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The Currituck County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on March 17 to discuss various proposals and initiatives affecting the county. Key topics included funding for the fire department, a conservation subdivision request, and upgrades to emergency services radios.

During public comment, resident Todd Mitchell expressed concerns about the lack of resources for the fire department, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive plan to address future growth and emergency services. Mitchell shared that he has been working with the local volunteer fire departments and has come up with a proposed tax increase to support fire, EMS and public safety initiatives, suggesting a $0.03 tax increase in the first year and $0.01 for three additional years, potentially generating $70-90 million. This proposal aims to alleviate the financial burden on taxpayers and ensure the sustainability of volunteer fire departments.

Chairman Paul O’Neal stressed the importance of supporting volunteer fire departments, acknowledging the stakes for both citizens and volunteers. The board is considering adjusting the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board (FEAB) makeup to better address the county’s needs. A work session will be scheduled to further discuss these proposals.

During a quasi-judicial hearing, the board reviewed a two-lot conservation subdivision request for a 3.66-acre property on Tulls Creek Road, adjacent to the Moyock Library. The subdivision proposes two lots, one 1.23 acres and the other 0.96 acres, with residual open space dedicated to stormwater management. The development will include street trees, streetscape landscaping and individual stormwater control measures on each lot.

The property, previously part of the Currituck Reserve, has undergone several subdivisions since 1989. The proposed development aligns with the county’s Imagine 2024 Vision Plan, which designates the area for low-density growth and agricultural use. Mark Bissell with Bissell Professional Group and Kim Tate with Tate Appraisal & Consultation were called before the board to serve as expert witnesses and attest for the subdivision proposal.

Tate shared his analysis on the potential impact of new development on surrounding property values. By comparing sales and resales of homes adjacent to developments with those not adjacent, Tate found that properties near developments appreciated at a similar rate to those farther away. The study analyzed 12 sales between 2012 and 2024 and found an average appreciation rate of 10.6% and a median rate of 10.7%. This compared closely to the overall county appreciation rate of 9.49% average and 10.6% median.

A review of the Holly Ridge subdivision, which was developed near The Gables, showed an annual increase in average sales prices commensurate with the county’s overall appreciation rate. Tate shared that interviews with local real estate professionals and developers also supported the idea that well-planned development can enhance property values. Based on this analysis, Tate concluded that the proposed development will not negatively impact adjacent property values and will be in harmony with the surrounding area.

After some confusion from the board, it was confirmed that the parcel is not eligible for multi-family development. Vice Chair Selina Jarvis inquired about the drainage easement and potential issues, while also asking if the two lots would be part of a larger subdivision. Bissell confirmed that the lots would be standalone and require their own restrictive covenants.

After hearing from the witnesses and reviewing the proposal, the board unanimously approved the request.

During his report, O’Neal announced that the county is upgrading its emergency services radios, including a dedicated channel for the school system. This initiative will enable school buses to be equipped with radios, replacing cell phones. Additionally, discussions are underway to increase teacher pay, with North Carolina educators currently below the average salary in southern states. A joint resolution will be drafted to advocate for increased teacher pay and reward tenure. The chairman also clarified that there are no plans to increase taxes for the 2025 year.

The next Currituck County Board Of Commissioners meeting will be held on Monday, April 7 at 6 p.m. in the Historic Currituck Courthouse Board Room.

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