Are you interested in the appearance and functionality of the Holden Beach Causeway?  Take the survey here:  https://www.brunswickcountync.gov/survey-holden-beach-causeway-corridor/

The survey closes on Friday, June 23 and takes 10-15 minutes to complete.  

In addition, there will be two come-and-go public engagement sessions.

Public Engagement Workshop 1 – Thursday, June 22, 5–7 p.m. (Open House)

Public Engagement Workshop 2 – Thursday, July 27, 5–7 p.m. (Open House)

Both workshops will be at Sabbath Home Baptist Church Recreation Building – 990 Sabbath Home Road, Supply, 28462

As a reminder, the Causeway is not part of the Town of Holden Beach, and the Town has no control or input over this area.  The Causeway is unincorporated and governed by Brunswick County.

TOWN OF HOLDEN BEACH
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS’ REGULAR MEETING
HOLDEN BEACH TOWN HALL – PUBLIC ASSEMBLY
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 2023 – 5:00 P.M.

Click here for the Meeting Packet

Click here for the audio of the meeting

Click here for Public Comment via email

Commissioner Arnold was absent.

1.    Invocation

2.  Call to Order/ Welcome

3.    Pledge of Allegiance

4.    Agenda Approval Item #9 was removed from the agenda (already approved)

5.    Approval of Minutes All approved as written.

a.     Minutes of the Regular Meeting of May 16, 2023
b.     Minutes of the Special Meeting of June 1, 2023

6.   Public Comments on Agenda Items

Sylvia Pate – Bulkheads Item #10.  She is a member of the P&Z Board and voted against sending this item forward.  She doesn’t know that this is actually a problem and recommends that P&Z look further into it.
Rick Shaver  – Bulkheads Item #10.  Canal property owner.  Feels the 20’ clearance is a major problem for Harbor Acres canals. 
Will Carter – Bulkheads Item #10.  Saw some of the new docks that cause problems.  Says that the CAMA rules make the proposed ordinance illegal.  He says docks should be limited to 25% the width of the canal.  Problems should go to Board of Adjustment. 

7.    Police Report – Chief Dixon  Busy with the summer season.  Commissioner Smith discussed the LSV issues and lack of enforcement.  Commissioner Dyer said the rental companies require the renters to sign off on the rules.

8.    Inspections Department Report – Inspections Director Evans   Island is still very busy.  34 new homes under construction and many remodels.  He is seeing an increase in renovations over new builds.  Permits for the Pier will be delivered by the end of the week.

9.    Discussion and Possible Approval of Ordinance 23-11, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2023 – 2024 – Town Manager Hewett (Removed from Agenda)

10. Discussion and Possible Scheduling of a Date to Hold a Public Hearing on Proposed Changes to Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Section 157.023 Bulkheads on Lots – Inspections Director Evans  The proposed ordinance is based on Ocean Isle Beach’s ordinance.  This has to go back to the Planning Board for a Consistency Statement and he recommends that P&Z look at it further.  Sent back to P&Z by consensus.

11. Discussion and Possible Scheduling of a Date to Hold a Public Hearing on Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Chapter 157 Zoning Code (Lot Coverage)  – Inspections Director Evans   There is an error in the memo, it should be 30% coverage going to 40%.  Director Evans explained the issues and reasons for approval.  The public hearing was set for the July Regular Meeting.

12. Discussion and Possible Setting of Date to Hold Interviews for Vacancies on Town Boards – Town Clerk Finnell There was a consensus to set interviews for 4:45 prior to the July Meeting.
 
13. Discussion and Possible Action on Second Season of Parking – Commissioner Dyer  –  She has heard of issues with parking in the 700 block, as well as where houses have been removed, and heard the comments on social media encouraging people to park under private homes.  The LSV signs have been updated to explain what an LSV is.  Jim Varner, of our Paid Parking vendor at Otto Connect spoke.  They have issued 400 citations, 10,000 people have parked.  75 citations were for things that the Town can also ticket for.   There has been a 4% violation rate, which he considers high.  More signs are not needed.  He thinks June was an exceptional month due to the high number of people visiting.  Chief Jeremy encourages people to call 911 if you see a parking problem because they dispatch all the calls for the County.  You can also call the number on the signs to reach Otto.  
a.     Parking on Private Property
b.     Parking in LSV Spots with Cars/Trucks
c.     Parking in Unmarked Areas

14. Public Comments on General Items
Rick Paarfus discussed the canal issues.  He discussed that the design of the canal depth could make a 25% rule ineffective.
Jim Bauer discussed the proposed increase in lot coverage and how that would impact runoff.  Also, he wanted to know if the water mains running west could be increased in size instead of building a new water tower.  It would be less expensive and more effectively increase head pressure at the West End.  Also, he has never seen a parking attendant.  He suggests uniforms and marked vehicles.
Keith Smith has concerns about the no-wake zones and the lack of signage on the ICW.  He also thinks it is confusing to get a CAMA permit. 
Will Carter would like the Board to approve a process for homeowners to put a notice on their dash to let them park in the Right of Way.  He also has talked to CAMA about the canal docks and agreed there is more work to be done.

15. Town Manager’s Report The dredge Miss Katie has finished dredging the Lockwood Folly Inlet.  She spent 3.5 weeks here dredging the inlet to 150’ wide and a minimum of 8’ deep.  He has requested the Coast Guard restore the marker buoys.  The 50,000 cubic yards of sand dredged was added in the nearshore near the Winding River area.  Regarding the sewer lift station project at Greensboro St., he met with the EPA and the hope to avoid the NEPA process has passed its first level of review.  He is hoping to bypass the NEPA review process and go to borrowing in a few months with construction to occur this winter.  He met with the Corps on the CRS Project.  The modeling is underway and the next meeting is March 24 when alternatives will be identified.  Tide Ridge paving is complete.

16. Mayor’s Comments Regarding why the Town doesn’t host fireworks on the Pier, liability and expense.  The Embers will play on Sunday night.  The Chapel is doing well; services are at 10:00am.

17. Board of Commissioners’ Comments
Commissioner Smith – LSV enforcement is so important.  Issue citations.  Let County or State come in if they don’t want to be bad guy.  Thanks to staff on budget issues.  There are a lot of dogs on the beach during the day.  Guests are digging holes.  He asks that the Rangers talk to those digging holes.  He encouraged everyone to be mindful of the weather.  The Island is full.  Please be careful and mindful of guests.  Has watched the boats the last few days on the waterway and people are not following the no-wake rules.  Miss Katie did a great job, looking forward to getting the buoys back.
Commissioner Murdock – On the canals, he is familiar with the issue and CAMA lets builders know what can go there.  Canals need a clear passage to get through.  The beach is full.
Commissioner Dyer – Support your local businesses.  Be respectful of private property and the beach. 

18. Adjournment

The Town of Holden Beach Board of Commissioners will meet Thursday, June 15 at 5:30PM for the Public Hearing on the 2023 – 2024 budget proposal and hold a Special Meeting to hear from the Pier architect.

At the budget workshop on June 1st, the Commissioners reduced the pier expenses by $1M and reduced the salary increase to 7.5%.  As a result of these changes, expenses now exceed revenues by $2.3M and are covered by using our fund balance savings.  To spread some of the Pier improvement expenses over more than one year, they discussed dividing the improvements into phases and wanted to talk to the Pier architect to discuss the possibility.   Click here for the meeting packet.

The Town’s proposed budget is approaching the finish line.  The Commissioners are meeting tomorrow Thursday, June 1^st, at 5:30 pm for a Budget Workshop.  There will be a public hearing on June 15^th, and the budget will likely be approved at the Commissioners’ meeting on June 21^st.  Here are the key points we have gleaned from the Town Manager’s Budget Message:

Revenues:

• New tax rate of 14 cents/$100 is a 16% tax increase over revenue neutral
• New tax rate will result in property tax revenues of $3.3M
• BPART revenue is estimated at $4M
• Paid parking revenue is estimated at $500K
• Other revenues (e.g., fees, permits, fines, etc.) are estimated at $1M

Expenses:

• Total debt service payments are $3.6M
• Pier renovation & repair expenses are estimated at $2.1M
• Block Q Phase 1 expenses are estimated at $300K
• Town salaries increase 11.9% (5% merit and 6.9% COLA)
• One new position will be added 

Key Points:

• Debt service amount of $3.6M exceeds property tax revenue amount of $3.3M
• Expenses exceed revenues by $3.3M (equal to the property tax revenue amount)
• The $3.3M deficit is due to debt service and major capital projects
• The $3.3M in deficit spending is being covered by:
• • Transferring $1M from the General Fund balance
  • Transferring $1M from the BPART Fund balance
  • Transferring $347K from the Beach & Inlet Capital Reserve Fund
  • Water & Sewer borrowing of $1M
• This level of deficit spending is not sustainable 

Click here for a copy of the Budget Message.  Here are the Commissioner emails if you would like to provide them with your input. Mayor Alan Holden, Commissioners Rick Smith, Brian Murdock, Page Dyer, and Gerald Arnold.

Send a copy to the Town Clerk if you would like it included in the meeting packet. 

TOWN OF HOLDEN BEACH
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS’ REGULAR MEETING
HOLDEN BEACH TOWN HALL – PUBLIC ASSEMBLY

TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023 – 5:00 P.M.

1.    Invocation

2.    Call to Order/ Welcome

3.    Pledge of Allegiance

4.    Agenda Approval Approved as amended.  Amended to flip the order of #7 and #8 and added #13A. 

5.    Approval of Minutes Approved as written.
a.     Minutes of the Special Meeting of March 13, 2023
b.     Minutes of the Regular Meeting/Public Hearing of March 14, 2023
c.     Minutes of the Special Meeting of March 27, 2023

6.    Public Comments on Agenda Items Brent Shaver spoke on #15 trailered restrooms.  He would like to know when they would be used and for how long.
 
7.    Discussion and Possible Award of Contract for Roadway Work (Tide Ridge Drive, Pointe West Drive and Ranger Street) – Public Works Director Clemmons Approved unanimously for $126,000.

8.    Discussion and Possible Action on Agreement for Stormwater Management & Consulting Services between the Town and McGill Associates – Public Works Director Clemmons  Approved unanimously for $131,200 for a Stormwater Plan.

9.    Police Report – Chief Dixon Saw an increase in parking problems with people parking illegally – not paid parking.  They are down an officer on a long-term basis.  In the process of hiring another officer.  He reminded everyone about the laws and safety issues of Low Speed Vehicles (LSVs).

10. Inspections Department Report – Inspections Director Evans 358 total permits in process.  191 OBW has been condemned and he hopes to have it removed soon.  There are problems with floating docks in the canals.  Plans to set a pier head line with input from the Planning and Zoning Board.

11. Discussion and Possible Action on Sending a Potential Stormwater Management Percentage Increase to the Planning & Zoning Board for Review – Inspections Director Evans Currently impervious surface at 30%, proposing increase to 40%.  Some towns have a higher impervious percentage.  Approved unanimously to be sent to the Planning and Zoning Board.

12. Discussion and Possible Action on Facility Condition Inspection Checklist for Town-Owned Properties and Facilities – Inspections Director Evans The draft list has been created. 

13. Discussion and Possible Action on Parcourse Fitness Trail Area – Commissioner Murdock Approximately half of the course has been removed due to erosion.  The area has been delineated and a retaining wall could be added in a few months when the maps are verified. 

13A.  Water Resources Development Grant.  The Lockwood Folly Inlet is in a critically unsafe condition.  The Corps says they can’t dredge it.  The Town has a Shallow Draft Permit it can use and has contacted Dare County about using their Miss Katie dredge.  The cost would be $850,500. A state grant can be applied for that would cover 75% with $212,625 being our part.  Brunswick County could help with 25% local share.  Ordinance 23-09 was approved unanimously to move forward with the dredging.

14. Discussion and Possible Action on CAMA Contract for the Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Grant (Hatteras Ramp and Access) – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson This is the matching grant for the Hatteras Ramp and ADA walkway at the Pier.  Approved unanimously.

     a.     Ordinance 23-08, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 22-14, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2022 – 2023 (Amendment No. 14)

15. Discussion and Possible Action on Purchasing Trailer Bathrooms for Use on Town-Owned Properties – Commissioner Murdock Other beaches have nicer restrooms facilities.  Ours are “filthy and disgusting”.  These trailers would be hooked into the Town’s water and sewer system.  They are air conditioned and ADA compliant.  At a minimum these could be at the Pier and possibly the East End.  Motion to have Town procure at least one bathroom that can hook up to sewer and water for up to $100,000.  Carried unanimously.

 16. Discussion and Possible Action on Plan for 796 Ocean Boulevard West – Commissioner Dyer Would like to move forward in phases on the project with bathrooms, showers and handicapped facilities for this facility.  By agreement, they will discuss this during the budget workshop.

17. Discussion and Possible Action on Rooftop Lease Agreement between the Town and Dish Wireless – Public Works Director Clemmons  Motion to ask for $2000/month for one year for use of water tower mounting.  Unanimously approved.

18. Discussion and Possible Action on Process for Filling Vacant Commissioner Position – Commissioner Murdock Commissioner Murdock made a motion to fill the vacant seat.  There was no second, so no action taken.  Seat will apparently remain vacant until December after November elections. 

19. Discussion and Possible Action on Joining the North Carolina Cooperative Liquid Assets Securities System (North Carolina CLASS) – Finance Officer McRainey Approved unanimously.
a.     Resolution 23-08, Resolution to Participate in NC CLASS
b.     Joinder Agreement to Interlocal Agreement

20. Discussion on the Possibility of Having the HB Seal on All Town-Owned Vehicles Other Than Unmarked Police Cars – Mayor Pro Tem Smith Motion passed unanimously.

21. Public Comments on General Items

·      Ryan Pascal, Sailfish Dr.  Discussed the plan for the development of Sailfish Park.  He is concerned about traffic and other detriments.  Town plans to get responses at the Concerts, which is not representative.
·      Carol Moneypenny, Sailfish Dr. – Regarding Sailfish Park, she has lived in the area for a long time, neighbors want it to be left as it is.  Undesirable actions already occur at the park, there are no buffers between property owners and parking.  Drug and alcohol use is a problem.  There are no sidewalks on Sailfish.  Wants the area to be natural and preserved.
·      Rick McInturf  – item regarding #15 trailer bathrooms.  Consider leasing them and look for pre-attached ADA ramps.
·      Marty Arrowood thanked town staff for the Easter Egg Hunt.
·      Tom Myers, HBPOA President – Property owners on Sailfish are concerned about their properties.  Please give the opinions of Sailfish owners the weight they deserve.
·      Chad Hock – Works with internet surveys.  The Town’s survey is not accurate.  Send out a survey via the waterbill.  Have the rental agencies ask their actual renters to get a more accurate response. 
·      Rick Paarfus – would like to see the park stay natural.  A lot of the park is in the Corps easement and anything put there could be removed at any time.  The Park is currently meeting the community’s needs.  The Town has a lot of projects going on and this is not a must-do item. Also concerned about online surveys.  Regarding the canals, we are getting bigger boats.  His dock is permitted and he hopes it will not need to be changed.  On the inlet, it is unclear if Oak Island is helping pay for dredging or not.
·      Steve Moneypenny – leave the park as is.  It has been a wonderful park for many years.
·      Sandra Fidel – Safety is an issue.  Nighttime activity is already an issue.  Other things are on the Town’s plate.  The trailer bathrooms are a great idea.  Please leave Sailfish alone.
·      Brent Shaver – The park is good as it is, and enjoyed by old and young.  Sailfish park doesn’t need changes.
·      Debra Fish – Encouraged the Commissioners to understand what the beauty is on Sailfish.  People walk down the middle of street because there are no sidewalks.  Increased traffic will make it more dangerous.  Photographers take photos of the sunset.  Don’t want to see the traffic increase.  Need to look at the whole Parks and Rec study again because it was approved without much public attention due to Covid. 

22. Town Manager’s Report Budget workshop is Thursday, April 20 at 5:30pm.  Brunswick County is considering cutting off the sewer system if a storm surge is projected greater than 4’ – almost all our storms.  The new Bike path costs came in.  It will be an additional $100,000 for the Town’s portion.  Construction to start after Labor Day ‘23 and be finished by Memorial Day ’24.

23. Mayor’s Comments There are Hearing signs at Block Q that need to be removed. Budget Meeting is Thursday, he won’t be there.  Has had phone calls about Sailfish.  None in support.  The No Wake Zone around the bridge, it is already worse this year.  He asks the Town to follow up on placing buoys in the No Wake zone.  The Girl Scouts Bicycle Event was very positive.  Commissioner Smith and Chief Dixon went with him to the Hurricane conference. 

24. Board of Commissioners’ Comments
Commissioner Smith –  Drugs are becoming an issue everywhere.  He found drug paraphernalia at his neighbor’s home.   Would like the Sailfish Park to have a bathroom.  The Police have not had a problem reported there.  Signage is coming about hours.  Residents need to call 911 if people are there after hours.  He went to the Hurricane Conference.  Floating docks are an issue.  Days at the Docks is coming.

Commissioner Murdock – Has lived on Sailfish and knows the issues.  Keep Officer Conley in your prayers.  HBBC is going to host their Plant Sale at his business again (April 28 and 29).

Commissioner Dyer – Good to hear remarks.  Thanks to the staff on the inlet work and the Easter Egg Hunt.  She is looking forward to a safe summer.

Commissioner Arnold – He appreciates the natural areas.

Commissioner Smith – thanked the Merchants Association for the donated AEDs.

Mayor Holden – The Chapel is offering training on AEDs.  Contact Deneesa at the Chapel.

25. Closed Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3), Consult with the Attorney – Mayor Pro Tem Smith

26. Adjournment

HBPOA Easter Meeting

Saturday, April 8  10:00am

Town Hall

Come hear an update on what is happening in Holden Beach.

Mayor Alan Holden

Town Manager David Hewett

will give an update and answer questions about:

New property revaluations and the impact on our taxes

The Pier status

Block Q status

Inlet Hazard Area changes

Bike Lanes and Repaving status

796 OBW (the Sewer House) upgrades

Additional parking in the 800 Block

Sailfish Park Master Plan 

Town Budget

Other timely topics

Everyone welcome!

Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Follow Up

March 14, 2023

Click here for Meeting Packet

Click here to listen to the meeting

TOWN OF HOLDEN BEACH
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS’ REGULAR MEETING/PUBLIC HEARING
HOLDEN BEACH TOWN HALL – PUBLIC ASSEMBLY
TUESDAY, MARCH 14, 2023 – 5:00 P.M.

PUBLIC HEARING: Preliminary Assessment Roll for the Improvement of Seagull Drive Penny Nobles, 1100 OBW spoke.  She owns a lot along OBW and Seagull meaning she will pay for 100’ of frontage, which she deems excessive.   Katy Lippard, 118 Sea Gull was disappointed that the price had increased significantly from the estimate they had been given. 

REGULAR MEETING:

1.    Invocation

2.    Call to Order/ Welcome

3.    Pledge of Allegiance

4.    Agenda Approval Moved #8 to 19A.  Approved as amended.

5.    Approval of Minutes All approved unanimously.

a.     Minutes of the Special Meeting of February 16, 2023
b.     Minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 21, 2023

6.    Public Comments on Agenda Items No comments.

7.    American Flood Coalition – Tony McEwen, Carolinas Director (Mayor Holden) Gave a presentation on his organization.

a.     Resolution 23-02, A Resolution of the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Holden Beach Providing for the Town of Holden Beach to Become a Member of the American Flood Coalition Passed unanimously.

8.    Police Report – Chief Dixon Moved to 19A.
a.     Presentation of Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Certificate to Officer Alyse Wade

9.    Inspections Department Report – Inspections Director Evans Work is picking up again.

a.     Report on Coastal Resources Commission Meeting Discussed the CRC meeting.  The Inlet Hazard Areas (IHAs) will be discussed again at upcoming CRC meetings.  The changes being discussed now allow 2000sf total area instead of 1000sf footprint.  The CRC now requires two growing seasons before vegetation can be considered stable.  Beach mats were discussed; mats can go out to the vegetation line, to go further out other agencies must be consulted. 

10. Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 23-04, Resolution Confirming Assessment Roll and Levying Assessments on Seagull Drive Property Owners – Town Clerk Finnell  Referred to the comment posted online asking for six months to pay.  The actual assessment sent to residents increased significantly from the estimate.  The Commissioners are unable to change the law which does not allow people to pay over time.  Motion passed unanimously.  The Town paid half,  $111,314.
 
11. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposal from Bowman Murray Hemingway Architects for Next Phase of the Holden Beach Pier Project – Town Manager Hewett Representative did not appear and Commissioners and Town had just received the proposal and had not had time to review.  This item will be moved to the next meeting.  Click here to review the design proposal.

12. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposal from Pinnacle Architecture for Next Phase of the Block Q Project – Town Manager Hewett Approved unanimously.  Contract is for $55,000.

13. Discussion and Possible Approval of Contract Between the Town and Martin Starnes and Associates for Audit Services for Fiscal Year 2022 – 2023 – Finance Officer McRainey  Passed 4-1 with Commissioner Kwiatkowski voting NO. Cost for the audit will be $35,475.

14. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposal from McGill Associates for Sailfish Park Site-Specific Master Plan – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson Passed unanimously.  Contract for the plan is $34,680.

15. Discussion and Possible Action on Contract for Improvements at the Town-Owned Property Located at 796 Ocean Boulevard West – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson

a.     Ordinance 23-05, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 22-14, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2022 – 2023 (Amendment No. 12) The contract for $48,000 for cosmetic repairs was approved 4-1 with Commissioner Dyer voting NO.  The vendor will be able to start 45 days after contracting and the work will take six weeks.  It has not been decided whether to rent the home or not.

16. Discussion and Possible Action on North Carolina Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Pre-Application Block Q– Assistant Town Manager Ferguson Approved unanimously applying for pre-application for a $560,000 grant, our portion would be $140,000 for new restrooms and restroom parking.  There was a question on whether the whole parcel must be restricted for 25 years or if only the restroom portion can be obligated.

17. Discussion and Possible Action on Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule

a.     Resolution 23-05, Resolution Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule – Public Works Director Clemmons Motion carried unanimously. 

     b.     Resolution 23-06, Resolution Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule – Inspection Director Evans Motion carried unanimously with an amendment to increase sidewalk fee to $2000 and the cost of a temporary CO.

18. Discussion and Possible Action on Ordinance 23-06, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 22-14, The Revenue and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2022 – 2023 (Amendment No. 13, Parking Revenues) – Town Manager Hewett Motion carried unanimously.

19. Discussion and Possible Action on Ordinance 23-07, Ordinance Amending Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Chapter 93: Junked Vehicles and Equipment – Inspections Director Evans Motion carried unanimously.

19A.  Police report – (moved from #8 on the agenda)  Large increase in the number of parking violations due to shelling in 800 block.  Paid Parking will go into effect April 1.  Officer Wade was recognized for earning a Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Certificate.

20. Public Comments on General Items No comments.

21. Town Manager’s Report Budget season is underway.  Next workshop is April 20 at 5:30PM.  The Town has asked for funding from the state and the federal government, as well as asked for legislative assistance for banning shark tournaments and implementing the IHAs.  Remaining $600K in FEMA reimbursements should be received soon. The nighttime egg hunt is April 7, registration is required and ends this Friday.

22. Mayor’s Comments Next few weeks will be busy.  The first band will be Memorial Day Weekend.  Rentals are looking good this year.  He can’t understand why the west end is being penalized so severely with the IHAs.

23. Board of Commissioners’ Comments

Commissioner Smith – Congrats to Officer Elise for her training, looking forward to warmer weather, be mindful of the golf carts.  Sorry the pier had to be put off a month. 
Commissioner Murdock attended the Lockwood Folly Inlet meeting.  Hopes to have dredging before boating season.  Happy Easter.
Commissioner Dyer thanked the staff, also concerned about Lockwood Folly Inlet.  Voted against 796 OBW because she thinks we need to move forward with bathrooms and more permanent solutions. 
Commissioner Kwiatkowski announced her resignation from the Board effective immediately. Listen to her remarks starting at 1:56:28 on the meeting audio or Click here to read a transcript.

24. Closed Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3), Consult with the Attorney

25. Adjournment

Brunswick County has completed its reappraisal of property values.  In general, property values increased significantly, especially on the island.  However, this does not necessarily mean our tax bills will increase, that will depend on the tax rates set by the County and Town.  If they set “revenue neutral” tax rates, then our overall taxes will remain the same.  The Town Commissioners committed to not increasing taxes as a result of purchasing the Pier and Block Q.  The tax rates will be determined later this Spring after the Town and County budgets have been developed.

Click this link to look up your new property value:  Property Value

Click here for more information from the County on the process.

Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Follow Up – February 2023

TOWN OF HOLDEN BEACH

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS’ REGULAR MEETING

HOLDEN BEACH TOWN HALL – PUBLIC ASSEMBLY TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2023 – 5:00 P.M.

Click Here for Meeting Packet

Click Here to listen to meeting

1.    Invocation

2.    Call to Order/ Welcome

3.    Pledge of Allegiance

4.    Agenda Approval Approved as amended to remove item #11.

5.    Approval of Minutes Approved.

a.     Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 17, 2023

6.    Public Comments on Agenda Items Jim Bauer encouraged the BOC to reserve the right to tear down the pier.  He also encouraged them to sell 796 OBW.

7.    Police Report – Chief Dixon  Not much activity.  The recording equipment has been purchased and installed.  The Meeting Packet (Page 16) contains a summary report for 2022.   

8.    Inspections Department Report – Inspections Director Evans Construction continues on the island.  He has issued 326 total permits representing $2M in improved property values.  The Inlet Hazard Area rules are changing, some of which could benefit the island.

9.    Eagle Scout Recognition – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson Two Scouts have earned their Eagle Scout Award. 

10. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposal for Services from Green Engineering – Leo Green, Green Engineering (Public Works Director Chris Clemmons)  Contract for $172K to study water system (second water tower) approved unanimously.

a.     Ordinance 23-02, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 22-14, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2022 – 2023 (Amendment No. 10)  Approved unanimously.

11. American Flood Coalition – Tony McEwen, Carolinas Director (Mayor Holden) Removed from agenda.

a.     Resolution 23-02, A Resolution of the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Holden Beach Providing for the Town of Holden Beach to Become a Member of the American Flood Coalition

12. Fire Department Update – Tri-Beach Fire Department (Town Manager Hewett) Tri-Beach Fire Department would like a new/renovated station that would allow 24/7/365 staffing.  A new station could be placed between Fayetteville St. and 800 OBW based on a five-mile maximum service area.

13. Discussion and Possible Action on Final Site Plan for Block Q – Randy Baker, Pinnacle Architecture (Town Manager Hewett) Decided to break the project into two phases.  The first phase would be for boat parking and perimeter car parking.  The second phase would include new restrooms.  Approved unanimously, moving forward contingent on budget approval.

a.     Block Q Development Grant Application Would submit for a grant for Phase 2 (restrooms).  Phase 1 would be covered by the Town.  Approved unanimously.

14. Discussion and Possible Action on Final Site Plan for Pier Property – Chip Hemingway, Bowman, Murray Hemingway Architects (Town Manager Hewett) Voted unanimously to get a proposal for design and permitting, to be discussed at March 13 meeting.  Click here for the latest design.

15. Discussion and Possible Action on Paid Parking Program Items – Town Clerk Finnell  Both were approved unanimously.

a.     Resolution 23-03, Resolution Amending the Holden Beach Fee Schedule

b.     Contract between Town and Otto Connect

16. Discussion and Possible Action on Staff Collected Information for 796 Ocean Boulevard West – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson Agreed to get with the most responsive bidder to complete the work that needs to be done.  Issues with property “belonging” to HB Water System and expenses coming from BPART.   

17. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposals Received for Sailfish Park Site-Specific Master Plan – Assistant Town Manager Ferguson Voted unanimously to have McGill and Associates bring a contract.

18. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposals for Stormwater Management & Consulting Services – Public Works Director Clemmons  Selected McGill and Associates with Kwiatkowski voting NO.

19. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposals for Audit Services – Commissioner Kwiatkowski  The Audit Chair and the Audit Committee recommended the Town switch auditors to Sharpe and Patel.  However, the Commissioners voted 4-1 (Kwiatkowski voting NO) to stay with current auditor Martin Starnes for the next three years.

20. Discussion and Possible Action on Ordinance 23-03, Ordinance Amending Holden Beach Code of Ordinances, Section 130.01 Discharge of Firearms Prohibited; Exceptions – Chief Dixon Approved unanimously as amended to include air guns.

21. Discussion and Possible Approval of Ordinance 23-04, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 2214, The Revenues and Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2022 – 2023 (Amendment No. 11) Approved unanimously.

22. Public Comments on General Items No comments.

23. Town Manager’s Report The Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) will meet on Thursday at Ocean Isle. The Inlet Hazard Areas (IHA), Beach Mats, determining the vegetation line and other topics are on the agenda.  There was a lot of discussion at the County Commissioners Meeting about the IHAs.  Inspections Director Evans will give an update report at the March 14 meeting.  The Town Manager has issued a request for wetlands delineation of the area near the par course for possible future bulkheading.

24. Mayor’s Comments It is a late evening, thanks for listening or attending.

25. Board of Commissioners’ Comments Commissioner Smith thanked people for giving input and thanked the staff.  Commissioner Murdock thanked people for listening in and is ready for spring.  Commissioner Dyer thanked the staff and Commissioner Arnold dittoed previous comments.

26. Closed Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3), Consult with the Attorney

27. Adjournment

Board of Commissioners’ Meeting Follow Up – January 2023

Click Here for Meeting Packet

Click Here for Meeting Audio

TOWN OF HOLDEN BEACH

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING

HOLDEN BEACH TOWN HALL – PUBLIC ASSEMBLY

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2023 – 5:00 P.M.

1.    Invocation

2.   Call to Order/ Welcome Commissioner Arnold was not in attendance.

3.   Pledge of Allegiance

4.   Agenda Approval Approved unanimously.

5.    Approval of Minutes

a.     Minutes of the Regular Meeting of December 20, 2022 Approved unanimously.

6.    Public Comments on Agenda Items

• Jim Bauer spoke on the Town-owned sewer house at 796 OBW and encouraged the board to sell it.
• Phil Caldwell spoke in favor of paid parking but suggested designating some free spots and making trailer parking free.  He also felt property owners should not be charged to park.
• More public comments are available on the Town’s website here.

7.    Update on Bulkheads – Shane Lippard, Right Angle Engineering (Commissioner Murdock) Click here for Parking Lot #1 drawing, Click here for Parking Lot #2 drawing Mr. Lippard will bring back which kind of CAMA permit is needed and how long it is good for, to be discussed next month.  Cost of bulkheads alone would be around $300,000.  Concerns expressed that citizens don’t want it, want the area left green.  It is unclear how many spots would be provided.  Concerns about the land eroding which was disputed. Stated that the parking might be needed if a Corps project was ever approved.

8.    Discussion and Possible Action on Delineation of Parcourse Area – Commissioner Murdock Voted unanimously to have the Par Course area wetlands delineated.  Bulkheads needed to protect from erosion.

9.    Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution 23-01, Resolution Declaring Cost and Ordering Preparation of Preliminary Assessment Roll and Setting Time and Place for Public Hearing on Preliminary Assessment Roll for the Improvement of Seagull Drive – Town Clerk Finnell Public Hearing set for March 14 at 5:00PM as the next step in assessments for the paving.

10. Discussion and Possible Action on 796 Ocean Boulevard West Preliminary Plans – David Wood, David Wood Inc. Home Designs (Assistant Town Manager Ferguson) Click here for plans. Agreed there are no funds to develop into a community center at this time.  Voted to have architect add external wash-off showers to plans.  Plans to rent home as a vacation rental until converting it to a community center/event rental facility complicated by new A/C units being needed now and commercial units and new ductwork needed for a community center.  Parking is also an issue.

11. Request from the Tri-Beach Fire Department to Upgrade Station #2 on Holden Beach – Fire Chief Doug Todd (Town Manager Hewett) Tri-Beach has seen an increase in calls and would like to staff the station 24-7-365.  The station does not have a kitchen or sleeping area.  Unclear if station can be relocated.  Suggested a small group of Staff and Commissioners meet with Fire Department.  No action taken.

12. Police Report – Lieutenant Dilworth  Typical calls for this time of year.  Had a large number of calls due to freeze and broken pipes.

13. Inspections Department Report – Inspections Director Evans New homes have picked up again – 40 under construction.  The department remains busy.

14. Discussion and Possible Action on Response to Parking Program Tasker – Town Manager Hewett  Went through list item by item.
·      Boat trailers without tags would be handled per proposal.
·      24-Hour Right of Way parking – not an issue.
·      Festival Parking – free, already addressed.
·      Free Pass for Owners – will evaluate next year.  No change.
·      Revenue Breakdown – provided in meeting packet.
·      Fee increase – voted to raise rates to $4/hour, $20/day, $80/week, $150/year.  $300 for boat trailer and vehicle.  Some would like to reduce boat and trailer parking costs in the future.
·      Paid Parking Dates – will remain the same April thru October.
·      Signage – will allow Otto to place as needed after consultation with Staff.
·      Unauthorized Right-of-Way Parking – currently complaint based. Will remain the same
·      Street by Street Review – will ask vendor to work with Police to make sure all signage is ready for season.  “No parking here to corner” signs would be removed because they are confusing.

15. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposed Budget/Quarterly Meeting Schedule – Town Manager Hewett Approved unanimously.

16. Discussion and Possible Action on Setting Board of Commissioners’ Objectives for Fiscal Year 2023 -2024 – Commissioner Kwiatkowski Commissioners will use last years approved objectives and add new ones in preparation for budget meetings.

17. Discussion and Possible Action on Proposals Received in Response to the Town’s Request for Qualifications for Water System Asset Inventory and Assessment – Public Works Director Clemmons Green Engineering was selected and will be asked to bring back a proposal.

18. Discussion and Possible Action on Items Necessary to Implement Recommended Changes to Personnel Pay Plan – Town Manager Hewett  Approved unanimously.  Town Manager will no longer be Finance Officer.  Salary adjustments result in most employees getting a raise.
a.     Authorization of New Position – Finance Officer
b.     Classification and Pay Plan
c.     Salary Adjustments
d.     Ordinance 23-01, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance 22-14, The Revenues and
Appropriations Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2022 – 2023 (Amendment No. 9)
e.     Town Manager Contract Amendment

19. Discussion and Possible Action on Establishing a Regular Schedule for a Facility Condition Inspection of Town-Owned Properties and Facilities which are Primarily Used by the Public – Commissioner Kwiatkowski Agreed by consensus to have Town Manager prepare a list of facilities and equipment used by the public for the April meeting.

20. Discussion and Appointment of Commissioner to Serve on the Audit Committee – Town Clerk Finnell Commissioner Kwiatkowski will serve again this year.

21. Public Comments on General Items None.

22. Town Manager’s Report
·      Gave a quarterly budget report – everything in good shape, assessment is “normal”.  Click here for slides.
·      Federal budget passed. Earmarks of $3.8M for HB, including $1M for Corps’ portion of study.
·      Still awaiting final inspection from FEMA, sent in the further required paperwork.
·      Bike Path – bid being prepared.  Work would be completed September ’23 to Memorial Day ’24.  Second appraisal for Pier for PARTF grant is coming.  Final plan review at February meeting.
·      Block Q awaiting site plan revisions at February meeting.
·      Doing canal dredging survey – will be in budget for upcoming year.  We don’t have a place to put the spoils.

23. Mayor’s Comments Commented that there was a lot of activity under the bridge and reminded property owners to be mindful of winterizing docks and showers because it creates a lot of work for the Town.

24. Board of Commissioners’ Comments
·      Commissioner Smith – looking forward to Pier and Block Q preliminary plans next month, wants to solicit grants.
·      Commissioner Murdock – appreciates staff and is excited about things coming.
·      Commissioner Dyer – Glad to see the staff raises in place, happy New Year.
·      Commissioner Kwiatkowski – encouraged the public to attend or listen to the budget meetings.  Lots of items in the planning stages.

25. Closed Session Pursuant to North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(a)(3), Consult with the Attorney

26. Adjournment