New Hanover County Planning Board Meeting - May 7, 2026

The New Hanover County Planning Board held a meeting on May 7, 2026, primarily focused on zoning and land use matters. Key procurement-related discussions included a conditional rezoning request for a commercial property with a noncompliant 25-foot sign, where the board debated approving the sign to remain due to a permitting error, with conditions requiring future compliance. Another significant agenda item was a rezoning request to eliminate split zoning on a 7.11-acre parcel, which the board recommended for approval to align with the comprehensive plan. The board also reviewed a preliminary forum for a special use permit for a 130-foot wireless support structure, addressing community concerns about environmental impact, road conditions, and necessity, with advice given to both the applicant and opposition for the upcoming Board of Commissioners hearing. Additionally, a special use permit for an expansion of a youth sports facility was discussed, highlighting the need for coordination with an adjacent church regarding property use and parking. The board took motions and votes on these items, with some motions passing and others failing, and emphasized the advisory nature of their role, with final decisions resting with the Board of Commissioners. No direct contract awards or procurement actions were made, but zoning and land use decisions discussed could influence future development and vendor opportunities in the county.