Public Meetings - Wilmington, North Carolina

The Design Adjustment Committee of the City of Wilmington met on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers at Skyline Center, 929 North Front Street, Wilmington, NC. The only item on the agenda was a request for design adjustments for a courtyard development at 2718 Worth Drive. The committee unanimously approved the requested waiver. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (August 13, 2025): The minutes from the August 13, 2025 regular meeting were presented. No corrections were suggested. Vice-Chair Vielkanowitz moved to approve, seconded by Mr. Seidel. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). Discussion Items - 2718 Worth Drive – Request for Design Adjustments for Courtyard Development (DAC-2-925): The applicant, Cindee Wolf, requested a waiver to allow off-street parking to be located between the primary street frontage and the dwelling units, which is not typically permitted under Section 18-435 of the Land Development Code. The site is approximately 1.10 acres, zoned R-5, and currently vacant. The proposal is a 12-unit residential courtyard development, with approximately 40% impervious surface requiring a stormwater management permit. The applicant argued the waiver was reasonable because the parking area is set back more than 110 feet from the street, oriented away from Worth Drive, and will be screened with landscaping. A revised site plan was submitted the morning of the meeting to address emergency access, without changing the parking location. Staff Planner Zac Smith presented the case. Committee members asked questions about parking count (8–9 spaces), street parking availability, emergency access, fire hydrant distances, and stormwater mitigation. The applicant stated that soil testing is underway and stormwater will be addressed through the Technical Review Committee (TRC) process. The committee discussed the importance of preserving an existing live oak tree as a focal point. Mr. Seidel expressed support for the request, noting that the proposed buffering and landscaping, along with the housing options provided by the development, were beneficial to the zoning district. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Waiver: Mr. Seidel made a motion to approve the request as presented. The motion was seconded by Mr. Henley. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). The committee granted the waiver for off-street parking to be located between the primary street frontage and dwelling units, contingent on further details to be reviewed during the TRC process. - Next Steps: The applicant will proceed with the TRC review, which will address detailed site plan elements such as stormwater management, fire hydrant placement, and final parking configuration.

The Wilmington Historic Preservation Commission met on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, Skyline Center, to consider six evidentiary hearings and one local landmark application. All votes were unanimous (7-0). A moment of silence was observed for the 24th anniversary of 9/11. The meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from August 14, 2025, were amended to correct the vote tally on Item 1419 Market Street from 7-0 to 6-1, with Chairman Yermal dissenting. The minutes were then approved unanimously, 7-0. Old Business 501 South 5th Avenue (Hall House) - Proposal: Removal and replacement of two chimneys, removal of a rear façade door and a side exit door, installation of new windows, and a new south elevation door. - Outcome: The commission partially approved the request. They approved the removal of the rear and side doors, installation of new windows, and the new door, but denied the chimney removal and replacement due to insufficient evidence of structural issues. Conditions included clear glass, wood siding matching existing, and window matching previous layout and dimensions. Motion carried 7-0. New Business 1403 Rankin Street – Pool Installation - Proposal: Installation of a backyard pool with a four-foot black aluminum fence. - Outcome: Approved with conditions: fence shall meet NC Code and not exceed 6' in height; archaeological finds to be reported; compliance with codes. Motion carried 7-0. 218 North 5th Avenue – Rear Sunroom, Deck, and Carport - Proposal: Construction of a sunroom on existing deck, deck modifications, and a carport with metal roof. - Outcome: Approved with conditions: no mature tree removal; metal roofing shall be flat channeled with no striations; compliance with codes. Motion carried 7-0. 411 Market Street & 15 North 5th Avenue – First Baptist Church Educational Building Reconstruction - Proposal: Reconstruction and renovation of the educational wing, including preservation of historic walls and addition of a hyphen to Sidbury House. - Outcome: Approved with conditions: clear window glazing; no mature tree removal; compliance with codes. Commission commended the application's quality. Motion carried 7-0. 605 Dock Street – Rear Porch Reconstruction - Proposal: Replacement of existing multi-level porch with a single-level porch modeled after neighboring sister house. Applicant requested material changes: wood fascia instead of fiber cement, tongue-and-groove decking. - Outcome: Approved with conditions: pressure-treated elements painted to match; no mature tree removal; flat channeled metal roof; compliance with codes. Motion carried 7-0. 314 South 4th Street – Partial Screen Porch Enclosure - Proposal: Enclosure of rear portion of screened porch to create a bathroom, with two small transom windows. - Outcome: Approved with conditions: new exterior wall clad in wood siding to match; clear window glazing; existing window retained for future use; compliance with codes. Motion carried 7-0. Other Business Wilmington Iron Works – Local Landmark Application (201 South Water Street) - Proposal: Designation of the former Wilmington Iron Works machine shop as a local landmark, noting its industrial history and adaptive reuse as the Museum of the Bizarre. - Outcome: Approved 7-0 to recommend designation to City Council. Landmark status would make the property eligible for a 50% property tax deferral and subject exterior changes to commission review. Staff Update – Keenan Fountain Restoration - Update: The fountain at Market Street and Fifth Avenue will be restored to working order with flowing water. Two benches on Fifth Avenue and the remains of two balusters on Market Street will be removed for public safety due to repeated vehicle damage. Removed elements will be stored for potential reinstallation in a more appropriate location. Paving and landscaping improvements on Fifth Avenue are scheduled to begin soon. No commission action was taken. Key Outcomes - All seven votes (6 evidentiary hearings + 1 landmark application) passed unanimously, 7-0. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 9, 2025.

The Wilmington City Council held its regular meeting on September 9, 2025, at 6:30 PM at City Hall. The meeting included three proclamations, a consent agenda, public comments, four public hearings, three ordinances, and a closed session. The most contentious item was Ordinance O1, which added a code section prohibiting certain actions on city property (camping, sleeping, leaving personal effects, etc.). After extensive debate, the council voted 5-2 to adopt the ordinance with amendments, changing the penalty from a Class 3 misdemeanor to an infraction and removing restrictions on parking decks and surface lots. The council also denied two unfit housing ordinances due to property compliance and continued two rezoning requests. Consent Calendar - Minutes approved from August 18 and 19, 2025 meetings. - Lease authorized for Skyline Center space to GPM Southeast, LLC. - Upset bid approved for 2451 S. College Road for $1,350,000. - Transportation grants approved: FY25-26 Section 5303 Planning Grant and $51,424 for a Trail Signage Pilot Project. - Fleet parts contract awarded to Genuine Parts Company for up to $3,605,000 over three years. - Surplus property donation of two vehicles and two mowers to the Town of Black Mountain. - Kerr Avenue Trail Project grant application authorized for $2,681,347 STBG-DA funds with $670,337 local match. Public Comments & Testimony - Thomas Harris (business owner) supported a camping ban but wished for a 100-foot buffer from businesses and residences. He believed police would not enforce aggressively. - Josh Cranford (downtown resident/worker) noted increased police presence in the last two weeks and urged long-term solutions. - Chap Wallace (downtown business owner) argued the narrative of rounding up homeless was misrepresented; supported the ordinance as a tool for deterrence. - Donald Skinner (former service provider, 23 years) opposed criminalization, emphasizing that housing is essential for stability. Suggested a community-wide task force to create housing solutions. - Virginia May Goldrick (NAMI Wilmington board member) objected to the ordinance, advocating for peer living rooms, crisis respite, and workforce development. - Susan Sabatini (psychotherapist) opposed criminalization, stating it cycles people through jail without addressing root causes like mental health and poverty. - Linda Barnett (long-time resident) sympathized with business owners but argued the ordinance reiterates existing laws. Called for creative, collaborative solutions. - Anna Lee (downtown resident) opposed criminalization, urging council to work with the county and invest in solutions. - James Fischer opposed the ordinance, calling it a strategy that hasn't worked elsewhere; recommended dusting off the previously developed unsheltered homelessness strategy. Discussion Items - Public Hearing PH1 & PH2 (Zoning rezonings) were continued to September 23, 2025 due to an advertising error. Both motions passed 6-0. - Public Hearing PH3 (565 Manly Ave) and PH4 (565-B Manly Ave) were both denied unanimously (7-0) after the City Manager reported the new property owner had brought the properties into sufficient compliance. - Ordinance O1: Certain Actions Prohibited on City Property – Councilmember Joyner moved to strike subsection C (parking decks and surface lots). Mayor Saffo proposed friendly amendments to (1) make violations an infraction rather than a Class 3 misdemeanor, (2) hire four co-responder social workers embedded with police, and (3) direct the City Manager to evaluate city properties for a low-barrier shelter to be donated to a non-profit. After extensive debate, the motion to adopt as amended passed 5-2 (Councilmembers Spears and Andrews opposed). A motion to waive second reading failed 5-2, so a second reading will occur on September 23, 2025. - Ordinance O2: $29,153 supplemental appropriation for equipment and supplies at Halyburton Park Nature Center, Davis Center, and MLK Center – passed unanimously on first reading, second reading waived. - Ordinance O3: $8,075 donations and $3,555 program income to Commission on African American History’s Special Purpose Fund – passed unanimously, second reading waived. - City Manager noted that the proposed Social District item was postponed to September 23, 2025. - Councilmember Andrews announced three additional fare-free weekend days on WAVE Transit during early voting: October 25, 26, and November 1. - Mayor Saffo announced he will send a letter to New Hanover County requesting re-engagement on homelessness issues. Key Outcomes - O1 adopted (5-2) with amendments: violation changed to an infraction; subsection C (parking decks/lots) removed; direction to hire four co-responder social workers; City Manager to evaluate city properties for a low-barrier shelter. - O2 and O3 approved unanimously (both first reading and waiver of second reading). - PH1 and PH2 continued to September 23, 2025 (6-0 each). - PH3 and PH4 denied (7-0 each) due to property compliance. - Consent Agenda approved 7-0. - Closed Session entered into at 10:45 PM to discuss attorney-client privilege and prospective employee qualifications; no action taken after reconvening.

Mayor Bill Saffo convened the Wilmington City Council's agenda briefing at the new City Hall on September 8, 2025. The council reviewed items scheduled for the September 9, 2025 regular meeting, unveiled the City of Wilmington seal, and participated in a ribbon-cutting dedication. Present were Mayor Pro-Tem Clifford Barnett Sr., Councilmembers Charlie Rivenbark, Kevin Spears, Luke Waddell, David Joyner, and Salette Andrews, along with City Clerk Penelope Spicer-Sidbury, City Attorney Meredith Everhart, and City Manager Becky Hawke. New City Hall Dedication & Recognition - Mayor Saffo welcomed attendees to the new Council Chambers and City Hall, noting that previous chambers at the old City Hall had been used since 1990, the Spencer Compton Room had been used earlier, and originally meetings were held in the city manager's office. He also said the city had been in the old City Hall location since 1858. - Council unveiled the City of Wilmington seal for Council Chambers. - The Mayor thanked council members, recognized former City Manager Tony Caudle for his role in the building purchase, and welcomed state Representative Deb Butler, Leland Mayor Brenda Bozeman, and representatives from Congressman McIntyre's office. - Saffo noted the City of Leland's population as around 30,000–35,000 and growing. Consent Agenda Review Mayor Saffo reviewed the following consent items scheduled for the September 9, 2025 meeting: - Approval of minutes. - Resolution authorizing lease of rural property at the Skyline Center to GPM Southeast LLC. - Resolution approving an upset bid at 2451 South College Road for $1,350,000. - Resolution authorizing the city manager to enter into an NCDOT FY 2025–26 Section 5303 planning grant agreement. - Resolution authorizing an application to the Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization's Locally Administered Projects Program for $51,424 for a trail signage pilot project. - Resolution authorizing a three-year contract with Genuine Parts Company of Atlanta, Georgia for Fleet Parts Department integrated supply, up to $3,605,000. - Resolution declaring two vehicles and two mowers surplus and donating them to the Town of Black Mountain. - Resolution authorizing the city manager to apply for $2,681,347 in Surface Transportation Block Grant Direct Attributable funds for the Kerr Avenue Trail Project. Public Hearings Scheduled - PH1: Rezoning of 0.77 acres at 5320 and 5322 Riceville Avenue from R-15 to R-5 CD for a residential development. - PH2: Rezoning of 4.08 acres at 2929 Market Street from OI to MD-17 CD for a 120-unit workforce housing development. - PH3: Directing the housing inspector to vacate, close, and repair the dwelling at 565 Manly Avenue as unfit for human habitation. - PH4: Directing the housing inspector to vacate, close, and repair or demolish the dwelling at 565B Manly Avenue as unfit for human habitation. Ordinance Reviews - O1: Ordinance adding Sections 6 through 10 on certain actions prohibited on city property to Chapter 6, Article 1 of the Wilmington City Code, continued from the August 19, 2025 meeting. - O2: Ordinance making supplemental appropriations of $29,153 in committed revenue funds for equipment, material, and supply purchases at Halliburton Park Nature Center, the Davis Center, and the MLK Center. - O3: Ordinance appropriating $8,075 in donations and $3,555 in program income to the Commission on African American History Special Purpose Funds. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the briefing was informational in preparation for the September 9, 2025 council meeting. - There were no further questions or discussion from council members. - The meeting adjourned at 8:44 a.m., followed by a dedication ceremony and ribbon-cutting for the new building.

Note: The official minutes list the meeting date as Monday, August 18, 2025, but this summary uses the date provided in the instructions (August 19, 2025). The meeting convened at 8:30 a.m. following an Agenda Briefing and recessed at 10:30 a.m., reconvening at approximately 10:45 a.m., adjourning at 11:35 a.m. The City of Wilmington held a Special Council Meeting to discuss issues related to homelessness and unsheltered strategies. Presentations provided data on the local homeless population, existing services, funding, and a proposed camping ordinance. Councilmembers, staff, service providers, and members of the public engaged in lengthy discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Tony Perez, Living Hope Day Center: Stated that 80-90 people come through his day shelter daily; most are local, not from out of town. Proposed using existing regulations rather than creating new ones and focusing on the handful of individuals causing problems. Estimated that most shelter users are first-time homeless. - Hillary Faulk Vaughan, Clinical Director, Physicians Alliance Mental Health: Emphasized that individuals with primary psychotic disorders are often victimized and struggle to maintain housing. Reported that in the past five years, about 60 clients have been forced to leave housing due to crimes perpetrated on them; 20-25 are currently unhoused. Stated that 75% of services are in New Hanover County. She advocated for a combination of housing and stabilization care. - Allen Serkin, Executive Director, Cape Fear Council of Governments: Framed homelessness as a "game of musical chairs" where there are insufficient shelter beds and housing. Noted that shelters are temporary solutions; the real need is permanent housing. Argued that if there is no legal place for homeless individuals to go, they will occupy public or private property, making enforcement difficult. - One male audience member (unidentified): Invited interested parties to a meeting at the Healing Place at 2:00 PM the following day to discuss issues of people coming from out of county for services and becoming homeless in Wilmington. - Another male audience member: Suggested bringing homeless individuals into the meeting or going out to them to ask what they need. (This was followed up by staff noting the Lived Experience Committee.) Discussion Items Unsheltered Update - Rachel Schuler, Director of Housing and Neighborhood Services, presented the housing ecosystem, definitions of unsheltered vs. sheltered, and strategies from the Unsheltered Strategy process (September 2024). Key statistics: nationally, 23 per 10,000 experience homelessness; locally, 12 per 10,000; in Wilmington specifically, an estimated 293 persons (approximately 152 per 10,000). The point-in-time (PIT) count (required in January) over 10 nights in 2025 showed about 506 persons, half sheltered, half unsheltered. The warming shelter operated 34 nights during winter 2024-2025 and housed 175 persons on the coldest nights. - Andrea Stough, Homeless Services Director, Cape Fear Council of Governments (COC), explained that the Cape Fear COC (serving New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender counties) receives relatively low federal funding compared to other regions despite its PIT count. She attributed this to past project renewal issues and competition scores. The return-to-homelessness rate for those placed in housing is less than 5%; 87% of services are provided in New Hanover County. - Councilmember Andrews asked about the voice of the consumer engagement in 2024. Staff reported that participants wanted the public to know they are not all alcoholics/addicts; many are first-time homeless due to economic shocks. - Mayor Saffo inquired about the possibility of a summer PIT count. Staff confirmed an off-cycle count would be possible and relatively low cost; they can prepare a budget. - Councilmember Waddell questioned the incentive to fix the problem when funding is tied to showing how bad it is. Andrea Stough clarified that funding is performance-based, not tied to prevalence. - Mayor Saffo asked about the total annual funding for providers. Rachel Schuler estimated city-funded shelters operate at $2-3 million annually; total for all homelessness services in the city is around $3-5 million. She noted that building a new facility (e.g., 32 beds) could cost $10 million. - Mayor Pro-Tem Barnett asked providers to share what they thought Council was missing. Several responses focused on systemic issues, including insufficient housing and supportive services. Camping Ordinance Discussion - Meredith Everhart, City Attorney, presented a comparison of existing ordinances and the proposed camping ordinance (modeled on New Hanover County). The proposed ordinance would prohibit camping, sleeping, or occupying city property between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, sleeping on city surface parking lots, and sleeping/lying in entrances to city buildings. She highlighted that existing ordinances address many situations (e.g., obstructing sidewalks, trespass) but may be inconsistently applied due to officer discretion and business owner unwillingness to press trespass charges. - Councilmember Andrews objected to the word "occupy" as vague and likely to lead to arbitrary enforcement, suggesting it be removed. Everhart responded that the term is used elsewhere in city code, but Council can substitute terms like "monopolize" or "obstruct." - Interim Chief Evangelous stated that the police department wants to avoid arrests; they typically ask people to move voluntarily. He noted about a dozen "frequent fliers" with serious mental illness who cycle through the hospital and streets due to lack of secure treatment facilities. He added that most homeless are not criminals. - Councilmember Waddell argued that existing mechanisms are enough and proposed focusing on enforcement training rather than a new ordinance. Mayor Saffo and others supported the ordinance as an additional tool, similar to San Francisco's approach combining enforcement with services. - Mayor Saffo noted that cities like San Francisco have seen success with a mix of aggressive social services and enforcement. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken on the camping ordinance; it was scheduled for further discussion at the September meeting. - Directives: City staff were asked to: - Prepare a budget and plan for an off-cycle point-in-time count during summer. - Provide additional training for police officers on existing quality-of-life ordinances (noise, public urination, aggressive panhandling, etc.), regardless of whether the new ordinance passes. - Compile a comprehensive snapshot of total community funding for homelessness (including contributions from county, state, endowments, and private sources). - Next Steps: The proposed camping ordinance will be brought back for Council action at a future meeting. The dialogue on homelessness strategies will continue, with emphasis on exploring a low-barrier men’s shelter and increasing permanent supportive housing.

The Wilmington City Council held its regular meeting on August 19, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the City Hall at Thalian Hall, 102 North 3rd Street, Wilmington, NC. This was the final council meeting held in historic Thalian Hall before the city government moves to its new location at 929 North Front Street. Mayor Bill Saffo presided over the meeting, which included consent agenda approvals, public comments on homelessness and a proposed chaplain program, a public hearing on a dilapidated property, a resolution to begin the process of establishing a railroad quiet zone, appointments to boards and commissions, and the appointment of a new police chief. The meeting also featured a presentation on the future of Thalian Hall and ended with a ceremonial ghost light activation. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the August 4, 2025, Agenda Briefing and August 5, 2025, Regular Meeting. - Adopted a resolution accepting a drainage easement for the Brookshire Lane/Beasley Road Stormwater Improvements Project. - Adopted a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a service contract with BFPE International, Inc. for city-wide alarm system monitoring in the amount of $306,060. - Adopted a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract amendment with Clarke Power Services, Inc. for emergency generator preventive maintenance and repair at multiple locations in the amount of $71,725. - Adopted a resolution authorizing the City Manager to apply for a 2025 Department of Homeland Security Port Security Grant in the amount of $269,000, with a $67,250 local match from the NC Drug Tax Fund. All consent agenda items were approved unanimously (7-0) on a motion by Councilmember Andrews, seconded by Councilmember Joyner. Public Comments & Testimony Nine speakers addressed the council during the public information segment (30 minutes allotted). Key positions expressed: - Chase Daniel George (sixth-generation Wilmington native) spoke in support of establishing a City of Wilmington TPM Chaplain program to serve police, firefighters, and the community during crises, highlighting the need for emotional support and community relationship-building. He framed his remarks with a religious perspective. - Linda Higgins spoke against the proposed camping ordinance, arguing that it would primarily affect the newly homeless who still have cars. She stated that the city lacks a 24-hour plan for homeless individuals and that a designated right place must be established before declaring a wrong place. She suggested more portable toilets as a partial solution. - Cammeron Batanides provided statistics: among the chronically homeless, 50% suffer from PTSD, 53% from traumatic brain injury, 18% from schizophrenia, 19% from bipolar disorder, 20% from intellectual disability, and 92% from personality disorder. She urged education and a non-"one-size-fits-all" approach and mentioned Ryan Dowd's homelessness training as 80% successful in de-escalation. She expressed opposition to the proposed ordinance but advocated for community solutions. - Terri Hudson Mann (native of Wilmington) expressed strong opposition to criminalizing homelessness, stating the city has nowhere to house people. She criticized uncontrolled building and lack of affordable housing, asking where eight low-income housing projects had gone. She proposed using large empty buildings for shelter. - Suraiya Motsinger (owns three downtown businesses) expressed concern that the proposed ordinance would not achieve its intended goals, citing that the Good Shepherd Center—the only emergency shelter in the tri-county area—has 119 beds with a 75-person waiting list and is a 45-minute walk from downtown. She encouraged council members to tour the shelter and engage with faith groups and social workers. - Laurel Taylor spoke against criminalizing homelessness, arguing that it could happen to anyone due to medical debt, job loss, divorce, or mental health issues. She urged treating homeless individuals with dignity and suggested one-on-one outreach. - Bridget Tarrant (downtown resident) questioned the need for the new ordinance, noting existing laws cover most issues except surface street parking. She expressed concern about vagueness in the 10 PM–7 AM prohibition and potential selective enforcement. - Angie Ulmer spoke against the ordinance, challenging the council to find proactive solutions rather than reactive rhetoric. She stated that taking away tents during sleeping hours would cause people to wander. She noted a shortage of shelter beds for men, including veterans, and cited sociological studies showing that 80% of chronically homeless improve when given housing. - Judy Justice (whose daughter experienced homelessness and mental illness) opposed criminalization, stating that 36% of homeless are mentally ill (2019 HUD study) and a more recent analysis of 85 studies found 67% suffer from mental illness. She described her daughter's struggles and urged creating supportive systems rather than making lives worse. Three scheduled speakers (Linda Barnett, Robin Muro, Sonya Muldrow) did not appear. Discussion Items Public Hearing: 2606 Robeson Street Property - Chief Code Enforcement Officer Brian Renner presented the case: a single-family home damaged by fire in 2019, owned by heirs. The property was deemed dilapidated (2024 tax value $76,000; estimated repair cost $41,000, 54% of value). The ordinance directs the housing inspector to vacate, close, and repair or demolish the dwelling within 90 days. Staff had contact with heirs, who intended to sell, but the sale fell through. No utilities connected. No public speakers. Council approved unanimously (7-0) and waived second reading. Resolution R1: Notice of Intent to Establish a Quiet Zone - Economic Development Director Aubrey Parsley presented the resolution to begin the process of establishing a railroad quiet zone (eliminating routine train horn blowing) across 28 at-grade crossings in Wilmington. The process, regulated by FRA, requires baseline safety equipment (flashing lights, gates), which is largely funded by over $15 million from NCDOT and CSX. The quiet zone would apply to horn blowing only; bells would still sound. Two types: qualified in perpetuity or subject to annual review if risk index is below national threshold. Estimated timeline: 1–3 years. The resolution passed unanimously (7-0). Appointments Committee Report (RP1) - Councilmember Rivenbark presented recommendations for multiple boards and commissions, including reappointments and appointments to Cape Fear Public Utility Authority, Civil Service Commission, Downtown Parking Advisory Committee, Firefighters’ Relief Fund Board of Trustees, Municipal Services District Advisory Committee, Port, Waterway & Beach Commission, Sister City Commission, and Zoning Board of Adjustment. Approved unanimously (7-0). Appointment of Police Chief - Council waived rules (7-0) to consider a resolution appointing Ryan M. Zuidema as Chief of Police, effective September 22, 2025. He was selected after a national search by PERF. The resolution passed unanimously (7-0). Chief Zuidema spoke, thanking the council and expressing commitment to the community, the fire department (mentioning the day's explosion), and his wife Jana. He stated, "the toughest job in America is not being a police officer, it's being a spouse or family member of one." Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: All five items approved unanimously (7-0). - Public Hearing PH1: Ordinance for 2606 Robeson Street approved unanimously (7-0) with waived second reading. - Resolution R1: Authorized City Manager to deliver Notice of Intent to Establish a Quiet Zone; approved unanimously (7-0). - Appointments RP1: All recommended appointments and reappointments approved unanimously (7-0). - Police Chief Appointment: Ryan M. Zuidema appointed as Chief of Police, effective September 22, 2025; approved unanimously (7-0). - Thalian Hall Transition: The council held its last meeting in the historic Thalian Hall Council Chambers. Executive Director Shane Fernando presented plans for transforming the entire building into a performance and arts space, including a new 300-seat venue (Hippodrome), archives, and education center. The goal is to double annual visitors from 100,000 to 200,000 and economic impact from $4 million to $8 million. A ceremonial ghost light was activated to mark the transition. The next regular meeting will be held at the new location, 929 North Front Street, on September 9, 2025.

The City of Wilmington Council held an Agenda Briefing meeting on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. at City Hall, Skyline Center, to review items scheduled for the August 19, 2025 Council Meeting. Mayor Bill Saffo presided, with Councilmembers present in person and Councilmember Kevin Spears attending via video conference. The meeting adjourned at 8:38 a.m. Consent Calendar The following items were reviewed and no objections were raised: - C1: Approval of the minutes - C2: Resolution accepting the plan for the Brookshire Lane/Bisby Road Stormwater Improvement Project - C3: Resolution authorizing a service contract with PFB International Incorporated for Citywide Alarm System Monitoring ($36,060) - C4: Resolution authorizing a contract amendment with Clarke Power Services, Inc. for emergency generator preventative maintenance and repair at multiple locations ($71,725) - C5: Resolution authorizing application for a 2025 Department of Homeland Security grant ($269,000 with $67,250 local match) for the North Carolina Drug Tax Fund - PH1: Resolution to vacate, close, and repair a structure, prohibiting its use for occupancy - R1: Resolution authorizing delivery of a Notice of Intent to establish a Quiet Zone with the Federal Railroad Administration Discussion Items - Councilmember Rivenbark inquired about Item C4 regarding generator maintenance. Dave Mayes, Director of Public Works, explained that the generators are set on timers (e.g., every Wednesday at 10 a.m.) and the contractor will perform load testing quarterly; the contract covers preventative maintenance, not emergency repairs. - Mayor Saffo inquired about Item R1 (Quiet Zone). City Manager Becky Hawke and Director of Economic Development Aubrey Parsley provided details: This is the first step in a multi-year process. The Quiet Zone would leverage NCDOT Rail Division improvements to grade crossings, funded by state and federal sources, to create a sealed corridor through Wilmington. Once upgrades are in place, trains would not be required to blow horns at crossings unless unsafe conditions exist. The process involves diagnostic reviews by the railroad and state regulators. The construction agreement with CSX is already approved. Key Outcomes - The council concluded discussion of all items scheduled for the August 19, 2025 regular meeting. - No votes were taken during the briefing; items will be presented for action at the regular meeting. - The meeting adjourned at 8:38 a.m.

The Board of Adjustment of the City of Wilmington held a quasi-judicial public hearing at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 14, 2025, in City Council Chambers, City Hall, 102 North 3rd Street, Wilmington, NC. Chairman Jeff Hovis presided. The meeting addressed approval of prior minutes, a requested continuance for an old business item, and a variance application for a bulkhead replacement. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 17, 2025): Vice-Chair Moore moved to approve the minutes; seconded by Board Member Mitchell. The motion carried 5‑0 unanimously. Discussion Items - Old Business – 1225 Great Oaks Drive (BADV‑2‑725): A variance request to exceed the allowable encroachment within a conservation resource setback area for a bulkhead extension and fill. The applicant requested a continuance to the September 18, 2025, meeting date to provide additional information. Board Member Mitchell moved to continue; seconded by Board Member Thompson. The motion carried 5‑0 unanimously. - New Business – 302 Summer Rest Road (BADV‑3‑825): Variance to allow a bulkhead extension in the R‑20 (Legacy) district. Zoning Administrator Kathryn Thurston presented staff’s case summary, noting the site is a vacant lot with existing riprap revetment and a gazebo installed prior to annexation. The 75‑foot conservation resource setback for coastal wetlands applies. The applicant, Stephen Beacham, represented by Jason Dail (coastal permitting specialist), proposed replacing the deteriorated riprap with a vertical vinyl bulkhead placed landward of the existing revetment, within the 37.5‑foot non‑encroachment area. The applicant stated that the project has a CAMA permit expiring November 9, 2025, and that the bulkhead would be installed entirely within the property boundaries. The northern neighbor (Robert Gibbons) submitted an email indicating he had no issue with the bulkhead in principle, provided the height matched his existing wall. The applicant confirmed he would coordinate with both neighbors and that the bulkhead would include a wing wall to manage runoff. Board members discussed the permissibility of the encroachment, the existing hardened shoreline, and the site‑specific nature of the variance. City staff noted that the city now allows limited encroachment up to half the buffer on a case‑by‑case basis. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition during the evidentiary hearing. Key Outcomes - Variance Granted (302 Summer Rest Road): Board Member Mitchell moved to approve the variance request; seconded by Vice‑Chair Moore. The motion carried 5‑0 unanimously, contingent on the applicant’s CAMA permit. The new bulkhead will be installed approximately at the landward edge of the coastal wetland, replacing the existing riprap. - The next regular Board of Adjustment meeting will be held on September 18, 2025, at the Skyline Center, 929 N. Front Street. Assistant City Attorney Michael Satterfield will serve as the board’s attorney moving forward.

The Wilmington Historic Preservation Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting lasted until 7:25 p.m. and covered nine agenda items, including one continuation and eight decisions on exterior alterations in historic districts. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from July 10, 2025, were approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - For 1619 Chestnut Street, applicant Sean Winders stated the wall project is for making the house a livable home, not a flip or rental, and emphasized the need for privacy and security for his two large dogs. - For 1705 Chestnut Street, representative David Lisle testified that the house requires lifting to address moisture issues and that windows are beyond repair; he was open to using all-wood windows. - For 304 North 15th Street, applicant Alyssa Thompson said the deck and screened porch will enhance the backyard and increase property value, with little visibility from the street. - For 1419 Market Street, applicant Erica Schierholz expressed no preference on drainpipe location but wanted the dryer vent on the rear porch for ease of cleaning. - For 112 South 7th Street, applicant Meagan Bond detailed extensive restoration efforts and explained that chimney removal is necessary due to water intrusion and mold, citing a $12,000 cost to rebuild vs. $1,000 to remove. - For 1403 Market Street, landscape architect Amanda MacLeod and architect Matt Spiba clarified that pavers cannot extend into the right-of-way; Pastor Brock Meyer expressed strong support for the project to improve accessibility and welcome. - For 23 North Front Street, applicant Laurie Jackson thanked staff for historic photographs and noted that the project will seek historic tax credits. Discussion Items - 501 South 5th Avenue (Continued): No additional information was received; the item was continued unanimously to the September 11, 2025, meeting. - 1619 Chestnut Street (Wall installation): Commissioners approved a 6-foot red brick lattice wall and a 6-foot by 9-foot black wood gate on a corner lot after confirming the wall would replace an unstable existing wall. - 1705 Chestnut Street (Major restoration): Following extensive discussion about window restoration vs. replacement, commissioners approved lifting the house onto an elevated slab, replacing doors and most windows, removing a secondary stucco chimney, and restoring siding and trim. The seven windows facing Chestnut Street must be attempted repair; if repair proves infeasible, additional evidence of deterioration is required. The motion included a condition for all-wood replacement windows. - 20 South 3rd Street (Fence installation): Approved a white wood picket fence matching the existing property line fence on a corner lot. The applicant was not present. - 304 North 15th Street (Rear deck with screen porch): Approved a 528-square-foot L-shaped deck with a 14x22-foot screened porch, using composite decking and Hardie siding for new construction. Commissioners accepted the use of Hardie board for new construction. - 1419 Market Street (Dryer vent and drainpipe): Approved relocation of the dryer vent to the rear porch and installation of a drainpipe along the white trim on the rear porch's edge (Option B for vent, Option 2 for pipe) after discussion about minimizing visibility. Chairman Yermal voted no. - 112 South 7th Street (Chimney removal): Approved removal of two non-functional, deteriorated chimneys above the roofline due to water intrusion and safety concerns. Chairman Yermal voted no, preferring rebuilding. - 1403 Market Street (Trinity United Methodist Church site redesign): Approved with 17 conditions a comprehensive site redesign including a new canopy, entry porch, ADA ramp, permeable pavers, fence, monument sign, and parking reconfiguration. Commissioners praised the design quality. - 23 North Front Street (Storefront replacement): Approved replacement of non-original storefront with a new system consistent with historic photographs, using clear glazing and a steel system that will not damage existing iron pilasters. Key Outcomes - All items except the continuation were approved. Votes were 7-0 for most items; two items had a single dissenting vote (Chairman Yermal voted no on 1419 Market Street and 112 South 7th Street). - Continuation: 501 South 5th Avenue continued to September 11, 2025. - Next Meeting: The commission will meet on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the new City Council Chambers at 929 North Front Street. Vice Chair Keston reminded staff to note the venue change on public hearing signs.