WSCO_CHAT_WSWP boundary change request summarydecision_20230307

..TITLE
Vote on a request by Sean McCall representing Manns Chapel II LLC to submit a
watershed district map amendment for property located at 11399 US 15-501 N to the
Environmental Management Commission for approval.
..ABSTRACT
Action Requested:
Vote on a request by Sean McCall representing Manns Chapel II LLC to submit a
watershed district map amendment for property located at 11399 US 15-501 N to the
Environmental Management Commission for approval.
Introduction & Background:
An application has been submitted requesting an amendment to the watershed
protection map to adjust the watershed boundary on parcels 2641 and 2642 located on
the southwest corner of Manns Chapel Rd and US 15-501 N. The proposed amendment
is requested because the mapped watershed boundary between the WS-II Balance of
Watershed (BW) and WS-IV Protected Area (PA) does not correspond to the drainage
pattern on the property. Updated guidance from NC Department of Environmental
Quality (DEQ) staff requires approval of a watershed map boundary revision by the NC
Environmental Management Commission (EMC) prior to the local government
scheduling a public hearing to consider the amendment.
Discussion & Analysis:
This is the first step in a new multi -step process outlined by NCDEQ staff. The applicant
has provided an application, survey map showing the existing topography of the
property, and a cover letter explaining the change (included as attachments). Once the
EMC considers the request, the Commissioners can schedule a public hearing to
amend the watershed protection map.
The parcels are currently used for a gas station and the owner intends to redevelop the
site. The WS-II BW watershed has limitations on allowable uses and lower built upon
area limits than the WS-IV PA district. As part of the site redevelopment, the owner
intends to use more of the property closest to the intersection for commercial use.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan:
Diversify the tax base and generate more quality, in -county jobs to reduce dependence
on residential property taxes, create economic opportunity and reduce out -commuting.
Recommendation:
Vote to approve planning staff forwarding the request to amend the watershed
protection boundary on parcels 2641 and 2642, located at 11399 US 15-501 N to the
NC Environmental Management Commission.