At a time when we are watching our county and communities being ravaged by the scorched earth approach to so called growth and development, the Republican Representative Charlie Miller (HD19), in concert with his cronies Rep. Frank Iler (HD 17), Senator Bill Rabon (SD 8), and a few of the Brunswick County Commissioners; Pat Sykes, Mike Forte, and Frank Williams, has passed legislation that removes extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) from municipalities.
It began with a request by the Commissioners to terminate Southport's ability to regulate the removal, replacement, and preservation of trees (HB 1063), Southport's ability to exercise planning and development regulations (HB 1064), and to permit the de-annexation of properties within incorporated municipalities (HB 1066). Miller drafted and introduced the 3 House Bills and within weeks of being brought to the legislature, the bills were combined into HD 911 which applies to ALL Municipalities across NC removing the ETJs and allowing the de-annexation of land granting jurisdiction to the County and opening them up to unfettered development. We are witnessing how the County Commissioners are managing development, they approve EVERY proposed development.
Rep. Miller stated in the State Port Pilot, "I love this town and will not do anything intentionally to hurt it. If I thought I was hurting it, I would not do it."
One doesn't have to be an Environmentalist or Urban Impact Advisor to see that this will harm Southport. It will further harm our wetlands that are already under siege, the wildlife and natural habitats, which, in my opinion, is why Southport is overrun with a rat infestation. It will impact storm damage and increase flooding in areas that are already plagued by water issues. It is stressing our infrastructure to a breaking point.
How can anyone NOT KNOW that this will hurt Southport and all of the communities here and elsewhere. "Intentionally" or not...Miller is hurting Southport!
Here is what is at stake:
Environmental Impact:
Tree Preservation: The removal of Southport's ability to regulate tree removal, replacement, and preservation could lead to deforestation, negatively impacting local ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and contributing to issues like erosion and loss of biodiversity.
Wetlands and Wildlife: The reduction in regulatory oversight might lead to increased development in sensitive areas, harming wetlands, and natural habitats. This can exacerbate problems like flooding and disrupt local wildlife, potentially leading to problems like increased rat infestations due to habitat loss.
Urban Planning and Development:
Planning and Development Regulations: Stripping Southport of its ability to exercise planning and development regulations could result in unchecked growth. This can lead to urban sprawl, increased traffic congestion, and overburdened public services and infrastructure.
Storm Damage and Flooding: Uncontrolled development can exacerbate stormwater management issues, increasing the risk of flooding, especially in areas already prone to water problems. This is particularly concerning for coastal areas like Southport.
Community and Infrastructure:
Infrastructure Stress: Rapid and unregulated development can strain existing infrastructure, such as roads, water, and sewage systems. This can lead to higher maintenance costs and potentially degrade the quality of life for residents.
Community Impact: The character and charm of communities like Southport, whic h are often key attractions for residents and visitors alike, could be compromised by overdevelopment and lack of local control.
Comments