Wrightsville Beach public meetings in 2022
26 substantive meetings from 2022, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen will discuss and possibly act on several items, including a request from Station One Condos for a right-of-way encroachment along South Lumina Avenue to replace a wooden fence, directions on applying for a 2023 NC Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grant for improvements to Wrightsville Beach Park, and a request from the Wrightsville Beach Foundation regarding naming/sponsorship of tennis and future pickleball courts. Also on the agenda is approval of Duke Energy installing an electric vehicle charging station on town property, and an update on the town's Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.
- Request from Station One Condos for right-of-way encroachment along South Lumina Avenue to replace existing wooden fence
- Directions on applying for 2023 NC Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grant for Wrightsville Beach Park improvements
- Request from Wrightsville Beach Foundation regarding naming/sponsorship of existing tennis court facilities and future pickleball courts
- Consider approval of Duke Energy installing an electric vehicle charging station on town property
- Update and direction on town's Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan efforts
The Board of Aldermen approved a contract for Duke Energy to install electric vehicle charging stations and authorized applying for a Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grant. The Board also approved a right-of-way encroachment for a fence replacement and a partial funding request for a memorial garden.
- Approved Duke Energy contract for 4 EV charging stations (unanimous)
- Approved applying for 2023 Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grant (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution (2022) 2280 for Station One Inc. fence encroachment (unanimous)
- Approved $900 expenditure for Blue Star Memorial Garden sign (4-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda including 2023 meeting and holiday schedules (unanimous)
- Tabled naming/sponsorship of tennis and pickle ball facilities
- Approved remote participation for Aldermen Dull and Partin (unanimous)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will consider a request to continue a C-3 text amendment until January. The board also discussed a proposed text amendment to allow smaller residential units in mixed-use projects in the C-3 district and to reduce side and rear yard setbacks. No decisions were made on the C-3 amendment.
- C-3 Text Amendment: applicant requested to open and continue item until January
- Proposed text amendment to allow residential units under 1,500 sq ft in C-3 mixed-use district, with minimum 625 sq ft and average 700 sq ft
- Proposed reduction of side and rear yard setbacks from 20 ft to 7.5 ft in C-3 district
- Proposed allowance for 36-inch parapet wall to screen rooftop mechanical equipment
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen will hold a regular meeting to discuss and possibly act on several items, including a presentation on pursuing a Blue Star Memorial designation, discussion on naming/sponsorship of tennis and pickleball facilities, and recommendations from an Ad Hoc Committee on setback regulations. The board will also consider approving a budget adjustment to replace the Road Show Box at the town's event stage.
- Presentation and request to pursue a Blue Star Designation (Partin)
- Discussion on naming/sponsorship of existing tennis court and facilities and future pickleball courts
- Presentation by Ad Hoc Committee on recommendations for changes in setback regulations
- Consider approving budget adjustment (2022) 579-8 to replace the Road Show Box at the event stage
- Approval of special event permits including UNCW Pi Kappa Alpha Fire Truck Pull, Jingle at the Beach, NC Azalea Festival Sun Run 5k, Novant Wilmington Marathon, and Wahine Classic Surf Competition
The Board of Aldermen approved funding for a road show box at the town's event stage and the placement of a Blue Star By-Way Marker in Harbor Way Gardens. The Board also approved several special event requests and the appointment of Alderman Partin to the Tourism Development Authority board.
- Approved Ordinance (2022) 579-B to fund replacement of road show box at event stage (Unanimous)
- Approved placement of Blue Star By-Way Marker and sponsorship wording (Unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance No. (2022) 578-B for FY21-22 attorney’s fees (Unanimous)
- Approved appointment of Alderman Partin to Tourism Development Authority board (Unanimous)
- Approved special event requests for Pi Kappa Alpha Fire Truck Pull, Jingle at the Beach, NC Azalea Festival Sun Run 5k, Novant Wilmington Marathon, and Wahine Classic Surf Competition (Unanimous)
- Rescheduled December Board meeting to December 12 at 9:00am (Unanimous)
- Deferred consideration of bank account changes to December 12 meeting
- Tabled decision on Wrightsville Beach Foundation naming/sponsorship of tennis and pickle ball courts for staff review
Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee
The committee approved the 2023 Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market Rules and Regulations, which include updated fees and dates. Members discussed a proposal from the Wrightsville Beach Foundation regarding naming rights and sponsorships for a racquet facility, but no action was taken on the matter.
- Approved 2023 Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market Rules and Regulations
- Approved September 12, 2022 meeting minutes
- Approved October 3, 2022 meeting minutes
- Decided not to move forward with a motion to remove parking spaces on Causeway Drive
Planning Board
The Planning Board will discuss two text amendments and a town asset naming request. One amendment would allow elevators to encroach four feet into side and rear setbacks. Another concerns C-3 zoning text changes. The board will also consider a request from the Wrightsville Beach Foundation to reserve naming rights for existing and future tennis and pickleball courts behind town hall, with a proposed 25-year sponsorship term once a donation is made.
- Setback Encroachment Text Amendment: Allow elevators and lifts to encroach 4 feet into side and rear yard setbacks
- C-3 Text Amendment (details not provided in agenda)
- Town Asset Naming: Wrightsville Beach Foundation requests right to name existing and future tennis/pickleball courts behind town hall
- Proposed 25-year naming sponsorship term with donation amount to be determined
- Board of Aldermen previously voted to follow state statute 160D-601 for the setback amendment process rather than charter referendum
Ad Hoc Committee
The Ad Hoc Committee is reviewing a draft report regarding permitted encroachments into residential building setbacks. The discussion includes rules for utility equipment stands, outdoor showers, and arbors in the R-1 and R-2 districts.
- Review of proposed limits on utility/service equipment stands (maximum 30 feet)
- Proposed allowance for one outdoor shower for single family units
- Proposed allowance for two outdoor showers for duplex family units
- Discussion regarding accessory buildings and beach walkovers in required yards
- Recommendations for the inclusion of arbors within fences or walls
The Committee approved a draft report following discussions on utility service equipment stands and arbors. The group reached a consensus to allow utility stands on both side and rear yards, with stairs permitted only on the side with the power meter. They also agreed that arbors could be part of contiguous landscaping.
- Approved minutes of the 10/21 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved remote participation of Neal Briggi (unanimous)
- Approved draft report subject to final completion by Wessell (unanimous)
Ad Hoc Committee
The Ad Hoc Committee will review and vote on a draft report to the Board of Aldermen containing recommendations on permitted encroachments into building setbacks, including limits on utility equipment stands, outdoor showers, lifts, and arbors. The report is based on previous discussions and consensus reached at prior meetings.
- Recommendation to limit utility equipment stands to 30 feet in length, one side in R-1 district, both sides in R-2 district
- Recommendation to permit outdoor showers up to 4'x8' with no sewer connection and 12-inch open bottom
- Recommendation to allow one outdoor lift per property, encroaching up to 4 feet into any yard, with no exterior covering
- Recommendation to permit arbors only as part of a fence or wall, max height 7.5 feet, max depth 6 inches
- Recommendation to delete subsections (7) and (8) of Sec. 155.2.10(B) regarding accessory buildings and beach walkovers
The Ad Hoc Committee reviewed a draft report but took no final votes or decisions. Discussion covered utility equipment stands in setbacks and non-conforming duplexes in R-1 district, but no resolution was reached. The report will be re-drafted for the next meeting on October 26.
- Approved minutes of 10/5 meeting (unanimous)
- Scheduled next meeting for October 26, 2022 at 10:00am
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen will hold public hearings and consider several items, including a bike and pedestrian improvement project on Causeway Drive, a ban on unencapsulated polystyrene in pier and dock construction, and multiple budget amendments for grants and studies. The meeting also includes approval of special event permits and a closed session for legal consultation.
- Public hearing on Causeway Drive Bike and Pedestrian Improvement Project
- Public hearing and possible adoption of Ordinance (2022) 1842 banning unencapsulated polystyrene in pier/dock construction
- Consideration of Budget Amendment (2022) 576-B for a Bike and Pedestrian Plan using grant funds
- Consideration of application for a Division of Coastal Management Grant for a Beach Management Plan
- Consideration of acceptance of 51% interest in property near Parmele Blvd.
Ad Hoc Committee
The committee is meeting to review the length of utility equipment stands and an email from Jim Smith regarding setbacks. The body is discussing guidance for allowable encroachments into residential setbacks to maintain light, air circulation, and emergency access.
- Report on length of Utility Equipment Stands
- Review of email from Jim Smith regarding pool equipment and up-lighting in setbacks
- Discussion of permitted items in setbacks including lifts, showers, and landscaping
Ad Hoc Committee
The committee is discussing regulations for items encroaching into yard setbacks and open spaces. Members are reviewing public safety impacts and comparing ordinances from Carolina Beach and Kure Beach.
- Review of issues regarding utility service equipment platform size, stairs, and enclosures
- Discussion of regulations for elevator lifts, showers, and landscaping in setbacks
- Review of encroachment ordinances from Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
- Assessment of public safety and firefighter access regarding items in yard setbacks
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen is considering several budget adjustments for stormwater and parking projects, as well as the approval of the town's ADA Transition Plan and 2022 Emergency Operations Plan. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding pedestrian and bike improvements on Causeway Drive.
- Public hearing on Causeway Drive Bike and Pedestrian Improvement Project
- Budget Adjustment 575-B for Visitor Survey Project and Town Hall parking lot engineering
- Budget Amendment 574-B for stormwater improvements at Arrindale Street/South Lumina Avenue and East Asheville Street
- Proposed public hearing on October 13, 2022, regarding polystyrene prohibitions in pier and dock construction
- Special use permit application for a carry-out restaurant at 7006 Wrightsville Avenue
Planning Board
The Planning Board is reviewing a proposed text amendment to require encapsulated polystyrene material for all floating pier and dock construction. This measure aims to prevent polystyrene beads from polluting coastal waterways and harming marine wildlife.
- Proposed Ordinance No. (2022) 1842 to prohibit unencapsulated polystyrene on floating docks, piers, or walkways
- Review of text amendment concerning regulations for encapsulated dock floats
- Discussion of a special-use permit for a carryout restaurant at 7006 Wrightsville Ave (approved 7-0 with conditions)
Board of Aldermen
The Board will consider a resolution for Causeway Drive improvements and a request regarding water access steps. Additional items include a marshland property interest, Board of Adjustment appointments, and the creation of a Deputy Fire Chief position.
- Resolution (2022) 2279 for resurfacing and restriping Causeway Drive with bike lanes
- Public hearing for a Special Use Permit for a carry out restaurant at 7006 Wrightsville Ave.
- Discussion of water access steps at the end of West Asheville Street
- Acceptance of a 51% interest in 16.05 acres of marshland on Parmele Blvd.
- Creation of a Deputy Fire Chief position and associated pay scale
Planning Board
The Planning Board is reviewing a special-use permit application to convert a vacant gas station into a carryout restaurant at 7006 Wrightsville Avenue. The board will also hear a presentation regarding encapsulated dock floats.
- Special Use Permit: Carryout restaurant at 7006 Wrightsville Avenue
- Presentation: Encapsulated Dock Floats by Coastal Federation
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen will consider a $75,000 budget adjustment for water line improvements. Other items include a mixed-use permit request, special event permits, and the creation of a Deputy Fire Chief position.
- $75,000 budget adjustment for water line improvements
- Mixed use permit request for 4 North Lumina Avenue
- Special Use Permit request for 7006 Wrightsville Ave
- Creation of a Deputy Fire Chief position and pay scale
- Special event permits for YMCA Triathlon and Red Bull Foam Wreckers
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen will hold a public hearing to consider the proposed Fiscal Year 2022/23 Budget and Budget Ordinance (2022)570-B. The meeting includes discussions on zoning text amendments and the potential creation of a Deputy Fire Chief position.
- Proposed Fiscal Year 2022/23 Budget and Budget Ordinance (2022)570-B
- Resolution No. (2022)2274 adopting the 2022 Hurricane Operations Plan
- Public hearing for a mixed use permit at 4 North Lumina Avenue for three residential units and one storage unit
- Text amendments for residential elevator/wheelchair lifts in R-1 district and retaining wall standards
- Proposed creation of a Deputy Fire Chief position to begin after July 1, 2022
Planning Board
The Planning Board reviewed several text amendments and a special-use permit application. The board voted against forwarding favorable recommendations to the Board of Aldermen for two specific text amendments regarding elevator setbacks and retaining wall heights.
- Denied favorable recommendation for text amendment 155.8.9 regarding elevators encroaching into side yard setbacks (vote 1-6).
- Denied favorable recommendation for text amendment 155.2.10 (B) to allow retaining walls up to 72 inches (vote 3-4).
- Discussed a Mixed-Use, Special-Use Permit Application for 1 Stone Street Partners, LLC at 4 N. Lumina Avenue.
- Continued discussion on standards for the S-1 Zoning District, specifically regarding kayak rack height.
- Discussed a potential future presentation from the Coastal Federation regarding floating dock ordinances.
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen will hold public hearings on zoning text amendments and a mixed-use project. Members will also discuss infrastructure projects and the disposal of a town vehicle.
- Budget Ordinance No. (2022) 569-B for $40,000 to install speed humps on Coral Drive
- Public hearing for a mixed use project conceptual plan at 4 North Lumina Avenue
- Public hearing for text amendments regarding residential elevators in R-1 districts and retaining wall standards
- Discussion on extending the pier head line for 920 Water Street
- Proposed sale of a 1996 Sutphin Quint Ladder Truck via GovDeals
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen will discuss employee pay raises and several infrastructure projects. The meeting includes decisions on speed limit changes, street renaming, and the approval of engineering firms for water and resilience projects.
- Proposed 10% pay increase for Wrightsville Beach full-time employees
- Budget Ordinance No. (2022) 567-B for $200,000 for office and break room projects
- Budget Ordinance No. (2022) 568-B for $70,000 for Highfill Engineering risk assessment
- Seasonal speed limit reduction on Waynick Boulevard from 35 mph to 25 mph
- Proposed installation of speed humps on Coral Drive and Second Avenue
Planning Board
The Planning Board reviewed a text amendment regarding residential elevator and wheelchair lift exceptions in the R-1 District. They also discussed development standards for kayak racks and decking within the S-1 Shore Zone.
- Text amendment to allow residential elevators/wheelchair lifts in R-1 District setbacks
- Proposed kayak rack and 192 square foot deck at 619 Waynick Blvd
- Recommendation for kayak rack posts to have a maximum height of seven feet
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen will discuss purchasing up to 150 million gallons of water from the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority. The meeting includes votes on police equipment, stormwater improvements, and updates to the Town Code of Ordinances.
- Interlocal Agreement to purchase up to 150 million gallons of water with a $100,000 budget ordinance
- Stormwater improvements for Arrindale Street and East Asheville Street totaling $165,000
- Budget Ordinance (2022) 565-B for $160,000 to buy three F150 pickup trucks and repair the Police Department Sally Port gate
- Public hearing for Text Amendments to Chapter 155 of the Town Code of Ordinances
- Contract with UNCW for a visitor survey and $12,000 for Visitor’s Center staffing
Planning Board
The Planning Board discussed a text amendment to reduce minimum square footage requirements for residential units in the C-1 District. The board voted to forward a favorable recommendation for the change, which includes specific averaging requirements for unit sizes and parking adjustments.
- Text Amendment to 155.9.1.5: Reduce minimum square footage from 1,500 to 500 sq ft for residential units in C-1 District
- Proposed requirement: Residential units must have at least 500 sq ft of heated space with a lot average of 675 sq ft
- Proposed parking change: Reduce required parking to 1 space per unit/toilet in the C-1 District
- Discussion of Chapter 160D: Adoption of state legislative framework for local planning and development
Planning Board
The provided document contains the table of contents for the Wrightsville Beach Unified Development Ordinance. This text outlines the regulatory framework for zoning, land use, and development standards within the jurisdiction.
- Unified Development Ordinance (Ord. 1695, adopted 11-8-12)
Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen will discuss the purchase of 150 million gallons of water from CFPUA and the issuance of an RFP for town sanitation services. The meeting includes several appointments to town boards and commissions and a discussion on the use of ARPA funding.
- Budget Ordinance No. (2022) 551-B for $250,000 to purchase water from CFPUA
- RFP for Town Sanitation Services and reduction of residential collection to 1-day-a-week
- PARTF Grant for Pickleball Courts and Wrightsville Beach Park improvements
- Setting a February 10 public hearing for text amendments to off-street parking and mixed-use commercial residential definitions
- Commemorative bench sponsorship via a $1,200 donation from Wrightsville Beach Foundation
Planning Board
The Board of Aldermen is filling vacancies on the Planning Board, Historic Landmark Commission, and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee. Residents must submit applications by 5:00 p.m. on January 6, 2022.
- Appointments to the Planning Board
- Appointments to the Historic Landmark Commission
- Appointments to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee
Planning Board
The Planning Board reviewed a request to rename part of Seawater Drive to Everett Ward Drive. They also discussed a text amendment regarding reduced residential square footage requirements for mixed-use buildings in the C-1 District.
- Street renaming: portion of Seawater Drive from West Salisbury Street to Seawall Drive
- Text Amendment: reduction of minimum residential unit size from 1,500 to 500 square feet in C-1 District
- Recommendation: Board forwarded a favorable recommendation for the street renaming to the Board of Aldermen