Matthews planning commission schedules workshop on South Bay Haven; staff and residents outline modest access plan

The Matthews County Planning Commission on Wednesday voted unanimously to hold a public workshop on Oct. 14 to review a plan for South Bay Haven, a county-owned property that residents and staff say needs clearer management and limited public access. The session will run 5:30–6:45 p.m., followed by the commission’s regular meeting.

Commissioners and staff described the proposal as a modest landing rather than a developed park and said the plan focuses on controlled boat and kayak access, safety and minimal infrastructure. Commissioner Meeks said parks staff proposed renaming the site “South Bay Haven Landing,” installing a designated kayak launch and providing up to 10 gravel parking spaces including one accessible space.

The plan presented to the commission included gates and signage listing restrictions (hours, no alcohol, pets on leash), limited parking with a designated drop‑off area, picnic tables and porta‑potties or an ADA two‑stall restroom if grant funding allows, natural screening along the property’s north and south boundaries and removal of existing pilings judged unsafe for swimmers. Parks staff recommended VDOT contact to relocate the state‑maintained road end and add that right‑of‑way to the parcel to improve access.

“When we met with the public it was contentious in nature,” a staff member who attended the parks work session told the commission, adding that parks and recreation intends to pursue grants for a handicap‑accessible kayak launch and replacement pier. “They did give us an update that that’s what they would be planning on doing.”

Several commissioners said the county should avoid committing large operating funds without clear long‑term plans. Commissioner Bean said the county’s limited funds for current parks and facilities make direct county investment uncertain and suggested exploring alternatives such as a deed to a land conservancy. A speaker identified as Treasurer, who said he is treasurer of the Matthews Land Conservancy, said the conservancy might accept a deed and pursue grant fundraising but would prefer a reversion clause so the property returns to the county if the conservancy cannot maintain it.

Commissioners discussed the property’s origin: a staff member said FEMA provided the parcel and later turned it over to the county, and warned that those procurement conditions may constrain how the county disposes of the land.

The commission directed staff to hold the Oct. 14 workshop and to meet with adjacent homeowners before final recommendations are prepared for the county board. The motion to set the workshop carried on a unanimous roll call.

The presentation included a draft map showing the county parcel, proposed fence and screening, turnaround and parking; staff cautioned the pier size and other design details remain tentative, pending grant and permitting work. Wetland permits and other environmental approvals were listed as steps the county will pursue if the project advances.

The commission agreed the workshop will be used to gather homeowner concerns, clarify design and funding options, and produce recommendations for the county board rather than to finalize a capital commitment.

Looking ahead, staff said they will continue grant research for an accessible launch and dock replacement; commissioners asked that cost estimates, proposed maintenance responsibilities and any constraints tied to the FEMA transfer be included in materials for the workshop.