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ATLANTIC OCEAN Town of Caswell Beach, North Carolina 1990 Land Use Plan Prepared for The Town of Caswell Beach, North Carolina By T. Dale Holland Consulting Planners December, 1990 Adopted by the Town of Caswell Beach: December 13, 1990 Certified by the CRC: February 1, 1991 n D M ullllll The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal 22 Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended , which is administered by the Office of MOcean and Coastal Resource Management, National and Atmospheric Administration. DCM COPY DCM COPY Please do not remove!!!!! Division of Coastal Management Copy SECTION I. ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS A. ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE This 1990 Sketch Land Use Plan for the town of Caswell Beach has been prepared in accordance with requirements of the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). Specifically, this document complies with Subehapter 7B, "Land Use Planning Guidelines," Chapter 15A of the North Carolina Adminis- trative Code, as amended, November 1, 1989. The major purposes of developing local land use plans are to address issues and to adopt policies that guide growth and development of a community. The land use plan can then be used as a tool for ensuring that the local government's ordinances and other regulatory documents are consistent with town policy. Several data sources were tapped during the preparation of this plan. In addition to contacting town staff and consulting previously published documents or reports, a citizens' survey was conducted during February and March, 1990, to solicit citizens' input in identifying preliminary land development issues. The survey results were very important to the development of the policy statements contained in this plan. Listed below are some of the important sources and documents utilized during preparation of this Sketch Land Use Plan: —Town of Caswell Beach staff —Town of Caswell Beach 1990 Citizens' Attitude Survey —North Carolina Division of Coastal Management staff —North Carolina Division of Archives and History staff —Town of Caswell Beach 1980 Land Use Plan —Town of Caswell Beach 1985 Land Use Plan Update —North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management —"Population and Housing Counts, 1980-1988," Brunswick County Planning Department, April, 1988 —National Flood Insurance Program, Flood lnsuranceRateMaps,TownofCaswellBeach, NC,January 17,1986 (FEMA) —Brunswick County Land Use Plan and Policies for Growth and Development, 1987 Update B. POPULATION, HOUSING, AND ECONOMY 1. Population According to preliminary 1990 Post Census Local Review figures, Caswell Beach has a year-round population of 177 persons. See Table I for comparative population information. Table 1 Total Year -Round Population Projections, 1970-1990 Caswell Beach and Brunswick County Year -Round Population Percent Increase Overall 1970 1M&4 1988* 1990.. '70-'80 '80-'88 '80-'90 Caswell Beach 28 112 170 177 300% 51.8% 58.0% Brunswick Co. 24,223 35,777 56,966 50,681 47.7% 59.2% 41.7% Sources: N.C. State Data Center, Office of State Budget and Management 'Brunswick County Planning Department, "Population and Housing Counts, 1980-1988" •• 1990 Post Census Local Review, Preliminary Housing Unit and Group quarters Population Counts for Caswell Beach, NC Consistent with the overall growth trend of Brunswick County, Caswell Beach had a large population increase (507%) during the period 1970 to 1988. The 1990 figures are preliminary but have been accepted by the town's Board of Commissioners as being correct. Caswell Beach's population has increased by over one-half (58%) from 1980 to 1990. The overall 20-year percentage increase is a significant 532%. In 1980,47 (51 %) of Caswell Beach's 93 housing units were occupied. Of the 46 vacant units, 43 (93%) were classified as "held for occasional use," which may indicate units used for seasonal housing. According to a study prepared by East Carolina University of recreational populations for North Carolina coastal communities ("Characterization of Baseline Demographic Trends in the Year -Round and Recreational Populations in the Albemarle Pamlico Estuarine Study Area," Paul D. Tschetter, Greenville, NC: East Carolina University, 1987), a reasonable average number of persons per household occupying seasonal housing units is 4.5. The 1980 permanent population of 112 persons plus the estimated seasonal population of 193 persons yields an estimated 1980 peak seasonal population of 305 persons. By 1990, the total peak seasonal population had increased more than five times, more than doubled, with an increase to 1,612 persons. See Table 2. Table 2 Estimated Year -Round and Total Peak Seasonal Population Caswell Beach, 1980 and 1990 1980 1990 % Change Year -Round 112 177 + 58% Seasonal (# seasonal housing units x 4.5) M 14 • + 645% Total Peak Seasonal Population 305 1612 + 429% Sources: Brunswick County Planning Department, "Population and Housing Counts, 1980-I988" T. Dale Holland Consulting Planners and 1990 Post Census Local Review, Preliminary Housing Unit and Group Quarters Population Counts for Caswell Beach, NC * Assumes 90% of vacant houses are seasonal. This is based on 1980 Census and empirical observations. Caswell Beach is one of the fastest growing municipalities in Brunswick County as well as in the state. How this impacts the town's policy setting is discussed in the policy statements section of the sketch plan. 2. Housine As stated earlier in the plan, roughly one-half (47) of Caswell Beach's 93 housing units were occupied according to the 1980 Census. See Table 3 forthe tenure and condition of housing as reported by the 1980 Census. Table 3 Caswell Beach Housing Summary 1980 Census Item Number Total Year -Round Units 93 Occupied Units 47 Owner -occupied 26 Renter -occupied 21 Vacant Units 46 For Sale Only 3 For Rent 0 Held for Occasional Use 43 Condition and Age Total Year -Round Units 93 (100%) A91< 0-4 years 22 (24%) 5-9 years 60 (64%) 10.19 years 9 (10%) 20-29 years 2 (2%) 30 years and older 0 (0%) Condition Lacking complete bathroom facilities 0 Lacking complete kitchen facilities 0 Lacking central heating facilities 0 L= Total Year -Round Units 93 (100%) Single -Family, Detached 82 (88.2%) Single -Family, Attached 3 (3.2%) Duplex 4 (4.3%) 3- and 4-unit 0 5- or more unit 4 (4.3%) Mobile Home 0 Source: N.C. State Data Center, Office of State Budget and Management, Summary Tape File 3A NOTE: 1990 detailed housing Census data were not available. With 88%of Caswell Beach's housing stock less than 10 years old (in 1980), it is not surprising that none of the units were reported as substandard. Also, the majority (91%) of Caswell Beach's housing units in 1980 were single-family, with only 8 multi -family units and no mobile homes. According to the 1990 Post Census Local Review, Preliminary Housing Unit and Group Quarters Population Counts for Caswell Beach, NC, the number of housing units for 1990 is reported to be 440, with 355 (80.6%) vacant. This information is preliminary; however, it represents an increase of 38 occupied housing units over the 1980 figure of 47 occupied units, an 80.8% increase. 3. Economy Median per capita income for Caswell Beach in 1979 (1980 Census) was $7,500, well above that of Brunswick County and North Carolina. See Table 4. Table 4 Median Per Capita Income, 1979 Caswell Beach, Brunswick County, North Carolina 1979 Median Income Caswell Beach $7,500 Brunswick County $5,321 North Carolina $5,863 Source: N.C. State Data Center, Office of State Budget and Management, Summary Tape File 3A NOTE: 1990 detailed Census data were not available. Almost three-quarters of employed persons in Caswell Beach were employed in communication or other public utilities, educational services, or the construction industries in 1980. See Table 5. There were no persons reported as working in the fishing industry or the real estate industry. Table 5 Employed Persons 16 Years and Older by Industry, Caswell Beach, 1980 Number Employed Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Mining 0 Construction 8 (21.6%) Manufacturing: Nondurable goods 0 Durable goods 4 (10.8%) Transportation 0 Communication, Other Public Utilities 10 (27.0%) Wholesale Trade 3 (8.1%) Retail Trade 0 Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate 0 Business and Repair Services 0 Personal, Entertainment, and Recreation Services 0 Professional and Related Services: Health Services 0 Educational Services 9 (24.3%) Other Professional and Related Services 0 Public Administration 3 (8.1%) TOTAL EMPLOYED 37 (100%) Source: N.C. State Data Center, Office of State Budget and Management, Summary Tape File 3A NOTE: 1990 detailed employment Census data were not available. The number of individuals below poverty level can be an important economic indicator for a community. Table 6 provides the poverty status of Caswell Beach in 1980. Table 6 Poverty Status, Caswell Beach, 1980 Number of Income Level Individuals Income below 75% of poverty level 0 (0%) Income between 75% and 124% of poverty level 10 (8. 9%) Income between 125% and 149% of poverty level 4 (3. 6%) Income between 150% and 199% of poverty level 18 (16.1%) Income 200% of poverty level and above 80 (71. 4%) TOTAL, 112 (100%) Source: N.C. State Data Center, Office of State Budget and Management, Summary Tape File 3A NOTE: 1990 detailed Census data were not available. As noted in Table 6, there were no individuals reported as having incomes below 75% of poverty level. The majority (71.4%) of Caswell Beach residents had incomes 200% and above that of the poverty level. However, as further delineated in the N.C. State Data Center's 1980 Census Summary, 5 persons were listed as having incomes below poverty level (falling in the 75%-100% range); those persons were also listed as 60 years old or older. Caswell Beach is a small residential community with no manufacturing or industrial concerns located in the town limits. Residents may rely on the major employers of Carolina Power and Light Company, and Pfizer, located on the outskirts of nearby Southport. Caswell Beach, by choice, has continued to remain a "bedroom" community. C. EXISTING LAND USE 1. Urban and Develooed Land a) Residential According to preliminary 1990 Census data, the numberofhousing units in Caswell Beach is 440, an increase of 347 units, or 373%, over the 1980 Census estimate of 93 units. Most of the land within the beach strand of Caswell Beach is designated for low density residential use — single-family in the eastern twothirds of the town and largely multi -family development within Caswell Dunes, Ocean Greens, and Oak Island Beach Villas, located in the western third of the town. b) Commercial Very little of the town's land area contains any commercial development. Commercial activity in Caswell Beach is limited to the concessions and restaurant at the Oak Island Golf Course. c) Industrial None of Caswell Beach's land area is used for industrial purposes. d) Public, Institutional, and Recreational Recreational use accounts for a large portion of Caswell Beach's land mass, with the expansive Oak Island Golf Course. The 1 I -acre U.S. Coast Guard Oak Island Station and the 248-acre N.C. Baptist Assembly, adjacent to although not part of Caswell Beach'sjurisdiction, are large public/institutional uses. The Caswell Beach Town Hall, also a public use, is located on lack B. Cook Road next to the Oak Island Beach Villas. Also, the parking lot at the CP&L pump station serves as a recreational use for beach access parking. The beach itself is also a public use. e) Public Transportation/Public Utilities/Private Utilities Land in this category includes the Carolina Power and Light Company (CP&L) discharge canal; the town's 8" water lines; and the wastewater treatment plants for Caswell Dunes, the Arboretum and Ocean Greens, and Oak Island Beach Villas; and 0.1673 mile (0.0688 milesurfaced and 0.0985 unsurfaced) of town -owned roadway and 2.05 miles of state -maintained roadway. f) Vacant Land Approximately 95%of the town of Caswell Beach is subdivided, and vacant unsubdivided land accounts for approximately 5%of Caswell Beach's land area. Themajority, of the unsubdivided land is not buildable as it lies in areas of environmental concern. 2. Existine Land Use Problems The Town of Caswell Beach has maintained land use controls through administration of its zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations. Thus, many of its land use compatibility problems have been eliminated as a result of the town's planning efforts. However, consideration should be given to the following existing land use issues: —Control of commercialization control of multi -family residential development —Development of traffic/parking plan at beach access points —Placement of underground utilities —Provision of a sewage system These problems are discussed under the policy statement section of this plan. 3. Development Potential Approximately 165 vacant lots are available for development. However, with no public sewage system, limited septic tank suitability, and limited other public facilities, Caswell Beach is not considered to have much development potential. Development constraints are discussed under Sections ID and IE of this plan. 4. Existing Ordinances and Land Use Controls Copies of the following ordinances and land use control documents can be found at the Caswell Beach Municipal Building. a) CAMA Land Use Plan The 1985 Land Use Plan Update for the Town of Caswell Beach superseded the 1980 plan and contained policy statements guiding growth and development for the town. This 1990 Sketch Plan updates and supersedes the 1985 Update. b) Building Ordinance The Town of Caswell Beach Building Ordinance, dated June 9, 1983; amended May 23, 1988; June 30, 1988; January 12, 1989; and April 12, 1990, sets forth regulatory codes governing methods of construction and minimum standards for buildings or structures in the town. c) Emergency Evacuation and Re-entry Plan The Town of Caswell Beach Emergency Evacuation and Re-entry Plan, adopted May 11, 1989, details the evacuation and re-entry procedures in the event of the threat of a severe storm or for other reasons. d) Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance The National Flood Insurance, Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, adopted February 11, 1988, outlines provisions to control activity in the natural flood plains and ensure that areas prone to flood conditions are protected. e) Subdivision Regulations The Town of Caswell Beach Subdivision Regulations, adopted August 11, 1983, establishes procedures and standards for the subdivision of land for Caswell Beach. f) Zoning Ordinance The Town of Caswell Beach Zoning Ordinance, adopted June 8, 1978, and amended in 1984, divides the town into zoning districts and outlines densities and/or uses for each district in order to provide for developmental control. It also includes a section on Planned Unit Development (PUD). g) Off -Road Vehicle Ordinance This ordinance, adopted November 6, 1975, prohibits off -road vehicles from the beach and dune areas year-round, except for emergency vehicles. D. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY L TTopogmphy/Geology Caswell Beach's jurisdiction is mostly flat, with its highest elevation approximately 20-25 feet above sea level; these elevations exist primarily in the primary and frontal dune areas along the oceanfront. The town's many low-lying areas are extremely susceptible to sea level rise. Flooding resulting from sea level rise may be a long -tern problem. Over the last 100 years, the sea level has risen approximately one foot. Most experts agree that the rate of sea level rise will increase over the next one hundred years. The maximum increase has been forecast to be as much as four to seven feet. An increase of that magnitude would be disastrous to the town. The impact of sea level rise has serious adverse implications for Caswell Beach. The rate of rise should be carefully monitored. 2. Flood Hazard Areas Caswell Beach contains many Flood -prone areas. The 1990 Flood Insurance Rate Map provided the following Flood zones: Zones AE Area of lOO-year flood; base flood elevations and flood hazard factors (FHF's) determined Zone X Areas of 500-year flood; areas of 100-year flood with average depths of less than one (1) foot or with drainage areas less than one square mile; and areas protected by levees from the 100-year flood Zone VE Coastal flood with velocity hazard (wave action); base flood elevations determined The Zone X flood area, in which Caswell Dunes, the Arboretum, and Ocean Greens are located, is depicted on the Existing Land Use Map. Zones AE and VE cannot be depicted on the land use map because of map size and scale. The Zone AE flood area covers the remainder of the Town's corporate area except for portions of the beachfront area within and forward of the primary or frontal dune; basically the ocean hazard area. Par of this beachfront property is located within the VE zone. A Flood Insurance Rate Map is available for review at the Caswell Beach Municipal Building. One area particularly subjected to flooding problems is a portion of State Road 1100 west of the CP&L pump station and east of the Caswell Dunes entrance. The road has been relocated once, but severe flooding persists. This problem is discussed further under "Development Constraints: Public Facilities". 3. a2lil� As discussed in the 1985 Land Use Plan Update, most of the soils (Kureb, Wando, and Newhan fine sands) in the developed areas of Caswell Beach are classified as suitable, with slight limitations for septic tank capability, but generally well -drained. Moderately suitable soils (Newhan-Corolla complex) are found mainly in the vicinity of Oak Island Beach Villas. Marginally suitable soils (Leon fine sand, dredge spoil, and Madeland) located in Caswell Beach require extensive drainage activity for any kind of urban use. Soils in the unsuitable category (Beach-Foredune association and Bohicket soils) are associated with the beach and dune area and with wetlands and marshes. 4. Manmade Hazards/Restrictions Other than the CP&L discharge station, there are no known manmade hazards located within Caswell Beach's jurisdiction. It should be noted that the nearby Cape Fear River channel provides shipping lanes for potentially hazardous substances. Also, the CP&L nuclear power plant, located just north of nearby Southport, is a potential hazard. 5. Fraefle Areas Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's) lying within Caswell Beach's jurisdiction include coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine shorelines, public trust areas, and ocean hazard areas. [Caswell Beach's planning jurisdiction does not contain any outstanding resource waters (ORW's).] a) Coastal Wetlands Coastal wetlands are defined as salt marshes regularly or irregularly flooded by tides, including wind tides. provided this shall not include hurricane or tropical stone tides. This area contains some, but not necessarily all, of the following marsh plant species: Cordgrass, Black Needlemsh, Glasswort, Salt Grass, Sea Lavendar, Buhush, Saw Grass, Cat -tail, Salt Meadow Grass, and Salt Reed Grass. The coastal wetlands are vital to the complex foodchain found in estuaries. They provide marine nursery areas and areessential to a sound commercial fishing industry. All of the coastal wetlands within Caswell Beach's jurisdiction are designated primary nursery areas by the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries. Coastal wetlands also serve as barriers against flood damage and control erosion between the estuary and uplands. b) Estuarine Waters Estuarine waters are generally those waters found in estuaries, bays, and salt water shorelines. They are the dominant component and bonding element of the entire estuarine system, integrating aquatic influences from both the land and the sea. The estuarine waters are among the most productive natural environments within Caswell Beach's planning jurisdiction. The waters support the valuable commercial and sports fisheries of the coastal area which are comprised of estuarine dependent species such as menhaden, flounder, shrimp, crabs, and oysters. Within Caswell Beach, all estuarine waters have been classified SA by the Division of Environmental Management. SA waters are considered suitable for shellfrshing for market purposes, primary recreation, aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, and secondary recreation. Through November 1, 1990, some areas of the Elizabeth River were open to shellfrshing. Individuals should verify with the North Carolina Division of Environmental Management Wilmington or Raleigh offices which areas of the Elizabeth River, if any, continue to be open to shellfishing. The CP&L drainage canal is permanently closed to shellfishing. All coastal wetlands within Caswell Beach and south of the Intracoastal Waterway and southern shore of the Elizabeth River are considered primary nursery areas. These water classifications and conditions are shown on the existing land use map. c) Estuarine Shorelines Estuarine shorelines are those non -ocean shorelines which are especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse effects of wind and water. They are intimately connected to the estuary. The area extends from the mean high water level or normal water level along the estuaries, sounds, bays, and brackish waters for a distance of 75 feet landward. Development within the estuarine shorelines influences the quality of estuarine life and is subject to the damaging processes of shorefront erosion and flooding. d) Public Trust Areas Public trust areas are all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder from the mean high water mark to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction; all natural bodies of water subject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean high water mark; all navigable natural bodies of water and lands thereunder to the mean high water level or mean water level as the case may be, except privately -owned lakes to which the public has no right of access; all water in artificially created bodies of water containing significant public fishing resources or other public resources which are accessible to the public by navigation from bodies of water in which the public has rights of navigation; and all waters in artificially created bodies of water in which the public has acquired rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other means. In determining whether the public has acquired rights in artificially created bodies of water, the following factors shall be considered: (1) the use of the body of water by the public, (2) the length of time the public has used the area, (3) the value of public resources in the body of water, (4) whether the public resources in the body of water are mobile to the extent that they can move into natural bodies of water, (5) whether the creation of the artificial body of water required permission from the state, and (6) the value of the body of water to the public for navigation from one public area to another public area. These areas are significant because the public has rights in these areas, including navigation and recreation. The public trust areas also support valuable commercial and sports fisheries, have aesthetic value- and are important resources for economic development. It is impossible to map the public trust area. The areas must be determined through in -field analysis and definition. e) Ocean Hazard Areas Ocean hazard areas consist of ocean dunes, beaches, and shorelines. Oceandunes include both primary dunes and frontal dunes. Primary dunes are the first mounds of sand located landward of the ocean beaches having an elevation equal to the mean flood level (in a stone having a one percent chance of being equaled orexceeded in any given space) for the area plus six feet. The primary dune extends landward to the lowest elevation in the depression behind that same mound of sand. In areas where there is a primary dune, that dune shall be deemed to be the frontal dune. Where there is no primary dune, the frontal dune is deemed to be the first mound of sand located landward of the ocean beach having sufficient vegetation, height, continuity and configuration to offer protective value. The dunes are essential to the protection of oceanfront areas. Ocean beaches and shorelines are lands consisting of unconsolidated soil materials that extend from the mean low water line landward to a point where either (1) the growth of vegetation occurs, or (2) a distinct change in slope or elevation alters the configuration of the land form, whichever is farther landward. Ocean hazard areas include high hazard flood areas, inlet hazard areas, and unvegetated beach areas. Approximately 10% of Caswell Beach lies in the ocean erodible and high hazard flood areas. A ponion of S.R. 1100 has been relocated once because of severe flooding. This problem is discussed further under public facilities development constraints. There is no inlet hazard area as Caswell Beach is not situated next to any dynamic ocean inlets. The entire length of Caswel I Beach is an ocean beach. f) Historic and Archaeological Sites Fort Caswell, which lies at the eastern end of Caswell Beach, outside of the corporate limits, was for many years the principal coast defense of the Cape Fear River. Since 1949, Fort Caswell has been owned by the N.C. Baptist Seaside Assembly and is utilized as a recreational and religious center for N.C. Baptists. In 1983, the North Carolina State legislature adopted H.B. 1277, which provided special legislation to give the Town of Caswell Beach extraterritorial jurisdiction at the Fort Caswell Baptist Center if the N.C. Baptist Seaside Assembly sells the property. The only historic area within Caswell Beach is the site of the Civil War period Fort Caswell. Only battery sites and concrete reinforced bunkers constructed during the Civil War remain. The fort was located on the Town's sound side shoreline between the current U.S. Coast Guard Station and the Town's eastern corporate limit line. g) 404 Corps of Engineers Wetlands 404 Corps of Engineers wetlands are areas covered by water or that have waterlogged soils for long periods during the growing season. Plants growing in wetlands are capable of living in soils lacking oxygen for at least part of the growing season. Some wetlands, such as swamps, are obvious. Others are sometimes difficult to identify because they may be dry during part of the year. Wetlands include, but are not limited to, bottomlands, forests, swamps, pocosins, pine savannahs, bogs, marshes, and wet meadows. Section 404 of the Clean Water Act requires that anyone interested in depositing dredged or fill material into "waters of the United States," including wetlands, must apply for and receive a permit for such activities. While there are scattered wetland areas located within Caswell Beach's planning jurisdiction, the specific locations of wetlands areas must be determined through on -site analysis. Wetlands are a significant natural resource because they provide recharge areas for groundwater; serve as filter traps for sediment, pesticides and other pollutants; provide non-structural flood control; buffer against shoreline erosion; serve as buffer zones between upland activities and valuable aquatic systems; and provide habitats for numerous furbearing animals, endangered species, and other wildlife. 6. Areas of Resource Potential a) Agricultural and Forest Lands There are no productive agricultural or forest lands within Caswell Beach's jurisdiction. b) Public Parks There are no public parks located within Caswell Beach which have regional or county -wide significance. However, the Fort Caswell Baptist Assembly Center, a private church -owned facility, is located immediately east of the Town and attracts visitors from across North Carolina and the southeastern United States. c) Marine Resources There are substantial amounts of regularly flooded saltwater marshes located between the Caswell Beach land areas and the Intracoastal Waterway. These areas are designated primary nursery areas and are a significant marine resource and should be protected. E. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: PUBLIC FACILITIES 1. Water Supply The town's water supply is connected to a part of Brunswick County's water system, which draws potable water from the Castle Hayne aquiferand from the Cape FearRiver. With both the county's surface treatment plant and its well treatment plant, the combined design capacity is 30 million gallons per day. Caswell Beach's peak quarter usage for July/August/September 1990 was 11,923,044 gallons. This represents an average usage of approximately 130,000 gallons per day, or 0.43% of the total design capacity of the county's system. There is no water allocation or limit for town purchase of county water. The town currently has 152 water customers (this figure represents the current number of water bills issued - not the number of users). 2. Sewer Caswell Beach has no municipally-ownedw se age treatment plant or collection system. The single-family residences in the eastern two-thirds of town are served by septic tanks. The Caswell Dunes development has its own 65,000 gallon state -approved package treatment plant, which serves about 90%of the residences, with 10% on individual septic tanks. Ocean Greens and the Arboretum are both served by a 100,000-gallon state -approved package treatment plant. Oak Island Beach Villas also operate and maintain a separate package treatment plant. 3. Solid Waste Disposal Caswell Beach contracts with a private firm for garbage collection for residences only. Pick-up service is twice per week year-round. Caswell Beach's only commercial establishment, the Oak Island Golf Club, handles its own solid waste disposal. The county landfill (established in 1989) has a life expectancy of 5 years. Caswell Beach has implemented a recycling program designed to reduce the volume of waste being introduced into the waste cycle. 4. Schools Caswell Beach residents are served by the Brunswick County school system. Grades K-5 attend Southport Elementary School; grades 6-8 attend South Brunswick Middle School near Boiling Spring Lakes, and grades 9-12 attend South Brunswick High School, also located near Boiling Spring Lakes. Enrollment figures and capacities for each school are detailed in the following table. Table 7 1990 Enrollment/Design Capacity Schools Serving Caswell Beach Design 1990 Enrollment Capaci Southport Elementary School 848 837 (+1. 3%) South Brunswick Middle School 660 800 (47. 5%) South Brunswick High School 851 1000 (-15.9%) Source: Brunswick County School System Staff The middle and high schools are both under capacity as each has recently undergone some expansion projects. Southport Elementary School is slightly over capacity (1. 3%) and plans for expansion are underway. 5. Transportation The only town -maintained roads in Caswell Beach are R.L. Jones Street and Jack B. Cook Road. Private roads are found in the Caswell Dunes, Ocean Greens, and Arboretum developments. The only state -maintained road in Caswell Beach is N.C.S.R. 1100, also known as Caswell Beach Road. According to the Department of Transportation District Engineer's Office, the average annual daily traffic count (a design capacity is not available) occurring south of the intersection of N.C. Hwy. 133 and S.R. 1104 toward the entrance to Caswell Beach is 2000. (S.R. 1104 is Yaupon Drive in Yaupon Beach). On Caswell Beach Road, east of the Caswell Dunes entrance and west of the CP&L pumping station, there is an area subject to severe flooding. A portion of the road has been moved once to avoid the flooding problem: however, the problem persists. Even though the dunes have been reestablished, during high tide, the ocean water is approximately equal to or higherthan the road. Farther to the east, the road grade drops, allowing ponding even during light to moderate rains. If a major storm orhurricane occurs, ingress and egress to the residential area east of the CP&L station may be virtually impossible. Therefore, consideration should be given to either relocation of the road or provision of alternate means of ingress and egress. There are no bicycle paths located in Caswell Beach; however, the town has erected "Share -the -Road" signs for the benefit of cyclists. 6. Police, Fire. Emergency Medical Caswell Beach employs two full-time police officers - I chief and 1 patrolman- and one part-time officer. The town has three police vehicles. Caswell Beach has police aid agreements with Yaupon Beach and Long Beach. Police personnel are dispatched through a central dispatch in Long Beach. Caswell Beach has a fire protection contract with the Yaupon Beach Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., a private entity which is backed up by the Long Beach and Southport volunteer fire departments. Fire department personnel as well as the rescue squad are also dispatched through a central dispatch in Long Beach. The town is served by the Long Beach Rescue Squad for emergency medical services. The town Board of Commissioners is satisfied that the police, fire, and emergency medical services are adequate to serve the town throughout the planning period. 7. Recreation There are currently four town -owned beach access points in Caswell Beach. Also, at the CP&L pump station site, there is a 30-carbeach access parking lot with two additional beach access points on the oceanfront side. The 107-acre Oak Island Golf Course, with a clubhouse in addition to an 18-hole golf course, provides additional recreation for the area. 8. Drainage The area of Caswell Beach Road locatedjust west of the CP&L pumping station is subject to severe flooding. Most of the Town's area is less than 15 feet above sea level; therefore, the town must be sensitive to stormwater regulations. The town currently has no separate stormwater ordinance. 9. Health Services For minor surgery or emergencies, Caswell Beach residents travel to nearby J. Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital in Southport or to Brunswick Hospital, located in Supply. The Dosher Memorial Hospital is financially supported by the residents of Caswell Beach. In 1976, the voters of Smithville Township (including Southport and Oak island) voted to tax themselves for the improvement and financial support of the hospital. The passage of the referendum placed the hospital under the control of a township Board of Trustees who are publicly elected, non -partisan, and are not compensated. The present hospital is a modern, well-equipped 40-bed facility with 100 employees in over 20 different departments and service areas. For more major medical care, residents travel to New Hanover Memorial Hospital or the Cape Fear Memorial Hospital in Wilmington, approximately 35 miles away. Private physicians and medical specialists are located in both Southport and Wilmington. SECTION II. PROJECTED LAND DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS A. PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT 1. Demographic Trends Table 8 provides the estimated population for Caswell Beach through 2000. Table 8 Total Year -Round Population Projections, 1990-2000, Caswell Beach and Brunswick County Percentage Increase Year -Round Population Overall 1990- 1995- 1990- 1990* 1995 2000 1995 2000 2000 Caswell Beach 177 228 269 28.8% 17.9% 51.9% Brunswick County 50,681 67,447 74,914 33.1 % 11.1 % 47.8 % Sources: N.C. State Data Center, Office of State Budget and Management Brunswick County Planning Department, "Population and Housing Counts, 1980-1988" T. Dale Holland Consulting Planners * 1990 Post Census Local Review, Preliminary Housing Unit and Group Quarters Population Counts for Caswell Beach and Brunswick County, NC Like most municipalities in Brunswick County, Caswell Beach's population is expected to increase by over one-half (58.2%) by 2000. However, consistent with previous town policies and with the 1990 Land Use Plan survey results, the town of Caswell Beach desires low density growth. 2. Commercial and Industrial Land Use Consistent with the Caswell Beach citizens' attitude survey, no majorcommercial or industrial development is expected to occur in Caswell Beach over the planning period. No new land use changes are anticipated. 3. Housing Trends Since September, 1988, thirty-four building permits have been issued in Caswell Beach; 19 of which (55%) were for new construction. All of the houses permitted have been built. The number of housing units appears to be adequate to keep up with the town's desire for low density growth. 4. Public Land Use Public land use is not expected to change substantially during the planning period. 5. Areas Likely to Experience M44or Land Use Changes Over the 10-year planning period, if the rate of erosion (approximately 2 feet per year) continues, there may be a significant amount of beachfront lost. Traffic will also increase, which may become a significant problem if a major storm should occur; ingress/egress to and from homes and off Oak Island may be difficult. No major changes in land use patterns, however, are expected to occur over the planning period. B. PROJECTED PUBLIC FACILITIES NEEDS/AVAILABILITY Caswell Beach's growth forecast for the planning period will place increased burden on municipal services, although that burden will not demand any immediate plans for expansion or improvement. The town's water supply should be adequate; Caswell Beach purchases water from Brunswick County and the town has experienced no water shortage even during peak seasonal usage. The town anticipates only low density growth and supply is expected to keep up with the increase in demand. The current methods of sewage disposal (septic tanks and package treatment plants) should be replaced by centralized sewage treatment. Two options appear to be feasible for the provision of central sewer service. First, the Town could cooperate with the towns of Yaupon Beach and Long Beach to construct a central sewage treatment and collection system to serve all of Oak Island. A second option could be to tie into one ormore of the existing privately owned and operated package treatment plants to provide service to those homes presently on septic tanks. This could only be accomplished through negotiation with owners of the package treatment plants. (Refer to Section VI for survey results.) Solid waste disposal in the county's landfill will be adequate until 5 years into the planning period; then, a new site must be found as the landfill will have reached its dumping capacity. Community facilities such as recreational facilities, fire and police protection, schools, and medical services as they exist now should be adequate to accommodate projected growth over the planning period. C. REDEVELOPMENT ISSUES There is no need for redevelopment in Caswell Beach. Eighty eight percent of Caswell Beach's housing stock is less than 10 years old, and the town has virtually no commercial district (the only commercial activity is the Oak Island Golf Course pro shop). Of concern is the possibility of damage following a hurricane or othernatural disaster, in that event, Caswell Beach would encourage reconstruction of existing structures which meet existing town Building Code, CAMA, and State Building Code requirements. In addition, the town would consider replacing destroyed overhead utilities with underground utilities. SECTION III. INTRODUCTION TO POLICY STATEMENTS This section of the plan is intended to provide policies which will address growth management and protection of the environment. The policies should be based on the objectives of the citizens of Caswell Beach and satisfy the objectives of the Coastal Resources Commission. It should be emphasized that the policy statements are extremely important and have a day -today impact on individual citizens within the town's planningjui isdiction. The statements have an impact in several areas, including: -CAMA minor and major permitting as required by N.C.G.S. 113A-1 I8 prior to undertaking any development in any area of environmental concern. -Establishment of local planning policy. -Review of proposed projects requiring state or federal assistance or approval to determine consistency with local policies. -Policy implementation brings with it political and financial management implications for the local govern- ment. In order to comply with 15A NCAC 7B planning requirements, all local governments must specify stated development policies under each one of five broad topics. These topics include: ° Resource Protection ° Resource Production and Management ° Economic and Community Development ° Continuing Public Participation ° Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans Based on the analysis of existing conditions and trends, results of the citizens' attitude survey, and discussion with the town's Board of Commissioners, the policies outlined in the following section have been formulated to provide a guide foradvising and regulating development of available land resources in Caswell Beach throughout the current planning period, or through 2000. A. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS 1. Physical Limitations Soils• To mitigate existing septic tank problems and other restrictions on development posed by soil limitations, Caswell Beach will: (a) Enforce all current regulations of the N.C. State Building Code and Brunswick County Health Department for all matters relating to septic tank installation/replacement in areas with soils restrictions. (b) Coordinate all development activity with appropriate county and state regulatory personnel. (c) Cooperate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the regulation/enforcement of the 404 wetlands permit process. Flood Hazard Areas: (a) Caswell Beach will coordinate any development within the special flood hazard area with the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management, FEMA, and the U.S. Corps of Engineers. (b) Caswell Beach will continue to enforce its existing zoning and flood damage prevention ordinances and follow the storm hazard mitigation plan. (See Subsection D, Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans). Groundwater/Protection of Potable water Supplies; Caswell Beach will strive to conserve its surficial ground- water resources by supporting CAMA and N.C. Division of Environmental Management stormwater run-off regulations. Manmade Hazards: Caswell Beach will support the technical requirements and state program approval for underground storage tanks (Chapter 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 280 and 281), and any subsequent state regulations concerning underground storage tanks adopted during the planning period. Stornwater Runoff: The town will support state regulations relating to stormwater runoff resulting from development (Stormwater Disposal Policy 15 NCAC 2H.001-.1003). Solid Waste Disposal, The town will support only new landfill sites to serve Brunswick County and its municipalities which will not adversely affect valuable groundwater resources. The Board of Commissioners reserves the right to comment on any site which is proposed for such purpose. Cultural/Historic Resources: Except for the Civil War Fort Caswell site, there are no known cultural or historic resources located within the town of Caswell Beach. The town of Caswell Beach will notify the Department of Archives and History of any land disturbing activities in the vicinity of the Civil War Fort Caswell site. In addition, developers will be requested to coordinate land disturbing activities with the N.C. Department of Archives and History. Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas• The town of Caswell Beach opposes any industrial development within the town. 2. Miscellaneous Resource Protection Package Treatment Plant Use: The Town of Caswell Beach will support the construction of package treatment plants which are approved and permitted by the State Division of Environmental Management and by the Brunswick County Health Department/Division of Health Services. If any package plants are approved, Caswell Beach supports requirement of a specific contingency plan specifying how ongoing private operation and maintenance of the plant will be provided, and detailing provisions for assumption of the plant into a public system should the private operation fail. Fencing: Except for sand fencing, the town of Caswell Beach opposes the construction of fencing (including fence lighting) in ocean hazard areas, coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and public trust waters. The repair or replacement of fencing existing on October 1, 1990, shall be exempt from this policy. Marina and Floating Home Development: Caswell Beach will enforce the following policies to govern floating homes and marina development. Marinas are considered to be any publicly or privately owned dock constructed to accommodate more than ten boats, as defined by 15A NCAC 7H.208(b)(5). (a) Caswell Beach opposes the construction of both upland and open water marinas within its planning jurisdiction. (b) Caswell Beach opposes the construction of dry stack storage facilities for boats associated either with or independent of marinas. (c) Caswell Beach opposes the location of floating structures in all public trust areas and estuarine waters. Floating structures are defined as any structure or vessel used, designed, and occupied as a permanent dwelling unit, business, office, or source of any occupation or any private or social club, which floating structure or vessel is primarily immobile and out of navigation or which functions substantially as a land structure while moored or docked on waters within county jurisdiction. Floating structures shall not be used commercially or inhabited in one place for more than 15 days. Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands: Caswell Beach opposes any construction on sound or estuarine islands. This policy will be supported through enforcement of the town's zoning ordinance. Bulkhead Construction: Caswell Beach opposes the construction of bulkheads in all conservation areas including ocean hazard and estuarine shorelines. Sea Level Rise: (a) Caswell Beach will continuously monitor sea level rise and revise as necessary all local building and land use related ordinances to establish setback standards, long-term land use plans, density controls, buffer vegetation protection requirements, and building designs which will facilitate the movement of structures. (b) Caswell Beach opposes the construction of bulkheads which would prohibit migrating shorelines, including bulkhead construction behind coastal wetlands. B. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICY STATEMENTS 1. Recreation Resources: Caswell Beach will continue to maintain its existing beach accessways, beach access parking lot, and the public beach itself. 2. Productive Agricultural Lands: There are no productive agricultural lands found in Caswell Beach; therefore, no policy statement is necessary. 3. Productive Forest Lands: There are no productive forest lands found in Caswell Beach; therefore, no policy statement is necessary. 4. Residential. Commercial. and Industrial Development Impacts on Resources, (a) Residential development and accessory residential uses which meet 15A NCAC 7H use standards will be allowed in estuarine shoreline, estuarine water, and public trust areas. All bulkhead construction shall be prohibited. All commercial and industrial development will be discouraged within the town of Caswell Beach. (b) Caswell Beach opposes the construction of any signs in the coastal wetlands conservation area. 5. Marine Resource Areas: (a) Caswell Beach supports the use standards for estuarine and public trust areas as specified in 15A NCAC 7H.0207. (b) Caswell Beach reserves the right to review and comment on policies and requirements of the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries which govern commercial and recreational fisheries and activities, including trawling activities. (e) The town of Caswell Beach supports the designation of its beach area as a sea turtle sanctuary by the State of North Carolina. (d) The town of Caswell Beach discourages the construction of any drainage ditches which discharge directly into primary nursery areas. 6. Peat or Phosphate Mining There are no peat or phosphate deposits located within Caswell Beach's planning jurisdiction. 7. Off -Road Vehicles Caswell Beach prohibits off -road vehicles in the beach and dune areas, under the terns of a town ordinance adopted November 6, 1975. This ordinance excludes emergency vehicles. C. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICY STATEMENTS General, Caswell Beach will support growth and development only at low densities, consistent with the town's R-8 and R-12 zoning classifications. 1. Water SUPDIV There are no significant constraints to development or land development issues relating to the town's potable water supply. The county's water system should continue to provide adequate water supply throughout the planning period. (a) The town supports the regional concept of water distribution in Brunswick County. (b) The town will require users or property owners to pay for the expense of connecting to the public water system. (c) The town will require developers of new subdivisions to install water lines at their own expense. 2. Sewer System The town of Caswell Beach supports the development of central sewer service and believes the most practical way to develop such a system is to include all of Oak Island: Long Beach, Yaupon Beach, the N.C. Baptist Assembly, and the Oak Island Coast Guard Station. 3. Stormwater Caswell Beach will cooperate with the NCDOT, the North Carolina Division of Environmental Manage- ment, and other state agencies in mitigating the impact of stormwater runoff on all conservation classified areas. The town will support the Division of Environmental Management stormwater runoff retention permitting process through its zoning permit system. 4. Energy Facility Siting and Development (a) There are no electric generating plants located in Caswell Beach's planning jurisdiction therefore, no policy statement is necessary. However, the CP&L discharge canal does extend through Caswell Beach. The town requests full disclosure of any plans to alter or add to the use of the canal. (b) In the event that off -shore oil or gas is discovered, Caswell Beach will not oppose drilling operations and onshore support facilities in Brunswick County for which an Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared with a finding of no significant impact on the environment. Caswell Beach supports and requests full disclosure of development plans, with mitigative measures that will be undertaken to prevent adverse impacts on the environment, the infrastructure, and the social systems of Brunswick County. Caswell Beach also requests full disclosure of any adopted plans. Offshore drilling and the development of onshore support facilities in Brunswick County may have severe costs for the town and county as well as advantages. The costs must be home by the company(ies) which profits from offshore drilling and onshore support facilities. 5. Redevelopment of Developed Areas The only significant redevelopment issue facing Caswell Beach through 2000 would be reconstruction following a hurricane or other natural disaster. The town will allow the reconstruction of any structures demolished by natural disaster which will comply with all applicable local and state regulations. The town will not spend any local funds in order to acquire unbuildable lots but will accept donations of such unbuildable lots. Caswell Beach will work with any owners who may have to move any threatened structures to safer locations. The town will support reconstruction only at densities as specified by current zoning regulations. 6. Estuarine and Ocean Access Caswell Beach supports the state's shoreline access policies as set forth in 15A NCAC 7M. The town will conform to CAMA and other state and federal environmental regulations affecting the development of estuarine and ocean access areas. The town believes that its existing ocean access parking area and five access walkways (one unimproved) are adequate to meet pedestrian shoreline access needs. 7. Tvoes and Locations of Desired Industry Caswell Beach opposes industrial development of any type. This policy is supported by the Caswell Beach zoning ordinance. 8. Commitment to State and Federal Programs Caswell Beach is generally receptive to state and federal programs, particularly those which provide improvements to the town. The town will continue to support fully such programs, especially the following: North Carolina Department of Transportation road and bridge improvement programs; the CAMA planning process and permitting programs; and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulatory and permitting efforts. 9. Assistance in Channel Maintenance (a) Caswell Beach will support efforts of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and state officials to provide proper channel maintenance. However, the Town opposes the establishment of any dredge spoil sites within itsjurisdiction. The Town encourages the use of acceptable spoil material for beach nourishment. However, the town opposes any dredging of Jay Bird Shoals or any other area which would encourage beach erosion. 10. Tourism (a) Caswell Beach supports projects that will improve its existing public access areas. (b) Caswell Beach will continue to support the activities of the North Carolina Division of Travel and Tourism. 11. Transportation (a) Caswell Beach supports the maintenance of its two municipal roads, Robert L. Jones Street and Jack B. Cook Road; and supports (although not financially) the North Carolina Department of Transportation and private development organizations in their efforts to maintain other roads in the town. (b) The town of Caswell Beach supports the construction of a second bridge to provide access to Oak Island. (c) The town of Caswell Beach supports relocation or other improvements to Caswell Beach Road in the vicinity of the CP&L pumping station to lessen or eliminate the problem of flooding and washout. The east end of the town is isolated during such periods of flooding. D. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION PLANS 1. Storm Hazard Mitigation In order to minimize the damage potentially caused by the effects of a hurricane orother major storm, Caswell Beach proposes the following policies: High Winds Caswell Beach supports enforcement of the N.C. State Building Code. The town will continue to enforce the State Building Code on wind -resistant construction with design standards of 110 mph wind loads. Floodine Caswell Beach is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance program and enforces a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Caswell Beach also supports continued enforcement of the CAMA and 404 Wetlands development permit processes in areas potentially susceptible to flooding. In reviewing development proposals, the town will work to reduce development in areas susceptible to flooding. In addition, the town will encourage the public purchase of land (with state or federal funds) in the most hazardous areas. Evacuation Plans The town will coordinate evacuation planning with the Brunswick County Emergency Management Coordinator. The town will encourage multi -family developments to post evacuation instructions which identify routes and the location of available public shelters. Implementation: Storm Hazard Mitieation I) Caswell Beach will continue to enforce the standards of the State Building Code 2) The town will support enforcement of State and Federal programs which aid in mitigation of hurricane hazards, including CAMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 404 permit process, FEMA, as well as local ordinances such as zoning and flood damage prevention regulations. 3) The town will discourage high density development in high hazard areas through implementation of the town's zoning ordinance, utilizing low density zones in those areas. 4) Caswell Beach supports the public acquisition (with state and/or federal funds) of high hazard areas when voluntary acquisition can be accomplished. The town discourages condemnation of land for this purpose. 2. Post -Disaster Reconstruction Plan In the event of a major storm, Caswell Beach will follow its Emergency Evacuation and Re-entry Plan, adopted May 11, 1989. A copy of the plan is available for review at the Caswell Beach Municipal Building. E. EFFECTIVENESS OF 1985 POLICY STATEMENTS The Caswell Beach 1985 Land Use Plan Policy Statements were divided into seven categories. The first category was resource protection. Within the AEC's, the policies allowed uses which met the minimum use standards of 15 NCAC 7H. The town did not have a specific policy on marinas and mobile homes. It was stated that both would be reviewed on a case by case basis. There was not a policy on the development of sound and estuarine islands. The town believes it has effectively supported that 15 NCAC 7H use standards. The 1990 plan includes policies for marinas, floating homes, and development of sound and estuarine islands. The second category was physical constraints to development. The town focused on improving drainage planning and allowing state approved package treatment plants. There was not a policy on septic tanks. The town has accomplished improved drainage in subdivisions and developments. The third policy area was resource production and management. The policies prohibited off -road vehicles in beach and dune areas, supported low -density residential development and minimal commercial development. These policies have been effectively implemented. The provision of services to development had as its most important policy the development of a central sewer system to serve Long Beach, Yaupon Beach, the N.C. Baptist Assembly and the Oak Island Coast Guard Station. This policy was not implemented. Central sewer service continues to be a need. Other policies included continued support of the Brunswick County school system, the Brunswick County landfill, the county water system, and the Yaupon Beach fire and rescue squads. The economic and community development category focused on maintaining low -density residential development and the discouragement of any commercial development except within the commercial zone on the west end of the beach. This has been accomplished. The sixth category was growth patterns. The expressed intent of the 1985 plan was to maintain low -density development with minimal commercial development which should be isolated from residential areas. This has been effectively accomplished. The final category was post -disaster reconstruction and storm hazard mitigation planning. Caswell Beach has been satisfied with the 1985 plan and its storm hazard policies. The town has effectively coordinated disaster and storm hazard mitigation planning with the Brunswick County Emergency Management Coordinator's office. ATE LIMIT LINE CORPOR� The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. F. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES As the initial step in the preparation of this document, Caswell Beach prepared and adopted a "Citizen Participation Plan" The plan outlined the methodology for citizen involvement. Public involvement was generated through public information meetings, advertising in a local newspaper, and through means of a land use survey distributed to resident owners and renters, and non-resident property owners. (Survey results are contained in Section VI). Meaningful input was provided by the survey results to guide the development of the plan. A public information meeting, advertised in the State Port Pilot, was conducted at the outset of the project on November 16, 1989, at the town's municipal building. Subsequently, meetings of the Planning Board, open to the public, were conducted in December, 1989, and January, February, March, and April, 1990, to discuss development of the land use plan. Another public information meeting, advertised in the State Port Pilot, was held on May 30, 1990, to review and comment on the draft plan before its submittal to the Coastal Resources Commission. The preliminary plan was submitted to the Coastal Resources Commission for comment on June 30, 1990. Following receipt of CRC comments, the plan was amended, and a formal public hearing on the final document was conducted on December 13, 1990. The public hearing was advertised in the State Port Pilot on November 14, 1990. The plan was approved by the Caswell Beach Board of Commissioners on December 13, 1990, and submitted to the Coastal Resources Commission for certification. The plan was certified on February 1, 1991. Citizen input will continue to be solicited, primarily through the Planning Board, with advertised and adequately publicized public meetings held to discuss special land use issues and to keep citizens informed. SECTION IV. LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM The CAMA regulations require the establishment of a specific land classification system to support the local government's policy statements. This system should reflect developing land use patterns within a community. The CAMA 15A NCAC 7B regulations state: "The land classification system provides a framework to be used by local governments to identify the future use of all lands. The designation of land classes allows the local government to illustrate their policy statements as to where and to what density they want growth to occur, and where they want to conserve natural and cultural resources by guiding growth." The 15A NCAC 7H requirements provide for the following land classifications: developed, urban transition, limited transition, community, rural, rural with services, and conservation. The developed and conservation land classifications apply in Caswell Beach's jurisdiction. See Land Classification Map (all areas which are not classified as conservation are developed). Developed: Areas included in the developed land classification are currently urban in character, with no or minimal undeveloped land remaining. Municipal types of services are in place or are expected to be provided within the next five to ten years. Land uses include residential, commercial, industrial, and other urban land uses at high or moderate densities. Residential densities are allowed in excess of an average of three dwelling units per acre, with a minimum single-family residential lot size of 8,000 square feet. Conservation: The following areas of environmental concern are included in the conservation classification: Coastal Wetlands: This classification includes all areas of coastal wetlands which include any salt marsh or other marsh subject regular or occasional flooding by tides, including wind tides. However, tidal flooding is understood not to include hurricane or tropical storm tides. Within Caswell Beach, all coastal wetlands are also primary nursery areas. Only development in accordance with 15A NCAC 7H.0208 shall be allowed in areas classified as coastal wetlands, except that no fencing, signage, nor marinas will be allowed in coastal wetlands. Estuarine Shorelines: All areas lying 0-75 feet landward of the mean high water level of estuarine waters not designated as Outstanding Resource Waters are classified as estuarine shorelines. Because of map size and scale, these areas cannot be accurately mapped. Precise locations must be determined in the field. Development in accordance with 15A NCAC 7H.0209 will be allowed, except that no bulkheading nor marinas will be allowed. Estuarine and Public Trust Waters: All public trust areas and estuarine waters are included in this classification. All waters of Caswell Beach are classified as estuarine waters as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0206 or public trust areas as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0207. Development in accordance with 15A NCAC 7H.0208 use standards will be allowed in estuarine and public trust waters, except that no marinas, signage, nor fencing will be allowed. Ocean Hazard Areas: These areas include lands along the Atlantic shoreline where, because of their special vulnerability to erosion or other adverse effects of sand, wind and water, uncontrolled or incompatible development could unreasonably endanger life or property. These areas include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other lands with excessive erosion or flood damage. Development shall be permitted which is allowed by 15A NCAC 7H.0306, except that fencing (other than sand fencing) is not permitted in ocean hazard areas. Outstanding Resource Waters: There are no outstanding resource waters (ORW's) in Caswell Beach's planning jurisdiction. SECTION V: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS As required by 15A NCAC 7B planning guidelines, the Caswell Beach land use plan must relate the policies section to the land classification map and provide some indication as to which land uses are appropriate in each land classification. A. DEVELOPED CLASS Caswell Beach's primary growth should continue to occur within the corporate limits in Caswell Dunes, Ocean Greens, and the Arboretum. Those areas are classified as developed. The developed class can accommodate low to medium density development, with some limited, scattered multi -family sites. The town's zoning ordinance is consistent with the land classification map and supports the distribution of land uses. B. CONSERVATION CLASS The conservation class is designated to provide for effective long-term management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas which include Areas of Environmental Concern. Development in the estuarine system should be restricted to such uses as piers and other water -dependent uses which satisfy 15A NCAC 7H use standards, and which are associated with or supportive of residential development. However, bulkhead construction will not be permitted in any conservation areas. The town opposes any construction on sound or estuarine islands. The conservation class policies and standards included in this plan are more restrictive than the 15A NCAC 7H use standards. SECTION VI: CITIZENS' SURVEY RESPONSE SUMMARY A citizens' survey was conducted in February and March, 1990, to solicit attitudes about land development issues in Caswell Beach. A total of 213 of 473 persons responded to the survey for a response rate of 45%. Highlights of the survey results follow. -93% (198 of 213) approve of the current mix of land uses in Caswell Beach (almost wholly residential, with condominiums developing near Yaupon Beach end, and single-family residences along beach strand) -92% (196 of 213) approve of present zoning controls in Caswell Beach (almost completely low density residential) -ranking of possible public shore access and recreation needs I build a boat access ramp for small sailboats only at the existing public parking access area 2 create a town park/beautification area 2 improve existing ocean access areas 4 build more ocean access areas 5 other -68.5% (146 of 213) responded favorably to including the following statement in the 1990 Land Use Plan Update: "Caswell Beach supports the construction of wastewater collection and treatment facilities and believes the most practical way to develop such a system is on an island -wide basis. Such a project would include: Long Beach, Yaupon Beach, the N.C. Baptist Assembly, and the Oak Island Coast Guard Station." -69.5% (148 of 213) responded favorably to paying a fair share of the cost of placing overhead utilities underground.