CAMA Land Use Plan-1981

TOWN OF
WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
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A T L A N T I C
NORTH CAROLINA
EXISTING LPfm USE
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1975
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NOI1Jf aoHINl
Future Populations and The Costs of Growth
Unless the Town and property owners are willing to incur an
increase in taxes that would inevitably result if all growth were
prohibited through unreasonable and unlawful land use restric-
tions, then some portion of this growth must be accommodat-
ed. The central issue is: How much growth can, and should, the
Town absorb and still maintain the way of life and character of
the Town the citizens desire. If it is assumed that developments
currently in the planning stages are completed within the next 10
years, that there are no significant changes in zoning controls,
and growth pressures from the region and county continue to
increase, then there is a good probability that past increases in
population will continue for the next 10 years. This would result
in a population increase of 1,490 persons by the year 1985 and a
permanent population of 4,011. The question is, will this
population increase impose fiscal and environmental costs so
great that the quality of life will significantly deteriorate for all
residents. Given the number of vacant lots, low occupancy rates
and planned capacity at existing facilities, this growth can readily
be accommodated. However, as a tourist attraction, the Town
must provide facilities for a considerably larger population than
the estimated 4,011. This total population that must be planned
for consists of not only permanent residents, but also day and
overnight tourists, as well as summer residents. As many as
12,447 day visitors, 6,566 overnight visitors, and 3,391 summer
residents may be on the beach during a peak weekend. Thus,
the "planning population" may reach 24,825 persons —nearly 10
times the size of the permanent population. Because of parking
limitations and zoning controls, it is not anticipated that the
tourist or summer resident population will increase significantly
during the next 10 years. To provide the necessary facilities,
expansion of both the water and sewer systems are being
planned with funding assistance anticipated from federal
sources. However, if such assistance is not forthcoming, as may
be the case in expansion of the sewage disposal plant, then the
Town must decide if it wishes to accept this increase with
possible increased costs to taxpayers. This is one of the issues
the Town must face and resolve during the next 10 years if it is
to maintain the desired way of life. In addition to this issue, the
Wrightsville Planning Board was asked to identify other major
issues that would confront the Town and require policy direc-
tion.
Land Use Issues
The Planning Board felt that the most significant issue was the
adverse effects that result from overcrowding and congestion
caused by visitors during the summer months. While the
inevitable litter, traffic, and invasion of private property are
annoying the most serious effect is on the Town's ability to
provide services and facilities for a large visitor population.
Since the major revenue source for financing these services and
facilities is the property tax the major burden falls on the
property owner and not on the person who receives the benefit
of Town services and facilities. The second major issue identi-
fied by the Planning Board concerns how and what lands will be
developed in the future. Future development in the Town will
be largely limited to the north end of the island, vacant lots, and
several sites on which development is in the planning states (the
Kenan site, the old Lumina site, and the Surf Club site). The
problem is to assure that these, or other developments, are of a
quality that is consistent with community objectives and poli-
cies. Development of marshland is highly unlikely because of
State and Federal dredge and fill restrictions. The third major
problem facing the Town is how to control erosion —both ocean
side and sound side. Collapse of the berm and dune structure
during a storm or hurricane would inevitably result in extensive
damage to public and private property. Undercutting of resi-
dences on the sound side is already occurring. Provision of
public services and facilities was the last major problem iden-
tified by the Planning Board. This issue is mostly the result of
the large visitor population the Town must support during the
peak months. The basic question is how and what services will
be provided to existing and planned development and to the
various segments of the Town's population.
Objectives and Policies
In identifying these problems the Planning Board did not
intend to provide specific solutions but to isolate problems that
the Town must attempt to solve. However, the solution to any
of these problems will be easier if there is a firm understanding
of what needs to be done and how it is to be carried out.
Objectives, policies, and standards provide the what and how
for the use and development of land. Objectives and policies
must give adequate consideration to the long-range trends that
will affect the Town's growth, the capability of the Town's fiscal
and natural resources to sustain these trends, and whether these
trends and their effects are consistent with the desires of the
citizens, and the goals and standards of the Coastal Area
Management Act. To provide the citizens and officials of
Wrightsville Beach guides for making land use decision, the
following land use objectives and policies were adopted by
the Planning Board.
LAND USE OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND STANDARDS
FOR THE TOWN OF WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
Long Range Objective
To create and maintain, for all citizens of the community,
and within Areas of Environmental Concern for citizens of the
State and Nation, a quality environment that will make a wise
and balanced use of the economic and natural resources of the
Town and thus promote and protect the public health, safety
and welfare.
Policy —To establish a management system, based on ecolo-
gical consideratons, that will provide the necessary information
and guidance to town citizens and officials for making land use
decision.
Ten Year Land Use Objective
To maintain and enhance Wrightsville Beach as a pre-
dominantly low to moderate density, single family residential
community.
Policy —To continuously review existing land use ordinances
and plans and revise or adopt new ordinances and plans as
necessary to insure consistency with the Ten Year Land Use
Objective.
Policy —To encourage only those non-residential land uses
(commercial, industrial, public or institutional) which can and
will generate sufficient tax revenues to pay for the costs of
services required or created by the particular use.
Objective
To maintain and enhance the esthetic and ecological values
inherent in the formation and development of Wrightsville
Beach as a barrier island.
Policy —To guide development into, and permit land use
changes in only those areas where the impact or change will
result in a minimum reduction of values represented by natural
processes, and where such a reduction occurs the use or
development causing the reduction should be permitted only if
superior economic or social values to the Town will be created.
Policy —To protect the dune system and its stabilizing vegeta-
tion by 1) routing the flow of pedistrian traffic to central points
of access to the water and 2) by enforcing, or enacting if
necessary, dune protection ordinances.
Policy —To provide, as may be economically feasible, erosion
control structures and works to protect existing property; and to
guide future development or redevelopment away from those
areas that are susceptible to erosion and may later require
protection.
Objective
To provide reasonable means and opportunity for the public
to have access to the beach, shore or other public trust lands
and waters, provided such means do not conflict with the right
of residents to the use and enjoyment of their property and
residences.
Policy —To develop a fiscal structure that will equitably
allocate the cost of town services and facilities between those
segments of the population receiving the benefit of these
services and facilities and those segments of the population
paying for the services and facilities.
In order to achieve these objectives and implement these
policies, the following targets are set for the coming years.
Some of these may be accomplished within the next two years
but some may require longer periods of time and should be
continuously reevaluated to determine the feasibility of pur-
suing them.
GOVERNMENTAL EFFICIENCY —Evaluate the adequacy of
town services, the people paid to provide them, and con-
sider changes designed to improve services and control costs.
REVENUE SOURCES —Study and evaluate alternatives to the
property tax as a method of providing revenue; evaluate rate
schedules for all services to correct inequities.
TAX INEQUITIES —Analyze taxes paid to county to determine
methods of correcting inequities, particularly as related to
retired persons.
EROSION CONTROL —Continue efforts to secure funding for
the Navigation and Shore Protection Project and to establish an
erosion control line for sound and channel front property
owners.
WATER AND SEWER PROJECTS—Contnue efforts to expand
and improve the wastewater treatment plant; review status of
pipeline project and anaylze the condition and capacity of the
well system —prepare alternative project for reservoir and treat-
ment facility.
SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL —Complete analysis of alternative
systems, determine methods of implementation and seek fund-
ing sources.
DEVELOPMENT REGULATION CONSOLIDATION —Review
and consolidate present regulatory ordinances, regarding water,
sewer, streets, storm drainage and building code.
PUBLIC SAFETY —Review law enforcement related problems
and devise new methods that will relate solution of the prob-
lems to the persons paying for enforcement.
PARK DEVELOPMENT —Continue the development of the
recreation park and evaluate the community needs for beau-
tification, open space, and bikeways.
Land Use Standards
Land use standards are intended to provide more specific
guides to Town citizens and officials in making land use
decisions. Many standards are already in effect in the form of
zoning and subdivision ordinances and other development or
environmental regulations. It is not necessary or feasible to
restate these standards but only to recognize that they must be
consistent with the Ten Year Land Use Objective and revised
accordingly as required by the implementing policy. However,
two other forms of standards should be considered —general
standards for assessing the impact of any proposed land use,
and standards for development within Areas of Environmental
Concern.
General Standards for Assessing Project Impact —In evalu-
ating the impact of a proposed land use, the Town will
consider the following standards:
1) the extent of the impact on the Town's fiscal and eco-
nomic resources as shown in the Project Impact Analysis.
2) Significant adverse effect, fiscal or environmental, and
measures proposed to reduce or eliminate these effects,
3) whether or not the proposed use is consistent with the
Town's long range land use objectives,
4) irreversible changes that would occur if the use were
allowed.
Land Classification Map
These objectives and policies are intended to provide a
general written description of what kind of community citizens
want the Town to be and how this goal can be reached. They are
not intended to be highly specific with regard to individual
pieces of property but should give a sense of direction for future
growth. How this future growth might look if these objectives
and policies are followed is shown on the land classification
map. The land classification map is not a map of land use
controls, but is a graphic description of the Town's land use
objectives and policies and which areas of the Town may need
services and facilities in the future. The major types of areas
that are expected to change in the future are existing planned
developments, vacant lots, and existing developed areas be-
cause of increased occupancy rates.
Review -Summary -Recommendations
Land use planning is a continuous process and changing
economic and environmental conditions will require that its
policies be periodically reviewed to assure that they are still
consistent with the desires of the citizens. New recommenda-
tions should be made as necessary to reflect changes or to
continue present efforts. The plan is not intended to provide
detailed solutions to all land use problems confronting the
Town; neither was it supposed to supply a map or other exact
description of how the Town should look 10, 20, or 50 years in
the future. Its major practical purpose was to continue and
expand upon the planning process begun in 1970. This was
accomplished by reexaming population and land use trends,
soliciting citizen opinion, and using these factors as a base
establish broad but widely acceptable statements of policies
and goals for future development. These statements should
provide the guidance for the work of devising legally and
fiscally acceptable solutions to specific problems. The following
recommendations are made to continue this process and imple-
ment the objectives and policies of the land use plan.
1. Ordinance Review —All development and land use ordi-
nances should be reviewed to determine if they are con-
sistent with the land use objectives and policies. Particular
attention should be given to the zoning ordinance to
assess whether full development of permissible uses will
result in undesirable densities or land use patterns.
2. Study Feasibility of Architectural Review Board —in order
to enhance and maintain the visual quality of the beaches
man made environment the Planning Board should study
and make recommendations on the feasibility of estab-
lishing a method, such as architectural review board or
community appearance commission, to assure esthetic
continuity and quality in building design and appearance.
3. Consolidation of Development Regulations —Subdivision
and zoning ordinances, and the Town construction codes
should be consolidated to provide ease of interpretation to
users, and as may be possible, to be consistent with other
beach communities.
4. Evaluate Revenue Sources —The existing and future ef-
fectiveness of revenue sources should be evaluated and
new sources of revenue considered as necessary to relieve
taxing inequities.
5. Continue Erosion Control Efforts —Efforts should be con-
tinued to secure available assistance for dune and berm
restoration projects. Work should be continued to estab-
lish a common bulkhead line and if legislation is requir-
ed appropriate action should be taken for it introduction.
6. Analysis of Tax Inequities and Cost of Sevice—The amount
of county taxes paid by Town citizens should be com-
pared with the services received by property owners and
the services provided to non -property owning beach users.
7. Complete Extraterritorial Zoning —The effort initiated to
exercise zoning powers in the extraterritorial area should
be completed.
8. Encourage County to Exercise Consistent Zoning in the
Remaining Areas of the Beach that are Outside the town
Limits —The Wilmington -New Hanover Planning Board
should be encouraged to zone the northern tip of the
beach that lies outside the Town's extraterritorial area
consistent with the adjoining lands and with the Areas of
Environmental Concern proposed by the Coastal Re-
sources Commission.
9. Access Planning —A pedestrian transportation system
should be designed and implemented that will encourage
proper routing of pedestrians away from private property
and dunes and to public points of access.
10. Parking and Transit Planning —The feasibility of establish-
ing joint Town -County parking facilities with transit serv-
ice to the beach should be evaluated.
In summary, the Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan is a begin-
ning of the conscious and rational management of its future
growth and development —but a management that recognizes
and takes into account the desires of its citizens, the natural
processes of its environment, and its responsibility to present
and future generations of the State and Nation.
Areas of Environmental Concern
One of the unique features of the Coastal Area Management
Act is the Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's). AEC's are
areas that are of such high value and possess such irreplaceable
characteristics that regulation of their development will be the
responsibility of both the Town and the Coastal Resources
Commission. Examples of such areas that may be found within
the Town's planning area are ocean beaches and shorelines,
marshes, estuarine waters, highly erosive areas, and areas
subject to public trust rights. Generally, development in these
areas must not in any way endanger the ecological values or
unique characteristics that make them of more than local
concern. While most of these areas are already severely restric-
ted in the types of development that can take place under
existing Federal and State laws, the land use controls and
policies of the Town provide additional protection. The follow-
ing paragraphs describe some of the appropriate land uses and
development standards for potential AEC's:
Coastal wetlands —should receive highest priority for their
preservation, and all development which will alter their
natural function will be prohibited.
Complex natural areas —should be preserved so as to safe-
guard their educational and scientific value, and thus access
should be limited.
Areas that sustain remnant species —habitat conditions
should be maintained so as to protect the endangered spe-
cies, and development which might jeopardize these condi-
tions should be prohibited.
Public trust areas —these are areas in which the public has
vested rights, and no development or land uses should be
permitted which restrict or endanger this right, such as ocean
beaches and shorelines.
Natural hazard areas —these areas, such as ocean or estuarine
erosive areas, inlet lands and coastal flood plains, should be
protected from development that may eventually require
public money to subsidize their protection or loss because of
destruction from natural forces.
Estuarine waters —all the waters of the sound and ocean and
should be preserved to protect their esthetic quality and bio-
logical productivity.
Sand dunes —should only be developed so that their pro-
tective features are maintained.
Standards for Development Within Areas of Environmental
Concern
The State Guidelines for Local Planning establish develop-
ment policies and standards for appropriate land uses within
proposed AEC's. When final AEC's are designated and standards
for development within these areas promulgated, the Town of
Wrightsville Beach will fully cooperate with the Coastal Re-
sources Commission in the enforcement of these standards and
will revise its policies and ordinances as is necessary to insure
this cooperation.
This report was financed in part by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, the Coastal Plains Regional Commission, and the State of North
Carolina; and meets the requirements of the North Carolina Coastal Area
Management Act of 1974.

TOWN OF WRIGHTSVILLE, BEACH'
COASTAL AREA MANAGEMENT ACT
LAND USE PLAN
FEBRUARY, 1981
PROPERTY OF
DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE
JOHN J 1400TON AND ASSOCIATES
WILMINOTONe NC

91
TOWN OF WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
COASTAL AREA MANAGEMENT ACT
LAND USE PLAN
ADOPTED FEBRUARY 12, 1981
By the Wrightsville Beach Board of Alderman
Mayor Robert W. Sawyer
Francis L. Russ
Roger P. Hill
Corneille C. Sineath
Eugene N. Floyd
This plan was financed in part with grants from the U.S. Department.
of Commerce - Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the North
Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Community Development..
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
John Nesbitt, Director of Land Development
and Building Inspections
Hugh Perry, Town Clerk
JOHN J HOOTON AND ASSOCIATES
WILMINGTON, NC

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 HISTORY OF COASTAL PLANNING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2 LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES: FEDERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.3 LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES: NORTH CAROLINA . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.4 PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION - 1974 TO DATE . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.5 LAND USE PLANNING GUIDELINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.6 PURPOSES OF LAND USE PLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.7 PLAN ORGANIZATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.0 DATA
COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. ... 6
2.1
PRESENT CONDITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 6
2.1.1 POPULATION AND ECONOMY . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 6
2.1.2 EXISTING LAND USE . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . 9
2.1.3 CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES AND REGULATIONS . . . .
. . . 12
2.2
CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT: LAND SUITABILITY . . .
. . . 15
2.2.1 PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS: HAZARD AREAS, SOILS,
WATER SUPPLY . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . 15
2.2.2 FRAGILE AREAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 21
' 2.3
CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT: CAPACITY OF
COMMUNITY FACILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 23
2.3.1 WATER AND SEWER - SERVICE AND FACILITIES . . . .
. . . 23
2.3.2 ROADS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 24
2.3.3 SCHOOLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 25
2.3.4 ESTIMATED DEMAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . 25
3.0 POLICIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
3.1 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
3.2 NATURAL RESOURCE POLICIES . . . . . . . . . . ... 34
3.3 DEVELOPMENT POLICIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
4.0 LAND CLASSIFICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
4.1 PURPOSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
- • 4.2 LAND CLASSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
TECHNICAL APPENDICES

1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 HISTORY OF COASTAL PLANNING
North Carolina's coast has historically been related to the growth and
development of all of eastern North Carolina and the entire state. The
first European settlement in North Carolina was located on one of North
Carolina's coastal islands; and from the colonial and revolutionary periods
on, the coastal sounds and rivers have served as ports of entry and major
routes of commerce. As transportation routes moved inland, population
and economic centers did also, and the coastal region did not experience
the same degree of growth as other areas of the state. However, in more
recent years, increases in tourism, second home development and industrial
locations have created a new growth trend in North Carolina, as well as
other coastal states. Recent census data indicates that more than half
of the nation's population is within 50 miles of the beach. This trend
led both state and federal governments to the conclusion that if the vast
natural and economic resources represented in the coast were to be managed
wisely, new institutional frameworks were needed. This realization led
directly to the development of a new area of public policy and concern
known generally as coastal planning. Coastal planning and its programs
are most visibly and concretely articulated at the federal level by the
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, and at the state level by the Coastal
Area Management Act of 1974.
1.2 LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES: FEDERAL
The federal effort to promote coastal planning began with the
passage of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (Public Law 92-583).
Its major objective is to encourage coastal states to develop a management
program to guide the public and private use of lands and waters in the
coastal zone. State programs are to be carried out in two phases --one,
development of the management program, and two, actual management of the
program in the sense of administrative and regulatory procedures. North
Carolina's coastal program is now in phase two. The federal act is
administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce which is authorized to.
make grants to coastal states for development and administration of their
program.

1.3 LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES: NORTH CAROLINA
The origins of the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA)
began in the 1969 General Assembly. After enacting the dredge and fill law
(now absorbed into CAMA), the General Assembly directed that a study be
made with a view to the preparation of a plan for the development and con-
servation of the state's coastal resources. At least four drafts of proposed
legislation were prepared, with the final draft introduced in the General
Assembly in March 1973. After five hearings on the coast, days of floor
debates and committee hearings, the act was ratified on April 12, 1974, one
day before the end of the session. CAMA's unique feature is that it is a
joint undertaking between local and state interests. This is accomplished by
giving the authority for planning to local governments and delegating to the
state the responsibility for defining Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's).
Regulation of development within AEC's is a state -local effort. Each local
government within the 20-county coastal area is required to prepare a land
use plan in accord with guidelines prepared by the Coastal Resources Commis-
sion (CRC), a 15 member policy -making body created by the act. After adop-
tion of the plan by the local government and approval by the CRC, no develop-
ment within an AEC will be permitted unless it is consistent with the local
land use plan. The following paragraphs summarize the four major parts of the
act.
PART ONE - ORGANIZATION AND GOALS - This part sets out goals of
the act, defines terms, and establishes the Coastal Resources Commission
and the Coastal Resources Advisory Council. The Advisory Council is a 47
member advisory group that provides technical assistance to the CRC.
Briefly, the goals of CAMA are as follows:
(1) To provide a management system capable of preserving and managing
the natural ecological conditions of the estuarine and barrier
dune system and beaches;
(2) To insure that the development or preservation of coastal lands
and waters is consistent with their capability to absorb change;
(3) To insure the orderly and balanced use and preservation of
coastal resources on behalf of the state and nation;
(4) To establish planning policies and guidelines for the use and
development of coastal lands and waters.
- 2 -

PART TWO - PLANNING PROCESSES - This part requires the CRC to
prepare and adopt guidelines for the preparation of land use plans, which
plans will then serve as guides for the issuance or denial of development
permits within AEC's.
PART THREE - AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN - Part Three requires
the CRC to designate AEC's and establish standards for the land uses which
may occur within these areas. These standards will be used in conjunction
with the land use plans to determine whether or not development will be
permitted in an AEC. AEC's fall within one of the following four
categories --Estuarine System, Ocean Hazard Area, Public Water Supplies,
and Fragile Coastal Natural and Cultural Resource Areas.
PART FOUR - PERMIT LETTING AND ENFORCEMENT - This final part of
CAMA establishes the administrative procedures for enforcement.. Since
March 1, 1978, no development is permitted within an Area of Environmental
Concern without a permit. Local governments may assume authority for
permit letting in AEC's for minor developments, but permit letting authority
for major developments is reserved to the CRC.
1.4 PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION - 1974 TO DATE
North Carolina's Coastal Management Program has focused on meeting the
requirements of CAMA and the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act. Within the
framework of these two statutes, two phases evolved. Phase I is concerned
with planning and Phase II with implementation. In accordance with the
requirements of Part 2 of CAMA, and assisted by grants from the .U.S.
Department of Commerce, local governments (including Wrightsville Beach)
began preparation of their land use plans in January of 1975. Final plans
from all but 2 of the 52 local governments were submitted to the CRC on
May 21, 1976, for review. All of these, including Wrightsville Beach's,
were approved, or approved with conditions. The State Guidelines for
Local Planning under which the plans were prepared required that all plans
be updated every 5 years. One of the major purposes of the present planning
effort is to comply with this requirement. However, since the submission
and approval of the first land use plan in 1976, the guidelines have been
MM

revised to reflect a new emphasis on policy formulation by the local
governments.
1.5 LAND USE PLANNING GUIDELINES
These guidelines are adopted by the CRC and codified in Chapter 15,.
Subchapter 7B, of the North Carolina Administrative Code. Their purpose
is to define a planning process in which local governments will identify
land use problems and issues, collect and analyze data bearing on possible
solutions, develop alternative strategies for resolving the issues, formu-
late policies, and select methods of implementation. The minimum require-
ments of any plan are (1) a summary of data collection and analysis,
(2) an existing land use map, (3) policy discussion, and (4) a land classifi-
cation map. Central to each of these requirements is a citizen participation
program which seeks to involve residents and property owners in each step of
the planning process. The Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan is organized
within this framework.
1.6 PURPOSES OF LAND USE PLAN
The most frequently heard reason for preparing land use plans under
the Coastal Area Management Act is that plans are required by the act and
the failure to prepare a plan will result in the state substituting its
judgment for that of local government. While this remote possibility does
exist, there are better and more practical reasons for preparing a land use
plan. As is true for most local units of government in this country, the
real property tax is the major generator of revenues for financing services
and facilities for the community; and since the amount of the tax is a
function of the market value of the property, the ability of the local
government to provide services and facilities is largely dependent upon
maintaining a strong market value of the land within its jurisdiction.'
Thus, the well-being of the Town's residents will depend in part on how
wisely the land resource is governed, so that values and the underlying tax
base remain strong. This issue is at the center of the major purpose of the
land use planning process --to influence and direct the determinants of land
use change and, thus, of market value, so that the well-being of Town resi-
dents is protected and improved.
- 4 -

n
1.7 PLAN ORGANIZATION
The organization of the plan closely follows the outline suggested by
the state guidelines. First, existing land use, natural resource, and
community facilities data is summarized and analyzed; included in this step
is the preparation of the required existing land use map. Second, land use
issues are identified, alternatives suggested and policies formulated.
Finally, the policies are graphically expressed in the land classification
map. Supplementary information is included in the technical appendices.
- 5 -

2,0 DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
2.1 PRESENT CONDITIONS
2.1.1 POPULATION AND ECONOMY - The population of Wrightsville Beach
that is significant for planning purposes cannot be adequately described
in the usual census figure terms. Not only is the 1970 census 9 years
old, but the total planning population includes many other persons
besides the year-round residents. The total population of Wrightsville
Beach is composed of four subgroups: (1) year-round residents,
(2) property owning summer residents, (3) overnight visitors (i.e.,
non -property owning visitors who stay one or more nights), and (4) day
visitors or persons who visit during the day only. The following
paragraphs analyze each of these populations and provide current
estimates of their total numbers.
YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS - The most acceptable source of year-
round residents is the decennial Bureau of Census count. The last
full census count was conducted in 1970, with an inter-censal estimate
in 1976. The preliminary results of the 1980 census have been com-
pleted, but the final counts will not be available for several months.
The preliminary count found 2,781 permanent residents living at
Wrightsville Beach with 2.2 persons per household. This represents a
63 percent increase over the 1970 count of 1,701 persons and a 10 per-
cent increase over the 1976 inter-censal estimate. Population charac-
teristics relating to age, sex and race are not available but have
probably remained relatively unchanged since 1970. The exception to
this may be in the age distribution figures, because of the trend
toward retirement in beach areas. Further, the increase in costs of
housing at Wrightsville Beach, resulting in prices beyond the reach
of most younger persons, points toward an aging trend in Wrightsville
Beach's permanent population.
The North Carolina Department of Administration has estimated
the 1977 Wrightsville Beach population to be 2,650 persons, or an
increase of 129 persons since the 1976 inter-censal estimate of
2,521. This represents an increase of 5.12 percent. Assuming this
annual increase remained constant until September of 1980, the 1980

year-round resident population would be 3,057 persons. Building per-
mit records indicate an addition of 50 to 60 'dwelling units per year
since 1976. Assuming full occupancy and 3 persons per unit, permit
records would indicate an additional 150 to 180 persons per year.
Since many of these units were townhouses, which are often owned by
non-residents, the lower range of 150 persons per year is a more
reliable estimate. Thus, the range indicated by the Department of
Administration and local building permits is between 128 and 150
persons, or about 140 persons (rounded from 139) per year. Thus, the
total 4 year increase since the 1976 inter-censal estimate would be
560 persons, making the current 1980 year-round resident population
3,081 persons.
If this estimate is correct, the 1980 census undercounted the
permanent population by 300 persons. While there are no evident
reasons to assume an undercount, the higher estimate of 3,081 persons
is based on realistic data available at the local level. Since esti-
mates and projections for planning purposes should be capable of
accommodating maximum populations, the higher estimate of 3,081 persons
is accepted as a working estimate for this plan and is used as the
basis for projecting future populations.
PROPERTY -OWNING SUMMER RESIDENTS - This segment of the population
is composed of those persons who maintain their legal or voting resi-
dence in another area but own property at the beach and usually live
there during the summer months. Based on the rates of water usage
in off-season months and interviews with Town officials, the estimated
number of units used for this purpose is approximately 200. If 4
persons per unit is assumed, this population segment would be approxi
mately 800 persons during the summer months of June, July and•August.
This represents a significant drop from the 1976 estimate, partly
because of a change in estimating methodology, but primarily due to a
decrease in.the number of persons who own property for this purpose.
OVERNIGHT VISITOR POPULATION - An estimate of this population can
be made by multiplying the number of units available for overnight
visitors by the number of persons expected to occupy the unit. The
MM

ten motels available to overnight visitors have a total of 480 units.
Assuming 3 persons per unit, 1,443 persons would be at beach motels
during full occupancy. There are approximately 750 rental units.
available and, assuming 4 persons per unit, 3,000 persons would occupy
these units during full occupancy. Thus, the total overnight visitor
population would be 4,443 persons.
DAY VISITOR POPULATION - The estimate of the day visitor population
in the 1976 land use plan was made, under certain assumptions, from
traffic count information available at the Intracoastal Waterway bridge.
That estimate was about 12,450 visitors for a Saturday or Sunday during
the months of June, July or August. Traffic count information available
since then indicates an average annual rate of increase of about 6 per -
,cent. Assuming a corresponding rate of increase in day visitor popula-
tion, the 1980 day visitor population would be 15,438 for an average
Saturday or Sunday in the months of June, July or August.
ECONOMY - The economy of Wrightsville Beach is best described as
tourist oriented. The majority of residents either are unemployed
retired persons or commute off the beach to their jobs. The three
major non -tourist oriented employers are Town Government, the saline
water research plant operated by the U.S Department of Interior, and.
International Nickel Company. With the exception of a few service
firms (mostly real estate), the remainder of the economy exists to
serve the overnight and day visitor populations. Hotels, motels,
restaurants, lounges, retail establishments, fishing piers, and
miscellaneous specialty shops are the economic base of Wrightsville
Beach's economy. Since most Town residents either.are retired or
commute off the beach to work, the significance of this type of tourist
oriented economy is less for its payroll than for the tax revenues
(sales and property) generated. These revenues help to defray some of
the costs of services and facilities required to accommodate the
large day and overnight visitor populations, thus, to some extent
reducing the tax impact on resident property owners.
M-M

2.1.2 EXISTING LAND USE - The major purpose of the existing land
use survey is to aid local officials and citizens in making decisions
concerning land use policies and changes. The existing survey is
simply an update and comparison with the 1970 and 1975 surveys. Users
should be able to better visualize land use patterns and have a better
understanding of trends that occurred over time. The following table
describes the changes that have occurred since the 1975 survey.
TABLE OF EXISTING LAND USE ACREAGE — CORPORATE LIMITS
URBAN
1975
1980
Residential
185
200
Commercial
25
30
Industrial
1.5
1.5
Governmental and institutional
48
48
Roads
120
121
Recreation
5.7
8.7
Undeveloped
129
109
TOTAL URBAN
515
515
Water
Wetlands
Beaches
TOTAL ALL AREAS
714
714
85
82
174
174
1,488
1,488
% Change
8.0%
20.0
0.0
0.0
0.8
50.0
15.0
0.0
0.0
-3.0
0.0
As can be seen, the majority of development has been single family resi-
dential on scattered lots throughout the Town. The only new "development"
on individual lots is Seapath Estates immediately south of Seapath Towers,
at present consisting of 9 houses in the over-$125,000 to.$200,000 price
range. The remainder of new residential development has been almost .
entirely townhouse developments, the most significant of which are
Channel Walk, Lumina Club, The Moorings, Station One, and The Boardwalk.
These six developments added 72 additional single family units in the
$80,000 to $120,000 price range. New construction or conversion of
duplexes has been limited, with the major addition being the Club
Colony consisting of three duplexes located at the end of Mallard and
Crane Streets. The most significant commercial development is the
-9-

Landing --a 28,000 square foot shopping and office complex located on
the south side of U.S. 74 and just east of the International Nickel
Company. The development occupies approximately 2 1/2 acres. The
only other commercial development is the Pizza Hut located on the
south side of U.S. 76 just east of the Banks Channel Bridge. This is
one phase of the development of the entire tract, consisting of approxi-
mately 3.10 acres. In .the government and institutional categories,
two significant changes have taken place. The first was the addition
of 90 spaces of public parking on South Lumina on 3/4 of an acre of
Town property. The second, and most significant, is the development
of the N.C. Wildlife Resources boating access area adjacent to the
Intracoastal Waterway Bridge. Consisting of about 3 acres, the area
provides 3 boat ramps and parking for approximately 100 cars with
trailers. The development of this ramp for the public required filling
of an almost equal amount of marsh area.
The table of existing land use acreage quantifies an existing
trend well known to all beach residents, that is the conversion of
undeveloped land to residential use. These residential developments
are, as discussed previously, almost solely single family residences,
either detached or townhouses. Some limited commercial development,
about 5 acres, and increased recreational space (the 3 acre boating
access area) has occurred. The 1,488 acres within the Town's
corporate limits account for only 40 percent of the total 3,962 acres
within the Town's jurisdiction. The remaining 2,474 acres lie outside
the Town's corporate limits, but are within the Town's extraterritorial
jurisdiction. All of this area is composed of water, wetlands, beaches
and spoil islands, with none of the area falling within an urban land
use category. Further, there have been no changes in land use within
the extraterritorial area since 1970.
The Coastal Area Management Act Land Use Guidelines require that
particular attention be given to: compatibility and major problems
resulting from unplanned development, an identification of areas likely
to experience land use change, and areas of environmental concern. The
changes in residential, commercial and governmental land use that have
occurred since the 1975 survey have created no compatibility problems,
but a significant trend has been established. This is the trend toward
- 10 -

attached, higher density townhouse development and also toward
increased access and improved facilities for residents and the general
public. The significance of this trend, its consistency with the 1976
land use plan, and the desirability of its continuance will be
discussed under the section on policies.
The most serious compatibility problem has been the increasing con-
flict between residents and visitors, primarily day visitors, that
occurs.because of traffic congestion, as well as associated impacts of
noise, litter and dune damage. However, this is not a problem of
unplanned development; it is an inevitable problem resulting from the
location of Wrightsville Beach in a growing metropolitan area. The
Wrightsville Beach access plan considers this problem and establishes
policies and recommendations for possible solutions. A.second problem,
and one related to development, although not a recent occurrence, is
the vulnerability of several of the homes in the Shell Island develop-
ment, as well as the Holiday Inn, to severe damage in the event of a
serious storm. These structures were located outside of the renour
ishment project area and are not well protected by a dune and berm
system. Several of the oceanfront houses have been damaged in the
past and are constantly threatened by wave action. In addition,
strong currents are created around their seawalls which, during high
tide, can pose a threat to children.
Two areas on the beach will probably experience change within
the next 2 to 5 years. These are residential developments and involve
detached single family proposals. These areas are Sea Oats (19 single
family detached houses) adjacent to the Islander condominiums, and
the development of the north end of the island. The only area which
may experience increased commercial development is the area generally
known as the Kenan property at the end of North Channel Drive.,
Current zoning, as well as state regulations governing Areas of
Environmental Concern, will restrict development to these areas in
the immediate future.
The term Area of Environmental Concern, although not specifically
.defined by the Coastal Area Management Act, may be generally described
as coastal areas of greater than local significance. The various cate-
gories of these areas are: coastal wetlands, estuarine waters and

public trust land; fragile coastal natural and cultural resource areas;
and ocean hazard areas. Using these descriptions, the extent of these
areas was calculated (mapping is prohibited by the CAMA guidelines).
Of the approximately 4,000 acres of land and water within the planning
area, only 13 percent is developed for urban purposes. Forty percent
is covered by water and thirty percent by marsh grass. The remaining
17 percent falls into the beach or spoil island category. Thus, almost
87 percent of all the acreage over which the Town exercises jurisdic-
tion falls into one of the areas designated as an Area of Environmental
Concern. This fact reinforces the conclusion that without major
changes in Town zoning and state regulations, future development will
be limited to those areas previously noted.
2.1.3 CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES AND REGULATIONS - In 1970, a report
entitled Land Use Survey and Analysis: Population and Economy and
Attitude Survey was written for the Town of Wrightsville Beach by
the North Carolina Division of Community Planning. Based on this sur-
vey and analysis, the Land Development Plan and Community Facilities
Plan were prepared in October 1970 and subsequently adopted by the
Board of Aldermen.
In February. 1973, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., submitted a
Traffic and Planning Study (Phase I) for the Town of Wrightsville
Beach. This study was primarily concerned with the improvement of
traffic and parking conditions on Lumina Avenue and Waynick Boulevard
between Mallard and Seashore Streets, and particularly with inter-
section improvements at North Lumina and U.S. 74, South Lumina and
Stone Street, and Waynick Boulevard with U.S. 76. The Shell Island
Master Plan Report, 1975, by Robert E. Marvin and Associates, has.
been presented to both the Board of Aldermen and the Planning Board.
This report describes the proposed development of the north end of
Wrightsville Beach by the Shell Island Corporation. The Greater
Wilmington 201 Facilities Planning Study Report Part 1 Town of
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, Final Revision, June 1975, is
intended to "develop a facilities plan for the construction of the
most logical, economical, socially acceptable and environmentally
sound wastewater treatment and disposal facilities for Wrightsville
Beach." This report was written by Henry von Oesen and Associates,
- 12 -

consulting engineers and planners. The water and sewer extension
policies of the Town are found in Chapter 20 of the Code of the Town
of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Briefly, these policies and
ordinances require an approved application before any extensions of
water or sewer lines will be made. If the extension is to currently
developed property or an approved subdivision within the Town, the
extension will be made (subject to the availability of funds) and the
owner assessed on a per -front -foot basis, in accord with North Carolina
General Statute 160A-216. If the extension is to property outside the
corporate limits, the applicant must pay for the entire cost prior to.
installation. In addition, for installations requiring lines greater
than eight inches, payment to the Town by the applicant for any
difference in cost is optional for extensions outside the Town limits.
Since 1975, the Coastal Area Management Act Land Use Plan was
developed as an update to the 1970 Land Development Plan. This plan
was adopted by the Wrightsville.Beach Board of Aldermen and approved
by the Coastal Resources Commission.
In fall of 1978, the study entitled Methods of Financing Beach
Preservation Projects was prepared for the Town by the Department of
Natural Resources and Community Development. 'This study analyzed
fiscal and legal alternatives North Carolina local governments can use
to finance renourishment projects and established procedures and
policies for using these methods at Wrightsville Beach. .
The two most recent plans are the Dune Maintenance and Protection
Plan and the Wrightsville Beach Access Plan. The former established pro-
cedures and methods for protection of the dune and bern through vegeta-
tion maintenance and restrictive ordinances. The access plan sets out
policies for development of access points and for encouraging the visitor
population to use modes of transportation other than the automobile. A
summary of current ACOE projects is included in the Technical Appendices.
MEANS OF ENFORCEMENT - The Town of Wrightsville Beach enforces its
plans and policies through the general ordinance -making powers granted
to its Board of Aldermen in the Charter of the Town of Wrightsville
Beach (Private Laws 1899, Chapter 305, ratified March 5, 1899). The
Board of Aldermen have exercised this power by enacting a comprehensive
- 13 -

zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, ordinances restricting the
construction of piers, bulkheads and restraining walls, ordinances
governing dredging operations, and impact analysis ordinances. A
Department of Building and Land Use Development was established to
enforce all land use ordinances and the State Building Code. The
department employs a full-time staff of four persons (one secretary,
two inspectors and one department head). Water and sewer systems are
controlled by Chapter 20 of the Town Code which prohibits individual
water or disposal systems and establishes extension policies for these
services. The Town has extended its extraterritorial jurisdiction to
the Intracoastal Waterway and north one mile from the present limits.
Chapter 2, Article III, of the Town Code creates a Planning Board and
grants it certain powers and duties. The Board meets regularly once a
month.
A complete listing of state and federal regulations in the coastal
areas is included herein in the Technical Appendices. While many of the
permits will be required of individuals prior to initiating construction
of buildings or structures, two types have particular significance to
Wrightsville.Beach. The first of these is the permit required to dredge
or fill in estuarine waters by N.C.G.S. 113-229. Generally, any party
proposing to dredge or fill in any estuarine waters, tidelands or marsh-
lands shall first obtain a permit from the North Carolina Department of
Natural Resources and Community Development. The Department may deny an
application if it finds there will be significant adverse effects on:
the use of water by the public; the use of the property by riparian
owner; the public health, safety or welfare; the conservation of public
and private water supplies; or on wildlife, or estuarine or, marine
fisheries.
The second type of permit with significance to the Town is that
required in areas of environmental concern. The most important of
these are the permits for construction within ocean hazard areas.
Within the ocean hazard areas are three sub -areas subject to regulation --
ocean erodible areas, high hazard and flood areas, and inlet hazard
areas. The erodible areas are areas in which there exists a sub-
stantial possibility of excessive erosion and significant shoreline
MEW

fluctuation. The seaward boundary is the mean low water line; the
landward extent is 60 feet from the first line of stable vegetation
or 30 times the annual erosion rate, whichever is greater. The high
hazard flood areas are areas subject to the high velocity waters of
the 100-year storm as identified by the Town's Flood Insurance Rate
Maps. Inlet hazard areas are lands identified by the state geologist
as having a substantial possibility of excessive erosion that are
adjacent to inlets. These areas extend landward from the mean low
water a distance sufficient to encompass the area in which the inlet is
predicted to migrate. General use standards with ocean hazard areas
permit development only landward of the crest of the primary dune, and
if.no such dune is present, a distance equal to 30 times the average
annual erosion rate and a minimum of 60 feet. Growth -inducing public
facilities (e.g., sewers, waterlines) supported by public funds are
permitted only if they will be of overriding benefit to the public, will
not be hazardous, and will be safe from flooding or erosion.
2.2 CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT: LAND SUITABILITY
2.2.1 PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS: HAZARD AREAS, SOILS, WATER SUPPLY
HAZARD AREAS - There are three types of hazard areas usually
found on barrier islands --ocean erodible areas, areas subject to flood-
ing, and inlet hazard areas. The last of these, the inlet hazard area,
does not exist within the Town's jurisdiction since the southern inlet,
Masonboro, is protected by two jetties and the northern inlet, Mason's,
is outside the Town's jurisdiction. Ocean erodible areas are areas in
which there exists a substantial possibility of excessive erosion and
significant shoreline fluctuation. This area is generally defined as
extending from the mean low water line landward a minimum of 60 feet,
or more depending upon the rate of annual erosion or the extent of
the 100-year flood. A Survey of North Carolina Beach Erosion by Air
Photo, 1973. In this survey, it was found that between 1938 and 1972,
the composite mean annual rate of change for the dune line was an
accretion of 3.6 feet, and for the high water line an accretion of 5.3
feet. Between 1966 and 1972, the mean annual rate of change was'an
accretion of 16.3 feet per year at the dune line, and 7.7 feet per year
- 15 -

of accretion at the high water line. At first glance, the data would
seem to indicate that the amount of shoreline on Wrightsville Beach is
increasing at an increasing rate. However, several factors should be
considered before the conclusion is reached that the offshore processes
are such that accretion is the normal trend. The first and most .
important factor is that a dune and berm construction project was
initiated on Wrightsville Beach in 1965 and extended approximately
14,000 feet north from Masonboro Inlet. This fact alone would account
for significant distortion in the 1966-1972 data and would negate any
reliable conclusions concerning trends indicated by the 1938-1972 data.
Second, this study does not indicate what changes have taken place
since 1972.
Current trends in shoreline change may be found in the results of
a recent survey conducted by the Army Corps of Engineers. This survey
concludes that the shoreline area between the Holiday Inn and the
Blockade Runner has been eroding at the rate of 12 cubic yards of sand
per linear foot per year since 1970. This rate of erosion results in a
net loss of shoreline of approximately 7,000 square feet per year. From
the Blockade Runner to the Masonboro Inlet jetty, the trend has been one
of accretion, although at an undetermined rate. Furthermore, this sur-
vey indicates that prior to 1970, the rate of erosion for the entire
beach was two cubic yards per linear foot per year.
The most significant indications of the directions and causes of
change in Wrightsville Beach's shoreline are found in a recently
completed sediment budget and shore process analysis.completed by the
Army Corps of Engineers. This study is particularly important because
it assesses the effects of the north jetty on the beach. This study
concludes that the rate of sand entrapment in the inlet has increased
from a pre -jetty rate of 96,000 cubic yards per year (cy/yr) to an
existing rate of 435,000 cy/yr, for a net increase of 339,000 cy/yr.
The result is that the amount of sand that would have bypassed the
inlet for deposition on Wrightsville Beach's shoreline has decreased by
155,000 cy/yr. While this decrease is not apparent along the first
.7,000 feet of shoreline from the jetty north, where the alignment conforms
to the natural configuration of longshore movement, it is evident along
the next 10,000 linear feet where severe erosion has occurred.
- 16 -

The conclusion from the above studies is that the natural rates
of erosion occurring within the ocean erodible area have been so
permanently and significantly altered by man -related construction that
establishing the extent of the ocean erodible area on Wrightsville
Beach is extremely difficult. Further, much of the area thatwould
fall within the ocean erodible area is protected'by the Town's'building
line, seaward of which all development is prohibited.
FLOOD AREAS - A hazardous flood area is the area subject to
high velocity waters in a storm having a one percent chance of
occurring in a given year and is identified as a V1-30 zone on HUD Flood
Insurance Rate Maps. Floods occurring at Wrightsville Beach are mostly
the result of storm tides generated by hurricanes and severe wind storms.
In October 1971, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
conducted a flood insurance rate study of Wrightsville Beach for the
purposes of assisting the Town in developing a flood plain management
program and establishing rate tables for federally subsidized flood
insurance. This study found that the berm and dune structure would
provide protection from ocean storm waves producing a mean water
elevation of 10 feet or less. During such a storm, waves would be
dissipated on the beach, and wave runup would not overtop the dune.
However, in storms which caused water elevations in excess of 10 feet,
overtopping would occur and the dunes would not provide any substantial
protection; and, further, due to rapid passage of tidal flows through
the inlets in the immediate vicinity which directly affect the water
levels in the sounds, the man-made dune structures would not materially
reduce flooding.
By statistically analyzing historical hurricane and storm data,
it is possible to predict various flood frequencies and their corre-
sponding stage relationships (i.e., their elevation above mean sea
level). Some of these relationships are shown in the table below. As
the table shows, the elevation above mean sea level for the 100-year
flood is 12.1 feet. The hundred year flood is that flood, measured in
feet above sea level, that can be expected to occur once every 100 years,
or that has a one percent chance of occurring in any year.
- 17 -

FEET BELOW OR ABOVE
THE 100 YEAR FLOOD
-8.5
-8.0
-7.0
-5.5
-4.5
-3.5
-1.5
0.0
+1.5
ELEVATION ABOVE
FREQUENCY
MEAN SEA LEVEL
YEARS
3.6
0.5
4.1
1.0
5.1
5.2
6.6
10.5
7.6
15.7
8.6
24.0
10.6
54.0
12.1
100.0
13.6
210.0
Source: Flood Insurance Study - Wrightsville Beach,
North Carolina
Based on this study, the 100-year flood plain in Wrightsville
Beach was delineated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Except for the dunes and the Saline Water Research Plant, almost all of
the land within the Town limits falls within the 100-year flood plain.
SOILS - The properties and capabilities of soils are some of the
most.important physical factors to be considered in land use planning.
Due to the interaction of physical, chemical, and biological processes,
the limitations and potential of each soil type will vary over any
geographical area. According to the soil survey conducted by the Soil
Conservation Service for New Hanover County, there are only three major
soil types within the Wrightsville Beach Planning Area. The general
characteristics and capabilities of these three types are discussed in
the following paragraphs. A more detailed explanation is.provided by
the summary of Soil Survey Interpretations chart, and the general loca-
tion -and extent of these soils are shown on the soil map. However,
these maps and interpretations will not eliminate the need_for on -site
sampling, testing and study of specific sites for design and construc-
tion projects. They should be used primarily to plan more detailed
field investigations to.determine the conditions of the soil at the
proposed site for the intended use.
NEWHAN FINE SAND (7): This soil type consists of gently
sloping, excessively drained sands on dunes and along beaches and

coastal waterways. Newhan soils are very low in natural fertility,
organic matter content and available water capacity, have rapid
permeability and a low shrink -swell potential. The water table is
generally about 6 feet below the surface, except in lower lying areas,
that are subject to tidal fluctuations. Due to the rapid soil permea-
bility, there is a probable danger of contamination of groundwater
supplies from use of septic tanks or other pollution sources.
TIDAL MARSH (892): These are the soils of the tidal flood
plains between the coastal sand dunes on the ocean and the upland areas
on the mainland. Most of these soils are covered by smooth cordgrass
(Spartina alterniflora), but farther inland may be increasingly covered
by black needlerush (Juncus roemerianus). These soils are very poorly
drained, have slopes of 0 to 2 percent, and are used mainly for natural
habitat for shore and water birds except in those areas where they
have been drained and filled for construction.
URBAN LAND (6): This is a miscellaneous soil type that exists
in areas where the original soil profiles have been cut, filled, graded,
paved or otherwise changed so that the original soil types (mostly dry,
poorly drained sands) have been substantially altered or destroyed.
DEFINITIONS OF DEGREES OF LIMITATION
Slight (low) - Properties are favorable for the intended use,
and any limitations can be easily overcome.
Moderate - The soil properties are moderately favorable and
the degree of limitation can be overcome by plan-
ning, design, or maintenance. Such design or
modifications as artificial drainage, runoff
control to reduce erosion, extra,excavation,
special foundations or extra reinforcement may .
be required.
Severe - This rating indicates that the soil has one or
more properties unfavorable for the indicated use,
e.g., flood hazard, high shrink -swell potential,
seasonal high water table, or low bearing strength.
- 19 -

This last degree of limitation will generally require major soil
reclamation or special design, but in most situations it will be diffi-
cult or costly to alter the soil to compensate for this degree of
limitation.
WATER SUPPLY - Within the Lower Cape Fear River Basin, Wrightsville
Beach uses groundwater to supply all water demands. By definition,
Wrightsville Beach is not in any designated public water supply water-
shed, since groundwater is used exclusively.
The hydrogeology of Wrightsville Beach is complex. An uncon-
solidated sand occurs between surface and 60 feet below land surface
(BLS) and contains water under water table and/or semi -artesian condi-
tions; tentatively, this aquifer is the Post -Miocene Aquifer. Under-
lying the Post -Miocene Aquifer is the Tertiary System Aquifer, an
artesian aquifer comprised of limestone; groundwater is stored within
this aquifer from 60 to 190 feet BLS. From 190 feet to an estimated
1,100 feet BLS is the Cretaceous System Aquifer which is composed of
sands containing brackish groundwater under artesian and flowing
artesian conditions. Basement is at 1,100 feet BLS.
Rainfall directly infiltrates into the Post -Miocene Aquifer and is
a source of recharge. Under favorable circumstances, the Tertiary System
Aquifer would probably receive recharge from the overlying Post -Miocene
Aquifer.
Potable and brackish groundwater exists in the Post -Miocene
Aquifer in significant quantities. Potable groundwater exists in the
Tertiary System Aquifer in sizable quantities.
The aquifer of importance to Wrightsville Beach's water supply is
the Tertiary System Aquifer. Eight wells that are open end from 128 to
180 feet BLS provide a potential 1,315 GPM or 1.89 MGD of water. There
is now adequate good quality groundwater available, and if used
reasonably, there should be a satisfactory quantity and quality ground-
water available for future uses. Any future strains on the availability
of groundwater that the Town might experience will most likely result
from aquifer depletion caused by industrial and domestic users in the
surrounding county and not from the anticipated demands of future
population growth.
- 20 -

2.2.2 FRAGILE AREAS - Fragile areas are areas in which poorly planned
development could result in damage or destruction of significant areas
of public interest. Fragile areas that exist within Wrightsville
Beach's jurisdiction are wetlands, beaches, dunes, estuarine and
public trust waters.
COASTAL WETLANDS - Coastal wetlands are generally composed of
estuarine tidal marshes and mud flats that cover all but the high
sand ridges, dunelands and spoil islands of Wrightsville Beach along
its sounds, creeks and bays. The soils are poorly drained and are
subject to daily and frequent tidal flooding. Tidal marshes are of two
types --low tidal and high tidal. Low tidal marshland consists mostly .
of Spartina alterniflora and is usually subject to inundation by the
normal rise and fall of lunar tides. They are particularly significant
because of the high yield in organic detritus which serves as a primary
food source for various species of fish and shellfish, such as menhaden,
shrimp, flounder, oysters and crabs. The roots and rhizomes of Spartina
alterniflora serve as waterfowl food, and the stems as wildlife nesting
material. Low tidal marshes also help to retard shoreline erosion.
High tidal marshland is subject to occasional flooding by tides,
including wind tides, and is characterized by Juncus roemarianus
and various species of Spartina. These marshes have many of the same
functions as the low tidal marshes --food supply for the estuarine system,
wildlife habitat, sediment trap, and deterrent to shoreline erosion.
ESTUARINE WATERS - Estuarine waters are defined as 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 and inland fishing•waters.
They are the dominant component of the entire estuarine system and are
the most productive natural environment in North Carolina. They
support the commercial and sport fishing industries since these species
must spend all or part of their life cycle within the estuarine system
to mature and reproduce. The high productivity of the system results
from the circulation patterns caused by tidal energy, fresh water flow
and tidal depth. The circulation transports nutrients, propels plankton,
- 21 -

spreads seed stages of fish and shellfish, flushes waste from animal
and plant life, cleanses the system of pollutants, controls salinity,
shifts sediments, and mixes the water to provide a multitude of habitats.
Important features are mud and sand flats, eel grass beds, salt marshes,
submerged vegetation flats, clam and oyster beds and nursery areas.
PUBLIC TRUST AREAS - Generally, public trust areas within the
jurisdiction of the Town of Wrightsville Beach are all waters of the
Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder from the mean high tide mark
to the seaward limit of the state's jurisdiction; all natural water
bodies subject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the
mean high water mark; and all navigable natural bodies of water and
lands thereunder to the mean high water level. A more complete and
controlling description is found at 15 NCAC 7H.0207. Their signifi-
cance is that the public has rights in these areas, including naviga-
tion and recreation. In addition, they support commercial and sports
fisheries, have esthetic value, and are important resources for economic
development.
SAND DUNES AND BEACHES - Wrightsville Beach has approximately 5.10
miles of ocean shoreline. The beaches consist of unconsolidated soil
material with no vegetative covering and usually have a larger soil
particle size and lower slope than the adjacent dune. The beaches are
dynamic, responding to the action of wind and waves which move sand in
littoral currents up and down the beach. Their greatest significance
is as a recreation resource and a protective buffer against storms
where tidal surge may threaten homes or structures.
OTHER FRAGILE AREAS - According to the North Carolina Department of
Cultural Resources, there are no recorded archeological or historic
sites within the Town's jurisdiction. There are no habitats for
endangered or remnant species or areas containing unique geologic
formations. Spoil islands are included as fragile areas because of
their importance as a wildlife habitat. Research has proved that North
Carolina seabirds.utilize dredge islands extensively for their breeding
- 22 -

activities; and further, that because of lower elevations, vulnerability
to storm waters and increased human activity, nesting mortalities are
higher on "natural" sites. These natural sites are ordinarily the dunes
and beaches of barrier islands. However, as development and human
activity has increased in these areas, birds have been forced to find
other sites for breeding and nesting. These substitute sites are very
often the spoil islands. These islands are not only important for breed-
ing and nesting activities, but there is also support for their value
as a resting and feeding area for migrating birds. The number and
variety of birds will vary with each stage of the island's vegetational
succession --from bare, sandy dome to forests. A bare island, devoid of
vegetation, will be used by royal terns (Thalasseus maximus), sandwich
terns (Thalasseus sandvicensis), least terns (Sterna albinfrons), and
oyster catchers (Haematopus pallaratus). As vegetation becomes estab-
lished, common terns (Sterna hirundo) and gull -billed terns (Gelochelidon
nilotica), black skimmers (Rynchops nigra), Wilson plovers (Charadrius
Wilsonia), and willets (Cataptrophorus semi-palmatus) will inhabit the
island. As the density of the grasses increases, willets will continue
to increase and laughing gulls (Larces articilla) will move in. With the
emergence of shrubs and thickets; redwinged blackbirds A elaius
phoeniceus), boat -tailed grackles (CCassidix mexicanus), and common
grackles (Quiscalusguiscula) immediately colonize the island.
(Proceedings of a Conference on Management of Dredge Islands in North
Carolina Estuaries, 1974.)
A vegetation survey of the several spoil islands and deposit areas
within the planning jurisdiction shows that each of these stages of vege
tational succession exists in one or more locations. While detailed
investigations of these areas have not been conducted, the continued use
and development of natural habitat in that beach area has undoubtedly
forced many of the above birds to seek the artificial habitat of the
spoil islands. Recent surveys indicate that the majority of these birds
are actively present within the planning area.
2.3 CONSTRAINTS TO DEVELOPMENT: CAPACITY OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES
2.3.1 WATER AND SEWER - SERVICE AND FACILITIES - The Wrightsville Beach
wastewater treatment plant was constructed in 1944 and modified in 1964
- 23 -

to a contact -stabilization type activated sludge secondary treatment
plant. With "package" additions made to the plant, the existing design
capacity is 870,000 gallons per day. Sewage influent is almost 100 per-
cent domestic, with a small commercial component. Because of the
tourist character of the Town's population and economy, flows to the
plant will necessarily show a marked seasonal variation. The collection
system covers the entire Town and consists of 4 pumping stations and
811
> 10", 12" and 15" diameter gravity lines.
The capacity and adequacy of groundwater is discussed in Section 2.2
above. Treatment of the water is by chlorination, with storage facili-
ties consisting of two elevated tanks of 300,000 and 75,000 gallons, and
a 1 million gallon ground storage tank. Current demands will vary from
a low of 400,000 GPD to a seasonal high of over 1,000,000 GPD. The
following table indicates the capacities of each of the wells on
Wrightsville Beach for which data is available.
WELL LOCATION
CAPACITY - GPM
Corbett Street
50 GPM
Crane
95
Raleigh
150
Station One
100
Snyder
200
Park
150
Marina
175
Bridge
175
While this capacity is adequate to meet existing demands, both on
and off season, well failures could result in deficiencies in the case
of an emergency if peak demand were maintained for several days in a
row. To eliminate this possibility, the Town constructed the 1 million
gallon ground level reservoir in the new community park.
2.3.2 ROADS - The North Carolina Department of Transportation estimates
that the maximum capacity of the Intracoastal. Waterway Bridge is 1,040
vehicles per hour (in one direction), or approximately 50,000 per day.
Thus, design capacity at this point is adequate to handle future
- 24 -

projected traffic flows through 1982. However, when this volume of
traffic is funnelled into the Town's street system, considerable con-
gestion results, with consequent loss in parking spaces and ease of
vehicle movement. Although significant improvements have been made,
the design capacity of the U.S. 74-Waynick Boulevard, North Lumina
Street intersection and the U.S. 76-North Lumina intersection may be
deficient by 1987, if past trends in vehicle traffic increase continue.
This problem of vehicle congestion represents a serious constraint on
the Town, but one over which it has little influence. A first step
toward solution of this problem has been taken by providing a "park and
ride" service from the Town Park to the beach. The problem is also
discussed in the recently completed Wrightsville Beach Access Plan.
A more serious concern of the Town's is that there is only one
evacuation route available in the event of a severe storm or a medical
emergency. During non -peak days, i.e., off-season months and weekdays
during the on season, the capacity of the bridge would be adequate to
handle rapid evacuation. However, from observations made of traffic
congestion occurring during the peak days, an established evacuation
plan is a necessity to safely evacuate tourist -level populations. A
summary of the Town's evacuation plan is included in the Appendices.
2.3.3 SCHOOLS - The Wrightsville Beach Elementary School presently
has 7 classrooms and 140 students currently enrolled in grades K through
4. A recent survey conducted by the North Carolina Department of
Education indicated that the maximum number of students per classroom
should not exceed 26 in grades 1 through 3, or 33 in the 4th and 5th
grades. Based on these limits, the maximum number of students which
could be accommodated at the school would be 189. The percent of
utilization at present is shown in the following table.
GRADE
STUDENTS
PERCENT UTILIZATION
Kindergarten
22
85
First
20
77
Second
24
92
Third
35
1.06
Fourth
38
1.15
Fifth
38
1.15
TOTAL
179
MOVE

2.3.4 ESTIMATED DEMAND - Estimated demand for land and community
facilities is premised on projections of future population growth.
While Wrightsville Beach's planning population is composed of the
several different subgroups of permanent residents, day visitors, over-
night visitors and summer residents, only the permanent residents and
overnight visitors have a significant impact on land demand and
community facilities that the Town must provide. While the day
visitor population has a significant effect in terms of inconvenience
from traffic congestion and some required increase in police protection,
the major land demand exerted by this component of the population is
for additional parking spaces. According to the Wrightsville Beach
Access Plan, the number of cars per spaces available to the general
public is already exceeded on peak days by over 200. At the rate of
increase of the day visitor population estimated in Section 2.1, PRESENT
CONDITIONS, the number of cars per available spaces will be exceeded by'
almost 500 cars by 1990 unless either additional parking spaces are
provided or alternative modes of transportation are provided. This
issue is discussed in the following section on policies. The summer
resident and overnight visitor population do exert a considerable demand
on the water, sewer and solid waste facilities of the Town;. however,
because of existing zoning and the cost of maintaining a second home,
neither population is expected to increase significantly or to exert a
marked demand for land in the future. Thus, the most important segment
of the population in terms of land demand and effect on community
facilities is the permanent population. Assuming the estimated rate
of increase of 140 persons per year continues through the planning
period until 1990, there would be an increase in the Town's permanent
population of 1,400 persons, with a total of 4,481 permanent residents
in 1990. At the present time, there are an estimated 250 lots vacant
and available for single family construction. At an average of 4
persons per household (a high estimate), 1,000 additional persons can
be accommodated on these lots. The additional 400 persons will
probably be accommodated through rentals, purchase of summer residences
and conversion to permanent residences, and on the few remaining lots
allowing higher density. Thus, it appears that given current zoning
and development rates, the Beach will be essentially "built up," that
- 26 -

is, the permanent population will have stabilized at about 4,500 per-
manent residents, by the year 1990. However, this specifically assumes
existing zoning will remain the same, with no significant increases in
allowable density. While this is a sizeable percentage increase, 45
percent over the 1980 estimate of 3,081 persons, it will not place a
strain on the major Town facilities. Developers are currently required
to provide additional treatment capacity at 150 percent of proposed
sewage treatment flows at their expense for development projects. Thus,
any large scale developments must provide sewage treatment facilities
adequate for their needs prior to initiating construction. At the
present time, treatment capacity is more than adequate to handle addi-
tional hookups from individual detached residences. The Town has a
water storage capacity of approximately 1.45 million gallons of water,
more than adequate to handle peak demands. However, there is some
question if this capacity would be adequate to handle a major fire that'
occurred during a peak demand period.
Of more importance to the Town with regard to the future adequacy
of water and sewer facilities is the likelihood of a county -wide water
and sewer system being constructed within the next 10 years. Although
a recent referendum on a county -wide water system was soundly defeated,
preliminary engineering studies have been completed on both water and
sewer projects, and the issue will inevitably come up again. Increasing
problems with safe water supplies and decreasing areas with land suitable "
for development will increase the pressure for, and likelihood of con-
struction of, these two county -wide systems within the next 10 years.
Wrightsville Beach will then have the option of tying into these systems,
thus eliminating or greatly reducing its dependence on its existing
facilities. The current draft of the Greater Wilmington 201 facilities
plan calls for an upgrade of the Town's existing facilities and 'eventual
connection to a regional interceptor for treatment at the Wilmington
plant.
-27-

3.0 POLICIES
Land use policies serve several purposes. first, they act as guides
for desired future development and land use changes. In this sense they
may be followed directly or used to interpret the more specific standards
set out in Town ordinances, such as the zoning ordinance. When used to
interpret ordinances, their function is to provide insight into the desired
purpose of a particular regulation so that its spirit is observed as carefully
as its letter. However, policies are not intended to take precedence over
Town ordinances and do not have the effect of ordinances. A second purpose
is to serve as an expression of Town opinion on land uses permitted within
Areas of Environmental Concern. They act as an accepted point of compromise
between federal and state agencies and the Town. Broad community needs and
needed cooperation from these agencies are expressed in the policies. This
purpose is central to the Coastal Area Management Act's mandate of a land use
planning process involving a partnership between state and local governments.
A third and related use is as a component of state and federal review of
permits or grant applications. Development permits must be consistent with
local land use plans, as must the expenditure of federal or state funds.
These last two purposes pose potential sources of conflict and of.opportunity
in the land use planning process.
The State Guidelines for Land Use Planning require that four major
types of policies be formulated where appropriate for the particular
locality. These are resource protection, resource production and management,
economic and community development, and continuing public participation.
Within each of these areas, issues are to be defined, alternatives considered
and policies and methods of implementation selected. Specific policies are
to be stated on certain issues within each of the broad policy areas. Small
geographical area and relatively few AEC's make many of these issues
inapplicable to Wrightsville Beach (for example, importance of productive
agricultural lands or mineral sites).
SKIM

.rI
3.1 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES
The most fundamental objectivewihdthecneeds and ratic cpreferences lofuaffected
public policies correspond closely om in the bounds of its
citizens, and to pre Such anvent vobjectiveernment rmust acknowledge and respect the
limited authority. e responsiveness and
primary purpose of public participation --increasing thpublic decisions.
accountability of government to citizens affected by P ation
Because of the great sensitivity -to land use governance, public particip
programs should be responsive to the individual property
owner as well as
special interest groups and the general public.
e basic A public participation program consists of thre
overnmentaloaccountability.
(1) education, (2) public participation, and (3) 9
In preparation, the public must be educated on the basic concepts and pri
of decision making and notified of opportunities to participate. nd The primary
objective of the education component
is tofimprovs.coThe secondncomponentunica-
tion between affected citizen first, identification of Policy
public participation, requires two things
port from the public for each alternative.options and, second, estimating suphelp structure the public debate byhigh-
The
lighting common viewpoints and weeding out policy options that are not
feasible on technical, legal or other grounds. are policy decisionsfinal 'ccounta-
be
bility, requires that the rationale P decisions.for fairness
explained and opportunities be provided for testing
and responsiveness. M
Within this framework, several issues must be addreublic"ntoward lwhichg
policies for public participation. First, who is the p
participation efforts wowning residents, non -property
ill be directed. In a typical beach community, the
affected may include such groups as property parentsir or relatives),
owning residents (renters and persons living with the Each of these segments
and non-resident property owners (absentee owners). policies of
of the public will be affected to some degree by the actions
second ssue in
the Town, and each has certain participation rights. ri
designing a mechanorities should
ism for particiProups in allocating time
ion is determining
resources.
be given to each of the affected g
While each group is entitled to participate and express an opinion, resources
for participation are not unlimited and efforts must be directed toward the
-29-
4 �,

public most immediately affected. Finally, given the resources available
and the social and economic composition of the particular locality, the
issue of what methods will most efficiently and effectively gain the needed
participation from the various segments of the public must be decided.
Methods used by other agencies and local governments in the past have
included such diverse techniques as: speakers' bureaus, brochures, news media
coverage, depositing information in local public places, public notices,
registries of interested individuals, mass mailings, planning information
centers, mobile exhibitions, planning workshops, advisory groups, nominal
group technique, gaming and simulation, surveys, and systematic distribution
of successive draft plans to a panel of citizen reviewers. Many of these
methods will have only limited application, if any, to the Town of Wrightsville
Beach; and the policies that follow are intended to address the issues defined
above and select methods suitable to the Town's political character and popu-
lation size.
POLICY - It is the policy of the Town to assure that all resident
property owners have equal participation status in land use or other public
decisions that may affect 'them. However, while full participation rights
shall be afforded to all citizens, the Town's first responsibility shall be
to permanent residents.
POLICY - In consideration of the relatively small resident population
and geographical area of the Town, and in recognition of the inability of
some persons to participate in the land planning process because of physical
infirmity or job conflict, it shall be the policy of the Town to utilize a
variety of public education and participation techniques. These techniques
shall include. citizen surveys, public meetings, use of all news media to the
extent that cooperation can be obtained, required public hearings, and
draft review.
IMPLEMENTATION - In pursuit of the above policies, the following methods
of implementation will be used.
(1) In addition to required public hearings, public meetings will be
held to discuss land use policies and alternatives.
- 30 -

(2) Citizen surveys will be distributed so that citizens unable to
attend meetings and workshops will have -an opportunity to express
their opinions. The results of this survey follow below. A copy
of the questionnaire is included in the Appendices.
(3) Draft copies will be circulated to local officials for review and
made available to the general public at Town Hall and other
appropriate public places.
(4) To insure that the land use planning process is continuous, the
Town will conduct an annual review of the policies set out in this
plan. The purpose of the review will be to evaluate the effect of
the policies,on land use changes that have occurred or may be
anticipated. The Town, through either the Town Council or the
Planning Board, shall either make a finding that no changes are
necessary or make recommendations for necessary changes.
(5) In addition to the above public education and participation
techniques, several optional methods may be used by the Town to
the extent time and resources permit. The purpose of these optional
techniques is to (1) reinforce and supplement other methods, and
(2) to provide additional participation opportunities for persons
who.are unable to attend meetings or workshops because of work
conflicts or difficulty with physical mobility (elderly and
handicapped).
These techniques may include a registry of interested citizens who will
be contacted concerning meetings, information available, and the distribution
of a Town newsletter and educational brochures.
RESULTS OF THE 1979 CITIZEN OPINION
SURVEY FOR THE TOWN OF WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
For Town government to be truly responsive, its citizens must'be given
more than notice of an opportunity to attend scheduled meetings. Recognizing
the reluctance of some citizens to participate in public meetings and the
difficulty because of job conflicts, age, or physical infirmity, the Town
distributed a written questionnaire to all households during July and Auyust
of 1979. Since a citizen participation program is also a requirement of the
North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act land use planning program, the
Town was able to finance the entire cost of the survey from a state grant.
The survey thus not nnly provides an opportunity for more citizens to partici-
pate while meeting the Town's coastal planning requirements, but also provides
Town officials with needed information about citizen attitudes toward services,
facilities, and development issues.
- 31 -

Since one of the central objectives of the survey was to solicit the
ideas and opinions of all citizens, a controlled sample was eliminated as a
means of distribution, since only the citizens sampled would have the oppor-
tunity to respond. Instead, every effort was made to reach all Town residents
through hand delivery of questionnaires to the members of each household. In
many cases, questionnaires were personally picked up the following evening,
but many were mailed or delivered to the Town Hall. Approximately 1,800 sur-
veys were distributed and 410. returned, for a 23 percent rate of return. This
was below the hoped for 50 percent but still an excellent return rate for sur-
veys generally. The following summarizes the characteristics and responses
of the 410 residents who participated in the survey.
AVERAGE AGE: 42
PERCENTAGE OF MALE RESPONDENTS: 57%
PERCENTAGE OF FEMALE RESPONDENTS: 43%
TYPE OF RESIDENCE: Percentage of Single Family- 70%
Percentage of Multi -Family - 30%
AVERAGE LENGTH OF RESIDENCE: 11 years, 9 months
PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT: Wilmington - New Hanover County - 65%
Wrightsville Beach - 19%
Other - 16%
• AVERAGE WEEKLY NUMBER OF TRIPS OFF BEACH: 8.3
AVERAGE NUMBER OF CARS OWNED: 2.13
WEEKLY USE OF BEACH BY ALL HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS: 5.38 times a -week
AVERAGE LENGTH OF USE: 3 hours
PERCENTAGE OF RESPONDENTS USING BEACH FOR: Swimming - 31.5%.
Surfing - 3.5%
Walking - 35.2`K
Jogging - 8.7%
Birdwatching - 2.6%
Shelling - 21.0%
PERCENTAGE BELIEVING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IS: Adequate - 28%
Inadequate - 72%
PERCENTAGE WHO HAVE EVER ATTENDED A MEETING OF: The Board of Aldermen - 460
The Planning Board - 18;
PERCENTAGE WHO KNOW THE NAMES OF THE: Mayor - 63%
Aldermen - 64%.
Planning Board Chairman - 24%
PERCENTAGE WHO THOUGHT: A town manager is necessary - 42%
A referendum should be held - 63%
-32-

PERCENTAGE WHO FELT PUBLIC ACCESS IS ADEQUATE: To the beach - YES - 75%
NO - 25%
To the sound - YES - 71%
NO - 29%
PERCENTAGE WHO WOULD SUPPORT AN
INCREASE IN TAXES IF TRAFFIC COULD BE REDUCED: 69%
PERCENTAGE WHO WOULD SUPPORT AN
INCREASE IN TAXES TO FUND EROSION CONTROL PROJECTS: 23%
AVERAGE TOWN SERVICE RATINGS (1 = Lowest, 5= Highest)
Management
- 3.4
Water Service: Price
- 3.9
Quality
- 3.3
Refuse
- 3.6
Recreation
- 4.1
Building Inspection -
3.6
Zoning Administration -
2.7
Planning -
3.0
Fire Protection -
4.1
Police Protection -
4.2
Streets -
3.2
PERCENTAGE WHO WOULD SUPPORT A REDUCTION
IN GARBAGE PICKUP TO AVOID FEE INCREASES: 78%
TYPES OF DEVELOPMENT: MORE
LESS
Single Family Detached 78%
12%
Single Family Multi -Unit 13%
87%
Multi -Family Rental
Duplex 14%
86%
Apartments 4%
96%
Commercial
Hotels 8%
92%
Restaurants 10%
90%
Lounges 3%
94%
Retail 16%
84%
PERCENTAGE WHO WOULD SUPPORT A TAX INCREASE TO MAINTAIN -
SERVICE LEVELS IF COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT WERE REDUCED: 73%
I
- 33 -

3.2 NATURAL RESOURCE POLICIES
AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN - Among the most important natural
resources within Wrightsville Beach's jurisdiction are the Areas of Environ-
mental Concern which are specifically described in the State Guidelines for
Areas of Environmental Concern (15 ACAC 74). While other AEC's may later be
nominated and designated as fragile coastal natural resource areas under
Section .0500 of the Guidelines, the two areas that predominate within the
Town are the estuarine system and the ocean hazard areas. Alternatives to
development within Areas of Environmental Concern are strictly limited by
the regulations governing use of these areas promulgated under the Coastal
Area Management Act. The major policy choices and issues that the Town must
consider in developing land use policies for Areas of Environmental Concern
are: (1) The degree to which these regulations may restrict or prevent uses
within.AEC's that may have importance for the entire community, or (2) Whether
the regulations are strict enough to protect the natural and protective
values found in the Areas of Environmental Concern. The following policies
further define these issues and establish the Town's policies toward
acceptable land uses within these areas.
ESTUARINE SYSTEM - Within the estuarine system are included the
coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine shorelines and public trust
areas. The significance of these areas and their descriptions are set out
in Section 2.2.2, FRAGILE AREAS. The overriding issue with regard to estab-
lishing land use policies for development within the estuarine system is
what uses will interfere least with the interdependent components of the
system and will not upset the natural balance and relationship of these
components that create public social and economic values; and, to the, extent
that uses are permitted, how can these uses be controlled, so that if the
natural working system is interfered with, superior public and economic
values will be created by the allowed use. The determination of. these
issues..shall be governed by the following policies.
ESTUARINE SYSTEM_ POLICIES
(1) It shall be the policy of the Town to give high priority to
the protection and coordinated management of the estuarine system, so as to
safeguard and perpetuate its biological, social, economic and esthetic values;
- 34 -

and to insure that any development occurring within the system is compatible
with natural characteristics, so as to minimize the likelihood of significant
loss of private property and public resources.
(2) Suitable uses shall be those consistent with the above policy,
and highest priority shall be given to uses consistent with the conservation
of the estuarine system. Second priority will be given to those types of
development that require water access but cannot function elsewhere. Examples
of acceptable uses include utility easements; fishing piers and docks (public
or commercial); agricultural uses --such as farming or drainage as permitted
under the North Carolina Dredge and Fill Act; silviculture; private boat
ramps, provided they are constructed so as to conform to the natural bottom
contour and not to divert or impede the natural flow of water about and
within the Town; private piers and boathouses, provided they meet the con-
struction standards of Section 15-4 of the Town Code. Equal priority will be
given to grounds and facilities for public recreation, such as community
center buildings, parks and playgrounds and similar facilities operated on a
nonprofit basis; and to public or private piers allowable under Section 21-30A,
CONSERVATION ZONE, of the Town Zoning Ordinance.
POLICY IMPLEMENTATION
(1) The Town will enforce as part of its zoning ordinance and map
a conservation zone which will permit only those uses consistent with the
estuarine system policies.
(2) The Town will enforce as part of its zoning ordinance the pro-
hibition of the construction of piers or boathouses unless they conform to
the estuarine system policies as set out above.
(3) The Town will enforce as part of its zoning ordinance the
prohibition of any dredging within the Town unless approved by the Town in
accordance with the above policies.
(4) The Town will enforce as part of its zoning ordinance the pro-
hibition of any construction of bulkheads beyond the mean high water mark
except upon an express finding that such construction is in the public interest.
- 35 -

OCEAN HAZARD AREAS - The ocean hazard system consists of three
areas-- ocean erodible areas, high hazard flood areas and inlet hazard areas.
The ocean erodible areas are areas in which there exists a substantial possi-
bility of excessive erosion and significant shoreline fluctuation. The high
hazard flood areas are those areas subject to high velocity waters in a storm
having a one percent chance of being exceeded or equaled in any given year as
identified on flood insurance rate maps or other approved flood elevation
data. Inlet hazard areas are those lands identified by the State Geologist
as having a substantial possibility of excessive erosion that are located
adjacent to inlets. These areas are considered hazardous because of their
susceptibility to change from the constant forces of waves, winds and water
upon the unstable sands that form the shore. During storms, these forces
are magnified and can cause significant changes in bordering land forms
(dunes and beaches) and to structures located thereon. 17or this reason, the
appropriate location of structures on and near these land forms must be
reviewed carefully to avoid their loss or damage. The flexible nature of the
land forms which is hazardous to development located immediately on them also
offers protection to development located behind them. The most essential
function of these land forms is their capacity to store sand and dissipate
wave and wind energy. Establishing policies for ocean hazard areas is compli-
cated by the fact that many of these areas are in private ownership and,
because of their proximity to the beach and ocean, are considered prime build-
ing sites. The most critical issue with regard to land use policies is what
development controls and building requirements are necessary to insure that
construction in these areas does not endanger the lives or property of ocean
hazard area property owners or other property owners who may depend upon the
protection of land forms associated with the ocean hazard areas, but will
not deprive existing or future property owners of the reasonable use of
their property.
POLICIES_
(1) To the maximum extent feasible, and consistent with a property
owner's right to reasonable use of his property, uses of land in ocean hazard
areas shall be located, designed and constructed so as to maximize a struc-
ture's protection from wind and water and to minimize damage to the protective
land forms of dunes and beaches.
-36-

(2), Preferred erosion control measures to combat oceanfront
erosion shall be beach renourishment projects and comprehensive shoreline
management, which shall be preferred over small-scale methods.
(3) Newly created dunes shall be aligned if possible with existing .
adjacent dune ridges and shall be of the same general configuration.
(4) Adding to dunes shall be accomplished in such a manner that
the damage to existing vegetation is minimized. Filled areas shall be
immediately replanted or temporarily stabilized until planting can be
successfully completed.
(5) The Dune Maintenance and Protection Plan for the Town shall
be implemented to the maximum extent possible.
(6) To extend the Town building line north to the limits of the
Town's extraterritorial jurisdiction.
OCEAN ERODIBLE AREAS - Land uses permitted in the ocean erodible
areas shall be those uses permitted by the Town Zoning Ordinance. However,
no land use shall be permitted seaward of the Town's building line as estab-
lished in the Town Code, except those uses permitted therein for a public
purpose..
FLOOD HAZARD AREAS - Land uses shall be those permitted by the
Town Zoning Ordinance, which shall include residential, commercial and
institutional, provided however that all new construction shall meet the
requirements of the Federal Flood Insurance Administration.
INLET HAZARD AREAS - Land uses permitted shall be residential
single-family only if the requirements of the Federal Flood Insurance
Administration and the construction standards of the State Guidelines for
Areas of Environmental Concern are met.
- 37 -

IMPLEMENTATION
(1) The Town shall enforce by ordinance the restriction of land
uses within a public beach, which shall be indicated on the zoning map. The
public beach shall extend from the Town building line seaward to the mean low
water mark, and no land use shall be permitted within such zone except piers,
municipally owned or operated parks, recreation areas or other municipal
uses; gazebos may be permitted subject to approval of plans by the Town.
(2) The Town will enforce by ordinance the requirements of the
Federal Flood Insurance Administration requiring all residential structures
to be elevated 12.1 feet above mean sea level and, further, that no mobile
homes shall be permitted within a velocity zone.
(3) The Town will require in its subdivision regulations that
any land platted for subdivision shall not be less than 7.5 feet in elevation
from mean sea level.
(4) The Town will study the feasibility of extending the building
line north to the limits of the Town's extraterritorial jurisdiction and, if
found to be feasible, such area will be zoned as a public beach as defined
in (1) above.
AREAS OF LOCAL CONCERN - In addition to Areas of Environmental
Concern, certain areas exist within the Town that have significant esthetic
and ecological values of local concern which could be lessened by careless
development. In particular, these areas include the spoil islands found
along the Intracoastal Waterway. The significance of these areas and their
importance is discussed under Section 2.2, FRAGILE AREAS. It shall be the
policy of the Town to provide the same degree of protection and priority of
use.as that afforded the estuarine system areas and to include them in the
Conservation Zone in the Town Zoning Ordinance. A second area of local
concern is the Town park system, which consists of the sailing center; the
mini -park, and the main park on U.S. 76. The protection of these areas from
negative external influences is vital to insuring their continuing use as
areas of public recreation. To provide this protection, it shall be the
MI-M

policy of, the Town that no use by any private individual or public agency,
federal or state, of any contiguous land shall take place that will in any
way interfere with the recreational and esthetic values in the adjoining park.
3.3 DEVELOPMENT POLICIES
Wrightsville Beach's development policies are established to provide a
general guide to resolving the basic land use issues of the type, timing,.
location and density of growth. As such, they are an extension and expansion
of the Natural Resource policies, a confirmation of existing policies. and
ordinances, and an expression of public opinion. Timing of development, or
when development will occur, is largely dependent upon the availability of
facilities. Location is determined by the desired spatial relationship
between land uses and is influenced heavily by natural constraints. Density
of development is a function of the ratio of population and number of
dwelling units per unit of land. The interaction of each of these deter-
minants of land use shapes the pattern and character of the Town and its
environs. Formulation of policies for each of these issues requires con-
sideration of broad alternative growth patterns and selection of a general
growth objective.
ALTERNATIVES - The degree or amount of growth that any community chooses
to accept.is generally stated in broad terms of no growth, unlimited growth,
and controlled growth between the two extremes. A more specific statement
and definition of these choices is generally expressed by the terms and
restrictions of land use ordinances, such as zoning ordinances and sub-
division regulations. The purpose of this analysis of alternatives is to
examine public opinion on these choices and to state a general growth objec-
tive for the overall pattern of land use. The citizen opinion survey pro-
vides an insight into public opinion on these choices. Of the 23% who
responded, 78% wanted more single-family detached housing and 87% wanted
less single-family multi -unit development. The results showed an even
stronger aversion to multi -family rental development, with 86% desiring
fewer duplexes and 96% desiring fewer apartments. Less commercial develop-
ment was desired by almost 90% of all respondents. To confirm the strength
of this opinion, 73% indicated they would support a tax increase to maintain
service levels if commercial development were reduced. The results of this
- 39 -

survey clearly indicate a preference for maintaining existing land use
patterns of single family development as the predominant land use type.
The overall desired growth pattern may thus be characterized as single family
development, with limited supporting retail and tourist oriented services
and facilities. In accord with these issues and alternatives, the following
policies are adopted.
GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE - It is the objective of the Town to
adopt policies and ordinances and take appropriate actions to promote the
growth and development of the Town as a predominantly single-family
residential community with limited supporting retail services and tourist
oriented uses.
TYPES OF DEVELOPMENT - It shall be the policy of the Town to permit
single-family, multi=family, commercial, and institutional land uses within
'the Town under the terms of the zoning ordinance and in accord with the
Natural Resource Policies. Preferred commercial uses are those necessary
to provide limited retail and professional services to tourists and
permanent residents.
LOCATION OF DEVELOPMENT - The location of development shall be consistent
with the Town Zoning Ordinance and the Natural Resource Policies. Commercial,
multi -family or single-family attached developments shall be planned and
located so as not to interfere with surrounding residential development.
Further, it shall be the policy of the Town to require all new development
to locate behind the existing, or any proposed new, building lines.
TIMING AND DENSITY OF DEVELOPMENT - The timing of development shall be
consistent with the Natural Resource Policies and the capacity of the Town
to provide water and sewer services to additional projected development.
Water and sewer facilities should not be expanded to a capacity greater than
that required to accommodate projected permanent or peak populations; that
is, no facility expansions should be provided to induce or promote growth
beyond that projected in the section on ESTIMATED DEMAND. The density of
development shall be consistent with that allowable in the Town Zoning
Ordinance.
- 40 -

One particular issue with regard to density is the distinction between
peak and permanent density, because each poses separate problems with
different solutions. Peak density is density that occurs because of influx
of visitor population, either overnight or day visitors. Within the 515
acres of urban land, average density may be as high as 48 persons per acre,
while the permanent density is the ratio of permanent residents to urban land
and is about 6 persons per acre. The peak density tends to greatly overload
the access system, i.e., roads and points of access to the beach, and while
adding some additional load on the water and sewer systems, it is the
permanent population that has the greatest permanent impact on these facili-
ties. The methods of implementation that follow these policies provide
different techniques for solving each of these issues.
BEACH PRESERVATION AND EROSION CONTROL - The basic issue'is which of
the alternative methods of beach preservation and erosion control will,
consistent with state and local policies, provide the most economical, safe
and environmentally acceptable protection. The two basic alternatives are
structural measures, such as bulkheads or groins and renourishment, and
non -structured methods, such as vegetation maintenance and access control.
The following policies are adopted for this issue.
POLICY - Renourishment, supplemented by land use controls, access
control and vegetation maintenance, is"the preferred alternative for erosion
control.
POLICY - Since the dune and berm is a resource used by persons through-
out the region and state, the cost of its maintenance should be distributed
among the user -beneficiaries in equal proportion to the benefit received.
POLICY - The expenditure of public funds for dune and berm protection
must be complemented by the provision of public access to the beach and shore.
POLICY - To protect the dune system and its stabilizing vegetation by
(1) routing the flow of pedestrian traffic to central points of access to the
water, and (2) enforcing dune protection ordinances.
- 41

BEACH ACCESS - The 1976 Wrightsville Beach Land Use Plan adopted the
following policy regarding beach access:
To provide reasonable means and opportunity for the
public to have access to the beach, shore or other public
trust lands and waters, provided such, means do not con-
flict with the right of residents to the use and enjoyment
of their property.
In accord with the recommendations of the Plan, the Wrightsville Beach
Access Plan was prepared, which made more detailed recommendations for
improving access to the sound and beach. In addition to recommendations
for planning and design standards, the following policies were adopted.
POLICY - To provide additional parking only at remote parking lots
served by transit facilities and bikeways.
POLICY - To prohibit all traffic on the dune and berm, except at
designated access points and upon a ramp or walk -over structure.
POLICY - To designate access points as high, moderate and low use, and
to provide appropriate facilities for each.
The following maps and illustrations suimnarize these recommendations and
show a typical improved access point, including facilities for the handicapped.
- 42 -

IMPLEMENTATION OF EROSION CONTROL AND BEACH ACCESS POLICIES
(1) The Town will begin immediate implementation of its Beach Access
Plan by developing designs for specific improvements to selected access
points.
(2) Upon completion of the current renourishment projectiin November
of this year, the Town will begin immediate implementation of the procedures.
set out in the Dune Maintenance and Protection Manual.
(3) The Town will prepare, by February 1981, a feasibility report for .
the extension of the Town building line north to the limits of the Town's
extraterritorial jurisdiction.
(4) All new developments generating over 1,000 gallons per day of
sewage effluent will be required to provide additional treatment capacity
of 150% of projected effluent, at the sole expense of the owners of the
development.
(5)_ All development in undeveloped/transition land classes, as defined
in the following s.ecti:on, shall meet, to the maximum extent feasible, the
standards for Beach Access defined i'n the Wrightsville Beach; Access Plan. At
a minimum, however, all areas within this class shall provide four points, of
public access from a public road to the area of the beach.'tield in public
trust and parking sufficient to accomodate 600 cars. Further, any previously
platted public access areas, to any land class, shall be opened to the public
at the earliest possible time. To accomplish this protection and opening of,
previously platted public access areas the Town will not approve any plan; plat,
or permit which eliminates or restricts previously established access areas,
and will seek, at the earliest possible time to secure needed access to such
areas through condemnation or other acquisition methods.
- 43 -

4.0 LAND CLASSIFICATION
4.1 PURPOSE
The land classification map is intended to serve as a graphic illustra-
tion of the Town's adopted policies. It provides a framework to be used by
local governments to identify future land uses and as a guide to where
natural and cultural resources will be preserved. It is not a regulatory
mechanism, such as a zoning ordinance and map, but should act as a guide to
local citizens and officials in making zoning and other land use decisions.
4.2 LAND CLASSES
There are three categories of land classification with significance for
Wrightsville Beach --developed, transition, and conservation. Each requires
some degree of modification in definition and scope from the definitions of
the State Guidelines in order to be of use to the Town of Wrightsville Beach.
The developed class, according to the State Guidelines, is intended to pro-
vide for continued intensive development of areas presently developed at a
density of 500 dwelling units per square mile, or at 1.28 dwelling units per
acre; further, such areas should be provided public water, sewer, fire and
police protection and recreational facilities. Since the density ratio at
Wrightsville Beach is estimated at almost 6 persons per acre (3,081 estimated
1980 population, divided by 515 acres in urban category), and because all
services are provided, virtually all of Wrightsville's urban area falls
within the developed category. The remainder of the land would fall primarily
within the conservation class. The final class with significance for
Wrightsville Beach is the transition class. The State Guidelines state that
the purpose of the transition class is to provide for future intensive
urban development that will occur within the next 10 years, and that•such
development will occur on suitable lands and be, provided with necessary
public utilities and services. The following classifications are modifica-
tions of each of these classes to provide appropriate guides for inter-
pretation of the Natural Resource and Community Development policies set out
in Section 3.0.
IMIEW

DEVELOPED - This classification is intended to recognize the present
developed state of Wrightsville Beach into primarily residential and
supporting tourist and commercial uses with full urban services and
facilities. Its basic purpose is to confirm and allow existing land use
patterns and future projected trends anticipated under existing ordinances .
and policies. However, it is.also intended to establish the policy that
any alteration in underlying ordinances and policies which would result in
a significant increase in growth of either permanent or tourist populations
or a deviation from existing land use patterns should not be made, except
if found by the Planning Board and Board of Aldermen to be consistent with
the general development objective of maintaining the predominantly single-
family residential nature of the beach.
UNDEVELOPED - TRANSITION - This classification is intended to estab-
lish the following development priorities for lands falling within this
class:
(1) The first priority for future use of UNDEVELOPED - TRANSITION lands
shall be open space in which all land remains in its existing state
until it can be acquired by local, state or federal government for
public use. However, to the extent such a policy conflicts with an
owner's right to a reasonable use of his property, consistent with
local, state and federal regulations the second priority for develop
ment will apply.
(2) The second development priority is for single -family -ownership struc-
tures which permit a minimum of developed area and a maximum of open
space for public use. Development densities shall not be significantly
greater than that permitted under the Town Zoning Ordinanace for the
zoning class in which the land is situated.
(3) For any of the above development priorities, public access shall be
provided as stated in Section 3.3 above.
CONSERVATION - This classification is established to implement the
Natural Resource Policies, to protect the Areas of Environmental Concern
and fragile areas, and delineate areas of public benefit where certain
public uses may take place.
- 45 -

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TECHNICAL APPENDICES

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STATE LICENSES AND PERMITS
Agency Licenses and Permits
Department of Natural Resources and Community - Permits to discharge to surface
Development waters or operate waste water
Division of Environmental Management treatment plants or oil discharge
permits; NPDES Permits, (G.S. 143-
215)
Department of Natural Resources and
Community Development
Office of Coastal Management
Department of Natural Resources and
Community Development
Division of Earth Resources
- Permits for septic tanks with a
capacity over 3000 gallons/day
(G.S. 143-215.3).
- Permits for withdrawal of surface
or ground waters in capacity use
areas (G.S. 143-215.15).
- Permits for air pollution abate-
ment facilities and sources
(G.S. 143-215.108).
- Permits for construction of com-
plex sources; e.g. parking lots,
subdivisions, stadiums, etc..
(G.S. 143-215.109).
- Permits for construction of a well
over 100,000 gallons/day (G.S. 87-
88).
i
- Permits to dredge and/or fill in
estuarine waters, tidelands, etc.
(G.S. 113-229).
- Permits to undertake development
in Areas of Environmental Concern
(G.S. 113A-118 ).
NOTE: Minor development permits
are issued by the local
government.
- Permits to alter or construct a
dam (C.S. 143-215.66).
- Permits to mine (G.S. 74-51)
- Permits to drill an exploratory
oil or gas well (G.S. 113-381).
Permits to conduct geographical
exploration (G.S. 113-391).

Department of Natural Resources and
Community Development
Secretary of NRCD
Department of Administration
Department of Human Resources
- Sedimentation'erosion control
plans for any land disturbing
activity of over one contiguous
acre (G.S. 113A-54).
- Permits to construct an oil refinery.
- Easements to fill where lands are
proposed to be raised above the
normal high water mark of navigable
waters by filling (C.S. 146.6(c)).
- Approval to operate a solid waste
disposal site or facility (G.S.130-
166.16).
- Approval for construction of any
public water supply facility that
furnishes water to ten or more
residences (G.S. 130-160.1).

FEDERAL LICENSES AND PER,*ZITS
Agency Licenses and Permits
Army Corps of Engineers - Permits required under Sections 9
(Department of Defense) and 10 of the Rivers and Harbors
of 1899; permits to construct in
navigable waters.
- Permits required under Section 103
of the Marine Protection,. Research
and Sanctuaries Act of 1972_
Coast Guard
(Department of Transportation)
Geological. Survey
Bureau of Land Management
(Department of Interior)
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
- Permits required under Section 404
of the Federal Water Pollution.
Control Act of 1972;,permits to
undertake dredging.and/or filling
activities.
- Permits for bridges, causeways,
pipelines over navigable waters;
required under the General Bridge
Act of 1946 and the Rivers and
Harbors Act of 1899.
- Deep water port permits
- Permits required for offshore
drilling.
- Approvals of OCS pipeline corridor
rights -of -way.
- Licenses for siting, construction
and operation of nuclear power
plants; required under the Atomic
Energy Act of 1954 and Title II of
the Energy Reorganization Act of
1974.
- Permits for construction, operation
and maintenance of interstate pipe-
lines facilities required under the
Natural Gas Act of 1938.
- Orders of interconnection of elec-
tric transmission facilities under
Section 202(b) of the Federal Power
Act.

Permission required for abandonment
of natural gas pipeline and asso-
ciated facilities under Section 7C
(b) of the Natural Gas Act of 1938. i
- Licenses for non-federal hydro-
electric projects and associated
transmission lines under Sections
4 and 15 of the Federal Power Act.
i

CITIZEN OPINION SURVEY
1. Age:
2. Sex: M F
3. Median household income: $
4. What type of residence do you live in? Single Family Detached
Multi -family (circle number of units in structure): 1 2 3 4 5 or more
Condominium
5. Length of residence at Wrightsville Beach:
6. Place of employment (by geographic location):
7. Estimated number of trips made weekly off of beach:
6. How many cars are owned by all members of household?
9. Estimate number of times all members of household use beach (i.e. , the area
between dunes and water) per week:
10. Length of each use: Less than 1 hour 1-2 hours 2-4 hours
5 hours +
11. Reason for use: swimming_ surfing_ walking_ jogging_ birdwatching_
shelling_ other
12. Du you believe there is adequate participation by the public in Town decision
making? Yes No Comment:
13. Have you ever attended a meeting of the Board of Aldermen? - Planning
Board?
14. Do you know the names of the Mayor? Aldermen? Planning Board
Chairman?
15. The Town of Wrightsville Beach presently operates under a Mayor/Aldermen
form of government and is considering changing to an Aldermen/Manager form.
This change would shift much of the administrative responsibility and authority
of Town decision making to a professional manager who would answer to the
Board of Aldermen.
Do you think this change is necessary? Yes_ No _
Should a referendum be held to make this decision? Yes No

16. Do you think public access at Wrightsville Beach is sufficient:
To the beach? Yes _ No _
To the sound? Yes No
17. Would you support an increase in taxes if a reduction in the amount of traffic
'could be achieved? Yes_ No _
Comment:
18. Would you support a tax increase to fund erosion control projects?
Yes _ No _
Comment:
19. Rate Town services and facilities using a scale of 1 to 5,
with 1 as the lowest or
worst rating and 5 as the highest
or best rating:
Town Management 1
2
3 4
5
Comment:
Water Service
Price 1
2
3 4
5
Quantity & quality 1
2
3 4
5
Comment:
Refuse Service 1
2
3 4
5
Comment:
Recreation 1
2
3 4
5
Comment:
Building Inspection 1
2
3 4
5
Comment:
Zoning Administration 1
2
3 4
5
Comment:
Planning 1
2
3 4
5
Comment:
Fire Protection 1
2
3 4
5
Comment:

lowest highest
Police Protection 1 2 3 4 5.
Comment:
Streets 1 2 3 4 5
Comment:
20. For which of those services or facilities ranked 1 or 2 above would you
support an increase in taxes to improve?
21. Most North Carolina cities provide garbage pickup only twice a week. If
necessary to avoid future tax increases or additional fees, would you support
a reduction in pickup at Wrightsville Beach from 3 to 2 times per week?
Yes No Comment:
22. What is the most serious problem facing the Town of Wrightsville Beach?
23. Current population projections indicate the Town's permanent population.
may double in size within the next ten years. Do you think this is:
Desirable? Undesirable?
24. Which of the following types of development would you like to see more or less
of:
Single Family Detached
More
Less
Single Family Multi -unit (condominium)
More
Less
Multi -family Rental:
Duplex
More
Less
Apartments
More
Less
Commercial:
Hotels
More
Less
Restaurants
More
Less
Lounges
More
Less
Retail
More
Less
25. If Town revenues were reduced because of less commercial development,
would you support an increase in taxes or fees to maintain the level of service?
Yes No Comment:

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH
BIKEWAY.SURVEY
1. How many bicycles are there in your household?
Z. How many regular bike riders are in your household? adults &
children
3. Do you think bicycle facilities and programs are needed in the Wrightsville
Beach area? _Yes No
4. How do you feel the existing con3itions are for bicycling in the Wrightsville
Beach area?
a. Extremely safe
b. M derately safe
C. Unsafe
d. Real hazardous
5. Ho'w often do members of your household ride a bike? (make one 'check for each
rider)
Adults:
daily
one to three times a month
3 &4 times a week less than once a month
once or twice a week never
children
daily one to three times a month
3 & I times a week less than once a month
onke or twice a week _ never
6. For what purpose so you present(v rid(- vour bike?
going to work recreational/ touring
going ••.) school
—personal busineuq
__•_., iob .rjuirement __shopping
,,._exor' .e other

7: How important do you feel the following bicycle facilities and programs would
be to you and your family?
Bicycle safety education
Bicycle parking facilities
Bikeways
Strict enforcement of bike laws
Improved street maintenance
Bicycle registration
Other bike related needs (list)
Very Moderately
Important Important
Not
Important
8. What do you think should be done to improve bicycling conditions for recrea-
tional riding (please check the most important items below)
better maintenance of roads (removal of sand and trash at curb edge)
provide bike parking facilities
construct bikeways leading to parks and recreational areas
... improve intersection crossing
..._..,.,,installing safety grate over storm drains in road
.....�other (please specify)
9. If bikeways were provided in the area and were conductive to safe riding, would
You consider riding a bike as an alternative means of travel to and from work,
shopping, school, leisure activities, etc.
yes .��.. no
undecided
10. Do you think bicycle registration should be mandatory or voluntary?
Mandatory
Voluntary
11. Would you be interested in participating in a bicycle safety program?
yes no
12. If Wrightsville Beach was to consider bicycle facilities, how do you think its
construction should be financed?
Property Tax
Sales Tax Liquor/Cig. Ekcise
Gas Tax Register/License
Special Assessment Donations
Other

CIVIL DEFENSE OPERATIONS PLAN
September, 1978
SUMMARY - HURRICANE PLAN
Following is a summary of actions to be taken by Town personnel in '
the event of a hurricane emergency. Individual department responsibilities
are listed separately. It would be prudent, however, to be familiar with
the entire plan and its operation.
CONDITION 3 - HURRICANE WATCH
1. Civil Preparedness Emergency Operation Center (EOC) will be
activated along with subordinate EOCs. Police Dispatcher
will notify Civil Defense Director (CDD) and Asst. Director,
Department Heads. Town Clerk will notify Mayor and Board of
Aldermen and set time for meeting to review procedures.
2. Upon notification by Dispatcher, all Department Heads will
assemble immediately at Town Hall to review plan and set forth
potential problem areas where they might need help. After
setting in motion appropriate departmental standby actions,
Department Heads will report back to Board of Aldermen in one
(1) hour with status report. Upon notification of Watch Status
all Town personnel are automatically placed on standby alert.
3. Town personnel will be supplied with communications equipment
by Director of Public Safety (Department Heads and Board of
Aldermen).
4. Town personnel will conduct equipment check, including
emergency power sources. Coast Guard and CG Auxiliary
notifies boats in area that hurricane watch is in effect.
5. Advise residents to begin preparation for hurricane security
(prepared statement to news media).
6. Police alert N. C. Highway Patrol of probable need for
assistance in check point at drawbridge.
7. Construction projects advised by Recreation Department to.
evacuate or secure materials.
8. Town Clerk will distribute means of identification to necessary
personnel.
9. EOC to -be kept advised of all actions.

CIVIL DEFENSE OPERATIONS PLAN
September, 1978
CONDITION 2 - HURRICANE WARNING
1. Mayor calls immediate meeting of Town Council to standby for
action on evacuation order.
2.
Asst. CDD will coordinate removal of persons requiring
assistance in the event of evacuation. Red Cross Shelters may
be activated early to accommodate these people.
3.
Police relay message to residents via mobile PA. and establish
radio communication with essential agencies.
4.
Town Clerk will dispense temporary passes to Police for use at
drawbridge.
5.
Police establish check point at drawbridge and dispense means of
identification to residents and other authorised personnel. No
one else will be allowed to enter Town at this point.
6.
CDD, Police, Fire, Public Works Departments take the appropriate
C�
municipal standby actions (see separate listings).
7.
Department Heads will advise CDD when standby actions are com-
pleted or, if personnel are available to assist in other areas.
8.
Main EOC must be kept current of local actions with status
reports from CDD.
t
1

CIVIL DEFENSE OPERATIONS PLAN
September, 1978
CONDITION 1 - EVACUATION
1. Town Council proclaims state of emergency and orders evacuation -
coordinated with main EOC.
2. Evacuation notice posted and Town patrolled with mobile PA to
notify residents. Notify hotels, motels;.etc.
3. Station bulldozer, backhoe, and chainsaw at Fireman's Clubhouse.
4. Transport all other movable equipment to secure location.
5. Activate emergency transportation system as required.
6.Activate emergency wrecker service as required.
7. Valve off water tanks, disconnect all pumps at well sites,
sewage plant, and sewage lift stations.
8. Remove pumps and other equipment where feasible.
9. Notify Carolina Power and Light to cut power to Town.
10. Establish communications center at alternate EOC.
11. Station fire trucks on east approach to drawbridge.
12. Patrol Town as long as possible to ensure that evacuation order
received and obeyed by all residents. Patrol teams will main-
tain communications with Dispatcher and check out before
leaving Town. This check out procedure is essential to ensure
the safety of our personnel.
13. Situation reports, news releases, etc. shall be forwarded to
main EOC. County Civil Preparedness Office shall furnish the
Town a radio to be used during such an emergency.
14. Essential personnel that will be allowed at alternate EOC..
are as follows: Board Members, Civil Defense Director and
assistant, Department Heads, 2 equipment operators from Public
Works, 4 Policemen, and Fire Chief or his designate. NO OTHER
PERSONNEL WILL BE ALLOWED TO REMAIN. At no time should the
number of people at the Clubhouse exceed 20.
15. During a "Condition 1" alert all personnel in Police, Fire, Public
Works, and Civil Defense units are automatically on action duty
and subject to the direction of the Civil Defense Director and
the Board of Aldermen.

{ CONDITION 3 - HURRICANE WATCH
CIVIL DEFENSE DIRECTOR - DEPT. OF LAND USE & BUILDING
1. Upon notification by police dispatcher, CDD will report to Town
Hall for meeting to review procedures. Status report to be made
to Board.one hour after initial meeting.
2. Residents advised to begin preparation for hurricane security via
radio, T.V., etc. (automatic).
3. Compile list of construction sites to be given to Recreation
Department for notification to evacuate or secure equipment and
materials.
4. Completed actions, situation reports, and assistance requests will
be forwarded to main EOC. It is imperative that any order for
evacuation be coordinated with EOC to insure notification of American
Red Cross and shelter readiness.
4. CDD will coordinate all local requests for assistance and relocate
personnel as they become available.

[,
SUMMARY OF CURRENT ARMY CORPS OF
ENGINEERS PLANS AND PROJECTS
BEACH RENOURISHMENT - There is currently a beach restoration project at
Wrightsville which seeks to restore the beach to the original profile
established by the 1965 shore protection project. The current project
is being conducted in two phases. The first, completed in May of 1980
provided 550,000 cubic yards of sand along 6,000 feet of beach from
Chadbourn Street to the Holiday Inn. The second phase currently underway,
will restore the project to its 1965 profile of a 25 foot wide dune at
15 feet MSL and a 50 foot wide berm at 12 feet MSL.
MASONBORO INLET -SOUTH JETTY - This project involves the construction of a
400 foot wide channel of 14 feet deep through the bar of Masonboro Inlet and
continuing at a 90 foot width and 12 foot depth to the IWW via Banks and
Motte Channels, a 15 foot deep turning basin with a minimum width of 300 feet
on the east side of Banks Channel; and a stone jetty extending about 3,000
feet from the northerm tip of Masonboro Island extending to 14 feet MSL.
NORTHEND STUDY - There is currently a feasibility study being prepared by
the planning section of the Wilmington District to extend the current renourish-
ment project about 2,000 feet north to cover the development known as the
Shell Island subdivision. This study will consider the relative costs and
benefits of the proposed extension and make recommendations for other
alternatives as well.
PERMITTING - The ACOE, through its Permits Branch and in conjunction with the
State of North Carolina, maintains regulatory control over the use of areas
classified as navigable waters. The combination of these two regulatory
functions provides protection for marshlands, public trust waters, and the
navigable rights of boats using the IWW.