Land Use Plan-1991

lease do not remove!!!!!
Division of Co"-stal Management
LAND USE PLAN
Newport, North Carolina
1991
Prepared by the
Town of Newport

TOWN OF NEWPORT
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
THE PREPARATION OF THIS DOCUMENT WAS FINANCED, IN PART,
THROUGH A GRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA 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 MANAGEMENT, NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC
ADMINISTRATION.
LOCAL ADOPTION DATE; July 2, 199.1
CRC CERTIFICATION DATE: July 25, 1991

THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAP WAS FINANCED, IN PART THROUGIJ
A GRANT PROVIDED BY T11E NORTIi CAROLIPIA XUJAGIM. jT PROGRAM
• TIiROUGH FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZOPIE MA 4AGEt-IFIFE
ACT OF 1972, AS AMF MED, M1ICI1 IS ADM TJSTERED BY TIIE
OFFICE OF OCFA1I AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT,
f = NATIONAL OCEAtIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION.
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Y
1991 NEWPORT LAND USt PLAN UPDATE
(SKETCH LEVEL)
I INTRODUCTION
This land use plan represents an update of the existing
Newport Land Use Plan of 1981.and when adopted will supersede the
previous plan. The original plan and its five year updates are
required by the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act
(CAMA). The Town of Newport Planning Board is the local planning
agency whose responsibility it is to oversee the planning
process, of which this land use plan is a part. This document is
in accordance with the land use planning guidelines (Subchapter
7b-15NCAC).
Land use planning is based on many factors including
topography, drainage, soils, existing uses of land and water,
availability of community services, roads, population
projections, trends in economic development, and future land use
needs. The coordination of all these factors is what planning,
in general, is all about. Planning is essential to avoid the
chaos typical of other areas experiencing faster growth. But
land use planning is not an end in itself. Although the plan
allows for changes in the future, it must be implemented to
receive the benefits from its application.
Since the last land use plan update, the Town of Newport has
moved steadily forward, implementing many of the policies set
forth at that time. The foresight of the town officials and
citizens has provided an excellent foundation on which to
continue the town planning process.
II EXISTING CONDITIONS
A) The Site and Situation of Newport
The Town of Newport, incorporated in 1866, is located
on the Newport River which flows for about four miles eastward
until the stream becomes an estuary. The estuary is important as
a fishery as well as a commercial and recreational waterway.
Newport is safe from coastal hazards because it is sited inland
about seven miles north of the Atlantic Ocean and about twenty
feet above mean sea level. The effects of storm tides are
minimal although there is a potential hazard from high winds
resulting from extratropical cyclones and hurricanes. The Town
is on an upland surface between the Newport River and Deep Creek.
While the two stream valleys are less than five feet above mean
sea level, the upland is more than thirty feet.' The rise from
the valleys is moderate, and the upland's relative •-elief varies
less than ten feet. Several small ponds are locat(A on the
upland surface adding to the pleasant landscape.
1

The situation of Newport is continuously changing as a
result of population growth in surrounding areas. At one time,
U.S. 70 came through the central business district (CBD) of
Newport. At that time the Town was primarily a farm and forest
service center for the surrounding rural area. The railroad
added to the importance of the Town as a stop between Morehead
City and Havelock and on to New Bern and points to the north and
west. The Town's character changed because of its proximity to
MCAS, Cherry Point in the 1940's and again in the early 1960's
when U.S. 70 was constructed as a four lane highway about a mile
to the west of the CBD to accommodate increased traffic to and
from the Morehead City and Havelock areas. With the need for
more housing in nearby Havelock, Newport was able to offer many
people affordable housing. With Newport being less than eight
miles from Havelock and about nine miles from the Atlantic Beach
bridge in Morehead City, the Town can take advantage of being
close to significant commercial, recreational, and industrial
activities while enjoying the aesthetics of a small town.
B) Population and Economy
The Town of Newport has grown and prospered because of its
site and situation. Newport's population has increased at a
steady rate from 1940 to 1960, and from 1960 to 1970 the growth
has been greater than in the past (see Figure 1). Part of the
increase can be attributed to the establishment of Conner Homes
Corporation in 1958 and MCAS, Cherry Point, but a natural increase
has also taken place. The population in 1991 is 2,782. ,
The local and nearby industries support the income of the
Town's people by being "basic" industries. That is, industries
such as agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing produce goods
for export to other areas bringing outside money into the Towti
(see Figure 2). The local income varies widely with about 53% of
the households having an income less than the median (see Figure
3). With nearby shopping areas in Havelock and Morehead City,
retail activity and professional services are a,small contributor..
to the local economy.
C) Existing Land Use
The 1991 pattern of land use in Newport is similar to that
of the land use in 1976 and 1981, but with one large difference
(see EXISTING LAND USE MAP). The land that was once forested or
farmed between the highways and the railroad is now increasingly
being utilized by residential subdivisions. This residential
land use makes up approximately 30% of the land (see Table 1)
This trend is expected to continue.
Present commercial growth continues near the intersection of
Howard Blvd. and U.S. 70 along Howard Blvd. and along old U.S.
70. Much of the commerce is directed toward the local market.
Industrial land uses are not expected to change very much in the
future.
2

TABLE 1
IN TOWN
Land Use
Present Acreage Hof Total
Future Demand
Residential
350.8
29.5%
259.6
Commercial
20.2
1.7%
15.0
Institutional
46.0
3.9%
1.3
Cultural
12.9
1.1%
10.0
Industrial
33.1
2.8%
24.5
Roads & RR
123.1
10.3%
N/A
Waters and
• Floodway
53.3
4.5%
N/A
Open Space
551.0
46.3%
N/A
Total
1,190.4
Total 310.4
TOWN's ETJ
Residential"
369.1
7.7%
273.1
Commercial
22.0
.5%
16.3
Institutional
29.4
.5%
21.8
Cultural
45.9
1.9%
34.0
Roads & RR
259,0
5.4%
N/A
Waters and
Floodway
174.5
3.7%
N/A
Open Space
3,863.9
81.1%
N/A
Total
4,763.8
Total 345.2
TOWN PLUS ETJ
Residential
719.9
12.1`,
-
Open Space
4,414.9
74.2%
-
Industrial
33.1
1.0%
-
Waters and
Floodway
227.8
3.8%
-
Institutional
75.4
1.3%
-
Commercial
42.2
1.0%
-
Cultural
58.8
1.0%
-
Roads & RR
382.1
6.4`,
-
Total
5,954.2
D)
Constraints
_Resources Suitability
Land for
development
is sometimes limited
due to its
suitability for
uses. These
limitations are
mainly due to
natural features,
although
some are caused by
man. Hazard and
fragile areas,
and areas with.resource
potential,
soils, slope
and sources of
water supply
can be considered
limitations to town
growth.
3

1) Hazard,'Fragile and Resource Potential Areas - The only
hazard area in the Town is the floodable area. Much of the
floodable area is along the Newport River and Deep Creek (see
LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP). This area has been mapped as part of
the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) program.
Fragile areas in Newport are associated with adjacent
water bodies: Wetlands and Public Trust waters. Such areas are
AEC's (Areas of Environmental Concern) and important because
unregulated and unplanned development can damage or eliminate
their valuable resources. Fragile areas or AEC's are as follows:
a) Public Trust Waters - The Newport River and Deep
Creek are available for all to use, but water quality must be
maintained.
b) Coastal Wetlands - These marshes play an important
role in the life cycle of many animals as well as man. They are
easily damaged by pollution and must be protected.
c) Wooded Swamps - These wetlands, which includes swamp
forest, are located along the Newport River and its tributaries.
Wetlands are protected by several regulatory agencies, so any
alteration must be approved.
d) Resource Potential Areas - Since Newport is an urban
area, areas with resource potential are mostly outside the Town
limits. These are several ponds in the town that might have
limited resource potential for recreational fishing. The areas
with resource potential near the Town are described below:
1) The Newport River, its tributaries, and the wetlands
have resource potential. These areas may take the form of
natural and recreational resources.
2) Farmland is another resource in the Town. Most of it
is in the Town's extraterritorial area.
3) The largest and most important area with resource
potential is the Croatan National Forest. Part of the forest is
in the Town's extraterritorial area. Newport is very fortunate
to have the forest located close to it. The forest helps to
maintain the quiet and peaceful atmosphere which Newport enjoys
by preventing industrial and commercial development in those
areas. Additionally, there are many wildlife and plant habitats,
which are a priceless treasure.
2) Soil and Slope Limitations - The Newport area has a large
amount of poor soils, but this is not a major concern since the
Town has community water, sewer, and storm drainage systems.
There are about twenty different soil series in the Town. All
but five of these have a high water table and are considered wet
soils. The better soils cover a very small portion of the Town's
4

total land area. This means that just about any type of
development will require special planning provisions, good
design, and careful management. Soils are site specific and
there can be several different soils on one site, so an on -site
inspection is needed to determine specific limitations.
Generally, the gentle slopes of Newport tend to be suitable for
development.
3) Sources of Water Supply - As with most coastal areas,
Newport depends on ground water for its water supply. At the
present time no known problems exist with respect to the quantity
or quality of the coastal aquifers.
E) Constraints: Community Facilities
1) Drinking water, Wastewater and Storm Water Systems -
The Town water system has a maximum capacity of 518,400 gallons
per day (GPD). Presently the system is being used at
approximately 62% capacity. The water system will need to be
expanded in the next twenty years to accommodate the projected
population.
Newport has a contact stabilization wastewater
treatment plant with a capacity of 500,000 GPD. The Town should
be able to serve its present customers and additional growth
resulting from population increase, annexation, or from extending
lines outside of the Town limits.
The Town hasa storm water system separate from the
sewer system. The system is difficult to maintain because of
access to drainage ditches on private property.
It is important that the Town maintain good drinking
water, wastewater and storm drainage systems since the soils are
limited for individual wastewater systems and surface water
quality is easily impacted.
2) Schools, Roads, and Recreation Service - Newport Elementary,
Croatan Middle School, and West Carteret High School serve the
Town. All of these schools are very near capacity.
U.S. 70 is the major link to the outside world for Newport.
Old U.S. 70 and Howard Boulevard are the Town's major connectors
to U.S. 70. In 1986, Howard Boulevard was widened and the Town
desires to upgrade Chatham Street. The Town has adequate streets
and no problems are viewed in the near future.
The Town has three athletic fields in addition to tennis
courts and a town park. The county also has a recreation
program.
5

3) Medical, Social, Health, and Solid Waste Disposal Se_rvic_es_-
All of these services are provided privately and on the county
level. The county has two hospitals with a, total of 196 beds.
In the Town, there is a small medical clinic and a dentist.
4) Police and Fire Protection - The Town has four policemen.
There are no immediate, plans to add to this staff. Newport has a
fire district that extends four miles outside of the town limits.
This also includes rescue services.
F) Future Development
The Town of Newport will develop in relation to its site and
situation, its physical and community constraints, its projected
economy and population, and its community spirit. It is expected
that the population in the year 2000, only 9 years away, will be
3,268 people which represents an increase of 74% since 1980. In
order for the Town to meet this population projection, it must
prepare the way using the Town planning process. Land use
planning, in particular, will be the major thrust of the planning
effort. The Town will need approximately 343 acres for growth by
the year 2000 with only 551 acres of open space presently
available. But, the Town must not allow scattered development in
its surrounding area because that type of development can become -
a tax burden on the local population. Future growth must be in a
controlled and predictable manner.
III:) NEWPORT ISSUES, POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION
The land use issues of Newport can be influenced through
strategies or policies. This provides a basic approach and a
guide for solving land use issues before they materialize or
become unsolvable. At the center of policy formulation is the
Town planning effort. The Town Planning Board has the.necessary
resources to be the major source of data and information which is
essential in determining issues and policies. Further, it is
equally important to solicit public views on issues and related
policies. The planning process allows this to occur most
effectively. The formulation of policies, herein, is based on
an open process of consultation, negotiation and compromise.
The land use policies are divided into five categories:
A) resource protection
B) resource production
C) economic development
D) public participation
E) hazard mitigation
rn

A) Resource Protection
1) Soils and Ground Water Resources
a) Issue: The soils in Newport tend to limit the use of
septic tank absorption fields although this is not a problem
where sewer and water services are located. In other areas
`. soils may cause problems for development, and sewer and water
services may be required. The soils may also have engineering
limitations. Newport must have a safe and ample water supply.
The Town desires to protect ground water since this is where
it gets its water supply. Ground water can be contaminated
by leaching of toxicants through the soil, landfills, buried
gasoline and oil tanks, dry cleaners, malfunctioning septic
systems, and by other means. Once a ground water resource is
contaminated, it is almost impossible to use safely.
b) Policy: It is the policy of the Town of
Newport to use soils as a basis for guiding land development and
to protect its ground water resources.
C) Implementation:
i) To use the Carteret County Soil Survey when devising
Town plans.
ii) To extend water and sewer services where poor soil
conditions exist if development is proposed.
iii) To discourage development where soils are unsuitable
by using the Town's Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision
Regulations.
iv) To encourage abandoned gasoline and.oil tanks to be
pumped dry and filled with sand.
v) To continue to keep water and sewer services in good
working order.
vi) To support the N.C.,Division of Environmental
Managemental in the protection of water quality and
the regulation of effluents.
vii) To support federal, state and county health
agencies for the protection of water supplies and
regulation effluents.
,, viii) To deny any future landfill, hazardous, or toxic
waste dumps within the Town's jurisdiction.
2) Surface _Water _Resources and Flood Protection
a) Issue: Although the Town does not obtain its
drinking water directly from surface waters, they recharge the
aquifers where the Town does get its drinking water. Surface
waters are a source for recreation, wildlife habitats,
vegetation, and many other important uses. Numerous land uses
can affect surface water quality. They can be agricultural,
residential, and industrial uses, all of which produce pollutants
7

that are harmful to surface waters such as: heavy metals from
automobile exhaust which washes off the roads, sediments from
erosion and runoff, nutrients from fertilizers, bacteria from
malfunctioning septic systems, and toxic chemicals from
pesticides. The surface waters in the Town are also the source
of flood waters, which can be harmful to the Town.
b) Policy: The Town's policy is to reduce the
degradation of surface waters in the area and to protect itself
from the damage of floods and to prevent development in floodable
areas.
c) Implementation:
i) To support the N.C. Sedimentation Control Act.
ii) To support the Soil and Water Conservation
District Plan.
iii) To require drainage plans in subdivision
regulations.
iv) To mitigate natural hazards
v) To coordinate use of the Carteret County Emergency
Management Office and the Disaster Relief and
Assistance Plan.
vi) To continue to participate in the National Flood
Insurance Program.
vii) To control development in floodable areas with the
Zoning Ordinance and to have a continuous,
coordinated and comprehensive planning process.
3) Fr_a_gi 1 e_Areas, Public _Tr_ust Waters and Forest and
Cultural Resources _ J �+
a) Issue: National and Cultural Resources are
very valuable community assets that require protection.
Resources such as forest, fragile areas, archeological and.
historic sites, and adjacent waters are part of our heritage and
help to retain the culture of the area. Forested areas like the
Croatan NationalForest are important for buffering conflicting
land uses and to allow for a pleasant environment.. In addition
to the above are.the wetlands, Public Trust waters, and swamp
forests. Wetlands, swamp forests, rivers, and creeks play a
vital role in the life cycle of many plants and animals. These
areas are easily damaged by pollution and development. The
location of these areas in the Town is mainly along the Newport
River and its tributaries. Public Trust Waters, such as the
Newport River, are important for recreation, navigation, and
aesthetic value. The value of the above resources is recognized
by the Town and it desires that these areas be protected. The
Town recognizes the Croatan National Forest as a valuable natural
resource. The Croatan Pocosin, which is in the forest, has been
designated a fragile area in the "1985 Carteret County Land. -Use
Plan" and as a "natural area of national and state significance"
M

by the N.C. Natural Heritage Program. The area is owned by the
U.S. Government and managed by the U.S. Forest Service which has
proposed it as a "Wilderness - Rare II area". This would make it
part of the National Wilderness System (see Carteret County Land
Use Plan). There is very little the Town can do to regulate any
activity in this area since it is owned by the U.S. Government.
The Town still feels it is important that the area be protected
and preserved since it is an important recreational, educational,
and natural resource area.
b) Policy: The Town's policies on these
resources are as follows:
i) To preserve its forested land for recreational
and aesthetic purposes.
ii) To protect and preserve its wetlands, Public
Trust, and swamp forests. Appropriate land uses in these areas
are those which are consistent with the standards of CAMA: 15
NCAC 7H and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for 404 and Section
10 Permitting Areas. These land uses are usually those that are
water dependent such as, fishing piers, docks, or utility
easements.
iii) To see that the Croatan National Forest is
protected and kept in its natural state.
c) Implementation:
1) To require a.specified amount of open space in the
Subdivision Regulations.
ii) To have areas which have certain physical
constraints to be zoned for low to very low density
residential, rural uses or conservation.
iii) To coordinate with federal and state agencies in
their protection of wetlands, Public Trust and swamp
forests.
iv) To classify coastal wetland and swamp forests as
conservation on the Land Classification Map.'
v) To zone coastal wetlands and swamp forest
areas for conservation.
vi)'To require a conservation zone to buffer
development from the water.
vii) To support regulations restricting development
in or near Public Trust Waters.

ix) To coordinate with and support all agencies for
protective management of the Croatan National
Forest.
B) Resource Production and Management
1) Town Environment
a) Issue: While Newport is a small town with potential for
growth, it must be careful to have a positive impact on its
environment.
b) Policy: It is the policy of the Town to keep its small
town atmosphere and use its resources to maintain a pleasing
environment.
c) Implementation:
i) To continue to utilize the Zoning Ordinance and
Subdivision Regulations as tools to regulate
development.
ii) To be sure that proper services such as
utilities and drainage can be provided to newly
developed areas.
iii) To support the N.C. Sedimentation Control Act.
iv) To utilize the Carteret County Soil Survey and
the Soil Conservation Service in the development of
areas with problem soils.
2) Recreation Resources and Shoreline Access
a) Issue: The Town recognizes the importance of
recreation in the community and believes that it
should continue.
b) Policy: It is the policy of the Town to
encourage a successful recreation program.
c) Implementation: To coordinate with and
support the county's programs.
3) Agricultural and Mineral Resources
a) Issue: Although there is not a significant
amount of farmland in the Town,' there is in its ETJ. These are
productive areas and at the same time gives the Town some open
space around it. There are also locations in the ETJ that have
potential for mining and quarrying. The Town is concerned about
the environmental impact of these activities.
10

j
b) Policy: The Town's policy is to protect and
reserve prime farmland and to deny mining and quarrying in its
jurisdiction.
c) Implementation:
i) To zone applicable areas in the ETJ area
for agricultural uses.
ii) To discourage development on prime farmland.
iii) To utilize the "Carteret County Soil Survey"
the Soil Conservation Service, and the
Agricultural Extension Office to help employ
the best management practices possible.
iv) To prohibit mining and quarrying in the
update of the Town's Zoning Ordinance.
v) To oppose mining and quarrying activities
near the Town.
4) Flood Prevention and Fishing Resources Protection
a) Issue: The area along the Newport River and
its tributaries are subject to flooding. It is important that
people be aware of the flood zone and that development be held to
a minimum. The Newport River and its tributaries are also
important for commercial and recreational fishing activities. In
order to protect these activities their habitats need to be
preserved.
b) Policy: The Town discourages development in
the flood zone and it desires to protect fish habitats by
improving the water quality of the area.
c) Implementation:
i) To zone areas in the floodway for
conservation or recreation.
ii) To require structures built in the
designated flood zone to be flood proof.
iii) To continue participation in the National
Flood Insurance Program.
iv) To support the Carteret County Soil and
Water Conservation District.
v) To support the best management practices
of the Soil Conservation District.
vi) To study the storm water drainage problem
11

vii) To support and comply with local, state,
and federal efforts to improve the
commercial and recreational fisheries.
C) Economic and Community Development
1) Town Setting
a) Issue: The Town is primarily a residential
community between two growth areas. It wishes
to allow some commercial and industrial
development without disrupting its small town
and friendly character.
b) Policy: It will be the Town's policy to guide
growth so it can continue primarily as a
residential community.
c) Implementation:
i) To have the Town's land protected for
residential development.
ii) To provide services conducive to
residential development.
2) Town Services
a) Issue: Since the Town desires to grow, it
recognizes the need to have adequate services
and a policy to accommodate this growth.
b) Policy: It is the policy of the Town to
provide Town services in a planned and con-
trolled manner.
c) Implementation:
i) To continue to keep the Town's utilities
operating efficiently and effectively.
ii) To have areas adequately zoned for con-
trolled development.
3) Town Appearance
a) Issue: The Town desires to improve its good
• appearance.
b) Policy: Newport's policy is to allow new
development to improve its good appearance.
12

c) Implementation:
i) To establish a beautification committee for
the purpose of improving the town's
appearance.
ii) To remove or improve unsightly structures.
iii) To strictly enforce building and housing
codes.
iv) To demolish and remove dilapidated and
abandoned structures.
v) To encourage the merchants to organize a
commercial district committee. -
vi) To enact a town landscape and architecture
ordinance.
4) Commercial Development
a) Issue: The Town desires some attractive and
properly located commercial development.
b) Policy: The Town will promote orderly
commercial development.
c) Implementation:
i) To provide an adequate amount of land zoned
for commercial development.
ii) To support the organization of a Chamber of
Commerce or similar group for the purpose of
attracting businesses to locate in the Town.
iii) To establish a viable and centrally located
commercial district.
5) Industrial Growth
a) Issue: The Town desires some industrial growth
as long as it is not offensive to the community.
b) Policy: Clean, quiet, financially sound
industries are encouraged to locate in the Town
as long as they do not adversely affect the
surrounding land.
13

c) Implementation:
i) To seek additional industries for the Town.
ii) To zone land for industrial development in
areas where it would not adversely affect
surrounding land uses.
iii) To provide adequate services and utilities to
industries as required.
6) Siting of_Industrial Land Use
a) Issue: Some of the industries are .adjacent to
residential areas and tend to affect adjacent
land uses adversely. The Town would like to
correct this situation and prevent such from
occurring in the future.
b) Policy: The policy of the Town isto require
industries to locate in properly zoned areas so
they will not disturb surrounding land uses.
c) Implementation:
i) To request existing industries that border
residential areas to designate and develop a
buffer area which consists of natural screening.'
ii) To require future industries to locate in
properly zoned areas and to have performance
standards for those.areas.
7) Strip Development
a) Issuer Strip development has occurred in
residential areas. This decreases the capacity
of the roads and increases the accident
potential.
b) Policy: The policy of the Town is to control and
discourage strip development in residential
areas.
c) Implementation:
- i) To establish zones that would prevent land
uses that generate large amounts of traffic.
ii) To require large set backs and control the.
number and location of ingress/egress points.
iii) To require adequate off street parking.
14

B) Multi -Family Housing
a) Issuer With the high cost of housing, many
people are resorting to multi -family units in
which to live. This creates a high demand for this
type of housing.
b) Policy: The Town encourages the construction of
multi -family housing as long as it does not have
an adverse impact on the Town's resources and is
properly integrated with the surrounding uses.
c) Implementation:
i) To have areas properly zoned for multi -family
units
ii) To require adequate space for parking and
recreation..
iii) To allow for aesthetically pleasing multi-
family units.
9) Mobile Home Development
a) Issue: The. Town wishes to control mobile home
development within its jurisdiction.
b) Policy: Future mobile home development shall be
accomplished in an organized manner.
c) Implementation:
i) To develop a mobile home ordinance that would
regulate the appearance, placement, and location
of mobile homes.
10) Annexation
a) Issue: Newport is close to Morehead City which
is a growing community. There island between
the two towns that is developed and could be
considered for annexation. There is also land
west of the Town that could possibly be annexed.
b) Policy: Newport's policy will be to take steps
towards annexing in an easterly and westerly
direction.
c) Implementation:
i) To conduct an annexation study.
15

11) Energy FacilitySiting
a) Issue: :The siting of an energy facility in or
near the Town can create a negative impact.
r b) Policy: The Town does not desire the siting of
a large energy facility in its jurisdiction.
c) Implementation:
i) To prohibit through the Zoning Ordinance,
the siting of a large energy facility in the
Town and its ETJ.
12) Commitment to State and Federal Programs
a) Issue: The Town has a commitment to support
state and federal programs.
b) Policy: The Town supports all appropriate land
use programs and desires to work with the state
and federal agencies on community and economic
development projects.
c) Implementation:
i) To coordinate the Town's efforts for
improvement with all organizations where
applicable.
13) Shoreline Development
a) Issue: Shoreline development and bulkheading
activities cause accelerated erosion along the
shorelines and can add to the pollution of the
waters. Not all shoreline areas should be
developed, but can be used for public access to
the public waters or to preserve their, aesthetic
qualities.
b) Policy:. It will be the policy of the Town to
protect the shoreline from development that
could be harmful to the water quality, but have
some.areas for public water access.
c) Implementation:
i) To establish a shoreline zone which would
require adequate setbacks and buffers to protect'
the water from runoff and sediments.
ii) To restrict land uses that would degrade the
water.
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iii) To work with all agencies with expertise in
conservation.
D) Public Participation Policy
The regular Planning Board meetings and the three
public hearing held during the formulation of this Land Use
Plan produced good public input. The meetings were not well
attended but in small towns there is a more informal type of
citizen participation than in more populated places. People in
small towns know this. But to have a successful land use
planning process, which includes successful economic development,
citizen input is essential. It has been known for many years that
there is a direct relationship between successful planning and
development and citizen participation. In other words, as
citizen participation increases, planned growth increases also.
Citizen participation should be improved in the Town of Newport.
We have fought hard to gain and maintain a
representational form of government in the United States at all
levels. In the planning process, citizen involvement is
mandatory. Historically, citizens have been a part of planning
and development. Not only are government officials and agencies
ineffective without citizen participation, but the planning
process would tend to malfunction as well. Usually, citizens
desire to participate if an immediate problem needs to be solved.
At other times they become involved only if officials or agencies
are not doing what they think they should.
Citizen involvement is a valuable part of the
decision making process at all levels of government The
rationale being that citizen participation: 1) influences
government decisions, 2) maintains stability in society, 3.)
supports and advises officials, 4) guards the'public interest,
and 5) reduces alienation between the people and the government.
It is the policy of Newport to hold .to these statements regarding
citizen involvement in governmental affairs, particularly in the
planning process.
E) Hazard Mitigation Policies
All land use updates are required to mitigate and -
plan for storm hazards. Storm hazards are far more serious than
commonly perceived, but previous storms are very, vivid in the
minds of many older coastal residents. In order to effectively
plan for storm hazards and their periodic reoccurrence, a
comprehensive approach is necessary. This involves combined
efforts of the local Planning Board, the fire/rescue, law
enforcement and the Carteret County Emergency Management
Coordinator in the Emergency Operation Center.
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r,
In general, mitigation and long-term recovery
require the efforts of the Town planning process. Existing
Newport policies allow development to occur in hazard areas. It
is expected the development within hazard areas might occur in
the future. If development is to occur in these areas, it should
be safe development.
Where and what kind of development should occur in
Newport, and how this development should be constructed so as to
minimize damage in the event of a major storm are the two issues
facing those that'formulate policies and regulations in Newport.
It is the policy of Newport to mitigate storm
hazards by adopting the following measures in the next five
years.
1) Newport Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance - This ordinance
should be designed to meet the National Flood Insurance Program.
The ordinance should also be designed to minimize flood damage by
referring to accepted practices,and methods that would set forth
uniform rules for developers:
z) ivewport nazara Area xeaeveiopment roiicy - inis policy is
related to the Building Code and the Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance. The policy is to indicate that reconstruction after a
storm be subject to the regulations of the building code, which
should state that if any building damaged in excess of fifty
percent of its physical value will conform with the code
requirements for new buildings when repaired. Also, in the flood
damage prevention -ordinance it should require that all existing
structures must comply with requirements related to the 100-year
flood elevation, with the code requirements for new buildings
when repaired. Also, in the flood damage prevention ordinance it
should require that all existing structures must comply with
requirements related to the 100-year flood elevation, which is if
any repair, reconstruction, or improvement of a structure is
equal to or exceeds sixty-five percent of the market value, the
improvement or repair must follow the building code regulations.
IV) THE LAND USE PLAN
The information for this update has been
collected and analyzed, the issues have been listed and studied,
the policies have been formulated, and the implementation for the
policies have been stated. The final task of this update is to
devise a land classification map. With this map, the future is
brought into the present by assigning different land uses to
certain areas. This distribution of the land uses reflect the
population distribution, economic trends, existing land use,
soils and other natural resources, community services, storm
hazards, and other town plans.
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A) Land Classification
This sketch level land use plan uses a land
classification system recommended in the Land Use Planning
Guidelines (15 NCAC 7B). The land use categories are: 1)
developed, 2) transition, 3) rural, and 4) conservation (see
the LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP)
1) Developed Areas - The developed areas in the land
use plan correspond to the existing incorporated area and where
urbanization has continued beyond the town limits. This amounts
to 17 percent of the Town and its ETJ area. Developed areas
include residential, commercial, industrial, and large parcels
related to institutional and recreational land uses. Some of
these uses have encroached into flood prone areas and are not
included in the percentage above. There is a considerable amount
of land available for additional development. Most of the
developed areas have the urban services expected for growth.
But, the Town must plan to solidify their infrastructure and to
fill in the open space available for development.
2) Transition Areas - The transition areas in the land
use plan are bordering the developed areas of the Town. These
areas constitute 26 percent of the Town and its ETJ area. The
transition areas also have land available for development. The
areas located along the highways leading into Newport are
expected to be sufficient to handle increased commercial growth..
And along the railroad there is sufficient land for increased
industrial growth: The land away from the highways and railroads
will be suitable for additional residential development.
3) Rural Areas - The rural areas correspond to the
existing rural land uses, which are usually located between the
poorly drained soils and on the most productive upland soils.
These areas amount, to only 21 percent of the Town and ETJ areas.
There is a tendency to change rural land uses in favor of urban
development. Through careful implementation of sound planning
practices this type of change has been controlled to allow a
subtle and gradual transition toward urbanization.
4) Conservation Areas - The conservation areas are in
the Town's most poorly drained and flood prone areas which are
located along its water courses which also includes the Newport
River, its tributaries and inland lakes. These parcels of
land generally have critical habitats or are areas of
• environmental concern and are set aside because of their natural
characteristics and their long lasting contribution to the
citizens of the community. They can be considered greenways or
buffers which allow a separation of land uses without a
conflicting.use between them. Consequently, they are to be
protected or managed so that they will remain essentially
unaltered for generations to come. Any development allowed
should be strictly controlled and be restricted to improvements
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L
which provide for the common good or are water dependent
activities. Future improvements made to the land within this
classification will conform to the guidelines set forth to
protect such areas and be closely monitored to ensure that the
protection of these fragile zones will be maintained.
B) Relationship of Policies and Land Use Categories
There are twenty-two policies generated in the land use
plan. Of the policies there are twenty which deal with resources
protection, resources production and economic development.
1) Resources Protection as Related to Land Use - The
policies related to resources protection are
formulated to aid in managing and conserving our
natural heritage. By protecting our natural
resources and prime farmland, the Town assures
improved water quality in the environment and the
best possible management of the resources.
2) Resources Production Policies as Related to Land
Use - The policies related to resources production
are formulated to aid in improving the quality of
surface water and ground water in the Town. Water
draining the land, no matter what its use, is
commonly.of poor quality. By improving storm
runoff, water and sewer lines, and improving legis-
lation, resources production will improve with
respect to fishing, farming and forestry.
3) Economic and Community Development as Related to
Land Use - The policies related to economic
development are formulated to aid in improving the
social and economic well being of the Town and its
citizens. Implementation of the policy guidelines
set forth herein in future planning efforts should
assist in revitalizing the Town, improving its
character, protecting its citizens from storms and
other natural disasters, increase citizen partici-
pation, and in general, improve the quality of life
for the citizens of Newport. This document sets
forth general policy guidelines. It embodies the
long range goals or the Town of Newport and will
provide guidance when decisions concerning specific
issues must be made. It will take a joint effort
involving the citizens and the governing body of
the Town to implement this document in planning the
future of Newport._
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1
i V) AMENDING THE PLAN
Special circumstances sometimes require a change in the
land use plan. A certain policy or land classification may need
to be amended to suit a particular situation in the Town. The
change may be accomplished by a single resolution or in parts by
successive resolutions. To change all or some part of the land
use plan, the amendment process must be in accordance with a
series of procedures. These include a local public hearing, a
notice to the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) and approval by
the CRC.
VI) WHAT TO DO WITH THE PLAN
The successful completion of the land use sketch plan
does not occur with its adoption. The sketch plan is merely the
beginning. In order to effectuate the plan and implement its
policies a considerable amount of work is required. It will
require energetic leadership and a substantial amount of citizen
participation. There are numerous committees, task forces and
civic groups that can be involved to make Town planning happen in
Newport. This involvement will create a movement toward growth
management and continued planning activities. It must be
realized that the involvement must be well orchestrated if
Newport wishes to protect itself from haphazard and very costly
unplanned growth.
The working organizations at the state and county
levels of government can help to provide plans, guidelines,
legislation and other planning and growth management tools to aid
in achieving a fully operational planning process and community
involvement. But, it is the local effort that will put it all
together and make things happen. Consequently, it is important
to seek out those citizens that will help put Newport into the
21st century.
To implement the Resources Protection Policies will
require continuous support by the Town. The protection of
resources comes primarily from federal and state legislation which
establishes minimum levels. There must be more of a local
understanding and commitment to establish higher levels of
protection for our valuable natural resources and our precious
historical and archeological resources. Each citizen must
participate in this effort. This includes citizen awareness and
involvement as well as adequate Town ordinances and enforcement.
Citizen's committees and active citizen participation are needed
to assist the governing body to improve the Town's Zoning
Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations.
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The Resources Production and Management Policies also
require continuous support and local ordinance enforcement. The
local commitment should include an individual citizen effort to
properly apply the best management practices so that our
resources will continue to produce without adversely affecting
the total environment.
Most of the policies in this plan are related to
economic and community development. Because Newport is located
between two growth areas, it is particularly important to
implement these policies. The updating of existing Town
ordinances is important, but additional regulations may be needed
to adapt to the changing desires of the Town and its population
and to protect the community and its economy from outside
influences. Citizen involvement as indicated in the Public
Participation section of this plan should be followed.
The Planning Board should prioritize the implementation
tasks presented in this plan. Then, the Planning Board can begin
its work toward plan achievement. The time to start is now, and
all citizens should be involved.
To fully realize the importance of the planning process
will take years. This Land Use Plan must be used to guide
Newport's future. It also means the willingness to work for the
common good in an organized manner. In five years an accessment
of how successful the Town of Newport has been will be made'.
Will the citizens 'of Newport be better off then, than now?
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