[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]








                                       1997 CAMA Land Use Plan
                                       Town of Carolina Beach, North Carolina



























                                       Prepared bv
                                       The Town of Carolina Beach Planning Board




                                       Technical w@sisfance bi,
                                       Glenn Harbeck Associates
                                       Planning and Public Involvement

                                       Adopted by The Town of Carolina Beach on 5/13/97
                                       Adopted by Coastal Resources Commission on 5/29/97






                                                                             N A








                                                                             C A


                                                       Town of Carolina Beach, North Carolina
                                                              1997 CAMA LAND USE PLAN


                                                                     TOWN COUNCEL
                                                                 Anthony A. Loreti, Mayor
                                                                            Pat Efird
                                                                          Joel Macon
                                                                        Rick Burroughs
                                                                     Kimberly S. Roberts


                                                                    PLANNING BOARD
                                                                   Charles Grissom, Chair
                                                                     Sue Dean, Vice Chair
                                                                           Mike Batts
                                                                         Diane Bennett
                                                                  William (Eddie) Dunman
                                                                           John Keith
                                                                       Jerry W. Johnson
                                                                     Donald McCormack
                                                                        Peter A. Mom's
                                                                        David C. Smith


                                                                        TOWN STAFF
                                                              George B. Rose, Town Manager
                                                          Harry Oakes, Director of Development
                                                                  Jeff Harris, Town Planner
                                                                Lynn Prusa, Admin. Assistant


                                                                       CONSULTANT
                                                                  Glenn Harbeck Associates
                                                       Community Planning & Public Involvement
                                                                     5407 Keswick Court
                                                                   Wilmington, NC. 28409


                                                              STATE REPRESENTATIVES
                                                                Zoe Bruner, District Planner
                                                          G. Wade Home, CRAC Representative



                                                 The preparation of this document was fmanced in part through a grant
                                                 provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through
                                               fimds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended,
                                                  which is administered bv the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
                                                    Management, National"Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration






                                                                                             Contents

                                1.          EXECUTIVE SUMMARY                      ..................................................................................................... 1-1
                                            1.1         Summary of Local Land Use Issues                    ............................................................................ 1-1
                                            1.2         Policy Statements           .................................................................................................... 1-2
                                            1.3         The Land Classification System at Carolina Beach                             ................................................  1-15

                                2.          INTRODUCTION                 ............................................................................................................... 2-1
                                            2.1         Why prepare a CAMA Land Use Plan?                           .................................................................... 2-1
                                            2.2         Functions of the Land Use Plan                  ................................................................................ 2-1


                                "3.         COMMUNITY VISION AND OBJECTIVES                                    ......................................................................... 3-1
                                            3.1         Community Vision             ................................................................................................... 3-1
                                            3.2         Objectives       ............................................................................................................... 3-1

                                4.          SUMMARY OF DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS                                               ...................................................... 4-1
                                            4.1         Establishment of Information Base                    ........................................................................... 4-1
                                            4.2         Some Findings from the Technical Studies                        ................................................................ 4-2
                                            4.3         For Further Information              ........................................................................................... 4-2


                                5.          PRESENT CONDITIONS                      .................................................................................................... 5-1
                                            5.1         Present Population and Economy                   ............................I................................................... 5-1
                                            5.1.1       Population and Housing               ........................................................................................... 5-1
                                            5.1.2       Local Economy          ......................................................................................................... 5-5
                                            5.1.3       Impact of Seasonal Population                  ................................................................................. 5-6
                                            5.2         Existing Land and Water Uses                  .................................................................................. 5-7
                                            5.2.1       Existing Land Uses Mapped                  ..................................................................................... 5M7
                                            5.2.2       Existing Water Conditions Mapped                      .......................................................................... 5-8
                                            5.3         Current Plans, Policies and Regulations                     .................................................................... 5-9
                                            5.4         Relationship to Land Use Regulations                      .................................................................... 5-12

                                6.          CONSTRAINTS               .................................................................................................................. 6-1
                                            6.1         Land Suitability           ..................................................................................................... 6-1
                                            6.1.1       Physical Lirnitations for Development                      ..................................................................... 6-1
                                                        A.    Natural Hazard Areas                ...................................................................................... 6-1
                                                        B.    Areas with Soil Limitations                 .............................................................................. 6-1
                                                        C.    Water Supply Areas               ......................................................................................... 6-2
                                                        D.    Areas with Slopes Exceeding 12%                     ...................................................................... 6-2
                                                        E.    Shoreline Areas with High Erosion Potential                            .................................................... 6-3
                                                        F.    Small Watersheds Draining Into Special Waters                              ............................................... 6-3
                                            6.1.2       Fragile Areas          ......................................................................................................... 6-3
                                            6.1.3.      Areas with Resource Potential                  ................................................................................. 6-6
                                            6.2         Community Facilities and Services Capacity                           ........................................................... 6-7
                                            6.2.1       Wastewater Management                    ........................................................................................ 6-7
                                            6.2.2       Drinking Water Supply                ........................................................................................... 6-8
                                            6.2.3       Schools      ................................................................................................................. 6-10
                                            6.2.4       Transportation           ...................................................................................................... 6-10
                                            6.2.5       Solid Waste Disposal               ............................................................................................ 6-11
                                            6.2.6       Police Protection          .................................................................................................... 6-11
                                            6.2.7       Fire Protection          ...................................................................................................... 6-11
                                            6.2.8       Parks and Recreational Facilities                   .......................................................................... 6-11
                                            6.2.9       Public Administrative Capability                     ......................................................................... 6-12







                                                                                             Contents Contintied





                                7.           ESTIMATED DEMAND                    ....................................................................................................... 7-1
                                             7.1         Population and Economic Projections                   ......................................................................... 7-1
                                             7.2         Future Land Use Needs               ............................................................................................ 7-2
                                             7.3         Demand for Community Facilities and Services                           ........................................................ 7-2

                                8.           POLICY STATEMENTS                   ....................................................................................................... 8-1
                                             Introduction to the Policies              .................................................................................................. 8-1
                                             Policy Format         ...................................................................................................................... 8-1
                                             8.0         General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years                       ................................................................. 8-2
                                             8.1         Resource Protection Policies               ..................................................................................... 8-2
                                             8.1.0       Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Protection                              .............................................. 8-2
                                             8.1.1       Constraints Caused by Soil Limitations and Flood Prone Areas                                  .................................. 8-2
                                             8.1.2       Areas of Environmental Concern                   ............................................................................... 8-3
                                                         A.    Coastal Wetlands             ............................................................................................. 8-3
                                                         B.    Estuarine Waters           ............................................................................................... 8-4
                                                         C.    Public Trust Waters            ........................................................................................... 8-5
                                                         D.    Estuarine Shorelines            .......................................................................................... 8-6
                                                         E.    Ocean Hazard Areas               ......................................................................................... 8-7
                                             8.1.4       A.    Freshwater Wetlands               ........................................................................................ 8-8
                                                         B.    Maritime Forest and Tree Cover                  ......................................................................... 8-8
                                                         C.    Outstanding Resource Waters                 ............................................................................. 8-8
                                                         D.    Shellfishing Waters              ......................................................................................... 8-9
                                                         E.    Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values                                      ............................. 8-9
                                                         F.    Cultural and Historic Resources                 ......................................................................... 8-9
                                                         G.    Man-Made Hazards                ........................................................................................ 8-10
                                                         H.    Myrtle Grove Sound and the Cape Fear River                           ................................................... 8-10
                                                         I.    North End Natural Area                 ................................................................................. 8-11
                                                         J.    Carolina Beach Lake              ....................................................................................... 8-11
                                                         K,L,M.Buffer Zone/Carolina Beach State Park/Snows Cut                                    ..................................... 8-12
                                             8.1.5       Protection of Potable Water Supply                    .......................................................................  8-12
                                             8.1.6       Package Sewage Treatment Plants                      ......................................................................... 8-13
                                             8.1.7       Storm Water Runoff             ................................................................................................ 8-13
                                             8.1.8       A. Marinas        ............................................................................................................ 8-14
                                                         B. Floating Home Development                      ...........................................................................  8-14
                                                         C. Moorings and Mooring Fields                    ............................................................................ 8-14
                                                         D. Dry Stack Storage               ............................................................................................. 8-15
                                                         E. Commercial Fishing Operations                      .......................................................................  8-15
                                             8.1.9       Industrial Impacts On Fragile Areas                     ...................................................................... 8-15
                                             8.1.10      Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands                              ............................................... 8-16
                                             8.1.11      Development Within Areas That Might be Susceptible to Sea Level Rise                                           ............... 8-16
                                             8.1.12      Upland Excavation for Marina Basins                       .................................................................... 8-16
                                             8.1.13      Marsh Damage From Bulkhead Installation                             .......................................................... 8-17
                                             8.1.14      Water Quality Problems and Management Measures Designed to Address Them                                                  ..... 8-17
                                             8.2         Resource Production and Management Policies                           ........................................................ 8-17
                                             8.2.0       Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Production and Management                                          ................. 8-17
                                             8.2.1       Productive Agricultural Lands                  ............................................................................... 8-17
                                             8.2.2       Commercial Forest Lands                ....................................................................................... 8-18
                                             8.2.3       Mineral Production Areas-Existing and Potential                              ................................................. 8-18
                                             8.2.4       Fisheries Resources           ................................................................................................ 8-18
                                             8.2.5       Off Road Vehicles            .................................................................................................. 8-18
                                             8.2.6       Development Impacts               ............................................................................................ 8-18
                                             8.3         Economic and Community Development Policies                              ..................................................... 8-19
                                             8.3.0       Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic & Community Development                                             ................ 8-19


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                                                                                    Contents Continued



                                                    A. Growth of Town's jurisdiction             ........................................................................... 8-19
                                                    B. Building Height          .............................: ................................................................ 8-20
                                         8.3.1      Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries                       ............................. 8-20
                                         8.3.2      Provision of Services to Development, Generally                    .................................................... 8-20
                                                    A. Potable Water Supply              ..................................................................................... 8-21
                                                    B. Wastewater Treatment and Disposal                     ............................................................... 8-21
                                                    C. Solid Waste Disposal            ..................................................  ................................... 8-21
                                         8.3.3      Urban Growth Pattern Desired              ............................................................................... 8-21
                                         8.3.4      Types of Residential Development Desired                   ............................................................ 8-22
                                         8.3.5      Types of Commercial Development Desired                    ............................................................ 8-22
                                         8.3.6      Redevelopment, Including Relocation of Threatened Structures                         ............................... 8-23
                                         8.3.7      Commitment to State and Federal Programs                     ............................................................ 8-23
                                         8.3.8      Channel Maintenance, Including Interstate Waterways                         .......................................... 8-24
                                                    A. Assistance to Channel Maintenance, Including Interstate Waterways                                ................ 8-24
                                                    B. Beach Maintenance             .......................................................................................... 8-24
                                         8.3.9      Energy Facility Siting and Development                  ................................................................ 8-25
                                         8.3.10     Tourism      ................................................................................................................ 8-25
                                         8.3.11     Public Beach and Waterfront Access                ........................................................................ 8-25
                                         8.3.12     Parks and Recreation         .....................................................................................I ....... 8-26
                                         8.3.13     Boardwalk Area          ................................................................................................... 8-27
                                         8.3.14     Marina/ Boat Basin          ............................................................................................... 8-27
                                         8.3.15     State Port Facilities        .............................................................................................. 8-27
                                         8.3.16     Highway Improvements              ........................................................................................ 8-28
                                                    A Highway Improvements               ..................................................................................... 8-28
                                                    B Street System Planning           ....................................................................................... 8-28
                                                    C Bikeways       ........................................................................................................... 8-28
                                                    D Parking      .............................................................................................................. 8-29
                                                    E. Dow Road Intersection             ..................................................................................... 8-29
                                         8.3.17     Community Appearance              ......................................................................................... 8-29
                                                    A. Scenic Views and Vistas             ...............................................................................  ... 8-29
                                                    B. Neighborhood Character and Preservation                        ...................................................... 8-30
                                                    C. Historic Preservation            ...................................................................................... 8-30
                                         8.4.       Continuing Public Participation Policies               ................................................................. 8"31
                                         8.4.0      Basic Policy Statement Regarding Continuing Public Participation                            ......................... 8-31
                                         8.4.1      Land Use Plan Update Process              ................................................................................ 8-31
                                         8.4.2      Ongoing Public Participation             ................................................................................. 8-31
                                         8.4.3      Neighborhood Planning             ......................................................................................... 8-31
                                         8.5        Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post-Disaster Recovery & Evacuation Plans                               ................... 8-32
                                         8.5.0      Description of Storm Hazard Risk and Basic Policy Statement                          ................................ 8-32
                                                    A. Storm Effects         ................................................................................................... 8-32
                                                    B. Hazard Areas Mapped                .................................................................................... 8-32
                                                    C. Existing Development At Risk                  ......................................... ................................ 8-32
                                         8.5.1      Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies                ......................................................................... 8-33
                                                    A. Storm Effect Mitigation             ................................................................................... 8-33
                                                    B. Discouragement of Hazardous Development                         ..................................................... 8-33
                                                    C. Public Land Acquisition             ................................................................................... 8-34
                                                    D. Evacuation         ...................................................................................................... 8-34
                                         8.5.2      Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies              ...................................................................... 8-35
                                                    A. Emergency Management Plan                   ........................................................................... 8"35
                                                    B. Local Reconstruction Policies             ............................................................................ 8-35
                                                    C. Recovery Task Force             ......................................................................................... 8-35
                                                    D. Staging Schedule for Reconstruction and Repair                      ................................................ 8"36
                                                    E. Public Infrastructure Repairs and Replacement                      ................................................. 8-36



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                                                                                            Contents Contintied





                                 9.         LAND CLASSIFICATION                        .................................................................................................. 9-1
                                            9.1          Purpose of Land Classification and Relationship to Policies                               ..................................... 9-1
                                            9.2          The Land Classification System at Carolina Beach                             .................................................. 9-1
                                            9.3          The Land Classification Map                 ................................................................................... 9-1
                                            9.4          Land Classification Areas               ....................................................................................... 9-2
                                            Developed Areas
                                            9.4.1        St. Joseph/Spencer Farlow               ....................................................................................... 9-2
                                            9.4.2        The Post Office Area             ............................................................................................... 9-2
                                            9.4.3        US 421 Commercial             .................................................................................................. 9-3
                                            9.4.4        Mixed Use Area Near the Central Business District                            .................................................. 9-4
                                            9.4.5        Main Residential Area               ............................................................................................ 9-5
                                            9.4.6        The North End           ........................................................................................................ 9-6
                                            9.4.7        North Beach          ........................................................................................................... 9-6
                                            9.4.8        The Marina Area            ..................................................................................................... 9-8
                                            9.4.9        The Boardwalk Area and Central Business District                             .................................................. 9-8
                                            9.4.10       The South End          ....................................................................................................... 9-10
                                            9.4.10       WihTdngton/ Hanby Beach                   .................................................................................... 9-11
                                            Conservation Areas              ........................................................................................................... 9-11


                                 10.        INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION and IMPLEMENTATION                                                              ............................ 10-1
                                            10.1         Uses of the Land Use Plan               ...................................................................................... 10-1
                                            10.2         Coordination with Other Governmental jurisdictions                               ............................................. 10-1


                                 11.        PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN AND PROCESS                                         ............................................................. 11-1
                                            11.1         Public Participation Plan               ...................................................................................... 11-1
                                            11.2         Public Involvement Process              .....................................................................................  11-1
                                            11.3         Summary of Meetings Held During Planning Process                             ................................................  11-4

                                 12.        APPENDICES              ................................................................................................................... 12-1
                                            12.1         Evaluation of Effectiveness of Previous Land Use Plan                             ............................................ 12-1
                                            12.2         Sources and Locations of More Detailed Information                           . ..............................................  12-2
                                            12.3         Action Agenda For the Carolina Beach Land use Plan                               ............................................. 12-2

























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                                                         Exectitive Stimmary

                 1. Executive Summary

                         This executive summary consists of three parts:

                         1.1 Summary of Local Land Use Issues
                         A summary of some of the salient issues being faced by the Town at the present time and
                         anticipated to be an on-going concern over the coming months or years.

                         1.2 Policy Statements
                         The Town's officially adopted positions and statements of principle concerning growth and
                         development issues at Carolina Beach.

                         1.3 The Land Classification System
                         A method for translating the Town's growth and development policies to specific parts of the
                         community, recognizing that not all parts of the Town are alike.

                         Each element of the Executive Summary will now be presented in turn.

                 Section 1.1 Summary of Local            Land Use Issues

                 As Carolina Beach approaches the year 2000, the town is entering a significant new redevelopment
                 phase which promises to be no less significant, in terms of its potential impact, than the initial
                 development of the community. Many sites, previously developed at a much lower intensity of use, are
                 now being redeveloped for intensive commercial and multi-family residential uses. And, as one of the
                 older beach communities in North Carolina, he Town's infrastructure-particularly regarding water
                 and sewer systems-is beginning to show its age. This Land Use Plan addresses several emerging
                 development trends at Carolina Beach. Among the most critical issues facing the community today are:
                         Z
                          Intensification of Exclusive Waterfront Development.
                             h the advent of 1-40 from the Piedmont to Wilmington and the continued emergence of the
                         town of Carolina Beach as a bedroom community for the greater Wilmington urbanizing area,
                         there is an ever-increasing demand for intensive residential development on the water.
                         Developers push for "exclusive" developments, those which provide an image of greater
                         security to potential buyers, but which also, unfortunately, have the effect of walling the
                         public off from the water. In addition, recent proposals for such developments have included a
                         variety of other impacts which must be addressed. These impacts include:
                             9 Increased traffic volumes through existing single family residential neighborhoods to
                             reach waterfront properties,
                             0the displacement of former "semi-public" commercial marinas with "private" marinas
                             associated with particular residential developments.
                             9 Parking demands for both the residential units developed as well as for the marina boat
                             slips provided.
                             9 Stormwater runoff from intensive development immediately adjacent to sensitive
                             estuarine areas.


                          Ongoing Efforts to Upgrade the Image and Economics of the Boardwalk
                         Town residents and Town officials alike have expressed a strong interest in redirecting the
                         image and economics of the boardwalk away from an area perceived by many as a collection of
                         bars and toward a more family-oriented atmosphere. Plans for the revitalization of the
                         boardwalk area have been prepared and implemented, in part. It will take a concerted effort on
                         the part of the Town, boardwalk area property owners, and boardwalk businesses to move the



                                                               Page 1-1






                                                           Executive Summary


                          boardwalk area decisively in a direction which both maximizes its economic potential and
                          brings its image in alignment with the objectives of the community at large.

                           Continued Increases In Traffic Congestion.
                          As the popularity of the town of Carolina Beach continues to grow and development densities
                          gradually increase, traffic volumes will escalate at an even faster rate. This will be especially
                          true for certain critical streets such as Lake Park Boulevard through the central business
                          district, and Carl Winner Drive at the marina/boat basin. Further compounding the traffic
                          congestion in this part of town will be increasing demand for residents and visitors wishing to
                          get to the north beach via Canal Drive.
                          ;
                           A Critical Need To Upgrade and Repair Vital Water and Sewer Systems.
                           roblems with the Town's water supply and distribution system and sewage collection and
                          treatment system have been known since at least 1990, when annexation feasibility reports were
                          prepared on behalf of the Town. In the ensuing years, however, the reality of these various
                          problems have come to the forefront with a critical need to repair or replace crumbling sewer
                          lines, to find additional sources of potable water, and to increase the sewage treatment
                          capacity of the Town's waste water treatment plant. To its credit, the Town has heightened its
                          efforts to address these problems: now, an organized, long term approach to the water and sewer
                          issue is urgently needed, including a repair, replacement and maintenance program, and the
                          establishment of capital reserve accounts through a capital improvement plan. This must
                          continue to be a top priority of the Town for the next several years.

                           Concern About Storm Water Runoff and Drainage.
                          Despite ongoing efforts by the Town to tighten up stormwater management standards during its
                          review of development proposals, the problem of inadequate drainage continues to vex the
                          corrununity. Many areas of the town are low lying and become quickly flooded by regular storm
                          events-typical of the subtropical climate of the Cape Fear region. While drainage problems
                          are not unique to the town of Carolina Beach, they are certainly a major problem for many
                          residents of the community.

                  These emerging trends are not intended, by any means, to represent the full range of issues confronting
                  the Town of Carolina Beach. They are indicative, however, of a community undergoing tremendous
                  growth and development pressures while relying upon an outdated and outgrown system of
                  infrastructure. A successful future for the Town of Carolina Beach will be dependent in no small way on
                  the degree to which the Town can effectively manage growth in concert with critical infrastructure
                  improvements. The policies which follow are intended to help guide the decisions necessary to make
                  the effort work.

                  1.2 Policy Statements

                  OVERALL COMMUNITY VISION


                  8.0 General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years
                  We, the residents, business, and property owners of the Town of Carolina Beach, shall seek to preserve
                  and enhance our community as both an appealing destination resort and year round place in which to
                  live. We will continually strive to protect and nurture the natural and man-made features of our
                  community which make it so unique. These features include our boardwalk/amusement area, marina
                  and boat basin, Carolina Beach Lake, Carolina Beach State Park, and our stable, permanent single
                  farridly residential neighborhoods. As the inherent value of our community continues to increase over
                  the coming years, and the forces of investment and change influence that growth, the Town's mission
                  shall be to positively direct growth such that the quality of each of these features is continually
                  enhanced within the context of a small, family oriented beach resort town.


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                                                          Exectitive Stimmary



                 RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICIES


                 8.1.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Protection
                 The natural and scenic resources of Carolina Beach enable business owners to earn a livelihood,
                 residents to have an outstanding quality of life, and property owners to realize continued appreciation
                 of real estate values. The Town of Carolina Beach, through its policies and actions, shall not support or
                 approve any action, in singular or cumulative effect, which would jeopardize the long term viability of
                 our natural and scenic resources, or the small town character of our community.

                 8.1.1 Constraints Caused By Soil Limitations and Flood Prone Areas
                 Development will be discouraged from locations where stormwater runoff related flooding exists, unless
                 appropriate corrective improvements are to be completed as part of the project. Appropriate corrective
                 improvements. shall be defined as those which resolve the drainage problem without increasing
                 stormwater runoff on adjacent properties or in area waters, whether directly or indirectly. Similarly,
                 new development which would be susceptible to sound flooding shall also be discouraged unless
                 mitigative actions are taken.

                 8.1.2 Areas Of Environmental Concern
                 The Town will support and enforce, through its CAMA permitting capacity, the State policies and
                 permitted uses in the Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's). Such uses shall be in accord with the
                 general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, public trust areas and ocean hazard areas
                 as stated in 15A NCAC Subchapter 7H.

                 8.1.2 A Coastal Wetlands
                 Due to the critical role that wetlands play in protecting the quality of estuarine waters and in
                 providing habitat for fish and wildlife, the Town strongly supports the proper designation and
                 preservation of all remaining coastal wetlands. Acceptable land uses may include utility easements,
                 fishing piers, and docks. Unacceptable uses may include, but would not be limited to, restaurants,
                 businesses, residences, apartments, motels, hotels, parking lots, private roads, and highways.

                 8.1.2 B Estuarine Waters
                 (1) Appropriate uses may include simple access channels, structures which prevent erosion,
                 navigational channels, private boat docks, marinas, piers, and mooring pilings.
                 (2) Any development or activity which will profoundly and adversely affect coastal and estuarine
                 waters will be discouraged. In the design, construction and operation of water dependent structures,
                 efforts must be made to mitigate negative effects on water quality and fish habitat, as determined by
                 NCAC 15A Subchapter 7H and the Coastal Resources Commission. The developer and/or owner will
                 bear the cost of any required mitigation.

                 8.1.2 C Public Trust Areas
                 (1) Any use which significantly interferes with the public right of navigation or other public trust
                 rights shall be discouraged. Projects which would directly or indirectly block or impair existing
                 navigational channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide, cause adverse
                 water circulation patterns, violate water quality standards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters
                 shall be discouraged.
                 (2) The Town shall seek to ensure the responsible use of jet skis and other similar "personal" water craft
                 within the public trust waters of Carolina Beach. Responsible use shall mean controlled, predictable
                 movements similar to other powered water craft while in navigation channels, marinas, and other
                 regularly trafficked areas, and the avoidance of marshes and other shallow water estuaries, where
                 damage to the resource is likely.
                 (3) The length of docks and piers, as they project into public trust waters, shall be controlled jointly by
                 CAMA standards and the Town's official pierhead line. Whenever a discrepancy exists between the
                 two sets of standards, the more restrictive shall apply.


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                                                             Executive Sumn7ary


                  (4) The Town shall allow for the construction of docks and the development of boat slips in reasonable
                  proportion to the amount of land area and shoreline associated with the docks and slips. Factors
                  considered shall include the total number of boat slips relative to the total acreage and total number of
                  housing units on shore, if any, and the number of parking spaces necessary to serve the dock or marina.
                  Standards which serve to reasonably restrict the over-development of marinas in limited public trust
                  waters shall be supported.
                  (5) To manage existing and potential conflicts between activities competing for use of public trust
                  waters, the Town shall support the preparation and periodic updating of a water use and harbor
                  management plan for coastal waters at Carolina Beach.

                  8.1.2 D Estuarine Shorelines
                  Unlike the other components of the estuarine system of AEC's, land uses along estuarine shorelines may
                  include some uses that are not strictly water dependent (e.g. residential and hotels). However, non-
                  water related commercial uses (commercial enterprises that have no real economic relationship to the
                  water) shall be strongly discouraged. Regardless of the use proposed, all standards of NCAC 15
                  Subchapter 7H relevant to estuarine shoreline AEC's must be met, and the proposed use must be
                  consistent with other policies set forth in this Plan.

                  8.1.2 E Ocean Hazard Areas..,'
                  The Tow'n supports state policies for ocean hazard areas in Chapter 15A, Subchapter 7H of the state
                  CAMA regulations. Suitable land uses in ocean hazard areas include ocean shoreline renourishment,
                  temporary erosion control activities, and dune establishment/ stabilization. Residential, commercial,
                  and recreational land uses and parking lots for beach access are also acceptable types of use in ocean
                  hazard areas provided that they meet all general and specific use standards of NCAC 15A: 7H.

                  8.1.4 A Freshwater Wetlands
                  The Town shall avoid undertaking any activity or approving of any activity which would result in the
                  destruction or removal of remaining "404" wetlands within the Town's jurisdiction, whether fresh or
                  saltwater.


                  8.1.4 B Maritime Forests, Tree Cover and Landscaping
                  Tree cover at Carolina Beach, whether maritime or otherwise, is a highly valued asset. The Town
                  encourages efforts to preserve existing tree cover in new development and redevelopment. The Town also
                  encourages the generous use of indigenous landscape materials in new and existing developments to
                  improve appearances, absorb stormwater runoff, and reduce ambient air temperatures.

                  8.1.4 C Outstanding Resource Waters
                  Although Carolina Beach does not contain ORW waters, the Town supports the designation and
                  preservation of Outstanding Resource Waters. State efforts to protect water quality and thereby the
                  fishing industry of North Carolina, are supported.

                  8.1.4 D Shellfishing Waters
                  The Town supports and encourages the activities of the State's Shellfish Management Program. The
                  Town promotes estuarine water quality through its storm drainage planning and stormwater runoff
                  policies.

                  8.1.4 E Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values
                  The Town shall protect the long term viability of the Castle Hayne aquifer by properly managing the
                  municipal well system, including proper well head spacing, proper pumping and draw down, adequate
                  storage, and other related factors. In recent years, the aquifer's recharge potential at Carolina Beach
                  has been severely stressed due to heavy pumping. Therefore, the Town shall make additional storage
                  and the exploration of alternative sources of water among its highest objectives for the next five years.



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                  8.1.4 F Cultural and Historic Resources
                  The Town encourages the preservation of its older, potentially historic structures and sites, including
                  recent efforts by the Federal Point Historic Preservation Society to inventory important historic
                  resources within the entire area of the County south of Snow's Cut.


                  8.1.4 G Man-Made Hazards
                  None, but see policy on Sunny Point Buffer Zone

                  8.1.4 H Myrtle Grove Sound and Cape Fear River
                  To protect water quality in Myrtle Grove Sound, Snows Cut, and the Cape Fear River, the Town supports
                  reduction in the amount of runoff from proposed developments, preservation of existing wetlands and
                  associated vegetation, controls over the number and size of new marinas, reduction of dredging
                  activities to the minimum extent necessary to allow safe vessel movements, and maintenance of the
                  tidal flushing action.

                  8.1.4 1 North End Natural Area
                  The Town of Carolina Beach supports retaining the coastal wetland and ocean dune area at the north
                  end of Carolina Beach in its natural state. Vehicular traffic shall be restricted to the ocean side of the
                  dune line as a means of protecting the ecological function of this important resource area.

                  8.1.4 J Carolina Beach Lake
                  The Town supports leaving wetland areas associated with Carolina Beach Lake undeveloped, since
                  these areas play a critical role in reducing the amount of floodwaters which threaten already
                  developed properties. The Town supports those development proposals in the vicinity of the lake
                  which reduce the amount of impervious surface or which otherwise reduce the drainage load placed on
                  the Lake, and which provide improved visual access to the Lake. Also, the Town supports measures
                  which limit the flow of pollutants into the Lake. The Town supports the activities of the Coastal Land
                  Trust to accept tax deductible donations of property adjacent to the lake for permanently dedicated
                  public open space.

                  8.1.4 K Sunny Point Buffer Zone/
                  The Buffer Zone is owned and controlled by the U.S. Department of the Army to serve as a natural blast
                  shield for private properties in the event of an accident involving munitions at the Sunny Point
                  Military Ocean Terminal. Because of the importance of this area for wildlife habitat and as permanent
                  open space, the Town supports maintenance of this area in its natural condition with development
                  limited solely to additional recreational facilities. Area-wide prohibition of off-road vehicles and
                  stepped up enforcement against illegal dumping in this area shall be supported.

                  8.1.4 L Carolina Beach State Park
                  Carolina Beach State Park is owned and operated by the State of North Carolina as a means of
                  providing public access to a natural coastal environment and to the waters of the Cape Fear River.
                  Because of the importance of this area for wildlife habitat, nature study, and as permanent open space,
                  the Town supports maintenance of this area in its natural condition or with limited development for
                  recreational purposes.

                  8.1.4 M Snow's Cut (AIWW) Right of Way and Spoil Area
                  Snow's Cut, a component of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW), has its banks controlled by a
                  spoil deposition easement owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; this easement takes precedence
                  over any other possible use of this property. Because of the importance of this area for wildlife
                  habitat, permanent open space, and potential placement of spoil materials, the Town supports
                  maintenance of this area in its natural condition or with limited use for recreational purposes.




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                  8.1.5 Protection Of Potable Water Supply
                  The Town shall work with other appropriate governmental bodies, namely New Hanover County and
                  Wilmington, to provide for a continued pure supply of potable water, particularly from the Castle
                  Hayne aquifer. The Town shall also conserve it's groundwater resources for longevity through proper
                  management of its system of wells, and by the encouragement of water conservation practices, including
                  measures which can be taken in construction of new structures. These measures shall be designed to help
                  the Town of Carolina Beach get through the potential water crisis of the next five years.

                  8.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants
                  All new developments are required to connect to the Town's central sewer system. Package sewage
                  treatment plants and septic systems are not allowed within the corporate limits of Carolina Beach.

                  8.1.7 Storm Water Runoff
                  (1) Future developments must continue to meet all local, State and federal stormwater runoff regulations
                  as applicable to the individual development.
                  (2) The Town encourages the use of "best management practices" to minimize the release of pollutants to
                  coastal waters through stormwater runoff. Examples include using pervious or semi-pervious materials,
                  such as turfstone or gravel for driveways and walks, retaining natural vegetation along marsh and
                  waterfront areas to retain its natural filtering properties, and allowing stormwater to percolate into
                  the ground rather than discharging it directly to coastal waters.

                  8.1.8 A Marinas
                  To protect water quality, conserve limited public trust waters, keep boat traffic within the ability of
                  area waters to absorb it safely, and minimize land side traffic congestion and parking demands, the
                  number and size of new marinas at Carolina Beach shall henceforth be permitted only in accordance
                  with the reasonable carrying capacity of area waters and near shore lands. Carrying capacity shall be
                  determined by land side traffic volumes on area streets, the sufficiency of parking, and by competing
                  water use demands as identified in a Town "water use plan".

                  8.1.8 B Floating Home Development
                  Due the limited surface area of public trust waters for use and enjoyment by the public, floating homes
                  shall not be permitted within the jurisdictional waters of Carolina Beach.

                  8.1.8 C Moorings and Mooring Fields
                  Due the limited surface area of public trust waters for use and enjoyment by the public, freestanding
                  private moorings of any kind shall be discouraged within the public trust waters of Carolina Beach.
                  However, the Town shall support public mooring buoys designed to serve currently unmet needs of
                  transient boaters who could contribute substantially to the local economy.

                  8.1.8 D Dry Stack Storage
                  Due to their unsightliness and the traffic congestion associated with such facilities, dry stack facilities
                  shall be prohibited at Carolina Beach.

                  8.1.8 E Commercial Fishing Operations
                  Due to the important role of commercial and recreational fishing to the economy and ambient character
                  of Carolina Beach, the Town shall encourage and support commercial fishing operations and sports
                  fishing operations, provided that such operations meet all applicable development standards and are
                  otherwise consistent with the policies of this plan.

                  8.11.9 Industrial Impacts On Fragile Areas
                  New light industrial development, of a scale and nature suited to a small, fragile coastal community,
                  may be approved on appropriate sites, provided that impacts related to stormwater runoff, traffic
                  generation, and other factors can be properly mitigated.


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                                                          Executive Summary


                 8.1.10 Development Of Sound And Estuarine System Is   lands
                 Carolina Beach does not have any islands in its planning jurisdiction that would be feasible for future
                 development under current State and Federal permit regulations. The Town does support, however, all
                 County and State efforts to preserve Masonboro Island in its natural state.

                 8.1.11 Restriction Of Development Within Areas That Might Be Susceptible To Sea Level Rise
                 The Town shall monitor the work of State and Federal agencies conducting research on sea level rise
                 and its effect on coastal areas. The Town shall consider any State and Federal policies prior to
                 formulating specific local policies regarding sea level rise; specifically, development within areas up
                 to 5 feet above sea level.


                 8.1.12 Upland Excavation For Marina Basins
                 Due to the limited amount of developable land at Carolina Beach, the Town shall not support the
                 excavation of upland areas for marina basins.

                 8.1.13 Marsh Damage From Bulkhead Installation
                 Bulkheading and filling of the Town's shorefront forward of the mean high water mark along the
                 Town's estuarine shorelines shall be prohibited. Re-establishment of wetlands is to be strongly
                 encouraged. Any bulkheading operations must comply with all local, State and Federal regulations. No
                 private bulkheading of any kind shall be permitted around Carolina Beach Lake.

                 8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management Measures Designed to Address Them
                 The Town shall continue to seek improved marina management and stormwater runoff standards which
                 will protect and enhance the water quality of the estuarine system including, but not limited to the
                 waters of Myrtle Grove Sound, Snows Cut, and the Cape Fear River.

                 RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES

                 8.2.0   Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Production and Management
                 Carolina Beach is located in the midst of one of the most biologically productive ecosystems on earth-
                 estuarine waters and marshes. The Town shall take no action nor approve of any action which would
                 seriously harm the long term viability and productivity of this ecosystem.

                 8.2.1 Productive Agricultural Lands
                 Not applicable

                 8.2.2 Commercial Forest Lands
                 Not applicable, but see policy 8.1.4 B on Maritime Forests, Tree Cover and Landscaping, generally

                 8.2.3 Mineral Production Areas-Existing and Potential
                 Mineral production and extraction activities are not consistent with the limited, valuable land and
                 water resources'of Carolina Beach. Mineral production and extraction activities, excepting those
                 directly related to channel maintenance and beach renourishment, shall not be permitted within the
                 planning jurisdiction of Carolina Beach.

                 8.2.4 Fisheries Resources (Commercial and Recreational)
                 The Town will support State and federal regulations to insure the water quality of local waters that
                 support both commercial and recreational fishing.

                 8*2*5 Off Road Vehicles
                 Off-road vehicles (with the exception of emergency vehicles or other vehicles specifically permitted
                 by the Town) are not allowed on the Beach Strand within the corporate limits of Carolina Beach.



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                                                          Execittive Stimmary


                 8.2.6 Development Impacts
                 New development and redevelopment activities shall not be permitted which would act to degrade the
                 quality of natural and scenic resources at Carolina Beach, diminish the small town character of the
                 community, or create an adverse relationship between development types of incompatible scale, design,
                 or land use.


                 ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES


                 8.3.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic & Community Growth & Development
                 The Town of Carolina Beach shall work to diversify the local economy while at the same time
                 protecting the natural and man-made environment and improving the area as a more attractive
                 community in which to work, live and play. Economic and community development initiatives which
                 capitalize upon and enhance the pedestrian oriented, small town character exemplified by the Town
                 boardwalk and marina area, and by the relatively small scale of most residential and commercial
                 development in the Town shall be supported. Special emphasis shall be given to those types of
                 businesses which also foster a family-oriented community and resort market niche.

                 8.3.0 A Growth of Town's jurisdiction
                 The Town shall periodically evaluate the costs and benefits of annexing additional areas into the
                 Town. Before considering such annexations, first priority shall be given to addressing infrastructure and
                 service needs within the existing corporate limits, prior to taking on additional responsibilities.

                 8.3.0 B Building Height
                 The Town shall support and implement a maximum building height throughout the community of
                 thirty-five (35) feet, measured from the average ground plane of the lot to the top of the ceiling plate
                 of the highest habitable floor. Exceptions to this height shall require an additional one foot setback
                 for each additional one foot of height.

                 8.3.1 Types and Locations of Industries Desired & Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries
                 To diversify the economy of the Town, and to provide for desirable wages to community residents, the
                 Town shall be open to limited, appropriate, light industrial development in locations as allowed for
                 under the Town's Zoning Ordinance, and that will do no harm to the fragile coastal environment.

                 8.3.2 Provision of Services to Development
                 The Town will make all municipal facilities available to existing and future
                 development/ redevelopment, provided that such development is compatible with the growth and
                 development objectives embodied in this land use plan, and that all development pays for the growth
                 impacts it causes. Connection to water and sewer lines will be at the expense of the developer. If water
                 or sewer facility upgrades or expansions would be required for new development, the needed
                 improvements would be at the expense of the developer.

                 8.3.2 A Potable Water Supply
                 The Town requires all new development to tie into its system for potable water supply and prohibits
                 individual wells for potable use. The Town shall continue to take measures to ensure that the water
                 supply system is adequate to meet the needs of Town residents and businesses. Special emphasis shall
                 be given to this policy during the next two to five years, to avert a potential water crisis concerning the
                 capacity of the Town's well system to serve increased pumping demands.

                 8.3.2 B Wastewater Treatment and Disposal
                 All new developments are required to connect to the Town's central sewer system. Package sewage
                 treatment plants and septic systems are not allowed within'the corporate limits of Carolina Beach.
                 The Town shall continue to take measures (including on-going waste water treatment plant expansions)
                 to ensure that the waste water treatment system is adequate to meet the needs of Town residents and
                 businesses.


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                                                          Executive Summary




                 8.3.2 C Solid Waste Disposal
                 The Town supports measures to recycle and reduce the amount of solid waste generated by all permanent
                 residents and businesses, as well as visitors to the Beach.


                 11.33 Urban Growth Pattern Desired
                 The Town shall support a small town growth pattern which reinforces the community's existing
                 commercial areas and protects existing residential areas from inappropriately designed and scaled non-
                 residential development. The compact, pedestrian oriented nature of the Town's historic center-the
                 boardwalk/ amusement area and boat basin area-shall receive special diligence in this regard.

                 8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired
                 (1) The Town will encourage medium density (6,000 to 10,000 sq. ft. lots) single family homes as the
                 predominant housing form at Carolina Beach. Construction of additional small scale multi-family
                 projects shall be allowed to occur such that the current percentage of multifamily units relative to
                 single family units is held constant.

                 (2) The Town will discourage further high density and or "intense" development including large
                 multifamily complexes, condominiums, high-rise structures, large hotels/motels. Single family "mini-
                 castles" should be permitted in locations where their scale and mass is compatible with other structures
                 in their vicinity, or with the overall vision of a particular neighborhood.

                 8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Desired
                 (1) The Town will encourage new and expanding businesses that provide goods, services, and family
                 oriented entertainment to year round residents and visitors. Examples include appropriately scaled and
                 designed grocery stores, drug stores, restaurants, and amusements. Businesses locating in or near the
                 boardwalk and marina/boat basin area shall be pedestrian oriented, while those locating along US
                 421, away from the town center. may be more automobile oriented.

                 (2) Architectural design which is not in keeping with the character of a small, coastal community
                 atmosphere shall be discouraged.

                 (3) The Town shall continually seek to strengthen its signage controls so that as the community grows,
                 additional signage will not overwhelm the streetscape, thereby detracting from the image of the town
                 and devaluing its attractiveness as a place in which to live or vacation.

                 8.3.6 Redevelopment, including Relocation of Threatened Structures)
                 (1) Relocation of structures endangered or damaged by wave action and or shoreline erosion is
                 encouraged. Redevelopment of damaged or destroyed structures will be permitted by the Town according
                 to Town ordinances, provided all setback and other CAMA requirements are met.

                 (2) The Town shall encourage owners of run-down buildings to rehabilitate their structures. If the
                 structure is not historic in nature or part of an assembly or streetscape of interrelated buildings,
                 clearance of the structure at the owners cost may be required in accordance with the State minimum
                 housing code, public safety and related laws.

                 Also see Boardwalk for redevelopment initiatives related to that area.

                 8.3.7 Commitment to State and Federal Programs, Generally
                 While there are a number of State and Federal programs which the Town supports, those that are of
                 special interest to the Town of Carolina Beach include the State Coastal Area Management Act, the
                 State's beach access program, beach renourishment and channel maintenance programs, and bridge, road
                 and bikeway improvement programs.


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                                                           Executive Summary


                 8.3.8 A Assistance to Channel Maintenance, Including Interstate Waterways
                 (1) The Town supports State and Federal efforts to dredge areas along the Intracoastal Waterway and
                 other major bodies of water in the Carolina Beach area to provide safe access for commercial and
                 recreational boating. Spoil will be placed in approved spoil areas.

                 (2) Town officials will work with the Army Corps of Engineers, other State and federal agencies, and
                 with other local governments to ensure continued dredging and maintenance of channels and rivers as
                 needed to keep these facilities open to navigation. The provision of borrow or spoil areas and easements
                 for work will be determined on a case-by-case basis. However, the Town would prefer that known spoil
                 areas with existing easements for such purposes be used.

                 (3) Town officials will maintain contact with congressional representatives and federal officials as
                 dredging or other channel maintenance operations are needed, and will continue to assist local users of
                 these facilities as feasible.


                 8.3.8 B Beach Maintenance
                 (1) The Town supports all State, Federal, and inter-local efforts to determine, finance and implement
                 environmentally and aesthetically acceptable methods of beach renourishment consistent with locally
                 adopted policies. Innovative approaches to beach preservation and renourishment shall be supported,
                 including the testing of new prototypical research projects at Carolina Beach.

                 (2) The Town is committed  to maintaining its man-made beach, dune system and vegetation as close
                 environmental substitutes for the natural systems which protect undeveloped coastal areas. This
                 precludes encroachment of development upon these systems. The Town, therefore, supports non-
                 structural means of stabilizing the ocean shoreline except for temporary structures (i.e. sandbags)
                 erected to protect property from imminent danger of destruction due to erosion, as allowed by the CAMA,
                 program.

                 8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development
                 Due to the potential risk of oil spills, and related adverse impact on the Town's tourist-based economy,
                 the Town shall not support off-shore drilling for gas or oil and shall not permit facilities such as oil
                 refineries, storage facilities, or staging areas within the Town limits or Extraterritorial Planning
                 jurisdiction.


                 8.3.10 Tourism
                 The Town of Carolina Beach shall seek to provide residents with a high quality of life and visitors to
                 the area with a quality tourist experience, including especially, factors related to public safety,
                 community image and appearance, an atmosphere conducive to families, pedestrian and bicycle
                 oriented movement, convenient shopping and services, a quality beach strand, and fishable, swimmable
                 waters. Businesses oriented toward higher per capita expenditures by visitors to the Town shall be
                 especially encouraged.

                 8.3.11 Public Beach and Waterfront Access
                 (1) The Town shall secure financial assistance through the CAMA access program and any other
                 programs to create, expand and improve public access to the beach front and estuarine waters of
                 Carolina Beach.

                 (2) The Town shall avoid development of the soundside shoreline for exclusive residential
                 development, thereby effectively walling off other Town residents and visitors from the public trust
                 waters of the sound and intracoastal waterway. Public access, water oriented businesses, and mixed use
                 developments with ground floor commercial shall be preferred along the soundside shoreline.




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                                                            Executive Summary



                 8.3.12 Parks and Recreation
                 As the community of Carolina Beach grows and annexes, the Town shall support a commensurate
                 increase in the development, maintenance and enhancement of its parks, open space and recreational
                 facilities, including sound and ocean access facilities. The Town shall employ national and State
                 recreation standards as the minimum for such facilities-for the benefit of both residents and visitors
                 alike. The Town shall explore alternative means of funding for parks facilities, including State and
                 Federal grants, development impact fees, general obligation bonds, and other sources of revenue.

                 8.3.13 Boardwalk Area
                 Carolina Beach shall continue to work with merchants and property owners on efforts to revitalize the
                 Central Business and Amusement District/ Boardwalk area. Town officials will also seek grants and/or
                 low-interest State or federal loans to revitalize the area. Any such revitalization efforts shall be in
                 keeping with the historic small scale, pedestrian oriented character of the area.

                 8.3.14 Marina/Boat Basin
                 The Town shall continue to provide financial support and managerial guidance to the Carolina Beach
                 Boat Basin and Marina, including periodic major capital improvement projects as may be authorized
                 and budgeted by the Town. Day to day management of the marina shall. be handled by a semi-
                 autonomous Town Council-appointed Marina Authority. Alternatively, the Town may elect to lease the
                 boat basin out to a private management company, but with the Town maintaining ownership of all
                 facilities. Under either management option, the marina's normal operation and maintenance shall be
                 self sustaining through revenues received. Future improvements to the marina area shall be in keeping
                 with the pedestrian-oriented character of the central part of Town.

                 8.3.15 State Port Facilities
                 Due to the regional economic benefits of the State Port at Wilmington, the Town supports their
                 continued expansion.

                 8.3.16 A Highway Improvements
                 The Town supports continued highway improvements providing improved access to Carolina Beach as
                 identified in the State Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The Town shall not support changes
                 in the design of Lake Park Boulevard which would increase the volume or speed of traffic flow through
                 the center of Town at the expense of east-west pedestrian and bicycle movement across the roadway.
                 Rather, the Town supports the use of Dow Road for through traffic.

                 8.3.16 B Street System Planning
                 The Town shall periodically prepare, update and approve a Comprehensive Street System and Traffic
                 Management Plan, consistent with the overall Thoroughfare Plan as approved by NC DOT. The plan
                 shall. encompass automobile, bicycle and pedestrian traffic movement, as well, as on-street and off-
                 street parking needs. The plan shall be employed in carrying out a planned program of street, bikeway,
                 sidewalk, signage and signalization improvements, as well as in evaluating various public and private
                 sector actions and development proposals as related to transportation issues. Preparation and
                 implementation of the plan shaU occur in concert with the residents, business, and property owners of
                 the neighborhoods and streets involved.

                 83.16 C Bikeways;
                 The Town supports the use of bicycles as a functional way of reducing automobile traffic and parking
                 demand at the beach, as well as providing a convenient means to get around in many parts of Carolina
                 Beach. The Town shall. undertake a continuing program of.bicycle friendly improvements to town streets
                 in keeping with the Town's Bikeway Plan and periodically updated Street System and Traffic
                 Management Plan.




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                                                            Executive Summary


                 8.3.16 D Parking
                 (1) In the absence of parking under elevated structures, the Town recognizes that on-street parking is one
                 of the most efficient forms of parking available at Carolina Beach. The Town shall avoid actions
                 which would eliminate on-street parking

                 (2) Large off-street parking areas or structures are viewed as an inefficient use of limited land resources
                 in a beach community. Where such uses are created, however, they shall be in keeping with the
                 character, scale and design of their location within the Town.

                 (3) The Town shall seek to more carefully tailor fee parking spaces to match actual demand by time of
                 year, day of week and time of day.

                 83*16 E Dow Road Intersection
                 Efforts by the Department of Transportation, acting in cooperation with the Town of Carolina Beach to
                 correct operational deficiencies at the Dow Road/North Lake Park Boulevard intersection, shall be
                 supported.

                 8.3.17 A Scenic Vistas and Views
                 Natural views and vistas provided by street corridors and street ends, open spaces, and other
                 opportunities within the Town shall be preserved and protected to the maximum extent possible. This
                 may require forethought in the design of new development or redevelopment which would otherwise
                 act to close off such views and vistas.


                 8.3.17 B Neighborhood Character and Preservation
                 The Town encourages the improvement, preservation and enhancement of the Town's areas of unique
                 character and neighborhoods. To accomplish this, the Town shall initiate an on-going neighborhood
                 planning program, to be addressed on a rotating basis among the various neighborhoods as staff
                 resources allow.


                 8.3.17 C Historic Preservation
                 The Town encourages the preservation of its older, potentially historic structures and sites, including
                 recent efforts by the Federal Point Historic Preservation Society to inventory important historic
                 resources within the entire area of the County south of Snow's Cut.

                 CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES


                 8.4.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Continuing Public Participation
                 Carolina Beach believes that on-going, effective public involvement, combined with a coherent factual
                 analysis of any public issue, is the key to creating and maintaining a direction for the community upon
                 which all may agree.

                 8.4.1 Land Use Plan Update Process
                 Public involvement will be encouraged among all permanent residents, seasonal visitors, and property
                 owners during each Land Use Plan Update.

                 8.4.2 On-going Public Participation
                 Public involvement in planning matters will continue beyond the plan update process through providing
                 public education and information, utilization of the news media and mailers, and public opportunities
                 for discussion and comment on land use issues. The Planning Board will advertise the public meetings
                 held to discuss land use and* associated matters.







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                                                              Executive Summary


                   8.4.3 Neighborhood Planning
                   To encourage a high level of involvement by citizens and property owners in planning decisions, the
                   Town shall institute an on-going neighborhood planning program, within which different parts of the
                   Town will be addressed on a rotating basis as staff resources allow.
                   "STORM HAZARD MITIGATION/POST-DISASTER RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION POLICIES'
                   (AND PLANS

                   8.5.0" S,torm Hazard Mitigation/Post-Disaster Recovery, & EvacuationPolicies and Plans
                   The Town shall continually seek to establish procedures and take actions to reduce the potential for the
                   loss of life and property damage prior to a storm event, and to provide a framework for orderly
                   reconstruction in the aftermath of a hurricane or other significant damaging event.

                   Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies

                   8.5.1 A Storm Effect Mitigation
                   (1) Hig Winds: The Town supports enforcement of the NC State Building Code. The Town will continue
                   to enforce the State Building Code an wind resistant construction with design standards of from 120 to
                   150 mph wind loads.

                   (2) Storm SuWe,:-The Town supports and is a participant with the State in administering the
                   development standards of the CAMA Ocean Hazard Area of Environmental Concern (AEC). These
                   standards help ensure that structures particularly susceptible to storm surge (e.g. first row) are set back
                   from the ocean a distance based on the average annual erosion rate at that location.

                   (3) Flooding: The Town is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance Program and is
                   supportive of its hazard mitigation elements. The Town shall continue to seek improvements in
                   development standards which would result in lower insurance premiums for Town property owners. The
                   Town also supports proper enforcement of State and Federal wetlands development permit processes in
                   areas potentially susceptible to flooding.

                   (4) Wave Action and Shoreline Erosion: The Town is supportive of the CAMA development permit
                   process for estuarine shoreline areas and the requisite development standards which encourage both
                   shoreline stabilization and facilitation of proper drainage.

                   8.5.1 B, Discouragement of Hazardous Development
                   (1) In reviewing development proposals, the Town shall act in concert with CAMA standards which
                   discourage or prohibit development in hazardous locations.

                   (2) The Town shall conduct a public education and information sharing program approximately once per
                   year with the goal of making the town more resistant to the forces of a storm. This will include a public
                   outreach program to educate the public as to storm resistant building design and construction standards,
                   as well as the Town's policies on evacuation, reentry, restoration of services and reconstruction.

                   (3) The Town will periodically conduct studies to analyze both the feasibility and benefits of revising
                   local development controls to lessen the effects of storm damage. Included shall be an examination of
                   the Town's floodplain management and building standards which could have the effect of reducing
                   flood insurance rates for Town property owners.

                   8.5.1 C Public Land Acquisition
                   (1) The Town supports advanced planning for property acquisition in areas of extreme and high
                   hazards, where such acquisition serves a,useful public purpose, such as for public access to the beach
                   where such access is needed. In evaluating potential property purchases, the Town shall take into


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                                                           Executive Summary


                 consideration rates of erosion or other factors which could have a bearing on the longevity and ultimate
                 usefulness of the property for public use.

                 (2) The Town shall investigate outside funding sources for land acquisition and shall encourage gifts and
                 donations for tax credits, as a mitigative measure for future storm events. To provide a proactive
                 approach, priority areas for acquisition shall be identified in advance of storm events.

                 8.5.1 D Evacuation
                 The Town, in cooperation with County and State officials, shall periodically evaluate the impact of
                 continued growth on existing transportation facilities with regard to evacuation routes and times.
                 Actions to meet needed transportation improvements shall be taken well in advance of need.

                 Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies


                 8.3.2 A Emergency Management Plan and Near Term Response
                 The Town shall prepare and annually update an Emergency Management and Operations Plan, in
                 concert with County and State emergency management officials, and with input from Town residents.
                 The plan shall encompass pre-storm and immediate post storm activities and policies of the Town,
                 including policies on evacuation and reentry. Distribution of a "Citizen's Guide" to important elements
                 of the plan shall occur on a year round basis at Town Hall, with heightened education about the
                 policies of the plan occurring at the beginning of each hurricane season.

                 8*5*2 B Local Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies
                 Redevelopment in the most hazardous areas will be discouraged. Structures and sites which were
                 destroyed by 50% or more of their value and which did not conform to the Town's building regulations,
                 zoning ordinances, and other storm hazard mitigation policies shall be redeveloped according to current
                 standards. In some instances, this may mean relocation of construction or no reconstruction at all.
                 Structures and sites suffering damages at less than 50% of their value shall be allowed to be restored to
                 their original condition prior to the storm.

                 The Town shall create and, have on hand a Municipal Facilities Master Plan for the reconstruction of
                 public buildings and facilities. The plan shall address functional as well as aesthetic considerations.

                 8.5.2 C Recovery Task Force
                 The Town shall have a predetermined Recovery Task Force to orchestrate the Town's recovery
                 activities following a major storm event. The composition and duties of the Task Force shall be
                 specified in the Town's Emergency Management and Operations Plan.

                 8.5.2 D Staging Schedule For Reconstruction and Repair
                 (1) To deal with the large number of requests for permits after a major storm, the Town shall employ a
                 "building permit triage" for orderly issuance of building permits. Criteria for the order of issuance shall
                 be developed in advance, with the need for modification acknowledged based upon the specific
                 circumstances being faced.

                 (2) The Town shall also develop a planned sequence for the restoration of public utilities and services,
                 with allowance for adjustment to deal with circumstances at hand.

                 8.5.2 E Public Infrastructure Repairs/ Replacement
                 The Town supports underground installation, replacement and storm proofing of public and private
                 utilities and infrastructure. The Town shall also encourage the use of appropriate wind resistant traffic
                 signals as may be available for new installation and replacement by NC DOT and private individuals.




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                                                           Executive Summary


                  1.3 The Land Classification System at Carolina Beach

                  *Purpose of Land Classification and the Land Classification Map

                  (a) Purpose

                  The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines require that local governments in the coastal area classify
                  various parts of their planning jurisdictions in accordance with the desired density and character'of
                  development for each area of their community. For example, the Developed class is intended for areas
                  that are already urban in nature. The Urban Transition class is intended for areas that are expected to
                  become urban within the next decade. The Rural class is intended for areas that are not expected to
                  become urban within the next decade-and so forth.


                  In the case of Carolina Beach, however, the incorporated area, (excluding marshes, the beach strand,
                  and public trust waters) is largely urban in nature. In other words, most of the area is either already
                  developed or platted for development, and is currently receiving the full range of urban services,
                  including particularly, centralized water and sewer. According to CAMA Guidelines, therefore, most of
                  the developable area of Carolina Beach qualifies for inclusion in the Developed class, with the
                  balance of the area-i.e. marshes, the beach strand and public trust waters-qualifying for the
                  Conservation class.


                  Designating nearly all of the land area of the Town into a single land class, however, defeats the
                  purpose of providing policy guidance to the Town for different parts of the community. For this reason,
                  this plan subdivides the Developed class into several sub-categories. These sub-categories correspond to
                  neighborhood planning areas within the Town with distinct development characteristics or common
                  attributes. Policy positions can then be included in each of these neighborhood sub-classifications to
                  help the Town maintain the distinguishable neighborhood qualities unique to each area.

                  (b) The Land Classification Map

                  The land classification map, provided at the back of this document, identifies several "neighborhood
                  planning areas" at Carolina Beach. Factors employed in determining the extent of each area varied
                  from area to area, but generally related to one or more of the following: (1) The era or period in which
                  the neighborhood was first developed. (2) The size of platted lots. (3) The height and character of
                  buildings. (4) The nature of streets and parking. (5) The type(s) of land uses prevalent in the area. (6)
                  The pedestrian or automobile oriented nature of the area. Ten of eleven neighborhood planning areas
                  fall into the broad classification of Developed under the State guidelines for planning in the coastal
                  area. The eleventh has been placed in the Urban Transition class. For a more complete description of
                  each neighborhood area, please see Section 9 Land Classification.

                  * Developed Neighborhood Areas

                  (1) The St. Joseph/Spencer-Farlow Area

                  The policy emphasis of this plan is to protect the viability of the existing residential neighborhoods in
                  this part of town, while allowing for reasonable development and redevelopment of other properties in
                  the area. A primary focus of the Town's growth management efforts will be on controlling the nature
                  and intensity of new multi-family/marina developments so that they are compatible with the existing
                  character and use of the area. Particular attention shall be paid to traffic generation, cut through
                  traffic, and parking demands related to new developments.    .Areas of freshwater wetlands shall also be
                  conserved for the valuable functions they serve in filtering urban runoff and reducing flooding problems.



                                                                 Page 1-15






                                                            Executive Summary



                 (2) The Post Office Area

                 The policy emphasis of this plan will be on working proactively with area property owners to address
                 land development and gateway appearance issues. For its part, the Town has installed a number of
                 streets.cape improvements along this portion of US 421, including landscaping and decorative street
                 lighting. Future developments will be reviewed particularly for roadway appearance, attractive
                 signage, and landscaping. The Town will also work cooperatively with the State Department of
                 Transportation on traffic management issues and the ultimate reconfiguration of the Dow Road
                 intersection.


                 (3) The US 421 Commercial Area

                 The policy emphasis of this plan will be on working to mitigate the adverse visual affects of the strip
                 development concentrated in this area. This may include improvements in area signage and
                 landscaping, the addition of'sidewalks to encourage pedestrian movement, and a close monitoring of
                 additional driveway cuts onto US 421. These improvements might be carried out through an entryway
                 corridor plan, prepared in cooperation with area property owners, or through changes in the Town's sign
                 ordinance, landscaping standards, and zoning ordinance, plus a billboard abatement plan.

                 (4) The Mixed Use Area Near the Central Business District

                 The policy emphasis of this plan is on re taining the modest scale of most of the structures in the Mixed
                 Use Area, as well as its pedestrian oriented nature. Large scale commercial uses and parking lots,
                 which would detract from the pedestrian oriented, small village nature of the area, shall not be
                 permitted. While the current mixture of single family residential, multi-family residential, and
                 commercial uses is considered appropriate for this area, careful monitoring will be required to see that
                 pressures for multi-family and commercial development do not get out of balance with the livability of
                 the area. As an alternative to commercial and multi-family development, this area may be an
                 appropriate location for small scale office and institutional uses. This is especially true for that
                 portion of the area between Third and Fourth Streets which must serve as a true transition between the
                 more commercial area adjacent to Lake Park Boulevard and the more solidly residential area west of
                 Fourth Street.


                 (5) The Main Residential Area

                 The policy emphasis of this plan is to protect the viability of this area for single family residences
                 with an appropriate mix of community and institutional uses. Duplexes on small (5000 to 6000 square
                 foot) lots shall be discouraged in this area through appropriate zoning amendments. Opportunities for
                 greater pedestrian and bicycle movement from this area to services located in and around the Central
                 Business District should be encouraged. The Town can facilitate this objective by the addition of
                 sidewalks in the area as Town capital improvement budgets allow.

                 (6) The North End

                 The policy emphasis of d-ds plan is for the older section of the North End to continue as a single family
                 residential area. Incremental improvements and investments in single family homes in this area shall
                 be encouraged. Multi-family development, whether by new development or by increases in development
                 intensity or scale at existing locations, shall not be permitted. With the possible exception of the MB-1
                 commercial district at the marina, the Spinnaker Pointe area shall be allowed to continue to develop in
                 accordance with the plan as approved by the Town, and as permitted by the zoning ordinance.





                                                                  Page 1-16






                                                           Executive Summary



                 (7) North Beach

                 The policy emphasis of this plan is to allow for the continued use of each land parcel as currently built
                 upon or as approved for development. To keep traffic and parking problems from escalating further, no
                 additional multi-family development, (beyond that which has already been approved) is to be
                 permitted in the area, whether by new development or by increases in the development intensity or
                 scale of existing projects. Conversion of single family homes and duplexes to multi-fan-tily housing is to
                 be specifically discouraged. This may require rezoning of appropriate single fan-dly/duplex areas to
                 exclude multi-family development. It may also require re-examining the extent of the T-1 (Tourist-
                 oriented) zoning district to limit further increases in development intensity in this, the most congested
                 part of Carolina Beach. In the event of major storm damage to ocean front structures in this area, the
                 Town would prefer to see a higher quality of development with no increases in density and
                 improvements in off-street parking for each residential unit.

                 (8) The Marina Area

                 The policy emphasis of this plan is on establishing a long-term vision and management plan for Myrtle
                 Grove Sound. This plan would include recommendations for harbor management, maintenance dredging,
                 boating safety and patrolling, shoreside access, transient moorings and other issues as they arise. It is
                 recommended that this plan be developed under the auspices of a water use plan in accordance with the
                 guidelines of the Coastal Area Management Act program. Included in this plan would also be proposals
                 for improvements to sound side access ways at all public street ends.

                 (9) The Boardwalk Area and Central Business District


                 The policy emphasis of this plan is to achieve two objectives: (1) Reestablish the family-oriented
                 market niche of the Boardwalk Area, and (2) Create a common architectural theme and sense of unity
                 to the Boardwalk Area and surrounding business areas, including especially, the Marina.

                 The first objective is to firmly reestablish the boardwalk area as a family attraction. Currently,
                 instead of projecting a clear image to the family market, the Boardwalk Area presents a split image,
                 part adult and part family. By returning the Boardwalk Area to a family-oriented market niche, it is
                 hoped that the Boardwalk Area can regain its economic potential. One opportunity to do this is
                 through the future' sale and reuse of the old Town Hall complex and Police Station. This site should
                 undergo adaptive reuse or, if necessary, redeveloped with a use that supports the economic health of
                 the boardwalk area. (As discussed in the paragraph below, it should also be in keeping with the scale
                 and character of development in the area.)

                 The second objective is to create a common architectural theme and sense of unity between the
                 Boardwalk Area and surrounding business areas, including the Marina. Implementation of the
                 architectural theme Will require cooperation form area property owners and businesses. For its part, the
                 Town will continue to install streetscape enhancements within the Boardwalk Area itself, and between
                 the Boardwalk Area and surrounding areas. In particular, the area between the end of Woody Hewett
                 and the beginning of Canal Drive needs to have a sense of connectedness to the pedestrian. Assisting in
                 this continuous connection will be the addition of landscaping, street lighting and continuous sidewalk
                 improvements. Also helpful will be informational signage, including for example, kiosks with mounted
                 locator maps. At the same time, the Town may want to revisit the potential closing of Cape Fear
                 boulevard east of Lake Park Boulevard during some parts of the tourist year.

                 Consistent with both of the above objectives, the Town will not support nor allow proposals which
                 would displace the historic, pedestrian-oriented heart of its community with large-scale enterprises
                 and automobile oriented establishments (whether commercial or residential). To do so, would destroy
                 that which is unique to Carolina Beach alone on the North Carolina coast.


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                                                            Executive Summary



                  (10) The South End

                  The policy emphasis of this plan i@ to allow for the retention and development of traditional single
                  family beach cottages at a scale compatible with the original homes, modest lot sizes and narrow street
                  rights- of-way in the area. The avoidance of single family "mini castles" packed onto small lots will
                  also help avoid fire safety problems related to fire spreading quickly from one large structure to the
                  next. Building heights of two to no more than three stores (total, from ground level) shall be considered
                  appropriate in this area. Multi-family development shall not be permitted in the northern part of the
                  South End. No additional high rise development, whether by new development or by increases in the
                  development intensity or scale at existing locations, shall be allowed. Development of commercially
                  zoned properties along Lake Park Boulevard should be oriented toward community and neighborhood
                  services. Consideration should be given to rezoning that portion of the area currently zoned T-1 to a
                  uniform RA-5A zoning designation. This may act to encourage healthy reinvestment in the area.

                  9 Urban T    ransition Neighborhood Areas

                  (11) Wilmington/Hanby Beach

                  The Town will continue to plan ahead for the future annexation of this area. In keeping with this
                  objective, the Town shall continue to annually set aside funds necessary to complete the installation of
                  municipal water, sewer and other services upon annexation of the area. Over   'the long term, the Town
                  may consider a rezoning of the area for an eventual transition from a predominance of manufactured
                  housing to a predominance of traditional single family (site built) development. This should be done in
                  a manner which does not penalize current property owners or residents, but rather allows for the
                  transition to occur as properties are sold and redeveloped over time. As the area develops, strong
                  measures should be taken to retain maritime forest and wetland areas.


                  * Conservation Areas

                  The policy emphasis of this plan for Conservation areas shall be to protect the natural integrity and functioning of
                  these areas@ as well as in providing open space and visual relief. Approved uses shall be in accordance with CAMA
                  General Use Standards, with priority given to direct and indirect public access having a minimal impact on the
                  natural functioning of these systems. The Town shall also maintain an on-going concern for the preservation of
                  views and vistas to these areas, by carefully controlling development along the water's edge which would serve to
                  block or wall off the public from these valuable scenic and recreational resources. (Also see specific policy
                  statements for specific areas within the Conservation Classification, e.g. 8.1.4 J Carolina Beach Lake,
                  8.1.4 K Sunny Point Buffer Zone, 8.1.4 L Carolina Beach State Park, 8.1.4 M Snow's Cut
                  (AIWW) Right of Way and Spoil Area etc.)


















                                                                  Page 1-18







                                                               Introduction


                  2. Introduction

                  2.1 Why Prepare a CAMA Land Use Plan?

                  The Town of Carolina Beach and the whole of Pleasure Island have undergone tremendous change,
                  particularly in the past two decades. Permanent and seasonal population levels have increased
                  significantly and new construction has occurred at a rapid pace. With the coming of Interstate 40 from
                  the piedmont of North Carolina several years ago, the attractiveness of Carolina Beach as a weekend
                  retreat and second home vacation resort has increased markedly. From a variety of standpoints,
                  Carolina Beach is reemerging as a tourism center on the North Carolina coast. At the same time, the
                  Town's convenient proximity to the Wilmington-New Hanover urban area has heightened interest in
                  the community as a year round residential locale.

                  As pressures for redevelopment have heightened, new problems must be faced, including: an
                  intensification of development on environmentally sensitive sites, stormwater management problems,
                  increased traffic congestion, increased parking demand for day visitors and residents alike, and a
                  pressing, critical need for improvements to the Town's water and sewer systems. These needs point up
                  the potential for degradation of the natural and built environment and quality of life that have
                  brought people to Carolina Beach for so long.

                  The intent of the Land Use Plan is to anticipate and deal with these development pressures in an
                  organized fashion. Such planning should work to protect and enhance the quality of life of area
                  residents and should also conserve and manage the natural resources with which the Town has been
                  blessed. At the same time, advanced planning and foresight can help minimize increases in the local
                  tax burden, through sound public and private investment decisions.

                  The North Carolina General Assembly recognized these issues when it passed the Coastal Area
                  Management Act of 1974, which requires local governments in the coastal area to develop land use plans
                  and update them regularly in accordance with the State Guidelines. The first Land Use Plan for
                  Carolina Beach was adopted in 1976, with updates following in approximate five year increments
                  through 1990. This plan updates the previous plan to address ever changing issues and development
                  trends affecting the Town.

                  2.2 Functions of the Land Use Plan

                  The Land Use Plan performs several important functions for local governing bodies and the general
                  public; these functions are briefly described below:

                   Source of Information - The plan's technic al studies provide information on a number of topics,
                  including the local economy, population, environmental features, land use trends and community
                  facility needs.

                    Guidancefor Government Decisions - Once the governing body adopts the plan, it then has a
                  foundation for guiding future decisions on budgets and ordinances, including public investments, zoning
                  and other development decisions.

                  9 Preview of Government Action - Decisions of the public in general, and developers in particular, are
                  easier to make when the probable outcome of governmental. decisions is understood; the adoption of a
                  land use plan increases the predictability of government actions.





                                                                 Page 2-1







                                                               Introduction



                   Public Participation in Managing Development - Public meetings and hearings held during the plan's
                 preparation help to insure that the plan reflects, to the extent possible, the specific nature of the
                 current development issues facing the town.

                 The next section of the plan seeks to address several of the above functions by stating an overaU
                 community vision for Carolina Beach, and a series of objectives to be implemented through the land use
                 plan.

















































                                                                 Page 2-2






                                             Community Vision And Objectives

               3. Community Vision And Objectives
               3.1 Community Vision

               The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines state that "land use planning offers the best chance for
               developing a common vision and goals for the future that balance economic development and resource
               protection necessary for a healthy coast." (NCAC Subchapter 7B Land Use Planning Guidelines, Section
                    Introduction to Land Use Planning, .0101 Purpose). For the Carolina Beach Land Use Plan, the
               following overall vision for the community has been established:


                                       General Vision Statement for Next Ten Years

                      We, the residents, business, and property owners of the Town of Carolina Beach, shall
                      seek to preserve and enhance our community as both an appealing destination resort and
                      year round place in which to live. We will continually strive to protect and nurture the
                      natural and man-made features of our community which make it so unique. These
                      features include our boardwalk/ amusement area, marina and boat basin, Carolina Beach
                      Lake, Carolina Beach State Park, and our stable, permanent single family residential
                      neighborhoods. As the inherent value of our community continues to increase over the
                      coming years, and the forces of investment and change influence that growth, the Town's
                      mission shall be to positively direct growth such that the quality of each of these features
                      is continually enhanced within the context of a small, family oriented beach resort town.



               3.2 Objectives

               In addition, for the land use plan to be effective, it must be driven by a clear set of overall objectives.
               These objectives help bring form to a distinct growth strategy that is consistent with the desires of the
               community.



                                              Land Use Planning Objectives

                      The Town's Land Use Plan and development regulations should:

                      0  Allow for new development and redevelopment consistent with the Town's long
                         range infrastructure and service capabilities-particularly water and sewer, traffic
                         and parking.

                      0  Support the preparation of a capital improvement plan giving special attention to
                         water and sewer system repair, replacement and upgrading.

                      0  Encourage transportation improvements which would redirect through traffic to
                         Dow Road, and encourage in-town alternatives to the automobile (i.e. trolleys,
                         bicycle paths or lanes, and sidewalks)

                                                      (continued)



                                                       Page 3-1






                                                   Community Vision And Objectives


                                                              (continued)

                         0  Allow for new development and redevelopment which recognizes legitimate
                            development interests while conserving the long range environmental quality of
                            surrounding land, water and marshes.

                         0  Allow for development types, uses, and services which conserve and foster a family
                            beach atmosphere.

                         0  Discourage development and redevelopment that would result in disproportionate
                            high density and "intense" development. Encourage a residential development mix
                            which maintains the current proportion of single family and multi-family housing
                            units.


                         0  Pursue the most effective, financially feasible, equitable, and environmentally
                            acceptable methods of beach and shoreline preservation.

                         -  Establish a plan and system of ordinances that, following a natural disaster, provides
                            the community with a rational method for re-entry and reconstruction consistent
                            with each of the above community growth objectives.

                         0  Welcome all visitors to the community, but provide special attention to the needs of
                            weekly visitors and other visitors which are consistent with a family oriented
                            atmosphere.

                         0  Structure development impact fees and encourage development forms which pay for
                            themselves over both the short and long term.

                         0  Preserve the scale, ambiance and pedestrian orientation of the Town's existing central
                            business district, boardwalk area and marina/boat basin.

                         a  Support efforts to preserve the historic and architectural character of many of the
                            remaining older residential structures in the community.

                         0  Seek to enhance and beautify the US 421 /Lake Park Boulevard main entryway
                            corridor into the community. Discourage typical strip commercial development.

                         0  Establish a management plan for the short and long term use and preservation of the
                            Town's public trust waters, particularly Myrtle Grove Sound.


                While the above objectives are not intended to be comprehensive, they do provide the foundation for
                many of the specific policies of the Town's Land Use Plan and ultimately, for guiding public expenditures
                and changes in the Town's development regulations.












                                                                Page 3-2





                                              Summary of Data Collection and Analysis
                4. Summary of Data Collection & Analysis

                4.1 Establishment of Information Base

                4.1.1 Components of the Analysis

                Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) guidelines for preparing land use plans in the coastal area of
                North Carolina require that an analysis of existing conditions and future trends be performed prior to
                policy development. The intent of this requirement is to ensure that the policies as developed respond
                as closely as possible to current problems and issues facing the community. Key components of the
                analysis may be described in four categories:

                        * present conditions-including population, economy, existing land use, and current plans and
                          regulations;
                        9 land suitability constraints-including physical limitations for development, fragile areas,
                          and areas with resource potential;
                        - community facility and service constraints-including water, sewer, transportation, police,
                          fire, schools, parks and recreation, and solid waste; and
                        e estimated demand-including population and economic projections, future land use needs, and
                          community facility demands.

                4.1.2 Subject Areas Examined

                A number of basic studies are required so that a solid information base can be established for sound
                policy decisions. These basic studies include the following subjects:

                        a Population and Economy
                        * Impact of Seasonal Population
                        * Existing Land Use Analysis
                        e Current Plans, Policies and Regulations
                        - Evaluation of Previous Land Use Plan Effectiveness
                        * Physical Limitations for Development
                        a Fragile Areas
                        * Areas with Resource Potential
                        * Water Supply
                        * Sewage Treatment and Storm Water Runoff
                        a Transportation Facilities
                        * Police
                        * Fire and Rescue
                        * Schools
                        * Parks and Recreation
                          Solid Waste
                          Population and Economic Projections
                          Future Land Use Needs
                          Community Facility Demands

                The technical reports listed above were geared to gathering and summarizing information related to
                the development of the Town. Collectively, these studies summarize past and present conditions, while
                providing the basis for estimating future conditions.. Building upon this information, a number of
                policies were prepared by the Town Planning Board for consideration by the Town Council.




                                                                Page 4-1






                                               Summary of Data Collection and Analysis



                 4.2 Some Findings from the Technical Studies

                 Population Growth Trends
                 After many decades of modest population increases, population growth at Carolina Beach accelerated
                 dramatically during the 1980's and 1990's. The Town appears to be riding the wave of interest and the
                 unprecedented building and development boom in New Hanover County.

                 RousingTypes
                 About 45% of all housing units at Carolina Beach are either a single family residence or a duplex.
                 About 53% of all housing units are multi-family units, while the remaining 2% are in mobile homes or
                 other residential units.


                 Economic Profile of Residents
                 An examination of employment patterns and occupations of residents at Carolina Beach reveals that
                 there are no remarkable differences between Town residents and County residents. This lends support to
                 the notion that Carolina Beach is, in some respects, a bedroom community for employers in New
                 Hanover County and the City of Wilmington. Household incomes of Town residents are also on a par
                 with residents of the County as a whole.

                 Water Supply
                 The Carolina Beach water system consists of 10 wells which can pump water at an average rate of 100
                 gallons per minute. During peak summer population, pumps are operating at capacity for up to 20 hours
                 per day, far exceeding the recommended 12. The maximum capacity of the total system is about 1.6
                 MGD. While the Town recognizes a pressing need to increase the water supply, the ability to drill
                 additional wells is limited, in areas available to do so, without the additional wells adversely
                 influencing existing wells. Alternative sources of water must therefore be sought in the very near future.

                 Waste Water Disposal
                 Peak summer season usage wastewater flow rates have approached, and occasionally exceeded, the
                 average daily permitted flow rate for the Town's wastewater treatment plant. In response to concerns
                 from the NC DEHNR, the Town hired an engineering firm to design an expansion of the wastewater
                 treatment plant from 1.85 MGD to 3.10 MGD. The start of construction was delayed by hurricane Fran.
                 Construction was initiated in November 1996 with completion anticipated within nine to twelve
                 months. Even with this treatment plant expansion, Town officials recognize that an additional plant
                 expansion (i.e. from 3.0 to 4.0 MGD) may have to follow closely on the heels of this expansion, due to
                 continued growth and planned annexation initiatives.

                 Fragile and Natural Areas
                 For a community of its size, Carolina Beach has an abundance of fragile and natural areas providing
                 habitat to a wide range of coastal flora and fauna. Areas providing important habitat include the
                 Sunny Point Military Terminal Buffer Area, Carolina Beach State Park, Carolina Town Lake, and the
                 natural area at the north end of Carolina Beach.


                 4.3 For Further Information

                 The hill studies from which the above findings were drawn are contained in Section 5, Present
                 Conditions and Section 6, Constraints. To find out more about various aspects of land use and
                 development trends at Carolina Beach, the interested citizen is also invited to visit the Town offices
                 where a variety of studies, plans, maps, aerial photographs and booklets are maintained on file.





                                                                 Page 4-2






                                                                      Presmt Conditions


                    5. Present Conditions

                    This section presents a variety of information about current human, economic and physical conditions at
                    Carolina Beach. Also included is a summary of local plans, policies, and regulations pertinent to the
                    formulation of the land use plan.
                    5.1 Present Population and Economy

                    5.1.1 Population and Housing

                    (a) Population Growth, 1930 to 1994

                    Year                     Carolina           % of County       New Hanover
                                             Beach              Population       -County
                   .1130                                    95                < 1           43,010
                    1940                                  637                 1.3           47,935
                    1950                                1,080                 1.7           63,2722
                    1960                                1,192,                1.7           71,742,
                    1970                                1,6631                2.0           82,996
                    1980                                20001                 2.0           102,779
                                                        3,6301                3.01          120,284
                    1995 (Estimate)        1            4,6251                3.31          139,577
                    1990



                    Absolute Increase


                    Decade                   Carolina           % of County       New Hanover
                                             Beach              Growth            County
                    1930-40                               542                 11.0            4,925
                    1940-50                               443                 2.9           15,337
                    1950-60                               112                 1.3             8,470
                    1960-70                               471                 4.2           11,254
                    1970-80                               337                 1.7           19,783
                    1980-90                             1,630                 9.3           17,505
                    1990-95                               995                 5.2           19,293
                    Source. Census of Population and Housing, 1930 through 1990 and North Carolina Office of Budget and A4anagement

                    The Population Growth table above reflects the growth in the permanent population of Carolina Beach
                    from 1930 to 1990 based on census information, with a 1995 population estimate provided by the State
                    Office of Management and Budget. The table indicates a relatively modest growth rate for the town for
                    the period from 1930 to 1980. Beginning in the 1980's, however, and continuing into the 1990's; the growth
                    rate of the community has accelerated to a higher level. It has also been during the 80's and 90's that much
                    of the higher density multi-family development has occurred at Carolina Beach.










                                                                              Page 5-1






                                                                                 Present Conditions



                       (b) Racial Composition, 1990

                       Race                       Carolina Beach.             % of Total                    New Hanover                 % of Total
                                                                                                            County
                       Total                                          3,630                          100%                      120,284                         100%
                       White                                          3,568                          980/6                     94,895                          79%
                       Black                                             33                          1%                        24,097                          20%
                       Other                                             291                         1%1                       1,3231                          1%
                       Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 1 Profile 1--Characteristics of the Population, P7. Race, for
                       Carolina Beach and New Hanover County

                       The Racial Composition, 1990 table shows that the town is less than 29/6 non-white compared to 21% non-
                       white for the county.

                       (c) Persons by Age, 1990

                       Age Group                  Carolina Beach               % of Total                   New Hanover                 % of Total
                                                                                                            County


                       0-4                                               165                         5%                        7,434                           60/6
                       5-17                                              498                         140/6                     19,880                          17%
                       18-24                                             357                         10%              _15,000                                  120/6
                       .21-44                                          1,239                         W/o                       39,155                          33%
                       45-64                                             908                         25%                       23,749                          20%
                       65+                                               464                         13%                       15,066                          13%
                       Total                                           3,6311                        100%1                     120,2841                        100%1
                       Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 3 Page 2 of 29 Population: Age, Race and Sex (Part 1),
                       P13 /14/ 15. Race by Sex by Age, for Carolina Beach and New Hanover County

                       The Persons By Age, 1990 table shows the relative distribution of age groups in the town. The
                       percentages shown indicate few significant differences between the age composition of Carolina Beach
                       and the age composition of New Hanover County. The largest differential is in the 45-64 year old age
                       group in which Carolina Beach has 1 out of every 4 residents in that category compared to 1 out of 5 in
                       the county.

                       (d) Educational Attainment, Persons 25 and Over in 1990


                       Education                   Carolina Beach              % of Total                   New Hanover                 % of Total
                       Completed                                                                            County

                       <9th grade                                        104                         40/6                      5,279                           7%
                       9-12 No Diploma                                   335                         14%                       11,767                          15%
                       H.S. Graduate                                     782                         30%                       22,578                          299/6
                       College, no degree                                693                         27/6-                     15,760                          201/6
                       Associates Degree                                 185                         7%                        6,045                           80/6
                       Bachelors Degree                                  321                         12%                       11,935                          15%
                       Graduate or                                       171                         7%                          4606                          60/6
                       Professional
                       Degree
                       Total                                           2,611                         1000/0                    77,970                          1000/0
                       Source: 1990 Census of Po ulation and Housing, STF 3 Page 10 of 29 Population: School Enrollment and Educational
                       Attainment, P57/58/59/2.' Educational Attainment by Race and Hispanic Origin, for Carolina Beach and New
                       Hanover County


                                                                                        Page 5-2






                                                                                  Present Conditions



                       The Educational Attainment of the residents of Carolina Beach is generally in line with the educational
                       attainment of residents of New Hanover County as a whole. The most significant difference would be in
                       the category "College, No Degree" in which 27 percent of the Carolina Beach respondents to the census
                       survey said that they fit this category, compared with 20 percent of respondents in New Hanover County
                       as a whole.


                       (e) Housing Types, 1990

                                                   Carolina Beach              % of Total                   New Hanover                 % of Total
                                                                                                            County
                       Total, All Housing                        3,342                         100%                    57,076                           10011/0
                       Units
                       Total, All Single                         1,271                          38%                    36,102                              63%
                       Family Units
                            Detached                             1,191                          36%                    33,587                              59%
                            Attached                                 80                           r1o                    2,515                             40/6
                       Multi-family                              2,024                          61%                    15,683                              28%
                            2 units per                             242                            7/0                   3,289                             60/6
                            structure
                            More than 2                          1,081                          53%                    12,385                              220/6
                            Units per
                            structure
                       Mobile Homes                                   24      1                 <1%       1               4831                             90/0
                       Other                                          23      1                 <1%        1                460                            <1%
                       Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 1 Profile 8-H                           Unit Characteristics and Tenure,
                                                                                                         noven E
                       H41 / H42 / H43. Units in Structure, for C arolina Beach and New Ha                    r ounty

                       As shown in the Housing Types, 1990 table, about 45 percent of all housing units at Carolina Beach are
                       either a single family residence or a duplex. About 53 percent of all housing units are in multi-family
                       structures while less than 2 percent are in mobile homes or other housing units.

                       (f) Owner vs. Renter Occupied Housing, 1990

                                                   Carolina Beach               % of Total                  New Hanover                  % of Total
                                                                                                              County
                       Total, All Housing                              3,342                       100%                        57,076                        100%
                       Units
                       Occupied                                        1,605                         48%                       48,139                         840/6
                          Owner Occupied                                 8011                        240%1                     30,193                         53%1
                          Renter Occupied 1                              8041                        240/61                    17,946                         31%1
                       Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 1 Profile 5-Housing Unit Characteristics and Tenure,
                       H1 /H2/H3/H5. Housing-Units, Tenure and Vacancy, for Carolina Beach and New Hanover County

                       The Owner vs. Occupied Housing, 1990 table shows that in 1990, 48 percent of all housing units at
                       Carolina Beach were occupied on a year-round basis, compared with 84 percent in the county as a whole.
                       Of the year-round units in the town, the percentages were evenly split between owner occupied and
                       renter occupied units.








                                                                                         Page 5-3







                                                                 Present Conditions



                   (g) Vacant and Seasonal Housing, 1990

                                         Carolina Beach        % of Total            New Hanover           % of Total
                                                                                     County
                   Total, All Housing                    3,342                 100%               57,076                   100%
                   Units
                   Vacant                                1,737                  52%                 8,937                   16%
                      For Seasonal,                      1,040                  31%                 3,345                    6%
                      Recreational &
                      Occasional Use
                      All other vacant                    6981                 21%1                 55931                  10%1
                   Source: 1990 Census of Pop@ul@tlon and Housing, STF 1 Profile 5-Housing Unit Characteristics and Tenure,
                   Hl/H2/H3/H5. Housing nits, Tenure and Vacancy, for Carolina Beach and New Hanover County

                   The Vacant and Seasonal Housing, 1990 table shows that in 1990, 31 percent of all housing units at
                   Carolina Beach were being held for seasonal, recreational, and occasional use, compared with just 6
                   percent in the county as a whole (which includes the beach communities).

                   (h) Housing Value, Owner-Occupied Housing Units

                   Value                             Carolina Beach        New Hanover County

                   Lower Quartile                            $57,300                   $52,000
                   Median ($)                                $80,100                   $72,000
                   Upper Quartile                            $104,900                 $103,700
                   Source: 1110 Census of PoFulation and Housing, Surnmary Population and Housing Characteristics, North Carolina,
                   Table 9, page 158 for Car na Beach and New Hanover County

                   In 1990, the value of owner occupied housing units at Carolina Beach was slightly higher than the value
                   of housing units in the county as a whole. In the upper quartile of housing value, housing units at
                   Carolina Beach were roughly equivalent to the value of housing units in the county as a whole.

                   (i) Contract Rent, Renter-Occupied Housing Units

                   Contract Rent                     Carolina Beach        New Hanover County

                   Lower Quartile                                $317                     $241
                   Median ($)                                    $386                      $324
                   Upper Quartile                                $482                      $416     J
                   Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, Surnmary Population and Housing Characteristics, North Carolina,
                   Table 11, page 189 for Carolina Beach and New Hanover County

                   In 1990, the contract rent of renter occupied units at Carolina Beach was about 30 percent higher in the
                   lower quarter of all units, 20 percent higher in terms of the medium contract rent, and 15-20 percent
                   higher in the upper quartile. In stating these figures, it is important to note that these contract rent figures
                   apply only to rental units occupied on April 1, 1990, the date of the official U.S. census. Thus, most "high
                   season" rental rates would not be reflected in these figures.








                                                                      Page 5-4







                                                                 Present Conditions



                   5.1.2 Local Economy

                   (a) Industry, Employed Persons 16 and Over in 1990

                                                          Carolina     % of Total       New Hanover % of Total
                                                         Beach                          County
                   Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries            80               4%               931              2%
                   Mining                                            0              0%                53             <1%
                   Construction                                   202              11%             5,243              9%
                   Manufacturing
                     Non durable goods                             82               5%             5,396              9%
                     Durable Goods                                 92               5%             4,093              7%
                   Transportation                                  60               3%             2,325              4%
                   Communications & public utilities               51               3%             1,901              3%
                   Wholesale Trade                                 58               3%             2,567              4%
                   Retail Trade                                   404              22%            13,161              22%
                   Finance, insurance and real estate             156               9%             3,371              6%
                   Services
                     Business and Repair                          103               6%             2,636              4%
                     Personal Services                             38               2%             2,228              4%
                     Entertainment and Recreation                  23               1%               969              2%
                     Professional & related services
                       Health Services                            193              11%             5,091              8%
                       Educational Services                        99               5%             4,718              8%
                       Other Professional and related             119               7%             3,322              6%
                       services                                                        I
                   Public Administration                           57               3%1            2,174              4%
                   Total, Employed Persons 16+                   1,817            100%j           60,179             100%

                   Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 3 Page 12 of 29 Population: Industry and Occupation, P77.
                   Industry, Employed Persons 16 years and over, for Carolina Beach and New Hanover County

                   The table above is a summary of employment patterns and occupations of Carolina Beach permanent
                   residents. The figures indicate that there are no remarkable employment differences between permanent
                   town residents and county residents. This lends support to the notion that Carolina Beach is, in some
                   respects, a bedroom community for employers in New Hanover County and the City of Wilmington.

                   (b) Household Income, 1989


                                          Carolina Beach        New Hanover
                                                                County

                   Median Household                    27,500                 27,320
                   Income               I                     I                      I
                   Mean Household                      35,391                 34,397
                   Income               I
                   Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housing, STF 3 Page 16 of 29 Population: Population: Income,
                   P80/81/107/108/1 10/111. Household, Family, and Non-Family Income in 1989, for Carolina Beach and New
                   Hanover County

                   The Household Income, 1989 table shows that the mean and median household incomes of town
                   residents in 1989 were nearly on a par with residents of the county as a whole.


                                                                       Page 5-5







                                                                      Present Conditions



                     5.1.3 Impact of Seasonal Population

                     (a) Estimate of Peak Overnight Population, 1995

                     Household Type:                  Number of ' Household or Total Peak Overnight
                                                      Units/Parties Party Size            Population
                     Year Round, Occupied                   2074                  2.23               4,625
                     Residential Units
                     Guests Staying in 1/3 of                691                  2.0                1,383
                     Year Round Residences
                     Vacant and Seasonal                    1812                  4.0                7,248
                     Residential Units
                     Hotel and Motel Rooms                   800                  3.5                2,800
                     Staying in Recreational                  250                 2.5                   625
                     Vehicles, Tents and Boats
                     Total                                  5587                                     16,681
                     Source: 1990 Census of Population and Housin NC Yffice of State Budget and Management, and Glenn Harbeck Associates.
                               dolor is                          f.
                     Basic metho       A= "A Methodolo       fc r stimatzng Seasonal Population in Coastal North Carolina, 1996 DRAFT"
                     availablefro        Division of Coastamnagement, Raleigh, NC.

                     The table immediately above is a matrix for calculating the estimated Peak Overnight Population for
                     Carolina Beach as it would likely have occurred over the July 4th holiday in 1995 (1995 is the most recent
                     year for which permanent population estimates are available from the State). In choosing the July 4th
                     hohday, it is important to note that the occupancy rates and party sizes are assumed to be at their most
                     extreme limitsfor the year. This is consistent with the intent of the calculation: to determine the peak
                     overnight population for the entire year. The estimate consists of five components, in order from top to
                     bottom:
                          (1) Year round residents
                          (2) Visitors staying with year round residents
                          (3) Visitors and summer residents staying in vacation homes, second homes, or condominiums.
                          (4) Visitors staying in hotel and motel rooms
                          (5) Visitors staying in recreational vehicles, tents, boats and other similar portable or temporary
                               housing.
                     Assumptions are as follows:
                          e About one third of all year round homes at Carolina Beach would have an average of 2 overnight
                           visitors over the peak day of the July 4th holiday.
                          * Vacation homes, second homes, and condos would house an average of 4 occupants-much higher
                           than the average household size of year round residents.
                          - The figure for the total number of hotel and motel rooms at Carolina Beach is an estimate based on
                           40 hotels/motels with an average of 20 rooms per hotel (Source: Carolina BeachlKure Beach Chamber of
                           Commerce and Yellow Pages for hotels/motels with a Carolina Beach address.)
                          * It is not unreasonable to expect that there would be a total of 250 temporary or mobile
                           accommodations throughout the Town and its marinas on July 4th, with an average party size of
                           2.5 persons.

                     (b) Estimate of Peak Day Population (Including Day Visitors), 1994

                     In recent years, Peak Day Population Estimates have ranged from 25,000 to over 30,000 people. (Source:
                     Chamber of Commerce and Carolina Beach Police Department) With the advent of Interstate-40 and the
                     tremendous growth of the permanent population of New Hanover County since 1990, projections of
                     future peak day population range as high as 40,000 by the year 2000. Because available parking space
                     typically reaches the saturation level by mid-mon-ting on a peak summer day, continued increases in peak
                     day population will be dependent in the future upon higher vehicle occupancy levels, shuttle services,
                     public transportation, and other methods.

                                                                            Page 5-6







                                                               Present Conditions


                   5.2 Existing Land and Water Uses

                   5.2.1 Existing Land Uses Mapped

                   (a) Categories of Land Use

                   The Existing Land Use Map 1996 provides a detailed, lot by lot inventory of existing land uses
                   throughout the Town of Carolina Beach. Categories of land use selected for the inventory, along with
                   their working definitions are as follows:

                       Single family residential- a free standing, site built structure intended for occupancy by a single
                       household unit.


                       Single Family, Manufactured Housing-a freestanding, factory built structure intended for
                       occupancy by a single household unit.

                       Duplex Residential- two separate living quarters in a single structure.

                       Multi-family residential-any structure with three or more separate living quarters in the building.
                       (Includes condominium buildings with multiple ownership but which may have a central
                       management service.)

                       Office and Institutional- includes offices, churches, schools, and similar uses.

                       Commercial-traditional retail establishments, commercial marinas, restaurants, and hotels and
                       motels, and amusements.

                       Commercial Services and Storage-includes wholesale establishments, repair shops and garages,
                       contractors buildings and yards, warehousing and self storage, etc.

                       Municipal/Public Works-public buildings and lands, water and sewer facility sites, etc.

                       Parks and Recreation-passive and active parks, trails, picnic areas, open space, public boat ramps
                       and docks, public ballfields, etc.

                       Vacant-developable land that is not occupied. (Does not include, for example, tidal marshes and
                       other undevelopable "vacant" areas.)

                   (b) Existing Land Use Pattern, Generally

                   The distribution of existing land uses at Carolina Beach reflects a distinct pattern of residential and
                   commercial development, influenced strongly by several predictable factors. In general, large lot,
                   automobile-oriented commercial uses are located along US 421 /Lake Park Boulevard leading into the
                   community from the north. Smaller commercial uses have historically clustered in the traditional central
                   business district/boardwalk/marina boat basin area of the community. Traditional single family
                   residential developments have been developed away from the ocean shoreline, while intensive multi-
                   family residential has clustered along the water's edge.

                   Note: While Htirricanes Bertha and Fran (both 1996) catised damage to many stnictitres at Carolina Beach, stich damage did not
                   restilt in the total destrziction of any Intildings within the Town. Two or three oceanfront properties at the extreme north end of
                   the Town limits experienced heavy damage, it is yet to be decided as to how -or whether these lots will be ittilized in thefittitre.





                                                                    Page 5-7







                                                              Present Conditions



                  (c) Existing Land Use Analysis By Sub-Watersheds

                  CAMA land use planning guidelines suggest that the analysis of existing land use be conducted in
                  conjunction with an assessment of water quality classifications-within the context of sub-watersheds, if
                  possible. In the case of Carolina Beach, there are three principal sub-watersheds, as depicted on the
                  Existing Land Use, 1996 map: (1) Carolina Beach Lake, (2) Hennicker's Ditch, and (3) Myrtle Grove
                  Sound. Land uses will now be discussed for each of these areas.


                  1. Carolina Beach Lake.
                  This is the southernmost sub-watershed in the Carolina Beach community. It consists of intensive
                  oceanfront development along much of the eastern, oceanfront edge of the watershed, a predominance of
                  manufactured housing in the extreme south end of the area, more traditional single family residential
                  development south, west and northwest of the lake proper, and a mixture of single family, multi-family
                  and commercial uses closest to the central business district and immediately north of Carolina Lake. This
                  area ultimately drains into Myrtle Grove Sound.

                  2. Hennicker's Ditch.
                  This area is comprised almost exclusively of traditional ground level, single family structures. It drains
                  into the Cape Fear River.

                  3. Myrtle Grove Sound.
                  This sub-watershed has the most diverse range of land uses of any of the three in Carolina Beach. As
                  stated previously, highway cornmercial style retail establishments have clustered along the US 421 /Lake
                  Park Boulevard corridor. These developments include many of the features normally associated with
                  commercial strip development, including extensive paved parking areas, numerous driveway cuts,
                  relatively large land tracts and a proliferation of highway-oriented signage. Land areas west of the US 421
                  corridor are predominantly single family residential and have a relatively low development density.
                  Developments east of the US 421 corridor exhibit a gradual transition from traditional single family
                  residential (closest to the highway and farthest from the sound) and more intensive multi-family
                  residential properties immediately adjacent to the west side of Myrtle Grove Sound. Finally, the outer
                  beach area on the north end of Carolina Beach is comprised of a mixture of single family residential, a
                  great many medium-sized, multi-family "six-pack" developments, and more intensive oceanfront
                  housing, particularly closest to the boat basin/marina area. This area also includes the extreme northern
                  end of Carolina Beach, which is natural and undeveloped.

                  (d) Land use conflicts
                  Land use conflicts at Carolina Beach have been customarily minimal regarding the mixture of residential
                  and small-scale commercial uses in the older part of town. The fine grain mixture of uses actually
                  encourages a sense of community, fosters pedestrian movement and reduces demand for automobile-
                  dependent trips. Rather, most land use conflicts have centered on two types of development: (1) large,
                  traffic generating commercial developments and (2) intensive multi-family development which must be
                  accessed through pre-existing single family residential neighborhoods.

                  For a more detailed analysis of land use and development patterns within various neighborhoods at
                  Carolina Beach, the reader is directed to Section 9, Land Classification.

                  5.2.2 Existing Water Conditions Mapped

                  CAMA land use planning guidelines call for the mapping and inventory of existing water conditions,
                  including the identification of DEM (Department of Environmental Management), stream classifications,
                  water quality use support (as identified by DEM), water shed boundaries, wetlands, primary and
                  secondary nursery areas, outstanding resource waters, and other features such as shell fish beds and beds
                  of submerged aquatic vegetation. The intent is also to show these water quality conditions in relation to
                  landside development conditions.

                                                                   Page 5-8







                                                                     Present Conditions




                     (a) Water Quality Categories

                     At Carolina Beach, water quality conditions in and around the town include DEM water quality use
                     support classifications (SA, SB, SC) and coastal estuarine wetlands. These categories of water quality
                     condition may be further described as follows:

                             SA Waters-generally suitable for shellfish harvesting and primary recreation involving
                             swimming on a frequent or organized basis.

                             SB Waters-suitable for primary recreation involving swimming on a frequent or organized
                             basis, but not for shellfish harvesting.

                             SC Waters-suitable for aquatic life propagation and secondary recreation including recreational
                             fishing, boating, and water related activities involving minimal skin contact.

                             Coastal Estuarine Wetlands-salt water marshes, subject to regular or occasional flooding by
                             tides, including normal wind tides. Marsh plants found here include saltwater Cordgrass.
                             (5p@Lrtina p.1terniflora), Black Needlerush Guncus roemerianus), Glasswort (Sahcon-tia
                                                                                                                             spp.), Salt
                             Grass (Distichlis spicata), Sea Lavender (Limonium, spp.), Salt Meadow Grass (Spartina patens),
                             and Salt Reed Grass (Sl2artina cyLiosuroides .

                     (b) Existing Water Conditions Analysis

                     The Existing Land Use, 1996 map also shows the location of estuarine waters by their water quality
                     classification. The water quality classification for Snows Cut is SC. Myrtle Grove Sound has a
                     classification of SB, with the exception of the central navigation channel, which is classified SA-Unsuited
                     for Shellfishing. Prospects for improving the water quality of Myrtle Grove Sound-adjacent to some of
                     the most intensively developed land at Carolina Beach-are doubtful, given on-going pressures to
                     intensify land and water uses in the area, with associated increases in pollutants and storm water runoff.

                     It should be noted that Masonboro Sound, while outside the Town's planning jurisdiction, has been
                     designated as an outstanding resource water (ORW) by the state. The Town's efforts to minimize future
                     increases in pollutants and runoff may result in long term benefits to the preservation of water quality in
                     these outstanding waters. In addition, while there are no primary nursery areas within the planning
                     jurisdiction of Carolina Beach, a secondary nursery area is located in the vicinity of Carolina Beach Inlet,
                     north of Snows Cut. For a more detailed analysis of water quality issues and the estuarine system of
                     AEC's at Carolina Beach, the reader is directed to Section 8.1.2, Areas of Environmental Concern.

                     5.3. Current Plans, Policies, and Regulations

                     This section includes a summary of certain local plans, policies and regulations that are pertinent to the
                     growth and development of Carolina Beach.

                     5.3.1. Thoroughfare Plan

                     In October 1990, Carolina Beach contacted the NC Department of Transportation and requested an
                     update of the Carohna-Kure Beach Thoroughfare Plan, which was originally adopted in 1973 and
                     updated in November 1982. Because of the close proximity of Carolina Beach to Kure Beach, and their
                     common economic ties, the Department of Transportation deemed it advisable to analyze the needs of the
                     island as a whole. At Carolina Beach, the plan noted that several intersections were experiencing severe
                     congestion problems. Two of the most troublesome of these were Carl Winner Street at US 421 and Carl
                     Winner Street at Canal Drive. Heavy traffic volumes, particularly during the summer months, wer@


                                                                           Page 5-9







                                                            Present Conditions



                  especially noted on US 421 through town (Lake Park Blvd.) At the same time, Dow Road, which is a
                  parallel facility to Lake Park Boulevard, was not very well utilized. The 1992 Carolina Beach
                  Thoroughfare Plan makes recommendations regarding many of these traffic congestion problems and
                  opportunities. At the same time, it suggests alternative transportation modes, including
                  recommendations regarding trolleys and bike ways.

                  5.3.2. Capital Improvement Plan

                  Carolina Beach does not have a capital improvement plan. As noted elsewhere in this document, the
                  community would benefit greatly from a planned and orderly system for scheduling and financing
                  needed improvements to water and sewer systems, parks, sidewalks, streets, and public buildings.

                  5.3.3. Utility Extension Policy
                  The Town of Carolina Beach currently extends utilities only to those areas t6t request annexation into
                  the Town's corporate limits.

                  5.3.4. Open Space and Recreation Policy

                  Carolina Beach has 27 ocean access points that are provided by either the Town or by New Hanover
                  County (20 Town, 7 County). The Town also has estuarine access points off Canal Drive with facilities
                  ranging from bulk headed grassy areas to gazebos over the water. More detailed information on the
                  location and types of recreational facilities at Carolina Beach can be found under Section 6.2.8. Parks and
                  Recreation. In addition to beach access areas, the community has a 10 acre regional park at Dow Road
                  which contains a softball field, picnic shelter and tables and open space.

                  5.3-5. 1990 Carolina Beach CAMA Land Use Plan

                  The Carolina Beach CAMA Land Use Plan, first adopted in 1976, has been used as a general guide to
                  direct future growth and development in the town. State law requires that an update to the land use plan
                  be prepared every five years. An evaluation of the effectiveness of the 1990 update to the Land Use Plan
                  is presented in the appendices to this plan under Section 12.2.
                  5.3.6.'-i4ational FI
                                   ood Insurance Plan


                  In 1985, the results of the Federal Flood Insurance Study were reviewed and accepted by Carolina Beach.
                  The Flood Insurance Rate Maps are dated September 4,1986 and consist of Community Panel Numbers
                  375347 0001 C and 375347 0002 C. The two flood maps show that approximately one half of the
                  developed area of Carolina Beach is located within the 100 year flood zone.

                  5.3.7. Zoning

                  The current Town zoning ordinance was adopted on November 29,1984. The 1984 zoning rewrite
                  updated the Town's previous zoning ordinance, first adopted on January 11, 1977. The ordinance
                  includes general provisions for development as well as district regulations specific to uses ranging from
                  single family residential to marina businesses. The Town's zoning ordinance also controls off street
                  parking, signs, fences, and conditional uses. The ordinance is amended from time to time in keeping with
                  state and local statutes.


                  5.3.8. Subdivision Regulations

                  The subdivision regulations of the Town of Carolina Beach, enacted in 1977, specify the procedure by
                  which land may be subdivided and recorded. Minimum design standards and required improvements
                  for new subdivisions are also included, such as grading, curb and gutter, sidewalks, and other utilities.

                                                                 Page 5-10







                                                              Present Conditions



                  5.3.9. Building Code)
              VI  All components of the North Carolina State Building Code are administered and enforced on behalf of the
                  Town by New Hanover County.

                  5.3.10. Nuisance Ordinance


                  The Carolina Beach Code of Ordinances, Chapter 10, addresses nuisances such as indecent exposure,
                  drinking in public, unnecessary noises, weeds and junk on property and abandoned property.

                  5.3.11. Dune Protection

                  The Town's local CAMA Permit Officer and state CAMA Permit Officers have regulatory control over
                  construction which would effect the frontal dune line of Carolina Beach. While the Town code of
                  ordinances does not specifically address dune protection elsewhere in the community, the Town does
                  seek to protect all dune areas in the development review process.

                  5-3.12. Sedimentation and Erosion ControV

                  In addition to the requirements of the State regarding soil erosion and sedimentation control, Section
                  12.154 in the Town code of ordinances addresses erosion control measures to be taken during all grading,
                  excavation or other land disturbing activities.

                  5.3.13. Storm Water Management Plans

                  Section 12-218 through 12-231 of the Town code of ordinances addresses storm water management and
                  drainage. The ordinance requires, prior to authorization or any building permit, that plans be submitted
                  for review and approval by the Town, showing stream flow, runoff calculations and drainage plans.

                  5.3.14. Mobile Home Park Ordinance


                  Section 6.13 of the zoning ordinance addresses the development of mobile home parks as a permitted use
                  in the RA-5T District. Requirements for roads and drives, parking spaces, set backs, recreation space and
                  utility requirements are outlined in this ordinance.

                  5.3.15. Water Supply Plan

                  This 1995 Plan assesses the water supply-needs of the Town of Carolina Beach through the year 2020 and
                  compares those needs with the current availability of water supply sources to meet those needs. The plan
                  then suggests a strategy for meeting the projected water demand. The plan also includes specific goals for
                  the five year period 1995 to the year 2000. By law, this plan must be updated at least every five years, or
                  more frequently as conditions change.

                  (c) Means of Enforcement, (Staffing and Ordinance Adequacy)

                  Responsibilities for enforcing each of the plans, policies, and regulations contained in this section are
                  outlined in many of the applicable paragraphs above. Generally, enforcement for plans and ordinances
                  not specifically noted is the responsibility of the Town's planner/local CAMA enforcement officer-who
                  coordinates all planning and zoning matters. Planning and land development matters are brought before
                  the Carolina Beach Planning Board, which meets monthly. The Planning Board conducts reviews and
                  makes recommendations to the Town Council, which has final responsibility for making planning and
                  zoning decisions.



                                                                  Page 5-11







                                                             Present Conditions


                  5.4. Relationship of Land Use Regulations to CAMA Land Use plan

                  The CAMA Land Use plan, when used properly, can be instrumental in helping to guide future growth
                  and development at a rate and degree acceptable to the town, while maintaining the quality of life and
                  environmental integrity. The land use plan should be viewed as the policy foundation for the Town's
                  zoning ordinance and its other land use and regulatory controls. Following completion of each land use
                  plan update, a major objective of the Town should be to implement appropriate amendments to local
                  government regulations consistent with the land use plan.
















































                                                                 Page 5-12







                                                                 Cotistraints


                  6. Co       nstraints

                  6.1 Land Suitability

                       Physical Limitations for Development

                  (4) Natural Hazard Areas,'

                  Natural hazard areas at Carolina Beach may be described, for the most part, in one of three categories: (1)
                  areas subject to washover and "static" flooding (2) areas subject to storm surge and "dynamic" flooding,
                  and (3) areas subject to shoreline erosion and loss of property.

                  (1) Areas Subject To "Static" Flooding

                  About one half of the developed land area at Carolina Beach is subject to total inundation during the 100
                  year storm. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified these areas on the flood
                  insurance rate maps (F.I.R.M.'s) as being in the A Zone, subject to washover and flooding. As older
                  structures have been replaced over the years, the Town has been successful in implementing new
                  construction standards that elevate most substantial new improvements above the 100 yea  r flood level.

                  (2) Areas Subject To Storm Surge And "Dynamic" Flooding.)

                  These are areas of the coast subject to high velocity wave action and storm surge during severe storms.
                  These areas typically extend along the shoreline and to some distance landward of the frontal dune. The
                  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified these areas on the flood insurance rate
                  maps (F.I.R.M.'s) as being located in the V zone. The Division of Coastal Management has also provided
                  the Town with a copy of the so-called SLOSH maps which identify the anticipated extent of storm surge
                  under different hurricane scenarios. These maps are available for inspection at Town Hall.

                  (3) Areas Subject To Shoreline Erosion/

                  These are typically areas along the ocean shoreline which are especially vulnerable to effects of sand,
                  wind, water and erosion. Such hazardous areas may include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other
                  areas in which geologic, vegetative and soil conditions indicate a substantial possibility of excessive
                  erosion or flood damage. Wid-tin CAMA such hazardous areas have been framed as the Ocean Hazard
                  system of Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's), and may be further identified according to four
                  specific sub areas as follows:

                          (1) The ocean erodible area
                          (2) The high hazard flood area
                          (3) The inlet hazard area and
                          (4) The unvegetated beach area.

                  Each of these areas is described in greater detail under Section 8.1.2E of this plan.

                  (b) Areas with Soil Limitations

                  Soil characteristics for Carolina Beach are described in the 1977 Soil Survey of New Hanover County and
                  referenced in the 1991 Land Use Plan Update. Based on the soils report, Carolina Beach is made up
                  primarily of six soil types identified on the following chart:




                                                                  Page 6-1







                                                                     Constraints



                                                            CAROLINA BEACH SOILS


                                                                High Water         Shallow        Compaction       Septic Tank
                   Sy-mbol Name                  Flooding          Table             Soils           (Roads)             Use

                   Ur Urban Land                 Varies            Varies            Varies           Varies          Varies

                   Rm         Rimini             None                -6'          Moderate            Slight          Slight*
                                                                               (Cutbanks Cave)
                   Mu         Murville           Frequent              -1            Severe           Severe          Severe

                   Le         Leon               None                  -1            Severe           Severe          Severe

                   Ly         Lynn Haven         Frequent              -1            Severe           Severe          Severe

                   Jo         Johnston           Frequent              -1.5          Severe           Severe          Severe

                   *Contamination of nearby water supplies is a hazard if the soils are usedfor sewage disposal.
                   "Severe limitationsfor shallow soils, compaction and septic tank use are due primarily to wetness. Soils with high
                   water table conditions may be considered "404" wetlands by Army Corps of Engineers. Final determination must be
                   made by on-site inspection Of each property.

                   Much of Carolina Beach has already been developed. Many of these developed areas are shown as Urban
                   Land or Rimini soils. The Town's remaining undeveloped areas are designated largely as Murville (Mu),
                   Leon (Le), Lynn Haven (Ly) and Johnston Uo) soils. The table shows that each of these last four soil types
                   have severe problems because of wetness or shallow soils, compaction and severe problems for septic
                   tank use. Leon soils are the only soils of these four that do not have frequent flooding problems. Each of
                   the last four soils shown on the chart have a high water table.

                   For a more detailed explanation of the capabilities and characteristics of soil types found at Carolina
                   Beach, please see the Soil Survey of New Hanove Coun1y published by the US Department of
                   Agriculture Soil Conservation Service, 1977. The report also shows the general location and extent of
                   these soils on maps.

                   (c) Water Supply Areas

                   The Town of Carolina Beach obtains its water supply from 11 wells that draw from the Castle Hayne
                   Aquifer. (See the Water and Sewer Map for well site locations.) While this deep aquifer does receive
                   some recharge from overlying aquifers, the primary recharge area is located some distance away in the
                   Scotts Hill, Murrayville area and Pine Valley area of New Hanover County and Wilmington.

                   The 1990 Annexation Report for Carolina Beach prepared by Municipal Engineering Services Company,
                   PA, observed that during summer months the Town's wells often run in excess of 20 hours per day in
                   order to meet water demands. Division of Health Services regulations require that the average daily
                   water demand be satisfied within a 12-hour pumping period on any well. Water records for 1993 through
                   1996 indicate average daily water use during the peak summer months of 1.0 to 1.2 n-dffion gallons per
                   day.

                   (d) Areas With Slopes Exceeding 12%

                   Slopes exceeding 12% are located in some areas on the western side of Carolina Beach and inside the
                   Sunny Point Buffer Zone. The areas on the western side of Carolina Beach are along Snow's Cut. The
                   areas in the Buffer Zone include several large sand dunes with steep slopes subject to erosion. None of
                   these areas are subject to development based upon restrictions on their use.

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                  (e) Shoreline Areas With High Erosion Potential)

                  Much of the north end of Carolina Beach has the potential for high erosion rates. Virtually any portion of
                  the oceanfront, however, may be subject to significant changes in erosion/ accretion rates.

                  (f) Small Watersheds Draining Into Special Waters

                  There are three principal sub-watersheds within the planning jurisdiction of Carolina Beach. As depicted
                  on the Existing Land Use, 1996 map, they are: (1) Carolina Beach Lake, which ultimately drains into
                  Myrtle Grove Sound, (2) Hennicker's Ditch, which drains into the Cape Fear River, and (3) Myrtle Grove
                  Sound, which also drains into the Sound. None of these areas are considered to be "special waters" in that
                  they are classified as either SB (suitable for swimn-dng but not shellfishing) or SC (suitable for general
                  recreation with limited skin contact with the water). For a complete description of the land use activities
                  prevalent in each of these sub-watersheds, see Section 5.2.1 (B)

                  6.1.2  Fragile Areas

                  (a) General

                  '.Fragile areas" are those areas which could easily be damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or poorly
                  planned development. Included are coastal wetlands, sand dunes, ocean beaches and shorelines,
                  estuarine waters and shorelines, outstanding resource waters, public trust waters, complex natural areas,
                  areas sustaining remnant species, unique geologic formations, national landmarks, wooded swamps,
                  prime wildlife habitats, scenic points, archaeological and historical sites, maritime forests, and "404"
                  wetlands.


                  As a coastal and estuarine community, virtually all of Carolina Beach consists of or is adjacent to fragile
                  areas associated with the coastal environment: the tidal and nontidal wetlands, the ocean and estuarine
                  areas, dunes, scenic points, natural areas, and public trust waters. The general location and extent of
                  important fragile area resources at Carolina Beach are identified on the Fragile Areas Map, 1996.

                  Some of these fragile areas have been specifically designated by the State of North Carolina as being
                  critical resource areas; environmentally significant and vulnerable to damage and destruction by
                  development. These "Areas of Environmental Concern" or "AEC's" are described in detail, along with
                  applicable policies, under Section 8.1.2 of the Resource Protection Policies Section of this plan. Other
                  fragile areas are more fully described below.

                  (b) Coastal Complex Natural Areas

                  Coastal complex natural areas are defined as lands that support native plant and animal communities and
                  provide habitat qualities which have remained essentially unchanged by human activity. Such areas may
                  be either significant components of coastal systems or especially notable habitat areas of scientific,
                  educational or aesthetic value. They may be surrounded by landscape that has been modified but does
                  not drastically alter conditions within the natural areas. Coastal complex areas are significant in that they
                  function as a key biological component of natural systems and provide habitat suitable for threatened or
                  endangered species or support plant or animal communities representative of pre-settlement conditions.
                  Coastal complex natural areas may be designated as an Area of Environmental Concern (AEC) by the
                  Coastal Resources Comn-tission.


                  The Carolina Beach Natural Area is cited on the Natural Heritage Priority List and could be nominated as a
                  Coastal Complex Natural Area AEC. The Carolina Beach Natural Area includes portions of the Carolina
                  Beach State Park and the Sunny Point Military Buffer Zone. The Carolina Beach State Park contains
                  numerous significant ecological systems including Brackish Marsh, Coastal Evergreen Fringe Forest,

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                   Coastal Fringe Sandhill, Small Depression Pocosin, Small Depression Pond, Streamhead Pocosin, Vernal
                   Pool, Wet Pine Flatwoods, and Xeric Sandhill Scrub. Likewise, the Military Buffer Zone has significant
                   ecological sites of a Coastal Fringe Evergreen Forest, Coastal Fringe Sandhill Area, Pond Pine Woodland,
                   Wet Pine Flatwoods, Small Depression Pond, Streamhead Pocosin, Pine Savanna, and Xeric Sandhill
                   Scrub. These types of natural areas are becoming more significant as development consumes more and
                   more of these coastal ecosystems.

                   (c) Areas That Sustain Remnant Species

                   Coastal areas that sustain remnant species are those areas that support native plants or animals which are
                   determined to be rare or endangered (synonymous with threatened and endangered), within the coastal
                   area. These places provide habitat necessary for the survival of existing populations of rare or endangered
                   species within the coastal area and preserve our natural heritage and protect natural diversity which is
                   related to biological stability.

                   Carolina Beach State Park is a habitat for numerous threatened and endangered species. The American
                   Alligator, the Crawfish Frog, the Branched Gerardia, the Venus Fly Trap, the Southern Bog-Button, the
                   Coastal Beakrush, and the Tracy Beakrush are animal and plant species which warrant special protection
                   and are found within the Park.


                   The natural area on the north end of Carolina Beach is a habitat for the plant Seabeach Amaranth, a
                   threatened species which has been further endangered from O.R.V. traffic and erosion. This area in the
                   past has also been a nesting site for gulls, terns, and skimmers but was listed as inactive during 1983 and
                   1988 surveys.

                   The Carolina Beach Town Lake is a habitat for the American Alligator.

                   (d) Areas Containing Unique Geologic Formations

                   The Carolina Beach State Park contains three unique geological formations. The first is Sugarloaf, a
                   prominent relic sand dune. There is also a regionally significant ridge and swale formation which has
                   marine deposits underlain by detrital limestone of the Cape Fear Coquina Formation. Solution has
                   resulted in elliptical sinks.

                   There is also an outcrop of coquina rock which was exposed when Snow's Cut was engineered.

                   (e) Registered Natural Landmarks

                   There are no Registered Natural Landmarks within the Carolina Beach area according to the Natural
                   Heritage Division. The Sugarloaf area in the Carolina Beach State Park could conceivably qualify for
                   registration because of its regional significance.

                   (f) Wooded Swamps

                   Swamp forest communities occur in two locations -the Carolina Beach State Park and a larger site in the
                   Military Buffer Zone according to the 1984 report "Conservation Resources in New Hanover County"
                   prepared by the New Hanover County Planning Department.

                   (g) Prime Wildlife Habitats

                   Several areas within Carolina Beach are prime wildlife habitats according to the N. C. Wildlife Resources
                   Commission. The beach strand is an important habitat for birds and nesting sites for loggerhead turtles.
                   The north end of Carolina Beach is a fish nursery area as well as providing nesting sites for colonial birds.
                   The Carolina Town Lake is a habitat for the American Alligator as well as a prime bird watching area. Of

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                   course, the Carolina Beach State Park and Military Buffer Zone are prime habitats for numerous wildlife
                   species.

                   (h) Scenic and Prominent High Points

                   Sugarloaf, located in the Carolina Beach State Park, is the most prominent point in the Carolina Beach area.
                   Sugarloaf is a 50-60 foot relic sand dune. In fact, this large sand dune was used as a navigation point
                   along the Cape Fear River during colonial times and, reportedly, offers one of the most scenic views in
                   New Hanover County.

                   (i) Archeological and Historic Sites

                   According to the 1984 report "Conservation Resources in New Hanover County" by the New Hanover
                   County Planning Department, there is only one significant archeological site within Carolina Beach. A
                   Prehistoric Late Woodland Ceramic site is located within the Military Bufter Zone in the vicinity of Ocean
                   Boulevard and Federal Point Cemetery.

                   (j) Maritime Forests

                   The Coastal Fringe Evergreen Forests located within the Military Buffer Zone and Carolina Beach State Park
                   are considered by the Natural Heritage Office to be Maritime Forests because of the maturity of the trees.
                   Former sites of Maritime Shrub Thickets were located at various points along the Myrtle Grove Sound as
                   identified in the "Conservation Resources in New Hanover County" report. However, these sites have
                   since been developed for residential use.

                   (k) Lands Identified Through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife National Wetlands Inventory

                   Carolina Beach, like other coastal communities, has been included in the National Wetlands Inventory
                   Program. U.S. Fish and Wildlife has used the U.S.G.S. 7.5'or 15'map series as a base. The Carolina Beach
                   quad has wetland delineation depicted by stereoscopicaUy interpreting high altitude aerial photography
                   and then transferring the information with a zoom transfer scope to the base map. Based on a review of
                   this information, the following major locations and types of wetlands have been identified:

                   East and west side of N.C. 421 entering Carolina Beachftom the Snows Cut Bridge. This area includes a
                   Palustrine system with n-dxed forests of evergreens and loblolly pine forests.

                   Northwestern soundftont at Myrtle Grove Sound near Snows Cut. T"his area includes the salt marsh
                   community with Cord Grass and some Palustrine system species of plants.

                   The north point of Carolina Beach between the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean. This area includes
                   Estuarine system and Riverine system species of plant material including Wax myrtle, Yaupon, Red Bay,
                   Loblolly Bay on dredged material.

                   Carolina Lake Area. This area is included in the Palustrine system and includes a shallow pond colonized
                   by water lilies.

                   Area located north of Ocean Boulevard and east of Dow Road. This area is also included in the Palustrine
                   System with mixed forests of evergreens and lobloHy pine forests.

                   Carolina Beach State Park and Sunny Point Buffer Zone. This area includes a large area of mixed evergreen
                   forests which is part of the Palustrine system and some Estuarine system and fresh water marsh.

                   Each of these areas may be located on the Fragile Areas, 1996 map.


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                   (1) Areas Identified Through NRCD's Natural Heritage Program

                   A major portion of the Carolina Beach State Park is a Registered Natural Heritage Area. Portions of the
                   registered area are owned by the State Park, while a major section is leased from the Department of
                   Defense. Registration as a Natural Heritage Area is a voluntary agreement between the landowner and
                   the State which can be rescinded within 30 days.

                   6.1.3   Areas with Resource Potential


                   (a) General

                   As defined by CAMA, Areas with Resource Potential include productive and unique agricultural lands:
                   potentially valuable mineral sites; publicly owned forests, parks, fish and game lands, and other non-
                   intensive outdoor recreation lands; and privately owned wildlife sanctuaries. These areas may be
                   nominated for approval and designation as AEC's by the Coastal Resources Commission. Some may also
                   be a part of other AEC's.

                   Within the jurisdiction of the Town of Carolina Beach there are no traditionally accepted areas with
                   resource potential. However, there is significant park and open space acreage within the Town limits.
                   Also, it could be said that the extensive marsh and estuarine waters at the north end of Carolina Beach are
                   indeed productive fish and game lands. Residents of the Town expressed strong interest in preserving the
                   environmental quality and productivity of these critically important natural areas. Various resource areas
                   are more fully described as follows:

                   (b) Productive and Unique Agricultural Lands

                   Two major soil associations exist within the Carolina Beach area: the Tidal Marsh-Newhan Association
                   and the Murville-Seagate-Leon Association. Neither of these associations is considered prime agricultural
                   land..


                   (c) Potentially Valuable Mineral Sites

                   To date, no mining permits have been issued in the Carolina Beach area. The geologic setting of Carolina
                   Beach could indicate the possibility of oil, natural gas, limestone, marl, phosphate and heavy mineral
                   deposits. In fact, the 1990 Land Use Plan Update noted that "exploratory drilling for oil has occurred just
                   outside the study area north of Snow's Cut." However, according to the North Carolina Geological Survey
                   Division, no valuable mineral sites, economically feasible to mine, have been identified at Carolina Beach

                   (d) Publicly Owned Forests

                   There are no publicly owned forests within Carolina Beach.

                   (e) Parks

                   Carolina Beach State Park is a 1,773-acre State park offering camping, a marina, picnic facilities, hiking
                   trails as well as a habitat for numerous significant plants and animals and unique geological formations.

                   (f) Fish and Game Lands

                   The northern beach end of Carolina Beach is a fish nursery area and warrants conservation. The 1990
                   Land Use Plan Update noted that here had been discussion about designating the Military Buffer Zone as
                   a game land and permitting bow deer hunting for short-time intervals. To date, such designation has not
                   occurred.



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                    (g) Non-Intensive Outdoor Recreation Lands

                    The Carolina Beach State Park offers non-  intensive outdoor recreation.


                    (h) Privately Owned Wildlife Sanctuaries

                    There are no privately owned wildlife sanctuaries in the Carolina Beach area.

                    W Prime Farm Land (Consistent with Governor's Executive Order Number 96)

                    There are no known prime farm lands in the Carolina Beach area.
                    6.2 Community Facilities and Services Capacity

                    In this section, the design capacity and level of utilization of the existing community facilities and services
                    within the Town are examined and analyzed to determine if future demands can be met. Future demands
                    are generally considered in the context of a ten year planning horizon, or the year 2006.

                    6.2.1 Wastewater Management System

                    (a) System Overview

                    Carolina Beach has one waste water treatment plant which discharges into the Cape Fear River. It is
                    located west of Dow Road within the Sunny Point Military Ocean Terminal Buffer Area. (See Water and
                    Sewer Map). Average, minitntim, and maximtim daily wastewater flow figures for the past few years are as
                    follows:


                                       WASTEWATER FLOW FIGURES, (MGD-) 1993 TO 1996
                                             Average                 Minitntim               Maximitni
                                          Feb        Aug            Feb       Aug          Feb       "u

                            1993        1.182      1.562          0.963      1.153       1.444      2.696
                            1994        1.322      1.737          1.137      1.461       1.808      2.164
                            1995        1.531      1.741          1.237      1.344       2.252      2.529
                            1996        1.063      1.627          0.751      1.299       1.265      1.889


                            *Wastewater flows, provided in millions of gallons per day (MGD), are strongly
                            affected by rainfall and flooding conditions and resulting infiltration and inflow into
                            the wastewater collection system of the Town. Thus, wastewater flow volumes may,
                            at times, appear to be erratic rather than gradually progressive in nature.

                    (b) Waste Water Treatment Plant Expansion

                    Peak summer season usage wastewater flow rates have approached, and occasionally exceeded, the
                    average daily permitted flow rate for a month. In response to concerns from the NC DEHNR, the Town
                    hired an engineering firm to design an expansion of he wastewater treatment plant from 1.85 MGD to
                    3.10 MGD. The start of construction was delayed by hurricane Fran. Construction was initiated in
                    November 1996 with completion anticipated within nine to twelve months.

                    Even with this treatment plant expansion, Town officials recognize that an additional plant expansion
                    (i.e. from 3.0 to 4.0 MGD) may have to follow closely on the heels of this expansion, due to continued
                    growth and planned annexation initiatives.



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                    (c) Condition of the Waste Water Collection System

                    The Town's wastewater collection system consists of a series of underground pipes made out of terra
                    cotta (clay), cast iron, and PVC. The Town has become aware of increasing problems with many of these
                    pipes, particularly the older sections made of terra cotta and cast iron. A remote camera inspection of
                    sample pipe sections revealed pipes that were in various stages of deterioration and with significant
                    offsets from one pipe section to another.

                    The Town is now planning a more thorough camera inspection of at least 20,000 linear feet of suspect
                    pipes, especially along the oceanfront. Options will then be explored as to the most cost effective means of
                    repairing or replacing the deteriorated pipes. Correcting infiltration and inflow problems (where ground
                    water enters the sewage collection system) will also free up capacity at the treatment plant, thereby
                    extending the life of treatment plant expansions.

                    6.2.2 Drinking Water Supply System

                    (a) System Overview

                    The Town of Carolina Beach is located in the Cape Fear River basin and utilizes the Castle Hayne Aquifer
                    for its water source. The Carolina Beach water system provides service to approximately 2,200 residences.
                    Carolina Beach uses deep wells, only, for its water supply. The existing water system consists of 10 wells
                    which can pump water at an average rate of 100 gallons per minute. During peak summer population,
                    pumps are operating at capacity for up to 20 hours per day, far exceeding the recommended 12. These
                    wells are located throughout the Town and their locations are shown on Water and Sewer Map. The
                    maximum capacity of the total system is about 1.6 MGD. To date there has been no detectable levels of
                    contaminants in the raw water.


                    Storage is provided by one underground reservoir holding 800,000 gallons, and one elevated water tank
                    hdIding 500,000 gallons. The water is treated with chlorine prior to delivery. Treatment occurs at the
                    wellhead for five weUs, and at the water treatment plant for five other wells. The water treatment plant is
                    located on the west side of Dow Road opposite Clarendon Avenue.

                    (b) Condition of the Water Supply and Distribution System

                    While the condition of the Town's water supply distribution lines are thought to be clearly better than the
                    condition of many suspect sewer lines, Town officials do not have good information about water hnes,
                    either. Because of this, the Town administration will be pursuing a planned approach to assessing the
                    condition of water system lines on a scheduled basis.

                    (c) Current Water Demand

                    The monthly average water use for the past several years was as follows:

                                                  AVERAGE WATER USE (MGD)
                                      -             Minimum (Feb)              Maximum (julvj
                                      1993                 .509                      1.100
                                      1994                 .560                      1.122
                                      1995                 .607                      1.184
                                      1996                 .736                      1.211

                    In all years, the highest usage day has traditionally been July 4 with water consumption averaging over
                    1.4 MGD.





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                 (d) Future Water Demand

                 The 1990 annexation feasibility report prepared by Municipal Engineering Services Company, PA,
                 estimated a need for an additional 760,000 gallon5 per day of water to amex Wilmington Beach and
                 Hanby Beach and 330,000 additional gallons per day for the northern annexation area. If implemented,
                 and absent expansion of production capability, this 1.1 million gallons per day additional load would
                 result in a dramatic shortage in the water supply. To comply with the State Division of Health Services
                 regulations, (which require that the average daily water supply demand be satisfied within a 12 hour
                 pumping period on any given well), a total of 28 wells with an average pumping rate of 125 gallons per
                 minute would be necessary to provide a firm 2.5 million gallons per day water supply. This would
                 require an additional 18 wells and a new 750,000 elevated storage tank to serve existing and proposed
                 needs.


                 (e) Potential Sources of Future Supply

                 The Town of Carolina Beach recognizes a pressing need to evaluate potential sources of future water
                 supply. The ability of the Town to drill additional wells is limited, in areas available to do so, without the
                 additional wells adversely influencing existing wells. No formal studies have been performed; however,
                 the following options appear to be those which are readily available:

                         9. Reverse Osmosis Plant: Areas within the Cape Fear River flood plane along the western shore
                         of the Island appear suitable for such an installation. None of this property is within the
                         corporate limits of Carolina Beach; therefore, permission would have to be obtained from either
                         the Sunny Point Military Terminal or the North Carolina State Park System.

                           Additiona Well Eigl!Ls: To drill additional wells, the Town would have to procure additional
                         property across the Intracoastal Waterway (Snows Cut) within New Hanover County. The water
                         would then have to be piped to the Town.

                         9 Procurement of Water from other 4stems Water would be available from the Brunswick
                         County Water System via a subaqueous piping system. Water would also be available from New
                         Hanover County. Deliverable quantities of water from either source is unknown.

                 (f) Goals For Next Five Years

                 The following goals are contained in the Town's 1995 Water Supply Plan:

                         1. Develop a water conservation program.
                         2. Increase water flow rate capabilities to south end of Town.
                         3. Evaluate need for additional water tank.
                         4. Complete construction of waste water treatment plant expansion.
                         5. Complete construction of water and sewer lines to annexed areas.

                 Generally, the Town administration is recommending that the Town move quickly toward a capital
                 improvement program approach to managing future water ad sewer system repair, replacement and
                 expansion.










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                  6.2.3 Schools

                  The capacities and enrollments of New Hanover County public schools serving the Town of Carolina
                  Beach are shown as follows:


                          School                             Design Capacity                 Oct. 1996 Enrollment
                                                  w/o mobile units       w mobile units


                          Carolina Beach Elementary         471              NA                     446
                          Myrtle Grove Middle               810              NA                     810
                          Hoggard Senior High              1460             1768                   2186

                                             Source: Mark Strickland, New Hanover County Schools

                  While increases in the number of school aged children at Carolina Beach have been small at best, the New
                  Hanover County School System has experienced an explosion in the student population. As a result,
                  many schools in the system are at or over capacity. Carolina Beach Elementary School, serving grades K
                  through 5, is an exception. Myrtle Grove Middle School is currently at capacity, while Hoggard High
                  School is substantially over capacity, even with the addition of mobile classroom units.
                  New Hanover County school officials do not anticipate dramatic growth in the number of elementary
                  school age children within Carolina Beach proper over the next few years. However, growth in the
                  elementary school age population in the County is expected to continue to mushroom. Despite the
                  approval of a school bond referendum two years ago, County officials continue to struggle with the need
                  for additional classroom space.

                  Other educational services in New Hanover County, in addition to the public school system, include
                  several private schools (primary, secondary, and special education), the University of North Carolina at
                  Wilmington, and Cape Fear Community College.

                  6.2.4 Transportation Facilities

                  Next to water and sewer system upgrades, highway and street system improvements are the most
                  important infrastructure issues facing the community. After many years of operating under an old
                  thoroughfare plan, the Towns of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach came together in 1992 and, with
                  assistance from the North Carolina Department of Transportation, developed a new thoroughfare plan
                  for Pleasure Island. Three of the plan's most significant recommendations can be summarized as follows:

                          (1) More emphasis should be given to Dow Road as a bypass around the heavily congested part
                              of Lake Park Blvd. through the heart of Carolina Beach,
                          (2) Harper and Carl Winner should be converted into a one-way pair system to alleviate traffic
                              congestion problems for vehicles seeking to get to the north beach area,
                          (3) alternative means of transportation at Carolina Beach should be emphasized, including, for
                              example, a potential rubber wheel trolley and bike lane facilities.

                  It should be noted that while the Town does support greater use of Dow Road as a bypass facility, the
                  Town does not support the widening of Lake Park Boulevard or "improvements" which would increase
                  the volume or speed of traffic through the center of town at the expense of east-west pedestrian and
                  bicycle movement across the roadway.

                  In 1993, the Town attempted to implement significant portions of a thoroughfare plan by developing a
                  Comprehensive Street System and Traffic Management Plan. Support for the implementation of the street
                  system plan, however, was mixed. Generally, residents supported the plan while the business community
                  was opposed to it. As a result, the street system plan was shelved, and by default, the Thoroughfare Plan
                  also.


                                                                  Page 6-10







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                  6.2.5 Solid Waste Disposal

                  Carolina Beach, like other municipalities in New Hanover County, is using the County's sanitary landfill
                  and incinerator. The County incinerator has a current capacity of 200 tons of waste per day with plans to
                  expand to 450 tons per day. Waste pick up and disposal is done under contract with Waste Management,
                  Incorporated. Over the past few years, the state of North Carolina has required and then relaxed,
                  standards for recycling and waste reduction at the local government level. Regardless of these
                  requirements, residents pf the Town of Carolina Beach have voiced an ongoing interest in the
                  development and implementation of a voluntary recycling program.

                  6.2.6. Police


                  The Carolina Beach Police Department currently consists of 28 employees with 22 sworn officers (of
                  which one is a code enforcement officer) and 5 dispatchers (of which one doubles as a parking lot
                  attendant) and one secretary. During the summer months, (from about May 15 to September 20) the
                  Department also has responsibility for 28 lifeguards. The department has 5 patrol cars, 3 detective cars,
                  one beach patrol (4 wheel drive), and 3 all terrain vehicles (used by lifeguards). In the aftermath of
                  hurricane Fran, the Department has been housed on the second floor of the Town Recreation Center
                  behind Town Hall. The old Town Hall suffered extensive water damage, making cost effective renovation
                  of the building questionable at best. The most pressing need of the Department, therefore, is for a new
                  Police Department building or space within a building.

                  6.2.7. Fire


                  The Carolina Beach Fire Department has one full time employee (Fire Chief) and one part-time paid
                  employee. The department has 35 volunteer firemen. Equipment includes 2 pumper trucks, one 27 years
                  old and one 4 years old. The department also has one aerial truck (75'vertical reach*), one hose van and
                  one utility van. Carolina Beach has a fire class rating of five (5). In the aftermath of Hurricane Fran, Fire
                  Department offices were temporarily located in the Town's new Recreation Center. The Department has
                  since relocated back to its former site at the old Town Hall near the marina. Fire trucks and other
                  equipment are also at the old Town Hall. Like the Police Department, the most pressing need of the Fire
                  Department, therefore, is for a new building.

                  *All "hi h rise" structures at Carolina Beach, i.e. those structures which cannot be effectively reached by the
                  Town's Tre fighting equipment, are required to have sprinkler systems.

                  6.2.8. Parks and Recreation


                  In addition to the beach strand and water amenity offered by Myrtle Grove Sound, the Town of Carolina
                  Beach is blessed with a significant amount of park and open space land in and around the corporate
                  limits of the community. Foremost among these significant open space areas are the undeveloped north
                  end of Carolina Beach, Carolina Beach Town Lake, the Sunny Point Military Terminal Buffer Zone, and
                  Carolina Beach State Park. Because of these existing opportunities for recreation and open space
                  enjoyment, there is not significant pressure to create additional natural and open space areas. However,
                  increasing demands and pressures on the active use of the Town's existing facilities (ball fields,
                  gyrrmasiums, play equipment, etc.) call for continued attention to improvements and enhancements to
                  organized facilities. Among these enhancements has been the recent addition of a major recreation center
                  on the same site as the Town Hall Complex. This new facility offers significant indoor recreational
                  opportunities to town residents and visitors alike.

                  According to the Town's Director of the Parks and Recreation,   the Town has no recreation plan and the
                  existing facilities are at "maximum buildout" until such time as additional land is acquired. Existing
                  facilities at Chappel Park cannot be expanded b  ecause they are located in the Sunny Point Buffer Zone.


                                                                    Page 6-11








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                 6.2.9 Public Administrative Capability

                 The Town of Carolina Beach has a Council-Manager form of government. The Town Council consists of a
                 Mayor and four Council Members elected at large every four years with staggered terms. The Mayor is
                 elected for a two-year term. The Town Council is the governing body of the Town with the Mayor as a
                 voting member and the presiding officer. The Town Manager is appointed by the Town Council and
                 administers the daily operations of the Town as well as being responsible for implementing and
                 explaining the policies of the Town Council.

                 The Town provides a full range of services. These services include police and fire protection (with
                 volunteers), sanitation, the construction and maintenance of streets and infrastructure, beach rescue,
                 planning, and parks and recreation. The Town also provides water and wastewater services. There is no
                 anticipation regarding major changes in the form or size of local government in the Town.














































                                                                 Page 6-12







                                                                 Estimated Demand


                    7. Es       .timated Demand

                    7.1 Population and Economic Projections

                    7.1.1 Projections of Permanent Population

                    Population projections for Carolina Beach are an extrapolation from overall County-wide growth
                    trends and historic patterns over the past several decades. (See Section 5.1.1 Population and Housing)
                    The projections assume that the number of housing units being added to the County's housing stock will
                    resume a more normal rate of increase of 2000 units per year, down from the current torrid pace of 3000
                    units annually. At the same time, additions to the housing stock at Carolina Beach will continue to
                    hold the town's population level steady at about 3.3% of the County total through the year 2000.
                    Projections of population beyond the year 2000 will be dependent in no small way upon the ability of
                    the Town to deal with upgrades of the water supply and wastewater treatment capabilities of the
                    Town. At the same time, tendencies toward greater year round occupancy at Carolina Beach will be
                    offset by economic forces (obtainable rents, property taxes) which will increase incentives for rental
                    properties.

                                                           POPULATION PROJECTIONS

                                       Year                    Carolina        % of County      New Hanover
                                       1930                   Beach         95  Population  < 1  County  43,010
                                       1940                               637               1.3          47,935
                                       1950                             1,080               1.7          63,272
                                       1960                             1,192               1.7          71,742
                                       1970                             1,663               2.0          82,996
                                       1980                              2000               2.0          102,779
                                       1990                             3,630               3.0          120,284
                                       1995  (Estimate)                 4,625               3.3          139,577
                                       2000 Projection                  5,280               3.3 1        160,0001
                                       2010 Projection                  6,160               3.51         176,000

                                     Source: Census of Population and Housing, 1930 through 1990,        North
                                     Carolina Office of Budget and Management, New Hanover County
                                     Planning Department, and Glenn Harbeck Associates.

                    7.1.2 Projections of Seasonal Population

                    With the advent of Interstate-40 and the tremendous growth of the permanent population of New
                    Hanover County since 1990, estimates of peak summer service population have averaged about two and
                    one half to three times the off-peak permanent population. Thus, peak summer service population
                    (overnight visitors) is currently estimated to be in the range of 12,000 to 14,000 people and could reach
                    as high as 16,000 to 18,000 by the year 2010. (For more detail on Projections of Seasonal Population, see
                    Section 5.1.3). These numbers have their greatest significance when determining demand for water and.
                    sewer services, but also have an impact on traffic generation, solid waste management, recreation
                    services, law enforcement and a variety of other municipal services. In addition, it is important to note
                    that these numbers do not include the peak day visitor population, which can exceed 25,000 to 30,000
                    people-and which also must be factored in when determining equipment, facilities and personnel
                    needs of the Town.




                                                                        Page 7-1







                                                            Estimated Demand



                  7.1.3 Economic Projections

                   ection 5.1.2 of this plan provided a comparative examination of the employment characteristics of
                  Carolina Beach residents as opposed to New Hanover County residents. This comparison revealed no
                  remarkable differences between the employment patterns and occupations of Carolina Beach residents
                  and County residents. Due to Carolina Beach's increasing role as a residential"bedroom community" for
                  the Greater Wilmington area, the Town's economic outlook is apt to continue to reflect the overall
                  econornic prospects for New Hanover County. In the absence of a major national economic downturn, 8udi
                  prospects, as described frequently by economists at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, as
                  well as by several financial institutions in the State, call for continued economic growth and prosperity
                  for the Greater Wilmington area for the foreseeable future. Such continued advances 'in economic growth
                  for the region can only result in increasing demand for properties at Carolina Beach and continued
                  inflationary pressures on real estate values, rents, and taxes, relative to the balance of the region.

                  7.2 Future Land Use Needs

                  As stated so many times previously in this plan, future growth and development at Carolina Beach,
                  and thus, future demand for developable land, will be highly dependent upon the ability of the Town
                  to provide for adequate water and sewer systems. While there are a sizable number of undeveloped lots
                  in both the main residential area of Carolina Beach, as well as in Hanby Beach and Wilmington
                  Beach, (See Existing Land Use, 1996 map) most of these lots are not developable with septic systems.
                  Once adequate water and sewer is made available, pressures for redevelopment of currently
                  underutilized properties will mount, resulting in a higher intensity of use on existing developed lots.
                  This will be particularly true for the oceanfront area south of the Boardwalk all the way to the
                  corporate limits of the Town of Kure Beach.

                  7.3 Demand for Community Facilities and Services

                  For the sake of uninterrupted analysis and continuity of presentation, a discussion of community
                  facilities demands is included in each of the community facility evaluations provided in Section 6.2 of
                  this plan.

























                                                                  Page 7-2







                                                           Policy Statements

                 8. Policy Statements

                 Introduction to the Policies

                 The data collection and analysis completed in Sections 4,5,6, and 7 of this plan was geared to gathering
                 and summarizing information related to the future development and redevelopment of the Town of
                 Carolina Beach. Building on this information, a series of official local government policies are hereby
                 set forth. As officially adopted policies of the Town of Carolina Beach, they serve as the basis for
                 future decisions on land use, development and capital improvements.

                 Policy Format

                 Each major category in the policy section of the land use plan is addressed according to the following
                 f ormat:


                 Discussion                 A brief summary of the issues, relevant findings and, where applicable,
                                            alternative policy responses.


                                                                                        es  n    dac
                    icW'. $tat              Stat6 erit S) 6f10   100  ,Am
                                                                                A
                   i@ I @TX
                                                   '0
                                                    'bjed*y'es@
                                                                  ed.'..t th
                                            ROWU

                 In addition, Section 12.3 of this Plan, entitled the Action Agenda, includes a number of potential
                 Implementation Actions designed to carry out the Policies of the Land Use Plan over the next five years.

                 It is important to understand that the narrative (discussion) is not policy, and does not carry the same
                 degree of importance as the actual policy statements. The narrative is designed to provide background
                 and rationale for the ensuing policy statement. In most instances, the discussion serves to identify a
                 problem or issue, and may present a summary of findings from other technical studies. There is no intent
                 to establish policy within any discussion section. More detailed discussions of issues related to policies
                 are found in the earlier information sections of the Plan.

                 The policy statements, on the other hand, must be viewed in a wholly different light. As statements of
                 local government principle, the policies should remain substantially unchanged during the five year
                 planning period. Frequent changes to the policies would undermine their effectiveness in achieving
                 intended goals and objectives. Indeed, the policies are designed to maintain a consistent and predictable
                 direction for local government decisions affecting local growth and development during the planning
                 period. In reviewing the pages that follow, the reader is asked to focus greatest attention on the
                 policies, while relying upon the discussion primarily as explanations as to intent.

















                                                                Page 8-1







                                                                                         Policy Statements


                         Resource Protection Policies

                         8.0 General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years
                         The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines suggest that the policy section begin with an overall guiding
                         policy regarding future growth and development. The Town of Carolina Beach is generally known as
                         having a casual, high quality of life highlighted by its proximity to the services of the Wilmington
                         urban area, and the quality of its natural setting. The Town wishes to direct development and
                         redevelopment in keeping with a small town, family-oriented community. The following policy
                         statement emphasizes the need for diligence in working to preserve and enhance these qualities.

                         8.0 General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years
                         We, the residents, business, and property owners of the Town of Carolina Beach, shall seek to preserve
                         and enhance our community as both an appealing destination resort and year round place in which to
                         live. We will continually strive to protect and nurture the natural and man-made features of our
                         community which make it so unique. These features include our boardwalk/amusement area, marina
                         and boat basin, Caolina Beach Lake, Carolina Beach State Park, and our stable, permanent single
                         family residential neighborhoods. As the inherent value of our community continues to increase over
                         the coming years, and the forces of investment and change influence that growth, the Town's mission
                         shall be to positively direct growth such that the quality of each of these features is continually
                         enhanced within the context of a small, family oriented beach resort town.
 
                                                                                                 


                         8.1 Resource Protection Policies

                         Section 8.1.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Protection

                         Carolina Beach derives much of its economic revenue and its cultural charm from the natural amenities
                         of its coastal location. For the town to continue to be a desirable place in which to live, visit, and work,
                         these natural amenities must be protected, preserved, and whenever possible, improved upon. The
                         Town's land use plan therefore must establish decision making policies and implementation actions
                         designed to achieve a balance between the commercial and residential development of the town and
                         the continued maintenance of the natural systems and vistas that encourage such development.

                         8.1.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding                     Resource Protection
                         The natural and scenic rsources of Caolina Beach enable business owners to earn a livelihood,
                         residents to have an outstanding quality of life, and property owners to realize continued appreciation
                         of real estate values. The Town of Carolina Beach, through its policies and actions, shall not support or
                         approve any action, in singular or cumulative effect, which would jeopardize the long term viability of 
                         our natural and scenic resources, or the small town character of our community.                                                                                                    
                            
                                                                                                                                              
                                                                                           
                                        
                                                                                                                              
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                                           
                                                                
                                                                                                                   
                               

                         (Note: In keeping with this policy, the Town shall consider each proposed development activity for its individual impact on
                         natural and scenic resources. For example, while the addition of a single residence with a poorly designed drainage plan may not
                         have a significant impact on water quality in the sound, the cumulative impact of a great many such poorly designed drainage
                         plans would eventually have a profound adverse effect on the volume and quality of water entering estuarine waters.)

                         Section 8.1.1 Constraints Caused by Soil Limitations and Flood Prone Areas

                         Flood insurance rate maps dated September 4, 1986, show that approximately one half of the
                         developed area of Carolina Beach is located within the 100 year flood area. The 1977 Soil Survey of
                         New Hanover County shows that Carolina Beach consists primarily of Urban Land (Ur) and Rimini
                         (Rm) in the developed areas with Murville (Mu), Leon (Le), Lynn Haven (Ly) and Johnston (Jo) making
                         up much of the remaining undeveloped portions of Carolina Beach. These four soils, making up much of
                         the undeveloped portion of Carolina Beach, are subject to frequent flooding, have high water tables
                         and not suitable for septic tank use. Town officials will not encourage development in areas prone to
                                                                                                                                                                MIS
                                                                                                                                                                ually
































                         flooding or on poor soils, unless effective mitigative actions can be taken.

                                                                                               Page 8-2
 






                                                             PolicY Statements




                  8.1.1 Constraints Caused By Soil Limitations and Flood Prone Areas
                  Development will be discouraged from locations where stormwater runoff related flooding exists, unless
                  appropriate corrective improvements are to be completed as part of the project. Appropriate corrective
                  improvements shall be defined as those which resolve the drainage problem without increasing
                  stormwaler runoff on adjacent properties or in area waters, whether directly or indirectly. Similarly,
                  new development which would be susceptible to sound flooding shall also be discouraged unless
                  ,mitigative actions are taken.

                  8.1.2 Areas of Environmental Concern

                  The Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) of North Carolina calls for the identification of certain
                  environmentally fragile and important land and water areas that are judged to be of greater than local
                  significance. The Coastal Resources Commission (CRC), in cooperation with local governments in the
                  twentv countv coastal area, has developed a program of permit review within these Areas of
                  Envir@nmenta'l Concern (AEC's). The intent of the regulatory program is not to stop development, but
                  rather to insure the compatibility of the development with the continued productivity and value of
                  certain critical land and water areas. Each basic AEC category is summarized below 'with the
                  applicable policy statement immediately following. The reader is urged to consult with the full
                  definition and State-promulgated use standards of each AEC category before contemplating
                  development in these areas.

                  8.1.2 Areas Of Environmental Concern
                  The Town will support and enforce, through its CAMA pern-dtting capacity, the State policies and
                  permitted uses in the Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's). Such uses shall be in accord with the
                  general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, public trust areas and ocean hazard areas
                  as stated in 15A NCAC Subchapter 7H.

                  Note: The first four AEC's described bel07V together make up the so-called estuarine system AEC's:
                  Coastal Wetlands, Estuarine Waters, Estuarine Shorelines, and Public Trust Waters. They are
                  presented as a system of AEC's due to the strong degree to u,hich they are ecologically interrelated.

                  8.1.2 A Coastal Wetland AEC'S


                  Coastal wetland AEC's are marshes, subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including normal
                  wind tides. At Carolina Beach, these are predominantly salt water marshes associated with the
                  Myrtle Grove Sound and the intracoastal waterway. These marshlands serve as a critical component in
                  the coastal ecosystem. The marsh is the basis for the high productivity of the estuary, which is the
                  primary input source for the food chain of the entire coastal environment. Estuarine dependent species
                  of fish and shellfish, such as menhaden, shrimp, flounder, oysters, and crabs, contribute tremendous
                  value to the economy of North Carolina's commercial and recreational fisheries.

                  Marsh plants found in coastal wetlands include saltwater Cordgrass (Sl2artina alterniflora), Black
                  Needlerush (luncti5 roemerianus), Glasswort (Salicornia, spp.), Salt Grass (Distichlis spicata), Sea
                  Lavender (Limonium, spp.), Salt Meadow Grass (Spartina patens), and Salt Reed Grass (Sl2artina
                  qmosuroides). The roots and rhizomes and seeds of the marsh grasses serve as food for waterfowl, and
                  the stems as wildlife nesting material. The tidal marsh also serves as the first line of defense in
                  retarding estuarine shoreline erosion. The plant stems and leaves tend to dissipate wave action while
                  the vast network of roots resists soils erosion. Coastal wetlands operate additionally as traps for
                  sediments, nutrients and pollutants originating from upland runoff. Siltation of the estuarine bottom is
                  reduced, and pollutants and excess nutrients absorbed by plants do not burden the coastal waters.




                                                                 Page 8-3






                                                                                    Policy Statements


                        The primary coastal wetland or salt marsh area for Carolina Beach is located along the western edge
                        of the northern extension of the island. Other significant wetlands are found along the Cape Fear
                        River. Protection of these sensitive habitats continues to be a high priority for local officials. These
                        marshes should be considered unsuitable for all development and for those land uses which would alter
                        their natural functions.


                        8.1.2 A Coastal Wetlands
                        Due to the critical role that wetlands play in protecting the quality of estaurine waters and in
                        providing habitat for fish and wildlife, the Town strongly supports the proper designation and
                        preservation of all remaining coastal wetlands. Acceptable land uses may include utility easements,
                        fishing piers, and docks. Unacceptable uses may include, but would not be limited to, restaurants,
                        businesses, residences, apartments, motels, hotels, parking lots, private roads, and highways.

                                                                    
                                                
                                      
                             



                        8.1.2 B Estuarine Water AEC'S
                        
 

                        An estuary is a semi-enclosed water body having free connection with the open sea and within which
                        sea water is measurably diluted with fresh water drained from the adjacent land. The immense
                        productivity of estuarine waters results largely from unique circulation patterns, nutrient trapping
                        mechanisms, and the protective habitats they provide. Estuarine circulation, influenced by tidal
                        currents, fresh water influx, and shallow bottom depth, keeps the estuarine waters well flushed,
                        dispersing nutrients, juvenile stages, and wastes. In their natural state, these waters provide many
                        diverse and productive habitats. Common features in estuarine waters include mud flats, eel grass beds,
                        clam and oyster beds, and fish and shellfish nursery areas.

                        At Carolina Beach, estuarine waters are found in the Intracoastal Waterway, (including Snow's Cut)
                        the Cape Fear River, and the Myrtle Grove Sound area. Within the Town's jurisdiction, the Sound area
                        and intracoastal waterway north to Carolina Beach Inlet is classified SB, suitable for swimming but
                        not for shellfishing . Snow's Cut and the Cape Fear River are classified SC, suited for general
                        recreation, but not for swimming or shellfishing. North of the Inlet, Masonboro Sound was nominated
                        and designated as an Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) by the State. A secondary nursery area is
                        located adjacent to the natural area at the northern end of the Town.

                        The high value of commercial and sports fisheries and the aesthetic appeal of coastal North Carolina
                        are dependent upon the conservation and protection of its estuarine waters. Appropriate uses in and
                        around estuarine waters are those which preserve estuarine waters so as to safeguard and perpetuate
                        their biological, economic and aesthetic values.

                        Acceptable uses should be water dependent uses such as navigable channels, piers and docks, and
                        mooring pilings, provided that they do not directly or indirectly block or impair existing navigation
                        channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide, cause adverse water
                        circulation patterns, violate water quality standards or cause degradation of shellfish waters.
                        8.1.2 B Estuarine Waters
                        (1) Appropriate uses may include simple access channels, structures which prevent erosion,
                        navigational channels, private boat docks, marinas, piers, and mooring pilings.

                        (2) Any development or activity which will profoundly and adversely affect coastla and estuarine
                        waters will be discouraged. In the design, construction and operaiton of water dependent structures,
                        efforts must be made to mitigate negative effects on water quality and fish habitat, as determined by
                        NCAC 15A Subchapter 7H and the Coastal Resources Commission. The developer and/or owner will
                        bear the cost of any required mitigation.
                                                 
                               
                                                  
                                                                          
                        
                                                                                 

                                  
                                
                                                                              
                                                                               
                                                                                                                                                               
                                                               
                                                    
                                         
                                                                                                   
                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                  
                                                                      





                                                                                         Page 8-4
 

Policy Statements

8.1.2 C Public Trust Waters AEC'S

Public Trust Waters at Carolina Beach generally are all ocean and estuarine waters from the mean high
water mark to the seaward limit of State jurisdictionl.  The State of North Carolina supports the
traditional public rights of access to and use of Public Trust Waters for purposes including navigation,
fishing, and recreation.  These areas support valuable commercial and sports fisheries, have aesthetic
value, and are important resources for economic development.  Navigation channels, piers, marinas, and
bulkheads to control erosion are examples of uses which may be found acceptable in Public Trust Waters.

An issue of growing concern at Carolina Beach and on recreational waters throughout the nation, has
been the advent of the jet ski and other similar personal water craft.  Concerns have been raised
regarding the tendencies of jet skiers to operate these watercraft in a reckless manner.  Other concerns
relate to their operation in marshes and other shallow water estuaries, where damage to the marsh
may occur and where wildfowl is disturbed.  Locally, New Hanover County has been taking the lead in
coordinating the efforts of various local governments in working with the jet ski industry in developing
standards for the operation of these watercraft.

A second issue of concern at Carolina Beach has been the trend toward lengthy piers extending out into
the town's estuarine waters.  As prime waterfront sites--those with deep water close to shore--have
become developed, remaining "waterfront" sites have been building longer piers to reach water of
adequate depth for boat dockage.  This oftentimes results in unsightly and environmentally damaging
piers extending out into the coastal marsh.  And, while State regulations require that such piers shall
not block stream channels, the effect in many instances is to inhibit the movement of water craft in the
shallow water estuary.  This can be evident at high tide when small boats, which would normally
have free movement through the estuary, must constrain their navigation to limited pockets of open
water, essentially fenced in by these long pier lengths.  In the case of small draft sailing craft,
the presence of these long piers may totally prevent the craft from sailing through the affected body of
water.  Thus, the Town's policy reserves the right to be more restrictive than the State's standards
where the public's right to the reasonable, unobstructed use of public trust waters is being compromised.

8.1.2 C Public Trust Areas

(1) Any use which significantly interferes with the public right of navigation or other public trust
rights shall be discouraged.  Projects which would directly or indirectly block or impair existing
navigational channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide, cause adverse
water circulation patterns, violate water quality standards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters
shall be discouraged.

(2) The Town shall seek to ensure the responsible use of jet skis and other similar "personl" water craft
within the public trust waters of Carolina Beach.  Responsible use shall mean controlled, predictable
movements similar to other powered water craft while in navigation channels, marinas, and other
regularly trafficked areas, and the avoidance of marshes and other shallow water estuaries, where
damage to the resource is likely.

(3) The length of docks and piers, as they project into public trust waters, shall be controlled jointly by
CAMA standards and the Town's official pierhead line.  Whenever a discrepancy exists between the
two sets of standards, the more restrictive shall apply.

(4) The Town shall allow for the construction of docks and the development of boat slips in reasonable
proportion to the amount of land area and shoreline associated with the docks and slips.  Factors
considered shall include the total number of boat slips relative to the total acreage and total number of
housing units on shore, if any, and the number of parking spaces necessary to serve the dock or marina.
Standards which serve to reasonably restrict the over-development of marinas in limited public trust
waters shall be supported.

Page 8-5

Policy Statemants

(5) To manage existing and potential conflicts between activities competing for use of public trust
waters, the Town shall support the preparation and periodic updating of a water use and harbor
management plan for coastal waters at Carolina Beach.

8.1.2 D Estuarine Shoreline AEC'S

Estuarine Shorelines are non-ocean shorelines extending from the mean high water level along the
Town's estuarine sounds for a distance of 75 feet landward.  Although characterized as dry land and
thus potentially "developable", estuarine shorelines are considered a component of the estuarine
system because of the close association with adjacent estuarine waters.  These shorelines may be
especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse affects of wind and water and are
intimately connected to the estuary.

Because development within the estuarine shoreline AEC can harm the marshlands and estuarine
waters, and because of the inherent dynamic and hazardous nature of coastal shorelines, specific
restrictions, limitations and standards have been adopted by the State for construction in these areas,
as outlined in 15A NCAC 7H at .0209.  By regulation, projects cannot weaken natural barriers to erosion,
shall have limited impervious surfaces, and shall take measures to prevent pollution of the estuary by
sedimentation and runoff.  A CAMA (Coastal Area Management Act) permit must also be obtained for
compliance with these standards.

8.1.2 D Estuarine Shorelines

Unlike the other components of the estuarine system of AEC's, land uses along estuarine shorelines may
include some uses that are not strictly water dependent (e.g. residential and hotels).  However, non-
water related commercial uses (commercial enterprises that have no real economic relationship to the
water) shall be strongly discouraged.  Regardless of the use proposed, all standards of NCAC 15
Subchapter 7H relevant to estuarine shoreline AEC's must be met, and the proposed use must be
consistent with other policies set forth in this Plan.

8.1.2 E Ocean Hazard Area AEC'S

These are natural hazard areas along the ocean shoreline which are especially vulnerable to effects of
sand, wind, water and erosion.  Ocean hazard areas include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and
other areas in which geologic, vegetative and soil conditions indicate a substantial possibility of
excessive erosion of flood damage, and where uncontrolled or incompatible development could
unreasonable endanger life or property.  Improper development can also disturb the natural barrier
island dynamics and sediment transport, and can interfere with the beach's natural defenses against
erosion.  Furthermore, there is considerable evidence that sea level has been and is expected to continue
rising steadily.  This will result in higher water levels, inundation of wetland areas, and loss of
beachfront area.

Within the Ocean Hazard Area AEC are four sub areas as follows:  (1)The ocean erodible area (2)
The high hazard flood area (3)The inlet hazard area and (4)The unvegetated beach area.  Each may
be described as follows:

* Ocean Erodible AEC	The ocean erodible area is the portion of the island where there exists a
substantial possibility of excessive erosion and significant shoreline fluctuation.  The ocean erodible
AEC is based on a setback from the first line of stable natural vegetation plus an additional area where
erosion can be expected from storm surges and wave action.  This area includes the ocean beaches and the
frontal dune system.

Page 8-6





                                                                  Policy Statements


                   Ocean erodible areas are extremely dynamic lands highly susceptible to becoming displaced by the
                   ocean due to erosion, storms, and sea level rise. The sand deposits of ocean beaches and shorelines
                   represent a dynamic zone which does not afford long term protection for development. The nature of
                   tidal action and the force of storms is such that they cause the beach areas to constantly shift. In
                   addition, littoral drift is a natural phenomenon whereby sand is removed from beaches by wave action
                   and littoral currents and is deposited upon a different stretch of the beach.

                   The major management objective is to avoid unnecessary hazards to life or property and to maintain
                   reasonable requirements for public expenditures to protect property or maintain safe conditions. This
                   area must be preserved to the greatest extent feasible with opportunity to enjoy the ocean beaches of
                   the State. Appropriate development within the area must be that which will withstand the
                   prevalent natural forces, comply with CAMA and other state requirements, and not unreasonably
                   interfere with the public's use a nd enjoyment of the beach area.

                   effi@g,hHatar Flood AEC. This is the area of the coast subject to high velocity wave action and storm
                   surge during severe storms. This area typically extends along the shoreline and to some distance
                   landward of the frontal dune. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) identifies flood
                   zones for a "1`00 year" storm on the flood insurance rate maps (F.I.R.M.'s), and designates the high
                   hazard flood AEC as the V zone. The extent of flood hazard areas in Carolina Beach is shown on the
                   Hazard Areas, 1996 map.
                 "-*-Inlel Hazard AEC     I@let Hazard areas of environmental concern are especially vulnerable to erosion,
                   flooding, and other shoreline changes due to their proximity to extremely dynamic, migrating coastal
                   inlets. The inlet hazard area is defined to "extend landward from the mean low water line a distance
                   sufficient to encompass that area within which the inlet will, based on statistical analysis, migrate,
                   and shall consider such factors as previous inlet territory, structurally weak areas near the inlet (such
                   as an unusually narrow barrier island, an unusually long channel feeding the inlet, or an overwash
                   area), and external influences such as jetties and channelization."

                   The State's original inlet hazard areas were identified in the report to the CRC entitled "Inlet Hazard
                   Area" by Loie J. Priddy and Rick Carraway (September 1978). The inlet hazard area "shall be an
                   extension of the adjacent ocean erodible area and in no case shall the width of the inlet hazard area be
                   less than the width of the adjacent ocean erodible area." At Carolina Beach, areas adjacent to the Inlet
                   are designated a   high hazard area for development.

                   6-Unvegetated Beach AEC. These areas are fragile, unstable and unpredictable areas of the island.
                   They are subject to rapid changes from wind and wave action. They include the sand reaches often found
                   near inlets and undeveloped beach strands. As in other beach areas, the public maintains a right to
                   access to these beaches. While there are many areas of "unvegetated beach" at Carolina Beach, there
                   is no unvegetated beach AEC recognized by the Coastal Resources Commission within the Town.

                   Detailed maps with precise information on each Ocean Hazard Area AEC boundary are available for
                   inspection at the local CAMA permit officer's office at Town Hall.

                   8.1.2 E Ocean Hazard Areas
                                                                        d
                                                                                              .sk@:
                              ri                        61  c@e,anhazar.                      i             ie@       i&
                     @e,  WIR Wppki i@iï¿½. 4 e@   h                                                       lap
                                                            ..........
                                                             iff 6c
                                                                                                              MiAl
                                                                                                      R
                                                                                                            d
                                                                                                            es4o us  @m:@dcemH
                                                           t.*@iffl@g-ne                             sli-ONCA      5AW,

                   (Note: Also see Policy 8.3.8 B regarding development encroachment on the beach and dune system and on acceptable ocean
                   shoreline stabilization methods.)



                                                                       Page 8- 7


Policy Statements

8.1.4 A Freshwater Wetlands

Not too long ago in the United States, wetlands were viewed as "wastelands" to be filled in and made
"usable".  With the passage by the U.S. Congress of the Clean Water Act of 1972, wetlands came under
the protection of Section 404 of the Act.  As a result of that legislation, many wetlands are now known
as "404" wetlands.  These wetlands come under the permitting program authorized by the Clean Water
Act and promulgated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.  Today, both the scientific community and
the general population recognized the critical importance of wetlands in providing habitat for many,
many forms of wildlife and in helping to mitigate the severity of flooding and erosion.  For this reason,
the Town wishes to go on record regarding its support for the designation and preservation of all "404"
wetlands in its planning jurisdiction, whether fresh or estaurine. (Note: If Town officials suspect that a
site proposed for development contains wetlands, the Army Corps of Engineers is contacted to initiate
the necessary process of site review and permit issuance.)

8.1.4 A Freshwater Wetlands

The Town shall avoid undertaking any activity or approving of any activity which would result in the
destruction or removal of remaining "404" wetlands within the Town's jurisdiction, whether fresh or
saltwater.

8.1.4 B Maritime Forest and Tree Cover

According to a report published by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management in November
of 1988 (An Assessment Of Maritime Forest Resources On The North Carolina Coast, Michael J.
Lopazanski, et al) maritime forests are the woody plant communities that develop as the end result of
primary succession on coastal dune systems.  The report further notes that maritime forests are generally
restricted to coastal barrier islands.  Fortunately for Carolina Beach, several large areas of maritime
forest still exist as a distinct environmental entity within the Town's planning jurisdiction.  Also, all
tree cover at Carolina Beach, whether officially maritime forest are not, is considered a highly valued
asset.  Some sections of Carolina Beach, both old and new, are blessed with a sizable number of
significant trees that are worthy of attention and preservation.

8.1.4 B Maritime Forests, Tree Cover and Landscaping

Tree cover at Carolina Beach, whether maritime or otherwise, is a highly valued asset.  The Town
encourages efforts to preserve existing tree cover in new development and redevelopment.  The Town also
encourages the generous use of indegenous landscape materials in new and existing developments to
improve appearances, absorb stormwater runoff, and reduce ambient air temperatures.

8.1.4 C Outstanding Resource Waters

There are currently no Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) within the planning jurisdiction of the
Town of Carolina Beach.  On the other hand, there is an area north of the town's estuarine waters that
has received the ORW designation.  In the case of Carolina Beach, stormwater runoff from landside
development and the presence of a large number of marinas and boat traffic are the most likely causes of
water quality impacts in the Carolina Beach area.  Given current trends at Carolina Beach toward even
more intensive development and greater impervious surface areas, it is unlikely that the waters around
the Town would be likely to receive the ORW designation.  On the other hand, the Town wished to do
its part in controlling storm drainage and stormwater runoff so that Outstanding Resource Waters
within the general area of New Hanover County are not adversely affected.

8.1.4 C Outstanding Resource Waters

Although Carolina Beach does not contain ORW waters, the Town supports the designation and
preservation of Outstanding Resource Waters.  State efforts to protect water quality and thereby the
fishing industry of North Carolina, are supported.

Page 8-8

Policy Statements

8.1.4 D Shellfishing Waters

There are no estuarine waters within the planning jurisdiction of the Town of Carolina Beach classified
as SA--suitable for shellfishing.  Nonetheless, the Town will do its part in controlling strom drainage
and stormwater runoff so that shellfish waters within the general vicinity of Carolina Beach (e.g.
north of Carolina Beach Inlet) are not adversely affected.

8.1.4 D Shellfishing Waters

The Town supports and encourages the activities of the State's Shellfish Management Program.  The
Town promotes estuarine water quality through its storm drainage planning and stormwater runoff
policies.

8.1.4 E Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values

As noted in Section 6.2.2 of this report (Drinking Water Supply), the Town of Carolina Beach relies
upon a system of wells into the Castle Hayne aquifer for its source of potable water.  Over the years,
the Town has worked to add additional wells to the system and increase the pumping capacity of the
total system of wells.  However, the Town recognizes the limitations of the current system and the
critical importance of a viable water supply for the continued growth of the community.  The Town also
recognizes that nearly all of southeastern North Carolina now depends on either the Castel Hayne
Aquifer or the Cape Fear River for its potable water.  Therefore, the Town supports regional efforts to
protect the water quality of both the Castle Hayne Aquifer and the Cape Fear River.

8.1.4 E Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with Special Values
The Town shall protect the long term viability of the Castle Hayne aquifer by properly managing the
municipal well system, including proper well head spacing, proper pumping and draw down, adequate
storage, and other related factors.  In recent years, the aquifer's recharge potential at Carolina Beach
has been severly stressed due to heavy pumping.  Therefore, the Town shall make additional storage
and the exploration of alternative sources of water among its highest objectives for the next five years.

8.1.4 F Cultural and Historic Resources

In recent years, support for the protection and enhancement of historic structures at Carolina Beach has
grown in some sectors of the resident population.  At the same time, there is a natural dichotomy
between those who wish to preserve the historic beach cottage flavor of many of the older structures
and those who wish to redevelop these properties with sizable structures at a level commensurate with
the increased value of the real estate.  The Town's position is that while it encourages the preservation
of its older, potentially historic structures, it cannot reasonably require property owners to do so.  While
the Town will not attempt to mandate historic preservation, it can establish reasonable standards for
redevelopment so that new structures are not grossly out of scale or out of character with remaining
older structures. (See Policy 8.3.4)

There is also some debate among residents as to whether there are any historic commercial structures at
Carolina Beach.  It could be argued, for example, that most commercial structures in the traditional
boardwalk and downtown area have limited architectural merit.  In this case, it may be necessary to
consider "historic" in terms of an entire cluster of buildings, or in terms of an entire streetscape.
Proponents of historic preservation have often said that to remove one building from the streetscape of
a city block has the effect of creating a "missing tooth" in the fact of a street.  Thus, while the
preservation of particular buildings in the boardwalk and downtown area may be subject to debate, the
commitment of the Town to preserve the historic and cultural atmosphere in the boardwalk/downtown
area is clear. (See Policy 8.3.13)

Page 8-9





                                                                Policy Statements



                   8.1.4 F Cultural and Historic Resources
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                   8.1.4 G Man-Made Hazards')

                   Carolina Beach does not contain an airport or tank farms within its planning jurisdiction. However, the
                   community is impacted by a major munitions facility at the Sunny Point Military Ocean Terminal as
                   well as the CP&L Nuclear Power Plant located on the west side of the Cape Fear River. Although this
                   Sunny Point facility is outside the Town's jurisdiction, a buffer zone has been established on the western
                   edge of Carolina Beach to serve as a natural blast shield for private properties in the event of an
                   accident. The buffer zone is Zoned RA-20: however no development is permitted in this area. The Town
                   can best assist the Army in its attempts to mitigate damage in the event of an explosion by supporting
                   the Army's policies restricting access and development within the buffer zone area.

                   CP&L's Brunswick County Nuclear Power Plant is subject to federal regulation by the Nuclear
                   Regulatory Commission. CP&L periodically sponsors similar disaster simulation drills to alert local
                   public safety agencies of the correct response to various disaster situations at the nuclear power plant.
                   The Town can best assist CP&L in its disaster preparedness programs by insuring that its public safety
                   officials are fully informed of emergency measures to be taken and by requiring their participation in
                   these drills.


                   8.1.4 G Man-Made Hazards
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                   8.1.4 H Myrtle Grove Sound and the Cape Fear River

                   Myrtle Grove Sound is the main body of water and primary access channel from the heart of Carolina
                   Beach to Snows Cut and the Intracoastal Waterway. The western edge of Myrtle Grove Sound has
                   witnessed a trend toward condominium/ marina developments gradually displacing former single
                   family and commercial marina areas. The eastern edge, or ocean side of Myrtle Grove Sound, has land
                   which is much lower lying and prone to flooding. It is bordered by numerous smaller condominium
                   projects and a n-dxture of small, medium and large single family homes. The south end of the sound
                   contains the municipal marina which berths a number of sport fishing vessels in a picturesque setting.

                   Because of the extent to which development has occurred along the shores of Myrtle Grove Sound, the
                   sound is unfortunately prone to many pollution problems, ranging from excessive dredging for marinas to
                   increased storm water runoff from streets and structures. Fortunately, the regular tidal flushings that
                   the sound receives, along with the pollutant trapping wetland vegetation within the sound area to
                   help cleanse the water. To help counteract further declines in water quality in Myrtle Grove Sound, the
                   Town supports a variety of standards and review procedures to help reduce runoff and pollution into
                   this water body.

                   Recent studies by the University of North Carolina at Wilmington have revealed continuing declines in
                   the water quality of the Cape Fear River. While efforts to improve water quality in the Cape Fear
                   will require a basin wide effort, the Town shall support activities within its jurisdiction which will
                   help reduce adverse impacts on water quality in the Cape Fear River.

                   8.1.4 H Myrtle Grove Sound and Cape Fear River
                                                                              so

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                                                                     Page 8-16







                                                              Policy Statements


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                  8.1.4 1 North End Natural Area


                  The North End of the northern extension is the most environmentally productive and sensitive area
                  within the Town of Carolina Beach. This coastal beach and wetland area includes a wide spectrum of
                  ecological activity. The eastern portion is a low ocean dune system occasionally inundated by high
                  ocean waters. The western portion is a classic estuarine wetland, highly important in the life cycle of
                  most marine creatures. These estuarine wetlands are where many of the oceans finfish and shellfish
                  live for some portion of their lives. In addition, the beach and dune area serves as nesting habitat for
                  endangered sea turtle species.

                  Because of the high ocean and estuarine erosion rates, low elevation, high water table, and unsuitable
                  soils, this area is regarded as undevelopable. However, unrestricted access to this area by off-road
                  vehicles endangers many of its fragile ecological communities. By keeping vehicular traffic off the
                  dune areas and out of the wetland areas, it may be possible to improve the functioning of these
                  ecosystems, as well as improve the area's resistance to oceanfront erosion.

                  8.1.4 1 North End Natural Area
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                  8.1.4 J Carolina Beach Lake

                  Other than the Atlantic Ocean, and possibly the Town's public marina, the most widely recognized
                  body of water in Carolina Beach is Carolina Beach Lake. The lake has historically been the Town's
                  primary drainage basin. It also provides an important scenic vista within the town. Recent years have
                  seen increasing interest on the part of citizens and community groups to develop the recreational and
                  scenic potential of the lake.

                  Carolina Beach Lake is subject to periodic flooding, particularly after hurricanes and tropical storms
                  deluging the town with large amounts of rainfall. This flooding is increased by a high water table, low
                  lake elevation and development in the surrounding area. Also, the lake's only outfall, Myrtle Grove
                  Sound, is itself generally at unusually high levels during these major storm events, thus limiting its
                  capacity to drain the lake.

                  The large wetland area to the south of the lake helps alleviate the effects of flooding by serving as an
                  overflow retention pond during periods of high water. It also absorbs many of the pollutants carried
                  through drainage ditches and streets that might otherwise reach the lake. This wetland area has
                  received some development pressure, but because it qualifies as a 404 wetland, it is therefore subject to
                  the development restrictions of the Army Corps of Engineers. As a result, it has remained largely
                  undeveloped. The spongy soils of this wetland area classified as tidal marsh by the Soil Conservation
                  Service, providing a very useful environmental function by absorbing water and releasing it slowly.

                  Civic efforts related to the long term conservation use of Carolina Beach Lake have included interest in
                  acquiring wetlands on the southwest side of the lake, the need for a water quality study to address the
                  lake's eutrofication and algae overgrowth problem, the addition of trails and interpretative signs
                  around the lake, and the creation of a nature center in one or more vacant buildings in or near the lake.





                                                                  Page 8-11







                                                            PolicY Statenietits



                 8.1.4 J Carolina Beach Lake
                 The Town supports leaving wetland areas associated with Carolina Beach Lake undeveloped, since
                 these areas play a critical role in reducing the amount of floodwaters which threaten already
                 developed properties. The Town supports those development proposals in the vicinity of the lake
                 which reduce the amount of impervious surface or which otherwise reduce the drainage load placed on
                 the Lake, and which provide improved visual access to the Lake. Also, the Town supports measures '
                 which limit the flow of pollutants into the Lake. The Town supports the activities of the Coastal Land
                 Trust to accept tax deductible donations of property adjacent to the lake foi permanently dectic ated
                 pubhc open space.

                 8.1.4. K, L, M Buffer Zone/Carolina Beach State Park/Snows Cut (AIWW)

                 These three areas are considered together because the Town has jurisdictional limitations on its ability
                 to effect environmental and other land use decisions in these areas. The buffer zone is owned and
                 controlled by the US Dept. of the Army to serve as a natural blast shield for private properties in the
                 event of an accident involving munitions at the Sunny Point Military Ocean Terminal. The Carolina
                 Beach State Park is owned and operated bv the State of North Caroiina as a means of providing public
                 access to a natural coastal environment and' the waters of the Cape Fear River. Snows Cut, a component
                 of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterwav, has its banks controlled by a spoil deposition easement owned
                 by the US Army Corps of Engineers; ihis easement takes precedence over any other possible use of the
                 property.

                 All three of these areas service as important wildlife habitats and as permanent open space areas
                 within the town. Because of their aesthetic and recreational significance, the Town supports
                 maintenance of these areas in their natural condition or with limited development for recreational
                 purposes.

                 8.1.4 K Sunny Point Buffer Zone
                 The Buffer Zone is owned and controlled by the U.S. Department of the Army to serve as a natural blast
                 shield for private properties in the event of an accident involving munitions at the Sunny Point
                 Military Ocean Terminal. Because of the importance of this area for wildlife habitat and as permanent
                 open space, the Town supports maintenance of this area in its natural condition with development
                 limited solely to additional recreational facilities. Area-wide prohibition of off-road vehicles and
                 stepped up enforcement against illegal dumping in this area shall be supported.

                 8,1*4 L Carolina Beach Stale Park
                 Carolina Beach State Park is owned and operated by the State of North Carolina as a means of
                 providing public access to a natural coastal environment and to the waters of the Cape Fear River.
                 Because of the importance of this area for wildlife habitat, nature study, and as permanent open space,
                 the Town supports maintenance of this area in its natural condition or with limited development for
                 recreational purposes.

                 8.1.4 M Snow's Cut (AIWW) Right of Way and Spoil Area
                 Snow's Cut, a component of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW), has its banks controlled by a
                 spoil deposition easement owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; this easement takes precedence
                 over any other possible use of this property. Because of the importance of this area for wildlife
                 habitat, permanent open space, and potential placement of spoil materials, the Town supports
                 maintenance of this area in its natural condition or with limited use for recreational purposes.

                 8.1.5 Protection of Potable Water Supply

                 The Town of Carolina Beach depends upon the Castle Hayne Aquifer as its sole source of potable water.
                 This deep aquifer receives little recharge from the Carolina Beach soil system and underline geologic


                                                                Page 8-12






                                                              Polic), Statements


                  strata. While there are few development practices or regulations affecting land use that can have an
                  effect on the long-term quality of fresh water from this aquifer, the Town's main concern for the long-
                  term viability of the aquifer is to properly manage, space, and pump the well system serving the town.
                  (Also see Section 6.2.2, regarding the Town's drinking water supply system).

                  8.1.1 Protection 01 Potable Water Supply
                  The Town shall work with other appropriate governmental. bodies, namely New Hanover County and
                  Wilmington, to provide for a continued pure supply of potable water, particularly from the Castle
                  Hayne aquifer. The Town shall also conserve it's groundwater resources for longevity through proper
                  management of its system of wells, and bv the encouragement of water conservation practices, including
                  measures which can be taken in construction of new structures. These measures shall be designed to help
                  the Town of Carolina Beach get through the potential water crisis of the next five years.

                  8.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants

                  Carolina Beach's long range annexation plans are to extend water and sewer services to all areas within
                  the corporate limits and extraterritorial jurisdiction not currently served by water and sewer. The Town
                  therefore does not allow package sewage treatment plants and septic systems within the corporate
                  limits of Carolina Beach.


                  8.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants
                  All new developments are required to connect to the Town's central sewer system. Package sewage
                  treatment plants and septic systems are not allowed within the corporate limits of Carolina BeacE

                  8.1.7 Stormwater Runoff


                  Noted North Carolina hydrogeologist, Ralph C. Heath, when speaking about the coastal area of
                  North Carolina, has stated that the ..."construction ... of multi story condominiums, motels and other
                  vacation facilities with their parking lots, tennis courts and swimming pools, is resulting in the
                  creation of large expanses of impervious areas. Disposing of the runoff from these areas during storms in
                  a manner that is not detrimental to the adjacent sounds and ocean is among the most pressing water
                  management problems now confronting the developer and the public officials in this area." (News:
                  Water Resources Research Institute of the University of North Carolina, November 1986).

                  The construction of large, impervious services associated with commercial and residential development
                  accelerates the rate at which rain waters reach the estuarine sound  vaters. This rapid influx of fresh
                  water can change the natural salinity of the sound water and disrupt the biological balance of the
                  natural svstem. The water can also carry higher than normal levels of nutrients and other
                  biodegra@able materials that can create'excessive oxygen demand for decomposing the material.

                  Much of what is described above can be observed in the continued redevelopment of the Town of
                  Carolina Beach. While it may be too late to return the estuarine waters of the Town back to a pristine
                  condition, the Town of Carolina Beach continues to seek methods by which storm water runoff from new
                  developments can be minimized. The Town intends to give greater attention to this element of
                  development plan review in the future, with the intent of more carefully controlling stormwater runoff
                  into the estuary.

                  8.1.7 Storm Water Runoff
                  (1) Future developments must continue to meet all local, State and federal stormwater runoff regulations
                  as applicable to the individual development.
                  (2) The Town encourages the use of 'best management practices" to minimize the release of pollutants to
                  coastal waters through stormwater runoff. Examples include using pervious or semi-pervious materials,
                  such as turfstone or gravel for driveways and walks, retaining natural vegetation along marsh and


                                                                  Page 8-13



                                                            Policy Statements

			      waterfront areas to retain its natural filtering properties, and allowing stormwater to percolate into
                        the ground rather than discharging it directly to coastal waters.

                        8.1.8 A Marinas                                                                                                                                                                        8.1.8 A Marinas


                        Due to its strategic location at the confluence of Myrtle Grove Sound the, Intracoastal Waterway,
                        Snows Cut, the Cape Fear River and Carolina Beach Inlet, the Town of Carolina Beach has been a
                        natural draw for marina development. As a result, the sound and intracoastal waters adjacent to
                        Carolina Beach, like those of Wrightsville Beach, are some of the most congested waters for boating
                        the entire coastal area of North Carolina.


                        Recent trends at Carolina Beach have included the displacement of general commercial marinas by
                        large marinas associated with new, landside condominium developments. These large marinas increase
                        demand for landside parking spaces and cause increased traffic on streets leading to the water's edge.
                        For these reasons, the Town wishes to more carefully monitor the further development of marinas so
                        that their size and location are reasonably related to the carrying capacity of the waters they serve
                        and the near-shore lands they impact. Future marina development may also be influenced by the
                        preparation of a water use and harbor management plan for Myrtle Grove Sound.

                        8.1.8 A Marinas
                        To protect water quality, conserve limited public trust waters, keep boat traffic within the ability of
                        area waters to absorb it safely, and minimize land side traffic congestion and parking demands, the
                        number and size of new marinas at Carolina Beach shall henceforth be permitted only in accordance
                        with the reasonable carrying capacity of area waters and near shore lands.  Carrying capacity shall be
                        determined by land side traffic volumes on area streets, the sufficiency of parking, and by competing
                        water use demands as identified in a Town "water use plan".
        
                        8.1.8 B Floating Home Development

                        According to CAMA Guidelines, a floating structure is ..."any structure, not a boat, supported by a means
                        of flotation designed to be used without a permanent foundation, which is used or intended for human
                        habitation or commerce. A structure will be considered a floating structure when it is inhabited or used
                        for commercial purposes for more than 30 days in any one location. A boat may be deemed a floating
                        structure when its means of propulsion has been removed or rendered inoperative and it contains at least
                        200 square feet of living space area."

                        Floating home development is viewed by the residents of Carolina Beach as a waterborne activity
                        which permanently "consumes" public trust waters which are already in short supply. Potential
                        environmental and aesthetic problems associated with floating structures are also deemed to far
                        outweigh any potential economic benefits for the town.

                        8.1.8 B Floating Home Development
                        Due the limited surface area of public trust waters for use and enjoyment by the public, floating homes
                        shall not be permitted within the jurisdicional waters of Carolina Beach.
                                                  
                        8.1.8 C Moorings and Mooring Fields

                        According to CAMA Use Standards, a "free standing mooring" is any means to attach a ship, boat,
                        vessel, floating structure or other watercraft to a stationary underwater device, mooring buoy, buoyed
                        anchor, or piling (as long as the piling is not associated with an existing or proposed pier, dock, or
                        boathouse). According to CAMA Standards, free standing moorings shall be permitted under only two
                        circumstances (1) to riparian property owners within their riparian corridors or (2) to any applicant



                                                                                       Page 8-14


                                                                        Policy Statements


                     proposing to locate a mooring buoy consistent with a water use plan that may be incorporated into
                     either the local zoning or land use plan.

                     At Carolina Beach, concern for the limited amount of public trust waters available for public enjoyment
                     also creates a major disincentive for additional free standing moorings. At the same time, residents and
                     merchants attending public meetings for the land use plan noted that the absence of convenient dockage
                     serving transient boaters using the Intracoastal Waterway could have the effect of a significant
                     economic opportunity lost. Until such time as the Town of Carolina Beach undertakes the
                     developmental of a water use plan, and the issue can be addressed in a comprehensive manner,
                     additional free standing moorings will not be approved. However, when such a plan is developed,
                     there should be an attempt to incorporate proper transient moorings and dockage for the use of the
                     traveling boating public.

                     8.1.8 C Moorings and Mooring Fields
                     Due the limited surface area of public trust waters for use and enjoyment by the public, freestanding
                     private moorings of any kind shall be discouraged within the public trust waters of Carolina Beach.
                     However, the Town shall support public mooring buoys designed to serve currently unmet needs of
                     transient boaters who could contribute substantially to the local economy.


                     8.1.8 D Dry Stack Storage

                     Dry stack storage facilities require substantial amounts of associated parking, are significant traffic
                     generators, and contribute to boating congestion on already intensively used waters. Also, residents
                     attending public meetings for the land use plan noted that the dry stack storage facilities contributed
                     little to the aesthetics of Carolina Beach and generally served day visitors to the community who had
                     little interest in the community at Carolina Beach or in spending dollars- For these reasons, the
                     expansion and development of additional dry stack storage facilities at Carolina Beach will not be
                     approved.

                     8.1.8 D Dry Stack Storage
                     Due to their unsightliness and the traffic congestion associated with such facilities, dry stack facilities
                     shall be prohibited at Carolina Beach.                   


                     8.1.8 E Commercial Fishing Operations

                     The fishing industry of Carolina Beach consists of two distinct components-commercial fishing and
                     sports fishing. Each of these components faces a very different future. Due to a number of factors,
                     including reduced catches and expensive dockage, the commercial fishing industry is in a general
                     decline across much of North Carolina: Carolina Beach is no exception to that state wide trend.

                     8.1.8 E Commercial Fishing Operations
                     Due to the important role of commercial and recreational fishing to the economy and ambient character
                     of Carolina Beach, the Town shall encourage and support commercial fishing operations and sports
                     fishing operations, provided that such operations meet all applicable development standards and are
                     otherwise consistent with the policies of this plan.                                                                                                                                      

                     8.1.9 Industrial Impact on Fragile Areas

                     The only industrial area of Carolina Beach is located on the west side of Dow Road and east of the
                     Sunny Point Buffer Area and Carolina Beach State Park. This relatively small industrial area has a
                     natural buffer area between the site and the Cape Fear River by virtue of the Sunny Point Buffer Area
                     and Carolina Beach State Park.




                                                                             Page 8-15



                                                                                       Policy Statements


                            The Town's policy shall continue to be to encourage land use compatibility between the
                            industrial/ commercial sectors and residential/ commercial sectors and residential sectors through use of
                            the Town's Zoning Ordinance.

                            8.1.9 Industrial Impacts On Fragile Areas
                            New light industrial development, of a scale and nature suited to a small, fragile coastal community,
                            may be approved on appropriate sites, provided that impacts related to stormwater runoff, traffic
                            generation, and other factors can be properly mitigated.        
	
                            8.1.10 Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands

                            Carolina Beach does not have any islands in its planning jurisdiction that would be feasible for future
                            development under current State and federal permit regulation.

                            8.1.10 Development Of Sound And Estuarine System Islands
                            Carolina Beach does not have any islands in its planning jurisdiction that would be feasible for future
                            development under current State and Fdederal permit regulations. The Town does support, however, all
                            County and State efforts to preserve Masonboro Island in its natural state.
                                  
                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                      
                            8.1.11 Development Within Areas That Might Be Susceptible to Sea Level Rise

                            There has been considerable discussion and debate over the past decade or more about the influence of
                            sea level rise on beach and shore line erosion along North Carolina's coast. The most commonly held
                            viewpoint is that gradual sea level rise is causing the barrier Islands of the North Carolina coast to
                            migrate landward. Individual oceanfront land owners experience this migration as "beach erosion".
                            Generally, the Town supports a policy of regular beach renourishment as the most practical means of
                            balancing the public's interest in the beach shoreline with the protection of private property
                            investments. In the absence of renourishment, the Town's next policy of choice is for relocation of
                            threatened structures.


                            8.1.11 Restriction Of Development Within Areas That Might Be Susceptible To Sea Level Rise
                            The Town shall monitor the work of State and Federal agencies conducting research on sea level rise
                            and its effect on coastal areas. The Town shall consider any State and Federal policies prior to
                            formulating specific local policies regarding sea level rise; specifically, development within areas up
                            to 5 feet above sea level.                                                                                            
                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                           
                            
                                         
                                                                                                                
                            

                            8.1.12 Upland Excavation for Marina Basins

                            As the immediate coastal area of New Hanover County, indeed the State of North Carolina, has
                            become more intensively developed for shoreline uses, natural sites for deep water marinas have
                            become increasingly scarce. State regulations which discourage or prohibit the destruction of wetland
                            habitats, primary nursery areas and other important, environmentally sensitive estuarine areas have
                            made opportunities for new marina developments difficult at best. As a result, marina facilities carved
                            out of upland areas have occasionally been viewed as a viable option. In the case of Carolina Beach,
                            however, the value of "upland" real estate is generally too costly to justify excavating such land for a
                            marina basin. In addition, previously mentioned concerns about parking demands and traffic generation
                            associated with any form of marina development cause the Town to discourage such developments.

                            8.1.12 Upland Excavation For Marina Basins
                            Due to the limited amount of developable land at Carolina Beach, the Town shall not support the 
                            excavation of upland areas for marina basins.             




                                                                                             Page 8-16
 






                                                                                Policy Statements


                        8.1-13 Damaging of Existing Marshes by Bulkhead Installation

                        Myrtle Grove Sound and the municipal dock facilities are considered a major asset for tourism,
                        commercial and recreational fisherman, and boaters. During the planning process there was much
                        discussion regarding the long term use and development along the shorelines of Myrtle Grove Sound.
                        Regardless of the development forms, only water dependent uses should be allowed and any bulkheads
                        should be constructed landward of any significant marshland or marsh grass fringe in compliance with
                        15A NCAC 7H.0208(7) (B).

                        It is also Carolina Beach policy to prohibit bulkheading and filling of the Town's lakefront around
                        Carolina Beach Lake. Re-establishment of wetlands is to be strongly encouraged. Any bulkheading
                        operations must comply with all local, State and federal regulations.

                        8.1.13 Marsh Damage From Bulkhead Installation
                        Bulkheading and filling of the Town's shorefront forward of the mean high water mark along the
                        Town's estuarine shorelines shall be prohibited. Re-establishment of wetlands is to be strongly
                        encouraged. Any bulkheading operations must comply with all local, State and Federal regulations.
                        No private bulkheading of any kind shall be permitted around Carolina Beach Lake.                                                
                                    
                        
                       
                                            
                                                                                                       
                         
                        

                        8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management Measures Designed to Address Them

                        The majority of the Resource Protection Policies stated above, including but not limited to policies
                        concerning Areas of Environmental Concern, marina development, and stormwater runoff, are designed
                        to curtail or halt the further degradation of water quality of sound and beach waters at Carolina
                        Beach. The Town continually seeks to develop new management practices and measures to implement
                        improvements in water quality.

                        8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management Measures Designed to Address Them
                        The Town shall continue to seek improved marina management and stormwater runoff standards which
                        will protect and enhance the water quality of the estuarine system including, but not limited to the
                        waters of Myrtle Grove Sound, Snows Cut, and the Cape Fear River.
                                            
                                                                                        
                                        
                                   
                        
                                                                         
                                                                  
                        Resource Production and Management Policies

                        820 Resource Production and Management

                        Due to the predominantly developed, urban nature of much of the Town of Carolina Beach, resource
                        production and management of the land resource, in the traditional sense of those words, is not really
                        applicable at Carolina Beach. Real estate values are sufficiently high so as to preclude the use of
                        available land for significant agricultural, commercial forest lands, and mineral production areas.
                        Nonetheless, the estuarine system within which the town is located is one of the most "productive"
                        ecosystems on earth. For this reason the Town has committed itself to participating in no activity nor
                        approving of any activity which would seriously damage the long-term productive capability of the
                        estuarine system.

                        8.2.0     Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource Production and Management
                        Carolina Beach is located in the midst of one of the most biologically productive ecosystems on earth-
                        estuarine waters and marshes. The Town shall take no action nor approve of any action which would
                        seriously harm the long term viability and productivity of this ecosystem.
       
                                     
                         

                              
                        
                                                                                  

                        8.2.1 Productive Agricultural Lands
                        Not applicable.

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                                                                                                      Policy Statements




                              8.2.2 Commercial Forest Lands
					Not applicable, but see policy 8.1.4 B on Maritime Forests, Tree Cover and Landscaping, generally

                              8.2.3   Mineral Production Areas-Existing and Potential
                              Mineral production and extraction activities are not consistent with the limited, valuable land and                                                                                                                   
                              water resources of Carolina Beach. Mineral production and extraction activities, excepting those
					directly related to channel maintenance and beach renourishment, shall not be permitted within the
					planning jurisdiction of Carolina Beach.
  
                              8.2.4 Fisheries Resources (Commercial and Recreational)

                              The fishing industry in Carolina Beach consists of two distinct components commercial fishing and
                              sports fishing. Due to a number of factors, including reduced catches and expensive dockage, operation
                              of a commercial fleet is growing more and more expensive. On the other hand, the sports fishing
                              industry in Carolina Beach has had continued growth which should be further enhanced as interest in
                              the Town continues to grow.

                              8.2.4 Fisheries Resources (Commercial and Recreational)
					The Town will support State and federal regulations to insure the water quality of local waters that
                              support both commercial and recreational fishing.                                                                                             

                              8.2.5 Off-Road Vehicles


                              Carolina Beach policy is to prohibit off-road vehicles on the beach strand-the area between the
                              barrier dunes and water. The North End of the beach (outside the corporate limits of the Town,
                              beginning at a point north of the approximate eastward extension of Snow's Cut) does not come under
                              this policy. Enforcement of vehicular traffic at the North End is regulated by the New Hanover County
                              Sheriff's Department. The Town appreciates the efforts of the Sheriffs Department to control traffic at
                              the North End and supports their on-going presence there.

                              8.2.5 Off Road Vehicles
                              Off-road vehicles (with the exception of emergency vehicles or other vehicles specifically permitted
					by the Town) are not allowed on the Beach Strand within the corporate limits of Carolina Beach.
                                                        
                              8.2.6 Development Impacts

                              All of the town's major development impact issues, such as the intensification of residential
                              development, management of stormwater runoff and marina expansions, are covered under specific
                              policy headings in various parts of this plan. The table of contents provides a means of quickly
                              identifying the location of policies concerning particular development issues. Nonetheless, this
                              approach to addressing development impacts points up the need to consider the "cumulative impacts"
                              of a whole host of development activities occurring simultaneously at Carolina Beach. It is ultimately
                              the combined effect of all development and redevelopment activities that together define the impact
                              on the area's natural resources, particularly -water quality. The Town, therefore, recognizes the need to
                              address each new development or redevelopment activity on a case-by-case basis to minimize the
                              cumulative effect of incremental impacts.

                              8.2.6 Development Impacts
                              New development and redevelopment activities shall not be permitted whcih would act to degrade the
					quality of natural and scenic resources at Carolina Beach, diminish the small town character of the
					community, or create an adverse relationship between development types of incompatiable scale, design,
					or land use.                                                                                                                                                      


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                                                            Policy Statements



                 Economic and Community Development Policies

                 8.3.0 Economic and Community Growth and Development

                 This policy section is concerned with those issues associated with the development and redevelopment
                 of the Town of Carolina Beach. Among the several issues discussed are the types of development to be
                 encouraged, the density of development, provision of public facilities to serve development, the urban
                 growth pattern desired, local support for State and Federal programs influencing development, and the
                 provision of access to public open space and land and water recreational areas.

                 The Town's overall policy statement in this subject area calls for the continued enhancement of the
                 Town in the direction of a small scale, pedestrian-friendly, and family-oriented community.

                 A commitment to this policy implies follow through on a broad range of policies and actions. For
                 example, the Town will take steps to discourage large increases in population that might be associated
                 with larger or more intensive multi family developments. Also, rather than allowing for more
                 intensive development and its associated increases in stormwater runoff, parking demand, and traffic
                 congestion, the Town will act in support of a continued emphasis on single family and duplex residences
                 and appropriate neighborhood-oriented and local businesses. At the same time, the Town will also
                 work to preserve and enhance parks and natural areas within and around the community.

                 Implementation actions in furtherance of this policy will require a reexamination of the Town's zoning
                 ordinance and building standards to encourage building forms in keeping with the existing character of
                 development at the beach. Current building heights, in particular, should be reviewed as to there
                 appropriateness in neighborhoods where the predominant building height is clearly less than 40 feet.

                 8.3.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic & Community Growth & Development
                 The Town of Carolina Beach shall work to diversify the local economy while at the same time
		     protecting the natural and man-made environment and improving the area as a more attractive
		     community in which to work, live and play. Economic and community development initiatives which
		     capitalize upon and enhance the pedestrian oriented, small town character exemplified by the Town
		     boardwalk and marina area, and by the relatively small scale of most residential and commercial
		     development in the Town shall be supported. Social emphasis shall be given to those types of
		     businesses which also foster a family-oriented community and resort market niche.
		        
                 Section 8.3.0 A Growth of Town's jurisdiction

                 In recent years, the Town has prepared, or had prepared for it, various studies regarding the feasibility
                 of annexations north and south of the Town's existing corporate limits. An annexation report prepared
                 by Municipal Engineering Services Company PA of Garner, North Carolina in December 1990 evaluated
                 the feasibility of three distinct annexation areas: the "northern annexation area," the "Wilmington
                 Beach" annexation area and the "Hanby Beach" annexation area. This annexation report and several
                 subsequent studies pointed out that additional annexations to the Town's corporate limits would be
                 dependent upon significant improvements in the Town's water supply and sewage collection and
                 treatment systems.

                 In considering the merits of these annexation areas, the Town must carefully weigh the capital costs
                 involved in upgrading the Town's systems. At the same time, these evaluations have brought to light
                 certain deficiencies in the Town's water distribution and sewage collection systems which must be
                 addressed regardless of annexation. Annexations completed in 1992 involved mostly spot annexations
                 for developments such as Atlantic Towers, Casa del Playa, Pelican Watch, Sea Colony, etc. All


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                                                              Policy Statements


                  presently have water and sewer service. For the time being, the Town has adopted a course of action
                  calling for corrections to existing water and sewer systems before considering additional annexations. At
                  the same time, however, the Town continues to express its interest in annexing Wilmington-Hanby
                  Beaches. Budget allocations have been set aside for this purpose.

                  8.3.0 A Growth of Town's Jurisdiction
                  The Town shall periodically evaluate the costs and benefits of annexing additional areas into the
			Town. Before considering such annexations, first priority shall be to addressing infrastructure and
			service needs within the existing corporate limits, prior to taking on additional responsibilities.
            
                  Section 8.3.0 B Building Height

                  Discussions by the Town Planning Board regarding building height considerations indicated a general
                  consensus that Carolina Beach should seek to retain its original character as a "low profile," family-
                  oriented beach community. As building heights increase, the effective density on any given lot also
                  increases. Such density increases, in turn, have the effect of increasing demand for water supply, sewage
                  treatment, parking, traffic volumes, and solid waste management. Given the current limitations of the
                  Town's water supply and waste water treatment systems, efforts to limit additional increases in
                  building height and density are well justified. The policy adopted by the Town reflects a general
                  commitment to relatively low profile buildings with exceptions based on tradeoffs between additional
                  building height and additional building setback.

                  8.3.0 B Building Height
                  The Town shall support and implement a maximum building height throughout the community of
			thirty-five (35) feet, measured from the average ground plane of the lot to the top of the celing plate
			of the highest habitable floor. Exceptions to this height shall require an additional one foot setback
			for each additional one foot of height.                            

                  8.3.1 Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries

                  The Town of Carolina Beach for a variety of reasons, has traditionally not received nor pursued
                  significant levels of industrial development. Chief among those reasons were for example, a lack of
                  suitable extensive areas of land at reasonable prices, and the general incompatibility of industrial
                  development with the desired vision for the future of Carolina Beach by most town residents. In
                  addition, the town's growing position as a "bedroom community" for the greater Wilmington urbanizing
                  area allows industries to be located elsewhere in southeastern North Carolina on lands more suited for
                  such use. Currently, any industrial uses would have to be located in the 1-1 district of the Town's zoning
                  ordinance; the district is located adjacent to Dow Road and east of the Sunny Point Buffer Area and
                  Carolina Beach State Park.


                  8.3.1 Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to Such Industries
                  To diversify the economy of the Town, and to provide for desirable wages to community residents, the            
			Town shall be open to limited, appropriate, light industrial development in locations as allowed for
  			under the Town's Zoning Ordinance, and that will do no harm to the fragile coastal environment.

                  Section 8.3.2 Provision of Services to Development

                  Carolina Beach Town officials understand the importance of providing needed infrastructure such as
                  water, sewer, roads and recreational amenities to sustain beneficial economic growth. Ongoing efforts to
                  upgrade the Town's water and sewer systems reflect a continuing commitment on the part of the Town to
                  provide these critical infrastructure services. At the same time, the Town believes that additions or
                  expansions of the Town's public facilities or services made necessary by new or expanding development



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                                                                                           Policy Statements


                              should be paid for by that new or expanding development. The Town's position is that existing residents
                              and property owners should not be burdened with the expense of subsidizing new development.

                              Also, regarding the future provision of municipal services to the Wilmington/Hanby Beach area, the
                              Town recognizes that once municipal water and sewer services are in place serving that area, there will
                              be pressure for an intensification of uses and the scale of development in that part of Carolina Beach.
                              The Town must therefore plan ahead for the additional impacts of such increased development in this
                              area, including concerns for additional storm water runoff, additional traffic generated, additional
                              solid waste generated, demand for recreational facilities, etc.

                              8.3.2 Provision of Services to Development
                              The Town will amke all municipal facilities to existing and future
					development/redevelopment, provided that such development is compatible with the growth and
					development objectives embodied in this land us paln, and that all development pays for the growth
					impacts it causes. Connection to water and sewer lines will be at the expense of the developer. If water
					or sewer facility upgrades or expansions would be required for new development, the needed
					improvements would be at the expense of the developer.
                                                                                       
                              8.3.2 A Potable Water Supply
                              The Town requires all new development to tie into its system for potable water supply and prohibits
					individual wells for potable use. The Town shall continue to take measures to ensure that the water
					supply system is adequate to meet the needs of Town residents and businesses. Special emphasis shall
					be given to this policy during the next two to five years, to avert a potential water crisis concerning the
					capacity of the Town's well system to serve increased pumping demands.                                    

                              8.3.2 B Wastewater Treatment and Disposal
                              All new developments are required to connect to the Town's central sewer system. Package sewage                
					treatment plants and septic systems are not allowed within the corporate limits of Carolina Beach.
					The Town shall continue to take measures (including on-going waste water treatment plant expansions)
					to ensure that the waste water treatment system is adequate to meet needs of Town residents and
					businesses.

                              8.3.2 C Solid Waste Disposal
                              The Town supports measures to recycle and reduce the amount of solid waste generated by all permanent
					residents and businesses, as well as vistors to the Beach.

                              Section 8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired

                              The Urban growth pattern at Carolina Beach is, at once, one of the Town's greatest and worst features.
                              The traditional core of the community, for example, contains the historic boardwalk and municipal
                              marina area. These two amenities, accentuated by a pedestrian-oriented character and existing and
                              potential charm, are unique to Carolina Beach on the coast of North Carolina. On the other hand, the
                              traffic bottleneck created by these two areas-as visitors and residents alike seek to go to the heavily
                              developed north end of the beach-is a significant problem.

                              Similarly, the economic benefits of commercial development along Lake Park Boulevard must be
                              balanced against the unsightliness of strip commercialization, signage and expansive parking lots. Any
                              policies which address this issue must satisfy several complimentary objectives: (1) preserve the
                              integrity of residential neighborhoods and minimize cut-through traffic, (2) preserve the historic and
                              cultural significance of the boardwalk/marina area in the middle of town, (3) avoid increasing
                              development density in locations where the traffic cannot be handled or where storm water runoff
                              problems are evident, (4) encourage a mixture of uses in the area between the traditional central
                              business district and the town's primary residential neighborhoods, (5) seek to enhance the image of


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                                  Policy Statements 

the community along US 421 (Lake Park Blvd.) by controlling strip development, turning movements, 
ugly signage, and other factors.

8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired 
The Town shall support a small town growth pattern which reinforces the community's existing 
commercial areas and protects existing residential areas from inappropriately designed and scaled non-
residential development.  The compact, pedestrian oriented nature of the Town's historic center- the
boardwalk/amusement area and boat basin area-shall receive special diligence in this regard.

Section 8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired
In keeping with the general vision staement for the community, including preservation of the small 
town character and quality of the natural and built environment, the Town has elected to discourage
the development of additional large multi-family complexes and high rise structures at Carolina 
Beach.  In contrast, the Town wishes to encourage a mixture of medium density single family 
development and small scale multi-family development in a proportion that maintains the current 
percentage of single family/multi family units. 

8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired
(1) The Town will encourage medium density (6,000 to 10,000 sq ft. lots) single family homes as the 
predominant housing form at Carolina Beach.  Construction of additional small scale multi-family 
projects shall be allowed to occur such that the current percentage of multifamily units relative to 
single family units is held constant. 
(2) The Town will discourage further high density and or "intense" development including large
multifamily complexes, condominiums, high-rise structures, large hotels/motels. Single family "mini-
castles" should be permitted in locations where their scale and mass is compatible with other structures
in their vicinity, or with the overall vision of a particular neighborhood. 

Note: Within the Town's existing zoning ordinance, the RA-6A residential district allows up to 29 units per acre and the RA-5A
district allows up to 39 units per acre.  See Implementation Action 8.3.4(2) for recommended changes to the zoning ordinance in 
keeping with the intent of Policy 8.3.4 above. 

Section 8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Desired
Town residents attending public meetings for the land use plan voiced a consistent concern about the
image and character of development coming in along US 421 (Lake Park Blvd.) into town.  Comments 
regarding commercial strip development, franchise type building facades, neon signs, a general lack of 
landscaping, a proliferation of banners and a lack of sidewalks were noted.  Support for discouraging
this type of development along the town's main entryway corridor was among the strongest of any issue 
facing the community.  The Town's commercial development policies reflect a desire for appropriately
scaled and designed businesses serving year-round residents and visitors in locations appropriate to 
their size.

8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Desired
(1) The Town will encourage new and expanding businesses that provide goods, services, and family 
oriented entertainment to year round residents and visitors.  Examples include appropriately scaled and 
designed grocery stroes, drug stores, restaurants, and amusements.  Businesses locating in or near the 
boardwalk and marina/boat basin area shall be pedestrian oriented, while those locating along US 
421, away from the town center, may be more automobile oriented. 
(2) Architectuarl design which is not in keeping with the character of a small, coastal community 
atmosphere shall be discoraged.
                     
                                       Page 8-22


                                     Policy Statements

(3) The Town shall continually seek to strengthen its signage controls so that as the community grows, 
additional signage will not overwhelm the streetscape, thereby detracting from the image of the town, 
and devaluing its attractiveness as a place in which to live or vacation.

Section 8.3.6 Redevelopment, Including Relocation of Threatened Structures
Windshield surveys conducted in support of this land use plan revealed that Carolina Beach does not 
have a concentration of substandard housing in any one part of the community.  This does not diminish, 
however, the concerns of many town residents about tose properties which are not being kept up and 
which are a blight on the neighborhood in which they are located.  Discussions at the Planning Board
and Town Council level revealed the level of difficulty in forcing compliance with minimum housing 
code standards.  While efforts to enforce necessary building improvements should continue, the 
long-term solution to this problem would appear to be market driven.  That is, as the economic 
conditions in Carolina Beach continue to prosper over the coming years, it is hoped that the value of 
the real estate will eventually cause these building eyesores to be replaced by higher and better uses.
Regarding the relocation of structures threatened by wave action or shoreline erosion, the Town 
supports the relocation of structures ranther than trying to stop the natural migration of the ocean
shoreline. 
Finally, while not specifically related to shoreline erosion, Town officials and residents alike have an 
ongoing interst in the continued revitalization of the boardwalk area.  For discussion of the Town's 
policies and commitment to the boardwalk, see Section 8.3.13

8.3.6 Redevelopment, Including Relocation of Threatened Structures
(1) Relocation of structures endangered or damaged by wave action and or shoreline erosion is 
encouraged. Redevelopment of damaged or destroyed structures will be permitted by the Town according 
to Town ordinances, provided all setback and other CAMA requirements are met.
(2) The Town shall encourage owners of run-down buildings to rehabilitate their structures.  If the 
structure is not historic in nature or part of an assembly or streeetscape of interrelated buildings, 
clearance of the strcture at owner cost may be required in accordance with the State minimum 
housing code, public safety has related laws.

Also see Boardwalk for redevelopment initiatives related to that area.

8.3.7 Commitment to State and Federal Programs
CAMA Guidelines suggest that local governments address the level of local commitment to State and 
Federal programs including items such as erosion control, public access, highway improvements, 
dredging and other related government activities. 
The Town of Carolina Beach acknowledges and supports applicable Satate and Federal programs which 
work to improve the quality of life of town residents and protect the quality of the natural 
environment.  The Twon attempst sto cooperate and assist in the implementation of these programs 
whenever possible.  Federal and State assistance programs of most importance to Carolina Beach 
include the State's beach access program, State and Federal channel maintenance and inlet projects, 
beach renourishment, and bridge and road improvement programs.
It is worth noting that for each Federal or State program mentioned above, both local area residents as
well as residents from outside the community are benefited. This is consistent with what the Town 
believes State and Federal programs should do.

                                       Page 8-23






























                                                                                                                                      is

























                      believes State and Federal programs should do.



                                                                                 Page 8-23
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                                           Policy Statements

8.3.7 Commitment to State and Federal Programs, Generally 
While there are a number of State and Federal programs which the Town supports, those that are of 
special interest to the Town of Carolina Beach include the State Coastal Area Management Act, the
State's beach access program, beach renourishment and channel maintenance programs, and bridge, road 
and bikeway improvement programs.

Section 8.3.8 A Assistance to Channel Maintenance, Including Interstate Waterways
Channel manitenance of areas such as the Cape Fear River, Snow's Cut, Carolina Beach Inlet, Myrtle
Grove Sound and the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway is vitally important to the quality of life and 
tourism based economy of Carolina Beach.  Continued maintenance of these waterways for commercial 
and recreational boating is a very high priority for Town officials and residents alike.

8.3.8A Assistance to Channel Maintenance, Including Interstate Waterways
(1) The Town supports State and Federal efforts to dredge areas along the Intracoastal Waterway and 
other major bodies of water in the Carolina Beach area to provide safe access for commercial and 
recreational boating. Spoil will be placed in approved spoil areas. 
(2) Town officials will work with the Army Corps of Engineers, other State and federal agencies, and 
with other local government to ensure continued dredging and maintenance of channels and rivers as 
needed to keep these facilities open to navigation. The provision of borrow or spoil ares and easements
for work will be determined on a case-by-case basis.  However, the Town would prefer that known spoil 
areas with existing easements for such purposes be used. 
(3) Town officials will maintain contact with congressional representateives and federal officials as 
dredging or other channel maintenance operations are needed, and will continue to assist local users of 
these facilities as feasible.

Section 8.3.8B Beach Maintenance
Beach maintenance and renourishment is a continuing major concern for the Town of Carolina Beach.
Concerns that the federal government may be seeking to pull out of its long-standing commitment to 
beach renourishment are quite real.  Town officials have indicated that current methods of reaising
revenue locally, including the room tax are grossly insufficient to generate the amount of revenue
necessary to support a regular beach renoursihment program.  The Town will therefore do everything 
within its means to maintain a cooperative state/federal/local effort to determine, finance and 
implement beach renourishment.  Further, Town officials have indicated a willingness to be a testing
site for new prototypical research projects regarding beach maintenance, protection and renourishment.

8.3.8B Beach Maintenance
(1) The Town supports all State, Federal, and inter-local efforts to determine, finance and implement
environmentally and aesthetically acceptable methods of beach renourishment consistent with locally 
adopted policies. Innovative approaches to beach preservaation and renourishment shall be supported, 
including the testing of new prototypical research projects at Carolina Beach.
(2) The Town is committed to maintaining its man made beach, dune system and vegetation as close
environmental substitutes for the natural systems which protect undeveloped coastal areas.  This 
precludes encroachment of development upon these systems.  The Town, therefore, supports non-
structural means of stabilizing the ocean shoreline except for temporary structures (i.e.sandbags)
erected to protect property form imminent danger of destruction due to erosion, as allowed by the CAMA
program.          


                                        Page 8-24
 

                                Policy Statements

8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development
As defined in the CAMA Guidelines, "major energy facilities are those energy facilities that, because
of there size, magnitude and scope of impacts, have the potential to significantly effect the coastal
zone.  For the purposes of this definition, major energy facilities include but are not necessarily limited
to (1) all oil refining facilities, (2) natural gas terminals and associated facilities, (3) oil and gas
storage facilities storing more than 15 million gallons on a single site, (4) electric generating facilities
of 300 MGW or larger, (5) thermal energy generation, (6) pipe lines greater than 12 inches in diameter
that carry  crude petroleum, natural gas, or LNG-LPG or synthetic gas."
In the past two decades, proposals have been brought forward by energy companies to explore the outer 
continental shelf of the coast of North Carolina for natural gas and/or oil.  These proposals would 
typically be located approximately 25 miles or more off the coast with exploration occurring in deep
water.  offshore activity normally generates land-based support facilities and operations.  public input 
on this subject has demonstrated consistent strong local opposition to both off shore drilling and land-
based activities-not only in Carolina Beach but in most areas along the coast of North Carolina.

8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development
Due to the potential risk of oil spills, and related adverse impact on the Town's touris-based economy
the Town shall not support off-shore drilling for gas or oil and shall not permit facilities such as oil
refineries, storage facilities, or staging areas within the Town limits or Extraterritorial Planning 
Jurisdiction.

Section 8.3.10 Tourism 
Tourism continues to be the major driving force in the economy of Carolina Beach.  From day visitors to 
vacationing families that spend and extended period of time in the community, providing for the needs 
of these visitors is a high priority for the Town.  While shopping and amusement services are the
proper responsibility of the private sector, the Town also has a role in supproting tourism, primarily
through the provision of recreational facilities and public access to the beach and sound.  The Town can 
also be instrumental in facilitating a family-oriented atmosphere.  Town law enforcement officials can,
for example, be instrumental in helping to foster public behaviors which are supportive of a family-
oriented environment.  Finally, the Town can also be effective in helping to maintain and improve the
quality of the town's beach and area waters as major tourism assets.
One specific element of the tourism economy that Town officials would like to see encouraged is the
promotion of weekly stays(as opposed to day visitor stays) at Carolina Beach. It is felt that weekly 
stays have many positive effects on the nature of the tourism economy,including more dollars spent per
day per visitor, less traffic congestion, a greater likelihood of family visitors, etc. Town officials 
expressed their desire to support the Chamber ofCommerce in its initiatives in this direction.

8.3.10 Tourism
The Town of Carolina Beach shall seek to provide residents with a high quality of life and visitors to 
the areas with a quality tourist experience, including especially, factors related to public safety, 
community image and appearance, and atmosphere conducive to families, pedestrian and bicycle
oriented movement, convenient shopping and services, a quality beach strand, and fishable, swimmable
waters.  Businesses oriented toward higher per capita expenditures by visitors to the Twon shall be
especially encouraged.

Section 8.3.11 Public Beach and Waterfront Access
The Town of Carolina Beach provides a sizable number of public access points to both the beach and 
sound areas of the community.  Carolina Beach has 27 ocean access points that are provided by either

                                              Page 8-25










                                                                                            Policy StateMents


                           the Town or by New Hanover County. The Town also has estuarine access points off Canal Drive with
                           facilities ranging from bulkheaded grassed areas to gazebos over the water. Information on the specific
                           location and general nature of each of these access areas is provided on the Community Facilities Map
                           contained in this plan. Finally, in the development of this plan, town residents expressed a concern that
                           private development of soundside waterfront property for exclusive residential use has, in many
                           instances, effectively walled off the waterfront from the public. Recent development proposals to
                           replace former commercial marinas with private, residentially oriented marinas are an example of
                           this trend.


                           Carolina Beach has 20 public beach front access areas between Carolina Beach Avenue and the
                           Atlantic Ocean, with 10 access areas between Canal Drive and Myrtle Grove Sound. Each access
                           contains varying degrees of facilities ranging from boardwalks with some parking, to no facilities at
                           all. At the southern end of the beach, there are 7 county operated access areas to the beach plus a small
                           park with access to Carolina L                ake at Lake Park Blvd.

                           8.3.11 Public Beach and Waterfront Access
                                                                                                                  
                            (1) The Town shall secure financial assistance through the CAMA access program and any other programs to create, expand and improve public access to the beach front and estuarine waters of Carolina Beach. 
                                                                                                                                                                
                            (2) The Town shall avoid development of the soundside shoreline for exclusive residential development, thereby effectively walling off other Town residents and vistors from the public trust waters of the sound and intracoastal waterway. Public access, water oriented businessess, and mixed use developments with ground floor commercial shall be preferred along the soundside shoreline.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      
                                                                                                                                                      
                                                                                                                                                                                                     


                           Section 8.3.12 Parks and Recreation


                           In addition to the beach strand and water amenity offered by Myrtle Grove Sound, the Town of
                           Carolina Beach is blessed with a significant amount of park and open space land in and around the
                           corporate limits of the community. Foremost among these significant open space areas are the
                           undeveloped north end of Carolina Beach, Carolina Beach Town Lake, the Sunny Point Military
                           Terminal buffer zone, and Carolina Beach State Park. Because of these existing opportunities for
                           recreation and open space enjoyment, there is not significant pressure to create additional natural and
                           open space areas. However, increasing demands and pressures on the active use of the Town's existing
                           facilities (ball fields, gymnasiums, play equipment, etc.) call for continued attention to improvements
                           and enhancements to organized facilities. Among these enhancements has been the recent addition of a
                           major recreation center on the same site as the Town Hall Complex. This new facility offers significant
                           indoor recreational opportunities to town residents and visitors alike.

                           According to the Town's Director of the Parks and Recreation, the Town has no recreation plan and the
                           existing facilities are at "maximum buildout" until such time as additional land is acquired. Existing
                           facilities at Chappel Park cannot be expanded because they are located in the Sunny Point Buffer Zone.

                           8.3.12 Parks and Recreation
                           As the community of Carolina Beach grows nad annexes, the Town shall support a commensurate
                           increase in the development, maintenance and enhancement of its parks, open space and recreational 
  
                  facilities, including sound and ocean access facilites. The Town shall employ national and State
    recreation standards as the minimum for such facilities--for the benefit of both residents and vistors
alike. The Town shall explore alternative means of funding for parks facilities, including State and
federal grants, development impact fees, general obligation bonds, and other sources of revenue.
                                                   
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                
                                                                                                                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            



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                                                                                            Policy Statements



                             Section 8.3.13 Boardwalk Area


                             The boardwalk area of Carolina Beach is the cultural and historic heart of the community. Yet,
                             despite its central location and importance to the community, the boardwalk area continues to fall
                             short of its economic potential. Many officials, merchants and residents feel that the revitalization of
                             this area is critical in the Town's attempts to draw more visitors to the community. Comments received
                             at public meetings held for the land use plan focused on a continuing need to counteract the current
                             undesirable bar atmosphere and image of the boardwalk area. There is also an ongoing need to improve
                             the physical appearance and upkeep of boardwalk buildings and walkways and to provide a greater
                             sense of security and organization to the boardwalk-perhaps through identification and directional
                             maps at entryways to the boardwalk/marina area.

                             8.3.13 Boardwalk Area
                                                                                                           
                             Caroline Beach shall continue to work with merchants and property owners on efforts to revitalize the
                              Central Business and Amusement District/Broadwalk area. Town officials will also seek grants and/or
                              low-interest State or federal loans to revitalize the area. Any such revitalization efforts shall be in
                              keeping with the historic small scale, pedestrian oriented character of the area.
                                                                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                
                                                                                   
                                                                                                                                                                            
                                                                                                                                   
                                                             
                                                                                                           
                                                                                                                                                              
                                                                                    


                             Section 8.3.14 Marina/Boat Basin


                             Like the boardwalk area, the marina/boat basin in Carolina Beach has become an historic and
                             traditional public gathering place and unique point of focus within the community. Recent physical
                             improvements to the marina area, combined with a proliferation of charter boat services and cruise
                             boats, has created a picturesque focal point within the community and much dockside activity. Concerns
                             regarding the marina focus on not only how it looks or who uses it, but also on how it is to be most
                             effectively managed in the future. The Town's policy regarding the marina/boat basin suggests that the
                             marina might best be managed by a Town Council appointed marina authority. Such a marina
                             authority would then have the ability to lease the boat basin out to a private management company
                             while still retaining ownership and major control over significant policy issues.

                             8.3.14 Marina/Boat Basin
                             The Town shall continue to provide financial support and managerial guidance to the Carolina Beach
                             Boat Basin and Marina, including periodic major capital improvement projects as may be authorized
                             and budgeted by the Town. Day to day management of the marina shall be handled by a semi-
                             autonomous Town Council-appointed Marina Authority. Alternatively, the Town may elect to lease the
                             boat basin out to a private managment company, but with the Town maintaining ownership of all
                             facilities. Under either managment option, the marina's normal operation adn maintenance shall be
                             self sustaining through revenues received. Future improvements to the marina area shall be in keeping
                             with the pedestrian-oriented character of the central part of Town.               
                                                                                                                                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       
                                                                       
                                                                                                                                 
                                                                                              
                                             
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              


                             Section 8.3.15       State Port Facilities


                             Major port facilities do not exist at Carolina Beach; however, Town officials feel that the State Port in
                             Wilmington does have some economic benefit to the community due to its close proximity to the town.
                             For that reason, local officials support continued expansion of the facility.

                             8.3.15 State Port Facilities

                             Due to the regional exonomic benefits of the State Port at Wilmington, the Town supports their
                             continued expansion.                                                     
                                                                                                                                       
                                    
                                                                                                                                      








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                                                                                            Policy Statements


                           Section 8.3.16 Highway Improvements

                           As noted in Section 6.2.3, highway and street system improvements are the most important
                           infrastructure issues facing the community, next to water and sewer system upgrades. After many years
                           of operating under an old thoroughfare plan, the Town's of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach came
                           together in 1992 and, with assistance from the North Carolina Department of Transportation,
                           developed a new thoroughfare plan for Pleasure Island. (The contents of the thoroughfare plan are
                           discussed in greater detail in Section 6.2.3)

                           In 1995, the Town attempted to implement significant portions of a thoroughfare plan by developing a
                           comprehensive street system and traffic management plan. Support for the implementation of the street
                           system plan, however, was mixed. Generally, residents supported the plan while the business
                           community was opposed to it. As a result, the street system plan was shelved, and by default, so also
                           was the Thoroughfare Plan. The Town's policy calls for revisiting this plan periodically and
                           attempting to implement it in concert with residents, businesses and property owners.

                           It should be noted that while the Town does support greater use of Dow Road as a bypass facility, the
                           Town does not support the widening of Lake Park Blvd. or "improvements" which would increase the
                           volume or speed of traffic through the center of town at the expense of east-west pedestrian and bicycle
                           movement across the roadway.

                           Regarding bikeways in particular, residents at public meeting                              s voiced very strong and consistent support
                           for expansion of bikeway facilities throughout the town. Residents attending public meetings
                           universally recognized the advantages of bicycles as a convenient means of getting around the town,
                           particularly given the flat topography of the island, the mild climate and the limited availability of
                           parking. In light of this strong support, the Town should pursue, with diligence, funding for those parts
                           of the Thoroughfare Plan and other studies dealing with bikeway improvements.

                           8.3.16 A Highway Improvements
                           The Town supports continued highway improvements providing access to Carolina Beach as 
                           identified in the State Transportation Improvement Program(TIP). The Town shall not support changes
                           in the design of Lake Park Boulevard which would increase the volume or speed of traffic flow through
                           the center of Town at the expense of east-west pedestrian and bicycle movement across the roadway                                                                                    
                           Rather, the Towm supports the use of Dow Road for through traffic.                                                                                
                                                                                                             
                                                                                                          
                                                                                                                              
                                                                                  
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         
                                             
                                                                                                                              
                                                                      
                           8.3.16 B Street System Planning
                                                                                                                                                                                 
                           The Town shall periodically prepare, update and approve a Comprehensive Street System and Traffic 
                           Management Plan. consistent with the overall Thoroughfare Plan as approved by NCDOT. The plan
 
                           shall encompass autombile, bicycle and pedestrian traffic movement, as well as on-street and off-
                           street parking needs. The plan shall be employed in carrying out a planned program of street, bikeway,                                                        
                           sidewalk, signage and signalization improvements, as well as in evaluating various public and private
                           sector actions and development proposals as related to transportation issues. Preparation and                                                           
                           implementation of the plan shall occur in concert with the residents, business, and property owners of                                           
                           the neighborhoods and streets involved.                                                              
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   
                                                                    
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                   
                             
                                                                                                                                                          
                                                                                                              
                                                                 
                                                                                                   
                                                    
                                                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                                              
                                                             
                                                                                 
                                                        


                           8.3.16 C       Bikeways
                           The Town supports the use of of bicycles as a functional way of reducing automobile traffic and parking
                           demand at the beach, as well as providing a convenient means to get around in many parts of Carolina                                                                     
                           Beach. The Towm shall undertake a continuing program of bicycle friendly improvements to town streets                                                                                      
                           in keeping with the Town's Bikeway Plan and peroidically updated Street System and Traffic                                                                                                                                                                                                         
                           Management Plan.                                                                                        
                                                                                                                                                                                
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
                                                                                                      
                                                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                                                                  















                                   




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                                                                                    Policy Statements



                          Section 8.3.16 D Parking

                          Much of the older part of Carolina Beach, including particularly the boardwalk and marina area, was
                          developed in an era when off-street parking was not part of the standard development model. As a
                          result, demand for on-street parking spaces can be at a premium, depending upon the time of day and
                          year. Nonetheless, studies have shown that on-street parking is one of the most efficient forms of
                          parking in terms of the amount of land area consumed relative to the number of parking spaces
                          provided. (This is because the travel lanes for the street also serve as maneuvering lanes for the
                          parking spaces.) On-street parking has also been shown to have a calming influence on the speed of
                          traffic on the street. For all these reasons, the Town's policies on parking reflect an emphasis on
                          preserving on-street parking whenever possible. At the same time, the Town wishes to avoid the
                          creation of expansive large off-street parking areas adding little but asphalt to the appearance and
                          economy of the town. Finally, there was considerable discussion at the Planning Board level regarding
                          the strategic use of metered parking, custom-tailored to the time of year and time of day. The consensus
                          of the board was that there were, perhaps, certain times of the day (evening) and year (off season)
                          when parking could be free.

                          8.3.16 D Parking
                          (1) In the absence of parking under elevated structures, the Town recognizes that on-street parking is one                                                                                                       
                           of the most efficient forms of parking available at Carolina Beach. The Town shall avoid actions                                   
                           which would eliminate on-street parking.                       
                                                                                                      
                          (2) Large off-street parking areas or structures are viewed as an ineffieient use of limited land resources                                                                                                                                                                     
                           in a beach community. Where such uses are created, however, the shall be in keeping with the
                           character, scale and design of their location within the Town.
                           (3) The Town shall seek to more carefully tailor fee parking spaces to match actual demand by time of             
                            year,day of week and time of day.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  
                                                                                                                      
                                 

                                                                                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                   
                             
                                                                                                   
                                                                                                      
                          


                          Section 8.3.16 E     Dow Road Intersection


                          This intersection is a maze of traffic islands. It was created when there was not much desire to go down
                          Dow Road. The construction of the post office has brought an increase in traffic to this intersection, and
                          the potential for hazardous turning movements. In addition, the increasing importance of Dow Road to
                          the total island transportation system will further necessitate improvements to this intersection.

                          8.3.16 E   Dow Road Intersection
                          Efforts by the Department of Transportation, acting in cooperation with the Town of Carolina Beach to 

                          correct operational deficiencies at the Dow Road/North Lake Park Boulevard intersection, shall be                                 
                          supported.          
                                          
                                     
                                                                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                                                 
                          
                                     

                          Section 8.3.17 A Scenic Vistas and Views


                          The Town of Carolina Beach recognizes that its economic base is highly dependent upon the natural
                          amenities of its geographic location on the coast of North Carolina. Without these amenities, the
                          own's economy would cease to function. Therefore, the preservation of the town's shorefront access,
                          open space, and its views and vistas is recognized as being of great importance to the continued
                          t

                          prosperity of businesses and property values at Carolina Beach. New development trends have been
                          toward creating exclusive waterfront developments that in many respects, act to wall off the
                          waterfront. The Town's policy on scenic views and vistas is to strongly discourage such development
                          forms.                                                                    
                                                                                                        
                               



















                                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                       















                          forms.





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                                                                                  Policy Statements


                        8.3.17 A Scenic Vistas and Views
                        Natural views and vistas provided by street corridors and street ends, open spaces, and other
                        opportunities within the Town shall be preserved and protected to the maximum extent possible. This             
                        may require forethought in the design of new development or redevelopment which would otherwise              
                        act to close off such views and vistas.                               
                        Section 8.3.17 B Neighborhood Character and Preservation

                        One distinguishing feature of this land use plan update is its emphasis on the identification and
                        preservation of neighborhoods within the community. The purpose of this effort is to preserve those
                        aspects of each neighborhood that make it unique within the Town of Carolina Beach. At the same
                        time, those aspects of neighborhoods which are not desirable can be eliminated or phased out.
                        8.3.17 B Neighborhood Character and Preservation                                                                           The Town encourages the imporvement, preservation and enchancement of the Town's areas of unique             
				character and neighborhoods. to accomplish this, the Town shall initiate an on-going neighborhood
				planning program, to be addressed on a rotating basis among the various neighborhoods a staff
				resources allow.
                        Section 8.3.17 C       Historic Preservation


                        In a resort community like Carolina Beach, there is a natural tendency for property owners to want to
                        maximize the development potential of their real estate. (As property values continue to escalate,
                        larger and more expensive structures can be justified as a percentage of total real estate value.) At the
                        same time, there is growing interest in the Carolina Beach community for historic preservation of older
                        structures and sites. Interest is represented, in part, by the Federal Point Historic Preservation Society,
                        which has taken a leadership role in efforts to inventory important historic resources within the entire
                        area of the county south of Snow's Cut. At the present time, however, requiring owners of property to
                        preserve the historic character of the structures on their lots is not deemed feasible. Regardless, the
                        Town does wish to encourage owners of older homes to keep them in good condition.

                        8.3.17 C Historic Preservation
                        The town encourages the preservation of its older, potentially historic stuctures and sites, including
				recent efforts by Federal Point Historic Preservation Society to inventory important historic
				resources within the entire area of the County south of Snow's Cut.

		

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                                                                                            Policy Statements


                           8.4 Continuing Public Participation Policies

                           The public participation plan and program for the Carolina Beach Land Use Plan is discussed fully in
                           section 11 of this document. For the sake of completeness, however, a summary of the importance of
                           public participation in the Carolina Beach Land Use Plan is included here.

                           Since its inception, North Carolina's Coastal Area Management Act land use planning program has
                           placed a high level of emphasis on public participation in the development of local use plans and
                           policies. The intent is to insure that the resulting plan and policies reflect, as closely as possible, the
                           will of the people in the community. Two key elements must be included in any effective public
                           participation program: (1) public education, and (2) public involvement. The most effective format for
                           public participation involves two way communication between citizens and local planning officials.

                           The public participation strategy employed in the development of the Carolina Beach land use plan
                           involved a variety of activities. Included were key town meetings held at the beginning, midpoint and
                           conclusion of the planning process. Numerous meetings with the Town Planning Board, all advertised
                           and open to the public, focused the Board's attention on the plan and its policies. It should also be noted
                           that the Planning Board was pleased at the level of local newspaper coverage given to the
                           development of the plan.

                           Regarding neighborhood planning in particular, the intent of this plan is to encourage planning to be as
                           responsive as possible to the specific wishes of the residents of various neighborhoods within the Town.
                           At the same time, neighborhood planning has been found to be effective in gaining the participation of
                           more citizens in the future of their community. As a consequence, the Town achieves greater
                           participation and resident commitment to the proper governance of the community, and the citizens
                           gain a greater say in decisions affecting their everyday lives.

                           The following policies are designed to affirm the Town's position on public participation during plan
                           development, as well as following plan adoption.

                           8.4.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Continuing Public Participation
                           Carolina Beach believes that on-going, effective public involement, combined with a coherent factual                                                                            
				   analysis of any public issue, is the key to creating and maintaining a direction for the community upon
				   which all may agree.
				8.4.1 Land Use Plan Update Process
				Public involvemtn will be encouraged among all pemanent residents, seasonal visitors, and property
				owners during each Land Use Plan Update.
				8.4.2 On-going Public Participation
				Public involvement in planning matters will continue beyond the plan update process through providing
				public education and information, utilization of the news media and mailers, and public opportunities
				for discussion and comment of land use issues. The PlanningBoard will advertise the public meetings
				held to discuss land use and associated matters.
				8.4.3 Neighborhood Planning
				To encourage a high level of involvement by citizens and property owners in planning decisions, the
				Town shall institute an on-going neighborhood planning program, within which different parts of the
				Town will be addressed on a rotating basis as staff resources allow.



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                                                            Policy, Statements


                  8.5 Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post-Disaster Recovery And Evacuation
                  Plans


                  8.5.0 Description of Storm Hazard Risk

                  8.5.0 A Storm Effects


                  During coastal storms, including both hurricanes and northeasters, Carolina Beach is subject to beach
                  erosion, storm surge, wave action, flooding, high winds, and beach washover. Of these, storm surge and
                  high winds are typically the two most damaging storm effects at Carolina Beach. These storm effects
                  may be listed at the following levels during hurricane events of increasing magnitude(as measured on
                  the Saffir-Simpson scale):

                  Hurricane                      Storm Surge                           Maximum
                  Category                                                         Sustained Winds
                  Category 1                         4-5' above normal                     74-95 mph
                  Category 2                         6-8' above normal                    96-110 mph
                  Category 3                        9-12' above normal                   111-130 mph
                  Category 4                       13-18' above normal                   131-155 mph
                  Category 5                     over 18' above normal                  over 155 mph

                  8*5*0 B Hazard Areas Mapped

                  The Hazard Areas, 1996 map provides an instant visual assessment of those parts of the Town of
                  Carolina Beach which are susceptible to various forms of hazardous events. The map shows four
                  distinct hazardous areas within the planning jurisdiction of the Town. The first, and most expansive,
                  are lands in the 100 year flood plain, including all properties east of Myrtle Grove Sound and the
                  Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, a significant area around Carolina Lake, all shoreline properties on
                  the west side of Myrtle Grove Sound and a substantial amount of property on the east side of the Cape
                  Fear River.


                  A second mapped hazard area is the area of velocity flooding, as determined from flood instirance rate
                  maps. This is the part of Carolina Beach along the entire length of the community's oceanfront that
                  would be subject to wave-action-type flooding during a major storm event.

                  A third natural hazard area is around Carolina Beach Inlet and has been circled only generally on the
                  map due to the relative unpredictability of the extent to which hazardous conditions may exist around
                  an ocean inlet.


                  Finally, the fourth mapped hazard area is not related to natural events at all, but rather is related to
                  the Sunny Point Military Terminal on the west side of the Cape Fear River. The buffer area owned and
                  controlled by the U.S. Army comprises perhaps 20-25 percent of the total land area within the Town's
              r   corporate limits and extraterritorial planning jurisdiction.

                  8.5.0 C Existing Development at Risk

                  Each of the four hazard areas described in the paragraph above were placed as an overlay on the
                  existing land use map of the town. In accordance with CAMA guidelines, this allows for a relatively
                  convenient visual assessment of the degree to which different parts of the developed community are at
                  risk. Based on this composite map, it may be concluded that the majority of all developed sites in the
                  town would be subject to flooding in a 100 year storm event. Further, given the relative development
                  density and value of real estate located closest to the beach, an estimated 75 percent of the total real
                  estate value at Carolina Beach would be subject to some form of flooding during a major storm event. The


                                                                Page 8-32







                                                                           Policy Statements


                     key to minimizing damage and risk during a major storm event then becomes that of enforcing building
                     codes and flood plan regulations that cause structures to be elevated above flood level. Recent
                     experience with Hurricane Fran clearly demonstrated that those properties properly elevated above
                     the flood level suffered fewer property losses from the storm.
			8.5.0 Storm Hazard Mitigation/Post-Diaster Recover, & Evacuation Policies and Plans
                  The Town shall continually seek to establish procedures and take actions to reduce the potential for the    
			loss of life and property damage prior to a storm event, and to provide a framework for orderly
			reconstruction in the aftermath of a hurricane or other significant damaging event.
                     8.5.1 Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies

                     8.5.1 A Storm Effect Mitigation

                     In the case of severe storms, conditions exist which pose a serious threat to life and property at
                     Carolina Beach, Accordingly, the Town has adopted a Flood Plain ordinance which benefits storm
                     hazard mitigation. Carolina Beach is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance Program
                     and is supportiv      e of its hazard mitigation elements. The Town enforces the FEMA Criteria for minimum
                     structure elevation in both the "A" and "V" zones as identified in the National Flood Insurance
                     Program.

                     8.5.1 A Storm Effect Mitigation
                    (1) High Winds: The town supports enforcement of the NC State Building Code. The Town wil continue
                 	   to enforce the State Building Code on Wind resistant construction with design standards of from 120 to
			   150 mph wind loads.
             	  (2) Storm Surge: The Town supports and is a participant with the State in administering the
			  development standards of the CAMA Ocean Hazard Area of Environmental Concern (AEC). These
			  standards help ensure that structures particulary susceptible to storm surge (e.g. first row) are set back
			  from the ocean a distance based on the average annual erosion rate at that location.
			  (3) Flooding: The Town is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance Program and is
			  supportive of its hazard mitigation elements. The town shall continue to seek imporovemnts in
			  development standards which would result in lower insurance premiums for town property owners. The
			  Town also supports proper enforcement of State and Federal wetland sdevelopment permit processes in
			  areas potentially susceptible to flooding.
			  (4) Wave Action and Shoreline Erosion: The town is supportive of the CAMA development permit
			  process for estuarine shoreline areas and the requisite development standards which encourage both
			  shoreline stabilization and facilitation of proper drainage.		

                     8.5.1 B Discouragement of Hazardous Development

                     The Town strictly follows the CAMA development guidelines and has used land use tools, such as
                     zoning, to discourage development in hazardous locations.

                     8.5.1 B Discouragement of Hazardous Development
                     (1) In reviewing development proposals, the town shall act in concert with CAMA standards which
			    discourage or prohibit development in hazardous locations.
			   (2) The Town shall conduct a public education and information sharing program approximately once per
			    year with the goal of making the town more resistant to the forces of a storm. This will include a public



									Page 8-33                                                                      












                           h
                              


Policy Statements


outreach program to educate the public as to storm resistant building design and construction standards, as well as the Town's policies on evacuatin, reentry, restoration of services and reconstruction
(3) The Town will periodically conduct studies to analyze both the feasibility and benefits of revising local development controls to lessen the effects of storm damage. Included shall be an examination of the Town's floodplain management and building standards which could have the effect of recucing flood insuance rates for Town property owners.
Section 8.5.1 C Public Land acquisition
Due to the multiple street ends providing public access to both the beach and sound, there is not a pressing need for the town to acquire significant additional properties for public access to the water. However, all access ways are in need of additional land for parking nerby.
Also, with major damage to the old Town Hall suffered during hurricane Fran, the town is currently in need of appropriate space for buildings to serve the police and fire departments. At the same time, the Town will likely be in the business of disposing of the old Town Hall site in the near future. For these reasons, the Town must remain open to opportunities for selective property acquisitions on a case by case basis-particularly involving sites for buildings.
Also, with an on-going need to provide for expanded water systems serving proposed annexation areas, the Town must be attentive to potential well sites and a site for a future elevated water tank on the south side of town.
Finally, with growing demands for active recreation fields, the Town must keep an eye out for a potential active recreation park site serving the south area of town, should it become annexed.
8.5.1 c Public Land Acquistion
(1) The Town supports advanced planning for proerty acquistion in areas of extreme and high hazards, where such acquisition serves a useful public purpose, such as for public access to the beach, where such access is needed. In evaluating potential property purchases, the town shall take into consideration rates of erosion or other factors which could have a bearing on the longevity and ultimate usefulness of the property for public use. 
(2) The Town shall investigate outside funding sources for land acquisition and shall encourage gifts and donations for tax credits, as a mitigative measure for future storm events. To provide a proactive approach, priority areas for acquisition shall be identified in advance of storm events.
Section 8.5.1 D Evacuation
With the recent experience of Hurricanes Bertha and Fran during 1996, the town has learned much about improving coordination in its evacuation efforts iwth the county. This is especially important in terms of a reentry plan for residents and property owners following a major destructive storm event.
8.5.1 D Evacuation
the Town, in cooperation with County and State officials, shall periodically evaluate the impact of continued growth on existing transportation facilities with regard to evacuation routes and times. Actions to meet needed transportation improvements shall be taken well in advance of need.
Page 8-34





                                                                                         Policy Statements



                          8.5.2 Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies


                          8.5.2 A Emergency Management Plan

                          The Town of Carolina Beach coordinates, disaster related activities with New Hanover County.
                          Coordination focuses primarily on return access, debris pick up, and County Health Inspections. One
                          important goal of the Town is to better educate residents and property owners regarding the Town's
                          evacuation and re-entry policies, so as to avoid some of the misunderstandings which occurred during
                          hurricanes Bertha and Fran.


                          8.5.2 A Emergency Management Plan and Near Term Response
                          The town shall prepare and annually update an Emergency Management and Operations Plan, in                                                                                                                                             
                          concert with County and State emergency management officials, and with input from Town residents.                      
                          The plan shall encompass pre-storm and immediate post storm activities and policies of the Town, 
                          including policies on evacuation and reentry. Distribution of a "Citizen's Guide" to important elements                                                                              
                          of the plan shall occur on a year round basis at Town Hall, with heightened education about the                                                                                                                          
                          policies of the plan occurring at the beginning of each hurricane season.                                                                                                                                                 
                                      

                          8.5.2 B    Local Reconstruction Policies


                          The Town of Carolina Beach has, as one of its top priorities, the establishment of a clearly articulated
                          Emergency Management and Operations Plan for use before, during, and after a major storm event.
                          Included in this Plan shall be the establishment of mutual aid agreements for assistance in the areas of
                          clean up, damage assessment and reconstruction activities.
                          8.5.2B Local Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies
                          Redevelopment in the most hazardous areas will be discouraged. Structures and sites which were                                                                                                      a  n.     es w
                          destroyed by 50% or more of their value and which did not conform to the Town's building regulations, 
                          zoning ordinances, and other storm hazard mitigation policies shall be redeveloped according to current                                                             
                          standards. In some instances, this may mean relocation of construction or no reconstruction at all.                                                                                                           
                          Structures and sites suffering damages at less than 50% of their value shall be allowed to be restored to                                                                      
                          their original condition prior to the storm.                                                                                                            
                                                                        
                          The Town shall create and have on hand a Municipal Facilities Master Plan for the reconstruction of                                                              
                          public buildings and facilities. The plan shall address functional as well as aesthetic considerations.                                                                                                                                                                   t
                                                                                                                             
                          8.5.2C Recovery Task Force 


                          Immediately following a storm event, the Town shall first assess the extent of the structural damage to 
                          determine a further course of action. Depending on the extent of damage caused by the event, various 
                          personnel will be involved in land use decision-making. Those who may be involved include:                                                                                                                               
                                              
                          

                          

                                                  1. Mayor and Town Council
                                                  2. Town Manager
                                                  3. Public Works Director
                                                  4. Town Planner
                                                  5. Fire Chief
                                                  6 . Police Chief
                                                  7. Representative from CP&L
                                                  8. CAMA Officials
                                                  9. Representative from NCDOT
                                                 10. Other
                        
































                                                 



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                                                                                  Policy Statements

                        8.5.2 C Recovery Task Force
                        The Town shall have a predetermined Recovery Task Force to orchestrate the Town's recovery                                                                                                                                        
                        activieies following a major storm event. The composition and duties of the Task Force shall be                                                              
                        specified in the Town's Emergency Management and Operations Plan.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                
                         
                        8.5.2 D Staging Schedule for Reconstruction and Repair 


                        The staging schedule for the re-establishment of essential services and the reconstruction and repair of                                                                                                            
                        properties damaged during a storm event, will depend on the severity of the storm and the damage 
                        inflicted. The Town will be working to restore essential services related to the public health safety and 
                        welfare first. Properties suffering minor damage will have building permits issued as expenditiously as                                                                            
                        possible. Properties suffering major damage will be allowed to implement temporary protective                                                                                                            
                        measures to protect their property from further damage, or to correct a public safety problem. 

                        8.5.2 D Staging Schedule for Reconstruction and Repair

                        (1) To deal with the large number of requests for permits after a major storm, the Town shall employ a 
                        "building permit triage" for orderly issuance of building permits. Criteria for the order of issuance shall 
                        be developed in advance, with the need for modification acknowledged based upon the specific                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   
                        circumstances being faced.             
                        (2) The Town shall also develop a planned sequence for the restoration of public utilities and services, 
                        with allowance for adjustment to deal with circumstances at hand. 
                                                                                                                
                        8.5.2 E Public Infrastructure Repairs and Replacement

                        As a part of the Town's on-going infrastructure planning activities, the Town shall maintain
                        assessments of current infrastructure usage and need for expansion, repair or replacement. Then,
                        following a major storm event, damage to existing public infrastructure will be evaluated as to potential
                        opportunities for expansion or replacement, in keeping with capital improvement planning and repair
                        needs.


                        8.5.2 E Public Infrastructure Repairs/Replacement
                                                                                                                                              
                        The Town supports underground installation, replacement and storm proofing of public and private 
                        utilities and infrastructure. The Town shall also encourage the use of appropriate wind resistant traffic 
                        signals as may be available for new installation and replacement by NC DOT and private individuals.                                                                                             page 8-36                                                                                                           
                               
                               
                               
                               


















                                                                                       Page 8-36
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                                                          Land Classification


                 9. Land Classification

                 9.1 Purpose of Land Classification and Relationship to Policies

                 The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines require that local governments in the coastal area classify
                 various parts of their planning jurisdictions in accordance with the desired density and character of
                 development for each area of their community. By delineating land classes on a map, the Town can
                 specify where various forms of development and redevelopment might best occur, and where natural
                 and cultural resources should be conserved. Unlike zoning, however, which has the force of law, land
                 classification is merely a tool to help implement policies and is not, in the strict sense of the term, a
                 regulatory mechanism.

                 The State's land classification system has several suggested categories. For example, the Developed
                 class is intended for areas that are already urban in nature. The Urban Transition class is intended for
                 areas that are expected to become urban within the next decade. The Rural class is intended for areas
                 that are not expected to become urban within the next decade-and so forth. In the case of Carolina
                 Beach, however, the incorporated area, (excluding marshes, the beach strand, and public trust waters)
                 is largely urban in nature. In other words, most of the area is either already developed or platted for
                 development, and is currently receiving the full range of urban services, including particularly,
                 centralized water and sewer. According to CAMA Guidelines, therefore, most of the developable area
                 of Carolina Beach qualifies for inclusion in the Developed class, with the balance of the area-i.e.
                 marshes, the beach strand and public trust waters-qualifying for the Conservation class.

                 Designating nearly all of the land area of the Town into a single land class, however, defeats the
                 purpose of providing policy guidance to the Town for different parts of the community. For this reason,
                 this plan subdivides the Developed class into several sub-categories. These sub-categories correspond to
                 neighborhood planning areas within the Town with distinct development characteristics or common
                 attributes, Policy positions can then be included in each of these neighborhood sub-classifications to
                 help the Town maintain the distinguishable neighborhood qualities unique to each area.
                 9.2 The Land Classification System at Carolina Beach

                 The purpose of the land classification system for the Town of Carolina Beach, therefore, is to identify
                 areas of similar character and association for which custom-tailored development policies may be
                 drafted and implemented. For example, the Main Residential area has a development character quite
                 different from the development character of the North End. To employ the same development policies
                 for each of these areas would be inappropriate, eventually resulting in the total loss of the unique
                 character of each of these areas. In other words, as development and redevelopment occurs at Carolina
                 Beach, it should be designed in context of the neighborhood planning area in which it is located.

                 This section describes the several "neighborhood planning areas" at Carolina Beach. Ten of eleven
                 neighborhood planning areas fall into the broad classification of Developed under the State guidelines
                 for planning in the coastal area. The eleventh has been placed in the Urban Transition class. For each
                 neighborhood, a Description Of Area Character is presented, followed immediately by a statement of
                 Policy Emphasis to be employed by the Town in making development decisions for that area.
                 9.3 The Land Classification Map
                 The land classification map for Carolina Beach is provided at the back of this document. The general
                 location of each land class (neighborhood planning area) in the town is also provided as a part of each
                 area description below.



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                  9.4 Land Classification Areas

                    Developed Neighborhood Areas

                  9.4.1 The St. Joseph/Spencer-Farlow Area

                  Description of Area Character

                  This area is located at the north end of town, just to the left after crossing the Snow's Cut bridge. The
                  area is bordered generally by US 421 on the west, Snow's Cut on the north, Myrtle Grove Sound to the
                  east and the Federal Point Shopping Center/Amusement/ Commercial area to the south. This is one of
                  the more recent areas of the beach to develop, with most construction here occurring during the 1980's
                  and 1990's.


                  Land uses in the area consist of a mixture of single family homes, townhouses, and water oriented
                  condominiums in planned residential developments. This part of town also contains some extensive
                  areas of freshwater wetlands to the interior of the area. Zoning here is mostly RA-7, RA-6A and MB-1.
                  There is also an RA-20 zoning district along a portion of the Snow's Cut frontage closest to the bridge.
                  Single family lot sizes are predominantly in the 7,000 square foot range.

                  Ongoing development interests in this area are creatingconflicts between existing residential
                  neighborhoods and newer multi-family developments coming in at the water's edge. These conflicts are
                  related primarily to traffic generated and parking demand created by the newly proposed multi-
                  family developments and their associated marina facilities. Streets in the area are not in a grid iron
                  pattern, so traffic entering or leaving the area tends to concentrate on just a few streets. There are no
                  sidewalks in the area and no services nearby. Therefore, the area tends to be automobile oriented.

                  Street and development patterns in the area have not allowed for public access to the sound or Snow's
                  Cut. There is, however, a well used State Wildlife boat ramp at the Northeast comer of the area,
                  providing boat access to Snow's Cut, the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and the mouth of Myrtle
                  Grove Sound. The new marina facilities associated with the recent proposals for multi-family
                  development are quite large by Carolina Beach standards. (100+ boat slips each).

                  Policy Emphasis:

                  The policy emphasis of this plan is to protect the viability of the existing residential neighborhoods in
                  this part of town, while allowing for reasonable development and redevelopment of other properties in
                  the area. A primary focus of the Town's growth management efforts will be on controlling the nature
                  and intensity of new multi-family /marina developments so that they are compatible with the existing
                  character and use of the area. Particular attention shall be paid to traffic generation, cut through
                  traffic, and parking demands related to new developments. Areas of freshwater wetlands shall also be
                  conserved for the valuable functions they serve in filtering urban runoff and reducing flooding problems.

                  9.4.2 The Post Office Area


                  Description of Area Character

                  This area is located at the north end of town, immediately to the right after coming over the Snow's
                  Cut bridge. The area is bounded by Carolina Beach State Park to the west, Snow's Cut to the north, US
                  421 to the east, and Dow Road to the south. Development in this area is largely non-residential in
                  nature, although there are a few single family homes in the area, and one sizable trailer park.



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                                                          Land Classification


                 Land uses in the area include the post office, the Federal Point Medical Center, a pawn shop/TV repair
                 service business, an automobile garage, the American Legion Post, a welding shop and boat storage. As
                 such, this area provides an important service function to town residents by accommodating intensive
                 commercial services that would not be appropriate within most other parts of town.

                 The zoning pattern reinforces existing development patterns in the area. Most of the area is zoned B-3
                 (Highway Business), but with a pocket of RA-5T for the trailer park, and another area of RA-6A
                 adjacent to Snows Cut.

                 A major point of interest in the coming years will be the redesign of the US 421 /Dow Road intersection.
                 Improvements here will redirect through traffic away from US 421 (Lake Park Boulevard through
                 town) and onto Dow Road along the western margin of the community.

                 Regardless of improvements at the Dow Road intersection, all traffic to and from Carolina Beach
                 (excluding ferry traffic) must pass by the Post Office Area. This area, therefore, serves as the gateway
                 for all of Pleasure Island. Because of this, the Town has an interest in the safe and efficient traffic
                 movement through the area and in the appearance of developments adjacent to the US 421 corridor.

                 Policy Emphasis:

                 The policy emphasis of this plan will be on working proactively with area property owners to address
                 land development and gateway appearance issues. For its part, the Town has installed a number of
                 streetscape improvements along this portion of US 421, including landscaping and decorative street
                 lighting. Future developments will be reviewed particularly for roadway appearance, attractive
                 signage, and landscaping. The Town will also work cooperatively with the State Department of
                 Transportation on traffic management issues and the ultimate reconfiguration of the Dow Road
                 intersection.


                 9.4.3 The US 421 Commercial Area


                 Description of Area Character

                 This, the largest commercial area of the Town of Carolina Beach, is located immediately adjacent to
                 both sides of US 421, about one mile after crossing over the Snows Cut bridge. The Federal Point
                 Shopping Center anchors the area, and is surrounded by outdoor amusements and a variety of retail
                 establishments.

                 Commercial establishments in this area tend to be large in scale, with ample parking. Businesses
                 include a grocery store, drug store, hardware store, and a number of beach oriented retail stores. These
                 uses are supported by the area's designation in the B-3 Zoning District (Highway Business).

                 Also included in this area is the Town Hall complex and recreation center on the east side of US 421.
                 Eventually, it is expected that the Fire and Police Department operations will also be relocated to the
                 municipal complex in this area.

                 While the Post Office area serves as the initial "gateway" to the town, the US 421 Commercial Area
                 makes up much of the "entryway corridor" into town. This corridor has many of the characteristics
                 associated with a typical commercial strip found in many cities: large, pole mounted signs, overhead
                 power lines, billboards, numerous driveway cuts, extensive areas in asphalt parking lots, and little
                 natural vegetation or greenery. As such, the area does little to enhance Carolina Beach as an.
                 "attractive resort community with small town charm".




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                                                           Land Classification


                  Policy Emphasis:

                  The policy emphasis of this plan will be on working to mitigate the adverse visual affects of the strip
                  development concentrated in this area. This may include improvements in area signage and
                  landscaping, the addition of sidewalks to encourage pedestrian movement, and a close monitoring of
                  additional driveway cuts onto US 111, These improvements might be carried out through an entryway
                  corridor plan, prepared in cooperation with area property owners, or through changes in the Town's sign
                  ordinance, landscaping standards, and zoning ordinance, plus a billboard abatement plan.

                  9.4.4 The Mixed Use Area Near the Central Business District


                  Description of Area Character

                  The Mixed Use Area of Carolina Beach lies between the Central Business District/ Boardwalk Area on
                  the east and the Main Residential area of Carolina Beach to the west. Its borders can be generally
                  defined by Lake Park Boulevard on the east, Fourth Street on the west, Carolina Lake to the south, and
                  Goldsboro Avenue to the north. As its name implies, this area serves as an area of mixed land uses
                  between the intensive, commercial, central part of town and the quiet residential areas reaching back
                  toward Dow Road.


                  This strategically located area is one of the most diverse, mixed use sub areas of Carolina Beach,
                  having a good range of services close at hand. The area is characterized by a mixture of single family,
                  duplex and multi-family residential development, as well as a variety of office, institutional and
                  commercial uses. This area also includes many of the town's cultural institutions and gathering places
                  including, for example, the Town's community building, senior center, library, the Mason's building, and
                  several restaurants. Carolina Beach Lake provides a definitive southern limit to the area. There are
                  ongoing efforts at the lake to upgrade the park-like setting of the lake with a walkway around the
                  entire perimeter.

                  Zoning in the area includes primarily B-1 (Central District) and RA-6, with two small areas of RA-
                  6A.That portion of the area from Lake Park Boulevard west to Third Street and north of Carolina
                  Beach Lake is zoned B-1 and is undergoing pressure for conversion of residential uses into commercial
                  properties. While the area around Carolina Beach Lake is currently zoned to allow for duplexes (RA-
                  6), the current real estate market has created a demand for single family development in this area.

                  Lot sizes average 5,000 to 6,000 square feet. Many of those located in the B-1 District immediately
                  adjacent to the downtown have been combined, however, for commercial development.

                  Streets and avenues are arranged in a traditional grid iron street pattern, allowing for excellent
                  pedestrian circulation. The presence of a large number of convenient services, combined with sidewalks
                  on nearly all of the streets in the area, create an "small village" atmosphere, well suited for
                  pedestrians. In fact, this part of Carolina Beach is perhaps the most pedestrian oriented of any part of
                  the beach, except the boardwalk area itself. Some streets, including Harper, Cape Fear and Raleigh,
                  have on-street parking which is "up for grabs" by overnight visitors and day visitors alike.

                  In contrast to the large, automobile oriented commercial developments associated with the Federal
                  Point Shopping Center area, most commercial establishments in this part of Carolina Beach are
                  smaller in scale and exhibit a balance between pedestrian and automobile orientation.

                  Many of the single family residential beach cottages in this area are quite old and some are in various
                  stages of disrepair. Even so, many have historic interest due to their age and character.




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                                                          Land Classification


                  Policy Emphasis:

                  The policy emphasis of this plan is on retaining the modest scale of most of the structures in the Mixed
                  Use Area, as well as its pedestrian oriented nature. Large scale commercial uses and parking lots,
                  which would detract from the pedestrian oriented, small village nature of the area, shall not be
                  permitted, While he current mixture of single family residential, multi-family residential, and
                  commercial uses is considered appropriate for this area, careful monitoring will be required to see that
                  pressures for multi-family and commercial development do not get out of balance with the livability of
                  the area. As an alternative to commercial and multi-family development, this area may be an
                  appropriate location for small scale office and institutional uses. This is especially true for that
                  portion of the area between Third and Fourth Streets which must serve as a true transition between the
                  more commercial area adjacent to Lake Park Boulevard and the more solidly residential area west of
                  Fourth Street.


                  9.4.5 The Main Residential Area


                  Description of Area Character

                  The Main Residential area of Carolina Beach extends westward from Fourth Strept on the east to Dow
                  Road on the west and generally from the Dow Road intersection with US 421 on the north to the
                  southern town limits (currently at Carolina Sands Drive). In addition the residential area between
                  Second and Fourth Streets south of Carolina Lake is also included in the Main Residential Area. The
                  area is almost entirely single family residential in character, with a few community and institutional
                  uses located in the area. These community and institutional uses include Carolina Beach Elementary
                  School, several churches, a fire station, a rest home, and Mike Chapel Park.

                  While most of the original lots in the area are 50 by 125 feet (6,250 square feet), the majority of the
                  area is zoned RA-12. This requires the combination of two lots to meet the 12,000 square foot minimum
                  lot size. A smaller portion of the area is RA-5 and RA-6 allowing for single family residences and
                  duplexes on 5,000 and 6,000 square foot lots. The newest part of the Main Residential area, Carolina
                  Sands, is zoned RA-5B and calls for single family residential uses on 5,000 square foot lots. In contrast
                  with the RA-5 District, the RA-5B excludes duplexes.

                  This area has been developing over a long period of time, beginning in the 1940's and continuing to the
                  present time. Over the years, residential home square footages have ranged from 1,400 square feet up
                  to, and exceeding, 3,000 square feet. Because land elevations in this area are relatively good (above the
                  floodplain) there is no need to place structures on stilts or pilings. For this reason, residences tend to
                  take on a traditional neighborhood appearance-not of a beach style.

                  Streets are continuous in the area and in a grid iron pattern. While on-street parking is not permitted in
                  the area, visitors to the area are accustomed to parking in the street right-of-way adjacent to their
                  host property owners. Because there are few convenient commercial services in the area, residents are
                  no, inclined to walk to services and sidewalks are present on only an estimated ten to fifteen percent of
                  all blocks.


                  Policy Emphasis:

                  The policy emphasis of this plan is to protect the viability of this area for single family residences
                  with an appropriate mix of community and institutional uses. Duplexes on small (5000 to 6000 square
                  foot) lots shall be discouraged in this area through appropriate zoning amendments. Opportunities for
                  greater pedestrian and bicycle movement from this area to services located in and around the Central
                  Business District should be encouraged. The Town can facilitate this objective by the addition of
                  sidewalks in the area as Town capital improvement budgets allow.


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                                                            Land Classification


                  9.4.6 The North End


                  Description of Area Character

                  The North End of Carolina Beach consists of a small area of streets extending landward from the North
                  Beach "Peninsula", beginning at the point of intersection of Periwinkle Lane and Canal Drive.
                  Currently, the North End is receiving considerable attention and new investment. The area consists of
                  an older section of single family homes and a newer section which is partly single family and partly
                  multi-family. (In this case "older" refers primarily to when the streets were first platted.)

                  This area was recently rezoned to RA-6B (single family only), with lots sizes averaging slightly over
                  6,000 square feet. Average home sizes in the area started out at perhaps 1,200 square feet originally,
                  but have increased over the years to an average approaching 3000 square feet today.

                  The streets in the older section, (named after the states, of Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Virginia and
                  Maryland), are in a modified grid pattern. This allows for good pedestrian circulation throughout the
                  neighborhood.

                  The newer section, known as "Spinnaker Pointe" or "Oceana", is currently under development. These
                  properties were also recently rezoned to RA-6B. When built out, however, this newer area will consist
                  of a mixture of single family and previously approved multi-family structures. Newly constructed
                  single family homes here are some of the largest in town and the four 18-unit multi-family buildings
                  are each three stories in height.

                  Streets in the Spinnaker Pointe project area are private and curvilinear, in keeping with the
                  contemporary style of development here. There is no on street parking anywhere in the North End area
                  and no sidewalks. Even so, pedestrians enjoy walking through the area due to the quiet nature of the
                  streets.


                  The North End is one of the most water oriented areas at Carolina Beach, as evidenced by numerous
                  private docks associated with lots fronting on Myrtle Grove Sound. In addition, the Spinnaker Pointe
                  development has its own private marina, consisting of 80 large boat slips. The Spinnaker Point Marina
                  area is zoned MB-1, which allows marina based businesses.
                  Despite the area's water orientation, public access to the sound is quite limited. While three of the
                  area's streets (Delaware, Maryland and the "Unnamed" Street) have public right-of-ways to the sound
                  at their street ends, the lack of on-street parking generally precludes opportunities for public use of
                  these unimproved access ways.

                  Policy Emphasis:

                  The policy emphasis of this plan is for the older section of the North End to continue as a single family
                  residential area. Incremental improvements and investments in single family homes in this area shall
                  be encouraged. Multi-family development, whether by new development or by increases in development
                  intensity or scale at existing locations, shall not be permitted. With the possible exception of the MB-1
                  commercial district at the marina, the Spinnaker Pointe area shall be allowed to continue to develop in
                  accordance with the plan as approved by the Town, and as permitted by the zoning ordinance.

                  9.4.7 North Beach


                  Description of Area Character

                  This planning area is a peninsula bounded by Myrtle Grove Sound on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on
                  the east. Area termination points north and south are the Town limits and Pelican Lane (near the
                  marina), respectively. (Note: This area does not include the North End Neighborhood (Florida,

                                                                  Page 9- 6






                                                              Land Classification


                  Georgia, Virginia Avenues, plus Spinnaker Pointe) which is addressed separately. Nor does it include
                  the undeveloped, northern end of Carolina Beach from the corporate limits north to the Carolina
                  Beach Inlet. This area is not suited environmentally for development and is intended for ultimate use as
                  a Town park and open space area.)

                  Two north-south running streets extend the length of the North Beach: Canal Drive along the sound
                  side and Carolina Beach Avenue North along the ocean side. Due to its exposure to both the sound and
                  the ocean, this area has perhaps the largest concentration of tourist oriented "residential" of anywhere
                  at Carolina Beach. Single family residential structures have tended to locate along Canal Drive while
                  more intensive multi-family development has oriented itself along Carolina Beach Avenue North,
                  closer to the ocean. Unlike the Main Residential area of Carolina Beach, in which structures tend to be
                  traditional low profile, and owner-occupied, the North Beach area has structures which are built high
                  off the ground and are renter occupied.

                  Originally, the sound side (west side) of Canal Drive was deed-restricted against development. Over
                  time, however, these deed restrictions were ignored and the sound side portions of the lots fronting on
                  Canal Drive were sold off for single family development. As a result, views to Myrtle Grove sound from
                  Canal Drive were blocked along much of the street. Currently, there is strong incentive to convert these
                  sound side lots from single family residential use to more intensive multifamily development.

                  Many residents point to the multi-family developments along Carolina Beach Avenue North as the
                  type of development that the Town should avoid in the future. These so-called "six packs" were built
                  45 to 50 feet in height during the early 1980's-before a building height of 35 feet was established. In
                  some instances, there are 8 to 16 units on a single ocean front lot. Parking under these structures is often
                  configured in a "three deep" arrangement, which is inconvenient at best and non-functional at worst.
                  Nearly all of the North Beach area is zoned RA-6A, with the exception of the hotel area near the
                  marina and boardwalk, which is zoned T-1 (Tourist). After the "six pack" building boom of the early
                  1980's, development densities in the RA-6A District were scaled back to 4 units per 6,000 square foot lot.

                  Traffic congestion in the area is quite severe, with traffic counts on Canal Drive (2 lanes) being second
                  only to Lake Park Boulevard (5 lanes). Due to heavy traffic volumes and narrow rights of way, no on-
                  street parking is permitted in this area. Parking, in general, is at a premium. Proposals have been
                  presented in the past to convert cross streets in the North Beach area to one way streets on an
                  alternating basis, thereby allowing for on-street parking in the area.

                  The original grid iron street pattern in the area created good opportunities for sound and ocean front
                  access. Currently, there are fifteen ocean front access walkovers at the east end of streets in the area
                  and twelve unimproved sound front access points at the west end of various streets. While private
                  docks are abundant along the entire length of Canal Drive on Myrtle Grove sound, there are no major
                  marinas on this side of"the sound.

                  Flooding along Canal Drive is an on-going problem which has received considerable attention in this
                  area. Beach erosion is also a concern from Periwinkle Lane North.

                  Policy Emphasis:

                  The policy emphasis of this plan is to allow for the continued use of each land parcel as currently built
                  upon or as approved for development. To keep traffic and parking problems from escalating further, no
                  additional multi-family development, (beyond that which has already been approved) is to be
                  permitted in the area, whether by new development or by increases in the development intensity or
                  scale of existing projects. Conversion of single family homes and duplexes to multi-family housing is to
                  be specifically discouraged. This may require rezoning of appropriate single family/duplex areas to
                  exclude multi-family development. It may also require re-examining the extent of the T-1 (Tourist-
                  oriented) zoning district to limit further increases in development intensity in this, the most congested

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                                                          Land Classification


                 part of Carolina Beach. In the event of major storm damage to ocean front structures in this area, the
                 Town would prefer to see a higher quality of development with no increases in density and
                 improvements in off-street parking for each residential unit.

                 9.4.8 The Marina Area


                 Description of Area Character

                 The Marina Area is located at the southernmost end of Myrtle Grove Sound. The current Marina
                 Area/Boat Basin was first dredged in the 1930's. Like the Boardwalk Area, the marina at Carolina
                 Beach has become an historic and traditional public gathering place and unique point of focus within
                 the community. Charter boat services and cruise boats, and all of the dockside activity associated with
                 them have become part of the unique character and personality of Carolina Beach.

                 Current issues in the marina area are as varied as the types of individuals who use the facility. There
                 is a need, for example, to better service "snowbirds"-boaters in transit headed south to Florida or
                 returning North. At present, these potential buyers of goods and services are not coming ashore at
                 Carolina Beach due to the lack of transient docking, onshore transportation services and near shore
                 commercial establishments. In keeping with this need the Town would like to look into creating
                 transient mooring buoys in the marina area. However, current CAMA standards require that a water use
                 plan be developed before mooring opportunities can be established.

                 A closely related issue is the pending loss of the last remaining fuel dock in the Myrtle Grove Sound.
                 Once this area has been redeveloped as proposed, the current fuel dock will be replaced by a private
                 marina associated with an onshore residential development.

                 As with other coastal communities, the use of jet skis in the Myrtle Sound area has become a problem in
                 terms of boating safety, noise and envirom-nental damage. Solutions have ranged from no action, to
                 enforcement of proper use by a harbor patrol, to an outright ban within certain designated areas at
                 Carolina Beach.


                 Policy Emphasis:

                 The policy emphasis of this plan is on establishing a long-term vision and management plan for Myrtle
                 Grove Sound. This plan would include recommendations for harbor management, maintenance dredging,
                 boating safety and patrolling, shoreside access, transient moorings and other issues as they arise. It is
                 recommended that this plan be developed under the auspices of a water use plan in accordance with the
                 guidelines of the Coastal Area Management Act program. Included in this plan would also be proposals
                 for improvements to sound side access ways at all public street ends.

                 9.4.9 The Boardwalk Area and Central Business District


                 Description of Area Character

                 The Carolina Beach Boardwalk Area and Central Business District are the historic town center and
                 entertainment core of Carolina Beach. The area extends generally from the Marina on the north to
                 Hamlet Avenue on the south, and from the back of lots fronting on Lake Park Boulevard on the west to
                 the beach strand on the east. The area is best discussed in two parts: the Boardwalk Area proper and
                 the surrounding Central Business District.

                 As might be expected, the heart of the old Boardwalk Area is dominated by food and beverage,
                 amusements and retail sales. Structures in the Boardwalk Area tend to be one to two stories in height
                 and are small in scale. In many respects, the area is a throwback to earlier times with a predominant
                 1940's architectural style reminiscent of beach resort communities of that era. Building conditions in

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                                                              Land Classification


                   the Boardwalk Area vary from well kept to significantly deteriorating. Absentee ownership of
                   buildings runs at about 80 percent. Unfortunately, owners not investing in their structures work to the
                   detriment of those who are investing and do work to keep things'up. Recent years have seen investments
                   on the part of the Town of Carolina Beach in the Boardwalk Area. Improvements made by the Town
                   have included a new elevated boardwalk and streetscape improvements in the Boardwalk Area. The
                   new boardwalk structure, located just behind and above the frontal dune, has restored the opportunity
                   for visitors to once again view the ocean=a view that was lost when the protective dune system was
                   established in the 1960's.


                   The Central Business District, which generally surrounds the Boardwalk Area, has traditionally been
                   less intensively tourist oriented, but is becoming more so. Lake Park Boulevard has a mixture of retail
                   uses, lodging, restaurants and offices serving local resident and tourist needs. In keeping with
                   improvements made at the Boardwalk Area, the Town has been working to extend streetscape
                   improvements to Lake Park Boulevard as well. When completed, these improvements will include
                   planting islands and landscape materials to soften the appearance of the street and make street
                   crossing distances shorter and safer for pedestrians.

                   Zoning in the area is comprised of the A-I (Amusement District) specifically for the boardwalk area,
                   the B-1 (Central Business District) for the area surrounding, and the T-1 (Tourist District), for the
                   oceanfront hotel areas north and south of the Boardwalk. While the Boardwalk Area and Central
                   Business District sustain the most concentrated levels of use of anywhere at the beach, the tight,
                   interconnected network of streets, sidewalks, on-street and off-street parking areas is quite effective in
                   absorbing high levels of vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

                   Policy Emphasis:

                   The policy emphasis of this plan is to achieve two objectives: (1) Reestablish the family-oriented
                   market niche of the Boardwalk Area, and (2) Create a common architectural theme and sense of unity
                   to the Boardwalk Area and surrounding business areas, including especially, the Marina.

                   The first objective is to firmly reestablish the boardwalk area as a family attraction. Currently,
                   instead of projecting a clear image to the family market, the Boardwalk Area presents a split image,
                   part adult and part family. By returning the Boardwalk Area to a family-oriented market niche, it is
                   hoped that the Boardwalk Area can regain its economic potential. One opportunity to do this is
                   through the future sale and reuse of the old Town Hall complex and Police Station. This site should
                   undergo adaptive reuse or, if necessary, redeveloped with a use that supports the economic health of
                   the boardwalk area. (As discussed in the paragraph below, it should also be in keeping with the scale
                   and character of development in the area.)

                   The second objective is to create a common architectural theme and sense of unity between the
                   Boardwalk Area and surrounding business areas, including the Marin     'a. Implementation of the
                   architectural theme will require cooperation form area property owners and businesses. For its part, the
                   Town will continue to install streetscape enhancements within the Boardwalk Area itself, and between
                   the Boardwalk Area and surrounding areas. In particular, the area between the end of Woody Hewett
                   and the beginning of Canal Drive needs to have a sense of connectedness to the pedestrian. Assisting in
                   this continuous connection will be the addition of landscaping, street lighting and continuous sidewalk
                   improvements. Also helpful will be informational signage, including for example, kiosks with mounted
                   locator maps. At the same time, the Town may want to revisit the potential closing of Cape Fear
                   boulevard east of Lake Park Boulevard during some parts of the tourist year.

                   Consistent with both of the above objectives, the Town win not support nor allow proposals which
                   would displace the historic, pedestrian-oriented heart of its community with large-scale enterprises
                   and automobile oriented establishments (whether commercial or residential). To do so, would destroy
                   that which is unique to Carolina Beach alone on the North Carolina coast.

                                                                    Page 9-9






                                                             Land Classification



                  9.4.1.0 The South End


                  Description of Area Character

                  The South End begins where the Boardwalk Area ends at Hamlet Avenue. The South End then extends
                  all the way to the southern limit of the Town's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). From east to west the
                  South End area is quite narrow, extending only from the rear of lots fronting on the west side of Lake
                  Park Boulevard to the beach strand on the east. In some respects, the South End is comprised of two
                  quite different areas with distinctly different development patterns. The first area, extending from
                  Carolina Sands Avenue north to the Boardwalk Area, is less intensively developed. Zoning in this
                  part of the South End is in three parallel strips from west to east beginning with B-3 on the west side of
                  Lake Park Boulevard, T-1 on the east side of Lake Park Boulevard, and RA-5A along the ocean front.

                  The single family residences in this part of the beach tend to be traditional beach cottages owned by
                  long standing residents. This is an area of good high ground, allowing ground level residential
                  structures to have survived several hurricane events. Structures here tend to be one story on stilts or two
                  stories on the ground. Many of the older beach homes, especially those that are not up on stilts, do not
                  have sufficient parking and on-street parking is not allowed in the area. Some have speculated that
                  the presence of the T-1 district in this area has inhibited redevelopment of the first generation beach
                  cottages that persist in this area.

                  The second part of the South End begins where Carolina Beach Avenue South stops and continues on to
                  the southern limit of the Town's planning jurisdiction. This area is zoned in two parallel strips from
                  west to east: B-3 on the west side of Lake Park Boulevard and RA-5A along the ocean front. Some have
                  stated that the B-3 zoning district on the west side of Lake Park Boulevard may have had the effect of
                  preserving the oceanfront residential area across Lake Park Boulevard.

                  The RA-5A along the ocean front is almost entirely in intensive condominium type development. These
                  developments include Sea Colony, Pelican Watch, Salty Hammocks and Atlantic Towers. The three
                  high rises in this area are approximately ten stories in height. One is oriented toward transients and is
                  made up of efficiency units while the other two are more mixed in their market niche. Lot sizes,
                  originally platted at 5,000 square feet, were combined to make larger parcels for the development of
                  these high rises. The high rises have adequate parking underneath them.

                  There are approximately eleven beach access points in the area, with from three to six parking spaces
                  per access. Some of the underutilized properties in the B-3 district on the west side of Lake Park
                  Boulevard may have potential for off-street parking for day visitors. This area includes one or more
                  old gas stations, which if "cleared" of any underground storage tank problems, could serve well for this
                  use.


                  Policy Emphasis:

                  The policy emphasis of this plan is to allow for the retention and development of traditional single
                  family beach cottages at a scale compatible with the original homes, modest lot sizes and narrow street
                  rights- of-way in the area. The avoidance of single family "mini castles" packed onto small lots will
                  also help avoid fire safety problems related to fire spreading quickly from one large structure to the
                  next. Building heights of two to no more than three stores (total, from ground level) shall be considered
                  appropriate in this area. Multi-family development shall not be permitted in the northern part of the
                  South End. No additional high rise development, whether by new development or by increases in the
                  development intensity or scale at existing locations, shall be allowed. Development of commercially
                  zoned properties along Lake Park Boulevard should be oriented toward community and neighborhood
                  services. Consideration should be given to rezoning that portion of the area currently zoned T-1 to a
                  uniform RA-5A zoning designation. This may act to encourage healthy reinvestment in the area.


                                                                   Page 9-10






                                                            Land Classification


                     Urban Transition Neighborhood Areas

                   9.4.11 Wilmington/Hanby Beach

                   Description of Area Character

                   This area is an unincorporated area just south of the current Town limits. The area generally extends
                   from Carolina Sands Drive on the north to the limits of the Town's extra territorial jurisdiction at
                   Alabama Avenue or, the south. Despite the name given here, this area does not include the
                   corresponding beachfront area, referred to elsewhere in this document as the South End. Due to its
                   unique characteristics, the South End beach front will be addressed as a separate planning area.

                   From a land planning standpoint, the physical layout of the streets in this area are similar in form and
                   scale to the Main Residential area of Carolina Beach. Platted lots are 5,000 square feet on a grid iron
                   street system. Also, like the Main Residential area, this area also has good ground elevation.
                   Therefore, most homes have been built or placed at ground level rather than elevated on stilts.

                   In contrast to the Main Residential area, however, the Wilmington/ Hanby Beach area has been zoned
                   RA-5T, permitting manufactured housing (mobile homes) on 5,000 square foot lots. A survey of land uses
                   in this area revealed that perhaps 75 percent of all developed lots in the Wilmington/ Hanby Beach
                   area are occupied by manufactured homes. Most undeveloped portions of the area are heavily wooded,
                   in maritime forest. Some areas are comprised of freshwater wetlands.

                   While there is no on-street parking permitted in the area, it is not enforced. A lack of convenient
                   services nearby, combined with light vehicular traffic on area streets, would not appear to call for
                   sidewalks in the area in the near future.

                   This area has been slated for annexation by the Town of Carolina Beach. Currently, development is at
                   a standstill due to the lack of municipal water and sewer service and severe septic tank limitations. To
                   prepare for annexation, the Town has established a capital reserve account for the purposes of
                   providing municipal services to this area. The Town contributes to the special capital reserve account
                   each year. However, annexation action has been tabled until service needs and infrastructure repairs
                   within the current town limits have been addressed.


                   Policy Emphasis:

                   The Town will continue to plan ahead for the future annexation of this area. In keeping with this
                   objective, the Town shall continue to annually set aside funds necessary to complete the installation of
                   municipal water, sewer and other services upon annexation of the area. Over the long term, the Town
                   may consider a rezoning of the area for an eventual transition from a predon-dnance of manufactured
                   housing to a predominance of traditional single family (site built) development. This should be done in
                   a manner which does not penalize current property owners or residents, but rather allows for the
                   transition to occur as properties are sold and redeveloped over time. As the area develops, strong
                   measures should be taken to retain maritime forest and wetland areas.


                   9 Conservation Areas


                   Purpose

                   The purpose of the Conservation class is to provide for the effective long-term management and
                   protection of significant limited or irreplaceable areas. Management of these areas is needed due to the
                   natural, cultural, recreational, scenic or natural productive values of both local and more than local
                   concern.


                                                                   Page 9-11






                                                           Land Classification



                  Description of Area Character

                  Within the planning jurisdiction of the Town of Carolina Beach, the Conservation class includes all
                  estuarine system and ocean hazard AEC's (Areas of Environmental Concern) as associated with the
                  Atlantic Ocean, the intracoastal waterway, (including Snow's Cut), Myrtle Grove Sound and the
                  various channels and marshes surrounding Carolina Beach Lake. Also included in this classification are
                  all State and Federally controlled lands associated with Carolina Beach State Park and the Buffer
                  Zone for the Sunny Point Military Ocean Terminal.

                  Policy Emphasis:

                  The policy emphasis of this plan for Conservation areas shall be to protect the natural integrity and
                  functioning of these areas, as well as in providing open space and visual relief. Approved uses shall be
                  in accordance with CAMA General Use Standards, with priority given to direct and indirect public
                  access having a minimal impact on the natural functioning of these systems. The Town shall also
                  maintain an on-going concern for the preservation of views and vistas to these areas, by carefully
                  controlling development along the water's edge which would serve to block or wall off the public from
                  these valuable scenic and recreational resources. (Also see specific policy statements for specific areas
                  within the Conservation Classification, e.g. 8.1.4 J Carolina Beach Lake, 8.1.4 K Sunny Point Buffer
                  Zone, 8.1.4 L Carolina Beach State Park, 8.1.4 M Snow's Cut (AIWW) Right of Way and Spoil Area
                  etc.)




































                                                                Page 9-12






                                                        Intergovernmental Coordination
                   10. Inter overnmental Coordination"

                   10.1 Uses of the Land Use Plan

                   The Carolina Beach Land Use Plan, including the policy statements and the land classification map,
                   will serve to coordinate numerous policies, standards, regulations, and other governmental activities at
                   the local, State and Federal levels. Such coordination is achieved in three ways:

                           1. State and Federal government agencies are required to review local land use plans when
                           considering any actions or activities under their jurisdiction. Their actions are to be consistent
                           whenever possible, with the intent of the local land use plan.

                           2. The policies and land classification system described in the land use plan provide a basis for
                           planning and budgeting for the provision of public facilities and services such as water and
                           sewer systems, roads and schools.

                           3. The land use plan can serve as a coordinating instrument in helping to bring together the
                           various regulatory policies and decisions of the local government into one document.

                   At Carolina Beach, all three categories of coordination were employed during development of the plan,
                   and will continue to be employed until the next plan update is prepared in approximately five years.
                   As such, the information contained in the plan serves as a benchmark for the condition of the Town in
                   1996, and a baseline from which.to measure change over time.

                   10.2 Coordination With Other Governmental jurisdictions

                   The preparation of the Carolina Beach Land Use Plan and Policies has proceeded in a manner which
                   recognizes the growth issues and planning activities of other local government jurisdictions, as well as
                   State and Federal agencies. In preparing the plan, the policies and land classification designations of
                   the Wilmington-New Hanover CAMA Land Use Plan for the nearby Masonboro Sound area were
                   reviewed, In addition, The Town has been actively engaged in certain joint local government issues
                   specifically relevant to the land use plan throughout its development. These issues have included, for
                   example, joint meetings to address the NC DOT Transportation Improvement Program, the jet ski issue,
                   and storm-related emergency evacuation and re-entry, among others. Consideration was also given to
                   the joint Carolina Beach-Kure Beach Thoroughfare Plan, prepared in 1992.

                   State and local representatives involved in population projections, marine fisheries, water quality
                   monitoring, and local zoning were also consulted. Federal authorities in charge of wetlands
                   identification, channel maintenance, and flood insurance were contacted. Further, within Town
                   government, representatives of the following local goverrunent functions were consulted and involved in
                   plan preparation: Town Administration, Fire Protection, Police, Parks and Recreation, Planning, and
                   Public Works.















                                                                     Page 10-1






                                                     Public Participation Plan and Process
                   11. Public Participation Plan and Process
                   11.1 Public Participation Plan,

                   Introduction


                   Since its inception, North Carolina's Coastal Area Management Act Program has placed a high level
                   of empha5i5 on public participation in the development of local land use plans and policies. The intent
                   is to insure that the resulting plan and policies reflect, as closely as possible, the will of the people in
                   the community.

                   Meaningful public involvement was an important element in preparing an updated land use plan for the
                   Town of Carolina Beach. For the public involvement program to be effective, two key factors were
                   included:
                           1) public education and
                           2) public input.

                   The most effective format for public involvement includes this two-way communication between
                   citizens and local officials.


                   The public involvement strategy employed for the Carolina Beach Land Use Plan provided numerous
                   opportunities for effective communication. First and foremost was the appointment of the Town
                   Planning Board as the Steering Committee for the Plan. The Planning Board is appointed by the Town
                   Council and represents various interests and geographic areas of the community.

                   The Planning Board had an active, leadership role throughout the preparation of the Land Use Plan.
                   The Committee's role was particularly critical during the formulation of the Land Use Policies and the
                   Land Classification Map. In this capacity, the Planning Board offered local perspectives, providing
                   input on the accuracy of information gathered, and feedback on the policies as they developed. All
                   Planning Board meetings were open to the public and several, jointly hosted with the Town Council,
                   were designed specifically to garner public input in an organized, constructive fashion.

                   The following is a summary of program phases and key meetings for public involvement in the
                   preparation of the Town of Carolina Beach Land Use Plan:

                   11.2 Public Involvement Process

                   1. Strategy Development and Public Participation Plan

                   The first priority in carrying out the public participation strategy for the Land Use Plan was to meet
                   with key local officials to discuss and receive approval of the planning process for citizen involvement.
                   During this phase, the planning consultant, the Town Staff, the Planning Board and the Town Council
                   each had a constructive role in preparing, reviewing, and approving the proposed planning and public
                   involvement strategy. Also, State concerns, suggestions, and requirements for the planning process were
                   conveyed to the Town staff and officials during a special presentation made by a representative of the
                   Division of Coastal Management.

                   2. Issue Identification by the Public (Town-Wide Meeting No. 1)

                   Issue identification for the Land Use Plan consisted of a major Town meeting held at Carolina Beach
                   Elementary School. Efforts were made to schedule the meeting date so as to obtain public exposure and
                   media attention. The meeting was jointly hosted by the Planning Board and the Town Council. Special


                                                                     Page 11 -1






                                                  Public Participation Plan and Process


                  meeting announcements were prepared and efforts were made to distribute them within the community.
                  Announcements were also sent to local news media.

                  The purpose of this meeting was to provide the public with the opportunity to make their concerns
                  known about growth and development issues facing the Town. The intent was to accomplish this task as
                  early as possible in the planning process, so that these concerns might be recorded and used as a
                  foundation for the preparation of the Plan.

                  The specific involvement technique used to solicit public input was a modified nominal group process
                  using index cards and display sheets. Following the identification of issues, the relative priority of
                  each issue was identified by a simple voting process. After the meeting was completed, all issues were
                  typed up exactly as recorded and sorted into policy categories consistent, to the extent possible, with
                  subject areas compatible with the CAMA guidelines. The complete listing and ranking of all issues as
                  identified at the meeting was then presented to the Planning Board for discussion and review. This
                  written tabulation of growth issues was also made available for public information and review.

                  3. Discussion of Public Input and Growth Factors

                  Based in part on the issues identified during Phases 1 and 2 above, and in keeping with the data
                  collection and analysis requirements of the CAMA land use planning guidelines, a growth factors
                  analysis was conducted for discussion by the Planning Board. To complete this task, the Planning Board
                  reviewed and discussed a variety of growth issues facing the Town. As a result of the review,
                  additional research was conducted to address specific comments and points felt to be in need of
                  clarification.


                  4. Policy Development Work Sessions with Planning Board

                  With the results of the initial public input in hand, and with the major findings of the Growth Factors
                  Analysis complete, the consulting planner, working closely with the Town planning staff and Planning
                  Board, prepared a draft set of land use policies. The format for reviewing the draft policies involved
                  several lengthy work sessions designed to give the Planning Board the opportunity to review the
                  Town's existing policies and to compare them to the set of proposed policies. These work sessions were
                  beneficial in identifying draft policies most in need of modification, deletion or addition. Based on the
                  direction received during these work sessions, the consulting planner then prepared a revised set of
                  draft Polices for public review.

                  5. Public Open House on Draft Policies and Land Classification System (Town-Wide Meeting No. 2)

                  Once a set of draft land use policies were in place, the Planning Board co-hosted, with the Town
                  Council, an open public meeting at the Carolina Beach Recreation Center to receive public input and
                  comment on the work to date. To facilitate efficient and equitable input from the public, the draft
                  policies were enlarged on poster sized sheets and arranged on the walls of the meeting room in a "walk-
                  around questionnaire" format. The public was then invited to circulate around the room expressing their
                  level of agreement or disagreement with each policy statement as well as being able to provide
                  additional written comments on the sheets. Also, Planning Board members were positioned around the
                  room at the various stations to allow for informal discussions regarding the various policies, or to
                  clarify technical terms or issues. This meeting was well attended and quite productive.

                  6. Joint Meeting Between Planning Board and Town Council to Discuss Draft Policies and Public
                  Comments Received

                  A joint work session on the draft policies and land classification system was held to provide the
                  opportunity for the Planning Board and Town Council to meet in a round table discussion. The purpose of
                  the meeting was not to formally adopt the plan, but rather to seek consensus as to the adequacy of the


                                                                 Page 11-2






                                                   Public Participation Plan and Process


                   policies for formal public review, and generally, for submission to the CAMA program staff. While this
                   meeting was also open to the public, its primary intent was to allow the two boards to concentrate their
                   time and attention on the draft policies, rather than on receiving additional public input at this time.

                   7. Completion of Draft Land Use Plan for Public Review

                   After the joint work session on the draft plan was completed, appropriate revisions to the policies were
                   made in accordance with directives received from the two boards during the round table discussion.
                   Also, explanatory narrative was prepared as background for each policy section of the plan, and
                   incorporated into a complete draft of plan, combining all sections prepared to date. Also included in
                   this draft was the Implementation Actions section. Unlike the Town's previous 'land use plans,
                   however, this plan section was prepared as a separate element, allowing this section to be updated on
                   an annual basis without altering the balance of the plan. A formal public meeting (courtesy hearing)
                   was then scheduled by the Town Council to accept public comment on the full plan.

                   8. Public Comment Meeting /Follow-up Review Session (Town-Wide Meeting No. 3)

                   A formal public meeting (courtesy hearing) was then scheduled by the Town Council for December 10,
                   1996 to accept public comment on the full plan. Notification for the meeting included an announcement
                   printed in the newspaper of general circulation as well as regular notification through the public
                   meetings notification process. All comments received at the meeting, whether favorable, neutral or
                   negative, were noted for the record and for further action as appropriate. Once public comments were
                   accepted and recorded, the Town Council provided direction as to those changes that would be
                   appropriate before sending the draft plan on to the State for review. Plan revisions were then
                   completed in accordance with directives received.

                   9. State Review and Comment/ Prepare Revisions As Appropriate

                   Following additional revisions to the plan in accordance with directives received from the Planning
                   Board and Town Council, the plan was sent to the State CAMA program staff for review and comment in
                   mid-December, 1996. Comments were received from the State in mid-February, 1997. The consulting
                   planner then prepared suggested revisions to the Plan for review by the Planning Board. The Planning
                   Board approved the changes at a meeting held on February 27, 1997.

                   The Town Council of Carolina Beach, at a special meeting on March 24, 1997, then reviewed and
                   approved the revisions as authorized by the Planning Board, and suggested additional changes. The
                   Town Council then met on April 8, 1997, approved the changes as made, and set a date for a formal
                   public hearing on the land use plan, as required, no less than 30 days hence. The public hearing was set
                   for May 13, 1997.

                   10. Town Council Adoption of Plan (Town-Wide Meeting No. 4/Public Hearing)

                   The Town Council held a formal public hearing on May 13, 1997 to present the plan for a final time for
                   public review and comment. Notice of the meeting was in accordance with requirements for public
                   hearings for the local adoption of CAMA Land Use Plans, as well as the Town's normal protocol.
                   Hearing no comments from the public requiring changes to the plan, the Town Council then formally
                   adopted the plan as submitted for the public hearing. The plan was then submitted to the Coastal
                   Resources Commission for certification by that body.

                   11. Coastal Resources Commission Certification

                   The officially adopted Town of Carolina Beach Land Use Plan was submitted to the North Carolina
                   Coastal Resources Commission for certification by that body at their regular meeting on May 29, 1997.



                                                                 Page 11-3






                                                 Ptiblic Participation Plan and Process


                 11.3 Summary of Meetings Held During Planning Process

                 The following phases and meetings correspond to the phases of the public involvement process
                 described above.

                 1. Strategy Development/ Public Participation Plan

                     1/4/96      Planning Board         Town Hall          Discuss CAMA land use planning

                     1/16/96     Planning Board         Town Hall          Discuss upcoming Town Meeting

                 2. Issue Identification by the Public (Town-Wide Meeting No. 1)

                     1/17/96     Ping Brd /Twn Council C.B. Elem School    Town Meeting to identify issues

                 3. Discussion of Public Input and Growth Factors

                     2/22/96     Planning Board         Town Hall          Review of Citizen Input
                                                                           Overview of Plan
                     2/26/96     Town Staff             Town Hall          Monitoring/ Progress meeting with State
                                                                           representative
                     3/27/96     Planning Board         Town Hall          Review of Growth Factors Analysis
                                                                           Discuss Land Classification


                 4. Policy Development Work Sessions with Planning Board

                     6/7/96      Town Staff             Town Hall          Monitoring/ Progress meeting with State
                                                                           representative
                     7/24/96     Planning Board         Town Hall          Review Draft Policies
                                                                           Review Neighborhoods
                     7/31/96     Planning Board         Town Hall          Review Draft Policies
                                                                           Review Neighborhoods
                     8/14/96     Planning Board         Town Hall          Review Draft Policies
                                                                           Review Neighborhoods

                 5. Public Open House on Draft Policies and Land Classification System (Town-Wide Meeting No. 2)

                     8/21/96     Plng Brd/Twn Council C.B.Rec.Center       Town Meeting to Review Policies

                 6. Joint Meeting Between Planning Board and Town Council to Discuss Draft Policies and Public
                     Comments Received


                     10/24/96 Ping Brd/Twn Council Town Hall               Joint Meeting to Review Draft Policies and
                                                                           Public Input on Policies
                 7. Completion of Draft Land Use Plan for Public Review

                     No public meetings; writing and editing completed during this time.

                 8. Public Comment Meeting /Follow-up Review Session (Town-Wide Meeting No. 3)

                     12/10/96 Town Council              Town Hall          Public courtesy hearing to receive public
                                                                           input on the completed draft plan; submit
                                                                           preliminary plan to State for comment



                                                               Page 11-4






                                                   Ptiblic Participation Plan and Process



                  9. Review of State Comments Received and Revisions Made

                      2/27/97     Planning Board          Town Hall          Review comments and revisions to the plan;
                                                                             approve changes; forward to Town Council
                      3/24/97     Town Council            Town Hall          Review comments and revisions to Plan;
                                                                             suggest changes

                  10. Public Hearing (Town-Wide Meeting No. 4/ Town Council Adoption of Plan)

                      4/8/97      Town Council            Town Hall          Approve completed changes; set date for
                                                                             formal public hearing
                      5/13/97     Town Council            Town Hall          Public hearing by the Town Council to
                                                                             receive public comments. Adopted the land
                                                                             use plan.
                  11. Coastal Resources Commission Certification

                      5/29/97     Coastal Resources Conu-nission             Regular meeting to certify the Plan





































                                                                 Page 11-5






                                                                 Appendices

                   12. Appendices

                   12.1 Evaluation of Effectiveness of Previous Land Use Plan

                   While the previous land use plan contained much detailed information about existing conditions in the
                   Town, its effectiveness as an instrument of local government policy was limited. Three specific
                   shortcomings of that plan, and measures taken in this land use plan update to correct those deficiencies
                   are outlined as follows:


                   Plan Deficiency:
                   a The policy section of the Town's previous land use plan had few discrete policy statements. Rather,
                   this section consisted of a running narrative within which the reader may or may not have found
                   statements which reflect the Town's official position on a given issue

                   Corrective action taken for this plan update:
                   For each policy area, a discrete policy statement consisting of no more than one or two sentences has been
                   developed to clearly state the Town's position on that issue. Further, each policy statement has been
                   assigned a unique policy reference number so that specific policies can be easily referenced in evaluating
                   development proposals, rezoning petitions, etc. brought before the Planning Board and the Town
                   Council.


                   Plan Deficiency:
                   9 The Town's previous land use plan had implementation actions scattered throughout the document.
                   Implementation actions are a fundamental requirement of the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA)
                   guidelines for land use plans. Implementation actions provide the Town with an agreed upon strategy
                   for carrying out the Policies. As such, it is important that the Plan's implementation actions be
                   organized in such a way so as to assess the Town's effectiveness in carrying out implementation actions.

                   Corrective action taken for this plan update:
                   A new section of the land use plan has been created which brings together in one place all suggested
                   implementation actions designed to carry out the policies. Rather than scattering these actions
                   throughout the text of the Policies, this section provides an appropriate means of clearly organizing all
                   potential actions for convenient review and use. A further benefit of this approach is that the action
                   section may be updated on a regular basis (e.g. annually in conjunction with the Town's budget process)
                   without changing the policy portion of the plan. If the document is maintained in a three ring binder
                   for frequent users of the plan, the previous year's action agenda may be simply removed and a new
                   section inserted. This approach should make monitoring of the plan's implementation easier as well.

                   Plan Deficiency:
                   * The format of the previous land use plan's land classification system offered limited policy guidance.
                   The Land Classification Map prepared for the last land use plan was quite general. Essentially, it
                   conformed to the general land classes of the CAMA guidelines. As such, it is best suited to a County-
                   wide setting, where broader policy considerations may be involved.

                   Corrective action taken for this plan update:
                   For the 1996 land use plan, the Land Classification Map has been restructured to differentiate between
                   the various unique neighborhoods in the Town that have similar design, function, age, and/or
                   character. Policy positions were then formulated and included in the Land Use Plan to help the Town
                   maintain the distinguishable neighborhood qualities unique to each of these neighborhood areas.
                   These policy positions, in turn, provide consistent guidance to Town Officials in applying the rules of
                   the Town's zoning ordinance to specific developments.



                                                                   Page 12-1






                                               Appendices


             12.2 Sources and Locations of Additional Information

             To find out more about various aspects of land use and development at Carolina Beach, the interested
             citizen is invited to visit the Town offices where a variety of studies, plans, maps, aerial photographs
             and booklets are maintained on file.

             12.3 Action Agenda For the Carolina Beach Land Use Plan

             Introduction to the Action Agenda

             The Action Agenda of the Carolina Beach Land Use Plan is provided to identify specific
             implementation actions in furtherance of the Town's development policies. (For a complete
             listing of the full policy statements associated with each issue, see Section I Executive
             Summary or Section 8 Policies) These actions are normally intended to be accomplished within
             the five year planning period between adoption of this plan and the next land use plan update
             (scheduled for 2001).

             Implementation actions are designed to suggest possible courses of action available to the Town to carry
             out the Policies. In some instances, a single implementation action may be listed in support of more than
             one policy. In other instances, where the Town is already implementing a policy , an on-going program
             of implementation may be mentioned. In still others, a particular policy may not warrant or require a
             specific implementation action to be effective.

             The suggested actions are not all-inclusive nor are they binding; additional actions may be added and
             others removed as conditions change. In fact, it is suggested that this summary of policies and
             implementation actions be reviewed on an annual basis during development of the Town's work program
             and budget approval process. In this manner, the effectiveness of the policies and implementation
             actions can be better evaluated. Further, by making this Action Agenda a separate section of the plan
             (as opposed to scattering the implementation actions throughout the text of the plan), these actions can
             be updated and re-inserted into the document on a regular basis.

                             Policy Area                      Implementation Action(s)

             OVERALL COMMUNITY VISION


             Policy 8.0 General Vision Policy for Next Ten Years Action 8.0 The Town staff, Planning
                                                             Board, and Town Council shall
                                                             employ the policies contained in this
                                                             land use plan on a routine basis in
                                                             evaluating building proposals and
                                                             other matters concerning growth and
             RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICIES                    development.

             Policy 8.1.0 Bask Policy Statement Regarding Resource See specific Implementation Actions
             Protection                                      listed below as they pertain to
                                                             specific policy issues.







                                                Page 12-2






                                                                 Appendices


                   Policy 8.1.1 Constraints Caused By Soil Limitations and Flood     Action 8.1.1 (1) The Town shall study
                   Prone Areas                                                       the issue of impervious surfaces
                                                                                     related to new construction and
                                                                                     redevelopment with an eye toward
                                                                                     minimizing paved surfaces which
                                                                                     would increase runoff onto adjacent
                                                                                     properties or into estuarine waters.

                                                                                     Action 8.1.1 (2) Recognizing the
                                                                                     critical role of the National Flood
                                                                                     insurance Program in protecting
                                                                                     private property and lives at
                                                                                     Carolina Beach, the Town shall
                                                                                     continue to strictly enforce ordinance
                                                                                     provisions which bring structures into
                                                                                     compliance with the Town's flood
                                                                                     plain protection standards.
                   Policy 8.1.2 Areas Of Environmental Concern                       Action 8.1.2 The Town shall continue'
                                                                                     to administer the CAMA Minor
                                                                                     Permit Program in accordance with
                                                                                     CAMA standards for Areas of
                   Policy 8.1.2 A Coastal Wetlands                                   Environmental Concern.

                   Policy 8.1.2 B Estuarine Waters

                   Policy 8.1.2 C Public Trust Areas                                 Action 8.1.2 C (1) The Town shall
                                                                                     develop a water itse and harbor
                                                                                     management plan to address the
                                                                                     competing interests for use of public
                                                                                     trust waters at Carolina Beach.


                                                                                     Action 8.1.2 C (2) The Town shall
                                                                                     continue to participate on the special
                                                                                     local goverrunent committee
                                                                                     appointed to address the management
                                                                                     and proper regulation of jet skis and
                                                                                     similar personal watercraft.

                                                                                     Action 8.1.2 C (3) The Town shall
                                                                                     continue to enforce the building
                                                                                     limitations of the Town pierhead
                                                                                     line.



                   Policy 8.1.2 D Estuarine Shorelines

                   Policy 8.1.2 E Ocean Hazard Areas

                   Policy 8.1.4 A Freshwater Wetlands




                                                                   Page 12-3






                                                                   Appendices


                   Policy 8.1.4 B Maritime Forests, Tree Cover, and Landscaping         Action 8.1.4 B (1) The Town shall
                                                                                        work with the New Hanover County
                                                                                        Agricultural Extension Service and
                                                                                        utility companies to reduce tree
                                                                                        trimming damage.

                                                                                        Action 8.1.4 B (2) The Town shall
                                                                                        investigate participation in the Tree
                                                                                        City USA program.

                                                                                        Action 8.1.4 B (3) The Town shall
                                                                                        continue to enforce and improve upon
                                                                                        the Town Landscape Ordinance,
                                                                                        adopted in 1992.


                   Policy 8.1.4 C Outstanding Resource Water Areas

                   Policy 8.1.4 D Shellfishing Waters

                   Policy 8.1.4 E Water Supply Areas and Other Waters with              Action 8.1.4 E The Town shall
                   Special Values                                                       undertake an organized program to
                                                                                        evaluate, plan and implement on-
                                                                                        going improvements and repairs to
                                                                                        the Town's water supply system,
                                                                                        while also exploring alternative
                                                                                        sources of Water.


                   Policy 8.1.4 F Cultural and Historic Resources                       Action 8.1.4 F The Town shall
                                                                                        continue to support the work of the
                                                                                        Federal Point Historic Preservation
                                                                                        Society in its efforts to preserve
                                                                                        historic structures and sites south of
                   8.1.4 G Man-Made Hazards                                             Snow's Cut.

                   8.1.4 H Myrtle Grove Sound and Cape Fear River                       Action 8.1.4 H The Town shall study
                                                                                        the issue of impervious surfaces
                                                                                        related to new construction and
                                                                                        redevelopment with an eye toward
                                                                                        minin-dzing paved surfaces which
                                                                                        would increase runoff onto adjacent
                                                                                        properties or into estuarine waters.

                   Policy 8.1.4 1 North End Natural Area                                Action 8.1.4 1 The Town shall
                                                                                        continue to support restrictions on
                                                                                        vehicular traffic to the ocean side of
                                                                                        the dune line in the North End
                                                                                        Natural Area.









                                                                     Page 12-4






                                                               Appendices


                  Policy 8.1.4 J Carolina Beach Lake                              Action 8.1.4 J The Town shall continue
                                                                                  to support the activities of the
                                                                                  Coastal Land Trust in seeking tax
                                                                                  deductible donations of property
                                                                                  adjacent to the lake for permanently
                                                                                  dedicated public open space.

                  Policy 8.1A K Sunny Point Buffer Zone                           Action 8.1.4 K (1) The Town shall
                                                                                  continue to work cooperatively with
                                                                                  the U.S. Department of the Army to
                                                                                  limit land use activities within the
                                                                                  Sunny Point Military Ocean Terminal
                                                                                  Buffer Area.


                                                                                  Action 8.1.4 K (2) The Town shall
                                                                                  work cooperatively with the U.S.
                                                                                  Department of the Army and the
                                                                                  Town of Kure Beach to prohibit the
                                                                                  use of off-road vehicles and illegal
                                                                                  dumping within the Sunny Point
                                                                                  Military Ocean Terminal Buffer
                                                                                  Area.


                  Policy 8.1.4 L Carolina Beach State Park                        Action 8.1.4 L The Town shall work
                                                                                  cooperatively with the State of
                                                                                  North Carolina in the long term
                                                                                  management and use of Carolina
                                                                                  Beach State Park.



                  Policy 8.1.4 M Snow's Cut (AIWW) Right of Way and Spoil         Action 8.1.4 M The Town shall
                  Area                                                            continue to work cooperatively with
                                                                                  the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
                                                                                  regarding the long term management
                                                                                  and use of the Snow's Cut spoil
                                                                                  deposition easement of the Atlantic
                                                                                  Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW).

                  Policy 8.1.5 Protection Of Potable Water Supply                 Action 8.1.5 The Town shall
                                                                                  undertake an organized program to
                                                                                  evaluate, plan and implement on-
                                                                                  going improvements and repairs to
                                                                                  the Town's water supply system,
                                                                                  while also exploring alternative
                                                                                  sources of water.


                  Policy 8.1.6 Package Sewage Treatment Plants









                                                                 Page 12-5






                                                                   Appendices


                   Policy 8.1.7 Storm Water Runoff                                     Action 8.1.7 The Town shall continue
                                                                                       to implement its development review
                                                                                       program: "Permit for Removal of
                                                                                       Vegetation, Increased Impervious
                                                                                       Area, or Placement of Fill Soil or
                                                                                       Other Materials", employing the 10-
                                                                                       year storm as the standard for on-site
                                                                                       retention of stormwater runoff.


                   Policy 8.1.8 A Marinas                                              Action 8.1.8 A As part of its water use
                                                                                       and harbor management plan (See
                                                                                       Action 8.1'*2 c (1)), the Town shall
                                                                                       address the location, size, and
                                                                                       operation of wet slip marinas.

                   Policy 8.1.8 11 Floating Home Development                           Action 8.1.8 B As part of its water use
                                                                                       and harbor management plan (See
                                                                                       Action 8.1.2 c (1)), and through its
                                                                                       general zoning powers, the Town
                                                                                       shall enforce policies which prohibit
                                                                                       floating homes from occupying
                                                                                       limited public trust water areas.

                   Policy 8.1.8 C Moorings and Mooring Fields                          Action 8.1.8 C As part of its water use
                                                                                       and harbor management plan (See
                                                                                       Action 8.1.2 c (1)), the Town shall
                                                                                       address the location and design of
                                                                                       moorings and mooring fields.

                   Policy 8.1.8 D Dry Stack Storage                                    Action 8.1.8 D As part of its water use
                                                                                       and harbor management plan (See
                                                                                       Action 8.1.2 c (1)), and through its
                                                                                       general zoning powers, the Town
                                                                                       shall enforce policies which prohibit
                                                                                       additional dry stack storage
                                                                                       f acilities.

                   Policy 8.1.8 E Commercial Fishing Dockage                           Action 8.1.8 E As part of its water use
                                                                                       and harbor management plan the
                                                                                       Town shall address the location and
                                                                                       operation of commercial fishing
                                                                                       dockage.

                   Policy 8.1.9 Industrial Impacts On Fragile Areas

                   Policy 8.1.10 Development Of Sound and Estuarine System
                   Islands


                   Policy 8.1.11 Development Within Areas That Might Be
                   Susceptible To Sea Level Rise

                   Policy 8.1.12 Upland Excavation For Marina Basins

                   Policy 8.1.13 Marsh Damage From Bulkhead Installation


                                                                    Page 12-6






                                                                   Appendices



                    Policy 8.1.14 Water Quality Problems and Management                 Action 8.1.14 The Town shall'continue
                    Measures                                                            to enforce existing stormwater
                                                                                        retention standards in its reviews of
                                                                                        new developments. (See Action 8.1.7)

                    RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES


                    Policy 8.2.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Resource              Action 8.2.0 The Town shall request a
                    Production and Management                                           meeting with state water quality
                                                                                        monitoring officials to receive an
                                                                                        update on (1) water quality conditions
                                                                                        in waters surrounding Carolina
                                                                                        Beach, (2) monitoring programs,. and
                                                                                        to identify significant water quality
                    Policy 8.2.1 Productive Agricultural Lands                          issues.

                    Policy 8.2.2 Commercial Forest Lands

                    Policy 8.2.3 Mineral Production Areas-Existing and Potential

                    Policy 8.2.4 Fisheries Resources (Commercial and                    Action 8.2.4 The Town shall, through
                    Recreational)                                                       proclamation and public awareness,
                                                                                        assist in promoting the annual Big
                                                                                        Sweep clean-up.

                    Policy 8.2.5 Off Road Vehicles                                      Action 8.2.5 Actions to enforce the use
                                                                                        or prohibition of off-road vehicles in
                                                                                        the Sunny Point Military Terminal
                                                                                        Buffer Area, the north end of
                                                                                        Carolina Beach, and the beach
                                                                                        strand, generally, shall continue to be
                                                                                        supported.

                    Policy 8.2.6 Development Impacts                                    Action 8.2.6 The Town shall conduct a
                                                                                        review of its development standards
                                                                                        to identify and prevent potential
                                                                                        adverse impacts on natural and scenic
                                                                                        resources at Carolina Beach.


                    ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICIES


                    Policy 8.3.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Economic &
                    Community Growth & Development

                    Policy 8.3.0 A Growth of Town's jurisdiction                        Action 8.3.0 A The Town shall
                                                                                        continue to budget for the eventual
                                                                                        extension of municipal services to the
                                                                                        Wilmington and Hanby Beach Areas.





                                                                     Page 12-7






                                                              Appendices


                 Policy 8.3.0 B Building Height                                  Action 8.3.0 B The Town shall
                                                                                 undertake ordinance revisions to
                                                                                 clarify building height measurements
                                                                                 and standards as desired in various
                                                                                 zoning districts within the
                                                                                 community.


                 Policy 8.3.1 Industries Desired and Local Assets Desirable to
                 Such Industries


                 Policy 8.3.2 Provision of Services to Development, Generally    Action 8.3.2 (1) The Town shall
                                                                                 review and update fees associated
                                                                                 with water and sewer extensions and
                                                                                 hook-ups.

                                                                                 Action 8.3.2 (2) The Town shall
                                                                                 approve of new developments only in
                                                                                 conjunction with an understanding of
                                                                                 adequate facilities to serve that new
                                                                                 development.

                 Policy 8.3.2 A Potable Water Supply                             Action 8.3.2 A The Town shall
                                                                                 continue to repair, upgrade and
                                                                                 enhance the existing water supply
                                                                                 system, and shall explore
                                                                                 alternatives for supplementing the
                                                                                 existing system.

                 Policy 8.3.2 B Wastewater Treatment and Disposal                Action 8.3.2 B Planned expansions of
                                                                                 the Town's sewage treatment plant
                                                                                 and repairs to older sewage collection
                                                                                 lines shall continue to be a top
                                                                                 priority action item for the next five
                                                                                 years.

                 Policy 8.3.2 C Solid Waste Disposal                             Action 8.3.2 C The Town shall
                                                                                 explore the feasibility of increasing
                                                                                 its recycling capabilities for
                                                                                 residential and commercial customers.


                 Policy 8.3.3 Urban Growth Pattern Desired                       Action 8.3.3 The Town shall
                                                                                 implement those plans, including the
                                                                                 Boardwalk Area Redevelopment
                                                                                 Plan, and the Town Bikeway Plan,
                                                                                 which seek to reinforce the
                                                                                 pedestrian scaled, family-oriented
                                                                                 community.









                                                                Page 12-8






                                                             Appendices


                 Policy 8.3.4 Types of Residential Development Desired           Action 8.3.4 (1) The Town shall not
                                                                                 approve of developments which
                                                                                 would create a disproportionate
                                                                                 share of multi-family housing units
                                                                                 at Carolina Beach relative to the
                                                                                 rate of on-going additions of single
                                                                                 family units.

                                                                                 Action 8.3.4 (2) The Town shall
                                                                                 explore the feasibility of amending
                                                                                 the zoning ordinance to reduce
                                                                                 allowable development densities in
                                                                                 the community, including
                                                                                 particularly, the RA-6A and RA-5A
                                                                                 districts.


                 Policy 8.3.5 Types of Commercial Development Desired            Action 8.3.5 The Town shall amend
                                                                                 the zoning ordinance and signage
                                                                                 standards to encourage tasteful
                                                                                 entryway corridor development along
                                                                                 north Lake Park Blvd. and
                                                                                 appropriate pedestrian-scaled
                                                                                 development in the central business
                                                                                 district, boardwalk and marina area.

                 Policy 8.3.6 Redevelopment, Including Relocation of             Action 8.3.6 The Town shall continue
                 Threatened Structures                                           to enforce provisions of the State
                                                                                 minimum housing code to require
                                                                                 owners of delinquent structures to
                 Policy 8.3.7 Commitment to State and Federal Programs           make appropriate repairs.

                 Policy 8.3.8 A Assistance to Channel Maintenance, Including     Action 8.3.8 A The Town shall
                 Interstate Waterways                                            continue to work cooperatively with
                                                                                 the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
                                                                                 regarding the long term management
                                                                                 and use of the Snow's Cut spoil
                                                                                 deposition easement of the Atlantic
                                                                                 Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW).

                 Policy 8.3.8 B Beach Maintenance                                Action 8.3.8 B (1) The Town shall, as
                                                                                 part of its capital improvement
                                                                                 planning process, budget appropriate
                                                                                 funds necessary to support on-going
                                                                                 beach renourishment at Carolina
                                                                                 Beach


                                                                                 Action 8.3.8 H (2) The Town shall
                                                                                 support the on-going use of room tax
                                                                                 revenues with priority for beach
                                                                                 renourishment.

                 Policy 8.3.9 Energy Facility Siting and Development


                                                               Page 12-9






                                                               Appendices


                  Policy 8.3.10 Tourism'                                           Action 8.3.10 The Town shall continue
                                                                                   to work in partnership with the local
                                                                                   Chamber of Commerce to promote
                                                                                   quality tourism at Carolina Beach.

                  Policy 8.3.11 Public Beach and Waterfront Access                 Action 8.3.11 (1) The Town shall
                                                                                   continue to seek State and Federal
                                                                                   funding to provide for enhanced beach
                                                                                   and sound-side water accessways to
                                                                                   the general public.

                                                                                   Action 8.3.11 (2) The Town shall
                                                                                   review its development regulations to
                                                                                   discourage development forms which
                                                                                   would act to wall off views and access
                                                                                   to the water.


                  Policy 8.3.12 Parks and Recreation

                  Policy 8.3.13 Boardwalk Area                                     Action 8.3.13 The Town shall
                                                                                   encourage and assist boardwalk area
                                                                                   property owners and merchants in the
                                                                                   cost effective and attractive
                                                                                   redevelopment of the traditional
                                                                                   boardwalk area of Carolina Beach.


                  Policy 8.3.14 Marina/Boat Basin                                  Action 8.3.14 The Town shall explore
                                                                                   the feasibility of establishing a Town
                                                                                   Council appointed marina authority
                                                                                   over the operation and management
                                                                                   of the marina/boat basin.

                  Policy 8.3.15 State Port Facilities

                  Policy 8.3.16 A Highway Improvements                             Action 8.3.16 A The Town shall
                                                                                   continue to work with the NCDOT on
                                                                                   a program to encourage the passage of
                                                                                   through traffic around Carolina
                                                                                   Beach and the enhanced movement of
                                                                                   non-motorized traffic within
                                                                                   Carolina Beach.


                  Policy 8.3.16 B Street System Planning                           Action 8.3.16 B The Town shall
                                                                                   revisit the street system plan
                                                                                   prepared in 1995, with the objective
                                                                                   of seeking to implement those
                                                                                   portions upon which consensus can be
                                                                                   developed.

                  Policy 8.3.16 C Bikeways                                         Action 8.3.16 C The Town shall
                                                                                   continue to work with the NCDOT on
                                                                                   a program to achieve the
                                                                                   development of a system of bikeways;
                                                                                   at Carolina Beach.



                                                                Page 12-10






                                                               Appendices


                  Policy 8.3.16 D Parking                                         Action 8.3.16 D The Town shall
                                                                                  undertake a study to evaluate the
                                                                                  desirability of establishing a
                                                                                  "parking schedule" which matches
                                                                                  parking demand by time of year, day
                                                                                  of week and time of day.

                  Policy 9.1.16 E Dow Road Intersection                           Action 8.3.16 E The Town shall
                                                                                  continue to work with the NCDOT on
                                                                                  expediting improvements to traffic
                                                                                  flow at the Dow Road intersection.


                  Policy 8.3.17 A Scenic Vistas and Views                         Action 8.3.17 A The Town shall
                                                                                  review its development regulations to
                                                                                  discourage development forms which
                                                                                  would act to wall off views of the
                                                                                  water.


                  Policy 8.3.17 B Neighborhood Character and Preservation         Action 8.3.17 B The Town will
                                                                                  undertake a program of neighborhood
                                                                                  planning to encourage the preservation
                                                                                  of neighborhoods of unique character.

                  Policy 8.3.17 C Historic Preservation                           Action 8.3.17 C The Town shall
                                                                                  continue to support the efforts of the
                                                                                  Federal Point Historic Preservation
                                                                                  Society in its efforts to preserve
                                                                                  historic structures and sites south of
                                                                                  Snow's Cut.


                  CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES


                  Policy 8A.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Continuing
                  Public Participation

                  Policy 8.4.1 Land Use Plan Update Process

                  Policy 8.4.2 On-going Public Participation

                  Policy 8.4.3 Neighborhood Planning                              Action 8.4.3 The Town will undertake
                                                                                  a program of neighborhood planning to
                                                                                  encourage the preservation of
                                                                                  neighborhoods of unique character.

                  STORM HAZARD MITIGATIONIPOST-DISASTER
                  RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION POLICIES AND PLANS

                  Policy 8.5.0 Basic Policy Statement Regarding Storm Hazard      Action 8.5.0 The Town shall continue
                  Mitigation/Post-Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Policies      to evaluate lessons learned from
                  and Plans                                                       hurricanes Bertha and Fran, as well
                                                                                  as other storms, to determine
                                                                                  refinements in emergency management
                                                                                  plans and procedures.



                                                                Page 12-11






                                                                  Appendices


                   Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies

                   Policy 8.5.1 A Storm Effect Mitigation                             Action 8.5.1 A Recognizing the
                                                                                      critical role of the National Flood
                                                                                      insurance Program in protecting
                                                                                      private property and lives at
                                                                                      Carolina Beach, the Town shall
                                                                                      continue to strictly enforce ordinance
                                                                                      provisions which bring structures into
                                                                                      compliance with the Town's flood
                                                                                      plain protection standards.

                    olicy 8.5.1 B. Discouragement of Hazardous Development            (See Implementation Action 8.5.1 A
                                                                                      above)

                   Policy 8.5.1 C. Public Land Acquisition

                   Policy 8.5.1 D. Evacuation                                         (See Implementation Action 8.5.0
                                                                                      above)

                   Post Disaster Reconstruction Policies


                   Policy 8.5.2 A. Emergency Management Plan                          (See Implementation Action 8.5.0
                                                                                      above)

                   Policy 8.5.2 B. Local Reconstruction Policies                      (See Implementation Action 8.5.0
                                                                                      above)

                   Policy 8.5.2 C. Recovery Task Force                                (See Implementation Action 8.5.0
                                                                                      above)

                   Policy 8.5.2 D. Staging Schedule for Reconstruction and Repair     Action 8.5.2 D. The Town shall work
                                                                                      with New Hanover County in
                                                                                      establishing a mutual assistance
                                                                                      program with several other
                                                                                      communities in North Carolina for
                                                                                      building inspection operations.

                   Policy 8.5.2 E. Public Infrastructure Repairs and Replacement      Action 8.5.2 E. The Town shall
                                                                                      continue to inventory all damage to
                                                                                      capital items after hurricanes Bertha
                                                                                      and Fran and include needed repairs
                                                                                      and replacement in a capital
                                                                                      improvement plan.












                                                                   Page 12-12
























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