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Board expands planning commission to eight members after public hearing
Summary
Following redistricting, the Planning Commission asked the Board to expand membership to eight (five district reps, two at-large, one board rep). The Board approved the change unanimously after a public hearing and a Planning Commission recommendation.
The Southampton County Board of Supervisors voted May 27 to change the composition of the county Planning Commission from seven to eight members following a public hearing and a formal recommendation from the Planning Commission.
The Planning Commission asked the board to adopt an eight‑member structure consisting of one appointee from each of the five election districts, one board-appointed representative and two at-large appointments. Frank Urquhart, speaking for the Planning Commission, said the change preserves district representation while adding flexibility to appoint an at‑large member to fill geographic gaps or represent underserved areas.
Why it matters: the planning commission reviews land-use applications, comprehensive-plan amendments and ordinances that guide county growth. Membership and geographic balance shape the commission's local knowledge and the board's access to citizen expertise.
The motion to accept the Planning Commission recommendation passed without recorded opposition. Board members praised the outgoing commissioners and noted the change was intended to preserve steady citizen input during the county's redistricting transition.
Ending: staff will bring appointment procedures and candidate solicitation materials to the board for the next meeting so supervisors can fill the new at-large seat and any vacancies.
