Council approves special-use permit for digital billboard at 1833 S. Madison Street

Whiteville City Council approved a special‑use permit for a digital billboard at 1833 South Madison Street and separately approved a consistency statement finding the project conforms with the city's land‑use plan.

Planning staff identified the site as approximately 0.67 acres in a B‑3 highway‑serving business zone and reported that the planning board, after a public hearing, found the application met the standards listed in section 155.141 and recommended approval to council. Staff told council that the planning board concluded the proposed sign "will not endanger public health and safety," "will not substantially injure adjoining property values," and "will be in harmony with the area," and that the application must comply with local and state Department of Transportation regulations.

During the council discussion, staff confirmed the proposed sign is digital rather than static and that the industry standard now favors digital displays. Staff also said a second digital billboard could not be located within 500 feet of the proposed site. No members of the public spoke for or against the special‑use permit at the hearing.

Councilmember Clary moved to approve the planning board recommendations; the motion was seconded and carried on an affirmative voice vote. Councilmember Clary then moved, and Councilmember Cuyer seconded, approval of the required consistency statement with the 2016 City of Whiteville comprehensive land‑use plan; council approved that motion by voice vote as well.