Sunset Beach council roundup: Catchment 7 drainage, DOT stop sign request, HB 765 opposition and public concerns

The Town of Sunset Beach council on Aug. 4 approved several contracts and resolutions in addition to the Canal Maintenance District resolution and Main Street parking award.

Catchment 7 drainage improvements: The council awarded the Catchment 7 drainage contract to Coastal Contracting Incorporated for $417,130.56. Staff noted Catchment 7 has been on the town’s 10-year stormwater plan and explained sequencing to avoid construction conflicts with other projects. The council approved a related budget amendment to appropriate general fund balance for the work.

Traffic safety: Council approved a resolution asking the North Carolina Department of Transportation to consider installing a three-way stop at West Main Street and 40th Street and to provide an encroachment agreement if DOT approves the sign installation.

State legislation: The council adopted a resolution opposing House Bill 765 and related measures that council members said would limit local planning and zoning authority, remove extraterritorial jurisdiction and impose unrealistic timelines for review. A council member clarified the resolution is intended to preserve municipal authority to manage land use in consultation with communities.

Public comment highlights: Residents thanked staff and police for responsiveness to concerns in the Mudd District, urged the council to consider empathetic responses to homelessness, asked whether Catchment 7 required permits from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and urged shortening the paid-parking season or reducing rates in shoulder months to ease burdens on lower-income beachgoers.

Adjournment: After completing agenda business council members moved, seconded and adjourned the meeting.