Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pender County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
14 issues with low priority
Hearing time limits for applicants and public
Board members want a fairer balance — maybe 15 minutes for applicants — since the public gets only 2 minutes. No vote yet; staff will research other jurisdictions and possibly revise rules of procedure.
Proposed county livestock arena
The 4-H Mane Event Horse Club asked the county to consider a livestock arena on at least 50 acres, citing a 100% community survey support and no ag-event facility within 30 miles. Staff will explore partnership ideas.
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.
Project Lifesaver Fundraising
The Sheriff's Foundation is raising money for tracking bracelets ($400-500 each) for residents prone to wandering, at its June 5 Denim & Diamonds event.
Fate of the old DHHS building
Renovating the old DHHS building is likely off the table — asbestos and sewer problems make it cost-prohibitive, according to the facilities director.
Health Department strategic plan
The Health Department's 2025-2030 Strategic Plan with four goals was adopted, and the 2025 State of the County Health Report was presented.
Zoning text amendment on surfacing materials
A proposed change to Section 7.10.5 would give property owners and builders more options for driveway and site surfacing materials.
Dental clinic X-ray replacement
The health department's 17-year-old, unrepairable dental X-ray machine will be replaced for about $55,945, with the cost recouped in roughly two years from clinic revenue.
Rocky Point Rezone (REZONE 2025-93)
Nearly 10 acres in Rocky Point got rezoned from General Business back to Residential Performance, meaning no commercial development on that tract.
County Trash Fees for Private-Hauler Customers
Commissioner Tate flagged that residents who hire private trash companies still pay the county's trash fee because those haulers use county convenience sites. He asked whether the GFL contract pricing could be renegotiated.
Newspaper Advertising Spending
The county switched its legal ads to the Wilmington Star-News, and spending dropped compared to years with the Pender-Topsail Post and Voice — though the comparison isn't apples-to-apples since only legally required ads were placed. George asked for a better comparison.
Maple Hill Fire Department merger
Chairman Burton directed staff to call the Maple Hill fire chief and work toward a resolution on the department's merger.
Hampstead Kiwanis Park security cameras
The county wants to install cameras and licensing at the park but tabled the vote to find out how much the Kiwanis organization will pay toward it.