Nags Head commissioners reauthorize $400,000 for dune-management cost-share program

Mayor Cahoon and the Nags Head Board of Commissioners approved a $400,000 allocation to continue the dune-management cost-share program for the 2025–26 sand-relocation season.

Planning and Development Director Kelly told the board the program allows oceanfront property owners to receive up to $3,500 every three years for sand relocation and up to $1,000 for dune stabilization work. Kelly said the program has been successful and urged the board to reauthorize funding, saying, “I would request the $400,000 again for this season, if you're inclined to do that.”

Commissioner Sears moved to continue the program and place $400,000 into it; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The board also confirmed that an Outer Banks Beaches allocation — described as not to exceed $15,000 — is included within that total and has not been recently drawn, according to Kelly.

Why it matters: The program reimburses private property owners for sand relocation and stabilization projects and is intended to reduce damage to structures and help the town manage beach access and environmental resources. Kelly noted the town had allocated $210,000 for the most recent season and reimbursed about $186,000 to applicants who provided documentation.

What’s next: Staff will administer the program for the coming season and continue outreach to property owners to increase participation and ensure eligible owners know how to apply. The board did not record a roll-call vote in the transcript; approval was by voice.

Speakers quoted or relied on in this story are drawn from meeting remarks by Kelly and the motion recorded by Commissioner Sears.