Village Council Meeting Recap

FEBRUARY 5, 2025 REGULAR VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING

1. CALL TO ORDER/APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The agenda was approved unanimously.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no written or in-person comments for the Council.

3. CONSENT AGENDA

The Consent Agenda passed unanimously.  It included item 3.1 to 3.3 below:

3.1 Approval of Minutes – January 17, 2025, Regular Session & January 17, 2025, Closed Session

3.2 Approval of Resolution of Support for Updating the 2016 Beach and Inlet Management Plan (BIMP)  (View Document)

3.3 Approval of Engagement Agreement with Ward and Smith, P.A. (View Document)

4. OLD BUSINESS

4.1 Transportation Litigation Update (View Document 1, View Document 2)

Given the short time between now and the last meeting, there are no changes with the updates as presented from last month.  The Sub 24 (parking rate increase) matter will be added.

5. NEW BUSINESS

5.1 Cape Fear Station, Six on the Beach, Lot #4101, Parcel #26500062 Subdivision (View Document)

Village Counsel Will Quick introduced this item and explained that this is an administrative process that the Village Council takes action on as far as approval or denial based on whether the standards have been met. 

He explained that the area that is being looked at in this case is unique in that it is within a Planned Unit Development (PUD). It was not zoned but designated commercial development.  The designation is different from the zoning that might apply within the PUD process.  A designation can be downgraded to a less dense designation with Village Manager approval only.  This same subdivision came before the Council in 2022. At that time, the designation had been downgraded to residential by the Village Manager.  Since there is a time limit of two years for the subdivision, it is now back before the Council with minor changes. 

Mr. Quick indicated that there have been questions about the zoning versus the designation.  He explained that in order for the area to go back to a commercial designation it would have to go back to the Council.   This area must meet residential building guidelines.

The Village Council approved the subdivision unanimously.

Mayor Quinn indicated, and Mr. Biggs, who represents the current property owner agreed, that a deed restriction will be placed on the property so that it will remain residential use.

5.2 First Reading: Ordinance to Regulate the Lighting of Beach Bonfires (View Document)

Mr. Quick introduced a draft ordinance that updates the Village’s existing ordinance to allow flexibility when they can start in the fall.  There were other small changes in the permit application process and timing.  There was discussion about commercial entities versus individuals in the ordinance.   There was discussion about changing it from commercial to “large event.”   This item is expected to be on the Council’s March 21 agenda.

6. DEPARTMENT HEAD MONTHLY REPORTS

No department head reports were submitted due to the short time between the January meeting and this meeting.

6.1 Development Services 

6.2 Public Safety

6.3 Public Services

6.4 Assistant Village Manager 

7. MANAGER’S REPORT

Mr. Kim indicated that an update on the Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project was provided during the Shoreline Protection item yesterday.  He said that staff have a meeting later that day with NOAA to discuss the $4.5 million earmark.  He reported that Verizon is making improvements to the equipment on the cell tower. Staff should receive confirmation when the work is completed.

8. CLOSED SESSION PURSUANT TO N.C.G.S. 143-318.11 (A)(1)(3)(5)

No action was taken when the Council returned to open session.

9. ADJOURNMENT

THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING IS MARCH 21, 2025.

A full account of these meetings can be found in the minutes which are posted HERE. Typically, minutes are posted with the agenda of next month’s meeting (e.g. If you want to read the November meeting minutes, they can be found under the December regular meeting agenda). 

JANUARY 17, 2025 REGULAR VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING

1. CALL TO ORDER/APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The agenda was approved unanimously (3-0, Councilor Hill was not present for this meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Gardner participated remotely).

2. PUBLIC COMMENT

Dr. Chris Shank from the BHI Conservancy thanked the Mayor and Council for their assistance in transferring right-of-way to the Conservancy.  It is now finalized, and the Conservancy is working on ideas to improve the campus. 

Dr. Beth Darrow from the BHI Conservancy announced that the latest deer population study revealed that the deer population on the island is above target size and is the highest since 2006.  The target population size has been 200 for several years and the fall census put the island at 221 this year.  The Conservancy will be providing the Village with the report and is presenting options for discussion at the Village Council’s annual retreat (February 3 & 4, 2025).

3. CONSENT AGENDA

The Consent Agenda passed unanimously (3-0).  It included items 3.1 & 3.2 below:

3.1 Approval of Minutes – December 13, 2024, Regular Session & December 13, 2024, Closed Session

3.2 Approval of Proclamation Recognizing February 2025 as Black History Month in the Village of Bald Head Island (View Document)

4. OLD BUSINESS

4.1 Transportation Litigation Update (View Document 1, View Document 2)

Village Counsel, Charles Baldwin, provided an update. He reported that the Village filed its brief in the ROFR case the day prior. The A-100 matters are on hold.  The Village has filed a petition on the Sub 22 case for discretionary review with the NC Supreme Court and they will either accept it or deny it and that should happen within a period of months.

Village Manager, Chris McCall presented the expenditure report. Out of the $1.3 million budget, $923,000 remains unspent.

5. NEW BUSINESS

5.1 Village Land Trust Discussion

Mayor Quinn announced that that he has had discussions with board members from the Smith Island Land Trust (SILT) and a representative from the Land Trust of North Carolina to show the Village’s interest in identifying properties that should be conserved and in so doing would take them off the market.  This would help control the development on the island, address complaints about growth, and support the Village’s goal of being in harmony with nature.  The Village would like to support the land trusts and investigate the Village’s role in doing that.

Chris Shank, BHI Conservancy Executive Director, explained his role with SILT and the work performed to protect the properties and ramp up preservation.  He mentioned the work that has already been done to create a priority preservation model and the work a graduate student reported on at last year’s sustainability symposium (video HERE) which looked at the future of the maritime forest under different development scenarios.

There was discussion about potential funding available for municipalities and that the Village should take advantage of any opportunities that are available.

5.2 Award Contract for Wastewater Collection System Duplex Lift Stations Phase III (View Document)

There was discussion on the various phases of the project (more information HERE).
The Village Council unanimously voted to award the contract to Utilitech.

5.3 Capital Project Ordinance – Wastewater Collection System Duplex Lift Stations Phase III (View Document)

The Village Council unanimously voted to adopt this Capital Project Ordinance which accounts for the funding of Phase III of the lift station project.

5.4 General Fund Budget Ordinance Amendment (View Document)

The Village Council unanimously voted to adopt this General Fund Budget Ordinance. This accounts for revenues from insurance reimbursement and FEMA revenues of $178,000 with expenditures to:

  • Public Safety: Capital Outlay >5k ($50k) – New Vehicle
  • Public Works: Capital Outlay >5k ($38k) – New Vehicle
  • Public Works: Storm Prep/Assessment/Cleanup ($65k) – PTC #8 Response
  • Public Works: Village Parks ($25k) – Village Common Park Project
  • Debt Service: PS Vehicles/Apparatus Loan Principle/Interest ($449k)
  • Public Works: Capital Outlay >5k ($56k) – Timber Bridge Board Replacement
  • Contingency ($505k) – Decrease to fund PS apparatus bridge loan through the end of year.

There was discussion regarding the Village Common Park project which is a landscape improvement project that has the potential to serve as a baseline for long-term maintenance of this park.  The Village Council accepted an anonymous donation of $25,000 for this project in December.  

5.5 Capital Project Ordinance Amendment – Beach Project (View Document)

The Village Council unanimously voted to adopt this Capital Project Ordinance (CPO) Amendment for the Beach Project.

This amendment includes bond proceeds from the 2024 and 2018 bond approvals.  When the Village created the CPO initially, we were funding transfers to cover engineering costs until the bond passed and was approved by the LGC.  This amendment accounts for construction costs but also lets us transfer funds back to the BRATT Fund to reimburse ourselves for prior expenses mentioned with previous transfers.

5.6 December 2024 Financials (View Document)

The Finance Director presented the monthly financial report.

5.7 Commercial Use Trailers/Code of Ordinances Review for ICE Annual Permitting Chapter 28 Transition Table Discussion (View Document)

Village staff (Assistant Village Manager, Jae Kim, and Public Safety Chief, Josh Gibson) reported on the expiration of the ICE vehicle transition plan in Chapter 28 of the Village Ordinance (in July 2025) and issues that the Village is experiencing with the use of oversize trailers on the island, how they are currently being permitted under daily ICE permits and are impacting road safety by moving around the island.  

Village Council discussed bringing contractors and other stakeholders into the discussion as a change in policy could have significant impacts. A suggestion was also made to extend the ICE vehicle transition plan an additional year to give the Village time to do research.

6. DEPARTMENT HEAD MONTHLY REPORTS

6.1 Development Services (View Document 1, Document 2)
6.2 Public Safety (View Document 1, Document 2, Document 3)
6.3 Public Services (View Document, Document 2, Document 3)
6.4 Assistant Village Manager (View Document 1, Document 2, Document 3)

Public Safety Updates

Monthly Reports – Chief Gibson shared some examples of logs (HERE) that will help staff keep an accurate account of the calls the Public Safety and Fire/EMS divisions are responding to and will lead to a “bigger picture” report for the Council to review.

Apparatus Update – The ladder truck and engine are on schedule and Chief Gibson reported that he was headed to Florida this week to do the final inspections.  Once they wrap up everything there, the apparatus will be delivered to Rocky Mount which will mount the equipment on the inside of the cabins, after that, they will be delivered to Southport. 

Southport has agreed to hold the trucks in their bays on the mainland so that staff can train to drive them on wider roads, at first. This will also provide an opportunity for mutual aid training and a multi-agency training event will take place so that our mutual aid agencies have familiarity with the trucks. Then they will come home to BHI!  (See our latest update in the January Village’s Voice HERE)

Public Services Updates

Wastewater Flows – Mr. McCann shared the wastewater flows for 2024.  The Village hit the 80% threshold in July and August but did not reach it in June, this year.  He indicated he would be sharing more data which will look at the last four years and show the trends. The graph on page 4 HERE.

Smoke Testing – Mr. McCann reported that the Village has contracted to have smoke testing done in two areas of the island to determine points of entry for inflow and infiltration (groundwater and storm/surface water that enters pipes and goes to the wastewater treatment plant unnecessarily increasing flows).  More info in the January Village’s Voice (HERE).

Meter Read Program – Village Utilities has looked at the additional cost of integrating cellular and cellular units where the antennae will not pick up.  They’ve regrouped and will be doing a new propagation study for both antennae and cell coverage.  More info HERE.

Inserta Valve Installation– Mr. McCann reported that the Village completed the installation of two inserta valves (photos HERE), one on Edward Teach Extension and the other on Federal Road.  This will help the Village move toward zoning the water distribution on the island so that when there is a leak, Village Utilities does not have to shut down the entire system for the whole island.  The first zone established includes the Department of Public Safety, Public Works, Village Utilities, the two dorm buildings, the Maritime Market, and the two buildings in that area, as well as the Jailhouse Restaurant, and the professional buildings next door.

High-Speed Pumps – Mr. McCann announced that the high-speed pumps for water distribution are now fully automated.  There are three now ready to work in case of water flow needs and he will be requesting funds in the next budget to purchase a 4th pump for redundancy.

Marina Park Irrigation – There is now a separate irrigation zone for the Pollinator Garden at Marina Park.  This will help keep irrigation going during events at the park.

Snorkel Installs – The equipment to install snorkels on grinder pumps has been ordered and most of it has arrived.  Village Utilities will be working north to south starting in the Cape Fear Trail area.  Some of this work will be done in-house this spring and Village Utilities will be looking at hiring a contractor to do the work.  They will be reaching out to the homeowners in advance to let them know they will be doing the work so they are aware of what is going on and staff can answer any questions.  Each install is expected to take a couple of hours and will not disrupt service.

Assistant Village Manager Updates

Assistant Village Manager Jae Kim gave the following updates:

Grant Projects– Withers Ravenel (WR) staff are planning to attend the Council Retreat for project updates (AIA & LASII) in February and are meeting with Village staff on a monthly basis to go over these projects.

AIA – WR is coordinating with Village IT to begin the GIS data view setup.  They are also assisting the Village with the smoke test, water looping, district-metered areas, and valve replacement.  A scope of work amendment will be submitted to DEQ, this will not change the cost of the project.

LASII (Stormwater) – The project kickoff meeting was held on 12/19.

CRB (Commercial Review Board) – Mr. Kim reported that the 1/7 meeting was for a minor renovation request from Jailhouse Provisions (addition), which was approved.

CSDR Project Update – Mr. Kim presented some photos and video of the Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project (HERE) which showed the groin field tubes being installed.  As far as dredging and placing the beach fill, he reported that they are stalled right now due to an equipment repair.  There are no schedule concerns due to the dredge being down for several days for the repair.

7. MANAGER’S REPORT

CSDR Project Update – Mr. McCall provided additional information on the project.  He reported that Marinex has dredged and placed approximately 390,000 cubic yards of material in the west end fill template extending from Beach Access #11 to Beach Access #15 in the vicinity of Black Skimmer Trail.

He added that the Shoal’s Club area is looking pretty healthy and that the condition of the spit and its orientation is somewhat favorable to what the Village is trying to accomplish, plugging in the bifurcation of the shoal.

Groin Tube Replacement Update – Mr. McCall reported to date, work to expose and remove groin tubes with the first five (5) tubes starting from west to east is underway.  At least two (2) tubes have been completely replaced and are waiting to be surveyed before backfilling and covering.

NOAA $4.5M Federal Grant Status Update – The grant application is still under review by NOAA grant administrators.

USACE MOA Update – Staff has reached out to set up the meeting with Brennan Dooley of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) on Tuesday, January 21st to discuss the Memorandum of Agreement for the Corps to do additional work when they do the Wilmington Harbor Maintenance project.

2025 Annual Council Retreat Agenda – Staff continues to work up the draft agenda items for the upcoming annual Council Retreat set for Monday, February 3rd starting at 9:00 a.m.  Mr. McCall has confirmed meeting attendees for Shoreline Management, Conservancy, Federal & State advocacy teams, WWTP expansion project team (sewer) and hydrogeologist (water & stormwater), and AIA project team.

VBHI-BHA Dog Park Agreement Update – Staff is reviewing with legal counsel a draft agreement with the Bald Head Association (BHA) for the Dog Park that is located on BHA property.  As part of the review, we consulted with the NCLM on our liability coverage. 

While we are already covered by insurance for the property, we are confirming if there will be any increase to the premium for coverage that is included in the agreement ($2M).  As part of the League’s review they offered recommendations on ways to mitigate liability with the inclusion of a Dog Park Ordinance, posting of park rules including clear disclaimers and “use at your own risk” signage, routine inspections, prompt repairs, age restrictions for entry and areas dedicated for children and dogs to interact safely, and regularly sanitizing of common areas and equipment and provisions of waste stations with frequent trash collection to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.

The Village Ordinance does not include anything specific to a Municipal Dog Park, only things related to unrestrained dogs, dangerous dogs, and processes in place with Brunswick County Animal Control if it is determined that an animal is considered dangerous.

Verizon Cell Service Update – Verizon contractors will be mobilizing to the island next the week of 1/19 to get started with making improvements to the equipment on the tower.  They have scheduled to get the work done that week.  **This was likely delayed due to the winter storm.

1/10 Planning Board Meeting – Mr. McCall reported that the 1/10 Planning Board meeting included two items. One was a special use permit that was tabled for additional discussion at a future Planning Board date. The other was a preliminary subdivision from the developer for approval, and the Planning Board recommended approval.  This requires the Council to approve that, and that will be on the agenda at next month’s meeting in February. The Village Counsel was asked to provide additional options since there are still several questions about the zoning of this property.

8. CLOSED SESSION PURSUANT TO N.C.G.S. 143-318.11 (A)(1)(3)(5)

No action was taken when the Council returned to open session.

9. ADJOURNMENT

THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING IS FEBRUARY 4, 2025, FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF THE COUNCIL RETREAT ON FEBRUARY 3-4, 2025

A full account of these meetings can be found in the minutes which are posted HERE. Typically, minutes are posted with the agenda of next month’s meeting (e.g. If you want to read the November meeting minutes, they can be found under the December regular meeting agenda). 

DECEMBER 13, 2024 REGULAR VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING

1. CALL TO ORDER/APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The agenda was approved unanimously.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no written or in-person comments for the Council.

3. CONSENT AGENDA

The Consent Agenda passed unanimously.  It included item 3.1 below:

3.1 Approval of Minutes – November 15, 2024, Regular Session & November 15, 2024, Closed Session

4. PUBLIC HEARING

4.1 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan (View document)

The Village Manager introduced this item. The Village Council opened the public hearing. Having received no comments from the public, the Council closed the public hearing. The plan was adopted unanimously as presented.

5. OLD BUSINESS

5.1 Transportation Litigation Update (View Document 1, View Document 2)

The Village is evaluating the impact of the recent Court of Appeals opinion and the next steps on the Sub 22 case, which is the transfer of assets.  The Sub 21 (NCUC regulation of parking and barge services) and Sub 23 (ferry schedule) cases have been concluded.  The ROFR case is still pending before the Court of Appeals.  Charles Baldwin, Village Attorney, said that the brief in the ROFR case is due on December 28 (which extends to December 30 since the 28 falls on a Saturday). A panel of three judges will be appointed and they will schedule a hearing, which will likely take place in the first quarter of 2025.   The opinion could be issued anywhere from 6 to 12 months after the hearing.

6. NEW BUSINESS

6.1 Award Engineering Contract to McKim & Creed for Design of Wastewater Treatment Plant Phase II, Amendment I (View document)

The Village Council unanimously voted to approve the contract and gave the Village Manager authority to execute the contract.

6.2 Resolution Accepting Monetary Donation for Clean Up of Common Park (View document)

The donated funds will be restricted to the costs associated with cleaning up the park.  The result is to determine a baseline for long-term maintenance of the park and the establishment of standards.  Village personnel will be removing the vegetative debris and using the Timber Creek mulch site for this project.

The Village Council unanimously adopted the resolution.

6.3 Resolution Adopting Petty Cash Fund Policy (View Document 1, Document 2)

The Finance Director introduced this item and explained that the Village had this policy in place, but it is now reduced to writing.  The Village Council unanimously adopted the resolution.

6.4 November 2024 Financials (View document)

The Finance Director presented the monthly financial report.

6.5 Resolution Adopting the 2025 Village Council Regular Meeting Schedule (View document)

The Village Council unanimously adopted the resolution.  The Councilors will be checking their calendars and reporting to the Village Clerk if there are any conflicts.  This may result in changes to the schedule if a quorum cannot be met.  Any changes will be duly noticed.

6.6 Contracting Landscaping Services Discussion

There was discussion about designating some areas of the Village’s maintained properties for contractors to maintain under a contract.  This would be instead of hiring additional employees in the Public Services Department.  The Village Manager said that we would like the Village Council to provide guidance and formalize the baseline for these areas for long-term maintenance.

7. DEPARTMENT HEAD MONTHLY REPORTS

7.1 Development Services (View Document 1, Document 2)

7.2 Public Safety (View Document 1, Document 2)

7.3 Public Services (View Document)

7.4 Assistant Village Manager (View Document 1, Document 2)

Public Safety Updates

Camera System Update – Chief Gibson reported that staff received quotes from two vendors for 14 cameras at 11 locations. The quotes included a $55,000 installation with a $45,000 per year accrual and a $270,000 installation with a $400 monthly recurring charge.  He said that if officers see something on camera, that enforcement will still require an officer to follow up.  Cost-benefit-wise, staff recommended that it would be more beneficial to focus on increasing staffing for the peak period to ensure an officer is on patrol in strategic areas. Gibson said patrols were effective when they implemented them later in the season this past summer. The plan is to use people already on staff to perform the extra duties for the peak period that it will be necessary.

Apparatus Update – Chief Gibson reported that delivery of the ladder and engine is delayed.  Staff is expected to travel to Florida to do the final inspection of both on January 20 and the trucks will be completed two weeks after the visit.  The ladder truck will still need to go to Fire Connections to mount the equipment.   He reported that Southport has agreed to hold the trucks in their bays on the mainland so that staff can train to drive them on wider roads, at first. This will also provide an opportunity for mutual aid training and a multi-agency training event will take place so that our mutual aid agencies have familiarity with the trucks.  This will also help the Village’s ISO rating.   The second ambulance is scheduled to be picked up by staff on December 20.

Public Services Updates

Public Services Director, JP McCann gave the following updates:

Timber Bridge – Mr. McCann indicated that Public Services will be requesting additional funds to purchase another 200 replacement boards for the Timber Bridge.  The goal is to replace all the boards so that the wear decking can be installed which will prolong the life of the boards.  The budget amendment is expected to be on the January agenda.  McCann said that Public Services is repurposing the old boards where possible.

Speed Bumps – Since two of the three speedbumps near N Bald Head Wynd and Muscadine Wynd were removed, the feedback (or lack of) seems to indicate that the one is working, it is slowing folks down.  Mr. McCann said that the reflectors have been installed on the remaining speed bump and that it is visible for both golf carts and ICE vehicles.

WWTP Usage – Mr. McCann was asked about the wastewater treatment plant usage trends. He reported that the Village’s peaks have come down.  The highest usages were in August 2021 and July 2023 and have since backed off.  He will be discussing the numbers in detail during the annual retreat (February 3 & 4, 2025).

Assistant Village Manager Updates

Assistant Village Manager Jae Kim gave an update on the IPC’s holiday hours, updates on the AIA (Asset Inventory Assessment) and LASSI (stormwater) grants, reported that the Commercial Review Board (CRB) did not meet in December for lack of applications.

7. MANAGER’S REPORT

PTC #8 Post-Storm After-Action Review Summary – Mr. McCall gave a presentation on PTC #8 he touched on the following info:

  • Storm predictions including expected and total rainfall on BHI
  • Post-storm impacts on BHI and throughout Brunswick County
  • Comparative flood areas review with 2019 LiDAR Data
  • Floodwater Management on BHI
  • Post-storm after-action reviews for Public Services, Public Safety/Incident Command Support Response, Development Services/Stormwater Management, Communications & Education Outreach, BHI Club Floodwater Management Support Response
  • Future Policy Considerations 

A video of the presentation can be viewed HERE.

2025 CSDR Project – Mr. McCall reported that sand placement for the Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project had started.   More information on the project and regular updates will be posted HERE.

Memorandum of Agreement – Mr. McCall announced that the Village will be meeting with the Army Corps of Engineers to discuss a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that if executed, would allow the Village to contribute funds to expand the scope of work during the Corp’s Wilmington Harbor Channel Maintenance projects.

Annual Retreat – Mr. McCall said he and Mayor Quinn have been working on a draft agenda for the annual retreat (February 3 & 4, 2025) and requested Council to submit any ideas they have for topics. 

Contractor Ferry Reservations – Staff is preparing for a change in how the Village pays for its employee’s ferry tickets in anticipation of a new reservation system for the contractor ferry.  Currently, the Village is paying for tickets after I-cards are scanned in, the Village anticipates having to pre-pay with the new system.

Summer Youth Activities – Mr. McCall reported that he has met with individuals who are hoping to establish summer activities for youth (13-18 age range) this year.

Service Awards/Employee of the Year – The Village presented the Employee of the Year award and service awards at its recent holiday party.  Here are the recipients:

Employee of the Year: Anthony Sinatra (Public Services – Utilities)

5 Years of Service:  Corey Craven (Public Services), David Morales (Public Services), Stephen Pevarnik (IPC/PO), and Carin Faulkner (Administration-PIO)

10 Years of Service:  Jerry Waits (Public Services), Dustin Shaw (Public Safety), Travis Dellinger (Public Safety), Sebastian Alamond (Administration – IT), and Mishanda Mohundro (Administration – Finance)

20 Years of Service:  Stephen Boyett (Development Services) and Chris McCall (Administration)

25 Years of Service: David Cox (Administration – IT)

Verizon Update – The Village has been notified that the antennae have been shipped for the relocation of Verizon’s equipment to a higher location on the cell tower.

8. CLOSED SESSION PURSUANT TO N.C.G.S. 143-318.11 (A)(1)(3)(5)

No action was taken when the Council returned to open session.

9. ADJOURNMENT

THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING IS JANUARY 17, 2025.

A full account of these meetings can be found in the minutes which are posted HERE. Typically, minutes are posted with the agenda of next month’s meeting (e.g. If you want to read the August meeting minutes, they can be found under the September regular meeting agenda). 

NOVEMBER 15, 2024 REGULAR VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING

1. CALL TO ORDER/APPROVAL OF AGENDA

The agenda was approved unanimously.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no written or in-person comments for the Council.

3. CONSENT AGENDA

The Consent Agenda passed unanimously.  It included items 3.1 and 3.2 below:

3.1 Approval of Minutes – October 11, 2024 Regular Session & October 11, 2024, Closed Session

3.2 Approval of Ambulance Franchise Agreement with Brunswick County (View document)

4. OLD BUSINESS

4.1 2025 Coastal Storm Damage Reduction (CSDR) Beach Nourishment Project Fill Design Recommendations & General Update (View project webpage)

The Village’s coastal engineers gave an update on the upcoming 2025 CSDR project. There was also discussion on long term planning for the groin tube field as far as determining how the tubes will be maintained into the future.  They will present more information on this at the Village Council’s annual retreat (February 3 & 4, 2025).

4.2 Resolution Authorizing Issuance of General Obligation Beach Improvement Bonds, Series 2024  (View Document)

The resolution was adopted unanimously (3-0) as presented.

4.3 Transportation Litigation Update  (View Document 1, Document 2)

Mayor Pro Tem Gardner gave an update on the pending litigation. He reported that the Court of Appeals released its opinion on the Sub 21 case (Utilities Commission regulation of parking and barge services).  The Appeals Court ruled that the barge operation should not be regulated, and the Village disagrees. The Village’s option at this point is to appeal to the State Supreme Court. There are factors that the Village is considering that would impact the outcome before a decision is made on whether to appeal.  He reported that the Sub 23 (proposed ferry services schedule amendment) was approved, that most folks should be up to speed on that (see the Village’s announcement HERE). The new schedule is effective December 1, and the reservation system is updated with the new schedule.

5. NEW BUSINESS

5.1 First Reading – An Ordinance of the Village of Bald Head Island, North Carolina to Regulate Handicap Parking (No draft document presented).

Will Quick, Village Counsel, advised that the Village does not need to adopt its own ordinance and that it can enforce the state law which comes with a $250 state citation.  The Village Council accepted this recommendation.  Staff will be working on a procedure for island businesses to request a handicap parking sign from the Village to ensure all the signage looks the same.

Note: As far as the placards, Public Safety advises those who have placards to make a copy of the one they use for their vehicle on the mainland and to affix (tape) the copy to the inside of the windshield (not blocking view of the driver).

5.2 Resolution Authorizing Installment Loan Financing for Public Safety Vehicles (View Document 1 Document 2)

The resolution was adopted unanimously (3-0) as presented.

5.3 October 2024 Financials (View Document)

Zachary Hewett, Finance Officer presented the monthly financials.  He reported that the Village has submitted its PDA (public disaster assistance) request through FEMA.  The Village has requested approximately $1 million for damage from PTC #8 (damage to Village vehicles and facilities).

6. DEPARTMENT HEAD MONTHLY REPORTS

6.1 Development Services (View Document 1, Document 2)

6.2 Public Safety (View Document 1, Document 2)

6.3 Public Services (View Document)

6.4 Assistant Village Manager (View Document 1, Document 2)

Public Safety Updates

Camera System Update – Chief Gibson reported that staff visited three local police departments that are using camera systems.  The Village is receiving options from a combination of vendors. Line of sight is going to be a main issue for installing cameras on BHI. Staff will be presenting the options at the December meeting.

Apparatus Update – Chief Gibson presented some photos from the manufacturer who is working on the Village’s ladder truck and engine.  He pointed out the modifications that were made to the design to make the size more compact to make a smaller turning radius. The Village is still expecting delivery of these apparatus and ambulance #1 by the end of the year.  View the photos HERE.

Public Services Updates

Public Services Director, JP McCann gave the following updates:

Speed Bumps – In response to feedback received from the public, especially tram riders, the Village will be removing two of the three speed bumps that were installed near the intersection of N Bald Head Wynd and Muscadine Wynd.  After consulting with Public Safety, the one closest to the turn will stay in place.  Staff is going to re-evaluate the process by which the decision to install these calming devices are made in the future.

Lift Station Maintenance – Bids for the next phase of the lift station maintenance project will be going out the week of 11/18. More information on that project HERE.

Stormwater Planning Grant – Public Services staff completed an inventory, with photos, of the Village’s stormwater equipment as part of the Village’s stormwater planning grant. Staff will continue to work with WithersRavenel who is helping develop the plan as part of the NC Department of Environmental Quality $350,000 local assistance for stormwater infrastructure and investments (LASII) grant.

Timber Bridge – Public Works temporarily installed a running surface on the  Timber Bridge to give Council and CAMA (permitting agency) an idea of how the material looks. The surface should help prolong the lifespan of the boards. Mr. McCann indicated that he would like to install 200 more new boards this year and the remaining 400 boards next fiscal year and then install the running surface along the entire length of the bridge. See photos of the running surface below.

Grinder Pumps – Village Utilities staff have evaluated the grinder pumps that were impacted by PTC #8 and are looking at options to modify the equipment to lessen the impacts of stormwater flooding. In speaking with industry representatives, none of the options available will completely eliminate inflow and infiltration (I&I) from getting into the system.  At best the modifications will offer more operational control and result in getting the grinder pumps turned on more quickly once they have been submerged. The equipment will still need to be individually checked before being put back into service. Rough estimates indicate a cost of $250,000 for the equipment only (not including installation).

Radio Read Project – The Village is looking into implementing a radio read system that will provide real-time data on water usage for the island. Staff has evaluated the options and is looking at doing a hybrid system where they can use signals off antennae located at Village Utilities and Common Park and then some cellular service for areas that will not get a signal (which comes with an extra cost).  A third antenna location was considered off the golf course (not visually appealing) and at Harbor Village main (near the contractor lot at the marina). Staff will be getting the numbers and options together for further consideration.

Grant Funding Options – Village staff met with folks from the Ferguson Group (legislative affairs consultants) to discuss Federal funding options for the wastewater treatment plant expansion. In preparation of these efforts, Mr. McCann reported that they have separated the water and sewer budgets and are wrapping up the AIA grant project which will create a CIP (capital improvement plan) for long term expenses for water and sewer. These items will help increase the “points” that the Village receives when its grant applications are evaluated.

Assistant Village Manager Updates

Assistant Village Manager Jae Kim gave an update on the IPC’s holiday hours (more info below), an update on the AIA grant. He reported that a request for proposals for smoke testing will be going out soon. He emphasized that information from PTC #8 will be used as part of the stormwater grant which will result in a comprehensive stormwater management plan and this project will take approximately 24 months and will hopefully launch in the next month or two.   He reported that the marina channel maintenance just wrapped up last weekend. This is another grant that the Village receives from the State (67% of the cost is paid by NC).

7. MANAGER’S REPORT

Verizon Tower – Mr. McCall reported that Verizon is expected to get started on moving its equipment to a higher location on the cell tower next month (December 2024). This work should be completed by the end of the 4th quarter.

PTC #8 FAQs – Mr. McCall reported that in follow-up to staff’s request for questions after PTC #8, that the question-and-answer document had been released that week (see announcement here).

ADA Transition Plan – Mr. McCall announced that the Village has completed an ADA Transition Plan. He reviewed the implementation plans which include communications, public buildings, spaces and rights-of-way. The draft plan is available online HERE.  The Village is requesting public input which can be submitted to the Village Clerk (village.clerk@villagebhi.org)  or at the December 13, 2024, public hearing.

Hospitality Meeting – Mr. McCall asked Ms. Faulkner (Public Information Officer) to report on the hospitality meeting.  She reported that Village staff hosted the Village’s inaugural hospitality meeting on October 23.  About 25 folks attended, representing several rental companies, inns, and a few businesses.  Staff gave an overview of the Village’s communication channels and target audiences and provided information on the Village’s upcoming Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project and where to find future updates. Then there was a discussion amongst the group on the best ways to inform renters about the island to improve their experience. This generated a few ideas for additional content that can be pushed out to the renters prior to their stay.  Due to its success, the Village will likely make this an annual meeting.

Upcoming Meetings – Mr. McCall announced that staff and several Village Council members would be attending the NCBIWA Conference on November 18 & 19.  The local manager’s meeting on the island had been rescheduled for 11/20, and a representative from Senator Budd’s office will be visiting the island that day, too.

8. CLOSED SESSION PURSUANT TO N.C.G.S. 143-318.11 (A)(1)(3)(5)

No action was taken when the Council returned to open session.

9. ADJOURNMENT

THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING IS DECEMBER 13, 2024

A full account of these meetings can be found in the minutes which are posted HERE. Typically, minutes are posted with the agenda of next month’s meeting (e.g. If you want to read the August meeting minutes, they can be found under the September regular meeting agenda).