifications which are discussed in
Section 4.000. Existing community facilities and municipal services are also reviewed and
summarized in Section 2.000. An evaluation of Morehead City's ability to provide basic
municipal services is made following an analysis of population projections and future land
demands. The data analyzed in Section 2.000 provide important information upon which
' policy decisions are based. Data sources utilized in the preparation of this land use plan update
are summarized in Appendix A.
' Section 3.000 contains an evaluation of the 1991 Land Use Plan policy statements and
outlines policies designed to address land development and growth management issues identified
through the analysis of existing factors that affect land use. Policy statements concerning resource
protection, resource production and management, economic and community development
(including neighborhood -oriented land use policies), public participation, and storm hazard
mitigation, post -disaster recovery, and evacuation are delineated in this section. The policies are
intended to establish guidelines to be utilized by the town in making day -today local planning
decisions and by state and federal agencies in project consistency, project funding, and permit
decisions. The policy statements were developed based upon the previously described analysis of
' existing conditions, land use trends, and constraints to land development as well as citizen input
obtained through the town's public participation process.
The land classification system described in Section 4.000 provides a means of assisting in
the implementation of the land development policy statements. The land classification system
provides a basic framework for identifying the future use of land and illustrates the town's policies
' as to where and to what density it wants growth to occur. The land classification system also
delineates where the town wants to conserve natural and cultural resources. Section 4.000
provides a description of the land uses proposed within each land classification. The land
classification map presented in this section graphically illustrates the land classification system as
applied to the Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction
1.300 Summary of Land Use Issues
The major land use and development issues identified during the preparation of this land
' use plan update that will affect Morehead City during the next ten year period include the
following (not presented here in any priority order):
' Resource Protection Issues
• Stormwater runoff impacts.
' • Water quality of surface and ground waters.
• Options for the use of Sugarloaf Island.
• The potential economic and environmental impacts of deepening Calico Creek.
• Long-term solutions to wastewater treatment and disposal.
• The demand for and impacts of marinas.
' • The conservation of Phillips Island and the Newport Marshes.
1.000 Introduction—May18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-3

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• Preservation of wetlands.
• The implications of anticipated sea level rise.
• The designation of a portion of Calico Creek as a primary nursery area.
Resource Production and Management Issues
• The impact of land development activities on marine fisheries.
• Off -road vehicle use in fragile environments.
• Siltation problems on the Newport River.
• The presence of prime agricultural land and commercial forest land in the
Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction.
• The designation of a portion of Calico Creek as a primary nursery area.
Economic and Community Development Issues
• Maintaining low residential densities.
• The impacts of high-rise development.
• Redevelopment of the downtown area.
• Managing infill development in established residential areas.
• Commercial land use encroachment in residential areas.
• The economic impact of the NC State Port.
• Managing strip commercial development adjacent to US 70.
• The impact of tourism on Morehead City.
• Improvements to major thoroughfares.
• Promoting voluntary annexations.
• Annexation agreements with the Towns of Newport and Beaufort
• Water and sewer extensions and agreements.
• Coordination of comprehensive stormwater management practices and policies
with adjoining local governments.
• Regional solutions to wastewater disposal needs.
• The potential economic impact of future development on Calico Bay.
• Protection of the Norfolk -Southern Railroad corridor.
• Provision of waterfront access.
• Annexation of outlying, developed areas.
• Promoting industrial development, including industrial park development.
• Expansion of municipal ETJ areas.
• Planning and zoning jurisdiction of Radio Island.
1.000 Introduction —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-4

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' 1.400 Summary of Data Collection and Analysis
' The data analyzed in Section 2.000 were collected from a wide variety of sources (see
Appendix A, Index of Data Sources) including published documents, governmental and private
organizations, and individuals. Printed and digital map data were utilized in the preparation of
this section of the plan. The major conclusions resulting from the data collection and analysis
include:
' Population
• The town's population is 7,594, an increase of over 25 percent since 1990.
• While precise data on the population increase attributable to annexation are not
available, annexations since 1980 have resulted in large increases in the size of the
population.
• The town's 1980-1990 growth rate of 38.7 percent was the second highest among
ten selected coastal municipalities and the seventh highest among nineteen cities in
the immediate region surrounding Morehead City. Between 1990 and 1996,
Morehead City's ranking remained the second highest among the ten selected
coastal cities but jumped to third place among the nineteen cities in the immediate
region.
' • Carteret County's growth rate between 1980 and 1990 placed it as the 5th fastest
growing county in North Carolina. Carteret County's growth is attributable in
' large part to heavy migration into the area. In 1990, the county's net migration rate
of 21.5 % was substantially higher than that of counties in the region and that of the
state.
' • In 1990, Morehead City contained 2,325 persons per square mile. This population
density was higher than the density of all selected municipalities in the region.
' • While seasonal and recreational population is an important part in the overall
population of Carteret County, it does not have a significant impact on the total
population of Morehead City.
' • In 1990, Morehead City had a much higher proportion of retirement -aged persons
(65 years and older) and a lower proportion of school -aged persons (18-24 years)
and working -aged persons (25-64 years) than both Carteret County and the state.
• The town's median age in 1990 was considerably higher that the national, state, and
county medians. The town's higher median age is attributable to a variety of
' factors including the natural aging of the population and an influx of retirement -
aged persons.
• The town's minority population is lower than that of the state as a whole (24.5°%)
but considerably higher than that of Carteret County (9.7%). Long-term trends
indicate that the minority population in Morehead City has increased slightly each
decade since 1960.
' • Morehead City's household population size, like that on the national level, has been
steadily decreasing. In 1970, Morehead City had an average of 2.99 persons per
' household. By 1990, the figure had decreased to 2.15 persons, a lower household
1.000 Introduction—May28, 1999
' Morehead City C4MALand Use Plan Update 1-5

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population average than Carteret County (2.43 persons) and the state as a whole
(2.54 persons). The
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households increases .
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average household population is projected to decline even
I family size decreases and the number of single -person
Economy
• The economy of Morehead City and Carteret County is based largely on retail
trade, services, tourism, commercial fishing, port activities, manufacturing, and
agriculture. Morehead City is the largest municipality in Carteret County and is the
retail and commercial services center for the county.
• In 1990, the wholesale and retail trade and services sectors accounted for almost 60
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percent of Morehead City's total employment. Other large employers were the
manufacturing; governmental; and finance, insurance and real estate sectors. The
'
largest employment sectors in Carteret County in 1990 generally paralleled those of
Morehead City, with the services, trade, and governmental sectors accounting for
the largest number of employees.
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• Manufacturing employment in Morehead City in 1990 accounted for just under 9
percent of all employed persons, slightly lower than the county figure of almost 9.2
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percent and substantially lower than the statewide average of approximately 27
percent.
• In 1990, the per capita income in Morehead City was $11,410 compared to
$13,227 for all of Carteret County and $12,885 statewide. Projections indicate that
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while the per capita income in Carteret County will increase in future years, it will
continue to remain below that of the state as a whole.
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• In 1992, Morehead City accounted for 37 percent of all retail establishments in the
county and 47 percent of all persons employed in the retail sector.
• Travel and tourism contribute substantially to the economy of Morehead City and
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Carteret County. The secondary effects of travel and tourism also have a major
impact on the local economy of Morehead City and Carteret County.
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• Carteret County led the state in 1995 in total seafood landings and total value of
seafood landings. Carteret County has consistently been the statewide leader in
total seafood landings since 1977.
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• It has been estimated that, in fiscal year 1993/1994, the economic impact of the
port facility to the multi -county Planning Region P, which includes Carteret
County, includes $17.1 million in income, $68.2 million in sales, and $2.2 million
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in state and local taxes.
1 Land Use
• The majority of the developed land in the Morehead City area is used for residential
purposes. Public, institutional, and recreational land uses account for over 17
1 percent of all developed land. Commercial and industrial uses comprise 9 and 5
percent, respectively, of all developed acreage.
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1 1.000 Introduction —May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA land Use Plan Update 1-6

' • Vacant land makes up over 53 percent of the total acreage of the Morehead City
planning jurisdiction.
' • Neighborhoods 7, 6, 9 and 2 are the areas in which residential uses occupy the
highest percentage of developed land.
' • Because of the large amounts of vacant land in Neighborhoods 8 and 7, these two
neighborhoods have the greatest potential for future residential development,
particularly low -density, single-family development.
' • The greatest amount of commercially -used land is found in Neighborhoods 8, 4,
and 1. Neighborhoods 3, 4, and 8 appear to contain the greatest amount of land for
' future commercial growth areas.
• Industrial land uses are primarily located in Neighborhood 1 (the state port facility).
Future industrial development can most likely be accommodated in portions of
' Neighborhoods 4 and 8. Carteret County is currently marketing a newly developed
industrial park that is located in Neighborhood 8.
' • The Morehead City planning jurisdiction is located within three 14digit watersheds
(1/03020106030070, #0302016030010, and #03020106030060) as delineated by the
US Natural Resource Conservation Service). The vast majority of the town's
' planning jurisdiction is, however, located with watershed #03020106030070.
• Neighborhood 5 contains almost 30 percent of all land used for residential
purposes. Neighborhood 5 also contains the largest amount of public, institutional,
' and recreational land, due primarily to the location of the country club and golf
course in that neighborhood. The greatest number of commercially -used acreage is
found in Neighborhoods 8, 1, and 4. Because of the port facilities being situated in
' Neighborhood 1, that neighborhood accounts for almost 78 percent of all industrial
acreage. Neighborhoods 8 , 7, and 5 contain the greatest amounts of vacant
acreage.
' • A closer evaluation of residential uses indicates that 59 percent of all dwelling units
are single-family detached structures. Multi -family residences (including group
quarters) make up 30 percent of the total housing stock and manufactured homes,
11 percent.
• Based upon recent estimates of population, dwelling units, and acreage, the most
densely populated areas are Neighborhoods 1, 2, and 3. The highest housing and
population densities are found in the older, established sections of town. Densities
basically decrease as the distance from the central business district increases.
' • There have been no significant changes in land use since the 1991 CAMA Land
Use Plan Update. The town has, however, expanded its corporate limits and its
extraterritorial planning jurisdiction, principally to the west and north, to
encompass approximately 3,850 additional acres.
' Constraints To Development
• Natural hazard areas within the town's planning jurisdiction include floodable
areas. The primary threat of flooding is due to the effects associated with hurricane
' storm surge.
1.000 Introduction —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMALand Use Plan Update 1-7

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• Man-made hazard areas in Morehead City include the Norfolk -Southern Railroad,
bulk petroleum products storage facilities, and the port facility.
• Morehead City receives its water supply from four deep wells. The town has
always depended on deep wells for its water supply and, to date, has faced no
major water shortage. The construction of a fifth well is currently under contract.
• The town's average daily excess capacity is approximately 700,000 gpd. The
present water supply is considered adequate to serve the anticipated water needs
throughout the study period.
• Within the Morehead City planning jurisdiction, the primary water pollution
sources of estuarine waters are estimated to be multiple nonpoint sources including
agriculture, forestry, urban runoff, septic tank runoff, and marinas and point
sources like the Morehead City W WTP and the state port.
• The main reasons for closures in shellfish waters in the 050330 subbasin (based
upon DEH Shellfish Sanitation Reports) are elevated fecal coliform levels. The
activities that contribute to this condition include, but are not limited to,
construction, urban stormwater, failing septic systems, forestry, and agricultural
activities.
• The NC Division of Water Quality has classified the waters in the Morehead City
area as SC, SB, and SA.
• Areas of Environmental Concern within the Morehead City planning jurisdiction
include coastal wetlands, estuarine waters and public trust areas, and the estuarine
shoreline. Development within the designated areas of environmental concern is
limited by CAMA regulations and development guidelines. Other fragile natural
areas include freshwater wetlands and estuarine islands.
Carrying Capacity
' • Public water service is provided to the majority of the study area by the Town of
Morehead City. A private water company, Carolina Water Company, serves a
portion of the town's western planning jurisdiction along US Highways 70 and 7.4.
t Private wells are utilized for water supply by those persons that are not served by
the Town of Morehead City or the Carolina Water Company.
' • The majority of the Morehead City urban area is provided sewer service by the
Town of Morehead City. Individual septic systems are also utilized by some
residents within the study area.
' • Morehead City is committed to the long-term goal, as outlined in the Carteret
County Sewer EIS, of eliminating its estuarine discharge into Calico Creek.
However, the town is under no state mandate at this time to do so nor does the EIS
' mandate such.
• The Town of Morehead City operates under a council-manager form of
' government. The town has a municipal staff of 98 employees that perform general
administration, public works, public utilities, police, fire protection, emergency
medical, recreation, planning, and building inspection services. The current
1.000 Introduction May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-8

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staffmg level is considered sufficient to provide the level of municipal services
necessary to meet current and anticipated demand.
• The 1996 North Carolina Department of Transportation's Transportation
Improvements Program (TIP) lists two major highway projects that impact
Morehead City. One, the Bridges Street Extension from the current terminus at
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Arendell Street westward to the US Highway 701NC Highway 24 intersection area,
was completed in 1998. The second highway improvements project listed in the
TIP involves the multi -lane widening of NC Highway 24 from Swansboro to US
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Highway 70 at Morehead City. Portions of this proposed improvement are
currently under construction. Completion of the entire project is anticipated in
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2001.
Estimated Demand and Future Land Needs
• The town's population is projected to increase during the planning period from
7,539 in 1995 to 8,582 in 2005. Morehead City's projected growth rate is slightly
higher than that anticipated for the state as a whole.
'
• The economy of Morehead City and Carteret County is expected to remain based
on retail trade, services, tourism, commercial fishing, and manufacturing.
'
Morehead City's employment is expected to continue to be centered around the
services, retail trade, government, manufacturing and transportation sectors of the
economy.
• Based upon projected population increases and housing distribution demand, it is
anticipated that an additional 485 residential units will be needed through the end of
the 10-year planning period.
'
• Based upon population projections and estimates of land needs, no additional major
community facilities will be required during the 10-year study period to
accommodate the anticipated growth. Public water system improvements, which
'
will be needed, include a 500,000-gallon elevated storage tank and a new 1.0 MGD
well. Public sewer improvements planned during the study period include
replacements and improvements to the wastewater treatment plant and building
additions to the laboratory. The town is committed to the long-term goal of
eliminating its estuarine discharge into Calico Creek. The town will investigate
alternatives to its estuarine discharge and will comply with any future state
mandates.
• As a result of annexations that have expanded the town to the west, the town will
need to provide a new fire station to maintain its present fire insurance rating unless
'
one of the existing fire stations is relocated. In order to provide outdoor recreation
space, as recommended by national standards, the town currently needs an
additional 16 to 40 acres of outdoor space to meet existing demand and 6 to 10
'
acres to meet the outdoor space needs of the projected population increase during
the study period.
1.000 Introduction May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMALand Use Plan Update 1-9

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1 1.500 Summary of Policy Statements
The issues delineated in Section 1.300 were discussed in the formulation of policy
statements which are outlined in detail in Section 3.00. The town did not develop any policy
statements that impose additional local requirements for Areas of Environmental Concern which
' would be more restrictive than the CAMA minimum use standards. Many of the policy
statements from the previous plan (1991 land use plan update) have been retained. The town's
overall general policy concerning resource protection is to give the highest priority to the
protection and management of the area's natural resources, to safeguard and perpetuate their
biological, social, economic, and aesthetic values, and to ensure that development occurring
within natural resource areas is compatible with the characteristics of the natural areas so as to
t minimize the likelihood of significant loss of private property and public resources. It is the
town's intent that its policies concerning resource protection policies be consistent with CAMA
7H Use Standards. The town's overall general policy concerning resource production and
' management is to support the effective management of the area's natural resources so as to ensure
the continued environmental and economic well being of the Morehead City planning jurisdiction.
The town will continue to consider the impacts on local and regional natural resources in all land
development decisions and will seek to improve the cooperation and coordination with other
public and private agencies involved with natural resource production and management. It is the
town's intent that its policies concerning resource production and management be consistent with
' CAMA 7H Use Standards. Morehead City's overall general policy concerning economic and
community development is to consider growth of the community as a desirable objective.
Further, the town will promote only those types of development that do not significantly impact
natural resources and which retain and maintain the town's present character. New policy
statements were developed which address a variety of issues and include:
Resource Protection and Resource Production and Management Policies
• Supporting voluntary annexation requests to facilitate adequate wastewater disposal
' so as to prevent the installation of additional septic tanks and to improve
environmental conditions, particularly in areas with poor soil conditions for
subsurface sewage disposal systems.
1 • Discouraging additional septic system use in areas where municipal sewer service is
currently unavailable by requiring that major subdivisions contact the town during
the subdivision review process to discuss municipal sewer availability and the
' feasibility of extending the town's sewer system to the subdivision.
• Permitting marina construction in primary nursery areas in accordance with the
CAMA 7H Use Standards, local zoning, and other land use regulations (the
' previous town policy was more restrictive than the CAMA standards in that
marinas were not allowed in waters classified as primary nursery areas).
' Promoting flexible options for the use of Sugarloaf Island in accordance with
CAMA minimum use standards, the town's zoning ordinance, and other applicable
town regulations and policies and designating the island as Limited Transition on
' the Land Classification Map (the previous town policy concerning Sugarloaf Island
recommended designating the island as Conservation on the Land Classification
Map and discouraged any use of the island other than that allowed in accordance.
' with the Floodplain Zoning District provisions of the town's zoning ordinance).
1.000 Introduction May 28, 1999
tMorehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-10

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• Promoting water conservation measures through the development of incentive
programs sponsored by the town's public utility department.
' • Continuing to participate in the Carteret County Interlocal Agency and the Regional
Wastewater Task Force to develop long-term solutions to wastewater treatment.
'
•
Encouraging marina siting and design which promotes proper flushing action.
•
Allowing marina construction in primary nursery areas in accordance with CAMA
7H Use Standards, local zoning, and other local land use regulations.
•
Opposing the location of floating structures in primary nursery areas, outstanding
resource waters, public trust areas, and estuarine waters except that floating
'
structures are allowed in marinas where approved sewage hook-ups or self-
contained holding tanks are available.
'
•
Allowing public mooring fields in accordance with CAMA Use Standards.
Economic and Community Development Policies
•
Encouraging voluntary annexations as a mechanism for promoting orderly city
growth and utility extensions.
•
Supporting local intergovernmental cooperation with regard to land use planning
'
issues such as ED areas, Radio Island, annexation agreements, industrial park
development, and utility extensions and agreements.
•
Encouraging high-rise residential development only in locations where emergency
'
services can adequately be provided.
•
Supporting dredging efforts to eliminate the adverse impacts of siltation on the
'
productivity of the Newport River.
•
Encouraging the redevelopment and restoration of the central business district as a
retail, business and professional services, office, and commercial marine center of
'
the community; encouraging a variety of land uses including living space as well as
shopping and services; and promoting the adaptive reuse of existing buildings.
'
•
Continuing to address the parking concerns and issues in the downtown area and
considering alternative traffic patterns as a possible solution to parking concerns.
'•
Working with the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Division of Coastal
Management to extend the Morehead City harborline south of its present location in
order to promote economic development in the downtown area.
•
Promoting the enhancement of the North 20th Street corridor as a major
thoroughfare to improve access to the residential areas located in the northern
section of town.
'
•
Promoting traffic improvements on Tootle Road and Mayberry Loop Road through
roadway realignment and the installation of sidewalks and roadway improvements.
•
Evaluating commercial rezonings that promote neighborhood retail and service uses
'
to monitor their impact on community character and scale.
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1.000 Introduction—May18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-11

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Pursuing the installation of sidewalks and roadway improvements along Barbour
Road and the North 35th Street corridor.
'
•
Limiting curb cuts on the Bridges Street Extension.
•
Evaluating, upon the completion of the Bridges Street Extension, the feasibility of
roadway improvements to Country Club Road and Friendly Road to improve traffic
flow and the feasibility of a connector street west of Friendly Road to connect
Bridges Street Extension and Country Club Road.
'
•
Discouraging nonresidential development adjacent to the Bogue Sound waterfront
within existing residential areas.
•
Working with the North Carolina Department of Transportation to install
landscaping improvements, pedestrian walkways, and bicycle paths from the
NCDOT welcome station to the commercial areas located to the west.
•
Continuing to install water and sewer improvements to newly annexed areas.
•
Striving to improve recreational opportunities through the development of a park in
the western section of town.
•
Encouraging new development along the US Highway 70 corridor to provide
connecting and/or shared parking lots in order to reduce the number of curb cuts
'
along the corridor.
•
Encouraging, in Neighborhood 8, the annexation of areas adjacent to the corporate
limits to promote jobs and economic development.
•
Evaluating the need for water system improvements in Neighborhood 8, including
the installation of an elevated water storage tank, to promote industrial and
economic development.
•
Studying landscaping and curb cut issues along the US Highway 70 and NC
Highway 24 corridors.
in
•
Discouraging further manufactured home park development the Crab Point area.
•
Supporting the construction of interconnecting water mains between Newport and
Morehead City to provide a backup water supply for each community.
•
Encouraging better interconnection between residential developments in
Neighborhood 9 to promote local vehicular access and circulation other than from
'
NC Highway 24.
1.600 Summary of Land Classifications
The land classification map (see Figure 11) includes four land classifications: (i)
' developed; (ii) urban transition (including an urban transition/port subclass); (iii) limited
transition; and (iv) conservation. The land classification map graphically illustrates the locations
of the various classifications. Because of the scale of the land classification map, the conservation
' classifications can not be mapped with any degree of accuracy. Precise locations for some areas
classified as conservation must be determined by field investigation by the appropriate permitting
agency. The general location of the various land classifications are described below.
1.000 Introduction —May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-11

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Developed Classification. The developed classification generally includes all of the land
within the current corporate limits of the Town of Morehead City, with the exception of
Annex Island, as well as the US Highway 70 and NC Highway 24 corridors located west
of and southwest of the city limits. The developed area currently includes a wide variety
of residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional zoning districts. Municipal
services are currently provided to the overwhelming majority of the developed area.
Urban Transition Classification. This classification includes the predominantly
residential areas (both existing and emerging) located on the fringes of the current
Morehead City corporate limits. The urban transition area generally extends from the
western extraterritorial jurisdiction boundary at Hull Swamp eastward to the Crab Point
area. The urban transition/port subclass includes Annex Island which is anticipated to be
used, in part, for port -related activity. Annex Island is currently zoned for industrial use
and is being used as a dredge spoil site. The majority of the area classified as urban
transition is currently zoned R-15, R-20, R-15M, and R-15SM. Portions of the urban
transition area are potential annexation areas. Municipal services are expected to
ultimately be extended into such areas
Limited Transition Classification. The limited transition classification includes the
Morehead City Country Club and Golf Course area, the majority of the eastern portion of
the peninsula between Calico Creek and Dill's Creek, Sugarloaf Island, and the extreme
westernmost portion of the town's ETJ area located west of McCabe Road. Currently,
these areas are primarily zoned R-20, R-15M, FP, and PD.
Conservation Classification. This classification includes the 520-acre Nature
Conservancy tract located in the northwest comer of the planning region as well as
' adjacent wetland areas east of this tract, Phillips Island, the Newport Marshes, and the
extreme westernmost and AECs delineated in Section 4.240. Currently, all of these areas
are zoned FP. Because of the map scale, the conservation classification can not be
1 accurately mapped. The precise location of coastal wetlands, freshwater wetlands, and
the estuarine shoreline must be determined by field investigation. The town concurs with
CAMA AEC standards for properties located in the conservation classification.
' The only major land classification map change involved Sugarloaf Island which was reclassified
from a conservation designation to the limited transition classification. This reclassification was
' consistent with Section 3.230, Policy 1 which promotes more flexible options for the use of the
island. Other changes to the land classification map involved the addition of newly annexed areas
(primarily portions of Neighborhood 8 and the western portions of Neighborhood 6) which are
' designated on the map as the developed classification as well as the addition of the extended
extraterritorial planning and zoning jurisdictional area (primarily the northern portion of
Neighborhood 7, the westernmost portion of Neighborhood 8, and Neighborhood 9) are
designated on the land classification map primarily as developed and urban transition areas.
1.700 Implementation and Management Strategies
' In order to implement the policies outlined in the Land Use Plan Update, the Morehead
City Town Council and Planning Board will utilize the policy statements as one of the bases for
decision -making when land development requests are made. Policy statements will be taken
1.000 Introduction May 28, 1999
Morehead City G1MA Land Use Plan Update 1-13

into consideration when reviewing rezonings, zoning text amendments, special use permits, and
subdivision plats. The Morehead City Board of Adjustment will also review policies outlined
' in this plan prior to making decisions on variances and special uses.
Morehead City will continue to administer and enforce its land use regulatory tools
particularly the Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, and Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance. The town will review the current regulatory tools to eliminate inconsistencies which
may exist between the tools and the policies outlined in this plan. Specifically, Zoning Ordinance
' and Subdivision Regulations amendments which will be investigated in order to implement the
policy statements involving the following topics:
• Stormwater and drainage plan preparation.
'
• Provision of soils data.
• Coordination of development in potential freshwater wetlands areas with the US
'
Army Corps of Engineers.
• Landscaping, buffering, and curb cuts along the US Highway 70 corridor.
• Parking in the downtown area.
• Residential uses in the downtown area.
In addition, the town will review its current water and sewer extension policies for
'
inconsistencies and to ensure the implementation of the adopted land use policies.
The town will ensure a continuous planning process by conducting periodic reviews of
' the Land Use Plan's policies. This review will be the responsibility of the Morehead City
Director of Planning who will coordinate such reviews with the Planning Board and Town
Council.
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Morehead City CAMA land Use Plan Update 1-14

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2.000 DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
The data collected and analyzed in this chapter are designed to provide an information base,
which will be helpful in making policy decisions about future land use and land development in the
Morehead City Planning Region. Existing conditions regarding population, the local economy, land use,
' and current plans and policies that affect land use are described in Section 2.100. Constraints to land
development are discussed in Section 2.200 which includes an analysis of land suitability, the capacity of
Morehead City to provide basic community services, and the anticipated demand on community services.
2.100 Existing Conditions
2.110 Population. Population characteristics which are analyzed in this land use plan
update include population size and growth trends, age distribution, racial composition,
and household population.
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2.111 Population Size and Growth Trends. Morehead City's 1996 municipal
population as estimated by the North Carolina Office of State Planning is 7,594.
The estimated population of the town's planning jurisdiction (the total area within
the town's corporate limits and the extraterritorial planning and zoning
jurisdiction) is 17,200. Table 1 below provides a comparison of the population
size and rates of population growth for Morehead City with those of Carteret
County and the state:
TABLE 1
POPULATION SIZE
' 1960
Morehead City
5,583
5,233
4,359 6,046
7,594
Carteret County
27,438
31,603
41,092 52,553
58,341
North Carolina
4,556,155
5,084,411
5,880,095 6,632,448
7,323,085
POPULATION GROWTH RATES
97980 ' -= 1980 1990 ':-
s "'
199(1 199G � o-
..e...,.w....__. . w.. _._.�...._..
.1. y..__..=..,.0 �. ., ...
. A4 ........... ....�siY. 1 �. _ _ ...n.. ,.i:..
Morehead City
-6.3%
•16.7%
38.7%
25.6%
Carteret County
15.2%
30.0%
27.9%
11.0%
North Carolina
11.6%
15.6%
12.8%
10.4%
Sources: US Census of Population 1960 -1990; NC Municipal Population, NC Office of State Planning, 1997
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-1

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A review of the town's population from 1910 to 1990 indicates a steady,
though fluctuating patter of growth until 1960 [see Appendix B]. Morehead
City's population decreased in size between 1960 and 1980, from 5,583 in 1960
to 4,359 in 1980. From 1980 to 1990, however, the town's population increased
to 6,046, a growth rate of 38.7 percent. While precise data on the population
increase attributable to annexation are not available, annexations since 1980 have
resulted in large increases in the size of the population.
The town's 1980-1990 growth rate of 38.7 percent was the second
highest among ten selected coastal municipalities and the seventh highest among
nineteen cities in the immediate region surrounding Morehead City [see
Appendices C and D]. Between 1990 and 1996, Morehead City's ranking
remained the second highest among the ten selected coastal cities but jumped to
third place among the nineteen cities in the immediate region.
Carteret County's growth rate between 1980 and 1990 placed it as the 5th
fastest growing county in North Carolina. As seen in Appendix E, Carteret
County's growth is attributable in large part to heavy migration into the area. In
1990, the county's net migration rate of 21.5% was substantially higher than that
of counties in the region and that of the state. Projections by the NC Office of
State Planning indicate that Carteret County's net migration rate, while remaining
higher than the statewide and regional rates, will decrease in future years.
In 1990, Morehead City contained 2,325 persons per square mile. This
population density was higher than the density of all selected municipalities in the
region [see Appendix F]. The population density figure in 1990 statewide was
136 persons per square mile and for Carteret County, 99 persons per square mile.
While seasonal and recreational population is an important part in the
overall population of Carteret County, it does not have a significant impact on the
total population of Morehead City. According to the 1990 US Census, Morehead
City had 277 vacant seasonal and migratory housing units. By comparison,
Carteret County had 10,138 such units in 1990. Based upon a January 1996
windshield survey of the town and its planning region, seasonal housing was
determined to be an insignificant portion of the total housing stock, and thus the
population as well. Non -permanent population is perhaps more a factor in
Morehead City in the form of motel population as opposed to seasonal housing
population. The motel population for Morehead City is estimated to be
approximately 1620 people. Such overnight recreational population fluctuates
with the tourist season but does have some influence on the overall population
impacts on public facility needs and public services.
2.112 Age Composition and Distribution. The age composition of Morehead
City's population in 1990 varied from that of the County and the state [see
Appendix G1. Morehead City had a much higher proportion of retirement -aged
persons (65 years and older) and a lower proportion of school -aged persons (18-
24 years) and working -aged persons (25-64 years) than both Carteret County and
the state.
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Long-term demographic projections by the North Carolina Office of State
Planning indicate that the share of the population under the age of 18 years will
decrease slightly, the school -age and working -age population will increase
slightly, and the elderly population will experience the largest growth rate. The
anticipated aging of the population will have long-term implications for health
care services as well as for the housing industry. A greater demand for medical
care, in -home services, institutional care, and housing tailored for the elderly can
be expected in future years.
The population of Morehead City, reflective of the current national trend,
is aging. The median age in Morehead City in 1990 was 36.3 years compared to
a median age of 37.8 years in 1980. The town's median age in 1990 was
considerably higher that the national, state, and county medians [see Appendix
H]. The town's higher median age is attributable to a variety of factors including
the natural aging of the population and an influx of retirement -aged persons.
2.113 Racial Composition. Racial composition data for Morehead City in the
1990 census indicate that the town is 80.7 percent white, 17.6 percent black, and
1.7 percent all other races. The town's minority population is lower than that of
the state as a whole (24.5%) but considerably higher than that of Carteret County
(9.7%). Long-term trends indicate that the minority population in Morehead City
has increased slightly each decade since 1960. Long-term projections forecast a
declining minority population for both Carteret County and the state [see
Appendix 11
2.114 Household Population. Morehead City's household population size,
like that on the national level, has been steadily decreasing. In 1970, Morehead
City had an average of 2.99 persons per household. By 1990, the figure had
decreased to 2.15 persons, a lower household population average than Carteret
County (2.43 persons) and the state as a whole (2.54 persons). The average
household population is projected to decline even further as the overall family
size decreases and the number of single -person households increases [see
Appendix J]. Single -person households in Morehead City in 1990 comprised
over 36 percent of the town's total occupied housing. The continued trend of
fewer persons per household will have an impact on the future types and sizes of
dwelling units.
' 2.120 Economy. The economy of Morehead City and Carteret County is based largely
on retail trade, services, tourism, commercial fishing, port activities, manufacturing, and
agriculture. Morehead City is the largest municipality in Carteret County and is the retail
and commercial services center for the county. The economic indicators reviewed in this
section include employment, income, trade and services, tourism, commercial fishing,
and port activities.
' 2.121 Employment. In 1990, the wholesale and retail trade and services
sectors accounted for almost 60 percent of Morehead City's total employment
flee Appendix K]. Other large employers were the manufacturing;
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-3

governmental; and
finance, insurance and
real estate sectors. The largest
employment sectors
in Carteret County in
1990 generally paralleled those of
Morehead City, with the services, trade, and governmental sectors accounting for
the largest number of employees. When compared to the state, Morehead City's
proportion of workers in the wholesale and retail trade, services, construction,
' and finance/real estate sectors is higher and lower in the agriculture,
manufacturing, and government sectors.
' Governmental employment in the Carteret County area includes
municipal and county employment, state employment, and federal employment.
State employment consists largely of the county school system, a variety of
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university and state government marine research facilities, and Carteret
Community College. Federal employment in Carteret County includes federal
service employees and military employees.
Manufacturing employment in Morehead City in 1990 accounted for just
under 9 percent of all employed persons, slightly lower than the county figure of
almost 9.2 percent and substantially lower than the statewide average of
approximately 27 percent. Major manufacturing employers in the Morehead City
area are delineated in Appendix L.
According to data from the 1990 census, over 27 percent of all employed
residents commuted out of Carteret County to their workplace. The majority of
out -commuters traveled to Craven County (62 percent) and Onslow County (19
percent). In -commuters came primarily from the same two counties: Craven
County (45 percent) and Onslow County (26 percent). Carteret County had more
workers leaving the county (6,828) than it had coming into the county (2,785). A
more detailed explanation of commuting patterns can be found in Appendix M.
Projections made by the North Carolina Office of State Planning indicate
that North Carolina's employment growth is expected to continue to be
consistently higher than the national average through the year 2000. The largest
employment gains are anticipated in the non -manufacturing sector, particularly
the services and trade sectors. The local and state government sector is also
expected to grow significantly as decentralization of the federal government
increases. Specific employment projections for Carteret County by Woods and
Poole Economics [see Appendix N] indicate increases in the wholesale and retail
trade, government, and construction sectors from 1990 and 2010. Employment
decreases are anticipated in the same time period for the agriculture,
manufacturing, and services sectors. Wholesale and retail trade is projected to
continue as the largest single employment sector, followed by the services and
government sectors.
2.122 Income Characteristics. In 1990, the per capita income in Morehead
City was $11,410 compared to $13,227 for all of Carteret County and $12,885
statewide. Although projected data are not available for Morehead City,
projections made for Carteret County provide a good indication of future incomes
that can be expected in the area. Appendix O delineates per capita projections for
1.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-4

Carteret County and North Carolina through 2010. These projections indicate
that while the per capita income in Carteret County will increase in the future
years, it will continue to remain below that of the state as a whole. Mean
household income data are also provided in Appendix O.
' 2.123 Trade and Services. According to the 1992 Census of Retail Trade,
retail sales in Morehead City totaled $214,794,000 or 49 percent of Carteret
County's entire retail sales receipts. As shown in Appendix P, Morehead City
accounted for 37 percent of all retail establishments in the county and 47 percent
of all persons employed in the retail sector. Morehead City's position as the
largest retail center in Carteret County is evidenced by it's dominance in several
retail categories, particularly furniture/home furnishings, general merchandise,
automotive dealers, drug stores, and apparel and accessories. The retail sectors
accounting for the greatest volume of sales receipts in Morehead City include
general merchandise, automotive dealers, food stores, and eating and drinking
places.
' Retail sales projections by Woods and Poole Economics for Carteret
County indicate that, while there will be sizable increases in the volume of retail
sales, the rate of retail sales growth will decrease in future years. Retail sectors
' projected to show proportional increases in total sales include general
merchandise, automobile dealers, eating and drinking places, and miscellaneous
retail stores. These projections are consistent with long-term forecasts by the
North Carolina Office of State Planning which predict somewhat slower
economic growth through the end of this century.
' Morehead City's role as the major services center in Carteret County is
also confirmed by data presented in Appendix Q. In 1992, Morehead City
accounted for 45 percent of all services establishments in Carteret County, 51
percent of all service industry receipts, and 55 percent of all paid service industry
employees. The service industry sectors particularly strong in Morehead City
included health services, business services, legal services, social services, and
automotive repair services. The services sector in Morehead City also includes a
large number of persons employed in the restaurant and accommodations
businesses. Morehead City also dominated the wholesale trade sector of the local
economy as evidenced by the fact that in 1992 the town accounted for 44 percent
of all wholesale establishments in Carteret County, 37 percent of all wholesale
sales, and 41 percent of all wholesale employment.'
' 2.124 Tourism. Travel and tourism contribute substantially to the economy of
Morehead City and Carteret County. The table that follows shows a comparison
' of travel -related employment and expenditures in 1995 for Carteret County,
selected coastal counties, and the state:
' 1992 Census of Wholesale Trade, Census Bureau.
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-5

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TABLE 2
TRAVEL -RELATED EMPLOYMENT, EXPENDITURES, & TAX RECEIPTS
Selected Coastal Counties
1995
Expenditures
Payroll
Local
Tax Receipts
Employment
($ Millions)
($ Millions)
($ moons)
Beaufort
410
38.19
5.50
1.86
Brunswick
3,260
176.22
36.08
9.96
Carteret
3,430
187.26
37.82
9.57
Craven
950
60.01
14.25
1.19
Dare
7,750
349.82
80.00
15.21
New Hanover
4,380
220.91
56.23
7.56
Onslow
1,370
87.2
20.34
2.60
Pamlico
80
9.84
1.21
0.86
North Carolina
161,000
9,195.33
2,590.56
244.61
Source: Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism on North Carolina, US Travel Data Center, 1996.
' In 1995, Carteret County ranked llth in the state in travel -related
expenditures and in travel -related employment. The economic impact of travel
and tourism in Carteret County increased 48 percent from 1989 to 1994; the
' statewide increase during the same period was 32 percent. The greatest effect of
travel spending throughout North Carolina is felt in the foodservice, lodging,
public transportation, and automobile transportation sectors of the economy.
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The secondary effects of travel and tourism also have a major impact on
the local economy of Morehead City and Carteret County. Each travel -related
dollar enters the economy and creates secondary economic impacts. Travel -
related expenditures become wages and salaries, capital to purchase other goods
and services, sales tax, and income tax. The additional travel -related spending
results in the creation of other jobs in the community.
2.125 Commercial Fishing. Carteret County led the state in 1995 in total
seafood landings and total value of seafood landings. Carteret County has
consistently been the statewide leader in total seafood landings since 1977. The
county's share of 1995 seafood landings represented over 23 percent of the entire
state's total commercial dockside value and 45 percent of the statewide landings.
Like the tourism industry, commercial and sport fishing also have a economic
multiplier effect that impacts other sectors of the local economy.
Commercial seafood landings and commercial dockside value data for
selected coastal counties are delineated below in Table 3.
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Table 3
Commercial Seafood Landings
Selected Coastal Counties
1995
Pounds
Value
Beaufort
10,341,860
$ 9,017,387
Brunswick
3,713,685
5,335,044
Carteret
80,721,183
26,029,720
Craven
526,009
512,115
Dare
39,350,171
27,537,823
New Hanover
2,269,979
3,277,344
Onslow
3,419,286
5,529,096
Pamlico
8,673,935
11,018,915
North Carolina
177,705,558
112,214,663
Source: Commercial landings Statistics, North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries.
' 2.126 Port of Morehead City. Data obtained from the North Carolina State
Ports Authority indicate that 88 persons are employed at the Morehead City port
facility. It has been estimated that, in fiscal year 1993/1994, the economic impact
' of the port facility to the multi -county Planning Region P, which includes Carteret
County, includes $17.1 million in income, $68.2 million in sales, and $2.2
million in state and local taxes. According to information provided by the
' Carteret County Tax Office, the privately -owned portion of the port facility
located in Morehead City has an assessed valuation of over $4 million or 1.0
percent of the town's total tax base of approximately $391 million.
' The port facility occupies approximately 172 acres in Morehead City's
planning jurisdiction including the 56-acre Marsh Island (also referred to as
' Annex Island). The terminal includes a shipping channel depth of 45 feet; 5,521
feet of continuous wharf; a dry bulk facility with a 225,000-ton capacity
warehouse, conveyor system, and shiploader; two 115-ton gantry cranes; and
nearly 500,000 square feet of covered, sprinklered storage space. Gross tonnage
handled at the port from 1990 to 1994 has averaged approximately 2.53 million
tons annually. The overwhelmingly majority of the gross tonnage is bulk cargo.
' The major commodities handled at the facility include wood chips, phosphate,
forest products, and fertilizer products.
' 2.130 Existing Land Use. In order to provide a more meaningful analysis of existing
land use conditions in Morehead City and it's extraterritorial planning jurisdiction (ETJ),
the study area was subdivided into nine neighborhood planning areas. The nine
neighborhoods (see Figure 2) represent distinct areas of the study area which have
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 28, 1999
Morehead City C,4M4 Land Use Plan Update 2-7

The preparation or this map was financed In part
Ocean
' B o g u e S o u n d
N
W+E
s
0 2
Miles
Legend
City Limits
--- Neighborhood Boundary
Neighborhood Number
--- Watershed Boundary
! Newport River
Figure 2
Neighborhood
Cw�en Planning Areas
— Morehead City, NC
6/4/98

different land use patterns, constraints to development, potential for growth, and
land development concerns. Neighborhoods 8 and 9 are new neighborhoods
' added since the 1991 Iand Use Plan Update which reflects the town's westward
expansion resulting from annexations and extension of its M. Neighborhood 7
has also been expanded since the 1991 Plan to encompass the entire Crab Point
' peninsula which was recently added to the town's ETJ area. A discussion of land
use conditions in each neighborhood follows as well as a summary evaluation of
the overall land use conditions.
' 2.131 Neighborhood 1. Neighborhood 1 is basically the eastern end of the
peninsula created by Calico Bay, the Newport River, and Bogue Sound.
' Neighborhood 1 consists of the central business district (CBD), the state port
facility located east of downtown, and an older, established residential area north
of downtown. Subareas of Neighborhood 1 include (i) the commercial core of
the CBD located on the north and south sides of Arendell Street (US 70), (ii) the
waterfront commercial district, (iii) the port facility, (iv) the mixed -use Bridges
Street corridor, (v) the residential area between Bridges Street and Calico Bay,
' and (iv) Annex and Phillips Islands in the Newport River and Sugarloaf Island
located in Bogue Sound.
' Neighborhood 1 contains residential units which include a variety of
housing types: single-family detached, single-family attached, and low and high
rise multi -family. Retail, commercial service, and office establishments comprise
the CBD area. The waterfront commercial district on Bogue Sound includes
marinas, fish markets, restaurants, charter fishing boat docks, and general retail.
The Morehead City Yacht Basin is located on Calico Creek just northeast of the
' CBD. The only major industrial use in Neighborhood 1 is the state port facility
which occupies approximately 150 acres at the extreme eastern end of the
peninsula. A smaller industrially -used area is located just northeast of the CBD.
' Public and institutional uses located in this neighborhood include the municipal
building and administrative offices, Cape Lookout High School, two parks, the
US Army Reserve Center, the public library, a post office, and numerous
' churches. The majority of the developed land area in Neighborhood 1 is used for
industrial purposes, followed by residential uses and commercial uses.
Neighborhood 1 contains very little vacant land that is not located within
a floodplain. Consequently, there is very little potential for new construction on
undeveloped land. Growth potential in Neighborhood 1 centers primarily around
' conversion of existing structures to different uses. Sugarloaf and Phillips Islands
are both vacant and, due to flood hazard potential and their inaccessibility to
major urban services, will most likely not be intensively developed in the near
' future. Sugarloaf Island, however, has potential for a variety of land uses.
Annex Island (also known as Marsh Island), which is owned by the NC State
Ports Authority, is also vacant and is used for a dredge spoil site and for wetlands
' mitigation purposes.
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Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-9

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TABLE 4
EXISTING LAND USE
NEIGHBORHOOD 1
Percent of
Percent of
Land Use
Acres
Developed Acreage
Total Acreage
Residential
129
31.9%
15.6
Commercial
73
18.0%
8.9%
Public/Institutionanecreational
28
6.9%
3.4%
Industrial
175
43.2%
21.3%
Vacant
187
0.0%
22.7%
Water
2331
0.0%
28.1%
Totals
823
100.0%
100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company, 1996.
Reflective of the current land use pattern, Neighborhood 1 contains a
variety of zoning classifications. The downtown business area is zoned for a
variety of commercial retail, marine commercial, and professional uses. The
Bridges Street corridor is zoned primarily for office and professional service
uses. The Calico Bay waterfront is zoned as floodplain between 5th and 9th
Streets, port industrial from 5th Street east, and commercial marina between I Ith
and 12th Streets. The port facility and a three -block area between 4th and 5th
streets from the Norfolk -Southern Railroad to Calico Bay is zoned for port
industrial. Neighborhood 1 residential areas are predominantly zoned R5 which
permits a maximum density of eight dwelling units per acre. The existing high-
rise structures located on small tracts on the waterfront east of the CBD are zoned
PD which allows a much higher residential density than the R5 classification.
Sugarloaf and Phillips Islands are zoned for floodplain; Annex Island is zoned for
industrial port use. With the exception of Annex Island, the zoning classifications
in Neighborhood 1 generally parallel current and anticipated land use patterns.
Although Neighborhood 1 is almost totally developed, continuation of
existing land uses or conversion to new land uses are influenced by several
existing natural and man-made features. Influencing features include the Norfolk -
Southern Railroad, US 70, Bridges Street, the port facility, and Bogue Sound and
Calico Bay, including their floodplains. All of these features play an important
role, either positively or negatively, in the future development or redevelopment
of the neighborhood.
2.132 Neighborhood 2. Neighborhood 2 is generally located south of the
Norfolk -Southern Railroad tracts from 9th Street westward to 34th Street. This
neighborhood planning area is overwhelmingly residential in nature and consists
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' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-10

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of three subareas: (i) the waterfront along Bogue Sound, (ii) the south side of the
US 70 corridor, and (iii) the interior blocks between (i) and (ii).
Neighborhood 2 contains primarily residential structures, the vast
majority of which are single-family detached dwellings. A few low density multi-
family units are scattered throughout the neighborhood. The only nonresidential
uses in Neighborhood 2 are several commercial establishments scattered along
Arendell Street in the vicinity of the Atlantic Beach Causeway and on Evans
Street near the CBD, a private school, and several churches. Nonresidential uses
account for only about ten percent of the total area in Neighborhood 2. As in
Neighborhood 1, there is very little vacant land. The vacant land that is present
consists primarily of small building -size lots. Consequently, the growth potential
of Neighborhood 2 basically involves the renovation and/or the reuse of existing
single-family residences.
TABLE 5
EXISTING LAND USE
NEIGBBORHOOD 2
Percent of
Percent of
Land Use
Acres Developed Acreage
Total Acreage
Residential
124 72.1%
71.3%
Commercial
2 1.2 %
1.1 %
Public/Institutional/Recreational
46 26.7%
26.5%
Industrial
0 0.0%
0.0%
Vacant
2 0.0%
1.19.
Totals
174 100.0%
100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company, 1996.
' The zoning pattern in Neighborhood 2 reflects the existing land use
scheme in that almost the entire area is zoned RSS. Single-family residences at a
maximum density of eight dwelling units per acre are permitted by the R5S
zoning category. The small, scattered existing commercial land uses are zoned
for office and professional use.
The existing natural and man-made features that influence Neighborhood
2 include Bogue Sound (including the floodplain), the Norfolk -Southern Railroad,
US 70, the causeway to Atlantic Beach, and the proximity of the central business
district.
2.133 Neighborhood 3. The area generally bounded on the south by the
Norfolk -Southern Railroad tracts, on the west by Barbour Road, on the north by
Calico Creek, and on the east by 14th Street comprises Neighborhood 3. This
neighborhood contains a variety of land uses including single- and multi -family
residences, businesses, industrial establishments, and public and institutional
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-11

tfacilities. The subareas of Neighborhood 3 include: (i) the US 70 corridor, (u)
the Bridges Street corridor, and (iii) the residential areas between Bridges Street
' and Calico Creek.
Approximately three -fourths of residences located in Neighborhood 3 are
' single-family detached housing units. Multi -family residences, including some
public housing units, comprise the remainder of the residential structures.
Several large medium -density apartment developments are scattered throughout
this neighborhood. Commercial establishments are concentrated on the north side
of the Arendell Street (US 70) corridor and in the Bridges Street corridor. The
industrial uses in Neighborhood 3 are located on Bridges Street between 16th and
' 17th Streets and along the railroad spur north of Bridges Street. Public and
institutional uses are scattered throughout the neighborhood and include 3 large
cemeteries, a middle school, municipal facilities, churches, and recreational
' facilities. Vacant land consists chiefly of scattered lots and small parcels, the
largest vacant tract is located west of 25th Street between Avery Street and
Myrtle Street and is owned by the Town of Morehead City. Other undeveloped
' land within Neighborhood 3 is floodable land located along the south bank of
Calico Creek.
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TABLE 6
EXISTING LAND USE
NEIGHBORHOOD 3
Percent of
Percent of
Land Use
Acres Developed Acreage
Total Acreage
Residential
175 60.1%
50.4%
Commercial
27 9.3%
7.8%
Public/Imtitutional/Recreational
84 28.9%
24.2%
Industrial
5 1.7%
1.5%
Vacant
L6 4.0910
16.1%
Totals
347 100.0%
100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company, 1996.
The zoning pattern in this neighborhood is more varied than those
previously discussed. This variety is directly attributed to the multitude of land
uses in Neighborhood 3. Residential zoning classifications include R5 for the
majority of the area and R7 and R10 for small portions of the western sections of
' the neighborhood. The density permitted by these zoning classifications range
from a low of 4 units per acre (R10) to 8 units per acre (115). Commercial
zoning is found in the Arendell Street and Bridges Street corridors and includes
downtown commercial, highway commercial, neighborhood commercial, and
office and professional categories. Interestingly, the commercial zoning pattern
along Bridges Street is in a nodal pattern rather than a continuous strip pattern as
1.000 Data Collection and Analysis May 28, 1999
IMorehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-11

H
' in that portion of Bridges Street located in Neighborhood 1. The small industrial
areas located on Bridges Street are zoned for unoffensive industrial use.
' Due to the unavailability of vacant developable land, the growth potential
of Neighborhood 3 is limited. The major vacant parcels in the neighborhood are
' zoned for residential use (R5 and R7 classifications). Consequently, the potential
for future development appears to be primarily for multi -family residences and, to
a lesser extent, institutional uses and commercial services.
' The natural and man-made features which impact this neighborhood
include Calico Creek and it's floodplain, US 70, Bridges Street, the Norfolk -
Southern Railroad, Morehead Middle School, cemeteries, and the proximity to
the Morehead Plaza shopping center.
' 2.134 Neighborhood 4. Neighborhood 4 is generally bounded on the east by
Barbour Road, 28th Street between Bridges Street and Arendell Street, the
Norfolk -Southern Railroad, and 34th Street; on the south by Bogue Sound; on the
west by properties abutting the western ends of South Street, Guardian Avenue,
and Galantis Drive; and on the north by the Carolina Power and Light Company
transmission line right-of-way. This neighborhood planning area contains a wide
' variety of land uses including large -tract public and institutional, commercial,
single-family and multi -family residential, manufactured home, and, industrial
uses. Subareas of Neighborhood 4 include: (i) the US 70 corridor, (ii) the
' institutional and professional office complex centered around 35th Street and the
community college campus, (iii) the Morehead Plaza shopping center area, and
(iv) the Bridges Street corridor.
The residential dwelling units that are located in Neighborhood 4 consist
primarily of multi -family residences and manufactured homes. This
' neighborhood contains the largest number of multi -family developments which
are concentrated in the Bonner Avenue and Guardian Avenue/Symi Circle areas.
Two large manufactured home parks, containing about 180 units, are situated on
the north side of Bridges Street north of the Camp Glenn School. Scattered
manufactured homes on individual lots are also found throughout Neighborhood
4, particularly in the Maple Lane area. Single-family detached residences,
' located in relatively small pockets of development, round out the residential uses
in this neighborhood. Commercial land use consists of the Morehead Plaza
shopping center, retail and services in the US 70 and Bridges Street corridors,
and the professional office/services concentration located north of the hospital
between Penny Lane and North 35th Street. A small number of light industrial
land uses are located in the vicinity of the Bridges Street and US 70 intersection.
' Major public and institutional uses consist of the Carteret General Hospital,
Carteret Community College, the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
complex, the NC State Seafood Laboratory, Camp Glenn Elementary School,
nursing and health care facilities, the National Guard Armory, a small park with
boat ramp, and an electrical substation. The vacant land located in Neighborhood
4 is primarily in four general areas: a large tract north of US 70 and east of
' Friendly Road, an area west of North 35th Street south of the Carolina Power
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-13

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and Light Company transmission line right-of-way, a tract located on the north
side of Bridges Street between the Glen Grove and Willis Mobile Home Parks,
and a tract located north of Bridges Street and west of Barbour Road. The
majority of the developed acreage in Neighborhood 4 is in residential use.
Nonresidential acreage is fairly evenly distributed between institutional and
commercial land uses.
TABLE 7
EXISTING LAND USE
NEIGHBORHOOD 4
Percent of
Percent of
Land Use
Acres
Developed Acreage
Total
rea e
Residential
150
49.0%
29.9%
Commercial
65
21.2%
13.0%
Public/Imtitutional/Recreational
85
27.8%
16.9%
Industrial
6
2.0%
1.2%
Vacant
J126
0°
Totals
502
100.0%
100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company, 1996.
As in Neighborhood 3, the zoning pattern in Neighborhood 4 is varied
due to the wide array of existing land uses. Overall, the zoning pattern parallels
the existing land use pattern. Residential zoning is comprised of the R15M, R5,
R10, and a limited amount of the R20 classifications. The major multi -family
developments are located in areas that are zoned RMF or Office and Professional.
The residential density permitted in Neighborhood 4 ranges from about 2 units
per acre to 16 units per acre. Commercial zoning consists primarily of the office
and professional, medical arts, community shopping, and highway commercial
classifications. The major vacant parcels in Neighborhood 4 which were
described earlier are zoned primarily for residential (chiefly R5 and R20), office
and professional, and industrial use.
The undeveloped land in this neighborhood has good potential for
medium -density residential and office and professional uses. Given the relatively
large amount of vacant, developable land, the existing supporting infrastructure,
and good vehicular accessibility, Neighborhood 4 appears to have a strong
potential for future growth.
Neighborhood 4 is influenced by a variety of natural and roan -made
factors including US 70, the Norfolk -Southern Railroad, Bridges Street, Bogue
Sound, the CP&L transmission right-of-way, Morehead Plaza shopping center,
the community college, Carteret General Hospital, and the Camp Glenn School.
The proposed Bridges Street Extension will impact the southwestem comer of
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-14

' Neighborhood 4. The presence of wetlands in the western and northwestern
portions of the neighborhood will also have an impact on future land
development.
2.135 Neighborhood 5. Neighborhood 5 is overwhelmingly a single-family
' detached residential area consisting of both well established and newly developing
subdivisions. This neighborhood is generally bounded on the north by the
Newport River, on the east by residential subdivisions abutting the east side of
' Country Club Road, on the south by the CP&L transmission line right-of-way
and the Norfolk -Southern Railroad, and on the west by the town's western
extraterritorial planning and zoning jurisdictional boundary which generally runs
' from the West Carteret High School northward to the Newport River. Unlike the
previously described neighborhood planning areas, Neighborhood 5 currently has
no distinctive subareas other than the individual residential subdivisions and the
' Morehead City Country Club area. However, following the completion of the
Bridges Street Extension through Neighborhood 5, a new commercial area
paralleling this corridor is anticipated. Of all the neighborhood planning areas,
Neighborhood 5 has experienced the largest amount of single-family residential
growth since the completion of the 1991 Land Use Plan Update.
Neighborhood 5 contains mostly residences, 70 percent of which are
single-family detached dwellings. Major residential subdivisions include, Mandy
Farms, Country Club East, Hedrick Estates, Westhaven, Lake and Shore Estates,
' Northwoods, Oaksmith Acres, West Car Meadows, and Creek Pointe. Multi-
family residences are located in apartment developments which are generally
concentrated in two areas: adjacent to North 35th Street south of Mandy Lane
and on the north side of Country Club Road east of West Carteret High School.
Several manufactured homes on individual lots are scattered throughout the
neighborhood. Major commercial development is basically limited to the
' neighborhood -oriented businesses located in the Mandy Park Shopping Center on
North 35th Street at Old Gate Road and to the office development on the north
side of Mandy Lane in the 35th Street Extension intersection area. A small
commercial area has recently developed on Friendly Road just north of the
Norfolk -Southern Railroad. Public, institutional, and recreational uses in this
neighborhood include the Morehead City Country Club and Golf Course, West
Carteret High School, Morehead Primary School, a county -owned park (Swinson
Park), a nursing care facility, and several churches. There are currently no
industrial land uses in Neighborhood 5.
Neighborhood 5 contains a considerable amount of vacant land.
However, the vacant acreage includes the 520-acre nature preserve located in the
' extreme northwestern corner of the neighborhood as well as several hundred
acres of land where wetlands have been identified. Consequently, the vacant land
in Neighborhood 5 is not comprised entirely of vacant, buildable or developable
' land. However, it is estimated that about 25 percent of all vacant land in
Neighborhood 5 is suitable for development purposes. These developable, vacant
tracts are distributed throughout the neighborhood with the larger tracts located
on the east and west sides of Friendly Road north of the Norfolk-Southem
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Railroad, and north of Tootle Road between the Country Club East Subdivision
and North 20th Street.
TABLE 8
EXISTING LAND USE
NEIGHBORHOOD 5
Land Use
Acres Percent of
Percent of
Developed
Acreagg
Total Acreaee
Residential
928
65.0
40.3%
Commercial
16
1.1
0.7 %
Public/Institutional/Recreational
483
33.9
21.0%
Industrial
0
0.0
0.0%
Vacant
874
0..0
38.0%
Totals
2,301
100.0
100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company, 1996.
The majority of land in this neighborhood is zoned for low -density,
single-family and duplex uses (R20) with some small areas being zoned R15 and
R15M. A small amount of property is zoned R5, R7, PD, and RMF which
permits a higher density that ranges from 8 to 16 units per acres. Commercial
zoning is basically limited to those areas that are currently developed for business
purposes. Industrial zoning is found on the north side of the Norfolk -Southern
Railroad on both the east and west sides of Friendly Road. While most of this
particular area is vacant, some commercial development has recently occurred
there. The majority of vacant land in Neighborhood 5 is zoned for residential
use, chiefly R20 which allows 2 dwelling units per acre.
' The growth potential is high in Neighborhood 5 given the large amount
of vacant, developable land. Low -density residences are the most probable type
of future land uses. Potential also exists for future light industrial or intensive
' commercial development in the area north of the Norfolk-Southem Railroad on
the east and west sides of Friendly Road which is the location of the new Bridges
street Extension.
The natural and man-made features that influence the continuation of
existing land uses and the development of future land uses include the proposed
connector road between Country Club Road and North 20th Street, the proposed
Bridges Street Extension, the West Carteret High School and Morehead Primary
School, the Norfolk -Southern Railroad, the Newport River and it's floodplain,
' wetland areas, and the country club and golf course.
2.136 Neighborhood 6. The area generally bounded on the north by the
' Norfolk -Southern Railroad, on the east by properties abutting the end of South
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Street, on the south by Bogue Sound, and on the west by Spooners Creek
comprises Neighborhood 6. This neighborhood can best be characterized as two
subareas - one, a strip commercial area adjacent to both the north and south sides
of the US 70 corridor and two, an older, established residential area located on
the east and west sides of Peletier Creek and on the east side of Spooners Creek.
The boundaries of Neighborhood 6 have been expanded westward from those
delineated in the 1991 Land Use Plan Update to include portions of the Mitchell
Village and Spooners Creek East Harbor Subdivisions which were annexed in
1995.
Neighborhood 6 contains primarily residences, three-quarters of which
are single-family detached dwellings. Multi -family residences are generally
located in relatively small developments scattered throughout the neighborhood.
Several small manufactured home parks are located within the US 70 corridor.
Commercial development is extensive and includes most parcels adjacent to US
70 and NC 24. The approximate 75 to 80 businesses located in this
neighborhood include single -lot development, strip shopping centers, and
marinas. Institutional and recreational uses include small parks and churches.
No industrial land uses are located in this neighborhood. Vacant land consists
primarily of subdivided building lots and a few scattered small parcels between
US 70 and the Norfolk -Southern Railroad.
TABLE 9
EXISTING LAND USE
NEIGHBORHOOD 6
Percent of
Percent of
Land Use
Acres Developed Acreage
Total Acreage
Residential
552 95.2%
73.0%
Commercial
21 3.6%
2.8%
Public/Institutional/Recreational
7 1.2%
0.9%
Industrial
0 0.0%
0.0%
Vacant
176 0.07.
23.3%
Totals
756 100.0%
100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company, 1996.
Because Neighborhood 6 is comprised of two basic use groups, the
zoning in the area consists of two general zoning classifications - commercial and
residential. Commercial zoning includes office and professional, shopping
center, highway commercial, neighborhood commercial, and marine commercial
classifications. Residential zoning on the north and east sides of Peletier Creek
involves primarily the R10 classification (maximum 4 units per acre) with some
R7 (maximum 6 units per acre) and PD (maximum 36 units per acre). The vast
majority of the neighborhood west of Peletier Creek is zoned for a maximum of 3
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and 4 units per acre (R20 and R15) with some limited R5 (maximum of 8 units
per acre) and R10. Most of the vacant land in Neighborhood 6 is zoned for
residential use (primarily R15, R10, and R7) and highway commercial use. The
greatest potential for growth in this neighborhood is low -density residential
development and conversion of some existing residential parcels in the US 70
corridor to commercial use.
This neighborhood is most noticeably influenced by US 70, NC 24, the
Norfolk-Southem Railroad, Bogue Sound, and Peletier and Spooners Creeks and
their floodplains.
2.137 Neighborhood 7. Like Neighborhood 5, Neighborhood 7 is chiefly a
single-family residential area that consists of both mature and developing
subdivisions. This neighborhood planning area is generally bounded on the north
by the Newport River, on the east by the Newport River and Calico Bay, on the
south by Calico Creek, and on the west primarily by subdivisions that have direct
access to either North 20th Street or to Mayberry Loop Road. Subareas of
Neighborhood 7 include: (i) the individual subdivisions adjacent to North 20th
Street, (ii) the Crab Point peninsula, and (iii) the Dills Creek area. Neighborhood
7 includes more land area than as delineated in the 1991 Land Use Plan Update
because all of the Crab Point peninsula is now within the town's ETJ.
Of all the residences located in this neighborhood, approximately 75
percent are single-family detached dwellings. Major residential subdivisions
include Keeter Park, Dill Creek, Sunrise Point, River Heights, Brook Woods,
and South Shores. Approximately 150 multi -family residences and
condominiums are located on the south side of Mayberry Loop Road and on
North 20th Street at the Haystacks Development. An estimated 225
manufactured homes are situated in Neighborhood 7, the majority of which are
located in the Apple Mobile Home Park on North 20th Street and in the Bay
Meadows Mobile Home Park on Country Club Road at Crab Point. A small
mobile home park is also located on Oglesby Road. A small number of
manufactured homes on individual lots are scattered throughout the area.
Commercial development in this neighborhood is limited to 3 to 4 businesses
located in the North 20th Street, Oglesby Road, and Mayberry Loop Road
intersection area. Public and institutional land uses are comprised of a small park
and private recreational facilities, the town's wastewater treatment plant, and two
churches. Several large tracts on the Crab Point peninsula are currently used for
agricultural purposes. Neighborhood 7 does not contain any industrial land uses.
This neighborhood contains the second highest amount of vacant land of
all nine neighborhood planning areas. Vacant land consists of many large tracts
scattered throughout the entire neighborhood. Several of the vacant tracts,
however, are subject, in part, to flood hazards as well as being identified as
wetlands. Poor soil conditions limit development of much of the vacant tracts in
the Crab Point Neck and Dills Creek areas (see Section 2.211.2). Generally, the
largest developable, vacant tracts are located along Country Club Road, in the
Mayberry Loop Road area, and on the west side of North 20th Street.
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The majority of land, developed and vacant, in Neighborhood 7 is zoned
for residential use. The residential zoning classifications (R5, R7, R10, R-15, R-
15SM, R20, and PD) range in maximum permitted density from 2 to 36 units per
acre, with the lower density zoning being placed on most of the land in the
neighborhood. This neighborhood also contains the largest amount of R15M
zoning which permits manufactured home parks and manufactured homes on
individual lots. Commercial zoning is basically limited to the area where the
majority of the existing businesses are located: the North 20th Street, Oglesby
Road, and Mayberry Loop Road intersection area.
TABLE 10
EXISTING LAND USE
NEIGHBORHOOD 7
Percent of
Percent of
Land Use
Acres
Developed Acreage
Total Acreage
Residential
501
96.5%
15.2%
Commercial
2
0.4%
0.1%
Public/Institutional/Recreational
16
3.1%
0.5%
Industrial
0
0.0%
0.0%
Vacant and Agricultural
1,864
0.0%
56.6%
Water
209
0..0%
ZZAK
Totals
3,292
100.0%
100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company, 1997.
Growth potential in Neighborhood 7 is good provided the constraints to
development can be overcome. Because of the large amount of vacant land, it
would appear that this neighborhood has the ability to accommodate growth,
particularly low density residential development. However, developmental
constraints such as flood hazard, poor soil conditions, wetlands, and the lack of
support infrastructure limit the location and intensity of future development (see
Section 2.211).
1 Neighborhood influences impacting this area, in addition to the
developmental constraints discussed above, include Calico Creek, the Newport
River, North 20th Street, the proposed major thoroughfare connector between
1 Country Club Road and North 20th Street, and the proposed minor thoroughfare
connecting North 20th Street north of the Sunrise Point Subdivision to the
Haystacks.
1 2.138 Neighborhood 8. Neighborhood 8 has been delineated since the 1991
Land Use Plan Update to include properties recently annexed to the town as well
as territory added to the town's expanded M. This neighborhood includes four
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distinct subareas. Subarea A is primarily composed of commercial and industrial
lots abutting the US Highway 70 corridor from the US 70/NC 24 intersection to
the western terminus of the town's extraterritorial planning jurisdiction. Subarea
B includes chiefly commercial and vacant lots abutting the north side of NC
Highway 24 corridor from the US 70/NC 24 intersection to just east of the
Brandywine Bay development. Subarea C encompasses the mixture of
commercial and residential uses north of US Highway 70 and south of the
Norfolk Southern Railroad that parallels US 70. Subarea D includes primarily
residential and large undeveloped tracts bounded by the railroad, Hull Swamp,
the Newport River, and the westernmost boundary of Neighborhood 5. This
subarea also contains the newly developed 60-acre Carteret County Industrial
Park which is currently being marketed by Carteret County.
This neighborhood is composed of approximately 130 commercial land
uses, 12 industrial uses, 115 single-family residences, 260 manufactured homes
located on individual lots and within 6 manufactured home parks, and 7
institutional uses. Numerous large vacant and undeveloped tracts are located
between the railroad and the Newport River.
TABLE 11
LAND USE BY TYPE AND ACREAGE
NEIGHBORHOOD 8
Percent of
Percent of
Land Use
Acres
Developed Acreage
Total Acreage
Residential
205
43.4%
7.6%
Commercial
213
45.1%
7.9%
Public/Institutional/RecreatioiW
15
3.2%
0.5%
Industrial
39
8.3%
1.4%
Vacant
2.234
0.0%
82
Totals
2,706
100.0%
100.0%
Source: The Wooten
The majority of subareas A and B are zoned for commercial use —
highway commercial, shopping center, and office and professional. The
proposed Carteret County Industrial Park site on Little Nine Road and several
other small areas are zoned for industrial use. The remaining areas in
Neighborhood 8 are zoned primarily for low density residential use.
Growth potential in Neighborhood 8 is high, particularly along the US 70
and NC 24 corridors and in areas where adequate support utilities can be
extended. Neighborhood 8 contains the largest amount of vacant land among the
nine neighborhood planning areas. Retail and commercial services development
is anticipated along the highway corridors. Industrial development is projected
along Little Nine Road and along the railroad. Influencing features include the
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proposed Bridges Street Extension, the proposed minor thoroughfare to connect
NC 24 with US 70 at the Bridges Street/US 70 intersection, the Norfolk Southern
Railroad, the existing US 70 and NC 24 highways, Hull Swamp, and the
Newport River.
2.139 Neighborhood 9. Neighborhood 9 has also been delineated since the
1991 Land Use Plan Update to include properties located within the town's
expanded ETJ. This neighborhood generally includes (i) properties along the
Bogue Sound waterfront on the south side of NC Highway 24 from Spooners
Creek to the Gull Harbor Subdivision which is located at the southwesternmost
boundary of the town's ETJ and (ii) the Brandywine Bay and golf course
development and surrounding properties.
TABLE 12
LAND USE BY TYPE AND ACREAGE
NEIGHBORHOOD 9
Percent of
Percent of
Land Use
Acres Developed Acreage
Total Acreage
Residential
383 87.6%
28.3%
Commercial
7 1.6 %
0.5 %
Public/Institutional/Recreational 47 10.8%
3.5%
Industrial
0 0.0%
0.0
Vacant
2138 0.0%
67 7
Totals
1,355 100.0%
100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company,
1997.
Neighborhood 9 is primarily residential and includes approximately 360
single-family detached dwellings, 170 condominiums and attached single-family
residences, and 15 mobile homes on individual lots and within one small
manufactured home park. The largest residential developments in this
neighborhood include Brandywine Bay, Bogue Village, Bogue Landing, and
Spooners Creek West. A new 60-lot subdivision, The Village at Camp Morehead
by the Sea, is currently being developed at the former Camp Morehead property
adjacent to Bogue Sound. The major institutional and recreational uses in
Neighborhood 9 include the Brandywine Bay golf course, several churches, and a
cemetery. Commercial uses are limited to approximately 5 businesses located
primarily on the north side of NC 24. A marina/restaurant is located at Spooners
Creek. Several tracts located on the west side of McCabe Road are currently
used for agricultural purposes. There are no industrial uses located within
Neighborhood 9. The majority of the undeveloped and vacant land within this
neighborhood is located on the south side of NC 24, on the north side of NC 24
east of the Brandywine Bay golf course, and on the west side of McCabe Road.
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Numerous undeveloped platted subdivision lots exist within the Brandywine Bay
development and the Spooners Creek West Subdivision.
The majority of this neighborhood is within residential zoning
classifications which permit a density of 2 to 3 dwelling units per acre. The
Brandywine Bay development is zoned PD, Planned Development. The greatest
potential for growth in this neighborhood is low density residential development.
The natural and man-made features that influence Neighborhood 9 include NC
Highway 24, Spooners Creek, and Bogue Sound.
2.139.1 Summary of Existing Land Use Conditions. As indicated in Figure 3,
Existing Land Use, the majority of the developed land in the Morehead City area
is used for residential purposes. Public, institutional, and recreational land uses
account for over 17 percent of all developed land. Commercial and industrial
uses comprise 9 and 5 percent, respectively, of all developed acreage. As shown
in Table 13, vacant land makes up over 53 percent of the total acreage of the
Morehead City planning jurisdiction.
TABLE 13
LAND USE BY TYPE AND ACREAGE
MOREHEAD PLANNING JURISDICTION
1997
Percent of
Percent of
Land Use
Acres
Developed Acreage
Total Acreage
Residential
3,147
68.3%
25.7%
Commercial
426
9.2%
3.5%
Public/lmtitutional/Recreational
811
17.6 %
6.6 %
Industrial
225
4.9%
1.8%
Vacant'
6,507
0.0%
53.1%
Water
1.140
0 0%
M.
Totals
12,256
100.0%
100.0%
'Includes developable land as well as land subject to flood hazard, wetlands, etc.
Source: Estimated from existing land use maps prepared by The Wooten Company.
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Neighborhoods 7, 6, 9 and 2 are the areas in which residential uses
occupy the highest percentage of developed land. Because of the large amounts
of vacant land in Neighborhoods 8 and 7, these two neighborhoods have the
greatest potential for future residential development, particularly low -density,
single-family development. As shown in Table 14, the greatest amount of
commercially -used land is found in Neighborhoods 8, 4, and 1.
Neighborhoods 3, 4, and 8 appear to contain the greatest amount of land for
future commercial growth areas. Industrial land uses are primarily located in
Neighborhood 1 (the state port facility). Future industrial development can
most likely be accommodated in portions of Neighborhoods 4 and 8.
The Morehead City planning jurisdiction is located within three 14-digit
watersheds (#03020106030070, #0302016030010, and #03020106030060) as
delineated by the US Natural Resource Conservation Service (see Figure 1).
The vast majority of the town's planning jurisdiction is, however, located with
watershed #03020106030070. Only the westernmost portion of the Morehead
City planning jurisdiction is within watershed #0302016030010 and the extreme
southwest corner of the ETJ,in watershed #03020106030060.
Watershed #0302016030010 contains land that is currently used
primarily for residential purposes. This watershed encompasses small portions
of Neighborhoods 8 and 9 and includes a major portion of the Brandywine Bay
residential development. A small manufactured home park, manufactured
homes on individual lots, and scattered, low density single-family detached
dwellings comprise the remainder of residential uses. Other major land uses
within this watershed include 15 to 20 retail and commercial service uses along
the US Highway 70 corridor, several institutional uses, the Brandywine Bay
golf course, and agricultural uses on small, scattered tracts located west of
McCabe Road. The majority of the vacant and undeveloped land within
watershed #0302016030010 is located north of the US Highway 70 corridor
along Hull Swamp. Very little undeveloped land is located adjacent to the
Bogue Sound waterfront. There are no industrial land uses within this
particular watershed.
Watershed #0302016030060 is almost exclusively residential and
includes Bogue Village Subdivision, a portion of the Brandywine Bay
development, and Bogue Landing Subdivision. Approximately 160 attached
single-family residences and condominiums are also included within the
Brandywine Bay development. One small manufactured home park, 4 to 5
manufactured homes on individual lots, and scattered single-family, detached
dwellings on small lots are also found in this watershed. The only major
nonresidential use within this watershed is a cemetery located on the north side
of NC Highway 24. There is very little undeveloped land within this
watershed.
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TABLE 14
PERCENTAGE OF DEVELOPED ACREAGE
BY NEIGHBORHOOD
Total
Morehead
City
Land Use
1
2
3
4 5
6
7
8
9
Planning
Jurisdiction
Residential
30.8%
73.0%
60.1%
49.0% 65.0
95.2%
96.5%
43.4%
87.6%
68.3%
Comrnercial
18.3%
1.1%
9.3%
21.2% 1.1%
3.6%
0.4%
45.1%
1.6%
9.2%
Public/
Institutional/
7.0%
25.9
28.9%
27.8% 33.9%
1.2
3.1%
3.2%
10.8%
17.6%
Recreational
Industrial
43.9%
0.0%
1.7%
2. 0 0.0%
0.0%
0.0 %
$ °o0.0°%Q
4.9%
TOTALS
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0% 100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
Source: The Wooten Company, 1997.
Appendix R provides a summary of the distribution of total acreage by
land use category and neighborhood. Neighborhood 5 contains almost 30 percent
of all land used for residential purposes. Neighborhood 5 also contains the
largest amount of public, institutional, and recreational land, due primarily to the
location of the country club and golf course in that neighborhood. The greatest
number of commercially -used acreage is found in Neighborhoods 8, 1, and 4.
Because of the port facilities being situated in Neighborhood 1, that neighborhood
accounts for almost 78 percent of all industrial acreage. Neighborhoods 8 , 7,
and 5 contain the greatest amounts of vacant acreage.
A closer evaluation of residential uses indicates that 59 percent of all
dwelling units are single-family detached structures (see Appendix S). Multi-
family residences (including group quarters) make up 30 percent of the total
housing stock and manufactured homes, 11 percent. The overwhelming majority
of manufactured homes in the Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction are located in
manufactured home parks. Single-family detached residences are concentrated in
Neighborhoods 2, 3, 5, 6,and 9. Neighborhood 2 is almost exclusively a single-
family detached area.
Based upon recent estimates of population, dwelling units, and acreage,
the most densely populated areas are Neighborhoods 1, 2, and 3. The highest
housing and population densities are found in the older, established sections of
town. Densities basically decrease as the distance from the central business
district increases.
Recently, the major land use compatibility problem has centered around
land development in areas classified as freshwater wetlands. The exact
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delineation of wetlands boundaries is often controversial and their presence can
alter or preclude land development proposals. Consequently, the goal of
preservation of fragile areas often conflicts with economic development
objectives. Earlier coordination of local land development proposals with the US
Army Corps of Engineers is perhaps one method for helping to resolve this
compatibility issue. No other significant land or water use problems exist in the
study area. Some nonconforming land uses are scattered throughout town but
their continued operation does not present a problem to existing surrounding land
uses. Unplanned development is not an issue in the Morehead City area since
land development has been subject to land use controls prior to inclusion in either
the town's extraterritorial planning and zoning jurisdiction or the town's
corporate limits. Most general land uses are segregated into compatible
groupings that, while often in close proximity to each other, function without
having negative impacts on surrounding land uses.
There have been no significant changes in land use since the 1991
CAMA Land Use Plan Update. The town has, however, expanded its corporate
limits and its extraterritorial planning jurisdiction, principally to the west and
north, to encompass approximately 3,850 additional acres. Building permits
issued since 1990 indicate a continuation of residential development that is largely
single-family in nature. As shown in Appendix T, 56 percent of all residential
units authorized since 1990 are single-family residences. Manufactured home
permits totaled 35 percent of all residential permits and multi -family residences, 9
percent. The proportion of manufactured home permits has increased
significantly during the past five years due, in part, to the lack of affordable
housing and the limited availability of developable lots.
From 1991 to 1994, the Town of Morehead City approved land
subdivisions that created 252 new residential building lots. Most of the newly
created lots are located within the town's extraterritorial planning and zoning
jurisdiction.
2.140 Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations Affecting Land Use. The Town of
Morehead City has prepared various plans and has developed policies and regulations that
have significant implications for land use planning. The following sections provide a
brief description of these plans, policies, and regulations.
2.141 Thoroughfare Plan A Thoroughfare Plan was previously developed by
the North Carolina Department of Transportation for Morehead City, Beaufort,
and Atlantic Beach. This plan has been updated and a new plan was adopted in
1992. The 1992 Thoroughfare Plan, which covers Morehead City and Beaufort,
is a guide to the future development of the town's street system and has as its
major objective improving operational efficiency through street system
coordination and layout. Proposals in the updated plan are concerned with
several major issues including: (i) a new east -west road in the Crab Point area,
(ii) an extension of Bridges Street westward past the US 70/NC 24 intersection,
(iii) a new street tying Country Club Road to Arendell Street west of the Swinson
Park area, and (iv) an interchange at the intersection of US 70 and NC 24.
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2.142 Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post Disaster Reconstruction Plan.
This plan provides for the mitigation of hurricane hazards and establishes
guidelines for evacuation and reconstruction following a major storm. A more
detailed description of storm hazard mitigation, evacuation, and post -disaster
recovery policies is provided in Section 3.600.
2.143 Zoning Ordinance. Revisions to the town's Zoning Ordinance were
adopted in February 1994. This ordinance provides use, dimensional, and
developmental standards for all new construction within the town and its one -mile
extraterritorial planning jurisdiction. The ordinance establishes 21 zoning
districts including 9 residential, 8 commercial, 2 industrial, 1 institutional, and 1
floodplain. Residential classifications permit maximum densities that range from
2 to 36 dwelling units per acre. The majority of land, however, is zoned for
densities that range from 2 to 8 dwelling units per acre. Provisions in the
ordinance governing planned unit developments generally allow higher residential
densities. Residential classifications allow a variety of housing types including
single-family detached, multi -family, congregate, and manufactured residences.
Commercial zoning classifications permit a wide variety of retail, wholesale,
office, and business service uses. Industrial zoning restrictions distinguish
' between general manufacturing uses and port -related industrial uses.
2.144 Subdivision Regulations The existing Subdivision Regulations, which
' were revised in April 1992, basically provide platting procedures and
developmental standards for residential subdivisions. The Subdivision
Regulations are also administered within the town's corporate limits and the
' extraterritorial planning and zoning jurisdictional area. Subdivision plat review
affords the town an opportunity to coordinate street and utility layouts in
emerging residential areas.
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2.145 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance Morehead City has adopted a
model Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance which was prepared by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency. Adoption and enforcement of this ordinance
permits the town to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program. The
ordinance delineates flood hazard areas and establishes developmental standards
within those areas. Most uses are prohibited within designated floodways.
Building development in other identified flood hazard areas is basically permitted
as long as the lowest floor elevation of structures is one foot above the base flood
elevation.
2.146 Water and Sewer Impact Fee Ordinance Adopted in 1984, this
ordinance provides a method for financing the expansion of the capacity of water
and wastewater facilities. As new development creates a need to expand
facilities, the user -oriented fees provide a mechanism to help finance such capital
improvements.
2.147 Water and Sewer Extension Policy Water and sewer extensions to
major developments outside of the town's corporate limits are generally paid for
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by the developer, but the town, at its discretion, may participate in the cost of
such extensions. Prior to receiving water and sewer service, however,
developments outside of the corporate limits must petition for annexation to the
town. Utility extensions must conform to the town's specifications and standards.
The majority of major water and sewer extensions in recent years has been to
provide service to residential developments.
2.148 Building Codes The town administers the state building code throughout
' the entire planning and zoning jurisdiction. The building code establishes
minimum building and plumbing construction standards for new buildings. The
town also administers nationally recognized electrical and mechanical codes.
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2.149 Capital Facilities Plans. As part of the town's public improvements
programming, municipal departments prepare 5-year capital facility plans. These
plans are utilized to project capital needs and improvements. Such capital facility
planning permits the opportunity to better coordinate the development of major
municipal facilities and services.
2.150 Downtown Improvement Program. For the past two decades,
Morehead City has been diligent in its efforts to improve the economic climate of
the central business district by enhancing the downtown area. The first phase of
the downtown improvements plan included Evans Street between 3rd and 6th
Streets. Improvements included: the installation of a new bulkhead, water and
sewer system improvements, construction of a waterfront promenade, the
installation of underground electrical utilities, street and drainage improvements,
and landscaping improvements. Improvements were also made to the Jaycee
Park, the waterfront terminus of 9th Street, and the 8th Street dock in Phase H.
Waterfront improvement funds in Phases I and II were primarily from the
Economic Development and Community Revitalization categories, respectively,
of the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program,
administered by the Division of Community Assistance, NC Department of
Commerce. Phase II was funded in part by the North Carolina Beach and
Coastal Waterfront Access Grant Program from the Division of Coastal
Management, a Rural Economic Development Grant, and local funds.
In 1995, the town began work on the third phase which includes Evans
Street and Jib Street between 6th and 8th Streets. This phase was funded by a
$1.0 million bank loan approved by the Local Government Commission.
Improvements include: construction of a new bulkhead, a brick promenade,
street and drainage improvements, installation of underground electrical utilities,
water and sewer system improvements, and landscaping improvements. Phase III
is expected to be completed by January 1997.
The total investment for infrastructure improvements has been
approximately $3.0 million funded by a variety of grants and local funds. Since
initiating the downtown waterfront improvements, Morehead City has realized a
$15.0 million increase in its tax base.
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2.160 Ordinance Administration. The Town of Morehead City Planning
Department is responsible for administering and enforcing the Zoning Ordinance,
Subdivision Regulations, and Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. The state
building code is administered and enforced by the Building Inspection division
which includes 2 building inspectors. The water and sewer impact fee ordinance
and water and sewer extension policies are administered by the Director of Public
Utilities. The current staffing level is considered adequate to provide the level of
service necessary to meet current and projected demand.
The city considers its ordinances and plans to be adequate to effectively
manage current land development activities. However, revisions to the land
development regulatory tools will be considered an on -going activity in order to
maintain the currency and effectiveness of such regulations.
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2.200 Constraints to Land Development
This section of the land use plan update analyzes the general suitability of land within the
Morehead City Planning and Zoning Jurisdiction. Also included within this section is a
discussion of Morehead City's capacity to provide basic community services as well as the
projected demand on community services.
2.210 Land Suitability. The analysis of land suitability includes a discussion of
physical limitations for development, the location of environmentally fragile areas, and
the location of areas with resource potential. The Morehead City planning jurisdiction
is located within three 14-digit hydrological unit watershed (#03020106030070,
#0302016030010, and #0302016030060) as delineated by the US Natural Resource
Conservation Service (see Figure 1).
2.211 Physical Limitations for Development
2.211.1 Hazard Areas. Man-made hazard areas in Morehead City
include the Norfolk -Southern Railroad, bulk petroleum products
storage facilities, and the port facility. The port facility is identified as
a hazard area due to the nature of some of the cargo handled such as
bulk oil and aviation fuel. It is recommended that the town, in
conjunction with designated military and Port Authority
representatives, develop a specific disaster plan to address the
movement of hazardous waste materials through the town by road, rail
and water.
Natural hazard areas include floodable areas. The following
description of the principal flood problems in Morehead City is from
the "Flood Insurance Study, Town of Morehead City" which was
prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in April
1983:
"the principal source of flooding in Morehead City is
storm surge generated in the Atlantic Ocean by tropical
storms and hurricanes. This storm surge passes through
Beaufort Inlet and the Morehead City Channel into
Bogue Sound and Peletier Creek. The storm surge
extends further up the Harbor Channel and into the
Newport River, Calico Bay, Calico Creek, and Crab
Point Bay. In addition to the tidal surge, high winds
associated with tropical storms can produce high
waves."
Flood hazard areas have been delineated by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency and are identified in Flood Insurance
Rate Maps. The latest maps, dated October 18, 1983 and numbered
370048, are available for review at the Morehead City Inspections
Department. The maps delineate the 100-year and 500-year flood
boundaries and provide base flood elevation data. Areas of the 100-
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-30

I
1
U
year coastal flood with velocity (3 feet or more of wave action) are also
depicted on the flood hazard maps as Velocity Zones. The 100-year
flood area is the base flood for purposes of floodplain management
measures. Base flood elevations within the 100-year flood area range
from 7 to 10 feet. The general location of the 100-year flood hazard
area is shown in Figure 4. The 500-year flood area is utilized to show
additional areas of flood risk.
While much uncertainty exists about the rate and extent of sea
level rise, there is a general consensus that a sea level rise of 1.6 to 6.6
feet will occur over the next century.[ Areas in the Morehead City
planning jurisdiction that would be susceptible to a sea level rise are
located within the 100-year flood hazard area. Much of the land
subject to a five-foot sea level rise is currently wetlands, particularly in
the Calico Creek and Crab Point Neck areas. However, the waterfront
area along Bogue Sound, which is intensively developed, and Calico
Bay would be susceptible to a five-foot rise in sea level. All
development on land in identified flood hazard areas, including areas
susceptible to sea level rise, is regulated by the town's Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance which requires that new buildings be elevated
one foot above the base flood elevations.
2.211.2 Soil Limitations. The study area consists of five general soil
' map units: (i) Lafitte-Hobucken-Carteret, (ii) Leon-Murville-Mandarin;
(iii) Wando-Seabrook-Kureb, (iv) Baymeade-Onslow-Lynchburg, and
(v) Altavista -Augusta -State. Appendix U delineates the soils within
these five general map units and shows the limitations of each soil type
for building site development and subsurface sewage disposal. Figure
5 shows the general location of soil types that have overall severe
' limitations for site development and septic system use. The limiting
characteristics include wetness, flooding, ponding, low soil strength,
rapid permeability, and slope.
A detailed soils analysis (Soil Survey of Carteret County, North
Carolina; US Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service,
1987) is available which highlights limitations and hazards inherent in
the various soils. The Soil Conservation Service, located in Beaufort,
can provide more detailed information about specific soil types.
Because the Carteret County Environmental Health Department
determines the suitability of each site for septic tanks and absorption
fields on a case -by -case basis, it should be consulted to obtain a specific
site evaluation and permit.
tR. Paul Wilms, "The Effects of Global Warming and Sea Level Rise on Coastal North Carolina", Carolina
Planning, Fall 1990, Volume 16, Number 2, Department of City and Regional Planning, University of North
Carolina.
1.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-31

The preparation of this map was financed In part
through a grant provided by the North Carolina'
Coastal Management Program, through the funds nag og oug
provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Act % ,?
-of 1972, as amended, which is ofadmilnIiste/Ired bI the
oceana Coastal Res dc�M�d�b���
Areas of
Environmental Concern
Estuarine Shoreline
Coastal Wetlands`
Estuarine Waters"
Public Trust Waters'
-Not Mapped
City Limits
--- ETJ
-- Watershed Boundary
Fragile Areas
100- Year Flood Hazard Area ® Primary Nursery Areas
QSound and Estuarine System Islands
1. Phillips Island
2. Newport Marshes
• — Anadromous Fish Spawning Areas
Other Fragile Areas Not Mapped Include Fresh Water'404' Wetlands
precise location of Coastal Wetlands, Freshwau
the Estuarine Shoreline must be determined by
s In the Morehead City planning Jurisdiction are
ublic Trust Waters
In CAMA Permit
Ali water
Figure 4
Fragile Areas Including
Cwnto the Estuarine
— ny
Shoreline AEC
Morehead City, NC
614/98

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2.211.3 Availability and Quality of Water Supply. Morehead City
receives its water supply from four deep wells which are located at
Arendell and 5th Streets, 24th and Fisher Streets, Bridges Street and
Bald Drive, and North Gate and Tootle Roads. The town has always
depended on deep wells for its water supply and, to date, has faced no
major shortage. If all four wells were allowed to pump 24 hours a
day, the total pumping capacity would be over 3.7 MGD. However,
because state law allows pumping for only 12 hours per day, the
present pumping capacity is about 1.9 MGD. The lowest flow for
1995 was 611,000 gpd with the highest daily flow of 1,574,000 gpd.
The average daily flow was 1,088,000 gpd. The town's average daily
excess capacity is approximately 700,000 gpd. The construction of a
fifth well is currently under contract. The table below provides basis
information about each existing well.
TABLE 15
GROUND WATER SOURCES
TOWN OF MOREHEAD CITY
1996
Screen Depth
Well
Well
Casing
No.
Depth
Depth
Top
Bottom Diameter Withdrawal
Capacity
Aquifer
1
100'
389'
364'
389' 6" 0,200 MGD
0.921 MGD
Castle Hayne
2
90,
410'
370'
410' 6" 0.150 MGD
0.878 MGD
Castle Hayne
3
100'
375'
340'
370' 8" 0.300 MGD
1.152 MGD
Castle Hayne
4
100'
375'
340'
370' 8" 0.300 MGD
1.065 MGD
Castle Hayne
Source: Water and Sewer Department,
Town of Morehead City, 1996.
' The town adds chlorine and fluoride to the water at each well
site. The town also monitors total coliform bacteria, synthetic organic
chemicals, volatile organic chemicals, trihalomethanes, pesticides,
t radiological, lead and copper and various inorganic chemicals. In all,
the town monitors for 87 different parameters. The town complies with
the standards of the Drinking Water Act and standards for
' trihalomethanes. The problem associated with trihalomethanes is not
an issue in Morehead City.
' The present water supply is considered adequate to serve the
anticipated water needs throughout the study period. The town's water
and sewer department has projected the average water usage to increase
' to 1.532 MGD in 2000 and 1.726 MGD in 2010. The pumping levels
for the wells in Morehead City have been very consistent with the
levels fluctuating only 5 to 10 feet during dry spells. The Castle Hayne
Aquifer appears to have an adequate supply of water for the various
1.000 Data Collection and Analysis May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-34

' municipalities withdrawing water at this time. The Castle Hayne
Aquifer has been designated as a capacity use area by the state due to
' large groundwater withdrawals by the Texas Gulf phosphate mine
located near Aurora. A capacity use area is an area where the use of
water resources threatens to exceed the replenishment ability.
2.211.4 Areas with Excessive Slope and High Erosion Potential.
Morehead City lies on a peninsula with elevations which range from
' sea level to approximately 25 feet. A portion of the western peninsula
is characterized by steeply sloping waterfronts as is the Bogue Sound
Waterfront immediately north and south of Peletier Creek. The eastern
' portions of the peninsula are relatively flat. Northward from the
Newport River Bay area, the topography is generally flat. Excessive
slope is defined as an area where the predominant slope exceeds 12
' percent. Within the study area, there are no areas with excessive
slope. Consequently, excessive slope is not a constraint to land
development.
1 2.211.5 Water Quality Conditions. The Town of Morehead City
planning jurisdiction is located within Subbasin 030503 (Newport River
' and tributaries including Bogue Sound) of the White Oak River Basin.
This subbasin includes the central portion of Carteret County, extending
from the Croatan National Forest to Beaufort and Beaufort Inlet. Most of
' this subbasin is estuarine with the Newport River as the only major
source of freshwater. Other than the Town of Newport, the majority of
major development within the subbasin is located along the coast at
Morehead City, Beaufort, Atlantic Beach, and Bogue Banks.
Water pollution is caused by a number of substances including
' sediment, nutrients, bacteria, oxygen -demanding wastes and toxic
substances such as heavy metals, chlorine and pesticides. Sources of
these pollutants are divided into two general categories: point sources
' and nonpoint sources.
Point sources are basically discharges that enter surface waters
' through a pipe, ditch, or other well-defined point of discharge and often
include discharges from wastewater treatment plants or large urban and
industrial stormwater systems. Within the Morehead City planning
' jurisdiction, the major point source discharger is the town's wastewater
treatment plant. Other point source dischargers include small domestic
discharging treatment systems (package treatment plants) that serve
' residential subdivisions and developments.
Nonpoint sources generally include stormwater runoff from small
urban areas (less than 100,000 population), forestry, mining, agricultural
lands and other. Examples of the types of land use activities that can
serve as sources of nonpoint pollution include land development,
' construction, crop production, animal feeding lots, failing septic systems,
' 2,000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-35

I
'
landfills, roads, and parking lots. Fecal coliform bacteria and nutrients
are major pollutants associated with nonpoint source pollution. Unlike
'
point source pollution, nonpoint pollution sources are diffuse in nature
and occur at random intervals depending on rainfall frequency and
intensity.
'
Within the Morehead City planning jurisdiction, the primary
water pollution sources of estuarine waters are estimated to be multiple
t
nonpoint sources including agriculture, forestry, urban runoff, septic tank
runoff, and marinas and point sources like the Morehead City WWTP
and the state port. Calico Creek, a tidal creek that receives the effluent
from the Morehead City WWTP as well as runoff from lawns throughout
its watershed, has indications of a severely stressed creek due to the low
variety of organisms, biotic index, and number of amphipods. According
'
the draft "White Oak River Basinwide Water Quality Management Plan"
prepared by the NC Division of Water Quality, Water Quality Section in
July 1996, it is, however, impossible to separate the impacts of the
'
W WTP with degradation from nonpoint runoff.
The main reasons for closures in shellfish waters in the 050330
'
subbasin (based upon DEH Shellfish Sanitation Reports) are elevated
fecal coliform levels. The activities that contribute to this condition
include, but are not limited to, construction, urban stormwater, failing
'
septic systems, forestry, and agricultural activities. Control of these
types of activities include a wide variety of state agencies, local health
departments, local municipal and county governments, and private
'
property owners. There is no prescriptive remedy to solve the problem
of closed shellfish waters. Rather, it will require a great deal of
collaboration and coordination to achieve the common goal of protecting
and restoring shellfish waters. Areas closed to shellfishing in the
'
Morehead City area are delineated in Figure 6.
' In 1990, the Division of Water Quality (formerly DEM) reported
findings of a special study of marinas in coastal North Carolina. Eleven
marinas were the subject of the study and five of these were located in
' Bogue Sound. While the primary objective of the study was to
characterize the water quality of marinas relative to ambient waters, there
was no evidence that the marinas in the study were a source of pollutants
' to ambient monitoring stations. Dye tracer studies suggested that the
transport of pollutants from marinas might be concentrated near shore
instead of in open waterways where the ambient stations were located.
' The report recommended that marina siting and design use features
which promote flushing such as locating marinas near inlets, minimizing
the restriction of entrance channels, and minimizing stagnant corners by
' using rounded comers, level bottoms sloping towards the entrance, and
avoiding bends.
' 2.000 Data Collection and Analysis May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-36

I
1 The NC Division of Water Quality's monitoring program
integrates biological, chemical, and physical data assessment to provide
' information for basinwide planning. The seven major monitoring
programs utilized by DWQ include the following:
' • Benthic macroinvertebrate monitoring
• Fish population and tissue monitoring
• Lakes assessment
• Aquatic toxicity monitoring
• Special studies and chemicallphysical water, quality
investigations
' • Sediment oxygen demand monitoring
• Ambient water quality monitoring
' Each of these monitoring programs is described in more detail in
the White Oak River Basinwide Plan.
2.211.6 Water Quality Classes and Standards. All surface waters in
North Carolina are assigned a primary water classification, and they may
also be assigned one or more supplemental classifications.. Figure 7
' shows the water quality classifications for waters in the Morehead City
vicinity. The table below summarizes surface water classifications and
water quality standards applicable. to the Morehead City planning
jurisdiction. The stormwater management requirements delineated in
Table 16 are applicable only when a major CAMA Permit or a
Sedimentation and Erosion Control Permit is needed and the impacted
area is more than one acre in size..
2.211.7 Water Quality Use -Support Ratings. Another important
method for assessing water quality is to determine whether the quality
is sufficient to support the uses for which the waterbody has been
classified by the state. The word "uses" refers to activities such as
t swimming, fishing, aquatic life protection, and water supply. All
surface waters are rated as either "fully supporting" (S), "support -
threatened" (ST), "partially supporting" (PS), or "nonsupporting"
' (NS). The terms refer to whether the classified uses of the water are
being fully supported, partially supported, or are not supported. As an
example, saltwaters classified for commercial shellfish harvesting
' would be rated as fully supporting if bacterial levels in the water were
low enough to allow harvesting. However, if fecal coliform bacterial
levels were too high to allow shellfish to be harvested, but not too high
' to prevent swimming, then the waters would be rated as partially
supporting since they only support the swimming. If the waters were
impacted to the point that even swimming was disallowed, the waters
' would be rated as nonsupporting. The use -supporting ratings for water
bodies in the vicinity of the Morehead City planning jurisdiction are
delineated in Figure 7.1.
1.000 Data Collection and Analysis May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-38

The preparation or this map was financed In part
through a grant provided by the North Carolina
which Is
N
R
p 2
Miles
Legend
--- ETJ
-- City Limits Figure 7
The
O Class SA Water Wooten Water Quality
® Class SB Water Company Use Classes
® Class SC Water — Morehead City, NC
--- Watershed Boundary
6/4/98

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TABLE 16
WATER QUALITY CLASSIFICATIONS AND STANDARDS
Primary
SC Aquatic life propagation and
secondary recreation activities
such as fishing, boating, and
water -related activities
involving minimal sldn
contact.
SB Primary recreation activities,
such as swimming, which
occur on a frequent or
organized basis plus Class SC
best uses.
SA Commercial shellfishing
harvesting and all Class SC
and SB uses.
Domestic and industris
wastewater discharges
allowed.
Same as Class SC;
wastewater treatment
reliability requirements may
apply to protect swimming
areas.
No domestic discharges and
only non -process industrial
discharges such as seafood
pacldng houses or cooling
water discharges.
Stormwater
Stormwater Management Rul
apply to all waters; low densi
option 30% built -upon area
or structural stomtwater
controls with higher density,
specified.
Same as for Class SC.
Same as Class SC except low
density option is 25 % built -
upon area.
Note: Stormwater controls are applicable only when a major CAMA permit or a Sedimentation and Erosion Control
Pemdt is needed and the impacted areas is more than one acre in size.
to North Carolina's Tidal Saltwater
Fear
2.212 Fragile Areas. Fragile areas within the Morehead City planning
jurisdiction which could easily be damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or
poorly planned development include the state -designated areas of environmental
concem, sound and estuarine system islands, and freshwater wetlands.
2.212.1 Areas of Environmental Concern. Areas of environmental
concern (AECs) include coastal wetlands, estuarine waters and public
trust areas, and the estuarine shoreline. Coastal wetlands are defined as
any marshes subject to regular or occasional flooding by lunar or wind
tides. Estuarine waters are defined by the Coastal Management Act as
all the waters of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundary of North
Carolina and all the water of bays, sounds, rivers, and tributaries
thereto seaward of the dividing line between coastal fishing waters and
inland fishing waters. Public trust areas include waters and submerged
lands in the coastal region where the public has rights of use and/or
ownership, including rights of navigation and recreation. The estuarine
shoreline area of environmental concern is all shorelands within 75 feet
landward of the mean high water level, or normal water level, of the
estuarine waters.
' 2.000 Data Collection and Analysis May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-40

a
Maned In part
North Carolina
0
River
G a e S o U n d
N \
W+E
Legend
--
s — ETJ Figure 7.1
City Limits The Water Quality
° z 0 Supporting Water Wooten Use -Support Ratings
Miles Partially Supporting Water Company
Morehead City, NC
Support Threatened Water
-- Watershed Boundary —
6/4/98

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Development within the designated areas of environmental
concern is limited by CAMA regulations and development guidelines.
Generally, the development standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine
waters, and public trust areas permit only water -dependent uses such as
navigation channels, dredging projects, docks, piers, bulkheads, boat
ramps, groins, and bridges. Priority is, however, given to the
conservation of these AECs. CAMA standards for estuarine shoreline
development generally require that (i) the development not cause
significant damage to estuarine resources; (ii) the development not
interfere with public rights of access to or use of navigable waters or
public resources; (ui) the development preserve and not weaken natural
barriers to erosion; (iv) impervious surfaces not exceed 30 percent of
the lot area located within the AEC boundary; (v) the development
comply with state soil erosion, sedimentation, and stormwater
management regulations; and (vi) the development comply with the
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan. Specific CAMA development
standards for AECs can be found in 15 NCAC 7H. Figure 4 shows the
general location of the estuarine shoreline. Other AECs are not
mapped. The precise location of coastal wetlands must be determined
by field investigation; therefore, they are not mapped in Figure 4.
2.212.2 Other Fragile Areas. Morehead City has identified some of
the sound and estuarine system islands and freshwater wetlands as other
fragile areas. Phillips Island and the Newport Marshes have been
designed as fragile areas. Annex (or Marsh) Island is owned by the
NC Ports Authority and because it is in public ownership and is used
for mitigation purposes, it is not considered a fragile area that could be
negatively impacted by development. Sugarloaf Island, while it has
some physical development constraints, does contain land with
development potential.
Freshwater wetlands include all other wetlands not classified as
coastal wetlands. The US Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for
regulating these '404' wetlands. Permits must be obtained from the
Corps prior to disturbing any freshwater wetlands. CAMA requires
that all '404' permits be consistent with the Coastal Management
Program and CAMA land use plans. As with coastal wetlands, the
precise location of freshwater wetlands can only be determined through
a field investigation and analysis. Consequently, freshwater wetlands
are not mapped in Figure 4. However, the US Fish and Wildlife
Service has, through it's National Wetlands Inventory, identified the
general location of wetlands. The National Wetlands Inventory Maps
are available from the US Department of the Interior and the NC
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources, Division
of Soil and Water Conservation. Freshwater wetlands in Carteret
County have also been mapped by the Division of Coastal Management
through the Wetlands Advance Identification (ADID) Project. The
wetlands maps are not intended to be utilized for regulatory purposes.
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-41

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2.213 Areas with Resource Potential. Areas with resource potential within
the Morehead City planning jurisdiction include the 520-acre privately -owned
nature preserve located off of Country Club Road northwest of the West
Carteret High School and productive agricultural lands.
The nature preserve is owned by a non-profit corporation, The Nature
Conservancy. The preserve is located within the designated 100-year flood
hazard area and is identified as wetlands area. Productive agricultural lands
consist of several relatively small farms located in the Crab Point area. The
agricultural lands are not currently within the town's extraterritorial planning
and zoning jurisdiction but are in an area in which Morehead City will most
likely expand its ETJ boundaries in the near future.
2.220 Carrying Capacity Analysis. The following analysis provides an evaluation
of the ability of Morehead City to provide the basic community services necessary to
meet the current and anticipated demand for such services. The existing community
services are reviewed as well as the demand for services based upon population and
land use projections. Major existing community facilities are shown in Figure 8.
2.221 Urban Services. Urban services evaluated in this section include
water and sewer services, police and fire protection, emergency medical
services, solid waste collection and disposal, recreation, education, and
administrative services.
2.221.1 Water Service. In 1996, Morehead City provided water
service to 3,227 customers. Of that total, approximately 80 percent
were residential customers. The town's water supply is from four deep
wells [see Section 2.211.3]. The average annual daily water use in
1995 was 1.072 MGD; the maximum daily water use was 1.574 MGD.
The average monthly water use for 1995 was as follows:
w.r.«.ea+.*•aca
MMont11
^a+.m.-^^.ty.+msmr�
xUsage _
January
0. 871 MGD
February
0.982 MGD
March
0.961 MGD
April
1.084 MGD
May
1.159 MGD
June
1.146 MGD
July
1.268 MGD
August
1.264 MGD
September
1.069 MGD
October
1.027 MGD
November
0.973 MGD
December
0.922 MGD
The largest water user in 1995 in Morehead City was the
Carteret General Hospital which utilized an average of 64,840 gallons
per day. Other major users and their average consumption included the
NC Ports Authority (42,327 GPD), Culligan (10,850 GPD), and
Morehead Nursing Home (22,270 GPD).
2.000 Data Collection and Analysis May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 2-43

The preparation M this map was financed In part
through a grant provided by the North Carolina
as
Act
which
0
City Limits
--- ETJ
-- Watershed Boundary
N
W+E
S
0 1 2
Miles
tyaa4""
B o g u e S o u n d
Educational Facilities Parks & Recreational Facilities
1. Cape Lookout High School 7. Swinson Park
2. Morehead Middle 8. Shevans Park
3. Camp Glenn Elementary 9. Morehead City Recreation Center
4. Carteret Community College 10. Jaycee Park
5. Morehead Primary 11. Municipal Park
6. West Carteret High School
Other Facilities
18. Webb Memorial Library
19. Carteret Co. General Hospital
20. National Guard Armory
21. Crystal Coast Civic Center
22. US Army Reserve Center
calico
Bay
\ a
Municipal Administrative &
Utility Facilities
12. City Hall
13. Municipal Bldg./Police/Fire Station
14. West End Fire Station
15. Public Works Center
16. Rescue Squad
17. Wastewater Treatment Plant
The
Proposed Thoroughfare Wooten
Improvements Company
Proposed Roads
Proposed Interchange
Figure 8 ,
Existing Community
Facilities
Morehead City, NC

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The town has approximately 46 miles of water mains with
waterlines that range in size from 2-inch to 12-inch and a 1.0 million
gallon water storage capacity in 2 elevated storage tanks. The town
currently complies with state standards that require the storage capacity
of one day's average usage (the 1995 usage was 1.072 MGD).
However, with the normal annual growth in water usage, the town
anticipates adding a 500,000 gallon elevated storage tank in the next
several years. Morehead City also projects the need for an additional
1.0 MGD well to serve the expanded customer base. The town's
existing and projected water service area is delineated in Figure 9.
There is one private, community water system located in the
town's extraterritorial planning jurisdiction. The Carolina Water
Company serves a portion of the town's western planning jurisdiction
along US Highways 70 and 24. Private wells are utilized for water
supply by those persons that are not served by the Town of Morehead
City.
2.221.2 Sewer. The town has approximately 44 miles of sewer mains,
ranging in size from 4-inch to 20-inch, that provide service to 3,227
customers. The town operates 14 sewage pump stations that are either
recently constructed or renovated. The wastewater treatment plant,
located north of Calico Creek on Mayberry Loop Road, has a permit
capacity of 1.7 MGD and a design capacity of 3.7 MGD. Recent
improvements have been completed which double the facility's
capacity. The average annual daily discharge in 1995 was 1.236
MGD. Overall, the capacity of the facility is considered sufficient to
handle demand during the study period. The town's existing and
projected sewer service area is delineated in Figure 9.
The wastewater treatment facility includes an aerated grit
removal tank, primary clarifiers, trickling filters, secondary clarifiers,
chlorinator tanks, aerobic digesters, biosolids drying beds, and
biosolids storage building. The discharge from the plant flows into
Calico Creek. The average daily wastewater discharge by month in
1995 was as follows:
Month_,.,,„„;;
Ducharge
�Monthry�
I) uch,.,..�R*, Qarge
January
1
,_w_,;_l
1.869 MGD
,�
July
1.075 MGD
February
1.570 MGD
August
1.030 MGD
March
1.241 MGD
September
1.025 MGD
1 April
1.009 MGD
October
1.215 MGD
May
0.970 MGD
November
1.168 MGD
June
1.216 MGD
December
1.069 MGD
1
1
1 2.000 Data Collection and Analysis —May 18, 1999
Morehead City C4M4 Land Use Plan Update 1-45

I
' The average flow to the wastewater treatment plant in 1995 was
approximately 1.26 MGD with variations as low as 0.913 MGD and as
high as 3.218 MGD. Although the wastewater treatment plant is
designed to adequately treat flows of 3.7 MGD, the state has mandated
that the monthly flow going into Calico Creek shall not exceed 1.7
' MGD. Since the operating capacity of the plant is 1.7 MGD, most
flow above that amount may overflow manholes and flow into Calico
Creek without treatment. The only time these overflows occur is when
1 the town receives heavy rainfalls of over 4 inches in a 24-hour period.
Such rainfall events generally occur one to two times per year. Water
enters the facility by way of old lines that are cracked or disjointed due
' to the age of some of the lines. The town will need to continue funding
repair programs such as line replacement and/or sliplining projects and
also expand the wastewater treatment plant to allow the high flows to
be pumped through the treatment facilities. The town regularly meets
monitoring and compliance standards for the wastewater treatment plant
as set forth by the state.
' As more stringent water quality standards are mandated,
Morehead City anticipates wastewater treatment plant improvements
' which will include nitrogen, phosphorous, and chlorine removal. The
town also plans to expand its wastewater treatment plant laboratory in
order to meet state requirements for increased monitoring of the
wastewater treatment facility as well as monitoring of water from the
town's wells.
' Morehead City is committed to the long-term goal, as outlined
in the Carteret County Sewer EIS, of eliminating its estuarine discharge
into Calico Creek. However, the town is under no state mandate at this
' time to do so nor does the EIS mandate such. The town will investigate
alternatives to its estuarine discharge and will comply with any future
state mandates. However, at this time, there has been no decision to
1 abandon the estuarine discharge nor to implement alternative sewage
disposal methods. Long-term solutions may or may not include
elimination of the estuarine discharge. The town currently participates
1 in the Carteret County Interlocal Agency and the Regional Wastewater
Task Force to develop solutions for discharge alternatives for treated
wastewater.
' 2.221.3 Police Protection. The Morehead City Police Department
provides police protection services to the town; police protection
services outside of the town limits is provided by the Carteret County
Sheriffs Department which is located in Beaufort. The Morehead City
Police Department, with a staff of 27 full-time officers, 4 part-time
officers, and a support staff of 6 nonswom employees, appears to have
adequate manpower to provide police services to the community.
National law enforcement standards recommend two police officers per
' 1,000 population.
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2.221.4 Fire Protection. The Morehead City Fire Department
provides prevention and fire suppression services to the town as well as
a fire district that encompasses the entire study area. The department
currently has 13 full-time and 25 volunteer firefighters and responds to
over 500 calls per year. Two fire stations are located in the
community, one on Evans Street in the municipal building and one in
west Morehead City on Arendell Street. All firefighting equipment
meets the National Fire Protection Association's standards and includes
one tanker, 3 pumpers, one utility truck, and one car for fire
inspections.
' The fire insurance rating within Morehead City is a 5 and a 9S
within the county portion of the fire district located outside of the
Morehead City corporate limits. With the recent annexations, an
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additional fire station will be required to maintain the current insurance
rating and to meet the Insurance Service Organization's standards if
one of the existing stations is not relocated.
2.221.5 Emergency Medical Services. The Morehead City
Rescue/EMS provides emergency medical services to the town and a
service district (which parallels the fire district). The Rescue/EMS
provides emergency medical treatment at the emergency medical
technician intermediate (EMT-1) level, which is the highest level of
emergency care provided within Carteret County. The Rescue/EMS
provides a 24-hour a day coverage 7 days a week with 2 paid personnel
on duty at all times. Volunteers answer calls if the paid crew is out.
There are a total of 7 full-time personnel and 7 volunteers. The
Rescue/EMS responded to 1,529 calls in 1995. Basic emergency
medical treatment and transportation to hospitals are the general
services provided by the rescue squad. The equipment and staffing of
the rescue squad appear adequate to provide emergency medical
services through the study period.
2.221.6 Solid Waste Collection and Disposal. Solid waste collection
and disposal, including brush and yard debris, and curbside recycling
are provided to the town through a contract with a private solid waste
collector. Solid waste is disposed of in a regional landfill located in
Craven County. The town is assessed tipping fees and this cost is met
with user fees. The anticipated life of the landfill is 5 years; plans are
already in progress for a permanent landfill. Carteret County contracts
for the operation of manned drop-off sites throughout the
extraterritorial planning region. County residents may utilize this
system or contract with private garbage collectors for their solid waste
needs.
2.221.7 Recreation. The Morehead City Parks and Recreation
Department provides recreational services to the town and many of the
county residents in the vicinity of Morehead City. The department
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maintains park facilities, which total about 20 acres, and operates an
extensive organized recreational and special events program. The
department provides one of the four indoor recreational facilities in
Carteret County; the Morehead City Community Center includes a
gym, weight room, game room, and meeting rooms. Based upon
national outdoor recreational space standards of six to ten acres per
1,000 population, 16 to 40 additional acres of outdoor recreational
space is needed. Bike trails have been identified as a specific
recreational need along with the need for more gyms and outdoor fields
(baseball, softball, soccer, and football) in the western part of town.
Playground equipment and neighborhood parks are a basic need for
Morehead City.
2.221.8 Education. Carteret County operates one elementary school,
' one primary school, one middle school, and two high schools in the
study area. Enrollment data for the schools is provided below:
' 1995-1996 School Year
Camp Glenn Elementary 391
Morehead Primary 823
' Morehead Middle 658
West Carteret High 1,545
' Cape Lookout High 48
Camp Glenn Elementary contains grades 4 and 5 only; Cape
' Lookout High School is an alternative school. All of the schools in the
study area with the exception of the Cape Lookout High School are
currently operating at or beyond their capacity. The county school
' system has proposed to begin construction by the end of 1996 of an
elementary and a high school in the Broad Creek area of western
Carteret County. Longer term, the county has also proposed a new
' middle school in the Newport area. These additional schools will help
to alleviate capacity problems in the Morehead City area schools.
Projections by the NC Department of Public Instruction indicate that
future student enrollment in Carteret County will grow at a slower pace
as the school -age population declines.
' Morehead City is also the location for Carteret Community
College which is of illy accredited institution specializing in vocational,
technical, and general education programs.
' 2.221.9 Public Administration Ability. The Town of Morehead City
operates under a council-manager form of government. The town has a
' municipal staff of 98 employees that perform general administration,
public works, public utilities, police, fire protection, emergency
medical, recreation, planning, and building inspection services. The
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current staffing level is considered sufficient to provide the level of
municipal services necessary to meet current and anticipated demand.
As part of the town's public improvements programming,
municipal departments prepare 5-year capital facility plans. These
plans are utilized to project capital needs and proposed improvements.
Such capital facility planning enables the town to better plan and budget
municipal facilities and services.
2.222 Transportation Services. The Town of Morehead City maintains over
37 miles of streets within its corporate limits. Major thoroughfares and other
streets outside of the town limits are maintained by the NC Department of
Transportation. The state also has maintenance responsibility for all bridges in
the area.
Based upon the Morehead City -Beaufort 1991 Thoroughfare Plan, three
streets within the study area are currently at or are exceeding their practical
capacity. These streets include (i) the US 70/NC 24 intersection, (ii) Arendell
Street from Bridges Street to Radio Island and (iii) Bridges Street from
Arendell Street to Barbour Road. North 35th Street and NC 24 west of the US
70/NC 24 intersection are classified as near practical capacity. The Causeway
from Morehead City to Atlantic Beach is also classified as near practical
capacity. Projections by the NC Department of Transportation indicate that by
2010, Barbour Road, 20th Street/Crab Point Road, and a portion of Mayberry
Loop Road will, in addition to the aforementioned streets, will also be near or
exceeding practical capacity. The table below shows the rapid increase in
traffic volumes on US 70, the major arterial highway in Morehead City:
TABLE 17
AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC
US 70
LOCATION 1989 1 5 1
_.,.'�:
East of the US 70/NC 24 Intersection 34,700 ADT 41,600 ADT
West of the Atlantic Beach Causeway 30,000 ADT 34,800 ADT
Central Business District 19,800 ADT 24,100 ADT
Source: NC Department of Transportation.
The 1996 North Carolina Department of Transportation's
Transportation Improvements Program (TIP) lists two major highway projects
that impact Morehead City. One, the Bridges Street Extension from the current
terminus at Arendell Street westward to the US Highway 70/NC Highway 24
intersection area, was completed in 1998. This extension of Bridges Street
includes a four -lane curb and gutter street on a new location generally located
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on the north side of US Highway 70 (see Figure 8). The second highway
improvements project listed in the TIP involves the multi -lane widening of NC
Highway 24 from Swansboro to US Highway 70 at Morehead City. Portions
of this proposed improvement are currently under construction. Completion of
the entire project is anticipated in 2001. The Morehead City Thoroughfare
Plan, available from the town or the NC Department of Transportation,
outlines recommendations for local street improvements. The major
recommendations are listed in Section 2.141.
Air service to Morehead City is provided by the Michael J. Smith Field
located in Beaufort. Commercial airports are located in nearby New Bem and
Jacksonville. Primary rail service to the area is provided by the Norfolk -
Southern Railroad Company through a leasing arrangement with the NC
Railroad Company. Secondary rail services are provided by the Beaufort -
Morehead City Railroad Company which operates east of the port, and the NC
Port Railway Commission which operates the port railroad. The Port of
Morehead City provides water transportation services [see Section 2.1261.
Commercial bus service is available to the area through Trailways.
2.230 Estimated Demand. In order to effectively address land development issues
' and to formulate community policies, it is necessary to project population and economic
change. Such projections are the basis for determining community facility and land use
needs. Consequently, the following sections discuss population projections, local
' economic forecasts, future land needs, and demands on community facilities and
services.
' 2.231 Population Projections. The town's population is projected to
increase during the planning period from 7,539 in 1995 to 8,582 in 2005. This
projection is based upon a growth rate that is comparable to that projected for
' Carteret County by the NC Office of State Planning. Morehead City's
projected growth rate is slightly higher than that anticipated for the state as a
whole. Appendix V provides historical and projected population data through
' 2010 for Carteret County and Morehead City. Population growth has, in the
past, resulted largely from annexation. Given the town's current policies on
expansion of the corporate limits and growth of the community, it is expected
t that annexation will continue to play a large role in the town's future population
increases.
' 2.232 Economic Outlook. No significant economic changes are forecast
during the planning period. The economy of Morehead City and Carteret
County is expected to remain based on retail trade, services, tourism,
' commercial fishing, and manufacturing. Morehead City's employment is
expected to continue to be centered around the services, retail trade,
government, manufacturing and transportation sectors of the economy.
' Overall, long-term employment growth in future years is anticipated to be
concentrated in non -manufacturing sectors of the economy. Tourism and
commercial fishing are expected to continue to play a prominent role in the
' local economy. Consistent with long-term forecasts by the NC Office of State
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Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1-51

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Planning, Morehead City's economic growth is, however, projected to be
somewhat slower through the end of this century than it was during the 1980s
and early 1990's.
2.233 Future Land Needs. Based upon the anticipated population increase
' of 1,043 persons by 2005 and the average household population size in the
1990 US Census of Population (2.15 persons per household), it is projected that
an additional 485 residential units will be needed through the end of the 10-year
' planning period. Assuming that future residential construction will basically
follow the existing housing distribution pattern, approximately 286 single-
family units, 146 multi -family units, and 53 manufactured homes will be added
' to the existing housing stock. Assuming also that current density levels will not
be significantly changed in the future, new single-family residential uses are
projected to account for between 67 and 136 acres of land, multi -family
' residential 17 to 24 acres, and manufactured homes 18 to 20 acres (see
Appendix W). Sufficient vacant land exists in the study area to accommodate
the projected residential growth.
The demand for additional nonresidential land is also expected to
increase during the planning period. Given the availability of commercially -
zoned vacant land, it is anticipated that new commercial development can be
primarily accommodated in existing commercial areas. Future commercial
development is projected to locate in the US 70 corridor, the Bridges Street
' corridor, the proposed Morehead City/Carteret County joint industrial park
adjacent to Neighborhood 8, and in the office and professional services area
located in the vicinity of the Carteret General Hospital. Future industrial
' development also can be readily located in existing industrially -zoned areas.
2.234 Summary of Community Facilities Needs. Based upon population
' projections and estimates of land needs, no additional major community
facilities will be required during the 10-year study period to accommodate the
anticipated growth. Public water system improvements which will be needed
' include a 500,000 gallon elevated storage tank and a new 1.0 MGD well.
Public sewer improvements planned during the study period include
replacements and improvements to the wastewater treatment plant and building
' additions to the laboratory. The town is committed to the long-term goal of
eliminating its estuarine discharge into Calico Creek. The town will investigate
alternatives to its estuarine discharge and will comply with any future state
' mandates. To date, no decision has been made to abandon the estuarine
discharge nor to implement alternative sewage disposal methods. As a result of
annexations that have expanded the town to the west, the town will need to
' provide a new fire station to maintain its present fire insurance rating unless
one of the existing fire stations is relocated. In order to provide outdoor
recreation space, as recommended by national standards, the town currently
' needs an additional 16 to 40 acres of outdoor space to meet existing demand
and 6 to 10 acres to meet the outdoor space needs of the projected population
increase during the study period.
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3.000 Policy
Statements
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' 3.000 POLICY STATEMENTS
' Vision Statement
Morehead City favors growth provided it is environmentally sound, appropriately designed,
appropriately located, retains Morehead City's identity, and preserves the quality of life. Improvements
' to infrastructure, including City services and facilities, are expected to meet current and projected
demands. The provision of such improvements shall be based upon its compatibility with the City's
development plans, the City's financial capacity and the economic feasibility of providing the municipal
' service.
The primary purpose of the land use plan update is to develop policy statements on those land use
t issues which will affect the Town of Morehead City during the ten-year planning period. Previous
sections of this update have addressed (i) existing conditions such as population, the local economy,
natural features, and current land use; (il) constraints to land development; and (iii) the projected demand
' on services. This section of the update provides policies designed to address land development growth
management issues.
' The policy statements are particularly important not only for use by the town but by other
governmental agencies as well. Specifically, policy statements have implications for: (i) local land
planning in Morehead City, (ii) CAMA development permits, and (iii) the review of projects utilizing state
' or federal funds as well as state and federal projects that may not be located with the town but which may
have a direct impact on Morehead City. Policies must be developed which are, at a minimum, equal to
and consistent with CAMA's guidelines and use standards for Areas of Environmental Concern. The
town may, however, develop policies which exceed the minimum standards established by CAMA for
Areas of Environmental Concern.
t Policy statements are useful to the town in establishing guidelines for day -today planning
endeavors such as rezoning requests, site plan review, subdivision plat review, zoning text amendments,
and requests for variances. Therefore, policy statements can serve as the basis for decision -making by the
' Morehead City Town Council, Planning Department staff, Planning Board, and Board of Adjustment.
Policy statements will also be utilized by CAMA to review requests for development permits in areas of
environmental concern. Consequently, land development projects that are not consistent with the town's
' policy statements will not be approved by CAMA. Similarly, projects which propose to utilize state or
federal funds will be reviewed for consistency with the policy statements.
' This section provides an analysis of previous policy statements outlined in the town's 1991 land
use plan and includes policy statements on resource protection, resource production and management,
economic and community development (including neighborhood -oriented land use policies), public
' participation, and storm hazard mitigation, post -disaster recovery, and evacuation. These policy
statements have been developed based upon the previous analysis of existing conditions, land use trends,
and constraints to land development. Citizen input through public meetings, the Planning Board, and the
Citizen's Advisory Committee was also instrumental in formulating the policy statements. Various
alternatives were considered by the town. Alternative policies which were discussed but not adopted are
summarized in Appendix X.
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' 3.100 Analysis Of Policy Statements In The 1991 CAMA Plan
' The 1991 CAMA Land Use Plan Update policy statements have been reviewed. This
section provides a summary evaluation of the major policies and recommendations delineated in
the 1991 Plan.
' 3.110 Former Resource Protection Policies. Specific resource protection policies in
the 1991 Plan addressed flood hazard areas, soil suitability/septic tank use, coastal
wetlands, estuarine waters and public trust areas, estuarine shoreline, sound and estuarine
system islands, freshwater wetlands, potable water supply protection, use of package
sewage treatment plants, stormwater runoff, marina and floating home development,
' industrial impacts on fragile areas, sea level rise impacts, and bulkhead installation.
The previously developed resource protection policies were consistent with
' CAMA policies and use standards except for a more restrictive policy concerning marina
construction in primary nursery areas. The policy in the 1991 Plan stated that marina
construction would not be permitted in estuarine waters which were classified as primary
nursery areas. CAMA regulations permit new marina development in primary nursery
areas provided that there is no dredging associated with the construction of the marina.
' The preservation of coastal wetlands was encouraged as was the conservation of
estuarine waters and public trust areas. Development of the estuarine shoreline was
allowed provided that there were no significant adverse impacts of estuarine resources
' and provided that development was consistent with CAMA and applicable town
regulations. Freshwater wetlands and sound and estuarine system islands, including
Sugarloaf Island, Phillips Island and the Newport Marshes, were recognized as important
natural areas. Annex (or Marsh) Island was not considered a fragile area that could be
negatively impacted by development since it is in public ownership and is used for
wetlands mitigation purposes.
' Policies also encouraged the State to update the Castle Hayne Aquifer Capacity
Use Study, supported the use of water conservation practices and groundwater protection
' measures, and discouraged the location of large water -using industries that would utilize
more water than could be treated by the town's wastewater treatment facility. Package
sewage treatment plants were permitted outside of the town's public sewer service area
provided they were designed to be compatible with the Morehead City sewer system in
the event they were ever incorporated into the town's sewer system.
Stormwater management policies promoted the use of best available management
practices and the coordination of the approval of land development projects with the NC
Division of Water Quality and the NC Division of Land Resources. The town proposed to
' investigate an ordinance which would require a drainage plan for major land development
projects. Such an ordinance has not been adopted but the town is currently preparing a
comprehensive stormwater assessment plan which will be used to establish stormwater
' management guidelines for future land development projects.
In addition to not allowing new marina construction in primary nursery areas,
' policies also stated that only docks and piers serving single-family residences would be
' 3.000 Policy Statements —May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-2

permitted in primary nursery areas. Dry stack storage boat facilities are allowed either
independent of or in conjunction with marina development.
1 State research in to the problems associated with sea level rise was encouraged.
No specific policy statements were developed due to the uncertainty surrounding the
' extent and magnitude of sea level rise.
Policies allowed bulkhead installation provided CAMA use standards were
t adhered to. The town, in reviewing specific requests for land development, has
approved land development projects which were consistent with its resource protection
policies. Some zoning classification changes have been made in order to keep zoning
provisions consistent with the policies of the land use plan. Morehead City has
continued to enforce its water and sewer ordinance as well as the town's Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance. The town is continuing to use its water and sewer impact fee
' ordinance to assist in financing the expansion of the capacity of the water and sewer
facilities.
' In general, areas in the Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction with significant
physical limitations have not been developed. Development within areas of
environmental concern has been compatible with CAMA regulations and the town's land
' use controls.
3.120 Former Resource Production and Management Policies. The policies in the
' 1991 Plan recognized the value of commercial and recreational fisheries to the area.
Specific policy statements were developed which concerned commercial and recreational
fisheries, off -road vehicles, and development impacts on resource areas.
' Policies stated that only water -dependent development would be allowed in
coastal wetland areas, that development should not have adverse impacts on riverine and
' estuarine water quality and on primary nursery areas, that trawling activities in estuarine
waters was not opposed, and that off -road vehicles would not be permitted on any sound
nor estuarine system island.
The town has striven to approve land development projects which were consistent
with its policy of allowing only those uses which require water access and cannot function
' elsewhere in coastal and estuarine waters which had no major significant adverse impact
on water quality and fish habitats.
t 3.130 Former Economic and Community Development Policies. Previous policies
addressed the town's commitment to provide and improve services to existing and future
development. Specific policy statements addressed general land development, desired
' types of urban growth patterns, local commitment to providing services to development,
redevelopment of developed areas, commitment to state and federal; programs, assistance
to channel maintenance projects, tourism, coastal and estuarine beach access, and
' anticipated residential development and requisite support services. Twenty-five policy
statements concerning specific land development concerns of seven neighborhoods were
also included in the 1991 Plan.
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The town's general land development policies stated that growth of the
community was a desirable objective, that the town would promote only those types of
development that do not significantly impact natural resources and which maintain the
town's present character, that development would be encouraged in and guided to areas
that have the necessary support infrastructure, that low -density residential development
would be promoted in areas adjacent to fragile areas and on the fringes of the
extraterritorial planning and zoning jurisdiction, that diversification in housing would be
encouraged and that improvements would continue to be made in the downtown area.
Policies promoted a variety of land uses that complement the needs of the town,
recommended that current residential densities be maintained, discouraged the
encroachment of nonresidential uses in existing residential neighborhoods, encouraged
multifamily and higher density residential development to locations with adequate
infrastructure, promoted in -fill development compatible with the density and scale of the
surrounding area, encouraged the redevelopment and restoration of the central business
district, encouraged the continued operation and expansion of the Port of Morehead City,
promoted commercial development in a nodal pattern along major highway corridors, and
discouraged intensive urban development in rural outlying areas that lack the necessary
support utilities and public services to accommodate such development.
Policy statements in the 1991 Plan concerning the provision of services to
development encouraged new development to locate within its water and sewer service
area, required voluntary annexation petitions for developments proposed outside of the
corporate limits that requested sewer service, required mandatory water and sewer
connections for all proposed developments within the corporate limits, and imposed water
and sewer impact fees on new development to assist in the financing of water and
wastewater facility improvements.
Policies also encouraged the redevelopment of older, established residential
neighborhoods and the redevelopment of the central business district as a retail, services,
office, and commercial marine center. Replacement of existing structures within AECs
was encouraged if such construction was consistent with CAMA requirements.
Tourism policy statements in the 1991 Plan encouraged the improvement of the
downtown waterfront district and promoted tourist support businesses and services in its
highway -oriented and downtown commercial areas.
Water access was encouraged to the maximum extent feasible. Public water
access in the downtown waterfront district redevelopment plans was encouraged as was
the continuation of the policy of ensuring that existing water access points, including
street ends and alleys, not be closed. A policy recommending amendments to the
Morehead City Subdivision Regulations and Zoning Ordinance to include provisions for
common water access in waterfront subdivisions and public water access for major
waterfront residential developments lead to revisions requiring such access. A policy
recommending amendments to the subdivision regulations to include provisions for the
mandatory dedication of recreational space or payment of an in -lieu -of fee also lead to
such revisions being made.
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The 1991 Plan also contained policies that centered around land use issues that
concerned particular sections of town rather than the town as a whole. These
' neighborhood -oriented policies addressed such issues as high-rise construction along the
waterfront, maintaining current residential densities, discouraging commercial
encroachment in established residential areas, and providing greater screening and
' buffering between nonresidential uses and abutting residences.
Morehead City has planned for the expansion of its water and sewer system
'
through its capital facility planning and budgeting. Water and sewer extensions have been
made to primarily residential areas located on the fringes of the corporate limits.
Annexation and the provision of all municipal services has often accompanied utility
'
extensions. Redevelopment of the downtown waterfront continues and components of the
redevelopment plan are currently being finalized. Amendments to the town's zoning
ordinance and subdivision regulations have been made which address many of the land
'
use issues identified in the 1991 Plan.
3.200 Development of Updated Resource Protection Policies
The major issues discussed in the formulation of resource protection policy statements
include the following topics (not presented here in any priority order):
• stormwater runoff impacts.
• water quality of surface and ground waters.
'
• options for the use of Sugarloaf Island.
• the potential economic and environmental impacts of deepening Calico Creek.
• long-term solutions to wastewater treatment and disposal
• the demand for and impacts of marinas.
• the conservation of Phillips Island and the Newport Marshes.
• preservation of wetlands.
• the implications of anticipated sea level rise.
• the designation of a portion of Calico Creek as a primary nursery area.
' The town's overall general policy concerning resource protection is to give the highest
priority to the protection and management of the area's natural resources, to safeguard and
perpetuate their biological, social, economic, and aesthetic values, and to ensure that development
occurring within natural resource areas is compatible with the characteristics of the natural areas
so as to minimize the likelihood of significant loss of private property and public resources. It is
the town's intent that its policies concerning resource protection policies be consistent with
' CAMA 7H Use Standards. After a discussion of resource protection issues, the policy statements
delineated in Section 3.210 through Section 3.290.2 were developed.
' 3.210 Constraints to Land Development.
3.211 Flood Hazard Areas.
1 Policy 1: The town will continue to enforce the Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance which requires new construction to be elevated at least one
' foot above the established 100-year flood elevation.
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Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-5

' Policy 2: The town will continue to participate in the Federal
Emergency Management Agency's Community Rating System Program which
' results in lower flood insurance rates.
3.212 Soil Suitability/Septic Tank Use.
' Policy l: In areas where municipal sewer service is unavailable
and the soils are identified as having severe limitation for urban development,
major new development shall be required, through the town's zoning ordinance
and subdivision regulations, prior to approval, to present data indicating how the
limitation can be mitigated. Major development is defined as shopping centers,
' office parks, planned unit developments, muld-family complexes, industrial
parks, and any residential subdivision that includes more than 5 acres.
Poles Public water and sewer will be required for all new
development occurring within the town's corporate limits in areas in which
municipal sewer service is available or can be made readily available.
Policy 3: Within the corporate limits, extension of water and sewer
to areas in which poor soil conditions create septic field problems shall have the
'
highest priority when the town undertakes system extensions.
Policy 4: The town will continue to review and evaluate its current
water and sewer extension policies to determine if revisions are necessary to
better encourage new development located outside of the existing service area to
utilize the town's water and sewer system.
'
Policy 5: Septic tank installation, where permissible, shall be in
accordance with applicable county health department regulations.
Policy 6: The minimum lot area requirement for parcels utilizing a
subsurface sewage disposal system shall, in accordance with the town's
subdivision regulations, be 20,000 square feet (or 15,000 square feet with an
'
approved public or community water system) unless a larger size is required by
the county health department.
Policy 7: The town will support voluntary annexation requests to
facilitate adequate wastewater disposal so as to prevent the installation of
additional septic systems and to improve environmental conditions, particularly in
for subsurface sewage disposal systems.
areas with poor soil conditions
' Policy 8: In order to discourage additional septic system use in
areas where municipal sewer service is currently unavailable, major subdivisions
(subdivisions of 5 or more lots) will be required, through the town's subdivision
' regulations, to contact the town during the subdivision review process to discuss
municipal sewer availability and the feasibility of extending the town's sewer
system to the subdivision.
3.000 Policy Statements —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-6

' 3.220 Areas of Environmental Concern.
The Town of Morehead City concurs with the CAMA 7H Use Standards for each
of the Areas of Environmental Concern delineated below. If the town's policies are more
restrictive than CAMA's use standards, that fact is noted.
' 3.221 Coastal Wetlands.
' Poles The highest priority will be given to the conservation of
coastal wetlands, identified on maps supplied by the Division of Coastal
Management, as of the highest functional significance.
1 Poll2: Only those uses which require water access and cannot
function elsewhere will be permitted in coastal wetlands. Those uses which
require water access and cannot function elsewhere include navigation channels,
dredging projects, docks, piers, bulkheads, boat ramps, groins, and bridges.
' Polcy 3: Marina construction will not be permitted in coastal
wetlands except in the case of an upland marina site requiring access dredging
only and meeting state and/or federal permitting requirements for acceptable
' impacts.
Polia 4• Coastal wetlands should only be filled in connection with
' activities or projects that are directly related to erosion control or water
dependent uses. However, coastal wetlands should only be filled in extreme
cases when a permit applicant has exhausted all means of avoiding coastal
wetlands in development of the project plans, and only in cases where the filling
of coastal wetlands would have an overwhelming public benefit and proper
mitigative measures are to be incorporated in the project.
3.222 Estuarine Waters and Public Trust Areas.
Policy 1: The highest priority will be given to the conservation of
estuarine waters.
PoOnly those uses which require water access and cannot
function elsewhere will be permitted in estuarine waters.
Policy 3: Marina construction will be permitted in estuarine waters
which are classified as primary nursery areas in accordance with the CAMA 7H
Use Standards, local zoning, and other land use regulations.
' Policy 4: Activities in estuarine and public trust waters shall not
permanently or significantly affect the functions, cleanliness, salinity, or
circulation of such waters.
' 3.000 Policy Statements —May 28,1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-7

3.223 Estuarine Shoreline.
Poles Development shall meet state and/or federal permitting
requirements for acceptable impacts.
' Policy 2: Development shall not interfere with existing public
rights of access to or use of navigable water or public resources.
' Policy 3: Appropriate land uses within the estuarine shoreline
include any permissible land uses authorized by the Morehead City Zoning
Ordinance and Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance that conforms to CAMA
development standards.
Policy 4: Estuarine shoreline development shall be designed to
adequately provide for stormwater runoff in accordance with state regulations.
3.230 Other Fragile Areas
' 3.231 Sound and Estuarine System Islands.
' Policy 1: The town wishes to promote flexible options for the use
of Sugarloaf Island. Sugarloaf Island contains limited wetlands and land subject
to flood hazard and is designated as Limited Transition on the Land Classification
' Map. Any use or development shall be in accordance with applicable CAMA
standards and will be subject to the provisions of the town's zoning ordinance and
other applicable town regulations and policies. -Any use shall be in accordance
with a comprehensive plan reviewed and approved by the town.
Policy 2: Phillips Island and the Newport Marshes, in addition to
being largely classified as wetlands and land subject to flood hazard, are
important heron nesting areas and will be designated as conservation areas.
Annex (or Marsh) Island is owned by the NC Ports Authority and since it is in
' public ownership and is used for wetlands mitigation purposes, it is not
considered as a fragile area that could be negatively impacted by development.
Poles The town encourages the public or private land trust
purchase and conservation of sound and estuarine system islands not otherwise
addressed herein.
3.232 Freshwater Wetlands
Poles The town will coordinate the review of land development
plans with the US Army Corps of Engineers when site plans indicate development
activities in areas identified as wetlands.
' Policy 2: The town prohibits any filling of freshwater wetlands
except as permitted by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
1
3.000 Policy Statements May28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-8

3.233 Historical and Archaeological Sites
' The study area contains no sites listed in the National Register of Historic
Places nor any sites on the Study List for future inclusion in the National
Register. While numerous recorded sites having archaeological significance are
located in Carteret County, none are known to be located within the study area.
Information .regarding locations for archaeological significant sites is not
available.
1 Morehead City does, however, contain sites which are of local historical
and architectural significance. The town will consider undertaking an historical
' survey to identify and evaluate such sites.
3.240 Hurricane and Flood Evacuation Needs and Plans.
(See Section 3.600)
' 3.250 Potable Water Supply Protection.
Policy I: The town, through its Zoning Ordinance, will discourage the
' location of large water -using industries in the Morehead City planning jurisdiction which
would utilize more water than could be treated by the town's wastewater treatment
facility.
Policy 2: The town will coordinate land development activities involving
hazardous chemical or petroleum storage and disposal with the appropriate county and
' state regulatory agencies. The town also supports management practices which address
the incidental use of hazardous materials such as insecticides, herbicides, fertilizers, etc.
' Poles The Town of Morehead City will support State monitoring of the
existing Castle Hayne Aquifer Capacity Use Study Area and enforcement of limiting the
use of the aquifer. The Town of Morehead City also supports and encourages the State to
' update the Castle Hayne Aquifer Capacity Use Study.
Policy 4: The town supports the use of water conservation practices and
' groundwater protection measures in order to prevent lowering the water table, to limit the
quantity of wastewater generated, and to protect the quality of water.
' Poli 5: The town will promote water conservation measures through the
development of incentive programs sponsored by the town's public utility department.
' 3.260 Use of Package Treatment Plants.
Pow Package treatment plants may be permitted in areas in which
municipal sewer service is currently unavailable and where the town has determined that
the municipal sewer system is not likely to be extended in the future, provided that they
conform to state permitting requirements and are designed for compatibility with the
Morehead City sewer system in the event of ultimately tying into the town's system.
3.000 Policy Statements—May18, 1999
Morehead City LAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-9

Policy 2: The town will require, through its Zoning Ordinance and
Subdivision Regulations, that a land development project proposing the use of a package
' treatment plant in areas in which municipal sewer service is currently unavailable and
where the town has determined that the municipal sewer system is not likely to be
extended in the future shall include (i) the formation of a legal, private entity to properly
' operate and maintain such package treatment plant and (ii) the development of a
contingency plan to own and operate such package treatment plant should the private
operation fail.
3.270 Stormwater Runoff, Water Quality Problems, and Management Measures.
Policy l: Morehead City will promote the use of best available
management practices to minimize the degradation of water quality resulting from
stormwater runoff; examples of these practices include using pervious or semi -pervious
materials for driveways and walks, retaining natural vegetation along marsh and
waterfront areas, and allowing stormwater to percolate into the ground rather than
discharging it directly to coastal waters.
Policy 2: The town will coordinate its approval of land development
projects with (i) the permitting requirements and stormwater regulations of the North
' Carolina Division of Water Quality, Water Quality Section, and (ii) the soil erosion and
sedimentation control regulations of the Land Quality Section of the North Carolina
Division of Land Resources.
' Policy 3: The town will develop a comprehensive stormwater assessment
plan which will evaluate the existing stormwater drainage system and which will be
' utilized to establish guidelines for future land development consistent with state
regulations.
Policy 4: The town promotes the coordination with adjoining local
government jurisdictions of comprehensive stormwater management practices and policies
to enhance water quality,
' Poli 5: The town will continue to participate in the Carteret County
Interlocal Agency and the Regional Wastewater Task Force to develop solutions for
discharge alternatives for treated wastewater and will continue to investigate
alternatives to its estuarine discharge.
' Policy 6: The town encourages marina siting and design which promotes
proper flushing action. Such design features include locating marinas near inlets,
maximizing the opening of entrance channels, and minimizing stagnant corners by using
rounded corners, level bottoms sloping towards the entrance, and avoiding bends.
Policy 7.• The town supports the goals of the White Oak River Basinwide
Water Quality Plan.
1000 Policy Statements—May28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA land Use Plan Update 3-10

3.280 Marina and Floating Home Development.
The town concurs with the CAMA definition and use standards for marinas.
PoLa 1: Marina construction, except for marinas requiring only access
' dredging, will not be allowed in wetland areas. Marina construction will be permitted in
estuarine waters which are classified as primary nursery areas in accordance with the
CAMA 7H Use Standards, zoning, and other local land use regulations.
' Policy 2: Upland marina construction will be permitted in areas located
adjacent to primary nursery areas in accordance with the CAMA 7H Use Standards,
' zoning, and other local land use regulations.
Policy 3. Piers serving residential uses and nonresidential uses allowed by
zoning shall be permitted in primary nursery areas.
Policy 4: The town will continue to enforce the zoning ordinance
' provisions regarding docks, piers, and floating structures.
Policy 5: Dry stack storage boat facilities, either in conjunction with or
' independent of marina development, may be permitted in accordance with provisions of
the Zoning Ordinance. Water access to such facilities shall meet state and/or federal
permitting requirements for acceptable impacts on active shellfishing areas.
Policy 6: Morehead City opposes the location of floating structures in all
primary nursery areas, outstanding resource waters, public trust areas, and estuarine
' waters except that floating structures are allowed in marinas and are required to have an
approved sewage hook-up or a self-contained holding tank. Floating structures are
defined as any structure, not a boat, supported by a means of flotation, designed to be
' used without a permanent foundation, which is used or intended for human habitation or
commerce. A structure will be considered a floating structure when it is inhabitated or
used for commercial purposes for more than thirty days in any one location. A boat may
be deemed a floating structure when its means of propulsion has been removed or
rendered inoperative and it contains at least 200 square feet of living space area. A boat
is defined as a vessel or watercraft of any type or size specifically designed to be self-
propelled, whether by engine, sail, oar, or paddle or other means, which is used to travel
from place to place by water.
Policy 7: Public mooring fields shall be permitted in accordance with
CAMA regulations.
' Poles The town encourages marina siting and design which promotes
proper flushing action. Such design features include locating marinas near inlets,
maximizing the opening of entrance channels, and minimizing stagnant comers by using
' rounded corners, level bottoms sloping towards the entrance, and avoiding bends.
3.000 Policy Statements May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-11

' 3.290 Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas.
' Policy 1: Industrial land uses shall be allowed to locate on lands classified
as freshwater wetlands only if the US Army Corps of Engineers has determined that the
proposed use meets the permitting requirements for acceptable impacts on the wetlands.
' Policy 2: The town, through its Zoning Ordinance and site review
procedures, will ensure that industrial development does not adversely impact identified
fragile lands.
3.290.1 Sea Level Rise Impacts.
1
I
CJ
1
Policy 1: Due to the uncertainty surrounding the extent and magnitude of
sea level rise, the Town of Morehead City does not feel it is in a position at this time to
develop a specific policy statement.
Policy 2: The town supports continued state research into the problems
associated with sea level rise and will consider the development of policies to address sea
level rise as more data concerning problem definition and alternative solutions are made
available.
3.290.2 Bulkhead Installation Damage to Marshes.
Policy 1: Morehead City will permit bulkhead installation provided that all
of the use standards of 15 NCAC 711.0208(b)(7) are adhered to.
3.300 Development of Updated Resource Production and Management Policies
The major issues discussed in the development of resource production and management
policy statements centered around the following topics:
• the impact of land development activities on marine fisheries.
• off -road vehicle use in fragile environments.
• the presence of prime agricultural land and commercial forest land in the Morehead
City Planning Jurisdiction.
• the designation of a portion of Calico Creek as a primary nursery area.
Following a discussion of the above issues, the resource production and management
policies outlined in Section 3.310 through Section 3.370 were formulated. The town's overall
general policy concerning resource production and management is to support the effective
management of the area's natural resources so as to ensure the continued environmental and
economic well being of the Morehead City planning jurisdiction. The town will continue to
consider the impacts on local and regional natural resources in all land development decisions and
will seek to improve the cooperation and coordination with other public and private agencies
involved with natural resource production and management. It is the town's intent that its policies
concerning resource production and management be consistent with CAMA 7H Use Standards.
3.000 Policy Statements —May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA land Use Plan Update 3-12

3.310 Productive Agricultural Lands. Very little productive agricultural lands are
located within the Morehead City planning area. Therefore, no policy statement is
'
necessary.
3.320 Commercial Forest Lands. No commercial forest lands are located within the
'
Morehead City planning area. Therefore, no policy statement is necessary.
3.330 Mineral Production Areas. No existing or potential mineral production areas
are located within the Morehead City planning area. Therefore, no policy statement is
necessary.
3.340 Commercial and Recreational Fisheries.
Poll l: Morehead City will allow in coastal wetland areas only those
'
developments which require water access and cannot function elsewhere and which will
meet state and/or federal permitting requirements for acceptable impacts on coastal and
estuarine water fish habitats.
Poll 2: The town will cooperate with the Water Quality Section, NC
Division of Water Quality to preserve and improve riverine and estuarine water quality.
'
Policy 3: Morehead City will ensure that developments locating adjacent to
coastal waters make every effort to mitigate any adverse effects on riverine and estuarine
'
water quality and on primary nursery and fish habitat areas.
Poll 4: Marina construction will be permitted in accordance with the
CAMA 7H Use Standards, zoning, and other local land use regulations.
Policy 5: Trawling activities in estuarine waters are not opposed by the
town as long as such activities meet state and/or federal permitting requirements for
acceptable impacts on the estuarine waters.
' 3.350 Off -Road Vehicles.
Policy l: Off -road vehicles will not be permitted, through the town's
' general ordinance powers, on any sound and estuarine system islands. Off -road vehicle
use in other sections of the planning area is not considered an issue.
P
1]
3.360 Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Land Development Impacts on
Resources.
Poll l: Only those uses which require water access and cannot function
elsewhere will be permitted in coastal wetlands.
Policy 2: Residential, commercial or industrial land development in the
estuarine shoreline will be allowed only if the applicable permitting agency has
determined that such development meets state and/or federal permitting requirements for
acceptable impacts on estuarine resources and water quality.
3.000 Policy Statements —May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-13

Policy 3: Marina construction will be permitted in accordance with CAMA
' 7H Use Standards, zoning, and other local land use regulations.
3.370 Peat or Phosphate Mining Impacts on Resources.
' Policy I: Peat or phosphate mining operations are not now nor are they
anticipated to be located in the Morehead City planning area. Such mining operations
would, however, not be permitted within the town's planning jurisdiction under the
current zoning restrictions.
3.400 Development of Updated Economic and Community Development Policies
A wide array of issues were identified as economic and community development policy
statements were being formulated. The major issues involved the following topics:
• maintaining low residential densities.
• the impacts of high-rise development.
'
• redevelopment of the downtown area.
• managing infill development in established residential areas.
• commercial land use encroachment in residential areas.
'
• the economic impact of the NC State Port.
• managing strip commercial development adjacent to US 70.
• the impact of tourism on Morehead City.
'
• improvements to major thoroughfares.
• promoting voluntary annexations.
• the potential economic impact of future development on Calico Bay.
• protection of the Norfolk -Southern Railroad corridor.
• provision of waterfront access.
'
• annexation of outlying, developed areas.
• promoting industrial development.
' After a discussion of economic and community development issues, the policy statements
delineated in Section 3.410 through Section 3.490.27 were formulated. Morehead City's overall
general policy concerning economic and community development is to consider growth of the
' community as a desirable objective. Further, the town will promote only those types of
development that do not significantly impact natural resources and which retain and maintain the
town's present character.
3.410 General Land Development Policies
' Policy I: The town will encourage land development in areas that currently
have the necessary support infrastructure (water, sewer, streets, etc.) or where these
services can readily be made available. Land development will be guided to areas that
' have public water and sewer services and an adequate street system to accommodate
increased land development.
3.000 Policy Statements —May 28, 1999
Morehead City C4M4 Land Use Plan Update 3-14

' Po9a 2: The town will promote the continued low -density residential
development character of areas located on the fringes of the extraterritorial jurisdiction
' and in locations adjacent to identified fragile areas.
Policy 3: Morehead City will promote the diversification of housing in
varying types, densities, and costs to meet the demands of all income levels and age
groups.
' Policy 4: The town will strive to provide a safe, efficient, and well -
maintained street system consistent with the town's adopted thoroughfare plan.
' Policy 5: The town will encourage voluntary annexations as a mechanism
for promoting orderly city growth and utility extensions.
Policy 6: Morehead City will continue to improve its downtown area and
will work towards implementation of the Downtown Improvement Program.
' Policy 7: The town will support local intergovernmental cooperation with
regard to land use planning issues, such as ETJ areas, Radio Island, annexation
agreements, industrial park development, and utility extensions and agreements.
' Poli 8: The town encourages the establishment of bike trails within its
jurisdictional area.
' 3.420 Desired Types of Urban Growth Patterns.
Policy 1: Morehead City will continue to promote a variety of land uses
which complement the residential, commercial, institutional, recreational and industrial
needs of the community.
' Policy 2: Current residential densities will be maintained in order to
preserve the overall low -density character of Morehead City's residential sector.
' Poka 3: The residential integrity of existing neighborhoods will be
maintained by discouraging the encroachment of non-residential uses into such areas.
' Policy 4: Multi -family and higher density residential development will be
encouraged at a moderate density range of six to sixteen dwelling units per acre. Such
' development will be guided to locations in which adequate water and sewer services and a
sufficient street system are available. High-rise residential development will be
encouraged only where emergency services can be adequately provided.
' Policy 5: In -fill development in existing residential areas will be
encouraged only if it is compatible in density and scale to that in the surrounding area.
' Pola Morehead City will encourage the redevelopment and restoration
of the central business district as a retail, business and professional services, office, and
' commercial marine center of the community. The town will encourage uses which
3.000 Policy Statements —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-1 S

I
' provide for a multi -purpose central business district which includes living space as well as
shopping and services. The town will promote the adaptive reuse of buildings in the
' central business district.
Poles The town will encourage future commercial development along
' major highway corridors to locate in a nodal pattern rather than a linear strip pattern.
The town will also encourage planned commercial development rather than small,
individual lot development.
' Poli 8: Neighborhood -oriented commercial development will be
encouraged only in areas where such use is compatible with existing surrounding and
t anticipated residential areas and where the street system is adequate to accommodate
commercial vehicular traffic.
' Poles Morehead City will encourage the type of industrial development
that is consistent with the community's present manufacturing base and which has limited
off -site impacts.
' Policy 10: Industrial development will be encouraged in those sections of town
with adequate public water and sewer services and vehicular access to a major arterial
' highway.
Policy 11: The town encourages the continued operation and expansion of the
' Port of Morehead City.
Policy 12: The town will promote the location of office and professional land
' uses in transitional areas between intensive nonresidential uses and residential
neighborhoods.
' Policy 13: Intensive urban development in rural outlying areas of the planning
area that lack the necessary support utilities and public services to accommodate such
development will be discouraged.
' 3.430 Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development.
' Policy 1: Morehead City has the current capacity to provide water and
sewer service to anticipated future development through the planning period. Therefore,
the town will encourage new development to locate within its water and sewer service
' area.
Pollcv 2: Any development located outside of the corporate limits
' requesting water and sewer service from the town will be required to petition for
voluntary annexation to the town.
' Policy 3: Any development occurring within the corporate limits will be
required to connect to the town's water and sewer systems.
1
3.000 Policy Statements —May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-16

tPolicy 4: Expansion of and improvements to the town's water and sewer
systems will be planned through a capital improvements program and budget. Water and
' sewer impact fees will be utilized to assist in the financing of water and wastewater
facility improvements.
' 3.440 Redevelopment of Developed Areas.
Policy 1: The town encourages the redevelopment of older, established
' residential neighborhoods at the same density and intensity of scale as that currently
existing in the neighborhoods.
' Policy 2: The town will continue to seek revitalization grants from the
Community Development Block Grant Program to assist in the financing of housing and
neighborhood improvements in low- and moderate -income areas and economic
' development grants to assist commercial and industrial development.
Policy 3: Morehead City encourages continued efforts to redevelop the
central business district as a retail, business and professional services, office, and
commercial marine center. The town will continue to investigate possible zoning
ordinance amendments which will allow residential uses as well as mixed uses. Off-street
' parking requirements for the central business district will continue to be evaluated to
ensure equity for all land uses.
' Policy 4: The town will continue to cooperate with and assist the
Morehead City Downtown Business Council, the Morehead City Parking Committee,
and the Waterfront Development Committee.
' Poles Replacement of existing structures within AECs shall be
permitted in accordance with the CAMA requirements of 15 NCAC 7J.0210 and .0211.
' 3.450 Commitment to State and Federal Programs.
' PoLa 1: Morehead City will evaluate state and federal programs which
impact the town's development. The town's policy has generally been to assist and
cooperate with state and federal offices in local development programs. This policy will
' be continued as the town is involved in such state and federal programs as highway, rail,
air, and water transportation improvements, solid waste disposal, water quality,
community development, stormwater management, and military facilities.
' Policy 2: Morehead City supports the state port facility and efforts by the
NC State Ports Authority to improve port facilities for cargo handling as well as its
' channel deepening project.
1
3.000 Policy Statements—May28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-17

I
3.460 Assistance to Channel Maintenance Projects.
' Policy 1: Morehead City will cooperate and assist the US Army Corps of
Engineers in its efforts to maintain channels.
'Policy 2: The town will assist in channel maintenance projects by helping
to locate spoil sites.
' Policy 3: The town will work with the Corps of Engineers and the Division
of Coastal Management to extend the Morehead City harborline south of its present
location in order to promote economic development in the downtown area.
Poli 4: The town recognizes the problem with the siltation of the
Newport River and supports dredging efforts to eliminate the adverse impacts of siltation
' on the productivity of the river.
3.470 Energy Facility Siting and Development.
' Because no electric generating plant other than a Carolina Power and Light
Company emergency standby generating facility is currently located or proposed to be
' located in the Morehead City area, a policy statement concerning such facilities is not
applicable.
' Policy I: The Town of Morehead City does not oppose offshore
exploratory drilling for oil or gas nor the onshore development necessary to support
offshore drilling as long as (i) the activities meet state and/or federal permitting
' requirements for acceptable impacts and (ii) any identified adverse economic impacts on
Morehead City can be mitigated or negated.
3.480 Tourism.
Policy 1: The town supports efforts by the Chamber of Commerce,
' Tourism Development Bureau, and Economic Development Council to promote the area
for tourism development.
' PoLia 2 Morehead City will continue to provide assistance to upgrade and
improve the downtown waterfront district.
' Policy 3: Morehead City will promote tourist support businesses and
services in its highway -oriented and downtown commercial areas.
' 3.490 Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access.
policy I: The town will continue to encourage public water access to the
' maximum extent feasible. The town will consider seeking grant assistance through the
Division of Coastal Management to develop a waterfront access plan.
3.000 Policy Statements May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-18

' Policy 2: Morehead City will include public water access in its plans to
redevelop the downtown waterfront district.
' Policy 3: The town will continue to ensure that existing water access
points, including street ends and alleys, are not closed.
' Policy 4: The town will seek funding assistance to develop the potential
water access points identified in its Recreation Department Capital Facility Plan.
' Poli 5: The town will require, through its Subdivision Regulations and
Zoning Ordinance, provisions for common water access in waterfront subdivisions and
' public water access for major residential developments which adjoin a waterfront for a
distance of 1200 feet or more.
' 3.490.1 Anticipated Residential Development and Requisite Support Services.
Residential development which is projected for future years will primarily involve low -
density single-family residences at a density of 2 to 4 dwelling units per acre. Such
development is anticipated principally in the western and northern portions of the town's
planning jurisdiction. Multi -family residential development is projected to occur, for the
most part, at a moderate -density of 6 to 16 dwelling units per acre. Multi -family
development is expected to locate in areas currently zoned for such use (R5 District by
special use permit), principally the older residential areas surrounding the central business
district and areas along the Bridges Street corridor. Existing public facilities and services
' are generally considered adequate to serve the projected residential development through
the planning period. Recreational space is the only service need that might be generated
by increased residential development.
' Policy 1: The town will promote residential densities as outlined above. Higher
densities will be permitted only in areas with public water and sewer services and with a
street system that has the capacity to sufficiently handle increased vehicle trips.
Policy 2: The town will continue to require, through its subdivision regulations,
provisions for the mandatory dedication of recreational space or payment of an in -lieu of
fee in major residential subdivision developments.
' 3.490.2Other Identified Local Land Development Issues. In addition to the general
community development issues and policies discussed previously, a variety of land
development concerns exist that are centered more around particular sections of town than
the town as a whole. Consequently, the following policies are developed to address those
issues and are presented by neighborhood planning area.
' 3.490.21 Neighborhood 1.
Poli 1: Morehead City will encourage the redevelopment and
' restoration of the central business district as a retail, business and professional
services, office, and commercial marine center of the community. The town will
encourage uses which provide for a multi -purpose central business district which
3.000 Policy Statements—May28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-19

1 includes living space as well as shopping and services. The town will promote
the adaptive reuse of buildings in the central business district.
Policy 2: The town will cooperate with and assist the NCDOT
and the Norfolk -Southern Railroad in preserving US 70 and the railroad as a vital
' transportation corridor.
Policy 3: The town will continue to address the parking
' concerns and issues in the downtown area and will consider alternative traffic
patterns as a possible solution to parking concerns.
' Policy 4: The town will continue to support the redevelopment
of the Morehead City waterfront.
' Policy 5: The town will work with the Corps of Engineers and
the Division of Coastal Management to extend the Morehead City harborline
south of its present location in order to promote economic development in the
downtown area.
3.490.22 Neighborhood 2.
' Policy 1: The town will prohibit any commercial rezoning in the
Evans and Shepard Street areas in order to limit commercial encroachment into
' residential areas.
Policy 2: The creation of additional commercial districts on
' Arendell Street in Neighborhood 2 will also be discouraged by avoiding the
rezoning of existing residential areas to commercial zoning districts.
' Policy 3: The current use, density, and building height
requirements of the R5S classification will be maintained to ensure the existing
character of the neighborhood.
Polia 4: Street and alley ends that terminate at Bogue Sound
will be kept open as public water access points.
' 3.490.23 Neighborhood 3.
' Policy 1: The town will encourage, through its zoning
ordinance, screening and buffering between nonresidential uses and adjacent
residences.
Policy 2: The highest priority for the development of major
vacant parcels located north of Avery Street will be given to residential use .
' Poles The town will promote the enhancement of the North
20th Street corridor as a major thoroughfare to improve access to the residential
' areas located in the northern section of town.
3.000 Policy Statements —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-20

Policy 4. The town will promote traffic improvements on Tootle
' Road and Mayberry Loop Road through roadway realignment and through the
installation of sidewalks and roadway improvements.
' Poles: Commercial rezonings that promote neighborhood
retail and service uses will be closely evaluated to monitor impacts on community
character and scale.
3.490.24 Neighborhood 4.
' Policy 1: The review of development plans for tracts where
potential wetlands have been identified will be coordinated with the US Army
Corps of Engineers.
' Policy 2: Morehead City will continue to promote development
in this neighborhood which is comprised of a variety of land uses --office and
professional, medium -density residential, light industrial, and commercial.
Policy 3:3: The town will strive to maintain the Barbour Road
' extension as a local north -south collector street and will discourage abutting
development that negatively impacts the functional capacity of the street.
Poles The town will pursue the installation of sidewalks and
roadway improvements along Barbour Road and the North 35th Street corridor.
' 3.490.25 Neighborhood 5.
Policy l: The review of development plans for tracts where
' potential wetlands have been identified will be coordinated with the US Army
Corps of Engineers.
' Policy 2: Low -density residential development will be promoted
in those areas lacking public water and wastewater facilities.
' Policy 3: Medium -density residential development will be
encouraged in those areas with public water and sewer, with vehicular access to
major streets, and in transitional locations between intensive nonresidential uses
and existing low -density residential areas.
Policy 4: The town will pursue the installation of sidewalks and
' roadway improvements along Barbour Road and the North 35th Street corridor.
Policy 5: The town supports the policy of limiting curb cuts on
the Bridges Street Extension. New development will be encouraged to provide
connecting and/or shared parking lots, if economically feasible, in order to
reduce the number of curb cuts along the corridor.
3.000 Policy Statements —May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-21

I
' Policy 6: The town will, upon the completion of the Bridges
Street Extension, evaluate the feasibility of improvements to Country Club Road
' and Friendly Road to improve traffic flow and will evaluate the need for a
connector street west of Friendly Road to connect Bridges Street Extension and
Country Club Road.
' Policy 7.• The town recognizes the problem with the siltation of
the Newport River and supports dredging efforts to eliminate the adverse impacts
' of siltation on the productivity of the river.
3.490.26 Neighborhood 6.
Policy 1: The town will discourage nonresidential development
adjacent to the Bogue Sound waterfront within existing residential neighborhoods.
' Policy 2: Morehead City will work with the North Carolina
Department of Transportation (NCDOT) on installing landscaping improvements,
pedestrian walkways and bicycle paths from the NCDOT welcome station to the
commercial areas located to the west.
Policy 3: The current use, density, and building height
requirements of the residential zoning classification in this neighborhood will be
maintained to ensure the existing character of the area.
Policy 4: The town will continue to install water and sewer
system improvements to newly annexed areas.
' Policy 5: The town will strive to improve recreational
opportunities through the development of a park in the western section of town.
' Policy 6: New development, along the Highway 70 corridor,
will be encouraged to provide connecting and/or shared parking lots, if
' economically feasible, in order to reduce the number of curb cuts along the
corridor.
' 3.490.27 Neighborhood 7.
Policy 1: The review of development plans for tracts where
' potential wetlands have been identified will be coordinated with the US Army
Corps of Engineers.
' Policy 2: Low -density residential development will be promoted
in those areas lacking public water and wastewater facilities.
' Policy 3: Medium -density residential development, including
manufactured home park development, will be encouraged to locate in those
areas with public water and sewer and with vehicular access to major streets.
3.000 Policy Statements —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-22

Policy 4. Development plans for tracts where severe soils
limitation have been identified shall include information and plans to mitigate
' such soils limitations.
Poli 5: The town will promote the enhancement of the North
' 20th Street corridor as a major thoroughfare to improve access to the residential
areas located in the northern section of town.
Policy 6: The town will promote traffic improvements on Tootle
Road and Mayberry Loop Road through roadway realignment and through the
installation of sidewalks and roadway improvements.
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Policy 7: The town will promote single-family zoning and will
discourage zoning classifications that would allow additional manufactured home
development in the Crab Point area.
Policy 8: The town will promote R-20, Single-family and R-
15SM, Single-family and Manufactured Home zoning in the Crab Point Loop
Road and Shady Lane areas.
3.490.28 Neighborhood S.
Po!Lcy I Morehead City will work with the North Carolina
Department of Transportation (NCDOT) on installing landscaping improvements,
pedestrian walkways and bicycle paths from the NCDOT welcome station to the
commercial areas located to the west.
Policy 2: The town will encourage the annexation of adjacent
areas to promote jobs and economic development.
Policy 3: The town will study water system improvements,
including the installation of an elevated water storage tank, to promote industrial
and economic development.
Policy 4: The town will study landscaping and curb cut issues
along the US Highway 70 and NC Highway 24 corridors.
Policy 5: The town will strive to improve recreational
opportunities through the development of a park in the western section of town.
Policy 6: New development, along the Highway 70 corridor,
will be encouraged to provide connecting and/or shared parking lots, if
economically feasible, in order to reduce the number of curb cuts along the
corridor.
Polices The town supports cooperating with the Town of
Newport to construct interconnecting water mains to provide a backup water
supply for each community.
3.000 Policy Statements—May18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-13

' 3.490.29 Neighborhood 9.
Policy 1: The town will discourage nonresidential development
adjacent to the Bogue Sound waterfront within existing residential neighborhoods.
' Poles Low -density residential development will be promoted
in those areas lacking public water and wastewater facilities.
Poles The current use, density, and building height require-
ments of the residential zoning classifications in this neighborhood will be
maintained to ensure the existing character of the area.
Policy 4: Medium -density residential and mixed -use develop-
ment will be encouraged in those areas with public water and sewer, with
' vehicular access to major streets, and in transitional locations between intensive
nonresidential uses and existing low -density residential areas.
Policy 5 The town will encourage better interconnection
between residential developments located along the NC Highway corridor so that
local residential vehicular traffic is not totally dependent upon Highway 24 for
' access and circulation.
Policy 6: The town will support the extension of Little Nine
Road from its present terminus southward to NC Highway 24 in order to improve
access between Highway 24 and US Highway 70.
' 3.500 Development of Updated Continuing Public Participation Policies
The Town of Morehead City recognizes the importance of providing citizens with
' opportunities to participate in the community's planning process. The town also recognizes that
citizen participation and citizen education must be made available on a continuing basis. To that
end, the town adopted a citizen participation plan during the initial stages of the CAMA Land Use
' Plan Update process. The Citizen Participation Plan provided for (i) the appointment by the
Town Council of a seven -member citizens advisory committee composed of citizens that represent
a cross-section of the community; (ii) meetings of the advisory committee at strategic points in the
' land use update process; (iii) dividing the town into eight neighborhood planning areas and having
two public meetings that concentrated on the neighborhood planning areas; (iv) a public meeting
with the Morehead City Planning Board to review the draft land use plan update; (v) newspaper
' releases concerning the land use planning process, preliminary plan, and final plan; (vi) a public
hearing before the Town Council to review and adopt the Land Use Plan Update; and (vii) public
notices in the local newspaper of meetings and the availability of the draft plan. An
' intergovernmental coordination meeting, sponsored by the Carteret County Mayor's Association,
was held with Carteret County and the municipalities within the county. The purpose of the
meeting was to identify and discuss significant land use issues of common concern. A complete
' listing of activities which implemented the town's citizen participation plan as well as a copy of
the Citizen Participation Plan adopted by the Town of Morehead City is provided in Appendix Y.
3.000 Policy Statements —May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-14

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The town has assessed the effectiveness of its citizen participation plan and has
determined that the process permitted broad public participation at key formulative stages in the
preparation of the land use plan update. In addition to allowing citizen input, the process also
helped to educate the public about land use planning and the management and protection of
natural resources. It shall be the policy of the Town of Morehead City to continue to use the
local news media and publicly -posted notices to inform the citizens of the various opportunities
for input into land use planning and related policy matters.
The Morehead City Town Council has been involved with the Land Use Plan Update
throughout the plan preparation process. The Town Council appointed an advisory committee
responsible for drafting the plan update and reviewed and adopted the Citizen Participation Plan.
Two Town Council members were on the advisory committee and served as the liaison between
the Town Council and the advisory committee, making periodic progress reports to the Town
Council. The Town Manager, also a member of the advisory committee, and the Planning
Director also made monthly status reports to the Town Council. The Town Council reviewed the
preliminary draft plan prior to its submission to the Division of Coastal Management for
comments. A public hearing on the adoption of the final plan update will be conducted by the
Town Council.
The town will ensure a continuous planning process by conducting periodic reviews of the
' Land Use Plan's policies. This review will be the responsibility of the Morehead City Director of
Planning who will coordinate such reviews with the Planning Board and Town Council.
' 3.600 Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans
The Morehead City Town Council adopted a Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post -Disaster
' Recovery Plan in 1984. The plan, prepared by George Eichler and Associates and Satilla
Planning, Inc., is available for review at the Morehead City Planning Department. The purpose
of the plan is to (i) assist the town in managing land development in identified hazard areas and
' (ii) provide a program that enables the town to coordinate an organized and efficient
reconstruction in the aftermath of a storm.
' The Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan defines the storm hazard areas as the estuarine
shoreline AEC and the 100-year flood hazard area, discusses the development within the hazard
areas, and estimates the severity of potential hazard area damages. Existing and recommended
' storm hazard mitigation policies are outlined on pages 8 through 10 in the plan and are
reproduced in Appendix Z of this land use plan update. The Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan
(pages 11 through 22) provides for the organization of a local damage assessment team, outlines
' damage assessment procedures and regulations, delineates an organization of recovery operations,
and recommends reconstruction policies (the Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan and policies are
reproduced in Appendix Z of this land use plan update). The town will continue to evaluate its
Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post -Disaster Recovery Plan to ensure that the plan's objectives are
being implemented.
' In the interim following the preparation of the 1984 Plan, Storm Surge Inundation Areas
have been delineated by the US Army Corps of Engineers as part of the Eastern NC Hurricane
Evacuation Study (1987). While the storm surge areas generally parallel the 100-year flood
' hazard areas shown in Figure 4, there are some additional parts of the study area that are subject
3.000 Policy Statements —May 28,1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-15

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to hurricane -induced flooding. These areas are primarily (i) the eastern end of the Morehead City
peninsula between Bogue Sound and Calico Bay from about 17 Street to 4th Street; (ii) the
northeastern portion of the Morehead City Country Club Golf Course and the abutting residential
areas west of Country Club Road; and (iii) the residential areas located generally north of Bogue
Sound between Peletier Creek and Rochelle Drive. Of these three areas, the most intensely
developed is the eastern peninsula area which includes portions of Neighborhoods 1, 2 and 3 as
described in Section 2.130. This area contains a portion of the central business district,
commercial establishments along the Arendell and the Bridges Street corridors, and a mixture of
residential and institutional uses. It is estimated that the area contains approximately 1200
dwelling units and numerous commercial and institutional uses. The area west of Peletier Creek
is predominantly residential, containing an estimated 250 dwelling units. Storm surge areas are
shown in the Composite Hazards Map (Figure 10).
Flooding as well as high winds would impact the Morehead City area during a major
coastal storm. The table below describes the impact of the various categories of hurricanes:
TABLE 18
DESCRIPTION OF HURRICANE CATEGORIES
Category
Winds
Storm Surge
Damage Expected
Category 1
74-95 MPH
4-5 Feet
Minimal Damage
Category 2
96-110 MPH
6-8 Feet
Moderate Damage
Category 3
111-130 MPH
9-12 Feet
Extensive Damage
Category 4
131-155 MPH
13-18 Feet
Extreme Damage
Category 5
155+ MPH
18+ Feet
Catastrophic Damage
The following policies are developed to mitigate the effects of high winds, storm surge,
and flooding.
Policy 1: Morehead City will continue to enforce the state building code
requirements that relate to wind -resistant construction standards.
Poles Morehead City will continue to participate in the National
Flood Insurance Program and to enforce the flood damage prevention ordinance.
Policy 3: Morehead City will avoid zoning areas susceptible to storm surge for
higher density residential uses and intensive nonresidential uses.
Policy 4:
County and other
training.
Morehead City will continue to support and cooperate with Carteret
local units of government in emergency management planning and
3.000 Policy Statements —May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-26

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Policies to discourage development, particularly high -density or large structures in the
most hazardous areas include the following previously outlined policies:
1 • Section 3.211, Policy 1. The town will continue to enforce the Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance which requires new construction to be elevated more than
' one foot above the established 100-year flood elevation.
• Section 3.410, Policy 3. The town will promote the continued low -density
' residential development character of areas located on the fringes of the
extraterritorial jurisdiction and in locations adjacent to identified fragile areas.
' • Section 3.420, Policy 2. Current residential densities will be maintained in order
to preserve the overall low -density character of Morehead City's residential
sector.
' • Section 3.420, Policy 4. High-rise residential development will be encouraged
only where emergency services can be adequately provided.
The town's policy concerning the public acquisition of land in the most hazardous areas
is not to acquire such lands.
1 Morehead City adopted the Hurricane Evacuation Plan, prepared for Carteret County
by the Carteret County Office of Emergency Management, in July 1988. The Evacuation Plan
' provides evacuation guidance to governmental officials and emergency service organizations
and assigns specific responsibilities for implementing the plan in the event of a hurricane. The
plan includes provisions for the organization of a decision making control group, development
' of a warning and alerting systems, delineation of evacuation routes, identification of emergency
shelter locations, and development of re-entry procedures. The Hurricane Evacuation Plan can
be reviewed at the Carteret County Emergency Management Office in Beaufort or at the
' Morehead City Department of Planning. The town will continue to support the Hurricane
Evacuation Plan by providing assistance and participation as required by the plan. Morehead
City also supports the continuation of hurricane awareness programs.
' 3.700 Proposed Implementation Methods
' In order to implement the previously outlined policies, the Morehead City Town
Council and Planning Board will utilize the policy statements as one of the bases for decision -
making when land development requests are made. Policy statements will be taken into
' consideration when reviewing rezonings, zoning text amendments, special use permits, and
subdivision plats. The Morehead City Board of Adjustment will also review policies outlined
in this plan prior to making decisions on variances and special uses.
' Morehead City will continue to administer and enforce its land use regulatory tools
particularly the Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, and Flood Damage Prevention
' Ordinance. The town will review the current regulatory tools to eliminate inconsistencies
which may exist between the tools and the policies outlined in this plan. Specifically, Zoning
Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations amendments which will be investigated in order to
' implement the policy statements involving the following topics:
3.000 Policy Statements —May 28, 1999
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stormwater and -drainage plan preparation.
• provision of soils data.
• coordination of development in potential freshwater wetlands areas with the US
Army Corps of Engineers.
• landscaping, buffering, and curb cuts along the US 70 corridor.
• parking in the downtown area.
• residential uses in the downtown area.
In addition, the town will review its current water and sewer extension policies for
inconsistencies and to ensure the implementation of the adopted land use policies.
3.800 Intergovernmental Coordination and Implementation
In developing the update to it's land use plan, the Town of Morehead City, in
conjunction with Carteret County and all of the municipalities within the county, held an
intergovernmental coordination meeting in August 1996 to identify land use and development
issues of mutual concern. The meeting was held to ensure that land use issues and concerns of
adjoining planning jurisdictions were discussed. Regional issues and concerns identified by the
Town of Morehead City which were discussed at the meeting included the following:
(1) Expansion of municipal ETJ areas.
(2) Planning and zoning jurisdiction of Radio Island.
(3) Annexation agreements with the Towns of Newport and Beaufort.
(4) Siltation problems on the Newport River.
(5) Industrial park development.
(6) Water and sewer extensions and agreements.
(7) Coordination of comprehensive stormwater management practices and
policies with adjoining local governments.
(8) Regional solutions to wastewater disposal needs.
Other joint meetings to discuss development issues of regional significance include the
North Carolina Municipalities meeting held in Emerald Isle in November 1996, meetings of the
Carteret County Interlocal Agency (consisting of nine Carteret County municipalities) to assess
long-term wastewater management alternatives, and meetings of the Regional Wastewater Task
Force which has been evaluating long-term options for wastewater treatment in Carteret,
Craven, Onslow, and Pamlico Counties.
3.000 Policy Statements May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 3-29

4.000 Land Classification
System

4.000 LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
' The land classification system was developed as a means of assisting in the implementation of the
land development policies. The land classification system is intended to be supported and complemented
by zoning, subdivision regulations, and other land management tools. The land classification system is
' not a regulatory mechanism but is, rather, a tool to help implement land development policies.
The land classification system provides a framework to be used by the town to identify the future
' use of land. The designation of land classes allows the town to illustrate its policy statements as to where
and to what density it wants growth to occur, and where it wants to conserve natural and cultural
resources by guiding growth.
' 4.100 Land Classifications
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The CAMA regulations delineate seven land classes: developed, urban transition, limited
transition, community, rural, rural with services, and conservation. In applying the land
classification system, the town has placed particular attention on how, where, and when land
development of certain types and intensity will be encouraged or discouraged.
4.110 Developed Classification. The purpose of the developed land classification is to
provide for continued intensive development and redevelopment of existing towns and
their urban environs. Urban land uses and higher intensity uses, which presently require
the traditional urban services, should be classified as developed. Areas included in the
developed classification are currently urban in character, have minimal undeveloped land
remaining, and have in place or are scheduled to have in place municipal or public
services. Urban in character includes mixed land uses such as residential, commercial,
industrial, institutional, and other uses at high to moderate densities. Services include
water, sewer, recreational facilities, streets, and police and fire protection. Areas
developed for predominantly residential purposes meet the intent of this classification if
they exhibit:
(i) a density of 3 or more dwellings per acre; or
(ii) a majority of lots of 15,000 square feet or less which are provided or
scheduled to be provided with the traditional urban services; and/or
(ill) permanent population densities are high and seasonal population may
swell significantly.
4.120 Urban Transition Classification. The purpose of the urban transition
classification is to provide for future intensive urban development on lands that are
suitable for development and that will be provided with the necessary urban services to
support intensive urban development.
Included in the urban transition classification are areas presently being developed
for urban purposes or areas which will be developed in the next five to ten years. These
areas are in an urban "transition" state of development, going from lower intensity uses to
higher intensity uses and as such will eventually require urban services. Examples of
areas meeting the intent of this classification are lands included within municipal
extraterritorial planning boundaries and areas being considered for annexation. Areas
4.000 land Classification System —May 18, 1999
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classified as urban transition will provide lands for intensive urban growth when lands in
the developed classification are not available. The urban transition classification includes
mixed land uses such as residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and other uses at
or approaching high to moderate densities. Areas that are predominantly residential meet
the intent of this classification if:
(i) they are approaching three dwelling units per acre, or
(ii) a majority of the lots are 15,000 square feet or less and will be provided
with essential urban services to support this high density development, or
(iii) are contiguous to existing developed municipal areas.
4.130 Limited Transition Classification. The purpose of the limited transition
classification is to provide for development in areas that have some services but are
suitable for lower densities than those associated with the urban transition classification
and/or are geographically remote from existing towns.
Areas meeting the intent of this classification will experience increased
development during the planning period and will be in a state of development
necessitating some municipal -type services. These areas are of modest densities and are
often suitable for the provision of closed water systems rather than individual wells. The
limited transition classification is intended for predominantly residential development with
a density of three units per acre or less, or the majority of lots are 15,000 square feet or
greater. Clustering or development associated with planned unit developments may be
appropriate in the limited transition class.
4.140 Community Classification. The purpose of this classification is to provide
clustered, mixed land uses at low densities to help meet the housing, shopping, and
employment and other needs in rural areas. Since this classification is usually associated
with "crossroads development" in counties, it has been determined not to be applicable to
the Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction.
4.150 Rural Classtfcation. The rural classification is intended to provide for
agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction, and other allied uses traditionally associated with
an agrarian region as well as uses that, due to their hazardous or noxious nature, should
be located in a relatively isolated and undeveloped area. Very low density dispersed
residential uses on large lots with on -site water and sewer are consistent with the intent of
this classification. Because there are no large agricultural and/or forestry areas within the
Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction, the rural classification has been determined not to
be applicable.
4.160 Rural with Services Classification. The rural services classification is intended
to provide for very low density land uses including residential use where limited water
services are provided in order to avert an existing or projected health problem. Because
this classification is concerned with predominantly agrarian areas with known or
anticipated water quality problems, it has been determined not to be applicable to the
Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction.
4.000 Land Classification System —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 4-2

1
4.170 Conservation Classification. The purpose of the conservation classification is to
provide for the effective long-term management and protection of significant, limited, or
irreplaceable areas.
Areas meeting the intent of this classification include Areas of Environmental
Concern (AECs) as defined by CAMA and other similar environmentally sensitive lands.
The conservation classification is intended to be applied to areas that, because of their
unique, productive, limited, cultural, or natural features, should be either not developed
' at all (preserved), or if developed, done so in an extremely limited fashion. Urban
services, public or private, should not be provided in areas classified as conservation as a
catalyst to stimulate intense development. It is intended that limited, on -site services will
adequately support any restricted development within this classification. While AEC
standards will occasionally permit urban -type development and limited services on a lot -
by -lot basis within various AECs, it should be noted that this is the exception rather than
' the rule. The primary intent of the conservation classification is to provide protection for
the resources included therein.
' 4.200 Uses Included In Each Classification
The following general land uses are allowed within the land classifications applicable to
' the Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction:
4.210 Developed Classification. Mixed land uses (residential, commercial, industrial,
' and institutional) are included in the developed classification. Residential densities
generally range from a maximum of two to eight dwelling units per acre. Higher
densities, up to a maximum of 16 units per acre, are permitted within planned
' development zoning districts. Residential uses include single-family detached and
attached dwellings, multi -family structures, congregate facilities, and manufactured home
parks. Commercial land uses include a wide variety of retail, service, and office and
' professional uses. Major shopping facilities, concentrated clusters of free-standing retail
establishments, and commercial marine establishments are included. Industrial land uses
include port -related as well as traditional manufacturing establishments. Institutional land
' uses include intensive uses such as the hospital and community college as well as
governmental, semi-public, and private institutional land uses.
4.220 Urban Transition Classification. Land uses in this classification may include
mixed land uses but they are not as intensively developed as in the previous classification.
The areas classified as urban transition in the Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction are
predominantly residential with scattered, low -intensity commercial and institutional land
uses. Residential uses include a greater preponderance of single-family detached
dwellings than in the developed classification. Residential densities are also lower than in
' the developed classification and range from a maximum of two to three dwellings per
acre.
' The urban transition classification is subdivided to include one subclass —urban
transition/port. This subclass has been created to distinguish Annex Island from the other
areas designated as urban transition. It is anticipated that a portion of Annex Island,
' which is currently owned by the NC Ports Authority, will be used for port -related activity
4.000 Land Classification System —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 4-3

and, thus,Ts a potential growth area for the port facility.- Services which may be extended
to Annex Island will be dependent upon the ultimate use of the island. Portions of the
island will not be suitable for intensive development because of the presence of coastal
wetlands and flood hazard areas.
4.230 Limited Transition Classification. Residential and institutional land uses are
included in the limited transition classification. Residential densities are very low for
single-family detached dwellings which are the predominant land use. A maximum of 2
units per acre is allowed in the majority of the classification. However, a higher density
may be allowed in planned developments in which adequate services are provided.
Sugarloaf Island is included in this classification since it is an area that contains some
physical limitations but is an area in which some controlled development may be
anticipated.
The Limited Transition Classification is necessary because the areas so classified
are expected to experience increased development demand. Given the environmentally -
sensitive nature of portions of the areas, some municipal services will be necessary to
ensure that their fragile nature is protected and water quality is maintained. Providing for
limited municipal services and planned land development controls, development can occur
but it will less intensive than that expected in Urban Transition -classified areas.
4.240 Conservation Classification. The conservation classification includes identified
AECs (coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, public trust waters, estuarine shoreline), some
of the sound and estuarine system islands (Phillips Island and the Newport Marshes), the
Nature Conservancy tract located in the northwest corner of the planning region as well
as adjacent wetland areas east of this tract, and concentrated areas of freshwater or "404"
wetlands protected by the Clean Water Act. While smaller, isolated areas of freshwater
wetlands are also protected by the Clean Water Act, it is not the town's intent to classify
such areas as conservation in Figure 11, Land Classification Map. The precise location
of these isolated areas of freshwater wetlands must be determined by field investigation.
Consequently, they are not delineated on the Land Classification Map and are not
classified as conservation. No development other than those uses which require water
access and cannot function elsewhere is allowed in coastal wetlands and estuarine and
public trust waters. The town concurs with CAMA AEC Standards for properties located
in the conservation classification and with the US Army Corps of Engineers regulations
for "404" wetlands.
Development within the estuarine shoreline must be in accordance with CAMA
regulations and guidelines and the applicable Morehead City Zoning Ordinance
provisions. Permits must be obtained from the US Army Corps of Engineers prior to
disturbing any freshwater wetlands. Most of the land areas classified as conservation are
zoned as floodplains and permissible land uses are, therefore, restricted to those which
create no significant adverse impact on base flood levels.
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4.000 Land Classification System —May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update 4-4

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4.300 Land Classification Map
The land classification map (see Figure 11) includes four land classifications: (i)
developed; (ii) urban transition (including an urban transition/port subclass); (iu) limited
transition; and (iv) conservation. The land classification map graphically illustrates the locations
of the various classifications. Because of the scale of the land classification map, the conservation
classifications can not be mapped with any degree of accuracy. Precise locations for some areas
classified as conservation must be determined by field investigation by the appropriate permitting
agency. The general locations of the various land classifications are described below.
4.310 Developed Classification. The developed classification generally includes all of
the land within the current corporate limits of the Town of Morehead City, with the
exception of Annex Island, as well as the US Highway 70 and NC Highway 24 corridors
located west and southwest of the city limits.. The developed area currently includes a
wide variety of residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional zoning districts.
Municipal services are currently provided to the overwhelming majority of the developed
area.
4.320 Urban Transition Classification. This classification includes the predominantly
residential areas (both existing and emerging) located on the fringes of the current
Morehead City corporate limits. The urban transition area generally extends from the
western extraterritorial jurisdiction boundary at Hull Swamp eastward to the Crab Point
area. The urban transidon/port subclass includes Annex Island which is anticipated to be
used, in part, for port -related activity. Annex Island is currently zoned for industrial use
and is being used as a dredge spoil site. The majority of the area classified as urban
transition is currently zoned R-20, R-15M, and R-15 SM. Portions of the urban transition
area are potential annexation areas. Municipal services are expected to ultimately be
extended into such areas.
4.330 Limited Transition Classification. The limited transition classification includes
the Morehead City Country Club and Golf Course area, the majority of the eastern
portion of the peninsula between Calico Creek and Dill's Creek, Sugarloaf Island, and the
extreme westernmost portion of the town's ETJ area located west of McCabe Road.
Currently, these areas are primarily zoned R-20, R-15M, FP, and PD.
4.340 Conservation Classification. This classification includes the 520-acre Nature
Conservancy tract located in the northwest corner of the planning region as well as
adjacent wetland areas east of this tract, Phillips Island, the Newport Marshes, and AECs
delineated in Section 4.240. Currently, all of these areas are zoned FP. Because of the
map scale, the conservation classification can not be accurately mapped. The precise
location of coastal wetlands, freshwater wetlands, and the estuarine shoreline must be
determined by field investigation. The town concurs with CAMA AEC standards for
properties located in the conservation classification and with the US Army Corps of
Engineers regulations for "404" wetlands.
4.000 Land Class cation System —May 28, 1999
' Morehead City C IMA Land Use Plan Update 4-5

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' 4.400 Relationship of Policy Statements and Land Classifications
' The following sections discuss how the land use policy statements contained in Section
3.000 apply to each of the classifications delineated on the land classification map (Figure 11).
The Town of Morehead City does not propose to impose any additional local requirements for
' Areas of Environmental Concern which are more restrictive than the CAMA minimum use
standards. The town concurs with the minimum 7H Use Standards administered by the Division
of Coastal Management.
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4.410 Developed Classification. Policy statements have been formulated which
encourage a variety of land uses to meet the housing, employment, shopping, recreation,
and cultural needs of the citizens of the Morehead City Planning Jurisdiction. Policy
statements have also been developed which encourage land development that has or can
readily obtain adequate support infrastructure. Higher residential densities (6 to 16
dwelling units per acre) and light industrial uses are promoted in areas with sufficient
water and sewer service and an adequate street system. Multi -family development is
promoted in areas currently zoned R-5, PD, and RMF. Redevelopment and restoration
of the CBD, waterfront, and older, established residential neighborhoods are encouraged.
Tourist support businesses and services are encouraged in the existing CBD and along
major highway corridors. Improvements to the port facility are supported.
4.420 Transition Classifications. Policy statements have been developed which apply
to the urban transition and limited transition classifications. These policies address the
provision of urban services and the density of development. Intensive urban development
is discouraged in outlying areas that do not have adequate utility services. Low -density
residential uses are promoted as are the current maximum densities of approximately 2 to
3 dwelling units per acre. New development is encouraged to locate within existing town
water and sewer service areas. Requests for water and sewer services in areas outside of
the current town limits will be required to petition for voluntary annexation. Policy
statements have been developed which support the continued operation and expansion of
the port facility.
4.430 Conservation Classification. Policy statements which apply to areas within the
conservation classification are concerned with the appropriate use and management of
AECs and other fragile areas and the protection of water quality. Policy statements have
been developed which give priority to the conservation of coastal wetlands. Those uses
which require water access and cannot function elsewhere are the only uses which are
allowed in coastal wetlands and estuarine waters. Phillips Island and the Newport
Marshes are identified as fragile areas. Development within the estuarine shoreline is
allowed only if it has no significant adverse impact on estuarine resources and water
quality and is consistent with the CAMA 7H Use Standards. Off -road vehicles are
prohibited on sound and estuarine system islands. Major concentrations of freshwater
wetlands have been designated as conservation areas on the land classification map. The
town concurs with the "404" wetlands permitting regulations administered by the US
Army Corps of Engineers.
4.000 Land Classification System —May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAM4 Land Use Plan Update 4-7

ai

APPENDIX A
INDEX OF DATA SOURCES
' During the preparation of this land use plan update, a wide variety of data sources were utilized.
The general data sources are outlined below as are specific reference materials.
' GENERAL DATA SOURCES
Town of Morehead City Department of Parks and Recreation.
Town of Morehead City Department of Public Works.
Town of Morehead City Fire Department.
' Town of Morehead City Inspections Department.
Town of Morehead City Planning Department.
Town of Morehead City Police Department.
' Town of Morehead City EMS/Rescue Squad.
Town of Morehead City Water and Sewer Utility Department.
Carteret County Economic Development Council.
Carteret County Office of Emergency Management.
Carteret County Planning Department.
Carteret County Schools.
N.C. Department of Commerce, Travel and Tourism Division.
N.C. Department of Environmental Health and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal Management.
N.C. Department of Environmental Health and Natural Resources, Division of Marine Fisheries.
' N.C. Department of Environmental Health and Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Recreation.
N.C. Department of Environmental Health and Natural Resources, Division of Soil and Water
Conservation.
' N.C. Office of State Planning.
N.C. State Ports Authority.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service.
' U.S. Department of Agriculture, Farmers Home Administration.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Services.
U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census.
1
REFERENCE MATERIALS
' "Albemarle -Pamlico Estuarine System, Preliminary Technical Analysis of the Status and Trends," N.C.
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources, December 1989.
' "Authorized Construction By Building Permit," Bureau of Census, Construction and Statistics Division,
Building Permits Branch, 1991-1994.
' "Carteret County Hurricane Evacuation Plan", Carteret County Office of Emergency Management,
July 1988.
Appendix A May28, 1999
' Morehead City LAMA Land Use Plan Update A4

I
"Census of Population, Housing, Retail Trade, Service Industries, and Wholesale Trade," U.S.
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Census, 1960-1990.
' "Characterization of Baseline Demographic Trends In The Year -Round and Recreational Population In
The Albemarle -Pamlico Estuarine Study Area," Paul D. Tschetter, East Carolina University,
Greenville, NC, May 1989.
"Draft White Oak River Basinwide Water Quality Management Plan," NC Division of Water Quality,
Water Quality Section, July 1996.
"Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism on North Carolina, N.C. Department of Commerce,
Division of Travel and Tourism, 1995.
' "Flood Insurance Study, Town of Morehead City, N.C.," Federal Emergency Management Agency,
April 1983.
' Land Use Planning Information Packet, Carteret County, N.C. Division of Coastal Management, 1995.
"Morehead City -Beaufort Thoroughfare Plan Study Report, N.C. Department of Transportation,
Division of Highways, Statewide Planning Branch, December 1991.
"Morehead City Land Use Plan Update, The Wooten Company, 1991.
' "North Carolina Municipal Population, 1996," N.C. Office of State Planning, 1997.
' "North Carolina Population Projections, N.C. Office of State Planning, 1995.
North Carolina State Profile, February 1995, Woods and Poole Economics, Washington, DC.
Soils Survey of Carteret County, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service,
September 1987.
' "Storm Hazard Mitigation Plan and Post Disaster Reconstruction Plan," George Eichler & Associates
and Satilla Planning, Inc., June 1984.
' Subdivision Regulations, Town of Morehead City, N.C.
"The Effects of Global Warming and Sea -Level Rise on Coastal North Carolina," R. Paul Wilms,
Carolina Planning, Fall 1990.
Transportation Improvement Program, N.C. Department of Transportation.
Zoning Ordinance, Town of Morehead City, N.C.
Appendix A May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-2

m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m =
APPENDIX B
POPULATION SIZE AND GROWTH RATES
MOREHEAD CITY, CARTERET COUNTY, AND THE STATE
1910-1990
Po
A
1910 1920
1930
1940 1950
1960
1970
1980
1990
Morehead City 2,039
2,958
3,483
3,695 5,144
5,583
5,233
4,359
6,046
Carteret County 13,776
15,384
16,900
18,248 23,059
27,438
31,603
41,092
52,553
North Carolina 2,206,287 2,559,123 3,170,276 3,571,623 4,061,929 4,556,155 5,084,411 5,880,095 6,632,448
7
T
1910-19 - 20 1920-1930 1930-1940 1940-1950 1950-1960 1960-1970 1970-1986-- 1980-1990
Morehead City
45.1%
17.7%
6.1%
39.2%
8.5%
-6.3%
-16.7%
38.7%
Carteret County
11.7%
9.9%
8.2%
26.1%
19.0%
15.2%
30.0%
27.9%
North Carolina
16.0%
23.9%
12.7%
13.7%
12.2%
11.6%
15.6%
12.8%
Sources: U.S. Census of Population, 1920-1990
Appendix B—May 28,1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-3

APPENDIX C
COMPARISON OF MOREHEAD CITY'S POPULATION GROWTH RATE
WITH SELECTED COASTAL MUNICIPALITIES
Jacksonville
Onslow
18,259
30,398
75,527
64.5%
148.5%
Morehead City
Carteret
4,359
6,046
7,594
38.7%
25.6%
New Bern
Craven
14,557
17,363
21,799
19.3%
25.5%
Elizabeth City
Pasquotank
14,004
14,292
16,954
2.1 %
18.6%
Wilmington
New Hanover
44,000
55,530
62,968
26.2%
13.4%
Southport
Brunswick
2,824
2,369
2,562
-16.1 %
8.1 %
Beaufort
Carteret
3,826
3,808
4,032
-0.5%
5.9%
Hertford
Perquimans
1,941
2,244
2,311
15.6%
3.0%
Edenton
Chowan
5,357
5,268
5,353
-1.7%
1.6%
Washington
Beaufort
8,418
9,160
9,298
8.8%
1.5%
Sources: North Carolina Municipal Population, 1996.
Office of State Planning, 1996.
U.S. Census, 1980 and 1990.
Appendix C—May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-4

II
�J
II
II
II
II
II
I
I
I
J
I
I
I
I
I
I
APPENDIX D
COMPARISON OF MOREHEAD CITY'S POPULATION GROWTH RATE
WITH SELECTED MUNICIPALITIES IN THE REGION
Jacksonville
Onslow
18,259
30,398
75,527
64.5 %
148.5 %
Emerald Isle
Carteret
865
2,434
3,068
181.4%
26.0%
Morehead City
Carteret
4,359
6,046
7,594
38.7%
25.6%
New Bern
Craven
14,557
17,363
21,799
19.3%
25.5%
Richlands
Onslow
825
996
1,242
20.7%
24.7%
Swansboro
Onslow
976
1,165
1,419
19.4%
21.8%
Indian Beach
Carteret
54
153
184
183.3 %
20.3 %
Newport
Carteret
1,883
2,516
2,966
33.6%
17.9%
Pine Knoll Shores
Carteret
646
1,360
1,586
110.5%
16.6%
Atlantic Beach
Carteret
941
1,938
2,255
106.0%
16.4%
Cape Carteret
Carteret
944
1,013
1,173
7.3%
15.8%
Oriental
Pamlico
536
786
868
46.6%
10.4%
Cedar Point
Carteret
479
628
691
31.1%
10.0%
Beaufort
Carteret
3,826
3,808
4,032
-0.5%
5.9%
Havelock
Craven
17,718
20,300
21,335
14.5 %
5.1 %
Maysville
Jones
877
892
935
1.7%
4.8%
Bayboro
Pamlico
759
733
758
-3.4%
3.4%
Alliance
Pamlico
616
681
673
10.5%
-1.2%
Trenton
Jones
294
230
214
-21.8%
-7.0%
Sources: U.S. Census, 1980 and 1990.
North Carolina Municipal Population, 1996; Office of State Planning, 1997.
Appendix D-May 18, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-5

L
1
APPENDIX E
1 COMPONENTS OF POPULATION CHANGE
CARTERET COUNTY AND NORTH CAROLINA
1980 TO 1990
' Carteret County �
North Caro
,
Population Change
11,461
752,353
Births
6,983
901,708
Deaths
4,345
527,545
1
Natural Increase
2,638
374,163
Net Migration
8,823
378,190
'
Migration Rate'
21.5%
6.4%
' Natural increase is the difference between total births and total deaths. Net migration is the difference
between total population change and natural increase. Migration rate is the difference between in -migration
and out -migration expressed as a percentage of the base year total population. It is calculated by dividing
natural increase by the base year total population.
COMPONENTS OF POPULATION GROWTH
' SELECTED COUNTIES IN THE REGION
1980-2010
Population
Natural
Net.
Population,—
Natural
Net ,
Population'
Natural
; Net
t
;Growth.
- Increase.
Migration.
. Growth
.Inciease
Migration
Growth '.Increas
e
'hfigratioz
County„„
u
...._...
_.v,y
-.%.
_
...._. `�. 4
Beaufort
4.8
2.9
1.9
4.7
2.1
2.6
2.0
0.0
2.0
'
Carteret
27.9
6.4
21.5
22.2
2.6
19.6
15.7
0.4
15.3
Craven
14.9
14.5
0.4
15.1
11.4
3.7
12.0
8.7
3.3
Onslow
32.9
23.8
9.1
13.2
18.3
-5.0
17.1
17.2
-0.2
Pamlico
9.3
2.4
7.0
8.7
-0.3
9.0
5.3
-2.5
7.8
'
NC
12.8
6.4
6.4
12.3
6.0
6.3
8.4
3.9
4.5
Note: Natural increase percentage is the natural increase figure divided by the base year population.
' Source: N.C. Population Projections, Office of State Planning, 1995.
Appendix E-May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update
A-6

APPENDIX F
POPULATION DENSITY
MOREHEAD CITY AND SELECTED MUNICIPALITIES IN THE REGION
1960-1990
Persons Per Square Mtle
777
Municipality
1960
1970
1980
1990 ,
Morehead City
3,722
3,489
2,180
2,325
Jacksonville
4,352
3,815
2,159
2,308
Beaufort
5,844
3,062
1,594
2,240
New Bern
6,287
3,858
2,510
1,702
Havelock
1,217
1,506
979
1,360
Median Density of all 4,284 3,146 1,884 1,987
Selected Municipalities
Carteret County 52 59 78 99
North Carolina 93 104 120 136
PROJECTED POPULATION DENSITY
1990-2010
1990 2000 20101f
Carteret County 99 121 140
North Carolina 136 153 166
Sources: North Carolina State Government Statistical Abstract,
North Carolina State Data Center, 1984.
North Carolina Office of State Planning.
Appendix F—May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-7

APPENDIX G
AGE DISTRIBUTION
1990
,, `. �Mor head CitsCarteret
C uo ntyNortfi Carotina9
Age Category
Number % of Total
% of Total
% of Total
Under 18 Years
1,349
22.3%
22.4%
24.2%
School Age
18-24 Years
512
8.5 %
9.3 %
11.8 %
College Age
25-64 Years
2,930
48.5%
54.0%
51.9%
Working Age
65+Years
1,255
20.7%
14.3%
12.1%
Retirement Age
Totals 6,046 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
Source: U.S. Census of Population, 1990.
Appendix G—May 28, 1999
Morehead City LAMA Land Use Plan Update A-8

M M M M M M M M M M M M! M M M M M !•
APPENDIX G (continued)
HISTORICAL AND PROJECTED AGE DISTRIBUTION
1990-2010
1990<
2000
_
2010_
Age Category
Carteret
North
Carteret
North
Carteret
North
County
Carolina
County
Carolina
County
Carolina
Under 18 Years
22.4 %
24.2 %
20.5 %
24.3 %
18.4 %
23.1 %
School Age
18-24 Years
9.3%
11.8%
8.4%
9.9%
8.2%
10.4%
College Age
25-64 Years
54.0 %
51.9 %
54.7 %
52.9 %
55.0 %
52.5 %
Working Age
65+ Years
14.3%
12.1%
16.4%
12.9%
18.4%
14.0%
Retirement Age
Totals
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
100.0%
Source: North Carolina Projections, Office of State Planning, 1995.
Appendix Cr-May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-9

APPENDIX H
MEDIAN AGE OF THE POPULATION
1970-2010
t
1970
Median Age 1n Years
Historical �
1980 1990
' Pro ected r.
2000 2010
Morehead City
30.5
37.8
36.3
N/A
N/A
Carteret County
28.3
31.4
35.8
39.8
43.9
North Carolina
26.5
29.6
33.0
36.2
38.5
United States
28.0
30.0
32.8
35.7
37.5
Sources: U.S. Census of Population, 1970-1990.
Woods and Poole Economics, North Carolina State Profile, 1995.
N.C. Population Projections, N.C. Office of State Planning, 1995.
Appendix H—May 28, 1999
Morehead City C1MA Land Use Plan Update A-10

= = M M M M M M M = M M > M = = = = =
APPENDIX I
RACIAL COMPOSITION OF THE POPULATION
1990
Morehead City
4,877
80.7%
1,006
17.6%
103
1.7%
Carteret County
47,445
90.3%
4,385
8.3%
726
1.4%
North Carolina
5,008,491
75.5%
1,456,323
22.0%
163,823
2.5%
Carteret County
North Carolina
6,046
100%
52,556
100%
6,628,637
100%
RACIAL COMPOSITION TRENDS
1970-2010
=7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
White . Non -White
White �. Non -White.
White,:' -, Non -White
White:.Non-V .Non -White
t -,, on -Whit
White e
88.6% 11.4%
89.7% 10.3%
90.3% 9.7%
92.0% 8.0%
91.2% 8.8%
76.8% 23.2%
76.6% 23.4%
75.5% 24.5%
77.8% 22.2%
75.1% 24.9%
Sources: U.S. Census of Population, 1970-1990.
NC Population Projections, NC Office of State Planning, 1995.
Woods and Poole Economics, North Carolina State Profile, 1995.
Appendix 1--May 28, 1999
Morehead City 0UM Land Use Plan Update A-11

APPENDIX J
HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS
General Household Characteristics
1990
Total Housing Units
Occupied Housing Units
% Occupied
No. Owner -Occupied
No. Renter -Occupied
% Owner -Occupied
% Renter Occupied
% W/1.01 or More Persons Per Room
Median Value, Owner -Occupied Units
�Gartrteret ` �` N h
.}Morehead
Counts
Carolina.,.
3,206
34,576
2,818,193
2,675
21,238
2,517,026
83.4%
61.4%
89.3%
1,479
15,761
1,711,817
1,196
5,477
805,209
55.3%
74.2%
68.0%
44.7%
25.8%
32.0%
2.2%
2.0%
2.8%
$56,600
$73,100
$65,800
Total Vacant Units
531
13,338
301,167
For Seasonal, Recreational Use
277
10,138
98,714
Homeowner Vacancy Rate
3.0 %
3.4 %
1.8 %
Rental Vacancy Rate
9.3 %
23.9 %
9.2 %
Household Population
(Persons Per Occupied Dwelling)
1970 " 891 a 1990T'
Morehead City 2.99 2.44 2.15
Carteret County 3.13 2.66 2.43
North Carolina 3.24 2.78 2.54
Sources: U.S. Census of Housing, 1970-1990
Appendix ✓—May18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-11

Carteret County
North Carolina
United States
'In thousands.
APPENDIX J (continued)
HOUSEHOLD PROJECTIONS
��P 1980
1490
2002
2010
j Total' Persons Per
z Torah Persons Per
Total' Persons Per
t , Torah`. Persons Pe
Households_ Households
ousehowd Households
. o_.
_Households Household
Households Household,
15.20 2.67
21.23 2.43
25.28 2.41
29.26 2.40
2,054.64 2.78
2,517.02 2.54
2,917.23 2.53
3,292.42 2.51
80,836.01 2.74
92,215.27 2.63
101,725.76 2.61
110,450.15 2.60
Source: Woods & Poole Economics, North Carolina State Profile, 1995.
Appendix .-May28, 1999)
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-13

APPENDIX K
EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY GROUP
PERSONS 16 YEARS AND OLDER
MOREHEAD CITY, NC
1990
Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries
Mining
Construction
Manufacturing
TCPU'
Wholesale/Retail Trade
FIRV
Services
Public Administration
TOTAL
'Transportation, Communication and Public Utilities
=Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate
Source: U.S. Census of Population, 1990
' Number
, `. Per ent" '
77
3.0%
7
0.3 %
183
7.2 %
226
8.9 %
146
5.7 %
797
31.2%
190
7.5 %
726
28.5 %
197
7.7 %
2,550 100 %
Appendix K—May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAAM Land Use Plan Update A-14

Appendix K
Employment By Industry Group
Carteret County
(continued)
970 --
1980 ��
2000 ,
2010 ,
;1990�
TOTAL EMPLOYMENT (000's)
10.29
16.66
24.12
27.68
30.97
Agriculture
9.9%
10.6%
6.3%
6.0%
5.4%
Mining
0.0%
0.1%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Construction
5.5%
5.6%
6.3%
7.4%
7.4%
Manufacturing
16.0%
13.6%
7.5%
6.0%
5.2%
TCPU'
5.9%
3.5%
3.4%
3.5%
3.3%
Wholesale/Retail Trade
22.6%
25.3%
29.7%
31.9%
35.4%
FIRE2
2.7%
4.9%
7.5%
7.0%
7.4%
Services
20.2%
19.1%
23.1%
21.2%
19.6%
Government
17.2%
1 17.3%
16.2
17.0%
1 16.3%
TOTALS
100.0%
100.0%
100,00/0
100.0%
100.0%
'Transportation, Communication & Public Utilities.
'Finance, Insurance & Real Estate.
Sources: U.S. Census of Population
Woods and Poole Economics, North Carolina State Profile, 1995.
Appendix K May 18,1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-1 S

APPENDIX L
MAJOR MANUFACTURING EMPLOYERS
MOREHEAD CITY AREA
1996
Atlantic Veneer Corporation
Bally Refrigerated Boxes
Creative Outlet
Beaufort Fisheries
Carteret Publishing Company
Parker Marine Enterprises, Inc.
Trumbell Asphalt
Morehead Block & Tile Company
Veneer plywood
500
Refrigeration and cooling units
200
Hospital uniforms, sportswear
80
Fish meal, fish oil
70
Newspaper publishing
60
Fiberglass boats
50
Paving mixtures and blocks
25
Concrete blocks
20
Source: Carteret County Economic Development Council.
Appendix L—May 18, 1999
Morehead City LAMA Land Use Plan Update A-16

APPENDIX M
COMMUTING PATTERNS
CARTERET COUNTY
1990
OUT -COMMUTERS'
IN-COMMUTERS2
No.
%
No.
%
Craven County
4,237
62.1 %
Craven County
1,268
45.5 %
Onslow County
1,303'
19.1%
Onslow County
750
26.9%
Wake County
223
3.3%
Lenoir County
75
2.7%
Beaufort County
71
1.0%
Pitt County
68
2.4%
Durham County
67
1.0%
Pamlico County
45
1.6%
Pitt County
65
0.9%
New Hanover County
44
1.6%
Jones County
55
0.8 %
Jones County
31
1.1 %
All Other Destinations (76)
807
11.8%
All Other Destinations (50)
504
18.2%
TOTAL
6,828
100.0%
TOTAL
2,785
100.0%
PERCENT OF
27.3 %
---
PERCENT OF .
13.3 %
---
EMPLOYED RESIDENTS
EMPLOYED PERSONS
WHO ARE OUT-
WHO ARE IN -
COMMUTERS
COMMUTERS
'Persons traveling from Carteret County to places of employment located outside of Carteret County.
'Persons traveling to jobs located in Carteret County from areas located outside of Carteret County.
Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing.
Appendix M—May18, 1999
Morehead City LAMA Land Use Plan Update A-17

APPENDIX N
EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY GROUP'
CARTERET COUNTY
1970,
1980.
1996 'j,
n
77
077
TOTAL EMPLOYMENT (000's)
10.29
16.66
24.12
27.68
30.97
Agriculture
9.9%
10.6%
6.3%
6.0%
5.4%
Mining
0.0%
0.1%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Construction
5.5%
5.6%
6.3%
7.4%
7.4%
Manufacturing
16.0%
13.6%
7.5%
6.0%
5.2%
TCPU'
5.9%
3.5%
3.4%
3.5%
3.3%
Wholesale/Retail Trade
22.6%
25.3%
29.7%
31.9%
35.4%
FIRE
2.7%
4.9%
7.5%
7.0%
7.4%
Services
20.2%
19.1%
23.1%
21.2%
19.6%
Government
17.2%
1 17.3%
16.2
17.0%
1 16.3%
TOTALS
100.0%
1 100.0%
100.0%
1 100.0%
1 100.0%
'Transportation, Communication & Public Utilities.
Finance, Insurance & Real Estate.
Sources: U.S. Census of Population
Woods and Poole Economics, North Carolina State Profile, 1995.
Appendix N-May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-18

APPENDIX O
INCOME CHARACTERISTICS
CARTERET COUNTY_
Per Capita Income
(In Current Dollars)
1970
$2,759
$3,228
85.5%
1980
$7,571
$8,002
94.6%
1990
$14,233
$16,275
87.4%
2000
$20,899
$25,068
83.4%
2010
$32,876
$41,611
79.0%
Mean Household Income
(In Current Dollars)
1970
$8,751
$10,612
82.5%
1980
$20,274
$22,392
90.5%
1990
$34,680
$41,695
83.2%
2000
$50,642
$63,877
79.3 %
2010
$79,255
$105,478
75.1%
Source: Woods & Poole Economics, North Carolina State Profile, 1995.
Appendix O—May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-19

II
II
II
II
t
APPENDIX P
RETAIL SALES
MOREHEAD CITY AND CARTERET COUNTY
1992
Total Establishments
Sales ($1,000)
Paid Employees
Bldg. Materials, Hardware, SIC 52
General Merchandise, SIC 53
Food Stores, SIC 54
Automotive Dealers, SIC 55, except 544
Gasoline Service Stations, SIC 554
Apparel & Accessories, SIC 56
Furniture, Home Furnishings, SIC 57
Eating & Drinking Places, SIC 58
Drug Stores, SIC 591
Miscellaneous Retail, SIC 59, except 591
'7 777Morehead
City's
Carteret
Morehead
Percentage of t6
„County w_
Cify
wxsCounty!s To1a1,_LL
551
205
37 %
$441,389
$214,794
49%
4,844
2,291
47%
34
13
38%
15
7
47 %
74
14
19%
39
17
43 %
30
12
40%
54
22
41 %
44
25
57 %
149
53
35%
18
8
44 %
94
34
36%
ISource: 1992 Census of Retail Trade, Bureau of Census
1
Appendix P—May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-10

APPENDIX P
(continued)
Retail Sales
Carteret County
1990-2010
1990
'"2000
2010
P
Pe rcent
Percent
r E 4
Total
P , of ;.ercent
Total'
� of -�
Total;
of ,
, . ,
RETAIL'CATEGORY
,
Sales ' :-
Total
Sales
Total
Salesl
Total {
Building Materials, Hardware, SIC 52
37.11
10.5%
48.94
10.9%
60.86
10.9%
General Merchandise, SIC 53
47.01
13.2%
74.06
16.5%
96.03
17.3%
Food Stores, SIC 54
89.86
25.3 %
95.20
21.2%
107.58
19.3 %
Automobile Dealers, SIC 55
59.70
16.8%
77.56
17.3%
96.42
17.3%
Gasoline Service Stations, SIC 554
18.95
5.3%
20.19
4.5%
24.29
4.4%
Apparel & Accessories, SIC 56
13.37
3.8%
15.62
3.5%
19.25
3.5%
Furniture, Home Furnishings, SIC 57
16.20
4.6%
19.52
4.3%
24.18
4.3%
Eating & Drinking Places, SIC 58
42.88
12.1 %
58.11
13.0
77.96
14.0%
Drug Stores, SIC 591
12.82
3.6%
15.73
3.5%
20.29
3.6%
Miscellaneous Retail Stores, SIC 59
16.95
4.8%
23.69
5.3%
29.82
5.4%
354.85
100.0%
448.62
100.0%
556.68
100.0%
TOTAL RETAIL SALES
'In millions, 1987 dollars.
Source: Woods and Poole Economics, North Carolina State Profile, February 1995.
Appendix P-May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Update A-21

I
APPENDIX Q
SERVICE INDUSTRIES
MOREHEAD CITY AND CARTERET COUNTY
1992
Total Establishments
Receipts ($1,000)
Paid Employees
Hotels/Lodging Places, SIC 70, except 704
Personal Services, SIC 72
Business Services, SIC 73
Automotive Repair, SIC 75
Miscellaneous Repair, SIC 76
Amusement/Recreational, SIC 78, 79, 84
Health Services, SIC 80
Legal Services, SIC 81
Social Services, SIC 83
Engineering/Accounting/Research,SIC 87,except 873
Morehead ity's
Carteret
Morehead
Percentage of the',-,
C
Cityy� o; ..., County's, Total „„ j
386
174
45%
$99,427
$51,083
51%
2,318
1,271
55 %
46
11
24%
53
21
40%
38
22
58 %
32
14
44%
20
5
25 %
47
15
32 %
70
49
70%
24
12
50%
18
9
50%
38
16
42%
Source: 1992 Census of Service Industries, Bureau of Census.
Appendix Q—May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-22

Land Use Category
Residential Acreage
% of Total Residential
Ac.
Commercial Acreage
% of Total
Commercial Ac.
Public/Institutional/
Recreational
Acreage
% of Total
Public/Inst/Rec. Ac.
Industrial Acreage
% of Total Industrial
Ac.
Vacant Acreage
% of Total
Vacant Acreage
Water Acreage
% of Total
Water Acreage
TOTAL
NEIGHBORHOOD
ACREAGE
% of Total Acreage
APPENDIX R
DISTRIBUTION OF
TOTAL ACREAGE BY LAND USE CATEGORY
AND NEIGHBORHOOD
Neighborhood
1 2, 3
v
4 571
6 I, r.
F
li 4
129� 124+ 175
150' 928,
5521
�I
Lj
41%" 3.9%, 5.6% i
4.8% 29.5%;
17.5%,� !'I
73
2' 27,
65:„ 16yyy'_
211
71%;
0.5%G 6 391
H
15.3%� 3 8%;
4.9%! .''
28�
CA
46 84
85 483
7
0.1 %
Ill
t..
10.5%
0.9%
0
2.7%!,
0.0%
0.0%
196''
s' 874I
176
i
I
3.0%E,"13.4%'
2.7%
0,
0
502;
4'
2,301
756
e
4.1%
188%!
6.2%
8
205
6.5%
213
50.0%
15
1.9%
39
17.3%
2,234
34.3 %
0
0.0%
2,706
22.1 %
Appendix R May 28, 1999
Morehead Oty CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-23

Single -Family
1 Unit Detached
1 Unit Attached
Multi -Family
2-4 Units
5-9 Units
10+ Units
Manufactured Home
TOTAL UNITS
Single -Family
Multi -Family
Manufactured Home
TOTAL
APPENDIX S
HOUSING BY STRUCTURE TYPE
MOREHEAD CITY
1,896
59.2%
1,740
54.3 %
156
4.9%
950
29.6%
429
13.3 %
219
6.8 %
302
9.4%
360
11.2%
3,206
100.0%
COMPARISON OF
HOUSING BY STRUCTURE TYPE
1990
Morehead City L Carteret County North Carohna
59.2% 54.1% 67.6%
29.6% 18.0% 16.3%
11.2% 27.9% 16.1%
Source: U.S. Census of Housing, 1990.
100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Appendix S—May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-24

APPENDIX T
AUTHORIZED RESDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION
BY BUILDING PERMIT
MOREHEAD CITY
1991 - 1995
; Type of Residential Umt :..
191
19`
TO9T_A
Single-Family Unit
45
53
37
31
62
228
55.9%
Duplex Units
0
0
0
0
2
2
0.5 %
3-4 Units
0
0
0
0
0
0
0.0 %
5+ Units
0
0
16
19
0
35
8.6%
Manufactured Homes
30
32
24
33
24
143
35.0%
TOTAL RESIDENTIAL UNITS
75
85
77
83
88
408
100.0%
RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISIONS APPROVED
2
0
0
0
1
3
Source: Town of Morehead City Inspections Department.
Appendix T—May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-25

APPENDIX U
SOIL LIMITATIONS
FOR SELECTED LAND USES
Soil Name/Symbol
Dwellings
Without Basements
Dwellings
With Basements
Small Commercial
Buildings
Local Roads
and Streets
Septic Tank
Absorption Fields
Alta Vista, AaA
Moderate
Severe
Moderate
Moderate
Severe
Augusta, Ag
Severe
Severe
Severe
Moderate
Severe
Arapahoe, Ap
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Autryville, AuB
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Baymeade, ByB
Slight
Moderate
Slight
Slight
Slight
Carteret, CH
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Conetoe, CnB
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Corella, Cu
Severe
Severe
Severe
Moderate
Severe
Deloss, De
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Hobucken, HB
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Kureb, Kull
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Severe
Leon, Ln & Lu
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Lynchburg, Ly
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Mandarin, Me, Mn
Moderate
Severe
Moderate
Moderate
Severe
Masontown, MA
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Murville, Mu
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Newhan, Nd
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Appendix il-May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update
A-16

APPENDIX U
SOIL LIMITATIONS
FOR SELECTED LAND USES
(Continued)
Dwellings
Dwellings Small Commercial
Local Roads
Septic Tank
Soil Name/Symbol
Without Basements
With Basements
Buildings
and Streets
Absorption Fields
Norfolk, NoA
Slight
Moderate
Slight
Slight
Moderate
Onslow, On
Moderate
Severe
Moderate
Moderate
Severe
Rains, Ra
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Seabrook, Se
Moderate
Severe
Moderate
Moderate
Severe
State, StA
Slight
Moderate
Slight
Moderate
Moderate
Tomotely, Tm
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Torhunta, To
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe
Wando, WaB & WuB
Slight
Slight
Slight
Slight
Severe
Source: Soil Survey of Carteret County, NC; September 1987.
Appendix U—May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update
A-17

APPENDIX V
POPULATION PROJECTIONS
1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2005 2010
Carteret County 23,059 27,438 31,603 41,092 52,553 62,161 66,670 70,648
Morehead City 5,144 5,583 5,233 4,359 6,046 8,002 8,582 9,094
'2000-2010 projections by NC Office of State Planning, NC Population Projections, 1996.
'Based upon an identical 1990-2010 growth rate as projected for Carteret County by the N.C. Office of State Planning
(1996-2000: 6.14%; 2000-2005: 7.25%; 2005-2010: 5.97%).
Source: The Wooten Company, 1997.
Appendix V May 18, 1999
Morehead City LAMA Land Use Plan Update A-18

' APPENDIX X
SUMMARY OF ALTERNATIVE POLICY ISSUES
WHICH WERE CONSIDERED BUT NOT DEVELOPED INTO
POLICY STATEMENTS
' 1. Resource Protection Policies
• Prohibiting marinas including dredging for marinas in coastal wetlands.
• Allowing marina maintenance dredging in designated primary nursery areas.
• Designating Annex (or Marsh) Island as a conservation area and limiting its use to exclude
' port -related activities.
• Maintaining the current boundary of the primary nursery area on Calico Creek.
• Developing a local soil erosion and sedimentation control ordinance.
' • Limiting well permits and withdrawal from the Castle Hayne Aquifer.
• Banning bulkheads.
' • Developing greater restrictions on Bogue Sound bulkheads.
2. Resource Production and Management Policies
'
•
Developing a policy on productive agricultural and commercial forests.
'
•
Developing an ordinance to ban off -road vehicle use.
3. Economic and Community Development
'
•
Discouraging the long-term operation of the port facility.
•
Discouraging the expansion of the port facility.
'
•
Considering zoning Annex Island to a less intensive use classification.
•
Developing additional building height restrictions for the Calico Creek area.
•
Developing a public transportation system.
•
Preparing greater building setback and height restrictions for all waterfront areas.
•
Development of an appearance code.
•
Wastewater treatment and disposal alternatives to the present wastewater treatment plant
located on Calico Creek.
1
Appendix X—May 28,1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-30

I
APPENDIX Y
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS
A. CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Morehead City Town Council, on October 17, 1995, appointed the following persons to the
Morehead City Land Use Plan Update Committee:
Marie McCann
1312 Shepard Street
Morehead City, NC 28557
(Planning Board Chair)
Dallas Goodwin
4001 Oak Street
'
Morehead City, NC 28557
(Planning Board Member)
1
David Guyton
4206 Sound Drive
Morehead City, NC 28557
(Planning Board Member)
William Hill
'
309 N. 13th Street
Morehead City, NC 28557
(Planning Board Member)
Appendix Y—May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update
Calvin G. Wellons
P.O.Box 1018
Morehead City, NC 28557
(Town Council Member)
G. A. "Jerry" Jones
Morehead City, NC 28557
(Town Council Member)
Doug Brady, Meridian Seafood, Inc.
Post Office Box 3576
Morehead City, NC 28557
(Planning Board Member)
Staff Support:
R. Randy Martin, City Manager
Perry Taylor, Zoning Administrator
Linda Staab, Planning Director
A-31

B. MEETING DATES
(1) Advisory Committee
November 14, 1995
January 23, 1996
January 25, 1996
February 28, 1996
April 23, 1996
June 4, 1996
June 25, 1996
July 29, 1996
August 21, 1996
June 3, 1997
June 16, 1998
(2) Public Meetings
November 14, 1995, Public Informational Meeting
January 23, 1996 Neighborhood Planning Areas
(Attendance: 8 citizens)
January 25, 1996 Neighborhood Planning Areas
(Attendance: 4 citizens)
July 18, 1996 Planning Board
August 13, 1996 Town Council
July 21, 1998 Planning Board
August 11, 1998 Town Council
May 18, 1999 Planning Board
May 25, 1999 Town Council
(3) Intergovernmental Coordination Meeting
August 21, 1996
(4) Public Hearing
August 13, 1996
June 25, 1999
(5) Meetings with Civic Groups
(6) North Carolina Municipalities Meeting
November 18-19, 1996
(7) Meetings of the Regional Wastewater Task Force and Carteret County Interlocal Agency
C. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN
A copy of the Citizen Participation Plan adopted by the Town Council is attached.
Appendix P--May 28, 1999
Morehead City CdMA land Use Plan Update A-32

'
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN ' ` '997 a,
CAMA Lrnrd Use Plan Update M°+ot,6;
TownofMoreheadCity '���!•
November 14, 1995
'
r -
Subchapter 7B of the North Carolina Administrative Code, Land Use Planning
Guidelines, requires that the Land Use Plan update process include a variety of
'
educational efforts and participation techniques to assure that all segments of the
community have a full and adequate opportunity to participate in all stages of the land
use plan development. It is therefore the responsibility of f the Town to involve, inform
'
and educate a broad cross-section of the Town's populace. It is the Town's intent to have
a continuous citizen participation process that achieves these purposes.
The following steps will be taken to provide information to the public and to encourage
citizen involvement:
'
L Designation of an Advisory Committee
The Town Council of Morehead City will designate a Land Use Plan Advisory
Committee [LUPAC] as the agency responsible for drafting an update of the land use
'
plan. The LUPAC will be composed of the Planning Committee of the Council and five
Planning Board members (four in -city residents and one extra -territorial representative).
The LUPAC will serve in a review and advisory capacity to the Town Council, the
'
Planning Board and the town's planning consultant, The Wooten Company. The LUPAC
will meet on a periodic basis with the Planning Consultant to review draft materials
prepared by the Planning Consultant, assist the Planning Consultant with defining key
'
land use issues and concerns, and provide general input. The LUPAC will keep the
Town Council apprised of its activities and progress through regular oral and/or written
reports to the Town Council.
Z Initial Public Information Meeting
A joint meeting of the Town Council and the LUPAC will be held in November 1995 to
'
serve as both an orientation meeting for the Town Council and the LUPAC and an
educational opportunity to inform the general public of the purpose of the CAMA Land
Use Plan and the process for updating the Plan; to review the policy statements contained
'
within the 1991 Land Use Plan and to outline the town's public participation process.
3. Periodic Land Use Plan Advisory Committee Meetings and Neighborhood
'
Meetings
It is anticipated that the Land Use Plan Advisory Committee [LUPAC] will meet at
strategic points throughout the land use planning process to provide general input into the
'
plan development throughout the land use planning process to provide general input into
the plan development and to review materials prepared by the Planning Consultant.
Meetings will be held to identify goals and objectives; identify land use issues; review a
'
summary report on existing conditions, constraints to land development, and estimated
demands on land and community facilities and services; review draft policy statements;
and review a draft of the entire land use plan update. LUPAC meetings will be.
1

I
' conducted from November 1995 to July 1996. Notices will be published prior to each
meeting. An opportunity for public comment and input will be afforded at each meeting.
Early in the process [January, 1996], the LUPAC will hold a series of neighborhood
' meetings. Notices will be published prior to these meetings. The purpose of
neighborhood meetings is to gather information from the property owners of the
neighborhood to identify goals and objectives and land use issues which are unique to the
' neighborhood. The public will have the opportunity to make comments in this forum.
4. Public Information Meeting on the Preliminary Draft Plan
' Following the completion of a preliminary draft Land Use Plan Update, a second public
information meeting will be held jointly by the Town Council and the LUPAC. The
' purpose of this meeting will be to review the draft Plan, particularly the policy statements
that have been developed and the proposed land classifications. The meeting will afford
another opportunity for public involvement prior to a formal public hearing on the
adoption of the updated Plan. The meeting date is projected to be in August 1996.
' Copies of the preliminary draft Land Use Plan will be available at City Hall.
S. Public Hearing
' A formal public hearing will be held by the Town Council to review the final draft Plan
and to solicit citizen comments on the update of the Land Use Plan. Following the public
' hearing, the Town Council will consider action on adoption of the Plan. The public
hearing will be advertised by newspaper notice at least 30 days prior to the date of the
public hearing which is anticipated to be held in September of 1996. Notice of the public
hearing will also be posted at City Hall. Copies of the final draft Land Use Plan will be
available for review at City Hall.
6. Additional Means of Soliciting Public Involvement
' In addition to the meetings outlined above, Morehead City will utilize the following
means to increase public involvement and information:
' * news releases prior to the public information meetings and the public hearing. It
is anticipated that the news releases will lead to newspaper articles and public service
announcements.
t* presentations by the City's Planning staff to members of civic and business
groups. -
' * summary report on existing conditions, constraints and estimated demands.
' * summary report on preliminary draft policy statements.
The summary reports will be available for public review at City Hall. Copies of the
' reports will also be made available to the media.
ADOPTED the 14th day of November 1995, with Commissioners Galantis,
Geer, Guthrie, Reynolds and Wellons voting for: None voting against;
and none absent. ���ocaryNo9�
' EST: TOWN OF MOREHEAD CITY

APPENDIX Z
SUMMARY OF
STORM HAZARD MITIGATION AND
POST -DISASTER RECONSTRUCTION PLAN POLICIES
The following pages are reproduced from the Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post -Disaster Recovery
Plan which was prepared by George Eichler and Associates and Satilla Planning, Inc. in 1984:
• Pages 8-10 Recommended Hazard Mitigation Policies
• Pages 11-22 Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan
Appendix Z—May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-33

STORM HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
'
AND
POST -DISASTER RECONSTRUCTION PLAN
Prepared for
'
THE TOWN OF MOREHEAD CITY, NORTH CAROLINA
1
1
By:
George Eichler & Associates
'
and
Satilla Planning, Inc.
June 1, 1984
The preparation of this report was financed in part
'
through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Man-
agement 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, N.O.A.A.
1
1

J
I
r�
I
I
I
I
I
G. Recommended Hazard Mitigation Policies
' The entire Town of Morehead City is susceptible to
significant storm damage from a hurricane or a storm of
similar magnitude. About one—half of the Town's planning area
is located in AEC's or in areas susceptible to flooding
associated with the 100—year storm. However, most of the
Town's vacant land that is available for development is above
the 100—year flood level. The entire town is susceptible to
wind damage. In general, the Town's existing mitigation
1

t
' policies meet the requirements for hazard mitigation -.planning
outlined in Before the Storm. Specifically:
' 1. The Town's policies support and are consistent with State
policies and regulations for development in Areas of
Environmental Concern.
2. All new development must conform with the provisions of
the N.C. Building Code.
' 3. The Town's floodplain development policies conform with
all Federal and State requirements.
1
1
1
1
4. The Town does a good job of controlling mobile home
developments in order to minimize hazard damages. Mobile
homes are restricted to a specific district and must conform
with elevation and other requirements.
S. Subdivisions must be designed to minimize flood damage.
The general conclusion is that Morehead City is already
doing a good job to mitigate future storm damages, and that
the Town's policies meet both the requirements and
philosophical objectives delineated in Before the Storm.
Further, Morehead City does not face the threat of extensive
property destruction from hurricanes or the phenomenal growth
rate being experiened by Carteret County's Bogue Banks
communities. The Town's inland location affords it some
protection from the direct assault of a hurricane and vast
majority of the Town's housing stock is located above the 100-
year flood plain.
The only recommended modification of the Town's policies
concerns.the non -conforming uses and structures section of
the Zoning Ordinance. First, Section 4-2, Repairs and
Maintenance, should be amended to include non -conforming
structures. Secondly, the non -conforming structures Section
(4-3) should be amended to delete reference to 75 percent of
the assessed value in determining at which point of
destruction a non -conforming structure cannot be re -built.
The reference to 50 percent of replacement value or cost is
the recommended determining factor. If such a structure is
damaged beyond this point, it should only be rebuilt if it is
brought into compliance with all applicable provisions of the
Zoning Ordinance, Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance and the
N.C. Building Code. Finally, the non -conforming use
Section(4-3) should be amended to prohibit continuance or
rebuilding if the structure is damaged beyond 50 percent of
its replacement value. Again, continuance after such damage
should only be allowed if all applicable regulations can then
be met. To assist in making these revisions, the definitions
Section (Two) should be amended to include a definition for
"non -conforming structures".

I
The rationale behind these recommended changes is that
if a building is destroyed that did not formerly comply with
local codes, it should not be rebuilt unless it does meet all
' existing requirements.
II
II
1
t
1
1
1
1
1

1
III. MOREHEAD CITY POST -DISASTER RECONSTRUCTION PLAN
' A. Introduction
A post -disaster plan provides a program that will permit
a local government to deal with the aftermaths of a storm in
an organized and efficient manner. The Plan provides the
mechanisms, procedures, and policies that will enable a local
' community to learn from its storm experiences and to rebuild
the community in a wise and practical manner.
A post -disaster reconstruction plan encompasses three
distinct reconstruction periods:
o The emergencv period is the reconstruction phase
' immediately after a storm. The emphasis is on re-
storing public health and safety, assessing the
nature and extent of storm damage, and qualifying
' for and obtaining whatever federal and state as-
sistance might be available.
o The restoration Deriod covers the weeks and months
'
following a storm disaster. The emphasis during
this period is on restoring community facilities,
utilities, essential businesses, etc, so that
'
the community can once again function in a normal
manner.
o The replacement reconstruction period is the period
'
during which the community is rebuilt. The period
could last from months to years depending on the
nature and extent of the damages incurred.
1
It is important that local officials clearly understand
the joint federal -state -local procedures for providing
assistance to rebuild after a storm so that local damage
assessment and reconstruction efforts are carried out in an
efficient manner that qualifies the community for the
different types of assistance that are available. The
requirements are generally delineated in the Disaster Relief
Act of 1974 (P.L. 93-288) which authorizes'a wide range of
financial and direct assistance to both local communities and
'
individuals. The sequence of procedures to be followed after
a major storm event is as follows:
' 1. Local damage assessment teams survey storm damage
within the community and report this damage to the
County Emergency Services Coordinator.
2. Damage information is compiled and summarized by the
County, and the nature and extent of damage is re-
ported to the North Carolina Division of Emergency
' Management (DEM).

3. DEM compiles local data and makes recommendations
' to the Governor concerning state actions.
4. The Governor may request a Presidential declaration
' of "emergency" or "major disaster". A Presidential
declaration makes a variety of federal resources
available to local communities and individuals.
'
5. Federal Relief assistance provided to a community
after an "emergency" has been declared typically
ends one month after the initial Presidential de—
claration. Where a "major disaster" has been
declared, federal assistance for "emergency" work
typically ends six months after the declaration
and federal assistance for "permanent" work ends
'
after 18 months.
Federal disaster assistance programs previously provided
aid for communities to rebuild in the same way as existed
before the disaster occurred. This policy tended to foster
recurring mistakes. However, recent federal policy has
started to change the emphasis of disaster assistance
'
programs. Specifically,
' o Executive Order 1198 (Floodplain Management) directs
all federal agencies to avoid either directly or in—
directly supporting future unwise development in
floodplains (e.g. through sewer grants in locations
' that foster floodplain development).
o Section 406 of the Disaster Relief Act can require
' communities, as a prerequisite for federal disaster
assistance, to take specific actions to mitigate
future flood losses.
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The Town has been provided a comprehensive listing of
the Federal Disaster Assistance Programs that may be
available following a major storm. The programs fall into the
categories of Temporary Housing, Individual Assistance and
Assistance to Local and State Governments. The listing is
comprehensive and therefore all the programs listed may not
be applicable to Morehead City.
The remainder of this chapter presents recommended
recovery procedures in the general'sequence of response by
the Town. While damage assessment (Sections B and C) will be
the first operations conducted by the Town after a disaster,
it should be realized that the recommended'recovery
operations (Section D) will begin simultaneously. The
remainder of this chapter is, therefore, organized as
follows:

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1) Procedures that Morehead City should follow to carry
out its damage assessment program to meet all
federal and state requirements including'organi-
zation of the damage assessment team and recom-
mended damage assessment procedures.
2) An overall organizational framework for restoration
operations after the emergency period.
3) Replacement/Reconstruction policies that the Town
should adopt to insure that future development that
does occur in local hazard areas is constructed in
a manner consistent with sound land use planning,
public safety considerations, and existing and evol-
ving federal and state policy.
B. Organization of Local Damage Assessment Team
A local damage assessment team should include
individuals who are qualified to give reliable estimates of'
the original value of structures, an estimated value of
sustained damages and a description of the repairs (and
costs) that will be needed to rebuild each structure.
Following is a listing of Morehead City personnel available
to assume these responsibilities.
Administrative
City Manager
2 Building Inspectors
Town Officials
1 Mayor
5 Council Members
Public Works
1 Director
Public Utilities
1 Director
1 Labor Supervisor
Rescue
1 Captain
20 Volunteers
Police
1 Police Chief
14 Officers
Fire
1 Chief
12 Engineers
20 Volunteers
Streets & Sanitation
1 Superintendent
1 Labor Supervisor
Recreation
1 Director
The Chief Building Inspector should head the Damage
Assessment Team. Other members of the team should consist of
the Fire Chief, volunteers recruited from the community, and

the other Building Inspector. The Building Inspectors, Fire
Chief and volunteers must be recruited, organized and trained
' prior to a storm occurrence. There should also be back—ups or
alternates to ensure the availability of adequate resources.
' The suggested make—up of the Morehead City Damage
Assessment Team is as follows:
o Building Inspector (Team Chief)
o Fire Chief
o Building Inspector
o Local Property Appraiser (MAI or qualified broker)
o Building Contractor
o Architect *
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* Community Volunteer
The Mayor should immediately undertake a recruitment
effort to secure the necessary volunteers and to establish a
training program to familiarize the members of the damage
assessment team with required damage classification
procedures and reporting requirements. In doing so, it must
be recognized that it might be very difficult to fill certain
positions, such as the building contractor position, because
the services of individuals with such skills will likely be
in a great demand after a storm disaster.
C. Damage Assessment Procedures and Requirements
Damage assessment is defined as a rapid means of
determining a realistic estimate of the amount of damage
caused by a natural or man—made disaster. For a storm
disaster, it is expressed in terms of 1) number of structures
damaged; 2) magnitude of damage by structure type; 3)
estimated total dollar loss; and 4) estimated total dollar
loss covered by insurance.
After a major storm event, members of the Damage
Assessment Team should report to the Emergency Operations
Center prior to deployment. The extent of damage will depend
on the magnitude of the storm and where landfall occurs along
the Atlantic coast. Because of the potentially large job at
hand, the limited personnel resources available to conduct
the assessments, and the limited time within which the
initial assessment must be made, the first phase of the
assessment should consist of only an external visual survey
of damaged structures. A more detailed second phase
assessment can be made after the initial damage reports are
filed.
The initial damage assessment should make an estimate of
the extent of damage incurred by each structure and identify
the cause (wind, flooding, wave action, combination, etc.) of
the damage to each structure.

'
Damaged structures should be classified in accordance
with the suggested State guidelines as follows:
o Destroyed (repairs would cost more than 80 percent
of value).
'
o Major (repairs would cost more than 30 percent of
the value).
to
Minor (repairs would cost less than 30 percent of
the value, but the structure is currently unin—
habitable).
o Habitable (some minor damage, with repairs less than
'
15 percent of the value).
It will be necessary to thoroughly document each
assessment. In many cases, street signs, house addresses and
other information typically used to identify specific
structures will not be found. Consequently, the Damage
Assessment Team must be provided with tax maps, other maps
and photographic equipment in order to record and document
its field observations. Enough information to complete the
Damage Assessment Worksheet must be obtained on each damaged
'
structure.
The second phase of the Damage Assessment Operation will
be to estimate the value of the damages sustained. This
operation should be carried out in the Emergency Operations
Center under the direction and supervision of the Town Clerk.
Specific administrative employees in Town Hall should be
'
assigned to assist in carrying out this task.
In order to estimate total damage values it will be
necessary to have the following information available for use
at the Emergency Operations Center:
o A set of property tax maps identical to those
'
utilized by the damage assessment field team.
o Copies of all Town property tax records. This
'
information should indicate the estimated value
of all commercial and residential structures
within the Town. Because time will be of the es—
sence, it is recommended that the Town immediately
commence a project listing the property values of
existing structures on the appropriate lots of the
.property tax maps that will be kept at the Emergency
'
Operations Center. While somewhat of a tedious job,
it should be manageable if it is initiated now and
completed over a 1 to 2 month period. The infor—
mation will prove invaluable if a storm disaster
does occur. This set of tax maps should be updated
annually prior to the hurricane season.

tAdditionally, the average value of flood insurance
coverage that is carried by program participants needs to be
determined. County officials recently polled local mortgage
'
institutions to determine the average flood insurance policy
coverage and the estimated number of property owners in flood
hazard areas that carry the insurance. The results of this
May, 1984 survey were that 75% of the homeowners with
mortgaged property in the floodplain have 75% to 80%
coverage. Overall, it was estimated that only 10%-15% of all
homes in the flood plain have insurance covering 75%-80% of
'
the improvements. The Town should verify these estimates and
update this information annually before the hurricane season.
'
In order to produce the damage value information
required, the following methodology is recommended:
'
1. The number of businesses and residential
structures that have been damaged within the
Town should be summarized by damage classification
'
category.
2. The value of each damaged structure should be
obtained from the marked set of Town tax maps and
t
multipled by the following percentages for approp-
riate damage classification category.
'
o Destroyed - 100%
o Major Damage - 50%
o Minor Damage (uninhabitable) - 25%
'
o Habitable - 10%
3. The total value of damages for the Town should then
be summarized and reported, as required, to the
'
County Emergency Operations Center.
4. The estimated value loss covered by hazard insurance
'
should then be determined by: 1) estimating
full coverage for all damaged structures for
situations where the average value of such coverage
exceeds the amount of damage to the structure; and
'
2) multiplying the number of structures where damage
exceeds the average value of insurance coverage by
'
the average value of such coverage.
The Damage Assessment Plan is intended to be the
mechanism for estimating overall property damage in the event
'
of a civil disaster. The procedure recommended above
represents an approach for making a relatively quick,
realistic 'order of magnitude" damage estimate after a
tdisaster.

'
D. Organization of Recovery Operations
Damage assessment operations are oriented to take place
during the emergency period. After the emergency operations
'
to restore public health and safety and the initial damage
assessments are completed, the State guidelines suggest that
a Recovery .Task Force to guide restoration and reconstruction
activities be created. In Morehead City, the Mayor and
'
Town Council should assume the responsibilities of such a
Task Force with the City Manager directing day-to-day
operations based on the policy guidance received from the
'
Mayor and Town Council. The following must be accomplished:
1. Establishing reentry procedures for secured areas
'
such as the waterfront and areas that were
evacuated.
'
2. Establishing an overall restoration schedule.
3. Setting restoration priorities.
4. Determining requirements for outside assistance
and requesting such assistance when beyond local
capabilities.
'
S. Keeping the appropriate County and State officials
informed using Situation and Damage Reports.
6. Keeping the informed.
public
'
7. Assembling and maintaining records of actions taken
expenditures incurred.
and and obligations
8. Proclaiming a local "state of emergency" if
'
warranted.
9. Commencing cleanup, debris removal and utility
restoration activities undertaken by private
'
utility companies.
'
10. Undertaking repair and restoration of essential
public facilities and services in accordance with
priorities developed through the situation eval-
uations.
11. 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.
' In Before the Storm, a sequence and schedule for
undertaking local reconstruction and restoration activities
is presented. The schedule was deliberately left vague
' because specific reconstruction needs will not be known until
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after a storm hits and the magnitude of the damage can be
assessed. The following sequence of activities and schedule
is submitted as a guide which should be reconsidered by the
Mayor and Town Council and revised as necessary after the
damage assessment activities are completed.
Activitv
1. Complete Initial Damage
Assessment
Z. Complete Second Phase
Damage Assessment
3. Prepare Summary of Re-
construction Needs
4. Decision with Regard
to Imposition of Temporary
Development Moratorium
5. Set Reconstruction
Priorities and Prepare
Master Reconstruction
Schedule
6. Begin Repairs to Critical
Utilities and Facilities
7. Permitting of Recon-
struction Activities
for all Structures
Receiving Minor Damage
Not Included in Develop-
ment Moratorium Areas
8. Permitting of Recon-
struction Activities
for all Structures
Receiving Major Damage
Not Included in Develop-
ment Moratorium Areas
9. Initiate Assessment of
Existing Mitigation
Policies
Time Frame
Immediately after storm
passes
Completed by second week
after the storm
Completed one week after
damage second phase
is completed.
One week after second phase
damage assessment is
completed
Completed one week after
summary of reconstruction
needs is completed
As soon as possible
after disaster
One week after second phase
damage assessment is
complete
Two weeks after second
phase damage assessment is
complete
Two weeks after second
phase damage assessment is
complete
10. Complete Re-evaluation The length of the period
of Hazard Areas and Miti- for conducting re-evalu-
gation Policies in Areas ation and receiving input
Subjected to Development from the State should not
Moratorium exceed two months.

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Activity
Time Frame
11. Revise Mitigation Policies Two months after Temporary
and Development Standards Development Moratorium
for Areas Subjected to De— is imposed. (Subject to
velopment Moratorium and change based on circum—
Lift Development Moratorium stances encountered)
12. Permit New Development Upon suspension of any
temporary development
moratorium
E. Recommended Reconstruction Policies
All the following policies have been designed to be
1) considered and adopted by the Mayor and Council of
Morehead City prior to a storm; and 2) implemented, as
appropriate, after a storm occurs.
'
Reentry
1.
Reentry of secured areas or evacuated areas by property
owners shall not be permitted until 1) the critical
'
damage assessment has been completed; 2) the Mayor
proclaims such areas of the Town safe to re—enter.
2.
A list of Morehead City property owners and business
proprietors shall be maintained at the Emergency
Operations Center. Valid identification must be shown
'
in order to proceed into evacuated or secured areas.
Passes shall be issued and displayed at all times until
the State of Emergency is officially lifted.
'
Permitting
1.
Building permits to restore structures located outside of
designated AEC areas that were previously built in con—
'
formance with local codes, standards and the provisions
of the North Carolina Building Code shall be issued auto—
matically.
'
2.
All structures suffering major damages as defined in the
Town's Damage Assessment Plan shall be repaired or re—
built to conform with the provisions of the North
Carolina Building Code, the Morehead City Zoning Ordin—
ance, and the Morehead City Floodplain Management Regu—
lations, and State regulations for development in
AEC's, if applicable.
'
3.
All structures suffering minor damage as defined in the
Morehead City Damage Assessment Plan shall be permitted
to be rebuilt to their original state before the storm
condition.
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4. For all structures in designated AEC's and for all
mobile home locations, a determination shall be made
for each AEC as to whether the provisions of the N.C.
Building Code, the State Regulations for Areas of
Environmental Concern, and the Morehead City Flood —
plain Management Regulations appeared adequate in mini—
mizing storm damages. For areas where the construction
and use requirements appear adequate, permits shall be
issued in accordance with permitting policies 1, 2 and
3. For AEC's where the construction and use require—
ments do not appear to have been adequate in mitigating
damages, a Temporary Development Moratorium for all
structures located within that specific AEC shall be
imposed.
S. Permits shall not be issued in areas subject to a Tem—
porary Development Moratorium until such a moratorium
is lifted by the Mayor and Council.
Utilitv and Facility Reconstruction
All damaged water systems components shall be repaired so
as to be elevated above the 100—year floodplain or shall
be floodproofed, with the methods employed and the con—
struction being certified by a registered professional
engineer.
Temporary Development Moratorium
Under certain circumstances, interim development
moratoriums can be used in order to give a local government
time to assess damages, to make sound decisions and to learn
from its storm experiences. Such a moratorium must be
temporary and it must be reasonably related to the public
health, safety and welfare.
There is no doubt that Morehead City will suffer
significant and serious damages should a major storm have its
landfall in its vicinity. Consequently, the Town should be
prepared to issue Temporary Development Moratoriums as
appropriate.
It is not possible to determine prior to a storm whether
a temporary development moratorium will be -needed. Such a
measure should only be used if damage in a particular area is
very serious and if redevelopment of the area in the same
manner as previously existed would submit the residents of
the area to similar public health and safety problems. In
Morehead City, such a situation is most likely to occur along
the waterfront and in flooded areas.
1

'
The Morehead City policy regarding the proclamation of
temporary development moratoriums shall be:
1. To determine for each AEC whether the provisions
of N.C. Building Code, the State Guidelines for
Areas of Environmental Concern, and the Morehead
'
City Floodplain Management Regulations appeared
adequate in minimizing storm damages. For AEC's
where the construction and use requirements do not
'
appear adequate, a Temporary Development Moratorium
for all structures located within that specific
AEC shall be imposed.
'
2. After imposing a Temporary Development Moratorium
for an AEC, the Town of Morehead City shall request
that the Coastal Resources Commission conduct a
'
special analysis for the Town and all other com—
munities so similar, in order to determine how
'
local regulations for those hazard areas, which are
based on State and or Federal guidelines or require—
ments, should be improved or modified. A response
from the State within a reasonable time period as
determined through negotiations should be requested.
3. The Temporary Building Moratorium in all AEC's shall
be lifted after local ordinances and regulations
t
have been revised after receiving recommendations
from the State or at the discretion of the Mayor
'
and Council if a response is not made within a
reasonable period of time. In the latter case, recon—
struction shall be permitted in accordance with
existing regulations and requirements.
1
Wind Damage
'
It is assumed that many structures constructed to
conform with the provisions of the North Carolina Building
Code will not be able to withstand the accompanying winds if
a major hurricane hits the N.C. coast. It is stated in
Before the Storm that "the State Building Code, as it now
stands, falls short in adequately protecting buildings from
the damaging forces of hurricanes and other coastal storms.
'
The Building Code Council, in seeking to maintain uniformity
of regulation across the state, has been resistant in the
past to allowing more stringent local standards. Another
'
problem small coastal communities are likely to face is a
lack of fiscal and staff resources to sponsor the engineering
and architectural studies that the Building Code Council
'
requires to justify any local variations to the Code."
While Morehead City has no technical studies to indicate
that the provisions of the Code are inadequate as they effect
1
the Town, the Town should have some flexibility in imposing
stricter standards if it desires. This is a problem that the

' Coastal Resources Commission must face if it expects local
communities to take the initiative in developing effective
storm mitigation programs. The Town policy shall be to
' request the Coastal Resources Commission to carefully assess
this problem which is common to all coastal communities.
1
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j

APPENDIX AA
GLOSSARY
ADT (Average Daily Traffic). The average number of cars per day that pass over a given point.
' Anadromous. Ascending rivers from the sea for breeding. Fish species, such as shad, herring, and
striped bass, migrate from their primary habitats in the oceans up freshwater rivers and streams to
spawn.
Areas of Environmental Concern. The Coastal Area Management Act (LAMA) designates four
categories of areas of environmental concern (AEC's): the estuarine system, the ocean hazard system,
' public water supplies, and natural and cultural resource areas. These AEC's, and the standards for
development within them, cover almost all coastal waters and three percent of the land in the twenty
coastal counties in North Carolina.
' Benthic. Living in or on the bottom of a body of water.
Best Management Practice (BMP). A method, activity, maintenance procedure, or other
management practice for reducing the amount of pollution entering a body of water.
CAMA. Coastal Area Management Act of 1974.
Coastal Complex Natural Areas. Lands that support native plant and animal communities and
provide habitat qualities which have remained essentially unchanged by human activity.
' Coastal Wetlands. Any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides,
including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through natural or
artificial watercourses), provided this shall not include hurricane nor tropical storm tides. Coastal
wetlands contain some, but not necessarily all, of the following marsh plant species:
Cord Grass
. Bulrush
Black Needlerush
. Saw Grass
Glasswort
. Cat -tail
' Salt Grass
Salt Meadow Grass
Sea Lavender
. Salt Reed Grass
Also included in this definition is such contiguous land as the Secretary of the NC Department of
Environment , Health and Natural Resources reasonably deems necessary to affect by any such order in
carrying out the purposes of the CAMA regulations.
CRC. Coastal Resources Commission.
' DCM. Division of Coastal Management, North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and
Natural Resources.
Appendix AA May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA land Use Plan Update A-34

Estuarine Shorelines. Those non -ocean shorelines which are especially vulnerable to erosion,
flooding, or other adverse effects of wind and water and are intimately connected to the estuary. This
area extends from the mean high water level or normal water level along the estuaries, sounds, bays
and brackish waters for a distance of 75 feet landward. For those estuarine shorelines immediately
contiguous to waters classified as Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), the estuarine shoreline extends
575 feet landward from the mean high water level or normal water level.
Estuarine System. The coast's broad network of brackish sounds, marshes, and the shorelines
' surrounding them. The following components of the estuarine system have been designated as AEC's:
estuarine waters, public trust areas, coastal wetlands, and estuarine shorelines
Estuarine Waters. All the waters of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundary of North Carolina and all
the waters of the bays, sounds, rivers, and tributaries thereto seaward of the dividing line between
coastal fishing waters and inland fishing waters, as set forth in an agreement adopted by the Wildlife
' Resources Commission and the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources.
Estuary. A semi -enclosed body of water where fresh water draining from the mainland mixes with
' salt water from the ocean.
Floating Structures. Any structure, not a boat, supported by a means of flotation, designed to be used
' without a permanent foundation, which is used or intended for human habitation or commerce. A
structure is considered a floating structure when it is inhabited or used for commercial purposes for more
than thirty days in any one location. A boat may be deemed a floating structure when its means of
propulsion has been removed or rendered inoperative and it contains at least 200 square feet of living
space area. A boat is defined as a vessel or watercraft of any type or size specifically designed to be self-
propelled, whether by engine, sail, oar, or paddle or other means, which is used to travel from place to
' place by water.
Fecal Colilform. Bacteria from the intestinal tracts of warm-blooded animals. High numbers of fecal
coliform bacteria in a water body may indicate a recent release of untreated wastewater and/or the,
presence of animal feces. Fecal coliform is used as an indicator for managing the closure of shellfish
beds to protect the public health.
Freshwater Wetlands. Swamps and inland wetlands that are not covered by the Coastal Area
Management Act, unless the Coastal Resource Commission designates them as a natural resource AEC.
Freshwater wetlands are protected by the Clean Water Act and a US Army Corps of Engineers permit
is required for work in them.
Freestanding Moorings. Any means to attach a ship, boat, vessel, floating structure or other water
craft to a stationary underwater device, mooring buoy, buoyed anchor, or piling (as long as the piling
is not associated with an existing or proposed pier, dock, or boathouse).
Impaired Waters. Surface waters that are negatively impacted by pollution resulting in decreased
water quality.
Marinas. Any publicly- or privately -owned dock, basin, or wet boat storage facility constructed to
accommodate more than 10 boats and providing any of the following services: permanent or transient
' docking spaces, dry storage, fueling facilities, haulout facilities, and repair service. Excluded from this
Appendix AA May 28, 1999
' Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-35

definition are boat ramp facilities allowing access only, temporary docking, and none of the preceding
services.
' Migration Rate. Migration rate is the difference between population in -migration and out -migration
expressed as a percentage of the base year total population. It is derived by dividing natural increase
' (or decrease) by the base year total population.
Natural and Cultural Resource Areas. 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.
' Natural Increase. Natural increase is the difference between total births and total deaths.
' Net Migration. Net migration is the difference between total population change and natural increase
(or decrease).
Normal High Water. The ordinary extent of high tide based upon site conditions such as presence and
location of vegetation, which has its distribution influenced by tidal action, and the location of the
apparent high tide line.
' Normal Water Level. The level of water bodies with less than six inches of lunar tide during periods
of little or no wind. It can be determined by the presence of such physical and biological indicators as
erosion escarpments, trash lines, water lines, marsh grasses, and barnacles.
Nutrient Sensitive Waters. A supplemental water classification developed by the Division of Water
' Quality that is intended for waters needing additional nutrient management due to their being subject to
excessive growth of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation.
' Ocean Beaches. Lands consisting of unconsolidated soil materials that extend from the mean low
water line landward to a point where either the growth of vegetation occurs or a distinct change in
slope or elevation alters the configuration of the landform, whichever is farther landward.
' Ocean Hazard Areas. Beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other areas along the Atlantic Ocean
shoreline in which geologic, vegetative, and soil conditions indicate a substantial possibility of
excessive erosion or flood damage. The ocean hazard system of AEC's contains the following areas:
ocean erodible areas, high hazard flood areas, inlet hazard areas, and unvegetated beach areas.
' On -site Wastewater Treatment Systems. Systems, including septic tanks and package treatment
plants, which treat wastewater where it is produced. These systems are smaller in scale than municipal
central sewage treatment plants.
Outstanding Resource Waters. Estuarine waters and public trust areas classified by the North
Carolina Environmental Management Commission as waters of exceptional state or national
recreational or ecological significance.
Appendix AA May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-36

Primary Nursery Areas. Areas in the estuarine system where initial post larval development of frifish
and crustaceans takes place. They are usually located in the uppermost sections of an estuarine system
' where populations are uniformly early juvenile stages.
Public Water Supplies. Public water supply AEC's include small surface water supply watersheds
' and public water supply well fields. Small water supply watersheds are catchment areas situated
entirely within the coastal area which contain a water body classified as A-H by the Environmental
Management Commission. Public water supply well fields are areas of well -drained sands that extend
' downward from the surface into the shallow ground water table which supplies the public with potable
water.
' Public Trust Areas. 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 of access; all water in artificially created bodies of water
containing significant public fishing resources or other public resources which are accessible to the
' public by navigation from bodies of water in which the public has acquired rights by prescription,
custom, usage, dedication, or any other means. Public trust areas overlap with the estuarine waters
AEC, but they also cover inland fishing waters that are not in the estuarine waters AEC.
' Riparian. Relating to the bank or shoreline of a body of water.
1
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Runoff. Water which is not absorbed by soil and which drains off the land into bodies of water
Significant Coastal Archaeological Resources. Areas that contain archaeological remains (objects,
features, and/or sites) that have more than local significance to history or prehistory.
Significant Coastal Historic Architectural Resources. Districts, structures, buildings, sites or objects
that have more than local significance to history or architecture.
Stormwater. Water which is generated by rainfall, causes runoff, and often is routed into drainage
systems.
Unique Coastal Geologic Formations. Sites that contain geologic formations that are unique or
otherwise significant components of coastal systems, or that are especially notable examples of geologic
formations or processes in the coastal area.
Water -dependent Uses. Uses that must be located near or in water to accomplish their intended
purpose. Examples include navigation channels, drainage ditches, docks, wharfs, piers, bulkheads,
utility easements, revetments, culverts, mooring pilings, boat ramps, groins, bridges, and bridge
approaches.
Watershed. The geographic region within which water drains to a particular river, stream, or body of
water.
Wetlands. The Division of Coastal management has developed the following definitions for wetlands:
Appendix AA May 28, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-37

Altered Wetlands. Areas of human impact that has physically disturbed the wetlands but the
area is still wetland.
Bottomland Hardwoods. Seasonally flooded forested or occasionally scrub/shrub areas
' usually occurring in floodplains. Typical species include hickories, oaks (overcup, water,
laurel, swamp chestnut),sweet gum, green ash cottonwoods, willows, river birch, and
occasionally pines.
Disturbed Wetlands. Areas of hydric soils where vegetation has been removed. (No longer
wetlands)
Drained Wetlands. Any wetland system described herein which is or has been effectively
drained.
Estuarine Forested. A forested wetland community subject to occasional flooding by tides,
including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through natural
' or artificial watercourses). Examples include pine dominated communities with Juncus spp.
understories or fringe swamp communities such as those which occur along the Albemarle and
Pamlico sounds.
Estuarine Shrub Scrub. Any shrub/scrub dominated community subject to occasional
flooding by tides, including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland
' areas through natural or artificial watercourses). Typical species include Myrica spp. and
Juniperus virginiana.
' Freshwater Marsh. Herbaceous areas which are flooded for extended periods during the
growing season. Included in this are marshes within lacustrine systems, managed
impoundments, some Carolina Bays, and nontidal other non -tidal marshes (i.e. marshes which
do not fall into the Salt/Brackish Marsh category). Typical communities include species of
sedges, millets, ashes and grasses not specified in the coastal wetland regulations. Also
included is Amndinaria gigantea, Sagittaria spp., Pontederia spp,. Peltandra spp.,
Polygonum spp., and 7ypha spp.
Hardwood Flat. Poorly drained interstream flats not associated with rivers or estuaries.
' Seasonally saturated by high water table or poor drainage. Species vary greatly but often
include Liquidambar styraci flua and Acer rubrum.
' Headwater Swamps. Wooded, riverine systems along first order streams. These include
hardwood dominated communities with moist soil most of the year. Channels receive their
water from overland flow and rarely overflow their own banks.
Managed Pinelands. Seasonally saturated, managed pine forests (usually Pinus taeda)
occurring on hydric soils.
' Maritime Forest. A forested community characterized by its stunted growth due to the
stresses imposed by its vicinity to salt spray from the ocean. Typical vegetation includes
Quercus virginiana, Acer rubrum and Nyssa biflora.
Appendix AA —May 28,1999
Morehead City CAMA land Use Plan Update A-38

i
Pine Flats. Palustrine, seasonally saturated pine communities on hydric soils that may become
quite dry for part of the year. Generally on flat or nearly flat interfluves. Usually dominated
by Pinus raeda. This category does not include managed pine systems.
' Pocosin. Palustrine scrub/shrub communities (i.e. non -Estuarine Scrub/Shrub) dominated by
evergreen shrubs, often mixed with pond or loblolly pines. Typically occur on saturated, acid,
nutrient poor, sandy or peaty soils usually removed from large streams and subject to periodic
burning.
Salt/Brackish Marsh. Any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding
' by tides, including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through
natural or artificial watercourses), provided this shall not include hurricane or tropical storm
waters. Coastal wetland plant species include: Spartina alterniflora, Juncus roemerianus,
Salicornia spp., Distichlis spicata, Limonium spp., Scirpus spp., Cladiumfaillaicense, Typha
spp., Spartina patens and Spartina cywosuroides.
' Swamp Forest. Riverine and non-riverine forested or scrub/shrub communities which are
semi -permanently flooded, including temporarily flooded depressional systems. Typical
species include Taxodium spp., Ayssa spp., Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Acer rubrum and Carya
' aquatica.
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Appendix AA May 18, 1999
Morehead City CAMA Land Use Plan Update A-39