Public Meetings - Wilmington, North Carolina

The Wilmington Planning Commission met on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at 5:55 PM in the City Council Chambers. Commissioners Woodruff, Jones, and Kofer were absent and excused. The commission considered two rezoning requests and approved both, with one passing 3-1. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – February 4, 2026: Motion to approve passed 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (910 S. 8th Street): A written comment from Mr. Sunberg of 23 Forest Hills Drive was received and entered into the record. No speakers appeared in favor or in opposition. - Item 1 (4118 Market Street): No public comments were submitted or spoken. Discussion Items General Rezoning – 910 S. 8th Street (Z-3-326) Staff presented a request to rezone a .125-acre lot from R-5 (medium-density mixed residential) to UMX (Urban Mixed-Use). The site currently contains a single-family home. The applicant, Cindy Wolf, stated the intent is to combine the lot with an adjacent approved 18-unit mixed-use project for additional parking. Commissioner Paul questioned the general rezoning approach and potential loss of homeownership, while Commissioner Collier noted limited parking on site. Staff found the proposal consistent with the Create Wilmington Comprehensive Plan. The commission voted unanimously (4-0) to approve, deeming it reasonable and in the public interest. Conditional Rezoning – 4118 Market Street (CD-4-126) Staff presented a request to rezone a 1.26-acre former hotel (76 rooms) from RB (Regional Business) to MD-17 (CD) for a 76-unit studio apartment conversion. The applicant, Nicholas Silivanch, proposed 20 workforce housing units at 80% AMI for 15 years. Staff recommended denial, citing insufficient amenities and open space, and noting that the site had previously received three variances from the Board of Adjustment (density, open space, parking). The applicant argued that the units are naturally affordable (estimated rent $1,050–$1,075/month inclusive of utilities) and that similar adaptive reuses (Vivo Wilmington, River City Studio Suites) have high occupancy. Commissioners debated the number of variances, the parking ratio (68 spaces for 76 units), and the lack of an adaptive reuse code. Commissioner Collier supported approval citing immediate housing need; Commissioner Adams voted no, citing a “square peg in a round hole” regarding code compliance. Commissioner Pollock made a motion to approve with the seven conditions in the packet plus additional conditions 2–5 (sidewalk connection, street trees, streetscape landscaping, monument sign). The motion passed 3-1 (Collier yes, Adams no, Pollock yes, Chair yes). Key Outcomes - 910 S. 8th Street: Approved 4-0 for rezoning to UMX. - 4118 Market Street: Approved 3-1 for conditional rezoning to MD-17 (CD) with conditions including 20 workforce housing units, a pedestrian connection, street trees, landscaping, and monument signage. - The commission will continue internal discussions on administrative procedures and fee schedules (Commissioner Pollock). - Staff noted that City Council approved a rezoning from the February meeting.

The Wilmington City Council held its regular meeting on March 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM in City Hall, Skyline Center, with Mayor Pro-Tem Kevin Spears presiding in the absence of Mayor Saffo. Councilmembers David Joyner, Salette Andrews, J.C. Lyle, Cassidy Santaguida, and Chakema Clinton-Quintana were present. The meeting began with an invocation by Chaplain Joshua Lee and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key actions included approving a consent agenda, a controversial rezoning, reallocating $140,300 in ARPA funds, and approving $258,000 in loan forgiveness for affordable housing. The meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM after a closed session. Consent Calendar - C1. Approved the minutes of the Agenda Briefing meeting (February 16, 2026) and Regular meeting (February 17, 2026). (Passed 4-0) - C2. Adopted a resolution accepting public streets and storm drainage facilities at Spicetree Drive and Maple Avenue. (Passed 4-0) Public Comments & Testimony - Gerald Smith (city resident) complimented the council, encouraged them to serve wholeheartedly, and expressed support for Councilmember Lyle. - Dr. Jon V. Martell (MD, founder of Cape Fear Five Star Project) asserted that high-quality hospital care is critical infrastructure. He criticized Novant, which bought New Hanover Regional Medical Center five years ago, for failing to deliver on a promise of a top-10% hospital; the hospital currently has a two-star Medicare rating and a C on the Leapfrog patient safety dashboard. He urged council members to press Novant administrators for a plan to achieve a five-star hospital. Discussion Items Public Hearing – Rezoning at 5324 Wrightsville Avenue (PH1) - Staff report (Zach Smith, Associate Planner): The 0.38-acre site currently contains a single-family dwelling with an ADU and is zoned R-15. The applicant seeks rezoning to R-5 (Conditional District) to subdivide the lot and build a new single-family home with an attached ADU in the front yard. Staff argued the proposal is inconsistent with the Create Wilmington Comprehensive Plan because the new structure would not follow the predominant setback along Wrightsville Avenue. Staff recommended denial. - Applicant representation (Cindee Wolfe): The existing home (built 1954) is set back to allow garage access from Park Avenue. The applicant commits to saving large trees and positioning the new home close to the front setback, with side parking. Wolfe noted similar rezonings have occurred along the corridor and that the Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval. She argued a single-family home on a split lot will not harm the character. - Council discussion: Councilmember Andrews inquired about the new unit’s size (total 1,600 sq ft). Councilmember Santaguida asked about the predominant setback; staff stated most homes on Wrightsville Avenue are offset from the frontage. No public comments were submitted. - Outcome: Motion to approve (Andrews, seconded by Joyner) passed 5-0. Second reading waived (Clinton-Quintana, seconded by Andrews) passed 6-0. Ordinances – ARPA Fund Reallocation (O1a & O1b) - Finance Director Martha Wayne presented a performance update on the Digital Divide project, part of the Community Vitality and Resilience ARPA allocation ($4.7 million of the city’s $25.9 million total). Key results: - Steigler EdTech: 800 applicants, 34 selected, 28 graduated and secured employment; some graduates required extended stipend support. - StepUp Wilmington: 73 participants, 70 completed (95.8%), 32 secured employment (20 full-time); the program was incorporated into StepUp’s ongoing offerings. - Cape Fear Collective: provided data tracking and employer coordination. - Challenges: Market shifts, AI automation, increased competition, and difficulty securing firm hiring commitments. Partners expressed gratitude and noted the lessons learned. - Reallocation request: O1a makes a supplemental appropriation of $140,300 to reallocate funds for overages on the Salvation Army Road project and other eligible expenses. O1b adds the same amount to the Salvation Army Roadway Reimbursement Contract. - Council questions: Councilmember Lyle asked about differences among partners’ scopes. Councilmember Clinton-Quintana asked if leftover funds could go to StepUp Wilmington; staff responded that federal restrictions require alignment with the pre-December 31, 2024 scope. Councilmember Santaguida summarized the reallocation as appropriate. - Outcome: Motion to approve O1a (Santaguida, seconded by Clinton-Quintana) passed 6-0. Second reading waived (Lyle, seconded by Joyner) passed 6-0. Motion to approve O1b (Santaguida, seconded by Clinton-Quintana) passed 5-0. Resolution – Loan Forgiveness for James Walker Apartments (R1) - Rachel Schuler, Director of Housing and Neighborhood Services, presented a request from Landmark Asset Services Inc. for $258,000 in debt forgiveness to help install a fire sprinkler system during the rehabilitation of James Walker Apartments, a 37-unit senior affordable housing property built in the 1920s. - Sam Sari (Vice President, Landmark Asset Services) answered council questions: - Rent increases: one-bedroom units from $65 to $80 per month; two-bedroom units from $80 to $105. Rents had not been increased since 2023. Future increases will be limited to once per year (typical $15). - Relocation plan: residents will temporarily move to extended-stay hotels at Landmark’s expense (including moving, hotel, meal certificates). Unit turnover is expected to take no more than 30 days. Relocation is necessary due to lead-based paint and asbestos. - Resident feedback: initially not pleased with increases, but they recognize the investment ($85,000 per unit) to improve quality and self-sufficiency. - Council discussion: Councilmember Lyle asked about rent and relocation; Councilmember Spears asked about resident reaction. Staff recommended approval. - Outcome: Motion to approve (Santaguida, seconded by Lyle) passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously (4-0). - Rezoning (PH1) approved (5-0) with second reading waived (6-0). - Ordinance O1a (ARPA supplemental appropriation) approved (6-0) with second reading waived (6-0). - Resolution O1b (Salvation Army contract) approved (5-0). - Resolution R1 (Landmark loan forgiveness) approved (6-0). - Council voted unanimously to enter closed session to discuss privileged information, potential litigation, and public safety. After reconvening, no further action was reported. Meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM.

The Wilmington City Council held an Agenda Briefing on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. in City Hall to review items scheduled for the regular Council meeting on March 3, 2026. All Council members were present, including Mayor Bill Saffo, Councilmembers David Joyner, Salette Andrews, J.C. Lyle, Cassidy Santaguida, and Chakema Clinton-Quintana, and Mayor Pro-Tem Kevin Spears via video conference. City Manager Becky Hawke, City Attorney Meredith Everhart, and City Clerk Penelope Spicer-Sidbury also attended. The briefing covered a presentation on Women's History Month, the consent agenda, public hearings, and discussion items. Consent Calendar - C1: Approval of the minutes from the previous meeting. - C2: Resolution accepting public streets and storm drainage facilities on Spice Tree Drive and Maple Avenue. Discussion Items - Items O1a and O1b (Continued from February 17, 2026): Ordinance for supplemental appropriation of $140,300 to reallocate ARPA funds, and Resolution adding $140,300 in ARPA funds to the Salvation Army Roadway Reimbursement Contract. Councilmember Santaguida asked whether the partners administering the program would be present at the March 3 meeting, noting that the continuation was intended to hear from them. City Manager Hawke responded that staff has a presentation and has only heard back from one recipient as of Friday, March 2; staff will continue outreach before the meeting. Councilmember Santaguida stated that even a written response from the partners would be helpful. - Item R1: Resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Landmark Asset Services Inc. for loan forgiveness to preserve affordable housing. Councilmember Lyle asked whether a representative from Landmark would attend the March 3 meeting to answer questions. Housing and Neighborhood Services Director Rachel Schuler confirmed they were planning to come and would verify attendance. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the briefing; it served as a review and preparation for the March 3 Council meeting. - Council will proceed with the regular meeting agenda, including the continued items O1a/O1b and R1, with staff working to secure partner participation and Landmark attendance. - The meeting adjourned at 8:35 a.m.

The Board of Adjustment met on Thursday, February 19, 2026, beginning at 1:05 p.m., to consider four variance requests: one old business item and three new business items. Public comments were heard on the first and third items. Key outcomes include the denial of a variance for a drive-through restaurant at 4125 Echo Farms Boulevard, approval of a parking variance at 4118 Market Street, conditional approval of an accessory structure variance at 6312 Pigfish Lane, and approval with conditions of a tree removal/variance at 1009 S. 13th Street. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the January 15, 2026 meeting was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony 4125 Echo Farms Boulevard - Rachel Clychus (President, Echo Farms Residents Association) read an objection letter arguing the variance fails all four statutory criteria. She cited lack of physical hardship, self-created hardship, inconsistency with public safety, and incompatibility with the residential neighborhood, referencing traffic congestion, pedestrian risks, and precedent concerns. The letter was entered into the record over an objection from the applicant's attorney regarding hearsay. - Blair Dean (Vice President, Echo Farms Residents Association) presented additional objections to the revised single-variance request, arguing it represents incremental approval that obscures the full scope of anticipated code deviations. She stated the site plan already indicates encroachments not covered by today's variance and noted concerns about stormwater management and the 200-foot setback for outdoor seating. - Leslie Lucas (resident) provided testimony opposing the variance, citing traffic safety risks, cumulative development impacts, and the roundabout's inadequacy for commercial traffic. She argued the variance would alter neighborhood character and fail the legal standards. - Paul Hibbert (resident) reinforced opposition, noting the developer removed one of two drive-through restaurants but left the one requiring a variance. He also expressed traffic concerns based on his experience as a contractor. - Taylor Anderson (resident) questioned the applicant's legal standing regarding LLC registration in North Carolina. Staff and legal counsel determined the standing was proper. - William Fitzpatrick (resident) opposed the project, citing a Port City Daily article reporting 1,300 additional daily vehicle trips, which he argued would overwhelm infrastructure. 6312 Pigfish Lane - Seth Buskirk (attorney for adjacent property owners, the Hedricks) argued the variance fails all four findings of fact. He stated the hardship is self-imposed because the applicant built a large house (5,210 sq ft with 1,140 sq ft storage/garage) on the lot, leaving no room for an accessory structure behind the house. He also questioned emergency access and noted a restrictive covenant barring sheds or similar structures. Discussion Items 4125 Echo Farms Boulevard (Old Business) City Planner Zac Smith presented the variance request to City Code Section 18-205 for a drive-through facility located between the building and the right-of-way at 4125 Echo Farms Boulevard. The site is zoned Office & Institutional and is vacant. The applicant, represented by Alex Rigas (Kimley Horn) and attorney Amy Schaefer, argued that the property's three street frontages create a unique hardship and that numerous site plan revisions reduced the variance to this single issue. Board members questioned whether the fourth finding of fact (consistency with public safety) could be met. One member noted a similar previous variance was denied. The board concluded that findings of fact 1 (unnecessary hardship) and 4 were not satisfied. A motion to deny passed with all members in favor. 4118 Market Street (New Business) Zac Smith presented a variance to reduce minimum residential parking from 80 to 68 spaces for a proposed 76-unit multi-dwelling development (including 20 workforce housing units) at 4118 Market Street. The site currently has 73 spaces; restriping, ADA conversion, and green space reduced the count to 68. Applicant Nicholas Silivanch explained that the workforce housing units require half a parking space per unit, and further spaces cannot be added without violating other design requirements. After clarifying parking ratios (1.5 per non-workforce unit), the board found the four findings of fact met. A motion to approve passed 5-0. 6312 Pigfish Lane (New Business) Tucker Cherry presented a variance to Legacy City Code Sections 18-248 and 18-249 to place a detached accessory storage structure (up to 1,000 sq ft) in front of the primary dwelling on a half-acre lot. The lot has multiple easements, a waterfront preservation setback, and an access easement that constrains building area. Applicant Chris Parker argued the configuration leaves no feasible location behind the house; the structure would be placed on the west side (front yard). The applicant agreed to maintain a 30-foot setback from the west property line. After hearing opposition from the adjacent property owner's attorney, the board debated whether the hardship was self-created. A motion to approve with the condition that the accessory structure maintain a 30-foot setback from the west property line passed 4-1. 1009 S. 13th Street (New Business) Pat O'Mahony presented a variance request to City Code Section 18-316 for removal of six live oak specimen trees and increased critical root zone (CRZ) impacts for retained trees as part of Phase 1 of the Hillcrest community redevelopment. The site has over 80-year-old infrastructure and will be redeveloped to provide 550 homes (up from 256). Applicant Sam Frank (representing Wilmington Housing Authority) detailed efforts to preserve trees, noting that tree 7 was reclassified as a laurel oak (not a specimen). The city arborist confirmed that impacts above 20% CRZ seriously threaten tree survival. Board members asked about preserving specific trees (10, 28, 13) but accepted that subterranean work (utilities, footings) would prevent survival. The board found the four findings of fact satisfied. A motion to approve with city-recommended conditions (preservation plan approved by city arborist, three-year bonding for retained trees) passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - 4125 Echo Farms Boulevard (BADV-12-1225): Variance DENIED. All board members voted in favor of denial (0-0 on the motion to deny, with all ayes for denial). - 4118 Market Street (BADV-18-226): Variance APPROVED (5-0). - 6312 Pigfish Lane (BADV-19-226): Variance APPROVED with condition: the accessory structure must maintain a 30-foot setback from the west property line. Vote: 4-1. - 1009 S. 13th Street (BADV-20-226): Variance APPROVED with conditions: (1) preservation plan developed by applicant's arborist and approved by city arborist; (2) three-year bonding for retained trees to ensure survivability. Vote: unanimous (5-0).

The Wilmington City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, Skyline Center, 929 N. Front Street. Mayor Bill Saffo presided; Mayor Pro-Tem Kevin Spears and Councilmembers David Joyner, Salette Andrews, J.C. Lyle, Cassidy Santaguida, and Chakema Clinton-Quintana were present. Council accepted the city's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, approved a forensic lab interlocal agreement, awarded a bridge rehabilitation contract, continued an ARPA funding reallocation for the Salvation Army, authorized bond financing and refunding resolutions, and held a closed session. Presentations & Proclamations - Mayor Saffo read a proclamation naming February 2026 as Black History Month and presented it to Evelyn Adger, Chair of the Commission on African American History. Adger thanked the Mayor, Council, and staff, and invited everyone to the Commission's Youth Awards Banquet on Saturday, February 21 at 5 p.m.; tickets are $25 and tables are $200. She reflected on meeting Reverend Jesse Jackson in 1984 and said Black history is lived and honored every day. - Carson Porter, Executive Director of the Wilmington Hammerheads, reported on nCino Park activity. He said the park currently has 11 full-size soccer fields, one artificial turf field with a 12-to-15-year lifespan, and five lighted fields, and that approximately 1,000 kids and 500–600 vehicles were at the park that evening. He reported 165,000 unique annual visitors, five sports hosted (soccer, football, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, rugby), and an Elite Clubs National League weekend event with 6,000-plus overnight stays and over $3 million in total economic impact. Porter identified future needs including paving the gravel road and parking lot and potentially adding a gymnasium, and expressed ambition to make nCino Park a true sports campus. - Landon Vick of PBMares presented the City's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. The audit received an unmodified or clean opinion; GASB 101 caused a restatement of beginning balances. One material weakness was identified in reconciling the schedule of expenditures of federal awards with the financial statements; it was not a material error to the financial statements, and a corrective action plan has been drafted. Vick reported no audit adjustments, no uncorrected misstatements, and no other significant audit issues. Consent Calendar - Council pulled C3 (forensic lab interlocal agreement) and C6 (Front Street Bridge contract) for separate consideration. The remaining consent items – approval of the February 3, 2026 minutes; acceptance of the ACFR for the year ending June 30, 2025; authorization to apply for the North Carolina Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Financial Assistance Program grant; and award of on-call landscape architecture design and planning contracts to five firms – were approved unanimously on a motion by Councilmember Andrews, seconded by Councilmember Clinton-Quintana. - C3: The Council approved the Resolution Authorizing an Interlocal Agreement with New Hanover County for the Operation of the Forensic Lab, 7-0. Councilmember Joyner asked about the earlier lab transfer; City Attorney Meredith Everhart explained that the transfer is permanent, while the interlocal agreement covers funding responsibilities. The City will pay 40% of operating costs after staff are paid, and all lab staff are on the County payroll. The agreement renews annually unless either party withdraws. - C6: Mayor Saffo recused himself from consideration of the Front Street Bridge Rehabilitation contract because Saffo Contractors, Inc. is owned by a family member, although he stated he has no personal or financial interest in the company. The recusal motion passed unanimously, and Mayor Pro-Tem Spears presided. Project Manager Kyle Burden said the project includes a full deck replacement and a three-bar metal rail system compliant with current NCDOT standards, extending the bridge's lifespan by about 25 years. Three bids were received; after the lowest bidder withdrew, Saffo Contractors was the lowest responsive, responsible bidder at $2,449,650. The contract award passed 6-0. (Note: The transcript names Santaguida as seconder of the award motion; the minutes name Clinton-Quintana.) Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Morton was scheduled to speak about the Azalea Festival concert/musical act replacement but was unable to appear due to illness. - E.J. Hanley raised concerns about reserved parking spaces at Thalian Hall for the Mayor, Mayor Pro-Tem, and Council members. Hanley acknowledged some official occasions may justify reserved parking but said permanent 24/7 designation is not necessary, and asked Council to consider placing removable parking meter bags over the 'For Public Use' signage when the spaces are not needed for official purposes. She said this would help seniors and residents attending arts events and demonstrate thoughtful stewardship of shared public spaces. Ordinances: ARPA Supplemental Appropriation and Salvation Army Reimbursement - Senior Engineer Project Manager Kim Gordon explained that in 2024 the City and the Salvation Army of Wilmington agreed to use $1.3 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to reimburse construction of William Booth Drive. The City has already paid the full $1.3 million, but the roadway cost totaled $1,464,757.60 due to unforeseen increases. Staff proposed reallocating $140,300 in surplus ARPA funds, including remaining Digital Divide Jobs Program funds, to cover the shortfall. - Finance Director Martha Wayne said the Digital Divide program partners had difficulty filling cohorts and could not spend all funds by the deadline. Remaining ARPA funds are restricted to already obligated, still-open ARPA projects, and all ARPA funds must be expended by December 31, 2026. Councilmembers expressed concerns about transparency and the program's performance; Councilmember Spears said he was taken aback that the program was being scrapped and wanted to see the remaining funds used for employment needs if feasible. Councilmember Clinton-Quintana asked whether the $140,300 was the total left in the program; Wayne said it was the remaining funds from that particular program. Clinton-Quintana also asked for information on what the program had spent on. The City Manager offered to prepare a report for the next meeting and invite Step Up and Stiegler EdTech to participate. - Council voted unanimously to continue Ordinance O.1a and Resolution O.1b to the March 3, 2026 meeting so Council could receive that report. The motion was made by Mayor Pro-Tem Spears and seconded by Councilmember Andrews. Resolutions: Bond Financing and Refunding - Finance Director Martha Wayne presented two related resolutions. The first, R.1a, authorized an amendment to an installment financing contract in an amount not to exceed $75 million using limited obligation bonds. These bonds do not require voter approval and are not a pledge of City property taxes; they are secured by City payments and deeds of trust. Of the $75 million, $25 million is net new debt for capital projects including the parks maintenance facility, radio project, streets and sidewalk rehab, and Water Street Park improvements, and about $50 million is refunding. Expected savings are approximately $340,000 from the 2015A series and $1.4 million from the 2016 series. A public hearing will be held at the March 24, 2026 Council meeting, followed by Local Government Commission approval. Mayor Saffo asked about Water Street Park improvements; Wayne said about $1.5 million of the new debt would go toward the $3.4 million project. Wayne explained the timing is tied to project bidding and cash-flow needs. R.1a passed unanimously on a motion by Councilmember Andrews, seconded by Councilmember Santaguida. - The second resolution, R.1b, requested Local Government Commission approval for stormwater fee revenue refunding bonds not to exceed $15 million. No new debt would be issued, and the refunding is expected to save approximately $750,000. The bonds are repaid solely by stormwater fee revenues and are treated separately from the limited obligation bonds. R.1b passed unanimously on a motion by Councilmember Andrews, seconded by Councilmember Joyner. Additional Council Comments and Closed Session - Councilmembers offered brief comments: Andrews wished a happy Mardi Gras and Lunar New Year; Spears described attending the funeral of a young man killed in the community and seeing 50 young people make a faith commitment; Clinton-Quintana urged kindness and voting; Lyle recommended an op-ed about housing affordability and tree preservation; and Saffo honored New Hanover High School sports legend Sonny Jurgensen. - Council unanimously voted to enter closed session pursuant to N.C. General Statute §143-318.11(a)(3) and (a)(9) to consult with the City Attorney about a potential legal matter and to instruct staff regarding the City's position on public safety. After reconvening, the Mayor reported that Council provided instructions to staff and no other action was taken. Key Outcomes - The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report was accepted for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. - The Forensic Lab interlocal agreement with New Hanover County was approved 7-0. - The Front Street Bridge Rehabilitation contract was awarded to Saffo Contractors, Inc. for $2,449,650, approved 6-0 after Mayor Saffo's recusal. - The $140,300 ARPA supplemental appropriation and Salvation Army reimbursement were continued to the March 3, 2026 meeting for further information. - The Council authorized up to $75 million in limited obligation bond financing/refinancing and up to $15 million in stormwater fee revenue refunding bonds. - The meeting adjourned at 8:37 p.m.; the next regular Council meeting is scheduled for March 3, 2026.

The Wilmington City Council held an Agenda Briefing meeting on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall, Skyline Center, 929 North Front Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Mayor Bill Saffo presided, and the Council reviewed the agenda for the regularly scheduled Council meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Mayor Pro-Tem Kevin Spears attended via video conference; Councilmember David Joyner was absent because he was in court. No presentations or public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 8:36 a.m. Consent Calendar - C1: Approval of the minutes of the Council's regular meetings. - C2: Resolution accepting the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the year ending June 30, 2025; this item was continued from the February 3, 2026 meeting. - C3: Resolution authorizing an interlocal agreement with New Hanover County for the operation of the forensic lab. - C4: Resolution authorizing the City Manager to apply for the North Carolina Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Financial Assistance Program grant. - C5: Resolution awarding on-call contracts for professional landscaping, architectural design, and planning services. - C6: Resolution awarding a construction contract for the Front Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project to Saffo Contractors, Inc. in the amount of $2,449,650. Mayor Saffo advised the Council that he will request to be recused from this item. Other Agenda Items - R1A: Resolution authorizing an amendment to an installment financing contract in an amount not to exceed $75 million to refinance various city projects. - R1B: Resolution requesting Local Government Commission approval for the City of Wilmington Stormwater Fee Revenue Refunding Bonds and related matters. - Staff noted that several proclamations are scheduled for the February 17, 2026 regular Council meeting. Key Outcomes - The Council reviewed all items scheduled for the February 17, 2026 Council meeting. - Mayor Saffo announced his intent to be recused from the Front Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project contract item. - No votes were taken during the agenda briefing; it served as a review session in preparation for the regular Council meeting. - The meeting adjourned at 8:36 a.m.

The Wilmington Historic Preservation Commission met on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, Skyline Center, to consider three agenda items: approval of minutes, two evidentiary hearings for property alterations, and a local landmark designation. All votes were unanimous (7-0). Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – January 8, 2026: The commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting with a motion passed 7-0. No changes or discussion were noted. Evidentiary Hearings Item 1: 409 North 15th Street – New Side Elevation Portico - Applicant: Ben Riggle, Historic Preservation Manager, presented the request to construct a wood-frame gable portico over a side entrance previously approved in 2024. The property is a contributing Cape Cod style dwelling (c. 1931) in the Carolina Heights Historic District. Staff recommended three conditions (e.g., portico to match front entrance style, compliance with code). No public testimony. The commission approved unanimously 7-0 with conditions. Item 2: 708 Market Street – Rear Addition and New Carriage House - Applicant/Property Owner: Jack Calderon, 708 Market Street, presented plans for a rear addition and a four-bay carriage house (similar to a 2021 approval that was never executed). The Gilcrest House (c. 1894) is a Queen Anne dwelling in the Wilmington Historic District. Key discussion points included: - Removal of a 14-inch gum tree (protected if 15 inches, but applicant agreed to replace with a native tree of appropriate size, to be coordinated with staff). - Modification to eliminate a second-floor Juliet balcony on the west exposure, replacing it with solid siding. - Fencing: applicant agreed to use wrought iron instead of chain link; a six-foot gate on the South 7th Street frontage was debated (front yard fences typically limited to 4 feet). The gate will be set back 15–20 feet and taper from 6 to 4.5 feet; applicant agreed to 4 feet if required. - Parking: eight spaces provided (four in garage, four on gravel), meeting code requirements for a four-unit condominium. - Trash: residents will bring individual city bins to the street; no communal dumpster planned. - Public Testimony: - Jenna Alt Holcomb (17 South 7th Street, adjacent neighbor) spoke in favor of improvements but raised concerns about parking strain on South 7th Street (narrow street, existing on-street parking issues), the single 12-foot driveway causing trash truck maneuverability problems, and uncertainty about grading/fencing plans. She requested clarity on the South 7th Street frontage plan before approval. - Eileen Ashton (14 & 16 South 7th Street) supported parking concerns, noting difficulty finding street parking. - Commission Deliberation: Concerns focused on tree replacement, fence material (no new chain link), gate height, and the Juliet balcony removal. The applicant expressed willingness to cooperate. - Motion: Approved 7-0 with conditions 1–9 from staff report, plus condition 10 (solid siding wall on west exposure in lieu of balcony) and condition 11 (replace gum tree per staff coordination). Other Business Item 3: Mary Etta Williams House Local Landmark Designation – 709 North 8th Street - Staff: Alden Finholm, Preservation Planner I, presented the application for local landmark designation. The 1941 bungalow (contributing to the National Register Wilmington Historic District) has been owned by the same African American family since 1885. It is associated with educator Sadie Williams Joseph, who taught at the Rosenwald-funded Kane Tuck School. The current owner, Tammy Graham (granddaughter), has continued the family’s educational legacy. Staff noted the property’s significance for post-emancipation landownership and resilience through the 1898 Wilmington Massacre and Jim Crow era. - Commission Question: Commissioner noted the roof has been replaced (modern striated metal vs. original 5V tin) and requested that the designation not claim the roof as historic. Staff agreed to note this in the record. - Applicant Testimony: Tammy Graham (709 North 8th Street) spoke emotionally about discovering the property’s history, including family oral accounts of the 1898 riot. She expressed gratitude for the designation. - Public Testimony: None additional beyond the applicant. - Commission Deliberation: Applauded the thorough research and recognized the property’s significance. No opposition. - Motion: Approved 7-0 with conditions (property becomes subject to design review by the HPC for any exterior changes). Key Outcomes - All three agenda items passed unanimously (7-0). - Item 1 (409 N 15th St): Approved with staff conditions for portico construction. - Item 2 (708 Market St): Approved with 11 conditions, including tree replacement, solid wall instead of balcony, and use of wrought iron (not chain link) for new fencing. The gate height will be resolved per zoning requirements (likely 4 feet on the 7th Street frontage). Parking and trash arrangements are per code and applicant’s plan. - Item 3 (709 N 8th St): Local landmark designation approved, making future exterior changes subject to HPC review. The property’s roof replacement will be noted as non-historic. - No items from commission or staff were raised. - Meeting adjourned after unanimous vote.

The Wilmington City Council held a special budget work session on February 6, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 12:27 PM at the Skyline Center. The session focused on three main topics: an update on agency funding, a strategy discussion for the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), and a follow-up on adopting a living-wage pay philosophy based on 60% of Area Median Income (AMI). No formal votes were taken; the session was intended to provide direction to staff for the FY27 budget. Agency Funding Update - Rachel Schuler, Housing & Neighborhood Services Director, presented a proposal to rebrand the Human Services Grant Program as the "Community Investment Program." - The current program provides competitive grants to nonprofits, with awards averaging $20,000 annually. FY26 funding totaled $720,647 (all general funds, with about $130,000 from Community Development Block Grants). - Proposed changes include: establishing an aggregate program budget in the FY27 budget, developing Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for multi-year funding (up to 5 years), and having the Community Relations Advisory Committee (C-RAC) review and recommend awards to Council. - Staff argued the new approach would better align with the City’s Strategic Plan, the Greater Downtown Plan, and community feedback, while also providing nonprofits with more stability. - Councilmembers expressed support for the concept and asked about timing, impacts on nonprofits, and alignment with economic development grants. Staff will proceed with the proposal. Capital Improvement Program Strategy Discussion - Heather Padgett, Assistant Budget Director, reviewed the current CIP, which is a 5-year plan funded partly by dedicated tax rates (currently 1.5 cents per $100 assessed value, reduced by revaluation). - Projects were categorized as "non-negotiable" (critical bridges, bulkheads) and "negotiable" (important but more flexible). - Non-negotiable funding shortfall: $23 million (including Pine Grove Bridge replacement $17.9M gap, CFCC Bulkhead $879K, Front Street Bridge $693K, Water Street Bulkhead repair $4.2M, etc.). - Negotiable projects shortfall: $30.3 million (including Independence Screen Wall $371K, Bradley Creek Kayak Launch $102K, Water Street Park $1.2M, Lions Bridge $1.1M, Pine Grove North $11.9M, Pine Grove South $14.0M, Wrightsville Ave Sidewalks $512K, Towles Road Emergency Access $1.1M). - Total combined shortfall ranges from $51.4 million to $63.3 million depending on grant awards and surplus allocation. - Funding strategies discussed: (1) Use existing debt for non-negotiable projects with no tax increase (but delays); (2) Delay or eliminate negotiable projects; (3) Increase tax rate to close the gap. - Staff recommended a tax rate increase of 0.61 cents (equivalent to $27.18/year or $2.26/month on a median home valued at $445,600). This assumes securing the EDA grant for Water Street Bulkhead and reserving surplus funds for contingencies. - Councilmembers asked about project timelines (2-5 years for completion), the status of 2014 and 2016 bond projects, and community engagement. Staff announced a new monthly project dashboard will be live by July 1, 2026. Pay Philosophy Follow-up: Living Wage at 60% AMI - City Manager Becky Hawke and Human Resources Director Clayton Roberts presented a follow-up to the November work session on adopting a living wage defined as 60% of Area Median Income (AMI) – $45,531 per year for full-time employees. - Current situation: 13% of full-time employees (138 people) earn below 60% AMI; 51% earn below 80% AMI. Positions affected include public works operators, grounds technicians, housekeepers, and administrative staff. - Proposed changes: Raise minimum pay to $45,531, rebase all pay grades from that floor, and cap individual increases at $15,000 to focus raises on lower-paid employees. Remove N1, N2, and E3 grades. - Impact: 100% of employees would earn at least 60% AMI (up from 85%). 74% would earn 80% AMI (up from 47%). First responders would see an average 19.3% increase. Police officer starting pay would rise to $62,593; firefighter to $58,036. - Total cost to implement: $17.3 million across all funds, with a $14.6 million impact on the general fund. This could require a worst-case tax rate increase of 4.1 cents ($183/year or $15/month on median home). Staff emphasized this would be the worst case and they are working to reduce the number through vacancy review and organizational restructuring. - Staff recommended full implementation in FY27 to avoid a tax increase two years in a row and to achieve market competitiveness immediately. A phased approach (2.1 cents in FY27 and 2.0 cents in FY28) was presented as an alternative. - Councilmembers expressed support for the philosophy and asked about retention, vacancy rates, and the value of benefits. Staff will continue refining the cost and return with a firm tax rate adjustment at the March work session. Key Outcomes - Agency Funding: Council signaled support for the new Community Investment Program approach; staff will include an aggregate budget in the Manager’s Recommended Budget and develop RFPs aligned with strategic priorities. - CIP Strategy: Council discussed but took no formal action; staff will bring a refined recommendation to the March work session. The preferred funding scenario appears to be the 0.61-cent tax increase with EDA grant assumption and surplus reserve. - Pay Philosophy: Council expressed general support for adopting a living wage at 60% AMI. Staff will continue evaluating vacancies and revenue growth to reduce the general fund impact and will present a specific tax rate proposal at the March work session. - Next meeting: March 2026, with additional budget topics including paving, transit, and further refinement of living wage implementation.

The Wilmington Planning Commission met on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at approximately 6:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers, Skyline Center, 929 North Front Street, Wilmington, NC. The commission reviewed draft minutes, held one public hearing on a conditional district rezoning, and discussed process-improvement topics raised by a joint subcommittee with City Council. The meeting adjourned after the commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the rezoning. Approval of Minutes - The agenda listed approval of minutes from December 1, 2025, but the chair referred to the minutes as being from December 3, 2025; no full draft minutes were provided in the source materials. - Planning staff explained the new summarized minutes format and said detailed narrative was being removed to avoid unconscious bias, noting that videos remain the full public record. - Commissioner Pollock objected, saying the outline did not meet his standard for an accurate memorial of the meeting. - The motion to approve the minutes passed 4-1; Commissioner Pollock was the apparent opposing vote based on his comments. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke either in favor of or in opposition to the rezoning during the public hearing. Discussion Items Conditional District Rezoning - 5324 Wrightsville Avenue - Staff planner Zac Smith presented the request for the 0.386-acre property at 5324 Wrightsville Avenue (Parcel ID R06205-004-000) to rezone from R-15 moderate-density single-dwelling district to R-5 medium-density mixed residential conditional district for residential development. - The applicant proposed subdividing the existing lot into two conforming R-5 lots and constructing a new single-family home with an attached accessory dwelling unit on the Wrightsville Avenue frontage, while retaining the existing 1954 home and its attached garage/accessory dwelling. - Staff recommended denial, stating the proposed new structure would be inconsistent with the predominant setback along the block face and would reverse the corridor's pattern of placing new development behind existing structures. Staff also noted potential critical root zone impacts on trees. - Applicant representative Cindy Wolf argued the project was compatible infill, said the new structure would be set back more than 33 feet, and stated the plan would preserve significant trees such as the Darlington oak and longleaf pine. She also argued the project would add housing at a time of housing shortages and affordability concerns. - Commissioners discussed that by-right redevelopment under the existing R-15 zoning could allow a house 20 feet from the street and removal of trees, and that staff's concerns were primarily about site design and development pattern rather than building design. - Commissioners Adams, Pollock, and Cofer voiced support for the request, citing gentle density, compatibility with the Seagate small-area plan, and the existing eclectic character of the corridor. - Commissioner Adams moved to approve the rezoning, citing consistency with the Create Wilmington Comprehensive Plan and Wrightsville Avenue 2030. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Cofer and passed unanimously, 5-0. Other Business - Items from Commission and Staff - Commissioner Pollock reported on the subcommittee meeting with City Council, covering process improvements, transparency, development fees, traffic study thresholds, affordable housing, review of the county's 2050 draft plan, and a possible joint retreat with the county planning commission. - The chair identified three process-improvement priorities: restoring a public development activity map/ProTrack on the city website, streamlining conditional district rezoning amendments so applicants do not have to restart for similar changes, and shortening overall applicant processing times, citing one application that had been in the queue for over a year. - Commissioner Pollock proposed that the subgroup further study the development process and return with recommendations. - Staff noted that City Council approved the December text amendment reducing lot area for duplexes in R-3 districts when certain building design elements are met. - Staff also reported that City Council adopted a resolution withdrawing support for the Independence Boulevard extension based on the draft environmental impact statement, and asked for alternatives to improve north-south connectivity with less harm to existing neighborhoods. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved 4-1. - Conditional district rezoning for 5324 Wrightsville Avenue recommended for approval to City Council by a 5-0 vote. - The commission directed the process subgroup to examine ways to streamline development applications and return with recommendations. - Staff will keep the commission updated on council actions and planning process improvements.