Morgan Gilbert

The agenda for the Morehead City Planning Board meeting scheduled key business items. Discussions included a request to rezone 410 Penny Lane from Residential Multifamily (RMF) to Office and Professional (O&P) District, submitted by Flowers Development Corporation, Inc. The board also reviewed a Sketch Plan for a 23-lot Industrial Subdivision proposed at 5081 and 5091 Business Drive, submitted by The Cullipher Group, P.A., on behalf of Creek Fever II, LLC and HCC Investment Group, LLC. Furthermore, there were requests for review and approval of Alternate Landscape Plans for Sound Dental (at 4610 Bridges Street) and Quick Lane Oil Change and Tire Store (at 5535 Highway 70). Administrative items included reviewing the draft minutes from the February meeting and the January Monthly Development Report.

Key actions taken during the meeting included the acceptance of Finance Director and Tax Collection Reports, as well as the Estimated Fund Balance Report for February 2026 and Monthly Financial results for January 2026. The Council adopted two Budget Ordinance Amendments (2026-03 and 2026-04). A resolution was adopted accepting the 2025 delinquent tax lists and authorizing an advertisement. Furthermore, resolutions were adopted concerning the de-annexation of 16.67 acres and directing the Clerk to investigate a contiguous annexation petition for a parcel at 300 Bryan Street, along with setting a public hearing date for that annexation. A resolution was also adopted in appreciation of Brian Pasko upon his retirement. Financially, the Council approved the 2026/2027 Health Insurance Renewal with an 8% increase and approved the contract for the W.S. King Recreation Building project, contingent upon legal and financing approvals. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss personnel matters.

The Council adopted the Consent Agenda, which included accepting various financial reports and adopting a resolution to rescind a 1971 directive regarding water supply fluoridation. Public hearings were held for two major actions: the contiguous annexation of property at 5280 Highway 70 (for a future Express Oil Change location) and the subsequent rezoning of that same property from CH-CZ to CH district. The Council also held a public hearing and approved a conditional zoning ordinance to amend the Spooner's Cove Sketch Development Plan, proposing two alternatives for residential density and marina placement, with Alternative A being the preferred choice despite some concerns regarding traffic and ecological impact. New Business included unanimous approval of Budget Ordinance Amendments 2026-01 and 2026-02 covering various fund transfers, IT server purchases, and equipment replacements. Councilmember Taylor was reappointed to the Eastern Carolina Council. A license agreement with Carteret Community College for Big Rock Stadium use was approved. Significant discussion occurred regarding 'Project Grander,' which ultimately resulted in a unanimous motion to halt all discussion and action concerning the project, including the use of Eminent Domain or the selling of public parks indefinitely. The meeting concluded with the Council entering a brief closed session concerning contract negotiation and employee qualifications, followed by adjournment.

The Special Meeting included proceedings within a Closed Session authorized by N.C.G.S. 143-318.ll(A)(5) and (6) to discuss negotiations regarding employment contract compensation terms and to consider the qualifications, competence, performance, or appointment of a public officer or employee. Following the Closed Session, the Council formally accepted the resignation of City Manager Chris Turner, effective January 30, 2026. The Council then adopted Resolution 2026-R-08, honoring Mr. Turner's tenure and service, noting achievements such as securing over $42 Million in grant funding and receiving the Government Finance Officers Association Triple Crown Award for fiscal excellence. Finally, it was announced that Public Services Director/Assistant City Manager Daniel Williams would serve as acting City Manager until an Interim Manager is appointed.

The council meeting included adoption of a consent agenda. Public hearings were held regarding the contiguous annexation of the property at 5280 Highway 70 and the subsequent rezoning of that property from Highway Commercial Conditional Zoning to Highway Commercial Conventional Zoning. The annexation will accommodate the future site of an Express Oil Change, pending state permits. The rezoning discussion involved neighbor concerns about traffic impact, with an intersection study showing no recommended changes at the intersection of Brian and 24th Streets currently. A separate public hearing concerned the adoption of Ordinance 2026-003 to amend the sketch plan for the Spooners Creek Plan Development District at 300 Brian Street, presenting two alternatives (A preferred) which included revising residential density and possibly adding a governmental recreation use for a nature park contingent on grant funding.