Kay Nickens

The meeting agenda included the swearing in of a new Planning Board Member and a public comment period. Key discussions focused on Planning and Zoning E-Module Learning, specifically 'Local Land Use Planning in North Carolina.' A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to Zoning Text Review of Chapter 156: Land Use, covering General Provisions (Subsections 156.001 - 156.012) and District Regulations (Subsections 156.025 -- 156.040). The Board reviewed and discussed numerous definitions within Section 156.002, such as 'redevelopment,' 'adult cabaret,' 'eating establishment,' and terms related to setbacks, open space, and impervious surfaces, requesting staff to research and bring back revisions. Staff also provided updates on Town Council meetings concerning resolutions on floodwater pumping and ordinances related to nuisances, stormwater discharge, and building features exempt from setbacks.

The Town Council meeting agenda included consideration of the Consent Agenda, which comprised the minutes from the February 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, the proposed 2026-2027 budget for the Government & Education Access Channel, and Budget Amendment #7. Special presentations were scheduled from the League of Women Voters and the Outer Banks Association of Realtors. Old Business included discussion and consideration regarding the appointment of an individual to serve on the Planning Board and the potential purchase of a Fire Truck. Legislative Public Hearings focused on two ordinances: Ordinance 26-01 amending Chapter 91 regarding water discharge nuisances and Ordinance 26-02 amending the Zoning Ordinance concerning stormwater discharge. Council ultimately adopted both Ordinance 26-01 and 26-02. A subsequent public hearing addressed Ordinance 26-03, which allows outdoor showers in the rear setback, and Ordinance 26-04, which clarifies lot coverage definitions, particularly concerning artificial turf and pool water exclusion. During Old Business, the Council appointed Frank Douglas to the Board of Adjustment to fill an unexpired term. Departmental updates were provided by staff, and the Finance Administrator presented the December FY 2026 financials.

The Planning Board meeting addressed several key items. Discussions during Zoning Text Review focused on amendments to Chapter 156, specifically regarding the extension allowance for outdoor shower enclosures into rear yard setbacks and clarifying definitions related to lot coverage, particularly concerning alternative ground covers like artificial turf and the associated property owner maintenance agreements. The Board also discussed beginning a comprehensive review of the zoning ordinance starting in January 2026 and established a consensus to commence Planning and Zoning E-Module Learning during future meetings. Staff updates covered the status of various projects, including the Theresa Court bid review, retaining wall work at Plover Drive, the near completion of the shoreline stabilization project, and submitting a joint grant application for intersection improvements with the Town of Southern Shores. Updates were also provided on the status of the westside trail utility relocation funding decision and the review of the floodwater discharge pumping plan.

This document provides a progress report for the Town of Duck's strategic goals for fiscal year 2025-2026, aligning with its long-term 2032 Vision. The report details ongoing initiatives and achievements across six unifying principles: Duck and Our Village, Enhanced Movability, Environmental Stewardship, Active, Engaged Community, Vibrant, Thriving Business Community, and Responsive and Responsible Leadership. It outlines efforts in areas such as facility maintenance, infrastructure improvements, community engagement, and fiscal responsibility.

The agenda includes the swearing-in of Town Council Members and the election of Town Council Officers, specifically the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore. The council will discuss and consider budget amendments, including recognizing donated funds to the Police Department for additional cameras and covering contracted services for environmental protection. Special presentations are scheduled, including employee recognition, honoring Don Kingston for his service to the Town, a presentation by the Dare County Board of Commissioners Chairman, and a presentation by the Duck Community and Business Alliance. The council will also discuss appointing an individual to serve on the Planning Board and consider the appointment of council members to various committees. Additionally, the agenda includes discussions on the 2026 Council Meeting Date Schedule and the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget Calendar.