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County approves purchase of 50-acre parcel for Havelock-area park; timber reservation may delay construction
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Summary
Craven County approved buying a 50-acre parcel for $287,500 to develop a multi-use park in the Havelock area but noted a three-year timber reservation limits immediate land-disturbing work; staff will pursue grants and use the delay for master planning.
Craven County commissioners voted April 20 to authorize staff to complete a contract to buy a 50-acre parcel along Highway 101 for $287,500, intended for a new park serving the Havelock area.
Recreation director Mark Seymour said the FY26 budget included funds to identify and purchase land in the Havelock area. The planned park would include multiple athletic fields, a playground, a shelter and walking trails; the department will pursue grant funding to support construction. The board approved a motion authorizing the chairman and staff to execute the contract and take necessary actions to complete the transaction.
Commissioners asked about a timber reservation on the property. County staff explained the seller (identified as a timber company) retained a three-year timber reservation that prevents major land-disturbing activities for roughly 36 months. The county may perform limited activities such as surveying and soil testing, and staff said the reservation explains the lower purchase price and gives staff time to master-plan and seek funding; the county could buy out the timber reservation if a development prospect required earlier clearing.
The board approved the purchase by roll call and noted the price reflected negotiation and the timber reservation.
