Public Meetings - Wilmington, North Carolina

The Wilmington Board of Adjustment convened at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in City Council Chambers at 929 N. Front St., Wilmington, NC. Chair Jeff Hovis called the meeting to order and read the board's quasi-judicial procedures; Planning Coordinator Amy Bradshaw administered the oath to all prospective speakers. All five members were present, along with three alternates and city staff. The board unanimously approved the March 19, 2026 minutes and conducted an evidentiary hearing on a single appeal: whether a structure at 646 Long Leaf Acres Drive is a fence subject to City Code Section 18-325. The board voted 5-0 to overturn the zoning officer's determination, and the meeting adjourned at 1:50 p.m. Approval of Minutes - The March 19, 2026 regular meeting minutes were approved as revised by a 5-0 vote (motion by Vice-Chair Patrick Moore, seconded by Alain Norman). New Business: 646 Long Leaf Acres Drive (BACEO-1-426) - Planning Manager Patrick O'Mahony presented the city's case. Following an anonymous complaint, a zoning inspection on January 30, 2026 found a structure approximately 12 feet in height (the minutes state it exceeded 12 feet) along the southwest property line of the R-15 zoned property. It was located within the 20-foot front setback, intersected the front property line, and its structural supports faced the adjacent property. A notice of violation was sent February 6, 2026, and the applicant appealed March 2, 2026. - Staff explained that the Land Development Code does not define "fence" and cited two dictionary definitions: "a barrier that defines a property line and closes or borders on a field, yard, or the like" and "a barrier intended to prevent escape or intrusion or to mark a boundary." Fence regulations limit front-yard fences to 4 feet in height, side/rear-yard fences to 8 feet, prohibit chain link in front setbacks, and require structural components to face inward, not toward adjacent properties. - Applicant Nicole Jones argued the structure is a lacrosse backstop, not a fence. She stated it was installed exclusively for recreational and safety purposes, to contain high-speed lacrosse balls (her son shoots at about 90 mph) during daily athletic training and to protect neighboring homes and vehicles from stray balls. She said it does not define property boundaries, provide privacy, restrict access, or obstruct views; that neighbors were consulted beforehand and support it; and that the family plans to remove it when no longer needed, by approximately 2032, when her daughter is expected to graduate college. - Staff responded that code exceptions for backstops apply to tennis courts and ball fields, which are recreation facilities not permitted on single-family residential lots. Public Comments & Testimony - Fred Pickler (649 Long Leaf Acres Drive) spoke in support, saying he had retrieved 50-60 stray lacrosse balls over the years and describing the structure as protecting neighbors' property and providing a safe practice space for the children, who he said have no ill intent. - Walter O'Connor (642 Long Leaf Acres Drive) spoke in support, recounting his own 2016 experience with anonymous code complaints and asking the board to consider the request favorably. - Judy Collins (266 Dallas Drive; the transcript identifies her as "Julie Collins") spoke in support, describing the backstop as professionally constructed, thoughtfully planned, and visually unobtrusive, and urged the board to consider waiving fees or fines if it voted against the appeal. Board Deliberations - A board member reported visiting the property and concluded the structure does not meet the common definitions of a fence because it does not mark a boundary, provide enclosure, or prevent intrusion; another member agreed the definition did not match. Discussion also covered construction materials, regulations for sporting equipment on residential properties, and setback requirements. - Assistant City Attorney Michael Satterfield advised that the legal standard is a preponderance of the evidence supported by competent, material, and substantial evidence, and that the board could not attach a condition (such as a June 2032 removal deadline) to a determination of this type. - In discussion, board members noted that the code permits private tennis courts if setbacks are met, as an analogous use, and that the removal of local athletic fields referenced by the applicant is controlled by the county and Board of Education, outside city jurisdiction. Key Outcomes - Vice-Chair Moore moved to overturn the city's determination that the structure constituted a fence; Norman seconded; the motion passed 5-0. - The board concluded the structure did not satisfy the commonly accepted definition of a fence because it was not intended to mark boundaries, provide enclosure, or prevent intrusion. - The next regular Board of Adjustment meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2026. Note: The final paragraph of the raw transcript contains unrelated content from a Wilmington City Council meeting (including proclamations, a Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report public hearing, and Historic Preservation Commission procedures) that does not appear in the Board of Adjustment agenda or minutes; it appears to be extraneous transcription material.

The Wilmington Historic Preservation Commission met on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers at 929 North Front Street, Wilmington, NC. Chairman Christopher Yermal presided; Commissioners Joan Keston, Beth Rutledge, Stephen Sulkey, Alison Watts, and Ashley Wilson were present, and Ross Tomaselli was absent. The quasi-judicial hearing included sworn testimony, staff reports, design-standard review, and votes on eight evidentiary matters. All votes were 6-0. Approval of Minutes - The minutes of the March 12, 2026 regular meeting were approved unanimously (6-0) as presented. Evidentiary Hearings – Decisions - 230 McRae Street – New house construction: Continued to May 14, 2026, because staff said additional applicant information was needed. - 226 South Front Street – Major renovation and rear addition: Approved with staff conditions and use of Rear Porch Proposal Option 3. - 503 Grace Street – After-the-fact carport: Denied. - 16 North 16th Street – Front awning on St. Paul’s Episcopal Church: Approved with staff conditions. - 107 South 5th Avenue – Window alterations and foundation infill: Approved with conditions, including brick selection and mortar review at the administrative bypass level, softer mortar (Type N or softer, not Type S) for repointing, and retention of window trim while infilling the former opening. - 214 North 7th Street – New double porch: Approved with staff conditions. - 211 Polvogt Alley – Replacing fence gates with interior doors: Denied. - 109 South 7th Street – Garage roof modification: Withdrawn before the hearing; no vote. - 410 North 15th Street – Side patio to deck construction: Approved with staff conditions. Public Comments & Testimony - Molly Simon (308 South Front Street) expressed concern about the increase in square footage at 226 South Front Street and the possibility of future development on the adjacent parcel. Staff clarified the conditioned square footage would grow from approximately 4,430 square feet to 6,304 square feet. - Anthony Demings (812 Macumber Alley) spoke against the 503 Grace Street carport, saying it looked inconsistent with the historic district and preferred an attached structure with a roof matching the house. - Greg Thompson (109 South Fifth Avenue), the neighboring property owner, supported the 107 South 5th Avenue project but raised concerns about deteriorated brick piers, structural integrity, and appropriate brick and mortar selection. He submitted additional photographs. - Tim Schombert, property owner at 211 Polvogt Alley, spoke in favor of the door-gate proposal and offered to reduce the door height. - Lindsey Richards, owner of the adjacent 213 Polvogt Alley property, expressed concerns about fence height, access, maintenance, and the fence’s proposed location. - No public comment was offered on the 214 North 7th Street or 410 North 15th Street applications. Discussion Items - 226 South Front Street: Staff reported the project included front porch reconstruction, a second-story front balcony, window and siding restoration, a rear addition and covered rear porch, brick foundation repair/painting, and new garage carriage doors; the roof color was changed from black to gray. Applicant Brooks Addis said the owners preferred the first rear porch option, but the commission selected Option 3 because its scale was more compatible. - 503 Grace Street: The carport was a 10-foot by 15-foot galvanized steel structure, about 8 feet high at the center and 6 feet 3 inches on the sides, and not permanently affixed. The applicant’s representative said it was at the end of the driveway, did not create a false sense of history, and submitted a neighborhood petition. Commissioners cited appearance, precedent, and storm-safety concerns, but indicated a redesigned, more compatible structure could be considered in the future. - 16 North 16th Street: Applicant Maitland DuBois said existing church doors had sun and water damage and the awning would protect planned $25,000 mahogany replacement doors; the copper and black metal elements were intended to complement the church. Caleb Lee, the church rector/director, reiterated that new doors were planned and the awning was meant to protect them. - 107 South 5th Avenue: Applicant representative Brian Saunders, the general contractor, said the bathroom window would be reused at the kitchen to improve the layout, with matching wood siding and brick curtain walls inset about three inches. Commissioners discussed historically appropriate mortar, brick selection, and preserving evidence of the original window opening. - 214 North 7th Street: Applicant Kate Holliday said balusters would be custom-made to resemble the front porch and the rear railings would meet current code. The commission discussed whether gutters should be copper or stainless steel because of theft concerns. - 211 Polvogt Alley: The request involved two reclaimed six-panel interior wood doors, 80 inches tall plus an optional four-inch header, used as fence gates in place of a 36-inch-wide gate and a 32-inch-wide gate. Applicant Phillip Hickson requested the interior doors for a more artistic appearance and privacy related to neighboring Airbnb activity. Staff confirmed no prior approval existed for using interior doors as fence gates, and the fence itself had already been approved through the administrative bypass process. Commissioners considered the door material inappropriate and a poor precedent. - 410 North 15th Street: Applicant Greg Vasser proposed an 18-foot by 24-foot Trex composite deck in “Malted Barley,” with permanently affixed countertops and a grill, partially visible from the public right-of-way; he had no additional comments. Key Outcomes - All motions passed 6-0. - The commission continued 230 McRae Street to May 14, 2026. - Approved: 226 South Front Street, 16 North 16th Street, 107 South 5th Avenue, 214 North 7th Street, and 410 North 15th Street. - Denied: 503 Grace Street and 211 Polvogt Alley. - Withdrawn: 109 South 7th Street. - Staff reported that the local landmark designation for the Marietta William House will be considered by City Council on April 21, 2026. - Staff reported that a tree inspection identified 12 trees at 125, 202, and 210 South Third Street as at the end of their lifespan; they will be removed and replaced. Commissioners requested more information on species and replacement plans; staff indicated most were likely laurel oaks. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for May 14, 2026. The meeting adjourned at 7:37 p.m.

The Wilmington City Council met in regular session at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, in Council Chambers at Skyline Center, 929 N. Front Street. Mayor Bill Saffo presided with Mayor Pro-Tem Kevin Spears and Councilmembers David Joyner, Salette Andrews, J.C. Lyle, Cassidy Santaguida, and Chakema Clinton-Quintana. The Council honored the Leadership Wilmington Class of 2026, proclaimed April 9, 2026 as Local News Day, approved the consent agenda, denied two rezoning requests, approved all remaining ordinances and resolutions unanimously, and later reconvened from closed session to authorize a settlement. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of special meetings on Feb. 9, Feb. 27, Feb. 28, and March 23, 2026. - Authorized a professional services agreement with CIGNA for medical insurance and administrative services. - Adopted the 2026 Southeastern North Carolina Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan. - Authorized a contract with Odyssey Mechanical LLC for HVAC replacement in the Skyline Center main data center. - Authorized application for a $17,500,000 U.S. EDA FY2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant with a required $3,500,000 local match for the Riverfront Bulkhead Replacement Project. - Authorized a $1,500,000 contract amendment with JYMCO Construction for annual sidewalk maintenance. - Authorized a $3,000,000 contract amendment with Highland Paving Company for annual roadway maintenance. - Authorized application to NCDOT for a 2026 Multimodal Network Planning Grant. - Approved as a block, 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Bullock, speaking on behalf of citizens along the Eastwood Corridor and the Wrightsville Beach Chamber of Commerce, urged Council to revisit the Military Cutoff/Eastwood Road overpass project (U-5710). She said scheduling it with the three-bridge repairs would hurt businesses for four to six years, the cost has grown from $80 million to $100 million, and NCDOT/WMPO did not respond to earlier requests. She expressed support for an at-grade alternative with smart lighting and added lanes. - Genesis Espinoza asked Council for clarification and accountability in the death of her brother Edilberto Espinoza Sierra, who was killed March 8, 2026 by Wilmington police and sheriff's deputies. She said the family was not notified in person, identified him only through his ID, and did not see his body until March 18. She asked that officers' names be released, officers be fired, and body-camera footage be released. - Madison Morrison, a city resident, said the judicial system fails citizens, citing the cases of Connor Mahoney, Jason Summers, and Michael Trey. She questioned whether crime is down or underreported and called for accountability. - Max Hammer and Be Lanier, high school students with the NC Tobacco 21 Coalition, said North Carolina's high-school vaping rate is more than triple the national average and that North Carolina is one of only six states allowing sales to 18-year-olds. They asked Council to support Solly's Law, which would raise the purchasing age to 21, in memory of Solomon Solly Wynn. - Joy North, Alec Chambers' mother, requested renaming Greenfield Grind Skate Park in Alec's honor and said Filmwerks Inc. has offered to donate toward signage. Public Hearings PH1 – 910 S. 8th Street Rezoning - Staff recommended approval of a request to rezone the property from R-5 (8 units per acre, 35-foot height limit) to UMX, Urban Mixed-Use. Planner Todd Rademacher said the site is beside an 18-unit mixed-use building approved in September 2023 and is in a neighborhood-scale infill area. One opposition comment cited the loss of a single-family home. - Applicant representative Cindee Wolfe said combining the lot with the adjacent project would add parking and open space; the plan would lose one home but provide 17 more. She confirmed the 18 new units will be market-rate rentals and the existing house is vacant and in poor repair. - Councilmember Joyner moved to deny, reading a consistency statement that the rezoning is inconsistent with the desired development pattern of the surrounding area. The motion passed 5-2, with Mayor Saffo and Councilmember Lyle voting no. PH2 – 4118 Market Street Rezoning - Senior Planner Patrick O'Mahony presented a request to rezone the Studio 6 hotel from RB to MD-17(CD) to convert the motel into 76 dwelling units, including 20 workforce housing units at 80% AMI for 15 years. The applicant received Board of Adjustment variances for density, open space, and parking; the site would provide 5.9% open space versus the 20% requirement and 68 parking spaces versus the 80-space requirement. - Staff recommended denial because the proposal lacked amenities, usable open space, and site enhancements. The Planning Commission recommended approval 3-1. - Applicant representative Nicholas Silivanch described the project as adaptive reuse, cited the success of prior conversions at River City Studio Homes and Vivio Apartments, and said units would lease at locked-in HUD High HOME rents plus market-rate efficiency units with utilities included. Councilmembers questioned unit size (about 250 square feet), parking, walkability, rent levels, and whether the rooms meet the definition of an efficiency apartment. - City Manager Becky Hawke said the units lack a real kitchen (hot plate and microwave only) and argued that true adaptive reuse would combine rooms to create genuine living spaces. - Three public speakers opposed the request: an unidentified man called the arrangement exploitation of desperate renters; Philip White of 1904 Washington Street, a Zoning Board of Appeals member in Amherst, Massachusetts, said the proposed front green space was not legally usable green space; and an unidentified bank manager said her full-time employees cannot afford the rent and that residents still need cars because WAVE lacks choice ridership. - Councilmember Andrews moved to deny, and the motion passed 7-0. PH3 – FY2027 Annual Action Plan for CDBG & HOME Funds - Community Development and Housing Manager Gilbert Combs presented the draft plan. CDBG funds are down about 6% and HOME funds about 1%, with federal allocations falling by more than $57,000; administrative support would be supplemented by the City's Affordable Housing Fund. - Survey priorities included homebuying assistance, emergency shelters, job training/apprenticeships, youth services, housing at or below 80% AMI, and permanent supportive housing. The plan also supports the HOP program and owner-occupied rehabilitation. - The public comment period ends April 10, 2026. This was a public hearing only; no action was taken. Adoption is scheduled for the May 5, 2026 meeting. Reports - Council voted 7-0 to waive rules to hear the Naming and Facilities Committee report early. - Councilmember Clinton-Quintana, committee chair, reported that the rename of Greenfield Grind Skate Park to the Alec Chambers Skate Park was approved unanimously by the committee; the request to rename the tennis courts at Robert Strange Park's 8th Street Center in honor of Lenny Simpson was continued; and the Wilmington Revolutionary 250th Art project was approved. - Parks and Recreation Director Amy Beatty said the City appropriated $25,000 in June 2025 and selected Canceled Cups by Lauren Pallotta Stumberg and Dumay Gorham from 12 proposals, honoring the women of the Wilmington Tea Walk. Staff recommended considering a temporary installation at the 305 Chestnut Street celebration pop-up park. - Council approved the committee's recommendations unanimously 7-0, and staff will provide a timeline for the skate park renaming. Ordinances & Resolutions - O1: Ordinance reappropriating $1.7 million in Building Improvements capital funds – $1.25 million to a reserve for leased-facility maintenance and $450,000 for broker commissions – was approved 7-0; second reading waived. - O2: Ordinance appropriating $212,285 in insurance reimbursement funds to the Parks and Recreation Capital Projects Fund for the nCino Sports Complex project was approved 7-0; second reading waived. Staff explained the funds cover damage from a January 2025 freeze and a new inclement-weather plan has been added to the lease. - O3a/O3b: Supplemental appropriation of $131,078 from the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority and an interlocal agreement for the Front Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project were approved. The appropriation and agreement reimburse the City for work on a 10-inch CFPUA waterline that must remain active during construction. Minutes record unanimous approval; the posted agenda listed the O3a vote as 6-0. - R1: Amendment to City Policy 212 – Paid Leave was approved 7-0, adding eight hours per year of paid leave for City-sponsored volunteer events and allowing comp time for after-hours/weekend service. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 7-0. - PH1 denied 5-2; PH2 denied 7-0. - Naming and Facilities Committee recommendations approved 7-0. - O1, O2, O3a, O3b, and R1 all approved, generally unanimously, with second readings waived for ordinances. - Council authorized a closed session under N.C. Gen. Stat. §143-318.11(a)(3) and (a)(9). After reconvening, Council voted unanimously to authorize a $344,800 settlement agreement in the case of City of Wilmington v. Gamma Zeta Foundation, Inc. - Councilmembers announced upcoming events, including a Nicholas Sorenson scholarship volleyball tournament on April 25 and a $15,000 Making Waves Foundation grant for bus passes. - Mayor Saffo reported on western North Carolina's Hurricane Helene recovery, with damage totaling about $64 billion, and encouraged continued tourism there. - Meeting adjourned at 10:29 p.m.; the next regular meeting is scheduled for April 21, 2026.

The Wilmington City Council held an Agenda Briefing on April 6, 2026, at 8:30 AM in City Hall to review the agenda for the April 7, 2026 regular meeting. Mayor Bill Saffo presided with all councilmembers present. The meeting primarily consisted of a presentation and discussion on the annual update of opioid settlement funds, along with review of consent agenda items and public hearing items. Consent Calendar The consent calendar included the following items, which were read out but not individually discussed: - C1: Approval of minutes - C2: Resolution for a professional services agreement with Signa Health for medical insurance - C3: Resolution adopting the 2026 Southeastern NC Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan - C4: Resolution for HVAC system replacement contract with Odyssey Mechanical LLC - C5: Resolution to apply for a $17,500,000 grant from the EDA with a $3,500,000 local match for the Riverfront Bulkhead Replacement Project - C6: Contract amendment of $1,500,000 with JYMCO for sidewalk maintenance - C7: Contract amendment of $3,000,000 with Highland Paving for roadway maintenance - C8: Resolution to apply for a NCDOT multimodal network planning grant Public Hearings The following public hearings were scheduled for the April 7 meeting but were not discussed in detail: - PH1: Rezoning of 910 South 8th Street from R-5 to UMX - PH2: Rezoning of 4118 Market Street from RB to MD-17 (CD) for a 76-unit development - PH3: Public hearing on the 2027 Annual Action Plan for CDBG and HOME funds Councilmember Lyle requested a full-size site plan for PH2 (4118 Market Street) to better review the proposal; City Manager Hawke agreed to provide it. Discussion Items: Opioid Settlement Funds Annual Update City Attorney Meredith Everhart introduced Eric Credle, CFO of New Hanover County, who presented the annual update on the joint opioid settlement funds. Key points from the presentation and discussion: - The City and County participate in the National Opioid Settlement, one of the first in NC. Funds are pooled under an interlocal agreement administered by a Joint Staff Committee (7 members, chairs alternate yearly) and a Joint Elected Officials Committee (2 county commissioners + 1 councilmember). This year, City Manager Becky Hawke chairs the staff committee and Councilmember David Joyner chairs the elected committee. - Total allocated to date: $36.4 million, with an additional $4.4 million in pending settlements awaiting court approval. Payments are made over 15-18 years, with larger amounts in early years. - The local overdose rate was 40% higher than the national average. Non-fatal overdoses declined from 600 in 2021 through 2025; fatal overdoses declined from a peak of 110 to 37 in 2025. (Councilmember Joyner noted the 2025 fatal figure was through October.) - The five-year strategy focuses on three areas: Education & Outreach, Access to Services & Treatment, and Sustainable Recovery & Well-being. Currently 15-20 programs are funded annually via one-year contracts with renewal options. Each contract has key performance indicators (KPIs): outcome, quantity, and quality metrics, with quarterly reporting. Monthly "COMPASS" meetings bring providers together for collaboration. - The recommended FY 2026-27 budget maintains similar programs with some adjustments. For example, the Case Management Support program ($75,000 in FY26) was not renewed because the need was met through wraparound services provided directly by funded providers. A new "Strategy Development Survey" line item was added to conduct a third-party customer satisfaction survey ahead of the required four-year strategic plan refresh. - Council discussion: Councilmember Lyle asked about KPI specifics (client outcomes, sobriety levels). Councilmember Andrews asked where performance data is available (State's Core NC website and a county annual report). Councilmember Clinton-Quintana asked whether manufacturers are included in the settlements; Credle confirmed several manufacturers have settled, with one large pending (Purdue/Sackler) included in the $4.4 million. - Councilmember Joyner commended the progress and noted that funds will continue through FY 2039 but with decreasing amounts; the strategy is to fund effective programs that may eventually be absorbed into the county's public health budget. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken at this agenda briefing. The opioid settlement fund recommendations presented are expected to be approved as part of the county's budget process absent council objections. - Councilmember Lyle's request for a full-size site plan for PH2 (4118 Market Street) was granted. - An Appointments Committee meeting was scheduled to follow the agenda briefing.

The Wilmington Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Council Chambers, Skyline Center, 929 North Front Street, Wilmington, NC. All six present members (Chairman John Lennon, Vice-Chair Danny Adams, Commissioners Collier, Jones, Pollock, and Woodruff) participated; Commissioner Cofer was excused. The meeting adjourned at 7:32 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (March 4, 2026): Approved unanimously (6–0) without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke or submitted written comments for either public hearing. Discussion Items 1. Land Development Code Amendment: Semi-Permanent Structures in CBD (LDC-5-426) Staff Planner Grace Lamay presented a proposed amendment to City Code Chapter 18, Sections 18-43 and 18-44(c) to allow semi-permanent structures (e.g., shipping containers) as accessory uses in the Central Business District (CBD). The amendment would: - Permit only one semi-permanent structure per lot. - Limit use to food and beverage service accessory to existing restaurants and nightclubs. - Apply only to properties with principal buildings existing as of May 5, 2026 (the potential council adoption date). - Require structures to meet size, appearance, and setback conditions, including painting to complement the primary building. - Subject structures in the Historic District Overlay to additional Historic Preservation Commission review. Applicant Joe Apkarian, owner of Eagle’s Dare, explained that he received four zoning violations for a shipping container used as a secondary bar and storage. After the Board of Adjustment recommended pursuing a text amendment rather than variances, he submitted this proposal. He noted the container is designed to complement the main building and that similar architecture is increasingly common. Commissioners discussed: - The origin of the request and the role of the Board of Adjustment. - Restricting uses to food/beverage to avoid unintended uses. - Concerns about structures placed in front of principal buildings, especially long sides facing streets, which could obstruct views and create traffic hazards on corner lots. - Potential for unintended consequences if the amendment is applied broadly. Staff Director Linda Painter suggested adding a condition requiring the narrow portion of the structure to face the primary street frontage (or the street with higher functional classification on corner lots) and placing the long side as close to the interior lot line as possible. 2. General Rezoning: 136 E Westwood Drive (Z-4-426) Staff Planner Haley Hopkins presented a request to rezone a 0.349-acre vacant lot (Parcel ID R05105-001-018-000) from MH (Manufactured Housing) to R-15 (Moderate Density Single-Dwelling District). The site is at the intersection of East Westwood Drive and Lance Drive. The applicant, Cindee Wolf of Design Graphics (on behalf of the property owner), noted that the Westwood subdivision historically consisted of individually owned 15,000 sq ft lots originally used for mobile homes but now transitioning to single-family homes. The applicant intends to build a single-family home and possibly an accessory dwelling unit. Surrounding properties include vacant lots and established R-15 zoning. Staff found modest support for the request under the Create Wilmington Comprehensive Plan and recommended approval. Key Outcomes - LDC Amendment (Semi-Permanent Structures): The Commission voted 6–0 to recommend approval of the amendment with an additional condition regarding structure orientation (narrow side facing primary street, with corner lot provisions) as proposed by staff. The motion was made by Commissioner Collier and seconded by Vice-Chair Adams. - Rezoning (136 E Westwood Drive): The Commission voted 6–0 to recommend approval as presented. The motion was made by Commissioner Pollock and seconded by Commissioner Jones. - Other Business: - The Process Improvement Subcommittee (Commissioners Pollock, Jones, Collier) reported that they will focus on application intake procedures, transparency, and efficiency. - Staff Director Painter announced an internal departmental realignment: Planning Commission items will transition to the Community Planning & Design team, with new staff presenters (Haley Hopkins, Hillary Taylor, Tucker Cherry) handling future cases. - The next regular Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

The Wilmington City Council held a budget work session on March 30, 2026, to discuss the FY27 budget. City Manager Becky Hawke presented a detailed overview of revenue challenges, expenditure pressures, organizational realignment, workforce retention issues, capital improvement funding, and potential tax adjustment options. No formal votes were taken; the session was informational to guide staff in refining the budget before the official presentation on May 5, 2026. Discussion Items - Budget Development Schedule: Hawke outlined the timeline: official budget presentation on May 5, 2026; public hearing on May 19; adoption expected June 2 or 16. The city must adopt a budget by June 30. - Natural Revenue Growth vs. Ongoing Costs: Hawke explained that Wilmington's natural revenue growth (historically averaging 2% per year) is not keeping pace with rising costs, including wage pressures, healthcare cost escalations, state-mandated retirement contributions, and contractual inflation. For FY27, the natural growth in property tax revenue is projected at only 0.79% due to revaluation appeals. Sales tax growth is projected at 2.5%, a modest estimate given economic uncertainty and international conditions. - Property Tax Appeals Impact: As of the meeting, 2,548 parcels had filed appeals totaling $7.9 billion in valuation, with an additional 69 parcels in the municipal service district ($682 million). The resulting value loss after appeals is about $1.9 billion, significantly reducing expected revenue. Hawke noted that the county's appeal loss projection may have underestimated the actual impact, and the appeal process continues through May. - Revenue Outlook Summary: Property tax performance is below expectations due to appeals. Sales tax growth is moderated by external factors. The city has historically underutilized revenue capacity during reappraisal years, leaving potential tax levy untapped. - Organizational Realignment and Efficiencies: Hawke reported a net reduction of 25.19 FTEs in the FY27 budget compared to FY26 through realignment. Further savings from attrition are expected. The realignment aims to streamline workflows, reduce duplication, and improve service delivery. Councilmember Lyle expressed concern about eliminating administrative assistant positions while adding manager roles; Hawke clarified that new managers are working managers, not exclusively supervisory. - Workforce Vacancy and Retention Challenges: Citywide vacancy rate is 12.4%; police and fire vacancy rate is 20.8%, considered a critical staffing gap. Currently, 138 employees (13%) earn below 60% of Area Median Income (AMI), and 517 employees (51%) earn below 80% AMI. The proposed living wage adjustment would bring 100% of employees to at least 60% AMI (up from 85%) and 74% to 80% AMI (up from 47%). First responders (65% of workforce, 746 FTEs) would see an average pay increase of 19.3%. Hawke warned of service degradation without intervention, particularly in police and fire. Mayor Saffo noted that service degradation affects core services like public safety and trash collection. - Major Cost Drivers – General Fund: Total cost pressures amount to $20.92 million, including $14.2 million for employee compensation (living wage), $774,000 for state-mandated retirement contributions, $3.5 million for health insurance (keeping benefits flat; city likely to change providers to improve customer service but absorb the full cost increase), $516,000 for WAVE Transit (base increase to meet current service levels), $535,000 for utility rate increases, and $1.4 million for other items (insurance premiums, IT/fleet replacement, contracts). Department requests add $2.93 million: a cybersecurity officer ($147,000), IT support for public safety ($184,000), deferred core operating needs ($499,000, including ballistic vest upgrades and fleet parts), fire and police safety equipment ($1.6 million), and repair/maintenance ($500,000). - Capital Improvement Program Update: The staff-recommended CIP funding scenario is 0.51 cents per $100 valuation (down from 0.61 cents previously discussed), totaling $50.2 million, including a $13.3 million grant for bulkhead projects. The total funding gap including CIP is $22.1 million, equating to 6.26 cents total tax adjustment if all items are funded. Hawke stressed she is not recommending that full amount but presented it for discussion. She stated she does not see a scenario without a tax increase in FY27. - New Park Acquisition: The city contributed $1 million toward a $9.75 million purchase of 25 acres for a park in a park-deficient area, in partnership with New Hanover County and the New Hanover Community Endowment. The county will not contribute to construction or maintenance; the city is the sole owner. Construction is targeted for FY30–FY34. A year-long community input process will begin. - Tax Adjustment Options and Property Owner Impact: Hawke presented tax rate scenarios based on the median single-family home value of $445,000. A 6.26-cent increase would mean $279/year ($23/month) for that homeowner; 6 cents = $267/year ($22/month); 5 cents = $223/year ($19/month); 4 cents = $179/year ($15/month). For a $250,000 home, 6.26 cents = $157/year ($13/month); 4 cents = $100/year ($8/month). For an $800,000 home, 6.26 cents = $501/year ($42/month); 4 cents = $320/year ($27/month). She indicated that a 4-cent increase would allow only about 40% of the living wage implementation, and anything below 4 cents would further reduce it. - Golf Fund Enterprise Status: Hawke suggested that the municipal golf fund should operate as a true enterprise fund, fully self-sustaining. The general fund currently transfers $200,000 annually to support the golf course. Director of Parks and Recreation Amy Beatty noted the average greens fee is $49. A $2 greens fee increase and $2 punch card increase are proposed for FY27 to balance the golf fund budget, but that would not address the $200,000 transfer. Rates have been raised six times in ten years. The golf course has approximately 60,000 rounds annually and remains one of the cheapest in the area. - Councilmember Comments and Questions: Mayor Saffo expressed strong concern about the magnitude of the proposed tax increase (6.26 cents), the highest he can recall, and emphasized the burden on residents, especially low-income homeowners. He suggested a phased implementation of the living wage. Councilmember Santaguida asked for details on phased implementation and the compression effects of the living wage. Councilmember Andrews requested data on staff living within city limits (later reported as 28% of 302 staff). Councilmember Spears questioned the cybersecurity officer position and the potential savings from hiring certified police officers versus new recruits. Councilmember Joyner requested information on tax abatement programs for low-income homeowners. Councilmember Clinton-Quintana supported pursuing alternative funding sources beyond property taxes. Councilmember Lyle questioned the organizational realignment, particularly the loss of administrative positions. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made. The work session was informational to guide budget refinement. - City Manager Hawke will continue evaluating budget proposals, incorporate realignment efficiencies, refine the tax adjustment based on council feedback, update revenue projections, and present a balanced budget on May 5, 2026. - Council indicated openness to a phased approach to the living wage (e.g., implementing 40% in FY27 and completing it in FY28) rather than full implementation in one year. Staff will provide detailed scenarios. - Staff will provide council with salary data to illustrate the compression effects of the living wage proposal, including current pay and proposed pay for all employees. - Information on property tax relief programs for low-income residents (county-administered) will be circulated to council. - The golf fund will be reviewed for potential self-sufficiency; a $2 fee increase is expected, and the $200,000 general fund transfer may be discontinued if council approves in future discussions. - CIP funding at 0.51 cents (including park design) remains the staff recommendation. - Staff will continue to pursue grant funding for bulkheads (over 100 letters of support received) and other capital projects. - The county will be asked to provide a 10-year history of how much of the assessed value growth is attributable to new development. - A list of new job descriptions will be uploaded to the city website for council review.

Meeting Overview The Wilmington City Council convened on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation, consent agenda with several items pulled for discussion, public comments, a public hearing, ordinances, resolutions, and reports. The meeting adjourned at 8:07 PM after entering closed session. Presentation - Proclamation naming March 29, 2026 as Vietnam Veterans Day. Mayor Saffo presented the proclamation to Vietnam Veteran Mr. Rossie Nance, who made brief remarks thank the council and community. Consent Calendar - C1: Approved minutes of four prior meetings (Budget Worksession, Legislative Delegation, Agenda Briefing, Regular Council). - C2: Authorized contract amendment of $461,840 with JENNS, LLC for brick street maintenance. - C3: Declared 52 Motorola radios surplus for donation to Holly Ridge and New Hanover County. - C4: Withdrawn. Resolution to authorize funding for Wilmington Police Department transition from shotguns to rifles was withdrawn by motion of Mayor Pro-Tem Spears, seconded by Councilmember Clinton-Quintana, carried unanimously. - C5: Discussed separately (see below). - C6: Authorized application for a $5,000 Governor’s Highway Safety Program FY27 BikeSafe Regional Coordinator Grant. - C7: Authorized the Mayor to sign a public comment letter on Duke Energy’s Biennial Carbon Plan and Integrated Resource Plan. - C8: Discussed separately (see below). - The remaining consent items (C1, C2, C3, C6, C7) were approved unanimously on a single motion. Items Pulled for Discussion - C5: Resolution authorizing the purchase of 25 pursuit-rated Tahoes from Capital Chevrolet for $1,325,175 from the Fleet Replacement Fund. Councilmember Joyner noted the fleet transition study by ICF International, data collected June–November 2025, deadline extended to April 26, 2026. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - C8: Resolution amending Housing Affordability Advisory Committee bylaws to remove the requirement for a Homebuilders Association member. After debate, council agreed to keep the homebuilders seat and add two additional at-large members (total 13). Motion to approve as amended passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Jack Pollock (city resident): Announced that Major James Capers, a highly decorated Marine, will receive the Medal of Honor after final Senate legislation passed in early March. He thanked the council for a prior supportive resolution. - Joel Barrio (city resident): Opposed the now-withdrawn resolution for police rifle funding, citing the ongoing investigation into the shooting of Edilberto Espinoza-Sierra. He urged council not to approve such funding until the investigation concludes. Public Hearings - PH1: Resolution approving an amendment to an installment financing contract not to exceed $75,000,000 to finance and refinance various city projects. Finance Director Martha Wayne explained: $25 million new debt (parks maintenance, street/sidewalk rehab) and $50 million refinancing (estimated savings $340,000 from 2015A and $1.4 million from 2016 series). The item will go to the Local Government Commission on April 1, 2026, with planned closing in May. No public speakers. Motion to approve passed unanimously. Discussion Items - O.1: Ordinance amending City Code Chapter 1 (definitions). City Attorney Meredith Everhart said this is part of a systematic code rewrite. No substantive changes. Approved unanimously on first reading; second reading waived unanimously. - O.2a: Resolution accepting public streets, pedestrian improvements, and storm drainage facilities within William Booth Drive. Plan Review Engineer Rob Gordon corrected the total roadway construction cost to $1,464,758 (including change orders) and total roadway value to $1,581,110. 0.45 miles of roadway accepted. Approved unanimously. - O.2b: Ordinance establishing a 25 mph speed limit on William Booth Drive. Approved unanimously on first reading; second reading waived unanimously. - R1: Resolution authorizing issuance of not-to-exceed $15,000,000 Storm Water Fee Revenue Refunding Bonds (no new debt, estimated savings $750,000). Approved unanimously. - R2: Resolution to sign the Cape Fear Council of Governments’ joint letter to the Environmental Management Commission opposing Fuquay-Varina’s proposed interbasin transfer request (6 million gallons per day from the Cape Fear River). Councilmember Clinton-Quintana read contact information for public comments (Maya Holcomb at DEQ). Motion to approve passed unanimously. - RP1: Report of Council’s Appointments Committee. Chair Andrews presented appointments to multiple boards/commissions (Trinity Dunlap to Convention Center Advisory; Atiba Johnson to Downtown Steering; Michael Maurer to Sports Park; four appointments to Community Relations Advisory; Nancy Bullock to Sister Cities; removal of Laura Blair for lack of attendance; reappointments to Port/Waterway/Beach Commission; Councilmember Santaguida to Thalian Association; Councilmember Joyner reappointed to Thalian Hall Board; six appointments to Housing Affordability Advisory). Motion to approve passed unanimously. Andrews also listed current vacancies. Key Outcomes - C4 withdrawn: No funding approved for police rifle transition. - C5 approved: $1,325,175 authorized for police vehicle purchase. - C8 approved (amended): Housing Affordability Advisory Committee bylaws amended to retain homebuilders seat and add two at-large members. - PH1 approved: $75 million financing contract (new debt + refinancing) authorized. - O.1, O.2a, O.2b approved: Code amendment, street acceptance, and speed limit established. - R1 approved: $15 million stormwater refunding bonds authorized. - R2 approved: Council joins regional opposition to interbasin transfer. - RP1 approved: All appointments confirmed; vacancy list updated. - Closed session: Council entered closed session (GS 143-318.11(a)(3)) to consult with the City Attorney regarding Carson v City; no further action announced. Additional Notes - Councilmembers shared progress updates: Santaguida reflected on first 100 days; Andrews announced an open house for federal funding request ($17.5 million) to replace the downtown riverfront bulkhead at the former Coast Guard Cutter Diligent site (March 25, 5:30–7:30 PM in City Hall); Joyner highlighted FEMA reform discussions at the National League of Cities Conference; Clinton-Quintana urged an end to violence; Lyle promoted the Wilmington Tea Walk commemorative event on March 26.

The Wilmington City Council held an Agenda Briefing on Monday, March 23, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. in City Hall to review the regular scheduled agenda for the March 24, 2026 Council Meeting. Mayor Bill Saffo presided, with Councilmembers David Joyner, Salette Andrews, J.C. Lyle (arrived at 8:32 a.m.), Cassidy Santaguida, and Chakema Clinton-Quintana present. Mayor Pro-Tem Kevin Spears attended via video conference. City Clerk Penelope Spicer-Sidbury, City Attorney Meredith Everhart, and City Manager Becky Hawke were also present. The meeting adjourned at 8:41 a.m. Discussion Items - Item C4 – Resolution Authorizing Funding for WPD Transition from Shotguns to Rifles: Mayor Pro-Tem Spears expressed strong opposition, stating the item is untimely given ongoing community concerns about weapons and police. Chief Zuidema explained the department is "extremely behind the curve," citing the 1997 North Hollywood shootout where police had to borrow rifles to match criminal firepower. He noted that criminals locally and nationally often possess weapons exceeding police shotguns, and that a standardized patrol rifle platform would improve officer accuracy and safety. Currently, most cruisers carry a 12-gauge shotgun; officers may bring personal rifles but inconsistently. Councilmember Clinton-Quintana agreed timing was poor and suggested reintroducing the item in a month or two rather than letting it drop entirely. - Item C5 – Resolution Authorizing Purchase of 25 Pursuit-Rated Tahoes ($1,325,175): Councilmember Joyner requested an update on the fleet transition study timeline. Fleet Manager John Fortuin reported that a meeting with the transition team had occurred on Friday, but due to city restructuring, the timeline has been delayed. Once vehicle placement is clarified, the study can proceed. Councilmember Joyner stated he could not vote in favor until a clear timeline is provided. - Item O1 – Ordinance Amending Wilmington City Code, Chapter 1 “General Provisions”: Councilmember Santaguida noted the redline attachment did not show changes when opened. City Attorney Everhart said she would double-check and resend the corrected attachment to council. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the briefing is a preparatory session for the regular council meeting on March 24. - Item C4 faces strong opposition from Mayor Pro-Tem Spears and skepticism from Councilmember Clinton-Quintana; staff was asked to provide information on regional police rifle policies. - Item C5 lacks sufficient fleet transition timeline information, preventing Councilmember Joyner from supporting it. - Item O1 will have corrected redline documents sent to council before the regular meeting. - All other agenda items (C1, C2, C3, C6, C7, C8, PH1, O2B, R1, R2, RP1) were noted for the March 24 meeting without specific discussion.

The Wilmington Board of Adjustment held a regular public hearing on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 1:13 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 929 North Front Street, Wilmington, NC. Five members were present (including two alternates) and four were absent, including Chair Jeff Hovis; Vice-Chair Patrick Moore presided. The board considered one evidentiary hearing - a variance request for shoreline stabilization at 4230 Masonboro Loop Road - approving both the prior meeting's minutes and the variance by unanimous 5-0 votes. Note: the agenda lists the venue as Skyline Center while the minutes state City Hall, though both cite the same address. Consent Calendar - Approval of the revised minutes from the February 19, 2026 regular meeting: motion by Graham Mitchell, seconded by Alain Norman, passed 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Vice-Chair Moore opened the public hearing for the variance. No members of the public came forward to speak in favor or in opposition, and the evidentiary hearing was closed. Discussion Items 4230 Masonboro Loop Road - Variance to City Code Section 18-286 (BADV-22-326) - Brian Chambers, Assistant Planning Director, presented the applicant's request for a waiver to the conservation resource standards to allow a sheet pile sill and riprap structure for shore stabilization. - The property contains approximately 1.68 acres with a single-family home, is zoned R-15, and its upland portion lies in an AE flood zone with a regulated base flood elevation of 12 feet per the FEMA flood map. - Staff noted that a steel pile sill/shoreline stabilization structure was partially constructed under a CAMA permit but without City approval. A Stop Work Order was issued in November, and the Division of Coastal Management agreed to pause the approved permit while the applicant sought approval from the City. - A section chief with the NC Division of Coastal Management provided an email statement on January 2, 2026, acknowledging the existing erosion, the approved permit, and the appropriate construction method for the improvement. - Staff presented the four required findings for the waiver and advised that Finding 3 (buffer extension) does not apply because the structure is in the water, not on land. - Board members asked clarifying questions about erosion documentation, buffer applicability, and navigation impacts. Staff and the applicant responded that CAMA staked allowable locations to avoid navigation channel impacts. - The applicant (identified as Jerry Workman in the minutes and Jeff Workman in the transcript - a discrepancy in the record) stated that erosion at the site has been documented since 2013 and that GIS mapping shows the peninsula has significantly eroded. He said CAMA recommended a freestanding sill wall with riprap on both ends and permitted a maximum length of 56 feet; the current structure is 54 feet, with additional work remaining to be installed and modified per CAMA regulations. - Staff clarified that the variance covers the entire erosion control measure (steel pile sill, posts, and riprap), that the riprap has not yet been installed, and that modifications are needed to bring the partially built structure into full compliance, including height adjustments and gaps to allow water to flow over the sill at high tide. - During deliberations, board members noted the long-standing erosion and that CAMA issued permits in both 2013 and 2025. One member stated he generally dislikes fixed structures but considered CAMA the expert and agreed the waiver was warranted; another member clarified that the three applicable findings of fact had been met. Key Outcomes - Motion by Graham Mitchell to approve the variance request as outlined in the case summary, seconded by Jim Downey. The motion passed unanimously, 5-0, exceeding the four-fifths concurrence required to grant a variance under the board's procedures. - The board determined that three of the four required findings were met; Finding 3 (buffer extension) was not applicable because the structure is located in the water. - The meeting adjourned at 1:13 p.m.; the next regular Board of Adjustment meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2026.