Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pender County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in environment
Cemetery Identification and Protection
A neighbor of the damaged historic cemetery asked the county to document family cemeteries in GIS and create safeguards so development never disturbs graves again. The county found gravestones were disturbed during development but damaged years earlier; a preservation discussion item is coming next meeting.
Feral cat management and trap-neuter-release
The county's animal ordinance is outdated, the shelter took in over 1,300 cats this year, and a resident has pushed for TNR-friendly rules. Staff will bring back an ordinance analysis and a model community cat program in October.
Solid Waste Collection Allowed in Environmental Conservation District
A zoning text amendment would let public solid waste collection facilities operate in the Environmental Conservation district — deciding where waste-related uses can and can't go in Pender County.
Potential Tree Ordinance Changes
Commissioners want to curb clear-cutting that leaves land bare for years, expand tree mitigation to residential developments, and hold developers responsible for replacement trees that die. Changes will go through the Planning Board before any vote.
Solid waste: Montague Station and Transfer Station up-fit
Haulers are waiting hours for empty trailers at the transfer station; Commissioner Tate asked staff to revisit the hauling contract, which was recently rebid with only one response.
Burn bans for land clearing
A board member wants Pender County to join Brunswick County's push for restrictions on smoldering burn piles from land clearing, citing three burning lots seen along Highway 210. Staff will raise it with the county manager.
Abbey Nature Preserve Tree Policy
A $31,869 variance amendment drew concern that the county is too lax on tree removal — commissioners asked staff to review the UDO and consider a tree policy.