Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Currituck County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in water utilities
Mainland Water Plant expansion delivery method
The board authorized design-build delivery for a 750,000-gallon-per-day expansion that will bring the water plant's reverse osmosis capacity to three million gallons per day — the first step toward advertising for contractors.
Northwest Stormwater Advisory Board Inactivity
Resident Joe Hobbs asked why the Northwest watershed advisory board hasn't met in years; the manager agreed to look at reconstituting it after the budget is adopted.
Moyock wastewater treatment plant expansion
The county committed up to $8.5 million to start building new drainage basins at the Moyock Regional plant, aiming for October 2026 completion and roughly 100,000 gallons per day of added capacity. Businesses waiting to hook up to sewer now have a date to plan around, with bigger expansions hinging on state and federal funding.
Kamstrup Water Meter Purchase
A sole-source purchase of Kamstrup water metering equipment from Fortiline Waterworks was on the agenda for county water system operations.
Generator Replacement and System Maintenance
Staff reported on ongoing upkeep of the water/sewer system, including replacing a generator and building a fence along Bonito Drive. These upgrades keep the system reliable for residents.
Fire protection water supply standards
Rural developments can no longer count on fire department tanker shuttles as their only fire protection, and water main extensions can't be oversized relative to the existing line — a fix for pressure and water-hammer problems.
Dominion Energy Rate Hike
The board formally opposed Dominion's requested rate increase, which would average $17 more per month for customers. Commissioner Breathwaite recused himself because he works for Dominion.
Ocean Sands Water and Sewer District Budget
The OSWSD board reviewed a proposed $3.78 million budget for next year, with a public hearing June 1 and adoption due by June 30.
Exemption for county-owned minor utilities
The county wants its own small water and sewer pump stations exempt from setback, parking and landscaping rules so it can build them on tight highway easements, including one across from the high school. The board recommended approval 4-0.
Off-road power reliability after outages
After two long outages, Dominion Energy laid out upgrades — new conductors, poles and circuit reconfigurations — for the off-road electric system.
Corolla electrical reliability
After two outages lasting more than 24 hours, Dominion Energy plans a ~$550,000 reconductoring of Teal Road, 27 new poles, and a $2 million circuit reconfiguration adding a new circuit and backup ties by 2027.