Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Laurinburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in development
Bridge Creek demolition
The old Bridge Creek structure will be torn down by Lucas Construction for $93,500, covered entirely by state ARPA funds.
Disposal of vacant city-owned parcels
Multiple residents complained the city isn't maintaining lots it owns — overgrown lots with trees falling on neighbors' homes, and a refusal to sell to a willing buyer. Council acknowledged many properties come from tax foreclosures.
55-unit multifamily housing behind Johnson School
SCAP wanted a special use permit for a four-phase, 55-unit development (10 affordable, 45 market-rate) on 11.4 acres behind the old I. Ellijah Johnson School. Neighbors packed the hearing to testify about flooding, crime, traffic and property values, and the council unanimously denied the permit.
McGirt's Bridge Road multifamily special use permit
The council set a September 22 public hearing for a multifamily housing development on McGirt's Bridge Road. The city attorney warned this will be a quasi-judicial hearing where the council acts as judges, and urged proponents and opponents to be well-versed in the UDO and consider legal counsel.
127 Main Street restoration project
The city's old bank building downtown is getting a $669,979 makeover using $1.1 million in grant money. Work must finish by late November so the city can be reimbursed, and the brewing company leasing it takes ownership next year.
Circle K store site plan
The council was set to consider approving the site plan for a new Circle K store, a step toward bringing the convenience store project to construction.
Economic development grant payment
Ordinance O-2026-03 would amend the current-year budget to pay a scheduled economic development grant — a direct use of city funds to support local economic development commitments.