Cape Connection

Board of Commissioners Completes Productive Budget Planning Session

The Board of Commissioners met on February 23 to formally begin the FY 24-25 budget process, participating in a 5-hour planning session to establish priorities for next year and beyond, and to provide helpful direction to Town staff.

The Board reviewed the current year (FY 23-24) budget status and a preliminary budget projection for next year (FY 24-25). The Board expressed its desire to maintain the Town's overall strong financial position, the need for prudent capital replacement and improvement planning, promoting public safety, and ensuring quality service provision and helpful customer service. Specific issues and initiatives discussed included Police Department staffing and equipment needs, proper street maintenance, desired park improvements, the completion of planned storm water improvements and the final segment of the Cape Carteret Trail, and the potential future construction of a new Town Hall / Police Station building on Town-owned property on NC 24, among others.

Town staff will incorporate the Board's collective feedback into the FY 24-25 Recommended Budget that will be presented to the Board on May 13, and the Board will complete a thorough review during May and June before formally adopting the FY 24-25 budget in June.

Planning Board to Continue Review of Proposed Town Center Zoning District

The Planning Board began its review of the proposed new "Town Center" zoning district at its February 20 meeting. Overall, the Planning Board expressed preliminary support for the proposed new zoning district, and will continue its detailed review at its March 19 meeting .

The proposed new zoning district includes the area bounded by NC 58, Taylor Notion Road, and NC 24 that is located south of the Ardan Oaks subdivision and north of the main commercial areas on NC 24. The proposed new zoning district would allow all currently permitted commercial and residential uses in this area, but would specifically incentivize new mixed-use development, multi-family housing, and village-style single family residential development to hopefully create a special and distinct sense of place in the "Town Center'. The vision for this area is modeled after other similar coastal developments, and is intended to promote a mix of residential and commercial uses, buildings closer to the street, public gathering spaces, and a "village" or "downtown" feel.

The Planning Board is expected to make a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners sometime this spring. The Board of Commissioners is expected to formally consider adoption of the new zoning district later this spring or summer.

To learn more about the proposed new zoning district, click HERE.

Board Approves Purchase of Mini-Excavator to Enhance Public Works Department Capabilities

The Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of a new mini-excavator and associated attachments at its February 12 meeting, and this new equipment will significantly enhance the Public Works Department's capabilities to maintain Town infrastructure and complete beneficial improvements in the future. The new equipment was purchased for approximately $78,000 with funds derived from the Federal American Rescue Plan Act, and the Town expects to take delivery of the new equipment later in March.

The new equipment will be utilized to complete planned storm water improvements in various locations in the Town, and will also enable Public Works staff to more efficiently and effectively maintain Town ditches, complete park improvements, and complete right of way mowing activities.

Work Begins on Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan

Work on a new regional bicycle and pedestrian plan for western Carteret County is underway, and will outline desired future improvements in the Town of Cape Carteret and nearby towns.

The Town is partnering with the nearby towns of Cedar Point, Peletier, and Bogue, the Down East Rural Planning Organization, and NCDOT to develop the plan, which is expected to be complete in late 2024. The plan will identify desired new multi-use paths, sidewalks, roadway crossings, and other amenities, and will be utilized by the Town and others to pursue grant funding and NCDOT construction funding in the future.

The Board of Commissioners will appoint 2 community members to the steering committee for this planning effort, and interested individuals should EMAIL the Town Manager no later than Monday, March 11. The first steering committee meeting is scheduled for March 27.

Small Townhome Development Planned on Taylor Notion Road

The Town is currently working with an applicant for a small townhome development planned on Taylor Notion Road near the Star Hill Golf Course entrance, and the Planning Board and Board of Commissioners will review formal development plans this spring.

The proposed project includes 12 townhome units on a 2.3 acre parcel that is zoned R-10M, which allows townhome developments by right if various specified requirements are met. The Town limits townhome developments to a maximum of 4 connected units per building, requires individual parking areas for each unit, limits density to 5.5 units per acre, and enforces storm water management requirements. Town staff, the Planning Board, and the Board of Commissioners will be working to ensure that the proposed project complies with all applicable requirements.

Town Clerk Earns Certified Municipal Clerk Designation

Town Clerk Heather Leffingwell recently received the Certified Municipal Clerk designation from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, reflecting her professionalism and commitment to the Town of Cape Carteret. The Certified Municipal Clerk designation is the highest recognition for municipal clerks, and reflects her significant investment in training and continuing education in recent years. The Town is proud of her accomplishment, and is fortunate to have her serving the people of Cape Carteret!

Town Names New Finance Director

Barbara Owens was formally appointed as the Town's Finance Director on January 30 after having served in an interim role since last July. She has served the people of Cape Carteret for approximately three years, previously assisting our customers with various Town service issues and permit applications. The Town is fortunate to have her in this new role, and looks forward to continued excellent service!

Town Staff Addressing Significant Code Enforcement Issues

Town Planner Julie Shambaugh and Police Chief Brian Silva have been working collaboratively to address significant code enforcement issues in the Town in recent months, in an effort to clean up unsightly properties and improve neighborhood aesthetics. Their efforts are paying off, with significant improvement at long-time offending properties throughout the Town.

The Town's approach first seeks voluntary cooperation from offending property owners, and our goal is always to assist the property owner in cleaning up the property to resolve the concerns themselves. In many cases, this approach yields the desired result, and is our preferred outcome. If the issues persist, however, the Town's enforcement efforts will progress to a more formal stage and will be vigorously pursued if the offender does not resolve the concerns.

Ultimately, the Town's goal is to keep our neighborhoods clean and aesthetically pleasing, and we greatly appreciate everyone's efforts to keep our community looking good!

Board to Consider Grant Application for New Multi-Use Path Segment

The Board of Commissioners is scheduled to consider a potential Federal grant application for the construction of a new multi-use path segment along NC 24 at its March 11 meeting.

If ultimately approved for grant funding, the proposed multi-use path would connect the Bayshore Park / Country Club Point area with Old Cape Carteret via a new path along the south side of NC 24. The new ~ 1 mile path would enhance the connectivity of these two residential areas, and promote safer access for bicyclists and pedestrians (and perhaps golf carts also) to the main commercial area in the center of Cape Carteret.

The total project cost is estimated at approximately $800,000 or more, and grant funds, if awarded, would cover 80% of project costs.

Board to Consider Potential Sale of Residential Lot

The Board of Commissioners is also scheduled to consider authorizing the Town Manager to offer a vacant Town parcel for sale at its March 11 meeting.

The vacant parcel is located at 100 Taylor Notion Road, at the intersection of NC 58 and Taylor Notion Road, and was acquired by the Town in 2023 to facilitate a shorter, safer route for the final segment of the Cape Carteret Trail. The trail route will only utilize a relatively small strip along the southern boundary of the property, and the Board will consider selling the remaining developable portion of the property.

The portion of the remaining parcel that is developable is approximately 0.70 acre. A 4 bedroom septic permit has been issued to the Town, and the parcel is zoned single-family residential and subject to Star Hill restrictions and covenants that limit the parcel to residential use.

Join MacDaddy's and the Town of Cape Carteret

for the Annual Easter Egg Hunt!

Saturday, March 23

Join us for an egg-stravagant Easter celebration at the driving range adjacent to MacDaddy's!

Bring your little ones, aged walking to 12 years, for a FREE Easter Egg Hunt featuring over 15,000 eggs, including special golden eggs with exciting cash prizes!

The hunt kicks off at 11 am sharp. As you embark on this egg-citing adventure, enjoy a delicious hot dog lunch provided by the Salvation Army of Cape Carteret, and indulge your sweet tooth with delightful treats from Cape Carteret Baptist Church (while supplies last). Don't miss the chance to visit with the Easter Bunny, engage in fun activities organized by the Girl Scouts, and make cherished memories with your family.

It's a day of joy, surprises, and community spirit – hop on over and join the fun!

Sounds by the Sound Concert Series Returns This Summer!

The Town, in partnership, with Seaside Arts Council, is pleased to announce the return of the Sounds by the Sound outdoor concert series again this summer.

Concerts will be held at Community Park (102 Dolphin Street) on the second Wednesday evening of June, July, and August. Concerts are scheduled for June 12, July 10, and August 14 beginning at 6:30 pm. Talented local music acts will perform, and a food truck will be available on-site.

Bring a lawn chair, and come on out on enjoy the performances with your friends and neighbors!

Town Still Awaiting Permits for Final Segment of Cape Carteret Trail

Design work for the final segment of the Cape Carteret Trail is complete, and the Town continues to await the issuance of necessary State permits for the approximately 1 mile segment along Taylor Notion Road and NC 58. Construction bids will be solicited as soon as permits are issued, and the Board is expected to consider a formal construction contract this spring.

Limited Number of Boat Ramp Passes Still Available

As of February 28, there are only a total of 22 boat ramp passes still available for purchase for 2024. Boat ramp passes may be purchased during normal business hours (Mon - Fri, 9 am - 5 pm) at Town Hall or by clicking HERE to visit the Town's website.

Next Vegetative Debris Collection Scheduled for April 15

The next Town-wide vegetative debris collection event will begin on Monday, April 15. Residents should place vegetative debris at the curbside between April 5 and April 14, and Public Works staff will collect the debris as soon as possible beginning on April 15.

Future vegetative debris collection events will begin on the following dates in 2024:

• June 3,
• August 12,
• October 7, and
• December 9.

Limbs should generally be limited to 8 feet in length and 6 inches in diameter. Please avoid placement directly under utility lines and large trees.

Upcoming Town Meetings

The Board of Commissioners will hold its next regular monthly meeting on Monday, March 11 at 6 pm.

The Planning Board will hold its next regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 19 at 6 pm.

All meetings are held in the Debbie E. Stanley Boardroom at Town Hall, located at 102 Dolphin Street.

Stay Informed About the Town of Cape Carteret!

The Town of Cape Carteret is committed to providing timely, concise, and relevant information to the residents, property owners, businesses, and visitors to Cape Carteret, and "Cape Connection" is a great way to stay informed about the Town's issues, activities, and initiatives.

To join our mailing list, please click HERE . 

In addition to "Cape Connection", the Town offers the following opportunities to stay informed:

• Follow us on Facebook at Town of Cape Carteret NC. Please note the "NC" on the end.

• Follow us on Instagram - townofcapecarteret .

• Follow us on X - @TownofCapeC .

• Visit the Town's webpage at www.townofcapecarteret.org .

In addition, all of our customers are always welcome to call us at 252-393-8483, visit us in person at 102 Dolphin Street, or email Town staff .

Thank you for your interest in the Town of Cape Carteret!

Did You Know?

The Town strives to provide the highest quality services at the lowest property tax rate, and the Town's current rate is 21 cents per $100 value of property. The total assessed value of the Town is approximately $458 million, and each penny on the tax rate generates approximately $47,000.