Commission urges supervisors to keep additional at‑large seat after redistricting reduces districts

The Southampton County Planning Commission unanimously asked the Board of Supervisors to preserve an additional at‑large planning‑commission seat after county redistricting reduced election districts from seven to five.

Mr. Randolph, staff with the Department of Community Development, told commissioners the board is considering a draft ordinance that would change the planning commission’s composition to seven members: one appointee from each of five election districts, one liaison from the governing body, and one at‑large member. The draft ordinance is scheduled for a Board of Supervisors public hearing on May 27, 2025.

Commissioners discussed the change at length and expressed concern that reducing the number of at‑large seats would limit geographic and experiential representation. Dr. Edwards and other commissioners noted that the state‑mandated redistricting and shifts in population led to the board’s proposal. Commissioners emphasized localities such as Druryville, Capron, Newsom’s and Boykins as areas that could benefit from at‑large representation.

A motion was made and seconded to recommend that the Board of Supervisors add an additional at‑large seat—keeping the planning commission at eight members rather than reducing to seven—to preserve diversity of voices from parts of the county not directly represented by a single election district. The commission voted unanimously to forward the recommendation to the board and encouraged commissioners to attend the board’s public hearing if possible.

Mr. Randolph noted the state code allows planning commissions of between five and 15 members and that the board could choose a different composition if it wishes; the planning commission’s action is a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors.

The board will hold a public hearing on the draft ordinance at its May 27 meeting, where it may adopt, amend or reject the proposed changes.