Southport public meetings in 2025

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will decide whether to approve a 10-year lease renewal for the NC Maritime Museum at 204 E. Moore St. The proposed lease, at $1 per year, continues the museum’s operation in its current location. The board will also swear in new mayor and aldermen and recognize departing officials.

• Approve 10-year lease renewal for NC Maritime Museum at 204 E. Moore St. for $1/year
• Swear in Mayor Dr. Joe Pat Hatem and Aldermen Karen Mosteller, Robert Carroll, and Paul Gross
• Recognize departing Mayor Rich Alt and Alderman Frank Lai
• Approve 2026 regular meeting schedule
• Approve minutes of November 3 and 13, 2025 meetings

The Board of Aldermen held its regular meeting, which included the swearing-in of newly elected Mayor Dr. Joseph P. Hatem and Aldermen Robert Carroll, Paul Gross, and Karen Mosteller. The Board approved the consent agenda, including a 10-year renewal of the Maritime Museum lease, and unanimously approved the 2026 regular meeting schedule, reducing it to one meeting per month. Alderman Karen Mosteller was appointed Mayor Pro Tem by a 5-1 vote.

• Approved consent agenda including 10-year Maritime Museum lease renewal (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 regular meeting schedule, one meeting per month on second Thursday (unanimous)
• Appointed Alderman Karen Mosteller as Mayor Pro Tem (5-1)
• Swore in Mayor Dr. Joseph P. Hatem and Aldermen Carroll, Gross, and Mosteller

Board of Adjustment

The Southport Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting on December 4, 2025, at 4:30 PM. The main item of new business is a special use permit (SUP-25-05) for a property at 729 N. Atlantic. The board will also approve minutes from two prior meetings. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as the ethics statement and quasi-judicial process explanation.

• Special Use Permit SUP-25-05 for 729 N. Atlantic
• Approval of September 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of September 23, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board of Adjustment voted unanimously to table the Special Use Permit SUP-25-05 for a detached accessory dwelling unit at 729 N. Atlantic Ave. until the next meeting on January 27, 2026, to allow all parties to prepare with expert testimony. The decision followed concerns about stormwater runoff, parking, and the need for professional evidence. The Board also approved the September 23, 2025 meeting minutes and discussed an update on the SUP 416 Bay St. case.

• Tabled Special Use Permit SUP-25-05 for 729 N. Atlantic Ave. (unanimous)
• Approved September 23, 2025 Board of Adjustment minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred approval of September 8, 2025 minutes pending edits by Mr. Masker
• Directed staff to provide legible documents and Board roster in future packets

Historic Preservation Commission

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission will convene its regular monthly meeting at the Indian Trail Meeting Hall. The agenda consists entirely of procedural items, including approval of past meeting minutes and a public comment period. No substantive decisions or votes are scheduled.

The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved the Annual Report and the 2026 Regular Meeting Schedule. It also adopted two sets of recommended changes to the Draft Board of Aldermen Inquiries on Proposed Local Historic District Standards, covering pages 12-67 and pages 67-86, with specific language amendments. The commission discussed but did not decide on the inclusion of the Yacht Basin in the historic district, deferring further discussion until after the Board of Aldermen reviews the proposed standards.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 28, September 3, and August 22, 2025 meetings (unanimous)
• Approved Annual Report (unanimous)
• Adopted 2026 Regular Meeting Schedule (unanimous)
• Approved recommendations on pages 12-67 of Draft Local Historic District Standards (unanimous)
• Approved Board of Aldermen comments on pages 67-86 of Draft Standards (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special workshop meeting to hear presentations from six speakers on the Wilmington Harbor 403 project and related coastal issues. The agenda lists speakers including the city engineer, Audubon volunteers and staff, a NC Coastal Federation representative, an attorney, and a private property owner. No formal decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Wilmington Harbor 403 Project presentations
• Dr. Kurt Scheetz private property owners shoreline protection project
• Presentation by Bill Cary, attorney specializing in climate resilience planning

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board will hold its regular monthly meeting, primarily to consider a text amendment (ZTA-25-05) to the Unified Development Ordinance regarding vape and tobacco shops. The board will also discuss its rules of procedure and a planning board primer, and will approve minutes from the June 19, 2025 meeting.

• UDO Text Amendment ZTA-25-05 regarding Vape/Tobacco Shops
• Approval of June 19, 2025 Planning Board Regular Meeting Minutes
• Discussion of Planning Board Rules of Procedure
• Discussion of Planning Board Primer

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will consider several items, including a resolution to amend the public comment policy to prohibit scent-emitting and noise-making devices, and a motion to cancel the December 1st regular meeting due to the swearing-in of new members. The board will also discuss concerns about a developer's tree burning, a conflict of interest policy, and city alleyways. Committee and staff reports will be presented, including police, code enforcement, community relations, parks and recreation, and fire department updates.

• Resolution #25-1113.01 amending public comment policy to prohibit scent-emitting or noise-making devices
• Motion to cancel the December 1st regular Aldermen meeting
• Discussion on concerns related to developer's tree burning
• Discussion on conflict of interest policy
• Discussion on city alleyways

The Board of Aldermen voted 4-1 to approve an amended agenda that removed three policy items (Public Comment Policy Amendment, Conflict of Interest Policy, and City Alleyways) from the final regular meeting of the current Board, and added a closed session for legal consultation. The original agenda motion failed 2-3. The Board also unanimously approved canceling the December 1st regular meeting.

• Approved amended agenda removing 3 policy items and adding closed session (4-1)
• Rejected original agenda motion with closed session but without removals (2-3)
• Approved cancellation of December 1st regular meeting (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting, including discussion of inquiries from the Board of Aldermen regarding proposed local historic district standards. The commission will also handle its annual report and set the 2026 meeting schedule. Public comment is invited.

• Discussion of Board of Aldermen inquiries on proposed local historic district standards
• Annual report presentation
• Adoption of 2026 regular meeting schedule

The Historic Preservation Commission discussed suggested edits to the Proposed Local Historic District Standards, including softening language on enforcement, walkways, driveways, and vistas, but made no final changes. The Commission emphasized that the Board of Aldermen has final authority over the document, which is currently with the State. The Annual Report was moved to the December meeting.

• Approved agenda unanimously
• Approved moving Annual Report to December meeting unanimously
• Discussed but did not adopt changes to Historic District Standards language
• Deferred further Standards review to next regular meeting

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will consider several contracts for repairs and construction, a resolution to apply for a flood reduction grant, and a resolution regarding a fire department inspection. They will also discuss proposed text amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance and a public comment policy. The meeting includes a closed session for attorney consultation and personnel matters.

• Sidewalk Repair Contract
• Indian Trail Meeting Hall Structural Repairs Contract
• Community Building Deck Replacement Contract
• Bonnetts Creek Flood Reduction HMGP Grant Application Designation of Authorized Agent Resolution
• Discussion of Proposed Unified Development Ordinance Text Amendments

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board is holding a special meeting to review the proposed Rules of Procedure under old business. The agenda contains no other substantive items, only standard procedural elements like call to order, invocation, and pledge of allegiance.

• Review of the Proposed Rules of Procedure

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting to discuss city alleyways. The board will review historical land ownership data, plot diagrams, building permits, county deed and tax records, a city proclamation, and legal references. This appears to be an informational session to examine claims and records related to alleyways.

• Review of historical data over 135 years of land ownership (pages 2-50)
• Plot diagrams (pages 51-55)
• Building permits (pages 56-60)
• Brunswick County records on deeds, ownership claims, and tax records (pages 61-88)
• Southport proclamation on alleyways (pages 89-90)

The Southport Board of Aldermen held a special meeting to address public concerns about alleyway documentation. The board unanimously approved a motion to hire outside legal counsel to search for all declarations of withdrawal filed since 1930 related to city alleyways. They also unanimously approved delegating authority to the City Manager and City Attorney to send letters regarding withdrawals of dedication on all public property and to report actions back to the board. Additionally, the board directed the City Manager to contact the Register of Deeds to discuss notification procedures for future filings.

• Approved motion to engage outside counsel to search for all declarations of withdrawal filed since 1930 (unanimous)
• Approved delegation of authority to City Manager and City Attorney to send letters regarding withdrawals of dedication on all public property (unanimous)
• Approved motion to direct City Manager to contact Register of Deeds about notification procedures (unanimous)
• Approved release of additional documents, including attorney-client privilege memorandum and JC correspondence, into public record (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board is holding a regular meeting with routine procedural items and staff reports. The main topics are a monthly review, next steps for the Comprehensive Plan, the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), handbook progress, and a project dashboard. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• Comprehensive Plan - New Steps
• Unified Development Ordinance (UDO)
• Handbook Progress
• Project Dashboard
• Monthly Review

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen and Historic Preservation Commission are holding a joint workshop to discuss the draft Southport Local Historic District Design Standards 2025. The standards would guide exterior changes, new construction, and demolition within the local historic district. No formal votes are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only.

• Draft Southport Local Historic District Design Standards 2025 (dated September 12, 2025)
• Standards cover site features, exterior changes, new construction, relocation, demolition, and disaster preparedness
• Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) required for changes in the historic district
• Historic district originally designated in 1980, with a boundary amendment in 2010
• Standards based on Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation

Board of Aldermen

The Board of Aldermen will hold three public hearings on the Southport 2050 Comprehensive CAMA Plan, a text amendment for special events at bed and breakfasts, and zoning text amendments to UDO Articles 3 and 8. The board will also discuss the future of the Old City Hall/Courthouse, updates to the streetlight policy, and a public comment policy. A resolution supporting expanded mental health services for veterans and individuals in crisis is on the consent agenda.

• Public hearing on Southport 2050 Comprehensive CAMA Plan
• Public hearing on special events at bed and breakfasts text amendment
• Public hearing on UDO Article 3 & 8 zoning text amendments
• Discussion of Old City Hall/Courthouse
• Resolution supporting mental health services and Extreme Risk Protection Orders

The Board unanimously approved the HDR architectural contract (approximately $860,000) for the Old City Hall/Courthouse project, covering design through construction documents. The Board also adopted the Southport 2050 Comprehensive Plan, eliminated nine land uses from the UDO due to the loss of the ETJ, and reassigned adult establishments and tattoo/body-piercing establishments to the Highway Commercial District. The bed-and-breakfast special events text amendment was returned to the Planning Board for further review, and the street light policy was updated.

• Approved HDR contract for Old City Hall/Courthouse design (unanimous)
• Adopted Southport 2050 Comprehensive Plan/CAMA Land Use Plan (unanimous)
• Eliminated nine orphan land uses from UDO (unanimous)
• Reassigned adult establishments and tattoo/body-piercing to Highway Commercial (unanimous)
• Restricted drive-through uses to Highway Commercial and PUD districts (unanimous)
• Returned bed-and-breakfast special events amendment to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Approved Street Light Policy amendments (unanimous)
• Continued Public Comment Policy discussion to November 3 meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board will hold a special meeting to review proposed rules of procedure. This is a procedural discussion with no substantive decisions scheduled.

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will consider awarding an $866,111 architectural services contract to HDR for converting Old City Hall into a police station and board chambers. The board will also hold a public hearing on the Osprey Landing Phase 4 annexation. A closed session is scheduled to consult with the attorney.

• Award contract to HDR for architectural services for Old City Hall Police and Board Chambers Conversion, cost $866,111
• Public hearing on Osprey Landing Phase 4 Annexation
• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(3) to consult with attorney
• Budget amendment for architectural services
• Staff exploring alternative financing due to delayed state budget funding

Board of Adjustment

The Southport Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting to consider a modification to a special use permit (SUP-25-02) for the property at 204 N Rhett St. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as approval of the agenda and an explanation of the quasi-judicial process. No other substantive items are listed.

• SUP-25-02 — Modification to Special Use Permit at 204 N Rhett St

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will consider setting public hearings for October 9 on the Southport 2050 Comprehensive Plan and a zoning text amendment for special events. The board will also discuss stormwater regulations, a capital improvement plan, and next steps for the historic district. Several items are on the consent agenda, including annexation of Osprey Landing Phase Four and a proclamation for Peace Day.

• Set public hearing for Southport 2050 Comprehensive Plan
• Set public hearing for Zoning Text Amendment – Special Events ZTA-24-05
• Osprey Landing Phase Four Annexation Petition
• Article 6: Stormwater Regulation Ordinance
• Capital Improvement Plan

The Board unanimously adopted a policy allowing property owners to petition the city to maintain and use adjacent alleyways, with alleys remaining city property and subject to right-of-way standards. It also unanimously approved a correction to the Stormwater Regulation Ordinance, adopted the FY2026-2031 Capital Improvement Program, and created a formal Business Advisory Board. No action was taken on the anticipated Planning Board vacancy, as no vacancy exists.

• Adopted alleyway use policy allowing property owners to petition for maintenance/use, alleys remain city property (unanimous)
• Adopted Article 6 Stormwater Regulation Ordinance amendment with corrections (unanimous)
• Adopted FY2026-2031 Capital Improvement Program (unanimous)
• Adopted Business Advisory Board ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and consent agenda (unanimous)
• Set public hearings for Oct 9 on Comprehensive Plan and ZTA-24-05 (consent agenda)
• Sent welcome sign content decision to staff, rescinding Aug 4 vote (unanimous)
• No action on Planning Board vacancy—no vacancy exists

Board of Adjustment

The Southport Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting to handle routine business and one special use permit application. The board will approve the agenda and minutes from prior meetings, then consider a special use permit for a property at 107A E 8th St. No other substantive decisions are listed.

• Special Use Permit SUP-25-04 for 107A E 8th St
• Approval of minutes from April 22 and July 22, 2025 meetings

The Board of Adjustment unanimously approved Special Use Permit SUP-25-04, allowing Nicholas Chisom to operate a tattoo and body-piercing studio at 107A East 8th Street. The permit is valid only during Chisom's tenancy and for the specified business purpose. The board also approved the agenda, minutes, and appointment of Steve Dosher as alternate.

• Approved Special Use Permit SUP-25-04 for tattoo/piercing studio at 107A E 8th St (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 22 and July 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Steve Dosher as Board Alternate (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board is holding a special meeting with a single substantive item: establishing its Rules of Procedure. This is the only new business on the agenda; the rest is routine administrative items. No other decisions or discussions are listed.

• Establishment of the Planning Board Rules of Procedure

Historic Preservation Commission

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including swearing in a new member, approving minutes, and reviewing updated Local Historic District Design Standards. The design standards review is the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Swearing-in of new member Alexis Gore-Graves
• Approval of August 6, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of Updated Local Historic District Design Standards

The Historic Preservation Commission reviewed and agreed on items for its recommendation to the Board of Aldermen regarding updated Local Historic District Design Standards. The discussion emphasized keeping enforcement benign rather than stringent, with demolition delays up to 365 days. No formal vote was recorded on the standards themselves; the commission agreed on items to include in the recommendation. Public comment was extensive, with residents expressing concerns about costs, property rights, and the scope of the standards.

• Agreed on items for inclusion in recommendation to Board of Aldermen on updated design standards
• Discussed keeping enforcement benign, not stringent, with demolition delay up to 365 days
• Confirmed zoning powers excluded from enforcement language
• Approved agenda as written (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding a special meeting to review updated design standards for the local historic district. The agenda includes public comment and old business, with the primary item being the review of these standards.

• Review of Updated Local Historic District Design Standards

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board is meeting to consider several land-use items, including zoning text amendments for special events and UDO updates, a comprehensive plan review, and a site plan for a Home2 Suites hotel. The board will also discuss procedural matters such as rules of procedure and goal setting.

• ZTA-24-05 Special Events amendment
• ZTA-25-04 UDO Updates (Article 3 & Article 8)
• Comprehensive Plan Review and Recommendation
• MSP-25-01 Home2 Suites site plan
• Planning Board Project / Application Handbook discussion

The Southport Planning Board unanimously approved the major site plan for the Home2 Suites hotel (MSP-25-01) at J Swain Blvd and Eason Street. The board also recommended approval of two zoning text amendments (ZTA-24-05 for special events at bed and breakfasts, and ZTA-25-04 for UDO updates) and the Comprehensive Plan, all with conditions or noted abstentions. The meeting included public comment and discussion on traffic, safety, and procedural issues.

• Approved MSP-25-01 Home2 Suites major site plan (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ZTA-24-05 Special Events at Bed and Breakfast (5-2, Bove and Horton nay)
• Recommended approval of ZTA-25-04 UDO Updates with conditions (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Comprehensive Plan with action plan (unanimous, Luehe abstained on first motion)
• Approved motion to ask counsel about performance bonds for stormwater (unanimous)
• Approved July 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda adjustment to follow New Business (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will meet on August 14, 2025, to discuss and vote on several key items, including a budget amendment, a final plat for a residential development, and zoning text amendments. The meeting will also include public hearings on event ordinances and stormwater regulations.

• FY26 Budget Amendment #1
• Final Plat – Waters at Southport (Lots 1-40)
• Public Hearing – Stormwater Regulation Ordinance
• Zoning Text Amendment – Special Events ZTA-24-05
• Public Hearing – Event Ordinance and Process Improvement

Historic Preservation Commission

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission will convene its regular monthly meeting at Indian Trail Meeting Hall. The agenda consists entirely of procedural items and no substantive decisions or discussions are scheduled.

Board of Aldermen

The Board of Aldermen will decide whether to adopt a new ordinance creating a formal permitting process for special events in downtown Southport, including street closures, amplified sound, and large gatherings. They will also vote on replacing four city welcome signs at a cost of $10,000, with funding already allocated in the FY26 budget.

• Approve ordinance regulating special events with $100 application fee and $1M insurance requirement
• Approve $10,000 resolution for replacement of four 'Welcome to Southport' signs on NC 211 and Ferry Road
• Consider reinstatement of Animal Protective Services as a separate department
• Hear special recognition for John Moseley on the 250th anniversary of the Burning of Fort Johnston

The Board of Aldermen voted 4-3 to reinstate the Animal Protective Services (APS) department as a standalone department reporting directly to the city manager, with the APS officer as department head. The motion, initially tied 3-3, was decided by Mayor Alt's vote in favor. A subsequent motion by Alderman Mosteller to reconsider failed 4-2. The board also scheduled a public hearing on a proposed event ordinance for August 14 and approved replacing two deteriorated welcome signs.

• Reinstated Animal Protective Services as standalone department (4-3, mayor broke tie)
• Failed motion to reconsider APS reinstatement (4-2)
• Scheduled public hearing on event ordinance for August 14 (unanimous)
• Approved replacing two most deteriorated welcome signs, excluding 'Salubrious Breezes' (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission holds a special meeting to review public hearing comments from the July 10, 2025 Board of Aldermen meeting. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Review of Public Hearing Comments from 7/10/2025 Board of Aldermen Meeting

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to remove most landscaping-related items from the 'Site and Setting' section of the draft design guidelines, keeping only docks, piers, bulkheads, and window AC units as minor Certificate of Appropriateness items. The commission also discussed but did not decide on shortening the 180-day COA approval timeline, exempting current property owners from new rules, and adding the yacht basin to the historic district. No final decisions were made on those topics.

• Approved agenda unanimously
• Approved motion to remove all Site and Setting minor COA items except docks, piers, bulkheads, and window AC units (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Board of Adjustment

The Southport Board of Adjustment will hold its regular meeting to swear in new members and hear one quasi-judicial appeal. The board will also receive an ethics reminder and procedural explanations before adjourning.

• Appeal of Code Enforcement Determination AP-25-02

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting to review proposals from three architecture firms for the Old City Hall/Courthouse project. The agenda includes a building tour and presentations from HDR, Moseley, and Creech. No decisions are scheduled; this is a review and discussion item.

• Review of RFQ responses for Old City Hall/Courthouse architecture services
• Presentations by HDR, Moseley, and Creech
• Building tour of the Old City Hall/Courthouse

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board will convene a regular meeting with only procedural items, including swearing in new members, selecting leadership, and approving past minutes. No zoning, rezoning, or development decisions are listed on the agenda.

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is meeting on July 17, 2025, at 113 W Moore Street. The agenda includes a call to order, pledge of allegiance, and a motion to enter closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(6) to consider qualifications, competence, performance, character, fitness, or conditions of appointment/employment of an individual public officer or employee or prospective appointee. No other business is listed; the meeting is expected to adjourn after the closed session.

• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(6) regarding public officer/employee qualifications
• Meeting open to public and live-streamed on city website, Facebook, and YouTube

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold a public hearing on a proposed local historic district overlay. The meeting also includes routine approvals of past meeting minutes and an EMS franchise agreement, along with committee and staff reports.

• Public Hearing – Local Historic District Overlay
• Approval of Minutes of March 13, 19, & April 7, 2025 Aldermen Meetings
• Approval of EMS Franchise Agreement

Historic Preservation Commission

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes swearing in new members, electing a chair and vice chair, and discussing the status of commission documents and next steps for processes and procedures. No specific projects or decisions are listed.

• Swearing in of members Charles A. Drew, Alexis Gore Graves, Bonita Bray, and alternate Katherine Hufham
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Status of Historic Preservation Commission Documents
• Next Steps - Processes and Procedures

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission held a regular meeting with no substantive decisions beyond re-electing Charles Drew as Chair and Bonnie Bray as Vice Chair, both unanimously. The agenda was approved, and members were sworn in. Discussion focused on the upcoming Historic District overlay public hearing, including public concerns about property rules, the Yacht Basin, and design standards, but no formal action was taken on the overlay.

• Re-elected Charles Drew as Chair (unanimous)
• Re-elected Bonnie Bray as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Swore in members Charles Drew, Alexis Gore Graves, Bonnie Bray, and Katherine Hufham (alternate)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold a regular meeting with public comment, agenda approval, and special recognition for National Parks and Recreation Month. Key agenda items include a presentation on a Southport specialty license plate, an update on the Lowe White Bridge Project, and selection of an architecture firm for the Old City Hall/Courthouse. The board will also make appointments to several committees and boards, and may enter closed session to consider personnel matters.

• Southport Specialty License Plate discussion
• Lowe White Bridge Project update
• Old City Hall/Courthouse Architecture Firm Selection
• Appointments to Airport Commission, Beautification Committee, Board of Adjustment, Cemetery Committee, Forestry Committee, Historic Preservation Commission, Parks and Recreation Committee, Planning Board
• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11 for personnel considerations

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting to consider the FY26 budget, FY25 budget amendments, and several planning items including a zoning text amendment, a development agreement, and a conditional zoning map amendment for the Waterway Community. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed.

• FY25 Budget Amendments
• FY26 Budget presented by City Manager Noah Saldo
• UDO Zoning Text Amendment – Section 2.11 Conditional Rezoning
• Development Agreement – Waterway Community
• Conditional Zoning Map Amendment – CZ-25-01 Waterway Community

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board will consider a zoning text amendment to stormwater regulations and a zoning map amendment to create a local historic district overlay. Public comment will be taken, and minutes from the April meeting will be approved.

• Zoning Text Amendment ZTA-25-02: Stormwater Regulations Ordinance (Article 6)
• Zoning Map Amendment ZMA-25-02: Local Historic District Overlay
• Approval of April 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Planning Services Director updates
• Planning and Zoning update

The Planning Board unanimously approved forwarding the Zoning Text Amendment ZTA-25-02 (stormwater regulations) and the Zoning Map Amendment ZMA-25-02 (Local Historic District Overlay) to the Board of Aldermen for review and adoption. Both items were recommended as consistent with the city's CAMA Core Land Use Plan. The board also approved the April 15 meeting minutes and the agenda, and discussed updates on the Multi-Modal Project, HB 765, and a mural/sign ordinance review.

• Approved forwarding ZTA-25-02 stormwater regulations ordinance to Board of Aldermen (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding ZMA-25-02 Local Historic District Overlay to Board of Aldermen (unanimous)
• Approved April 15 Planning Board minutes (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Closed public comment with no speakers (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold multiple public hearings on June 12, 2025, including discussions on the FY26 budget, energy rates, zoning amendments for the Waterway Community, and major subdivision plats for Deep Point Marina. The meeting also includes approval of the consent agenda and committee reports.

• FY25 budget amendments
• FY26 energy rates public hearing
• FY26 budget public hearing
• Zoning text amendment for Waterway Community
• Development agreement for Waterway Community

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda consists of standard procedural items: approving minutes from previous meetings, receiving public comment, and hearing a status update on commission documents. A presentation will be made to member Rick Pukenas. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

• Approval of April 2, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of April 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• Status update on Historic Preservation Commission documents
• Presentation to member Rick Pukenas

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold a regular meeting on June 2, 2025, at 9:00 AM. The agenda includes approval of a contract for the construction of a weather tower, a presentation by Otto Connect Inc. on parking management, and updates to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) for consistency with state statutes. The board will also receive a presentation on the Southport Emergency Operations Plan.

• Approval of a contract for construction of the Weather Tower (Pgs. 3-9)
• Presentation by Otto Connect Inc. Parking Management (Pgs. 11-46)
• Amendments to Update the UDO for Consistency with NC General Statutes (Pgs. 47-55)
• Southport Emergency Operation Plan presentation (Pgs. 56-169)
• Resolution Requiring the Live Streaming and Recording of the Board of Adjustment Meetings (Pg. 10)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is meeting to receive a presentation of the proposed FY26 budget from City Manager Noah Saldo. This is the only substantive item on the agenda; the rest is procedural (call to order, pledge, adjournment).

• Presentation of FY26 Proposed Budget by City Manager Noah Saldo

The Board of Aldermen held a special budget meeting to review the proposed FY 2026 budget, which includes no property tax increase and no use of General Fund fund balance. The budget maintains the current 31-cent tax rate, includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for employees, and reduces three full-time positions through attrition. No formal vote was taken; the public hearing is scheduled for June 12, 2025, with adoption possible that evening or at the June 23 meeting.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• FY26 budget presented, no tax increase, no fund balance use
• 3% COLA for employees, up to 2% merit increases
• Three full-time positions reduced through attrition, no layoffs
• Transition to OpenGov financial system proposed
• Fee changes: community building rental, filming permits, road closures, summer programs
• Golf cart registration moves to calendar-year cycle
• Public hearing set for June 12, 2025; adoption possible June 12 or June 23

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board will meet to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss zoning text amendments, a rezoning application, and preliminary plat applications for a major subdivision at Deep Point Marina. The board will also receive updates from staff and a liaison.

• ZTA-25-03: Zoning Text Amendment – Conditional Zoning Standards
• CZ-25-01: Waterway Community – Conditional Rezoning Application
• SUB-25-01: Deep Point Marina – Preliminary Plat Application for Major Subdivision
• SUB-25-02: Deep Point Marina – Preliminary Plat Application for Major Subdivision

The Planning Board unanimously approved ZTA-25-03, a zoning text amendment revising conditional rezoning standards, and forwarded it to the Board of Aldermen. They also approved a conditional rezoning map amendment for a 47.61-acre mixed-use development (up to 199 units) with a height reduction to current UDO standards, and recommended approval of two preliminary plats for subdivisions at 1301 Ferry Road. All items were forwarded to the Board of Aldermen for final decisions.

• Approved ZTA-25-03 zoning text amendment for conditional rezoning standards (unanimous)
• Approved conditional rezoning map amendment for 47.61 acres (CZ-01) with height reduced to UDO standards (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary plat SUB-25-01 for Deep Point Marina subdivision (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary plat SUB-25-02 for Bald Head Limited subdivision (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting to discuss two budget requests for fiscal year 2026: one from the Planning Services department and one from Permitting and Inspections. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; the items are presented for discussion.

• FY26 Planning Services Budget Request presented by Director Maureen Meehan
• FY26 Permitting and Inspections Budget Request presented by Chief Building Inspector Kiley Barefoot

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold two public hearings on amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The first amendment aligns multiple sections with NC General Statutes Chapter 160D, and the second revises permitted uses, accessory use standards, and definitions. The board will also consider consent agenda items including meeting minutes, a disaster debris contract, and a resolution for property acquisition documents.

• Public hearing: UDO amendment for consistency with NC General Statutes Chapter 160D
• Public hearing: UDO amendment to Section 3.1, 3.6.A.5, 3.6.Q, and Article 8
• Disaster Debris Contract (consent agenda)
• Resolution authorizing mayor to sign Sunny Point property acquisition documents
• Approval of minutes from January 9, February 6, and February 17, 2025 meetings

The Board of Aldermen held public hearings and approved two Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) amendments. The first aligns local regulations with NC General Statutes Chapter 160D, as required by state law. The second introduces a new 'Specialized Events' land use and Temporary Use Permit, allowing B&Bs and other commercial establishments to host events like weddings, with restrictions and exemptions for family gatherings and community festivals. Both items were approved unanimously.

• Approved UDO amendment for consistency with NC General Statutes Chapter 160D (unanimous)
• Approved UDO amendment creating 'Specialized Events' land use and Temporary Use Permit (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including minutes, Disaster Debris Contract, and Sunny Point property resolution (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #25-0508.01 authorizing Mayor to execute Sunny Point property closing documents (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting to consider the FY26 Parks and Recreation budget request presented by Director Heather Hemphill. The agenda contains only this single item, with no other business or public hearings listed.

• FY26 Parks and Recreation Budget Request (Director Heather Hemphill)

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board is holding a workshop to discuss two pending items: a zoning amendment application (ZTA-25-03) concerning conditional zoning and Appendix A, and a conditional rezoning application (CZ-25-01) for the Waterway Community. These are listed under old business, indicating prior discussion. No votes or decisions are scheduled on the agenda.

• ZTA-25-03: Zoning amendment application for conditional zoning and Appendix A
• CZ-25-01: Conditional rezoning for Waterway Community

The Planning Board discussed the Conditional Zoning text amendment (ZTA-25-03) and the Conditional Rezoning application (CZ-25-01) for the Waterway Community, covering 46.1 acres. The board unanimously authorized the UDO Review Committee to finalize revisions and bring the items back for a recommendation at the May meeting. No final decision was made on the rezoning or text amendment.

• Authorized UDO Review Committee to finalize revisions to Conditional Zoning CZ-25-01 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda with added Public Comment item (unanimous)
• Opened and closed Public Comment with no speakers (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes a training webinar, approval of the previous meeting's minutes, and standard procedural items such as public comment and old/new business. No specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• Training - SOG Webinar
• Approval of April 2, 2025 meeting minutes
• Public comment period

The Historic Preservation Commission met but lacked a quorum, so no official business was conducted. The agenda and minutes from the previous meeting were not approved. Members reviewed the Local Designation Report and heard announcements about upcoming appointments and Historic Preservation Month.

• Agenda not approved due to lack of quorum
• April 2, 2025 meeting minutes not approved due to lack of quorum
• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting to discuss two budget requests for fiscal year 2026: the Public Works budget and the Energy budget. No votes are scheduled; the items are listed for discussion only.

• FY26 Public Works Budget Request
• FY26 Energy Budget Request

The Board of Aldermen held a special meeting to review the FY26 Public Works and Energy budget requests, but took no formal votes or decisions. Discussion covered staffing, mowing practices, cemetery maintenance, electric rates, and undergrounding projects. The meeting was informational, with staff directed to provide additional data and estimates.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• No formal budget decisions made; FY26 requests discussed only

Board of Adjustment

The Southport Board of Adjustment will hold a quasi-judicial meeting to review two special use permit applications. The board will also receive training on quasi-judicial processes.

• SUP-25-02: Special Use Permit for 204 North Rhett Street
• SUP-25-03: Special Use Permit for 217 Stuart Avenue
• Quasi-judicial process training by Brady Herman

General

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting to discuss the FY26 Fire/EMS budget, presented by Chief Charles Drew, and to review upcoming budget meeting dates with City Manager Noah Saldo. The agenda is limited to these two items, with no other business or public hearings scheduled.

• FY26 Fire/EMS Budget presentation by Chief Charles Drew
• Upcoming budget meeting dates discussion with City Manager Noah Saldo

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board will convene its regular monthly meeting on April 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The board will review and approve minutes from the March 20 meeting, hear public comment, and discuss updates from Planning and Zoning, Planning Services, and a liaison representative.

• Conditional Zoning Text Amendment (Maureen Meehan)
• Conditional Rezoning Application (Maureen Meehan)
• Planning and Zoning Updates (Wendell Biddle)
• Planning Services Director Updates (Maureen Meehan)
• Liaison Update (Alderman Lai)

The Planning Board discussed a proposed text amendment to allow conditional zoning in residential districts, tied to the Waterway (formerly Indigo Phase I) development. No final decision was made; the board reached consensus to hold a public workshop on May 2 at 10:00 AM at Indian Trail Meeting Hall to continue discussion and gather public input. The board also approved the March 20, 2025 meeting minutes and the agenda unanimously.

• Approved March 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Scheduled May 2 workshop on conditional zoning text amendment and Waterway rezoning (consensus, no formal vote)
• No action taken on conditional zoning text amendment; discussion continued

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will consider setting fire district fees/taxes, discuss the Old City Hall/Courthouse, receive a legislative update, and address water issues in Northwood Cemetery. The agenda also includes several consent items, proclamations, and committee reports. A closed session is scheduled for attorney consultation and contract negotiations.

• Southport Fire District Fees/Tax discussion with Fire Chief Charles Drew
• Old City Hall/Courthouse discussion with City Manager Noah Saldo
• Legislative Update from Planning Services Director Maureen Meehan and City Attorney Brady Herman
• Water in Northwood Cemetery discussion with Aldermen Spencer and Public Works Director Tom Stanley
• Arbor Day Proclamation and Veterans Memorial Ceremony request approval

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting to discuss the Community Relations budget for fiscal year 2026, presented by Director Allayna Taylor. The agenda contains only this single item, with no other business or public hearings listed.

• Community Relations FY26 Budget discussion

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is meeting to discuss several items, including the Capital Improvement Program, stormwater improvements for Bonnetts Creek, design standards for the local historic district, and a specialty license plate. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Capital Improvement Program presentation by City Engineer Bob Jarvis
• Bonnetts Creek Phase 1 Stormwater Improvements Design by City Engineer Tom Zilinek
• Southport Local Historic District Design Standards by Historic Preservation Commission Chair Charles Drew and Planning Services Director Maureen Meehan
• Specialty Southport License Plate by Public Information Officer ChyAnn Ketchum

The Board of Aldermen approved a $478,000 contract with WK Dickson for the Bonnets Creek Phase 1 Stormwater Improvements Design, with an October 1st deadline and authorization for the City Manager to execute the documents. The board also approved moving forward with a community art contest for a specialty Southport license plate. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) was presented but not formally adopted; a subcommittee or work session was recommended for further review. The Historic Preservation Commission's draft design standards were discussed but no action was taken.

• Approved $478,000 contract with WK Dickson for Bonnets Creek Phase 1 Stormwater Improvements Design (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with specialty Southport license plate contest (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Opened and closed public comment (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:26 a.m. (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting with a single substantive item: a presentation and discussion of the FY26 Police Department budget by City Manager Noah Saldo and Police Chief Todd Coring. No vote or decision is listed on the agenda; the item is listed for discussion only.

• FY26 Police Department budget review with City Manager Noah Saldo and Police Chief Todd Coring

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The main items are an edit to the Design Standards, an amendment to the District Map, and a draft Local Designation Report. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and public comment.

• Edit on Design Standards
• Amendment to District Map
• Local Designation Report (Draft)
• Approval of February 19, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes
• Approval of March 5, 2025 Meeting Minutes

The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved an amendment to the proposed historic district map, removing areas with many non-contributing structures, including the Yacht Basin and the west side of Kingsley Drive. The boundary will now follow the centerline of South Caswell and West Moore Streets. The Commission also reviewed a draft Local Designation Report and voted to accept it as a good report subject to further staff review.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Feb 19, 2025 special meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Mar 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Amended district map to exclude Yacht Basin and west Kingsley Drive, align boundary with street centerlines (unanimous)
• Accepted draft Local Designation Report as good, subject to further staff review (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board is holding a special meeting to review and possibly take action on a recommendation regarding the Old City Hall/Courthouse at 201 E Moore St. The agenda includes public comment and old business, with this property review as the main substantive item.

• Review and possible action on Old City Hall/Courthouse at 201 E Moore St

The Southport Planning Board held a special meeting to review the proposed relocation of the Police Department to the old courthouse at 201 E. Moore St. No formal decision was made; the board heard public comments, staff reports, and board discussion, and scheduled a field trip and a work session for further consideration.

• Opened and closed public comment unanimously
• Scheduled a field trip to the old courthouse for further review
• Scheduled a work session for April 1, 2025, on the courthouse recommendation

Board of Adjustment

The Southport Board of Adjustment approved a Special Use Permit for an accessory dwelling unit at 218 W St George St, with conditions that it be built with the main house and not rented separately. The board also approved variances for a proposed Home2 Suites hotel on Eason Street, allowing reduced frontage/access requirements and a building height of 50 feet 6 inches, subject to further Technical Review Committee and Planning Board review. Both decisions were unanimous.

• Approved Special Use Permit SUP-25-01 for ADU at 218 W St George St (unanimous)
• Approved variance for ingress/egress on major thoroughfare for Home2 Suites hotel (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 200-ft frontage on major thoroughfare for Home2 Suites hotel (unanimous)
• Approved variance for building height exceeding 40-ft limit for Home2 Suites hotel (unanimous)
• Approved variance application with conditions requiring TRC review and tying variance to hotel use (unanimous)
• Adopted written order for 406 Brunswick St floodplain appeal (unanimous)

General

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold a regular meeting to review the proposed budgets for the Board & Administration and Finance departments, presented by the City Manager and Finance Director. The board will also consider a resolution opposing HB337, which concerns Southport deannexations. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed.

• Board & Administration Budget presentation by City Manager Noah Saldo
• Finance Department Budget presentation by Finance Director Lance Flint
• Resolution opposing HB337 Southport deannexations

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board is meeting to consider amendments to the Unified Ordinance, including stormwater regulations and updates for state 160D consistency. The board will also receive updates on planning and zoning activities.

• Unified Ordinance Amendment to Article 6 Stormwater Regulations - introduction and presentation
• Unified Development Ordinance Updates for 160D Consistency
• Approval of February 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Planning and Zoning Updates
• Planning Services Director's Updates

The Planning Board heard a detailed presentation on a proposed Stormwater Management Ordinance amendment and voted to forward it to the UDO Review Committee for further refinement. The board also unanimously approved four state-mandated zoning text amendments for consistency with Chapter 160D, forwarding them to the Board of Aldermen. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Forwarded proposed Stormwater Management Ordinance to UDO Review Committee (unanimous)
• Approved four zoning text amendments for 160D consistency, forwarded to Board of Aldermen (unanimous)
• Approved February 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen is holding a special meeting to discuss the North Howe Street Overlay District, a zoning matter. Following that, the board will enter a closed session to discuss negotiating the price and terms of a real property acquisition, as allowed by state law. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed.

• North Howe Street Overlay District discussion
• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(5) for real property acquisition negotiations

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold its regular meeting on March 13, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The agenda includes approval of a consent agenda with paving and grant budget amendments, public hearings on zoning text amendments, and a final plat review for the Waters at Southport development.

• Paving Contract and Budget Amendment (Consent Agenda)
• BRIC Grant Budget Amendment (Consent Agenda)
• Public Hearing for Special Event UDO Text Amendment (April 10, 2025)
• Public Hearing on minimum parking and landscaping UDO amendments
• Waters at Southport Final Plat review

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board is holding a special meeting to discuss the Old City Hall/Courthouse property, led by City Manager Noah Saldo. The board will recess for a building tour, then reconvene for additional questions or comments. The agenda contains no other business items.

• Discussion of Old City Hall/Courthouse (City Manager Noah Saldo)
• Recess for building tour
• Reconvene for questions or comments

Historic Preservation Commission

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The main items are a final review of the draft design standards and a draft local designation report. The commission will also receive updates on the down-zoning law and handle routine approvals of minutes and agenda.

• Final review of draft design standards
• Local designation report (draft)
• Updates on down-zoning law
• Approval of February 5, 2025 meeting minutes

The Commission unanimously adopted the final draft of the Design Standards with corrections, including a revised section allowing vinyl and aluminum materials on a case-by-case basis for commercial or non-residential use. The document will be sent to the Board of Aldermen as an informational item ahead of a formal presentation in April. No other substantive decisions were made; the Local Designation Report was not yet available.

• Adopted final draft Design Standards with corrections (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to send finalized Design Standards to Board of Aldermen as informational item
• Targeted April 7 Board of Aldermen meeting for formal presentation

General

The Southport Board of Aldermen will discuss two main items: a BRIC stormwater grant and the Old City Hall/Courthouse project with Moseley Architects. The meeting also includes routine reports and public comment.

• BRIC Stormwater Grant discussion
• Old City Hall/Courthouse project with Moseley Architects
• Finance Report

The Board of Aldermen voted 4-2 to designate the Old City Hall Courthouse at 201 E. Moore Street for use as a Southport City Department and Board Chambers, and to send draft designs to the Planning Board for review and recommendation within 30 days. The motion did not specify the Police Department, though the design was for police use. The vote was 4-2, with Aldermen Lai, Spencer, Kelley, and Carroll in favor, and Aldermen Davis and Mosteller against.

• Designated Old City Hall Courthouse for city department and Board Chambers use (4-2)
• Sent draft designs to Planning Board for review and recommendation within 30 days (4-2)
• Approved agenda unanimously
• Opened and closed public comment unanimously

Board of Adjustment

The Southport Board of Adjustment is meeting to handle routine procedural items, including approving minutes and entering a closed session for attorney consultation. The main substantive item is a continued floodplain appeal for 406 Brunswick St, which was previously postponed.

• Approval of January 28, 2025 Board of Adjustment minutes
• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11 to consult with attorney
• Continued floodplain appeal for 406 Brunswick St

The Board of Adjustment voted 4-3 to reverse the staff's determination that the project at 406 West Brunswick Street exceeded the 50% substantial improvement threshold, thereby granting the appeal. The decision was based on evidence that certain costs should not be counted and that the addition was not structurally connected to the original structure. The board also postponed approval of the January 28, 2025 minutes and training procedures, and held a closed session for attorney consultation.

• Reversed staff's 50% threshold determination for 406 Brunswick St (4-3, Chair casting deciding vote)
• Postponed approval of January 28, 2025 minutes (4-2)
• Postponed training procedures and policies (unanimous)
• Held closed session for attorney consultation (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board will hold its regular monthly meeting, including approval of minutes, public comment, and a closed session for attorney consultation. The main business items are a major site plan for 101 E Moore St and a text amendment regarding special events. The board will also receive project updates and announcements.

• Major Site Plan for 101 E Moore St (Maureen Meehan)
• Special Events Text Amendment (Wendell Biddle)
• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(3) for attorney-client consultation
• Approval of January 16, 2025 meeting minutes

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will consider a rezoning and PUD modification for Cades Cove subdivision to allow a gated entrance on Robert Ruark Drive and convert streets to private. The Planning Board recommends denial, citing inconsistency with the land use plan. The board will also hear updates on Old City Hall's potential use for police and administration, and discuss other items including a property sale extension and concession agreements.

• Cades Cove rezoning and PUD modification for gated entrance and private streets
• Old City Hall update with preliminary police space needs and cost estimate
• NC Wildlife Sunny Point property sale extension request
• Concession agreements discussion
• Potential UDO updates

The Board of Aldermen voted 4-2 to deny the Cades Cove rezoning and land map amendment, which would have allowed a gate at the Robert Ruark Drive entrance. The decision keeps the streets open for connectivity, as recommended by staff and the Planning Board. The Board also approved two concession agreements with the Southport Historical Society, extended discussions on the Old City Hall police station project, and failed to extend the NC Wildlife property option agreement.

• Denied Cades Cove Land Use Consistency Statement and Land Map Amendment (4-2)
• Approved Susie Carson Research Room Concession Agreement with Southport Historical Society (unanimous)
• Approved Old Jail lease agreement with Southport Historical Society (unanimous)
• Failed to extend NC Wildlife option agreement for Southport-White Springs property (4-3)
• Appointed Fox Rothschild as special Shoreline Stabilization attorney, contract not to exceed $40,000 (unanimous)
• Adopted Interim City Manager's contract (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hear the FY 23-24 audit presentation, hold a public hearing on a Yacht Basin Overlay text amendment, and receive a Comprehensive Plan update. The consent agenda includes a sidewalk repair contract, setting a public hearing for a rights-of-way UDO update, and resolutions requesting state action on a prepared meals tax referendum and restoring local downzoning authority. The board will also go into closed session to discuss real property acquisition and personnel matters.

• Sidewalk Repair Contract (consent agenda)
• Resolution requesting General Assembly to allow a Prepared Meals Tax referendum
• Resolution requesting General Assembly to adopt House Bill 24 restoring local downzoning authority
• Public Hearing for Yacht Basin Overlay UDO Text Amendment
• Shoreline Stabilization Task Order #5

The Board of Aldermen approved two resolutions: one requesting state legislation to allow a voter referendum on a 1% prepared meals tax, and another supporting House Bill 24 to restore local downzoning authority. They also approved a zoning text amendment for a Yacht Basin Overlay District, sent the Comprehensive Plan to state review, and hired Noah Saldo as Interim City Manager.

• Approved resolution requesting state legislation for a prepared meals tax referendum (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting House Bill 24 to restore local downzoning authority (unanimous)
• Approved Yacht Basin Overlay District zoning text and map amendments (unanimous)
• Approved sending Comprehensive Plan to NC Division of Coastal Management for review (4-1)
• Approved contract with Olsen Associates for shoreline stabilization design and permitting (unanimous)
• Hired Noah Saldo as Interim City Manager (unanimous)

General

The Board of Aldermen will hear a presentation of the proposed FY 25-26 budget from the City Manager and discuss it, along with next steps in the budget process. The meeting also includes a closed session to consider personnel matters as allowed by state law.

• Presentation of proposed FY 25-26 budget
• Discussion of budget process next steps
• Closed session under NCGS 143-318.11(6) for personnel matters

Historic Preservation Commission

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting to approve minutes, discuss draft design standards, and consider a memorial plaque proposal for Franklin Square Park. Updates on a down-zoning law will also be provided.

• Commission Member Comments on Draft Design Standards
• Friends of Franklin - Memorial Plaque for Franklin Square Park
• Local Designation Report (Draft)
• Updates on Down-Zoning Law

General

The Southport Planning Board is holding a special meeting on February 4, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The agenda includes a single item of old business: discussion of the Yacht Basin Overlay, led by Maureen Meehan. The meeting will also include public comment.

• Discussion of Yacht Basin Overlay (Maureen Meehan)

General

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 AM on February 3, 2025, at 223 E. Bay Street. The board will consider a street opening ordinance and a revision to the streetlight map. The meeting is open to the public and available via live-stream.

• Street Opening Ordinance (City Engineer Tom Zilinek)
• Streetlight Map Revision (Energy Manager Larry Ditton)

Board of Adjustment

The Southport Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting with new member swearing-in, officer elections, and approval of prior minutes. The main business includes a floodplain appeal for 406 Brunswick St and a variance request for 101 E Moore St, both presented by Mo Meehan.

• 406 Brunswick St floodplain appeal
• 101 E Moore St variance request
• Swearing-in of new board members
• Selection of chair and vice chair
• Approval of January 7, 2025 meeting minutes

Planning Board

The Southport Planning Board will hold its regular monthly meeting, including approval of minutes, swearing in new members, and selecting a chair and vice chair. The main business includes reviewing a major site plan for 101 E Moore St (Bull Frog Corner), a bed and breakfast text amendment, a parking overlay text amendment, and new UDO text amendments for right-of-way. Public comment is also scheduled.

• Major Site Plan - 101 E Moore St - Bull Frog Corner
• Bed and Breakfast Text Amendment
• Parking Overlay Text Amendment
• ROW UDO Text Amendments
• Approval of December 19, 2024 minutes

The Southport Planning Board tabled the major site plan for 101 E Moore St (Bullfrog Corner) for further review by a committee and discussion at the February meeting. The board also tabled a bed-and-breakfast text amendment and formed a review committee for the Yacht Basin parking overlay after a motion to approve the overlay failed. The board approved UDO text amendments for rights-of-way parking and landscaping, forwarding them to the Board of Aldermen.

• Tabled major site plan for 101 E Moore St (Bullfrog Corner) for further committee review (unanimous)
• Tabled bed-and-breakfast text amendment for further review (unanimous)
• Motion to approve parking overlay text amendment failed (3-2)
• Formed review committee for Yacht Basin parking overlay
• Approved ROW UDO text amendments for parking and landscaping (unanimous)
• Re-elected Sue Hodgin as chair (unanimous)
• Elected Kevin Locklin as vice chair (unanimous)
• Approved December 19, 2024 minutes with revisions (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold a regular meeting with several substantive items, including a rezoning and PUD modification for the Cades Cove Subdivision, an update on the Cape Fear Regional Jetport, a presentation on the Southport 2050 Comprehensive Plan, and a review of the street lighting policy. The board will also consider appointments to the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, and Parks and Recreation Committee.

• Rezoning and PUD modification for Cades Cove Subdivision
• Cape Fear Regional Jetport update
• Southport 2050 Comprehensive Plan presentation
• Review of Southport Street Lighting Policy
• Board and committee appointments

The Board of Aldermen tabled a decision on the Cades Cove HOA's request to rezone and modify their PUD to gate their subdivision, after a motion to deny failed 4-3. Instead, the Board unanimously directed the City Attorney to consult with the Cades Cove attorney regarding the legality of expired street dedications. The Board also approved the Parks and Recreation Committee's recommendations for Franklin Square Park, with added terms prohibiting vendor events except the Farmers Market, in a 4-2 vote.

• Tabled Cades Cove PUD amendment and gate request (motion to deny failed 4-3)
• Directed City Attorney to consult with Cades Cove attorney on expired street dedications (unanimous)
• Adopted Franklin Square Park recommendations with no vendors except Farmers Market (4-2)
• Removed street lighting policy item from agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including Old City Hall HVAC (unanimous)
• Appointed John Bove, Larry Ashley, Robert Lambert, Kevin Locklin to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Chris Eckert, John Allen, Rodney Ross, Steve Dosher to Board of Adjustment (unanimous)
• Appointed Andrew Brosche to Parks and Recreation Committee (4-2)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Southport Historic Preservation Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The main item of business is a final draft of Design Standards, which the commission will review. The meeting also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and public comment.

• Final Draft - Design Standards
• Approval of December 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Public comment period

The Commission discussed the final draft of the Design Standards, which is still in progress with consultant revisions. They reviewed a tentative timeline aiming for approval by July 2025, but noted a new state law requiring 100% property owner consent for down-zoning could complicate the historic district creation. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 4, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment

The Southport Board of Adjustment will hold a special meeting to consider a special use permit application for an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at 6249 Lookout Point Dr, submitted by Wendell Biddle. The board will also review and approve minutes from its October and November 2024 meetings. The meeting includes a quasi-judicial process explanation and an ethics statement.

• Special use permit application for ADU at 6249 Lookout Point Dr by Wendell Biddle
• Approval of minutes from October 22, 2024 meeting
• Approval of minutes from November 26, 2024 meeting

The Southport Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a special use permit for a 798-square-foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above the garage of a residence under construction at 6249 Lookout Point Drive. The approval includes conditions that the ADU cannot be rented separately and must be built per the submitted plans. The board also discussed potential text amendments to clarify ADU definitions but took no action on them.

• Approved special use permit for ADU at 6249 Lookout Point Dr (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 22, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 26, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Aldermen

The Southport Board of Aldermen will hold a regular meeting with several discussion items, including a strategic needs assessment, a street opening ordinance, an update on the Old City Hall/Courthouse building, shoreline stabilization access, and a specialty license plate. The board will also enter a closed session to discuss real property negotiations and personnel matters.

• City Manager's Strategic Needs Assessment (Pgs.3-14)
• Street Opening Ordinance presented by City Engineer Tom Zilinek (Pgs.15-27)
• Old City Hall/Courthouse Building Update by City Engineer Tom Zilinek
• Shoreline Stabilization Access by City Engineer Bob Jarvis (Pgs.28-29)
• Specialty Southport License Plate by Public Information Officer ChyAnn Ketchum (Pgs.30-33)