Assistant Planning Director Jennie Turner presented the staff report, noting that Steve Hedrick had previously identified inconsistencies in the language regarding community meetings within the Unified Development Ordinance. He brought these concerns to the Planning Board’s attention at an earlier meeting. During her presentation, Ms. Turner walked the board through a slide presentation outlining the proposed changes and highlighted the review standards for text amendments. She concluded by stating that staff recommends approval of the request.
Chairman Bass opened the floor for questions from the board. Mr. Hedrick inquired about the specific timing of community meetings within the process. In response, Ms. Turner explained that pre-application meetings with staff occur first, followed by the community meeting, and finally, submission of the formal application. Chairman Bass requested clarification from staff on whether school capacity is assessed based on the district of the proposed major subdivision or the county as a whole. Ms. Turner responded that elementary school capacity is evaluated within the specific district, while high school capacity is considered on a countywide basis. Ms. Krause asked when the evidentiary hearing notifications are sent and to whom they are addressed. Mr. Turner explained that the applicant initially sends the notices with the community meeting notification. A second round of notices is then sent by staff as part of the Board of Commissioners' public hearing process. These notifications are distributed to all adjacent property owners within 500 feet of the subject property. Mr. Hedrick asked where local notices are published. Ms. Turner responded that they are primarily published in The Coastland Times, and occasionally in The Daily Advance.
There were no citizens present to speak. Chairman Bass opened the floor for a motion.
Vice Chairman Owens moved to approve PB 25-03 Currituck County Text Amendment because the request is in conformance with the Unified Development Ordinance and clarifies community meeting requirements. The request is not in conflict with the Imagine Currituck 2040 Vision Plan.
Mr. Hedrick seconded the motion, and the motion carried unanimously with a 6-0 vote.