Beaufort County Natural Resources Committee May 4, 2026 @ 4:00 PM

The Beaufort County Natural Resources Committee met on May 4, 2026, to discuss several community development and zoning matters. A key procurement-related topic was the proposed text amendment to allow schools as a special use in the T2 rural zoning district. The committee reviewed the implications of this amendment, including the requirement that new school sites be within 500 feet of existing sewer infrastructure, consistent with the county's comprehensive plan. The amendment was supported by the school district, which has a potential site at Cherry Point for future development within a 5 to 10-year timeline. The committee unanimously approved the motion to grant the text amendment, following a prior 5-2 approval by the planning commission. Additionally, the committee considered amendments to the historic preservation ordinance to meet certified local government requirements, enabling eligibility for federal grants. These amendments aim to establish a local inventory of historic sites and clarify ordinance language. The committee also approved this ordinance amendment with conditions ensuring consistency with development codes and environmental considerations.