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New Bern board issues special-use permit to Firefly Cafe after debate over appraisal evidence
Summary
After questioning whether county tax records suffice in place of a site-specific appraisal, the City of New Bern Board of Adjustment voted 5–0 Oct. 23 to issue special-use permit SUP003143-2025 to Firefly Cafe at 901 B Pollock Street, following testimony from the applicant and the property owner and a staff recommendation.
The City of New Bern Board of Adjustment voted unanimously Oct. 23 to issue a special-use permit to Firefly Cafe, allowing outdoor dining and beverage consumption at 901 B Pollock Street.
The vote followed an extended discussion over whether county tax-card records and a written staff statement could substitute for a site- and use-specific appraisal to meet the ordinance requirement that a proposed use not substantially injure the value of adjoining properties. Board counsel advised members that North Carolina statutory and case law require "competent evidence" on value and that lay testimony generally is not sufficient.
Staff presentation and applicant testimony framed the dispute. Assistant director of development services…
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